Deals and sales

WHILE some shops are already thinking about Christmas, others are preparing for a different holiday first.

Now that we’re in September, it means that Halloween is just a matter of weeks away and some shops are already making a huge drive.

5

5

Home Bargains is no different as they have the perfect product for your home, and it won’t break the bank either.

You can light up your Halloween with the Scream Iridescent Pumpkin light.

This ‘simple’ and eye-catching decorative light will add a fun yet simultaneously spooky glow to any festivity you have planned.

The retailer advertises the product as being ‘perfect for a fun and festive vibe,’ and it certainly looks that way.

According to snaps listed on the website, the transparent pumpkin shaped light will glow up in different colours.

If you want to dance to Michael Jackson‘s Thriller or host a Hocus Pocus themed party, this decoration will put a spell on any dancefloor that awaits.

This Battery Operated light is self standing and it will set you back just £4.99.

It also has a generous height of 14cm with an approximate width of 16cm.

But Home Bargains is also offering even more bargains with their range of decorations.

If you want a more chilled vibe or plan to host your party outdoors, the retailer is selling a special lantern.

You can get a pumpkin themed light for just £1.49 which the shop advertises as being a ‘bewitching addition to your eerie decorations’.

It has been advertised to provide a flickering glow and spooky charm to any space it is positioned in.

For extra convenience, it is also collapsible so you can easily pack it up and use it again at appropriate times.

With an orange colour and the pumpkin shape and printed design, you can go all out for your haunted house ambience.

Cheap decorations

The retailer has plenty of other pumpkin-themed decorations for the autumn holiday.

You can add the charming and simple Hallow Scream Decorative Pumpkin for that touch of fun.

The 12cm decoration is available in two colours with multiple designs.

You can get your hands on a black design which has the words ‘trick or treat’ emblazoned in a fun orange font on the front.

The orange design is different as it comes with ghost shapes and the word ‘Boo!’ for that a bold and eerie twist.

The dramatic finish contains chilling details like engraved faces and gothic patterns, which will make it a standout piece in any haunted display.

You can get your hands on this decoration for the small price of just £1.99.

5

5

5

A MAJOR pub chain has launched a new loyalty rewards scheme where customers can get freebies including pints and food.

Greene King has relaunched its app and now has a feature where customers can get complimentary drinks and win prizes.

1

These include free pints and vouchers to spend in its 2,700 pubs across the UK.

It’s the first time Greene King has offered loyalty rewards to customers.

The pub chain says customers can now “earn perks, unlock surprises, and access exclusive offers – whether they order at the bar or through the app”.

Among the new features for loyalty customers is a chance to “spin the wheel” to win a prize.

If you spin the virtual wheel on the new Greene King app, you’ll win either a free main meal, drink or dessert.

The free drinks include Peroni, Birra Moretti, Rekorderlig, Aspell, Hazy Day, Coca Cola, Schweppes Lemonade and Madri.

And if you place an order through the app worth at least £1, there’s a chance to win a £50 voucher.

There’s also a “Pub Match” game where every time you spend through the app or scan your membership ID at the till, you are in with the chance of winning more freebies.

The aim of the game is to make it onto the interactive leaderboard of loyal customers, and you have a chance to win up to £50 each month. 

The more you use the app, the higher the chance of winning a prize.

The rewards are redeemable at Greene King Pubs, Belhaven Pubs, Flaming Grill, Chef & Brewer, Farmhouse Inns and Hungry Horse.

Kevin Hydes, group marketing director at Greene King, said: “Pubs are about creating feel-good moments, but we know many people are keeping a close eye on costs.

“That’s why we’re always looking for ways to make visiting our pubs even more rewarding and to give back to our customers.

“With Spin to Win, we’re giving new customers a little something extra – a chance to enjoy a free treat on us, just for joining our loyalty programme.”

How can I get my rewards?

You can download the new Greene King app for free on your app store.

The Spin to Win game will appear on the homepage of your app.

You can also click into the Rewards section to see the rewards you’ve earned.

You can claim the reward either when you pay through the app or at the bar.

On the app just add all your items to the basket and then apply the reward at checkout.

If you order at the bar, you need to show your Membership ID to the bartender.

You can find this at the top right of your Rewards section on the app.

What other features are on the app?

The app will also let you make and manage your bookings, customise orders and pay.

Greene King says it will reduce wait times and let you order quickly.

There will also be the option to repeat orders with one click.

Which other pubs have loyalty schemes?

Greene King is not the only chain which has a loyalty scheme.

Butcombe, which runs more than 120 pubs across the UK, lets customers access exclusive discounts for downloading the app.

These include earning points, where you get five points for spending £1. Once you reach 500 points, £5 will be added to your account to spend.

You can also get 25 per cent off food every Wednesday.

O’Neills also gives members signed to its loyalty programme the chance to collect stamps that can be exchanged for rewards.

WHEN I was doing the research for this SURI review, I came across some alarming stats.

Every year, over four billion toothbrushes end up either in landfill or, more worryingly, in the ocean.

And it takes so long for a single toothbrush to decompose that almost every plastic toothbrush produced since the 1930s is still languishing somewhere on the planet.

If you’re an electric toothbrush user, you might think you’re exempt from this, but — I hate to break it to you — you’re not. In fact, you’re probably worse.

SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, £105

Happily, there’s now an ingeniously designed, decently affordable alternative.

Last week, SURI — a brand favoured by celebs including Gwyneth Paltrow — unveiled its second-generation SURI 2.0 toothbrush, and I was lucky enough to get my hands on one prior to its release date.

I’ve used the original SURI 1.0 toothbrush for years, but for the last month I’ve been getting to grips with the new model.

Pros

• One of the most thoughtfully-designed products I think I’ve ever come across — the attention to detail is astounding
• MUCH more sustainable than alternatives
• Brilliant battery life
• Pretty affordable, depending on which generation you go for
• Perfect for travel
• If you take care of it, it’ll last forever
• Dentist-approved (it’s approved by the dentist I spoke to, at least)

Cons

• The first generation doesn’t have pressure sensing, which can lead to overbrushing
• The second generation is significantly more expensive than the first
• There’s no bells and whistles like app connectivity — but do you really need them?

Rating: 9.5/10

How I tested the SURI toothbrush

I first met the co-founder of SURI, Mark, at a press event almost three years ago.

His knowledge and passion blew me away, and he was kind enough to give me one of the brand’s toothbrushes to try myself.

It’s tackled my gnashers daily ever since — it’s moved house twice with me, and gone on several holidays.

This summer, I was one of several lucky journalists to be sent the brand’s new and upgraded toothbrush, the SURI 2.0.

As the Sun’s reviews manager, it’s my job to hold it to account, ensuring that it delivers on its promises, provides value for money, and handles day-to-day operations.

SURI toothbrush review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

SURI 1.0 Electric Toothbrush, £75

Before I encountered SURI in 2022, I’d happily been using a middle-of-the-road electric toothbrush, without thinking too much about its environmental impact.

If you’d put a gun to my head, I’d probably have told you that electric toothbrushes are better for the environment than manual ones, as they don’t have to be thrown away every couple of months.

I’d have been wrong.

In fact, they’re a nightmare combo of hard-to-mine rare earth metals, carbon-dioxide-heavy manufacturing processes and “planned obsolescence” — they’re only designed to last three to five years or so, so that you routinely come back and buy a new one.

That means that they, too, end up in landfills, where their toxic components can leech into soil and water supplies.

SURI (short for “Sustainable Rituals”), by comparison, has put a LOT of thought into how to end the environmental nightmare caused by billions of humans brushing their teeth.

The handle is made from aluminium, rather than the hard plastic preferred by other brands. This is a very conscious choice — 75% of all aluminium ever created is still in circulation today, because it’s such an easy-to-recycle material.

Other parts of the toothbrush are made from clever materials like cornstarch (the head), castor oil (the bristles), and steel (the internal components).

These are all designed to have as small an environmental impact as possible — when you buy replacement heads, SURI sends you a mail bag so that you can return your used heads to be industrially composted.

Does it deliver?

1

SURI 2.0 Electric Toothbrush, £105

So we’ve established that SURI is more sustainable than its competitors — but does it make a better toothbrush?

When I’ve spoken to the company’s co-founder, Mark, he has emphasised the company’s decision not to include the app-powered, Bluetooth-compatible bells and whistles you get in other toothbrushes.

After all, what percentage of people really want to link their toothbrush to an app? Most people I’ve encountered want to get the chore over and done with so they can go to bed.

Instead, the SURI is pretty utilitarian — it includes all the things that you’d need in a modern toothbrush, without adding any unnecessary marketing fluff.

It’s a sonic toothbrush, which is a type of electric toothbrush — they’re defined by their very, very quick vibration, which produces their signature “sonic” humming sound.

The SURI vibrates 33,000 times per minute, which actually puts it at the gentler end of the spectrum — and unlike some competitors, it doesn’t have multiple power settings.

Personally, day-to-day, I’m fine with that — I like a gentler clean, and relatively low vibrations work with the softer castor oil bristles to create a sensation that feels much kinder to my gums than other brushes I’ve used.

However, it would be nice to have a pedal-to-the-metal setting for those days when I’ve had a few glasses of red wine, or accidentally made my way through a large bag of Skittles while watching telly.

The thing about the OG SURI brush that concerned some dentists was its lack of pressure sensor, a feature that notifies you if you’re brushing too hard.

Thankfully, the new SURI 2.0 has added that feature.

There are a host of other features that make this brush extremely practical.

The first that comes to mind is the UV-C Travel Case, which comes as standard with the SURI 2.0 but is an added cost for the 1.0.

As well as protecting your toothbrush from whatever else you throw in your suitcase with it, it comes with a UV light that removes 99.9% of the bacteria on your bristles.

There’s also the month-long battery life — my partner’s electric toothbrush only lasts for a week, if she’s lucky.

Last, but certainly not least, is a tiny thing that I love — each SURI brush comes with a magnetic mount, which you can put on your bathroom mirror or wall.

That might sound pointless, but it stops your toothbrush from amassing that gross toothpaste residue at the bottom, which always makes me feel slightly nauseous.

How much is the SURI toothbrush?

The new SURI 2.0 costs £105.

That’s quite a steep increase from the original brush, which retails for just £75.

However, the 2.0 comes with a travel case as standard, which wasn’t the case for the original brush — if you wanted one, you’d have to fork out another £25.

While it’s not exactly a bargain in a world where you can pick up an electric toothbrush for £40 or £50 on Amazon, SURI markets its device as “the last toothbrush you’ll ever buy” — the toothbrush is designed to be repaired, and SURI will replace the battery for a “reasonable” fee.

The toothbrush head needs to be replaced every couple of months; you can buy a pack of three heads for £14.99, or set up a subscription to have two heads delivered every six months for £8.98 each time.

Where to buy the SURI toothbrush

The best place to get the SURI is probably the brand’s own website, where you can find both generations of the toothbrush as well as all the accessories you might want, including the travel case, chargers, magnetic mounts and toothpaste.

However, it’s also available at selected retailers, including Boots.

SURI alternatives

In terms of its environmental attributes, SURI is in a class of its own.

A few companies are attempting to make Oral care more environmental — for example, Georganics makes a sonic toothbrush with a “Zero to Landfill” scheme, through which the brand promises to responsibly dispose of your toothbrush.

However, it doesn’t have the same stylish mass appeal — it feels a bit granola and tree-hugging than SURI’s chic, Gwyneth Paltrow-friendly version of sustainability.

Plus, SURI puts a bigger emphasis on ensuring that its toothbrushes are made from environmentally friendly materials.

And, of course, if you’re not bothered about eco-credentials, there are tons of options available from normal high-street brands.

SHOPPERS are running to Dunelm for a gadget that heats up a room without the need for central heating.

Bargain hunters keen to keep bills in check this winter are snapping up the plug-in PTC heater, £18, from the retailer.

1

This gadget delivers through an efficient ceramic heating element.

The LED display and digital thermostat provide precise control over the temperature, and you can set the timer and choose from two fan speed settings.

Best of all it only costs 13p hour to run if you are on an average electricity tariff, though the exact amount depends on your individual rate.

The reviews for the gadget are glowing.

One user said: “Good product, gives some decent heat out. Actually bought two of them. Well worth it.”

Another added: “Fabulous little heater, really pleased with this. Heats up my kitchen in no time.”

One user described the tool as “small and mighty”. The added: “Does the job for a small kitchen without any other heating source.”

It comes after it was confirmed the energy price cap would rise by 2% in October costing the average household more to heat their home.

There are plenty of other ways to help keep bills down and stay warm using gadgets that don’t cost too much to run.

For example, an electric throw can cost just 4p an hour – calculated using the average electricity unit rate in the UK for the period of 1 October to 31 December 2025 is 26.35 pence per kilowatt-hour.

Washing the blankets are usually easy too, as it is both machine washable and tumble dryer safe. 

You can buy these blankets for around £30 and they’re perfect for when you’re on the sofa watching TV and don’t need to warm up the entire home.

Or Amazon is selling a product for just 99p to help families hold off from putting the heating on.

The teeppo draft excluder for doors and windows is a practical addition ahead of the colder months.

The self-adhesive rubber foam offers a budget solution for keeping your home warm this winter.

It also helps to reduce dust, pests, noise, and heat in the summer.

What energy bill help is available?

There’s a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you’re struggling to get by.

If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.

This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.

If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.

Several energy firms have schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.

But eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.

For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.

British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.

You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.

EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.

Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).

The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill.

Some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.

Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.

JOIN Sun Club for £1.99 a month today and get two tickets to the world-famous London attraction Madame Tussauds.

There’s thousands of tickets on us, for free – plus you can unlock incredible deals and freebies throughout the year, including tickets to Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures and Cadbury’s World.

3

3

3

Sun Club offers readers access to more of our award-winning articles from showbiz exclusives, real-life stories, and unrivalled investigations.

Along with being able to unlock extra articles and unlimited access to the Sun website and app, there are big perks including competitions and offers.

Our latest fantastic offer is your opportunity to bag two free tickets to Madame Tussauds.

To book your Madame Tussauds London  tickets join Sun Club now for just £1.99 a month for your first year. Following this, its £4.99 a month.

Or. join for £12 for an annual subscription for the first 12 months, then £49.99 a year thereafter.

Once free Madame Tussauds tickets run out, we have 34,000 tickets available from £19.

Usually, an adult ticket costs £39 on the door, or £29 if you book online, so that’s a fantastic saving.

There’s only a select amount of tickets for free and at a discounted price – once they’re gone, they’re gone, so join now to get a trip the family will love on us.

Madame Tussauds is a fun, interactive attraction for all ages.

It’s a great opportunity to get a selfie with the wax replicas of all your favourite stars – including The Beatles, Posh and Becks, Harry Styles and Dua Lipa.

There’s eight zones and over 150 lifelike figures across three floors of fun – so there’ll be stars for everyone to meet and enjoy.

You’re sure to have a truly memorable experience – so here’s how to claim.

How to claim the tickets

Head to the ‘Offers Hub,’ select the ‘Madame Tussauds London’ tile and click ‘Book’ from 11.00am on Wednesday, September 10. Remember to set an alarm!

Your unique booking code will appear, copy your unique booking code and click the book button again, this will direct you to the Sun Superdays Madame Tussauds London website where you can choose your tickets.

You will receive your tickets via email.

You must book your tickets by midnight on Wednesday, October 8.

18+ UK only (exc. IoM & CI). Online access required. Sun Savers multiple code collect 06/09/25 – 18/09/25. Digital Newspaper and Sun Club subscribers apply from 10/09/25. Redeem by 08/10/25. Non-transferable & non refundable. Subject to availability, daily allocation limits apply (40,000 total tickets available, incl. 6,000 free tickets, remaining tickets from £19-£22 per ticket). Allocation dates subject to change without notice until 15/03/2026. Full T&Cs apply, see Sun Club website.

‘I’ve saved £350 on family days out with Sun Club’

Catherine Lofthouse has saved a massive £350 on days out and holidays thanks to Sun Club deals.

She signed up in February and has claimed free theme park tickets, booked a bargain caravan break and bagged a pair of darts tickets.

She also booked a brilliant break in Norfolk for a May weekend for just £130 for six people. The same caravan booked direct from the holiday park would have cost her £200.

She reckons she’s on track to save £1,000 in her first year of being a Sun Club reader.

Catherine said: “There are huge savings to be had on days out and holidays for Sun Club members.

“We’ve already had a great day out at Alton Towers Resort on a school inset day, which would have cost £58 for two people if I’d booked online in advance instead of using my free tickets.

“I also booked Chessington World of Adventures and Thorpe Park during the summer holidays, which both would have been more than £65 for two tickets without the Sun Club offer.

“I”m certainly maxing out my Sun Club membership. Make sure you’re doing the same!”

Other fantastic Sun Club offers

There’s other fantastic Sun Club offers waiting for members in our Offers Hub.

Fancy a getaway? You can take the family away from just £9.50.

There’s over 250 holiday parks in the UK and Europe to choose from.

For those with a sweet tooth, you can get two tickets to Cadbruy World – we have thousands of tickets on us, and over 26,000 from just a tenner.

Journey through an assortment of interactive zones as you discover the history, the magic and the making of Cadbury confectionery – here’s how to book yours.

Grab your partner by the hand and win a £7,000 road-trip for two, thanks to Travel Texas.

Enter our competition by Thursday, September 18 for the chance to win a seven night action-packed road trip – yeehaw!

SHOPPERS are rushing to buy a nifty gadget that costs just 1p to run – and they say it will stop them having to turn the heating on this winter.

The handy product will help keep you warm at home as the colder months approach, and it doesn’t cost a fortune.

1

Amazon is selling the neck and shoulder heatpad for £39.99.

It normally retails at £59.99 – representing a saving of 30%.

The Dreamland heatpad is designed to be worn around the neck and can keep your shoulders feeling toasty in winter.

It has also been praised by buyers for easing symptoms associated with arthritis and injuries.

Others have described it as “excellent”.

One satisfied customer hailed it as “lovely” as it stays warm for hours and doesn’t cost anything extra to reheat.

Easy to use

The product’s manufacturer said it delivers “precise temperature control for a full three-hour treatment”.

It added: “It is so easy to use, and has a choice of five continuous use temperate setting, with a three-hour auto shut off timer.

“It costs from as little as 1p to run per treatment for three hours.” 

The cover is machine washable and can be easily stored away when the weather warms back up.

It’s even landed dozens of five-star reviews online.

One buyer said: “Bought for my arthritic mother. She loves it and it helps her a lot.”

Another described it as a “lovely item”.

A third person wrote: “Excellent for a stiff neck, or trapped nerve.”

More money-saving gadgets

Savvy shoppers are always quick to share tips and tricks to keep warm for cheap this winter.

Some recently shared Lidl was selling £18 gadgets that save them turning the heating on.

One woman also recently shared her new hack – which is said to be like “hugging a sheep”.

Dunelm shoppers have also recently been rushing to buy a “life-saver” winter gadget.

The discounter is selling the device that costs just 1p an hour to run.

Aldi also recently shared one of its winter gadgets that costs just 6p to run.

Don’t forget about your hands …

Here are some handy tips to ease the effects of cold weather on your hands …

A pair of mitts can really help your hands through the winter months.

Wear gloves outside so that the cold air doesn’t zap the moisture out of your skin.

For washing up, protect your hands with rubber gloves. Apply hand cream before putting on the gloves and the warm water will help the cream soothe your hands.

Dry, brittle and split nails are a real pain in winter, when our hands are craving moisture. The answer may lie in your food cupboard.

Rubbing olive oil into your nails and cuticles each day can strengthen and soothe them, reducing the risk of splits.

Nursem is a handcare brand started by former children’s intensive care nurse Antonia Philp, whose hands were left cracked and sore from constant handwashing.

Or, to soothe winter hands, try this. Blitz 100g oats in a food mixer until it becomes a powder.

Add to a bowl of warm water with 50ml of olive oil. Soak hands for 10 minutes before drying and apply hand cream.

A LITTLE-known resort with white sands, a Unesco-listed old town and beer for less than £2 tops a new listing of most affordable autumn beach breaks in Europe this year.

Nessebar, on a peninsula in Bulgaria, is No1 in budget airline easyJet’s Cheap Beach Index, thanks to its affordable hospitality and dependable deals on flights and hotels.

7

The research analysed areas within easy reach of airports that offer affordable direct routes from the UK, and the costs of a typical holiday “basket” of essentials including beer, ice cream and family meals out.

The Budva Riviera in Montenegro came second, followed by Spain’s Costa de Almeria then Costa Dorada.

Next came Croatian towns Nin and Medulin.

Lisa Minot describes what makes these autumn breaks winners, and offers some great deals . . . 

NESSEBAR, BULGARIA

THIS little gem offers the best of both worlds with golden sands on South Beach and plenty of charm in the Old Town with its Roman and Ottoman architecture, 19th-century wooden houses and cobbled streets.

It’s not all culture, though – the resort has plenty to keep visitors happy with lots of bars and restaurants and a lively nightlife.

7

The report found beers would cost on average £1.60, while a three-course meal will set you back around £22 for a couple.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Festa Panorama, Nessebar is from £477pp including flights from Manchester departing on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

BUDVA RIVIERA, MONTENEGRO

LOCATED on Montenegro’s gorgeous Adriatic Coast, the Budva Riviera has more than 35km of stunning coastline.

There are several beaches, from the lively, expansive Jaz and Slovenska Plaza to the picturesque coves of Mogren.

7

At its heart is the charming medieval Old Town (Stari Grad) with its Venetian walls and historic churches.

The index found beers will set you back just £1.90, a meal for two is £30 and ice creams a bargain £1.50.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Eurostars Queen of Montenegro is from £452pp, from Gatwick on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DE ALMERIA, SPAIN

FOR a more authentic Spanish experience, distinct from the more crowded Costas, the Costa de Almeria is Europe’s only desert landscape, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Highlight is the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, a protected area with volcanic geology, hidden coves like Monsul and vast, unspoiled beaches for you to set aside the pressures of life.

7

Roquetas de Mar is a perfect beachfront town with lots of shops, bars and restaurants close by.

The report found beers will cost just £3 and a meal for two £36.

GO: Seven nights’ half-board at the Best Roquetas Hotel, Costa de Almeria is from £372pp including flights from Southend on September 27, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

COSTA DORADA, SPAIN

ALWAYS among the best value of the Costas, this area is known as the Golden Coast – perfect for families with its long, gently shelving golden sand beaches.

Salou has a buzzing nightlife scene and direct access to the ever popular PortAventura World theme park.

7

Head to Cambrils for great seafood restaurants while Tarragona has a magnificent Roman amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The index found beers would cost £2.55 and a meal for a couple around £36.

GO: Seven nights’ R/O at the 3H Hotel Eurosalou is from £306pp including easyJet flights from Southend on September 30, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See travelsupermarket.com.

MEDULIN, CROATIA

THIS family-friendly resort on Croatia’s Istrian Coast stands out with its kilometre-long sandy Bijeca beach with shallow waters.

The sheltered bay is also ideal for watersports such as paddle boarding.

7

For nature lovers, the rugged Cape Kamenjak reserve has stunning cliffs, secluded coves and walking trails.

The nearby city of Pula with its historic Roman remains, is a short bus ride away.

The report found beers would cost around £3.10 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Park Plaza Belvedere Medulin is from £580pp including easyJet flights from Luton, 23kg luggage and transfers.

See love holidays.com.

NIN, CROATIA

THE ancient Croatian town is on an islet within a lagoon on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.

Known as the birthplace of Croatian kings, its historic centre is linked to the mainland by two 16th-century stone bridges.

7

Nin is famous for beautiful sandy lagoons, among them Queen’s Beach, a 3km stretch of sand in a shallow, warm bay.

Nearby, you can experience the tradition of applying therapeutic mud, renowned for its healing properties.

The index found beers were £3.20 and a meal for two £40.

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering in an apartment is from £473 in total, based on four sharing, from Sep 23 – novasol.co.uk.

Fly EasyJet from Gatwick to Zadar from £136pp return.

See easyjet.com.

CELEBRATIONS have made a huge change to tubs ahead of Christmas – and customers will not be happy.

Chocolate maker Mars has once again slashed the size of its iconic red tub from 550g to 500g – equal to a reduction of around five sweets.

1

The festive staple is being rolled out of supermarkets ahead of the big day.

Asda is selling the shrunken chocolates for £5.64, with Morrisons and Sainsbury’s charging £7.

The UK’s biggest supermarket is still selling off the larger 550g tubs for £7 or £4.50 on Clubcard price.

It marks the second year in a row the confectionery giant has slimmed down the festive treat.

Last Christmas, the tubs featuring miniature pieces of Twix, Milkyway and Bounty, were reduced in size from 600g to 550g.

The Sun has approached Mars for comment.

At the time, Mars blamed the rising costs of raw materials and operations.

Global cocoa prices are still under pressure due to poor harvests caused by adverse weather in West Africa.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) reported a 43% jump in cocoa prices since 2022.

And Mars is not the only chocolate maker which is slimming down its chocolate tubs.

Quality Street maker Nestle has slashed the size of the purple tubs from 600g to 550g.

The new purple tubs have approximately 57 chocolates – down from 63.

A Nestlé spokesperson cited the cost of manufacturing, “ingredients and transport” for the cut.

Deal expert Tom Church previously told The Sun that the best way to beat size reductions was to look for cut-price deals, such as multi-buy offers in the supermarkets or Nectar and Clubcard prices.

Shrinking chocolate

All major manufacturers are shrinking the size of their treats to help combat rising material costs.

Last month it was discovered that Cadbury cut the size of multipacks of its Brunch bars from five to four.

Instead, a four-bar pack is now on shelves for the same average price of £1.50.

It means the bars – a staple of school lunchboxes – are, in effect, 20 per cent worse value.

Cadbury also reduced packs of Freddos from five to four and Cadbury Dairy Milk multipacks were cut from nine bars to seven.

More recently, the brand slashed the size of it’s Dairy Milk Little Bars multipacks by a third.

How to save money on chocolate

We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.

Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.

Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.

They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.

Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.

So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.

A MAJOR supermarket has slashed the cost of hundreds of grocery staples in a bid to help shoppers save money.

Morrisons has reduced the prices of 650 everyday items, with savings averaging 18%.

1

Essentials such as chicken breast fillets, fresh vegetables, olive oil, laundry pods, and enchilada kits are all included in the price cuts.

These reductions take effect today, both in-store and online, and will remain in place for at least four to eight weeks.

The supermarket says the move is aimed at helping households manage rising costs, especially with Christmas just around the corner.

Family meal staples such as rice, pasta, and chicken have been discounted, alongside basics like toilet rolls, kitchen rolls, and mayonnaise.

Seasonal items such as soups and cold and flu tablets are also included in the reductions.

Alex Paver, pricing and customer director at Morrisons, said: “At Morrisons we believe great quality should be affordable for everyone, and we know that the cost of everyday products really matter to our customers right now.

“That’s why we’re cutting the prices of over 650 items, from fresh favourites to cupboard staples, so our customers can trust they’re getting real value every time they shop with us.

“These price cuts mean customers can spend less on the essentials and still enjoy the great quality Morrisons is known for.”

In addition to the price reductions, Morrisons has also launched a number of weekly deals.

These include discounts on popular items like wine, coffee, and tea.

What else is happening at Morrisons?

Morrisons slashed over 3,600 jobs and closed 17 stores as part of a major shake-up to its operations.

The supermarket’s workforce dropped from 104,819 to 101,144 in the year leading up to October 27, 2024.

Thousands of jobs were axed across Morrisons’ stores, head office, as well as its manufacturing and distribution operations.

The latest job losses come after the Morrisons shut 17 of its stores around the UK earlier this year, with the final store in Haxby, North Yorkshire, closing on May 14.

The 16 other stores were all axed in April.

As part of a cost-cutting overhaul, the grocer also shut more than 50 of its in-store cafés, 35 meat and fish counters, and 18 Market Kitchen food courts earlier this year.

It cited the need to cut costs amid rising financial pressure.

It is instead investing in tech, rolling out new “Tally” robots to help customers find items on the shelves and improve stock management.

However, the business has returned to profit for the first time since 2021, when the chain was bought by US private equity investor Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R).

Morrisons posted a pre-tax profit of £2.1billion for the year ending October 27 2024, reversing losses of £919million in 2023 and £1.3billion in 2022, according to new filings on Companies House.

WITH the kids back in school and life just that bit calmer, could it be time for an indulgent parent pamper? On a budget, of course.

While a day spent lounging by the pool sipping a glass of prosecco might sound pricey, there’s some brilliant deals out there if you know where to look – with prices starting at just £9.50 and perks including two-course meals and extra treatments.

9

9

9

This is the season for spa deals with some gorgeous retreats offering packages with big discounts for a post-summer chill. 

If you have a particular spa in mind, it’s always worth signing up to the newsletters of the spa you’d like to visit; you’ll get alerts about last minute deals, special offers, discounts and cheap off-peak slots. 

Offer websites such as Groupon often have cheap spa day deals, but check out the reviews first, as it can be a mixed bag.

While the kids are at school, you can also book in for a light afternoon slot or an evening chill – which gives you access to the facilities for a fraction of the price.

This means that from less than £10 per person a day, you can book yourself a bargain and unwind in some stunning spa resorts across the UK. 

Choose from a grand stately home with an outdoor pool, a cool Hackney hideaway or a truly tranquil spot in the Kent countryside, loved by celebrities like Kylie Minogue and Fern McCann.

This is our pick of the best UK spa days that you can book now for under £85 per person (prices correct at time of publishing):

Eden Spa at Down Hall in Essex for £20

This elegant stately home in Essex is set over a 110 acre estate and is a famous wedding venue as well as having two beautiful spas.

The Wet Spa is tucked away in the garden of the house and has a private, fenced area with relaxation beds, positioned under a Grand Fir tree. 

9

You don’t need to be an overnight guest to book into the spa, which has a hydrotherapy pool, steam room and sauna.

Celebrities like Fern McCann and Vicky Pattison have also been spotted enjoying the facilities.

Two hours access to the Wet Spa on Monday to Thursday costs £30, or you can take advantage of a one-hour Twilight session at 6.15pm each night for only £20.

Book it: downhall.co.uk

The Netherwood Hotel in The Lake District for £15

Cheap spa deals in the Lake District are not easy to come by, which makes this even more of a bargain.

The boutique spa has a sleek thermal suite with hot and cold therapies and plunge pools, a salt room, ice fountain shower and a steam room with the uplifting scents of lemongrass, citrus, and cinnamon.

You can book into the day spa and use the thermal suite for 60 minutes for only £15 or 90 minutes for £20. Ideal if you’ve been out in the lakes boating, kayaking or hiking.

Book it: netherwood-hotel.co.uk

9

Hackney Wick Community Sauna in London for £9.50

This simple spa is a not-for-profit Community Sauna,
is to make sauna and cold plunge affordable and accessible to everyone in London, even those on a lower income.

Set in a charming back garden in East London’s Hackney Wick, this micro spa feels like a hidden oasis.

There are six wood-fired saunas and a choice of trendy ice plunge pools inside old whisky barrels.

It’s fantastic value, with 90 minute sessions starting at only £12 off-peak, or if you’re an early riser, you can go to a one-hour morning drop-in for just £9.50.

Groups can also hire the 22-person sauna for the exclusive use, so why not get all the school mums together for a luxury afternoon and still have money left for a cheeky vino before school pick up?.

Book it: community-sauna.co.uk

Ocean Spa at Butlin’s, Bognor Regis for £25

If you didn’t already know, family-favourite Butlin’s at Bognor Regis has its own spa and – true to the brand – it’s great value too.

The catch here is that you already need access to the resort as an overnight guest or as a day guest (day passes start at £19 for adults and £1 for kids on selected days).

But, this boutique spa is fantastic for parents who have the opportunity to slip away for a few hours and have a much-needed pamper. Time to make the case to bring granny and grandad along with you?

A two-hour Spa Experience here starts at £25 per person and includes a Hydrospa, outdoor hot tub, sauna, relaxation pods, a crystal steam room and an outside sun terrace. You can also book individual treatments, but they are booked separately.

If you are visiting with teens, children aged 13+ -17 year olds are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. Ideal for older kids to have some quality time with mum or dad, while siblings go wild in the playground.

Book it: butlins.com

9

9

Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa, Leeds for £39 with a two-course lunch

Deal club Travelzoo often have fantastic spa deals, so if you want to make a lovely spa visit a regular trip, it could be worth signing up to the club (membership is £30 for the year and you will have access to holiday, entertainment and transport deals too). 

Right now, Travelzoo Members can save 38% at six Daniel Thwaites spas across the country.

The Simple Ritual spa package offer includes three hours of spa access and a two-course lunch to recharge. Members pay just £39 per person. It’s £63 for regular guests.

As well as the stunning Leeds location, you can access the deal at five other locations across the country, including Aztec Hotel & Spa, Bristol, Cottons Hotel & Spa, Cheshire, Kettering Park, Northamptonshire, the North Lakes Hotel & Spa, Penrith and Solent Hotel & Spa, Fareham.

Book it: travelzoo.com

Crutherland House Spa in East Kilbride, Scotland with a glass of prosecco, £25

Crutherland House & Spa is a beautiful country house in East Kilbride, surrounded by peaceful gardens. The tranquil setting is a perfect antidote to the busy city of Glasgow, which is close by. 

The spa offers a full day experience, but if time and money are tight, book into the twilight spa experience in the evening for just £25 per person. 

This deal is excellent value and includes a glass of prosecco on arrival, ideal for mums who don’t have masses of spare time but do need a little R&R after the school holidays.

The spa has a huge pool with relaxation loungers, a hot tub, sauna and steam room. Plus, those visiting during Twilight sessions also get 20% of individual treatments (these are priced separately).

Also available at other Macdonald Properties across Scotland and also at Boatley Park in Hampshire. Book it: Crutherland House

Book it: Crutherland House

Bannatyne Health Clubs, £34.50 with a 20-minute treatment

Bannatyne Health Clubs are offering a September Spa Saver that is aimed at frazzled parents who have finally packed the kids back to school. 

Until the end of October, you can book packages that involve a full day use of the club facilities, including the gym and fitness classes, swimming pools, jacuzzi baths, sauna and steam room, plus relaxation rooms in some locations. 

Plus, you get a 20-minute treatment as part of the deal. Choose from a 20-minute Swedish Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage or a Tailored Facial Express. 

The Spa Saver (£34.50) is on until the 30th September and the Refresh Express Spa Day is an on-going offer for £39.50.

Book it: bannatyne.co.uk

9

9

Porchester Spa in London for £30

This one has been an internet hit, and for good reason.

After an £800,000 refurbishment, London’s oldest Spa, The Porchester Spa, has reopened in an iconic Grade 2* listed building, beautifully returned to its 1920s splendour.

Despite being in the centre of London, the spa offers affordable prices and excellent package deals from £30 per person. 

Inside the spa, visitors you can get a look at the traditional baths and original art-deco features. The spa has two steam rooms, Turkish baths (Tepidarium, Caldarium and Laconium), a sauna, a plunge pool and relaxation lounge. 

You can also book in for a range of spa treatments here too, but these are priced separately here

If you are staying all day, there is a Café on site providing hot and cold beverages, sandwiches and snacks.

Top tip: Remember to bring 20p coins to use the lockers.

Book it: everyonespa.com

The Spa at Potters, Five Lakes Hertfordshire, £75 for the whole day with a 50-minute treatment and afternoon tea.

If you have a whole day to devote to some ‘me time’, the Blossom Spa Day deal with luxury holiday park, Potters, is worthy of a mention. 

You can book a whole day here, using facilities such as an expansive pool and hot tub, outdoor sun terrace, relaxation rooms, sauna and steam chambers. 

Even better, this deal includes a 50-minute luxury facial and afternoon tea, which is excellent value for money. 

Set in a serene location, surrounded by rolling hills, this is the ideal way to spend the afternoon with friends or as a peaceful solo adventure. 

Book it: thespafivelakes.com

Champneys Springs in Leicestershire for £59 with a 20-minute treatment and a glass of bubbly

Luxury spa chain Champneys are also running a choice of spa-tember deals.

The beautiful resorts, which are located in country houses and stately homes around the UK, are loved by celebrities, including Kylie Minogue, Naomi Campbell and even Brad Pitt!

Full spa days here, which have stunning indoor and outdoor pools, zen-like relaxation rooms, sauna, jacuzzi, hydropools, cold plunge pools and ice fountains, start from £120 per person. 

However, slip in for a bargain session but booking a Twilight Spa Evening from £59 per person, with a complimentary 20-minute treatment.

As part of the deal, you also get a welcome glass of bubbly, plus flips flops and a tote bag to take home with you. 

Available at most Champney’s locations, including Eastwell Manor in Kent and Forest Mere in Hampshire, but prices do vary depending on the individual spa. 

Book it: champneys.com

SHOPPERS are going wild after spotting a Primark outfit being crowned as the ‘easiest’ Halloween costume yet.

The outfit has been hailed “perfect” for fans of a hit TV show.

2

2

The budget retailer has been praised for stocking a bright red tracksuit that fans say is a dead ringer for Sue Sylvester, the fierce cheerleading coach from Glee.

TikToker @Malikiss1 filmed the outfit in-store and captioned it: “Run to Primark for the easiest Sue Sylvester Halloween costume.”

The clip quickly racked up comments, with shoppers writing: “I love this,” “I need this,” and “Omg they have them in the kids section too so can match with the kiddos.”

Another added: “I bought it just for this!”, proving the tracksuit is already flying off shelves as a fancy dress hack.

Halloween deals

And with Halloween only a month away, bargain hunters are also snapping up spooky deals from other high street favourites.

Poundland has slashed prices in a massive clearance sale ahead of its website shutting down later this month.

Shoppers can bag Halloween decorations from as little as 50p, including pumpkin ornaments, ghost plates and ceramic mugs.

Costumes, masks and multipacks of sweets have also been reduced, making it easy to stock up before trick-or-treat season.

It is not just Halloween stock either, Christmas baubles, stockings and jumpers have also been reduced to clear, with prices starting at just £1.

Poundland’s website will switch to browsing-only from September 16, with the store’s loyalty scheme also being scrapped.

Meanwhile, Home Bargains has launched a new “spooky disco” collection with a quirky pink twist.

Among the stand-out items is a £4.99 pumpkin disco dome and a £1.79 cowboy ghost ornament called Gloria.

Pink mason jars and mugs are also on sale, alongside matching disco tea towels and table runners to complete the look.

With Primark’s tracksuit hack, Poundland’s clearance bargains and Home Bargains’ disco-inspired range, shoppers are spoiled for choice when it comes to cheap and cheerful Halloween prep this year.

Top tips on getting dressed up for Halloween

By Abby McHale, Fabulous’ Deputy Fashion Editor

Halloween is the perfect opportunity to get dressed up, take on a different persona and have fun with your look.

These days, celebrities provide the perfect inspiration for costumes, however, they also have a team of stylists, makeup artists and endless bounds of cash at their disposal. 

So how do you make an outfit like theirs work for you? 

A lot of stars make their outfits look sexy and your lingerie drawer is the perfect starting point. 

You can use anything from a bra, fishnet tights, stockings and suspenders to add to your look, then depending on the look you’re going for add makeup according.

I.e wearing a black bodice and tights, add some red lipstick and dark eyes for a vampy look.

The rest of your wardrobe can be more inspiring than you think too – for example a plain black can be a perfect base for your costume. 

If you are however happy to spend a bit of money on your Halloween costume but are running out of time then Amazon is your go too, there are so many costumes to choose from with many sitting under its Prime next day delivery option. 

Or if you’re wanting to see what the in store shops have to offer, look to the supermarkets and budget stores such as B&M, Poundland and Primark which are still full of accessories and clothing to fulfil your Halloween wishes. 

Other Halloween ideas

Shoppers have been left running to their local Home Bargains to snap up their brand-new Disney Halloween buy that keeps selling out.

In honour of Halloween, Mickey and Minnie Mouse have been turned into adorable, fluffy orange pumpkins.

And an Ibiza Final Boss costume is set to be Halloween’s big trend as online stores cash in on demand.

While, shoppers cried “Love every single pair” as Sainsbury’s launched their “gorgeous” range of autumn PJs

Finally, last year, a Halloween-daft mum left people stumped after creating incredible optical illusion costumes for her son – with people asking “what one is the kid?”.

When it gets to the colder, wetter months, and the garden’s being used less often, it’s handy to have somewhere to store all your tools.

The 3’6 x 2′ Forest Pent Midi Wooden Garden Storage has been reduced from £219.99 to £149.99 – but an extra discount takes another £7.49 off.

1

3’6 x 2′ Forest Pent Midi Wooden Garden Storage
£142.49 (was £219.99)

In the autumn, wet and windy weather is more common, and it makes sense to want to keep everything safely stashed away indoors in preparation.

A garden shed is an easy solution for organising your outdoor space – but the useful addition doesn’t have to cost you a fortune.

Buy Sheds Direct has become a popular retailer to choose from a huge range of garden storage options, and there’s currently a sale on.

The Forest Pent Midi Wooden Garden Storage now costs £142.49 as there’s an extra 5% off automatically applied when you check out, and it’s a great option if you’re on a budget.

With 600L capacity, it’s compact but worth investing in if you don’t have a huge garden and need a shed that doesn’t take up too much space.

You could use it to keep gardening tools tucked away from rain to avoid weathering and rusting, but it could also fit a small lawnmower depending on size.

Made from natural timber, the shed would easily blend in with its outdoor surroundings, but it’s also pressure treated to protect it from damage, with a 15 year anti-rot guarantee.

Double doors make it easy to fill and access your essentials, so you can quickly reach what you need without having to sift through everything.

Keeping your house clean is also a benefit, as none of your dirty tools are being taken inside.

There’s no need to worry about security either, because the shed is built with a clasp for you to add your own padlock, so you lock everything away out of sight.

It’s also sensible to opt for a shed with a pent roof, because it allows water and snow to run-off easily, rather than sitting on top.

3’6 x 2′ Forest Pent Midi Wooden Garden Storage
£142.49 (was £219.99)

If your garden equipment is in need of an upgrade, The Sun Shopping’s best cordless lawn mowers range from budget to more premium options – and we’ve tested them all.

The best chainsaws are worth a look too, whether you’re investing in one to tackle hedges or overgrown weeds.

SUMMER is fully upon us, bringing with it holidays abroad, trips to the beach, dips in the pool – and, of course, bare legs.

I’ve grappled with various razors, at-home waxing kits and painful trips to the salon for years, which only leave me dreading the next time my leg hair is ripped from the root, before it grows back and I have to endure it all over again.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

That was until I decided to take the plunge, listen to my mates, and join the at-home IPL brigade.

Instead of spending hundreds (thousands in the long run) on salon hair removal, I opted to try an at-home hair removal solution that would last — a Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses a combination of targeted light and heat that is absorbed by the melanin found in hair follicles, essentially disabling and damaging them, which, in turn, stops the hair from growing back.

The highly rated Keskine handset boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating from almost 4,000 reviews, and one of its most notable features is the built-in ice-cooling technology, setting it apart from competitors.

This promises to soothe the skin and alleviate the biggest complaint people have about hair removal: pain.

So, I put the Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset to the test for six weeks to see what results I could achieve while the sun is still shining.

Pros

• Financially worth it in the long run 
• Portable
• Effective
• Works on a range of hair types and skin tones 
• Built-in cooling technology

Cons

• It can feel like a big cash injection
• Have to remain consistent with your sessions
• Slightly noisy (although worth it for the cooling option)

Rating: 8/10

How I tested the Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

Keskine promises visible results within one to four weeks, with optimal results appearing between six and twelve weeks.

I decided to track the effects on my hair over six weeks, assessing every week..

As part of the Sun Shopping team, I’ve tested a range of beauty tech, including the best LED face masks, the best Dyson dupes, and more, so I’m well-versed in what makes a product worth your pennies, even if it’s at the higher end of the price spectrum.

I used the product the recommended number of times: up to three times a week for the first month and then twice a week for weeks four to six.

For some context, I have naturally fair and soft hair on my head, but my leg and armpit hair is thick and stubborn after years of shaving abuse, so my main goal was to see if the IPL would thin the hairs out before removing them completely.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

I won’t lie to you, I often find myself sceptical about any at-home treatment that imitates salon visits, such as laser hair removal or at-home LED facial treatments.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

However, always open to having my opinion changed, I unboxed the Keskine to discover a very easy-to-use handheld IPL, which came with a razor and a pair of protective sunglasses.

The device itself is extremely lightweight and compact, with a lovely white and rose gold colour scheme.

Its small size means you can take it on holiday with you, ensuring you never have to miss a session.

Setting it up proved to be an easy task. All you need to do is clean your chosen treatment area and shave off any hair using the razor provided, before patting the area completely dry.

Once you’ve connected the power cord to the adapter and plugged it into a power outlet, all you need to do is turn it on and choose one of the five built-in smart modes.

Don’t be alarmed by the loud whirring noise that comes from the device; that’s just an indication that the cooling capabilities are working.

You can select which part of your body you will be targeting with the IPL — face, armpit, body, bikini or beauty.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

Although it’ll make you look like a member of the Blues Brothers every time you use it, you will need to wear the protective sunglasses provided to shield your eyes from the effects of the light.

Does it deliver?

My hair has definitely become much finer and completely disappeared in places since I started using the Keskine.

When speaking to friends who go for professional laser removal treatments in a salon, our results were very similar at the four-week and six-week mark.

I saw most results at six weeks, but noticed that even at the four-week mark, after using the device appropriately and consistently, there were areas where the hair had disappeared, and surrounding areas were extremely wispy where it once was coarse.

I will say that this product is best suited if you already have body hair on the finer side and definitely on the darker side.

As per the Keskine colour chart, the tool is ineffective on darker skin tones and lighter hair types.

1

I found the best results were on intimate areas and my armpits, where I saw a massive improvement on darker, coarser hair.

The product is very simple to use, and the cooling sensation that Keskine offers is a standout feature, contributing to a pain-free experience.

The five adjustment levels are also a nice touch to reduce the pain in more sensitive areas.

How much is the Keskine IPL?

One thing that always used to put me off IPLs and at-home treatments was the hefty price tag that often accompanies them.

However, when you compare the cost of the Keskine – usually £299 but currently on sale for £199.99 (or just £159.20 with exclusive code THESUN20) — to just one session at a popular high street therapy clinic, it suddenly feels worthwhile, especially with very similar results on offer.

When compared to other IPLs, such as Braun or Philips, which offer the same level of settings and features, the Keskine IPL stands out financially, making it well worth the investment.

Where to buy the Keskine IPL?

The IPL can be purchased directly from the Keskine site, which often runs offers.

Additionally, Keskine have provided an exclusive 20% discount code for Sun readers, bringing the price down even further to £159.20; however, you may have to act fast as the code is only valid until July 31st at midnight!

There are also sign-up offers that allow 10% off across the site on your first order, as well as Clearpay being available as a payment plan, along with fast, free tracked shipping.

Keskine IPL alternatives

If you’re looking for the same level of quality as the Keskine IPL, with cooling technologies and adjustable power settings, here are some alternatives:

• Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124 Corded IPL Hair Removal, £425 £300 – buy here
• Ulike Air 3, £319.99 £279 – buy here
• FOREO Peach 2 Device, £369 – buy here

Car owners are heading to Amazon in droves to pick up a smart device for vehicles that’s dropped in price.

This handy gadget, similar to Apple Carplay, is now just £36.99, a 20% discount from its original price of £45.99.

1

Aonerex Car Stereo, £36.99 (was £45.99)

This deal has been so popular that the device is the fourth best-selling car stereo on the Amazon website at the time of writing.

While we in the Sun Shopping team haven’t tested this car device ourselves, it comes with a wide range of features that are pretty impressive-looking for that low price.

It’s also gathered some rave reviews from happy drivers on Amazon.

Think of the Aonerex Wireless Auto Screen as a portable, all-in-one smart device for your car.

It’s a 7-inch HD touchscreen that’s super easy to install: you just plug it into your car’s power outlet (it works with any 12-24V socket) and use either the suction cup or the base stand it comes with.

The screen itself is really sharp and clear.

It has a built-in speaker, but for a better sound experience, you can connect it to your car’s stereo using Bluetooth, an AUX cable, or by matching the FM radio frequency.

It works seamlessly with both iPhone and Android phones, so everyone can use it.

Basically, this gadget allows you to:

• Connect wirelessly: Use wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto by connecting your phone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
• Get real-time navigation: Send smart GPS navigation software, like Google Maps, from your phone directly on the screen.
• Control with your voice: Use Siri or Android voice assistants to make calls, send messages, and control your music hands-free.
• Mirror your phone: Cast your iPhone or Android screen to the large 7-inch display to watch videos or stream sports games.
• Enjoy powerful audio: Play music through the device’s built-in speaker or connect to your car’s speakers for a richer sound.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 on the Amazon website, shoppers are loving this device.

One happy customer wrote: “Good, affordable and works perfectly.

“I bought this because it was affordable and I was curious to see how it would work in my car with navigation… I have to say, it performs much better than I expected.

“The screen size is just right, and installation was simple.

“I’d definitely recommend this if you’re looking for a budget-friendly CarPlay option.”

Another buyer said: “Great CarPlay screen. Easy to fix to the dashboard and set up either wired or Bluetooth with phone.

Works really well with iPhone. Really good clear display and plays music well. Touchscreen is good and great for maps.”

And a third customer noted: “Fantastic price, great for using Maps to navigate.

“Android screen mirroring works perfectly, brilliant for Netflix or Spotify.”

Amazon has this marked as the ‘lowest price in 30 days’, so we’re not sure if it’s a temporary deal or if the price is going to stay like this for a while.

And one final note: while you might be able to cast video to the device’s screen, please drive carefully, folks. Keep those eyes on the road.

Aonerex Car Stereo, £36.99 (was £45.99)

Head to The Sun’s shopping motoring hub for more news and deals for car owners.

A MAJOR supermarket has cut the price of Quality Street tubs – but bargain hunters need to move fast as the deal ends today.

The offer is running in stores across the UK, giving shoppers the chance to stock up on Christmas favourites months before the festive season begins.

3

3

It’s Morrisons offering the bargain, letting customers bag two tubs for just £9.

Normally, the tubs sell for £7 each, so the deal works out as a saving of up to 36 per cent.

The offer covers four favourites – the 600g Quality Street tub, plus 550g tubs of Celebrations, Cadbury Heroes and Cadbury Roses.

It’s one of the cheapest supermarket offers around right now, but the bargain won’t last long.

The promotion only runs until August 31, after which prices will jump back up.

So, today is the very last chance to snap up the tubs before the discount disappears.

The offer comes as Christmas chocolates are already hitting supermarket shelves across the country.

Fans were left buzzing this week when B&M stores began selling Quality Street’s famous Strawberry Delight crackers.

Each box contains dark chocolate bites filled with a creamy strawberry centre – and shoppers couldn’t wait to share the news.

One excited fan posted online: “Strawberry Delight are the best Quality Street and the crackers are BACK at B&M.”

Others quickly piled in with their support. One wrote: “Love them and the orange.” Another added: “My favourite.”

Tesco is also running its own offer, slashing the price of a Quality Street tin to £5.95 with a Clubcard.

But some shoppers reckon it’s far too early for festive promos.

One joked: “Be Easter eggs by the end of the month on display.”

Another said: “Don’t know what’s the bigger joke. The price or the fact it’s 4 months early.”

Meanwhile, there’s frustration as Quality Street tubs have shrunk yet again this year.

The classic purple boxes are now 550g, down from 600g last year, and a huge drop from 780g back in 2015.

That means around five or six fewer chocolates per tub, with the number falling from around 63 to roughly 57.

Tom Church, co-founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, said: “The shrinking Quality Street tub has become a Christmas tradition.

“The lights go up, the carols play, the chocolates shrink.”

He joked: “At this rate, the tub will quite literally be empty by 2035.”

Consumer champion Martyn James also blasted the change, saying: “Most people consider this to be out and out greed.”

He added: “Better to charge us more than give us less and not tell us.”

Nestlé, which makes Quality Street, insisted changes are based on “manufacturing, ingredients, transport and customer preferences.”

How to save money on chocolate

We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.

Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.

Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.

They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.

Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.

So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.

3

AMAZON has just slashed the price on a pair of wireless earbuds that shoppers are loving.

Right now, the Cillso H97 Wireless Earbuds are reduced from £129.99 to just £20.99, a huge 84% saving.

1

Cillso H97 Wireless Earbuds, £129.99 £20.99 on Amazon

These pocket-sized earbuds are packed with features you’d normally expect from big-name brands with triple the price tag.

The sound profile is a real crowd-pleaser, powered by 14mm drivers that deliver solid bass with oomph up to 90dB.

And thanks to ENC noise-cancelling tech, background distractions fade away, leaving you with clear music and clear calls.

While ENC isn’t quite as advanced as ANC, it is designed to make calls clearer, rather than blanketly blocking out all ambient noise.

The Cillso buds are also built for everyday life, boasting an IP7 waterproof rating that shrugs off sweat, rain and gym sessions.

You get smart touch controls to skip tracks, answer calls or adjust volume with a tap, much like pricer models from Apple.

But, unlike Apple’s offering, the Cillso H97 buds feature a dual LED display that shows exactly how much battery you have left.

Speaking of battery, these little earbuds clock in at around six to eight hours of listening per charge, with the case boosting that to a massive 40 hours, plus fast USB-C charging when it’s time to top up.

Shoppers on Amazon have been won over, with an almost-perfect 4.9-star average rating and 95% of reviewers handing them a full five stars.

One thrilled buyer wrote: “Absolutely fantastic sound! I was going to splash out on AirPods, so glad I didn’t, these are THE best headphones I’ve ever had.”

Another raved: “The sound quality is excellent, clear, crisp audio with surprisingly deep bass for earbuds in this price range.

The same shopper continued, “The noise-cancelling feature works really well, blocking out background noise during calls and when listening to music.”

A third said: “The battery display counted down remaining hours and achieved a full day of playback before recharge.”

With feedback like that, it’s no wonder these are quickly becoming one of Amazon’s most popular budget audio buys.

The Cillso Wireless Earbuds are still in stock at the time of writing, but at £20.99, it’s easy to see why shoppers are snapping them up.

I’ve also spotted a few other Amazon steals this month that are well worth a look.

Another pair of noise-cancelling headphones dropped to just £22, with shoppers calling them “better than Apple”.

And for those chasing power, Amazon fans love this “incredibly fast-charging” £140 power bank, now only £26.

To see how the Cillso model stacks up against the big names, check out my tried-and-tested guide to the best noise-cancelling headphones.

Cillso H97 Wireless Earbuds, £129.99 £20.99 on Amazon

MULBERRY’S premium leather handbags will never go out of style, and you don’t need to spend the big bucks to get your hands on one.

The Mulberry Black Friday sale is the perfect opportunity to score a discount on the item on your wishlist – here’s everything we know about the mega-sale.

Mulberry sale

The British luxury brand is known and loved for its timeless leather accessories that are loved by celebrities, including Mulberry’s iconic Bayswater Bag.

For Black Friday 2025, we’re anticipating huge deals on Mulberry must-haves, including discounts from other retailers that stock the luxury label.

John Lewis, House of Fraser, and Selfridges are just three retailers worth checking out when the highly-anticipated sales event arrives.

Read on to find out more, including how to secure marked-down Mulberry items on Cyber Monday, and how to bag additional fashion deals.

When is Black Friday 2025?

When is Black Friday? This year, it lands on 28 November 2025.

The mega-sale traditionally takes place the day after the US Thanksgiving (which falls on the last Thursday of November), and it has become a global shopping event known for its dramatic discounts.

Black Friday has become just as popular in the UK as in the US in recent years, and brands and retailers often kick off their sales ahead of the main event.

UK shoppers can expect many retailers — both online and in-store — to launch their Black Friday deals early, with some sales kicking off from the beginning of November.

Wondering what the meaning behind Black Friday is? Check out our explainer.

Is Mulberry taking part in Black Friday this year?

Mulberry has participated in Black Friday in the past, so it’s highly likely that the retailer will return with more discounts this year.

In previous years, shoppers have enjoyed huge savings on bags, purses, holdalls, and other accessories.

Shopping directly from Mulberry’s website is usually where you’ll find the best offers and discounts.

While the Mulberry is yet to officially announce the details of its Black Friday sale, we’re expecting the brand to follow a similar suit to previous years.

To keep up-to-date with information on the Mulberry Black Friday sale, bookmark this page, as we’ll be updating it with all the sale news as it comes in.

What to expect from Mulberry’s Black Friday sale 2025

Shoppers can expect to save on some of the brand’s most popular styles which include the Alexa, Lily, and Darley.

The brand is best known for its Bayswater bag, and even the iconic arm candy has been previously slashed in the Mulberry Black Friday sale.

Plus, other retailers taking part in the Black Friday sale could also include Mulberry items, so keep an eye out for offers at John Lewis, Farfetch, Selfridges, and House of Fraser.

Shoppers will need to be quick when the sale does drop though, as big discounts on the most popular styles are likely to sell out fast.

What was in the Mulberry Black Friday Sale last year?

In 2024, Mulberry’s Black Friday sale featured a range of discounts on some of its most sought-after items.

Here are just a few of our favourite finds from last year’s Black Friday sale:

Mulberry

More Mulberry deals

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Mulberry taking part?

When is Cyber Monday? This year, it will take place on 1 December.

Most brands and retailers continue their Black Friday sales through until Cyber Monday, serving as a final chance to make a big saving.

It’s possible that further reductions will be made on items for Cyber Monday, but it’s not always the case.

However, if there’s a particular item you have your eye on, waiting until Cyber Monday to snap it up means you could risk it selling out.

While Mulberry hasn’t confirmed its plans for Cyber Monday 2025, it’s likely that the discounts will continue throughout the Cyber weekend.

How much does Mulberry’s shipping cost?

If you’re planning to shop online during Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s good to know about its shipping policies.

Mulberry offers free standard shipping on all UK orders, which will take between to and five business days to arrive.

The brand is also currently offering complimentary shipping on new arrivals, although it’s unlikely that these pieces will be reduced in the sale.

Mulberry also provides faster delivery options at an additional cost, including express delivery (1-2 working days) and same-day delivery (if ordered before 3pm).

Express Delivery is priced at £6.95, while Same Day and Saturday Delivery will cost £12.

As it’s the most popular shopping event of the year, it’s worth considering that Black Friday is likely to impact shipping times.

Does Mulberry offer any other discounts?

While Black Friday offers the biggest discounts of the year, Mulberry does have other ways to save.

The brand usually runs sales in the summer and winter, with discounts on selected items.

Plus, Mulberry has been known to occasionally provide promotions through its newsletter.

If you want to shop on a budget outside of Mulberry’s Black Friday sale, it’s worth checking out the brand’s Pre-Loved section or Buy Back option online.

Other retailers stocking Mulberry may also slash the prices of selected items throughout the year, so it’s worth checking various stockists before making a purchase to get the best deal.

Mulberry sale

Find your favourite brand’s Black Friday deals in our A-Z directory

MY DINING table doubles up as my workspace, which means I’m no stranger to a dusting of toast crumbs on my desk.

When I spotted Lakeland’s super-cute countertop vacuum, which costs just £9.99, I was seriously intrigued.

As long as the compact gadget worked well enough, I thought it had potential to be a game-changing cleaning hack.

Mini Countertop Vacuum, £9.99 from Lakeland

On first glance, the Lakeland vacuum is small and sleek. It’s also super easy to use, with a single setting — you press the button to fire it into action, and then you simply move it across any surface to suck up the crumbs.

Technically, that’s something you could do with a normal cordless vacuum cleaner, but, being honest, that feels like too much effort.

Plus, this feels more hygienic, as you can restrict its use to just surfaces and not floors.

Performance

I would usually grab a cloth or a piece of kitchen towel to wipe down the dining table after a meal, but keeping the vacuum nearby presents a much more convenient alternative.

It’s got bristles underneath, which help guide crumbs to underneath the vacuum.

I found the best method was to use it to sweep the crumbs into a corner (while switched off) before turning it on, and then sucking them up.

Mini Countertop Vacuum, £9.99 from Lakeland

Another handy use for the Mini Countertop Vacuum is in the kitchen, when you’re preparing food and creating a mess — I found it particularly useful to have on hand when making toast.

The suction isn’t going to rival a normal vacuum, but it’s easily powerful enough for crumbs, so it definitely does what it claims to — and at £9.99, you’ve got to class that as a win.

I’d recommend it for those quick clean-ups in between proper household cleans.

If you have kids, I can only imagine how much use you’d get out of it — especially since the description says it’ll even suck up glitter!

If you have kids, I can only imagine how much use you’d get out of it — especially since the description says it’ll even suck up glitter!

I might live in an adult-only household, but as a fiend for messy help-yourself meals, I’ve found myself reaching for the countertop vacuum often.

If you work in an office, the device would be useful to keep in a drawer for when you need to do a swift cleanup of your workspace.

It’s not too noisy (although you’re only likely to use it for a few seconds anyway), and it’s also cordless, charging up via a USB cable. 

The small and lightweight design means you could even take it away with you if you’re staying somewhere self-catered.

The only thing it won’t help with is wet spills, so drips and splashes from drinks or sauces will still need to be wiped up.

Mini Countertop Vacuum, £9.99 from LakelandVacuum £9.99

While we’re on the topic of handy household gadgets, I swear by an Amazon clothes steamer that costs £21.99 and helps me avoid ironing.

I also recently tested out one of the most compact cooking devices money can buy, in my Ninja Crispi air fryer review.

Mobiles.co.uk is offer not one, not two, but THREE pieces of tech for the same monthly cost.

The phone provider is offering a free Chromebook and earbuds with Samsung’s flagship device, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, on the iD Mobile network.

1

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with Buds3 Pro and
Chromebook Go: From £29.99p/m

This is a great opportunity to pick up a new laptop device with a brand-new mobile, and to upgrade your audio too.

It’s an absolute gem of a deal for students returning to college or university – although anyone on a tighter budget should look at a similar Chromebook giveaway with the cheaper Samsung Galaxy A16 at Tesco Mobile.

By contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the brand’s reigning monarch of smartphones.

Here, it’s bundled with a brand-new Samsung Chromebook Go, AND a set of noise-cancelling earphones.

Best of all, you’re getting the best of everything, all on one simple monthly plan on the iD Mobile network.

Prices for these pay-monthly plans can vary, as is standard practice.

As you’d probably imagine, the more you pay upfront, the lower your monthly bill will be, giving you flexibility to choose a plan that suits your budget.

You’ll find cheaper phones elsewhere, that’s for sure, but the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a beast, plain and simple.

This top-end Android handset has all the latest tech, including some clever AI stuff, and a camera that’s in a league of its own.

The screen is a huge 6.9-inch beauty that’s so bright and clear it’ll make everything look amazing.

The main lens is a massive 200MP, so your photos will be sharp as a tack, and the huge 5,000mAh battery will keep you going all day long without needing a charge.

Jamie Harris, The Sun’s Assistant Tech Editor, got his hands on this top-of-the-range mobile.

In his Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review, he notes that while “all phone makers are making noise about AI,” Samsung’s new features are positioned as a “companion” to make daily life genuinely easier.

Harris praises the phone’s physical design, stating, “The first thing I’ve noticed this time around is how much lighter it is – literally, so much lighter.”

And then of course there’s that Chromebook, which runs on Google Chrome OS and is the perfect little workhouse for browsing, admin tasks and streaming.

The best bit is that you get both of these bits of kit on a single, easy-to-manage contract.

The Buds3 Pro earbuds, meanwhile, are noise-cancelling and are sold separately for £219 on the Samsung website.

Seriously, if you’re looking for a general level up across your devices, this deal is a winner.

Just keep in mind you’ll need to head to the claims page on the Mobiles.co.uk website to ensure you get the Chromebook.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with Buds3 Pro and
Chromebook Go: From £29.99p/m

Looking for a laptop on its lonesome? The Sun Shopping team’s Tom Tyers recently spotted a ‘powerhouse’ laptop slashed from £450 to £230 on Amazon.

LIDL has released a slew of exciting new items in its famous middle aisle. 

The products include everything from household essentials to gardening gadgets and are available at stores across Britain. 

3

3

3

Two separate sales are underway at the brand’s stores, with both kicking off on August 24. 

The deals include the Clean-up Prices-Down deal and the Parkside sale. 

The Clean-Up Prices-Down has seen a huge range of products go on sale for staggering low prices.

On the more expensive end of the spectrum, Tower Aquajet Plus Carpet Washer retails for just £69.99, while a Nimble Anti-Tangle Vac is selling for just £59.99.

However, some products are selling for under £10. 

The Livarno Home Extendable Handle is just £2.99, as is the brand’s mop head. 

That means a full mop can be yours for just £5 when bought in Lidl’s middle aisle. 

Other products on sale include a £17 Philips iron, a £9.99 clothes airer and a slew of cleaning pads for under £2. 

The Parkside sale includes many of the garden tech brand’s products, some of which are included in the supermarket’s Lidl Plus promotion. 

The Brand’s Long-Reach Hedge Trimmer normally costs £59.99, but is £10 less if you use Lidl Plus. 

The shovel with a root saw retails for £19.99, but is 25 per cent off when you use the store’s promotion. 

Other products in the Parkside middle-aisle sale include a pressure washer, top handle petrol chainsaw and a variety of secateurs. 

A range of Livarno gardenware covers are also available for £4.99.

Lidl regularly goes viral for its wide variety of products.

The supermarket is selling a vacuum cleaner which is £100 cheaper than the exact same one available on Bosch. 

The Bosch Readyy’y Cordless Vacuum Cleaner costs just £99.99 on Lidl’s website. 

Meanwhile, the hoover costs £199.99 on the Bosch website.

The vacuum can be used upright or handheld, making it perfect for cleaning floors and kitchen surfaces.

The device also folds completely flat, making it easy to clean in difficult to reach areas.