The Cadbury’s 25p selection box weighs in at 125g and includes a selection of favourite treats.
This includes Cadbury’s Dairy Milk Freddo Caramel, Fudge, Crunchie,, Dairy Milk Little Bar, Treatsize Buttons and a Wispa.
An identical selection box is on sale at Iceland‘s for £2,50.
But you will have to pop into your local Poundland to pick up the bargain as Poundland‘s website is now for browsing only.
A statement on the site reads: “We’re currently working very hard behind the scenes to simplify and refocus our stores.
“And that means very soon there’ll be even more ranges at £1 and new items to choose from each week.
“Unfortunately, we will no longer be providing an online delivery service from the 16th September 2025.
“While we know most of our online shoppers also visit us regularly in stores (thank you!), we know this will be disappointing to all who’ve been using our online ordering service.”
Cheapest UK supermarket to buy Christmas chocolate tubs
Whether you’re indulging in the festive treats ahead of time or you’re stocking up for your friends, family, and co-workers, this deal offers impressive savings.
A MAJOR supermarket is selling McVitie’s biscuit boxes for just £2.50 ahead of this Christmas season.
The 400g boxes include a selection of family favourites to get in the festive spirit.
1
The McVitie’s Family Circle Biscuit Selection includes a variety of ten different flavoursCredit: Iceland
McVitie’s Family Circle Biscuit Selection boxes are available cheapest at Iceland for just £2.50.
What is included
There are ten different biscuits to choose from in this selection box, including the iconic Milk Chocolate Digestives, popular Custard Creams, and much-loved Rich Highland Shorties.
Also included in the boxes are McVitie’s Choc Chip Cookies, Shortcake, Jam Sandwich Creams, Milk Chocolate Fingers, Crunchy Oat, Nice, and Bourbon Creams.
Shoppers’ reactions
Iceland customers have raved about the product in reviews.
Quality Street chocolates and celebrations are also popular Christmas boxes that have been seen going for cheap recently.
At Morrisons, tubs were seen going for just £4.50 from the discount retailer.
And Lidl and Aldi are also known for providing the best deals of groceries, another major UK retailer was found to have the cheapest rate on chocolate boxes.
This week, Tesco took the crown for best overral rates on Christmas chocolate.
TescoClubcard holders are able to pick upNestleCelebrations and Quality Street for £4.50, whileCadbury’sHeroes and Roses have been reduced to £5.25.
OPENING up her bank account, Grace Parkin can hardly believe how healthy her balance is – and it’s all thanks to Mounjaro.
The mum-of-one says the weight-loss jab has not only helped her slim down to a size 12 from 26, dropping 9st – but it’s stopped her £1k-a-month “boredom spending” sprees.
7
Mum-of-one Grace Parkin lost weight and saved money with Mounjaro
7
The estate manager was 19st 11lbs at her heaviest but lost 9st with the jab
7
Grace was also able to curb her £1,000 a month ‘boredom spending’ habit
7
The 34-year-old decided to give Mounjaro a go after seeing a Facebook post
The estate manager, from Sheffield, had been looking into weight loss surgery but decided to try Mounjaro in May 2024 as a less invasive way to shed the pounds.
Grace, 34, was 17st 9lbs before starting the weekly injections and has now lost 9st 4lbs, making her a slender 10st 7lbs and a size 12.
But she credits the drug, which she is still taking, with not only helping her control her diet but also her out-of-control spending habits.
Previously, the mum-of-one was blowing up to £1,000 a month on luxuries including clothes, eating out and alcohol.
She told The Sun: “I was an impulsive spender before.
“I was spending between £600 and £1,000 a month on recreational things. I’d just be buying shoes – trainers, Uggs, boots.
“Then it would be buying loads of jumpers and holiday clothes, even when I’d not booked a holiday.”
Grace said at her worst, she could spend up to £300 while sat on the sofa.
She explains: “I wasn’t getting into debt, but if I was bored in an evening – I’d buy from Boohoo, PrettyLittleThing, Shein – any brands that did plus-sized clothes.”
Meanwhile, Grace impulsively went on shopping trips several times a week purely for the thrill.
The fat jab postcode lottery laid bare – interactive map reveals UK’s ‘Mounjaro black holes’ as NHS rollout stalls
She said: “Two or three times a week, I’d be in my local shopping centre and would come out with bags of stuff. I’d go to Primark and pick up five or six tracksuits for my son.
“I was void-filling – looking for that adrenaline. If I could spend money and it could give that rush – I’d do it.”
Despite being in a well-paid job and always paying her bills, Grace said by the end of the month her wages would be gone.
But since being on Mounjaro, Grace had cut her spending down and now saves £600 each month.
She said: “Now if I need something, I buy it, but I no longer buy things due to boredom. I’m saving in excess of £600 a month.”
“”I am sure my Uber Eats driver probs think I’ve died.
SAVVY saver Karen Powell keeps her spending on a strict diet plan to save her hundreds of pounds every year.
Karen, from Surrey Hills, has budgets for different outgoings and checks her bank statements each week to make sure she’s on track with her money.
The 63-year-old, who runs the time management and organisation skills company The Organising Lady, said: “It’s so important to slim down your spending for your mental health, relationships, and family.
“There’s nothing worse than worrying about money.
“Spending can be addictive if you’re not careful – it’s a dopamine hit going shopping.”
To keep her finances on track, Karen limits her spending.
“I try and stick to £100 a week on food.
“We’re careful with holidays, and will only have two ‘splurge meals’ out while we’re away.
“Me and my sister set a £20 limit on birthday and Christmas presents.
“And me and my husband don’t buy gifts for each other.”
She makes sure to never throw away any food by bulk cooking and freezing – which she reckons saves her £600 a year at least.
She also puts time in her diary each week to monitor her finances.
“Once a week, I’ll look at my bank account to make sure I haven’t splurged and so I can keep track of what I’ve spent.”
She also has “treat” days where she’ll buy affordable things for herself to avoid overspending on big shopping trips.
“I’m human and I love clothes – I just make sure I choose well now, and stick to the rule of one in, one out and sell my unwanted clothes on sites like Vinted.”
Some users of the weight-loss jab have reported a secondary side effect that has helped them to curb impulsive spending.
It’s thought the drug – and other GLP-1 medicines – can not only help to intercept brain signals associated with food cravings but for shopping splurges as well.
She previously got a gastric balloon in 2009 – when she was just aged 18 – but she only lost three stone and found it didn’t help with her eating habits.
She was never a “big eater” but would find herself gorging during the weekend.
Grace would stick to a strict healthy diet during the week, but it would all go out the window at the weekend when she would binge drink and gorge on takeaways and bacon butties.
She said: “I’d think, ‘It’s the weekend – I can treat myself to a takeaway’.”
She would often go out drinking on a Friday or a Saturday and eat a pizza on her way home.
To mop up her hangover the next day, she would tuck into a bacon sandwich and a takeaway.
She says: “By Monday, I’d hate myself and be back on the diet.”
But when she realised her diet wasn’t working she started to look into surgery options, before trying Mounjaro as a last ditch attempt to shift the pounds.
How Grace cut her spending sprees
WE reveal how Grace dramatically cut down her spending sprees.
Spending before:
£200 to £300 on clothes (often in one go)
£300 on holiday spending
£200 to £400 on takeaways
£200 to £400 on meals out
Spending now:
£100 max on clothes
£100 max on takeaways
£100 max eating out
£200 on food shop
Grace said: “It’s been incredible. It turns the food noise off.”
She added it has stopped her cravings to gorge on fast food and while she might still occasionally have a takeaway, she’ll opt for a smaller meal.
She explained: “It removes the guilt from food.”
The only bad side effects she has experienced are feeling cold and nauseous and stomach discomfort.
She said: “I had sulphur burps for one day, but I’d take that every day.”
Grace has also seen the mindset shift help with other aspects of her life – including her spending habits.
How you can slim down your spending
ANDREW Hagger, founder of MoneyComms, shares his top tips to slash your spend and avoid piling on the pounds.
Slim down your direct debits
Check your last few bank statements to see if there are any regular payments or subscriptions you can do without.
Cancel any non-essential direct debits to give your bank balance a breather.
Slash your lunchtime spend
Take a few minutes to make sandwiches for the next day to save a packet compared to shop bought lunches.
Dine out on switching bonuses
Switching your bank account could help you to bag a cash lump sum.
You could earn £100 or more by swapping banks, which can give your balance a big boost.
Shed costly credit card balances
You may be able to save hundreds of pounds by switching to a 0% credit card if your credit score is good.
You can transfer your balance to a 0% credit card for up to 34 months without needing to pay interest.
Drop your overdraft
You could save money by ditching your overdraft and paying with a credit card instead.
Doing so could slash your interest rate from 40% to 24.9%.
But if you pay off your card in full each month then it won’t cost you a penny.
Previously, she would splash out on clothes, holidays, eating out and alcohol without so much as a second thought.
But now she only buys what she needs – and credits the control the drug has given her.
“I didn’t try to curb my spending – it just naturally happened,” she said.
“I had money left after the first month on Mounjaro and thought I’d missed a bill.”
Grace doesn’t usually do a weekly food shop but estimates that if she did it would have been £160 before and now would be around £50.
“Before I’d go looking for tea and pick up 20 other things. Without realising I’d spend £50,” she said.
“Now I don’t go in and look at crisps and puddings.”
Grace says she has seen some harsh comments about those choosing to take the jabs.
But she said: “Why would you want to be miserable?
“When I say I have battled obesity and used medication people say ‘you’ve cheated’.
“I’ve tried it the hard way. This has been life-changing. It’s saved my life.”
7
Grace paid £150 a month to get Mounjaro injections privately
7
But she saved hundreds of pounds thanks to the injections
7
Grace wanted to lose weight but struggled to stick to a diet before Mounjaro
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
A POPULAR UK supermarket has recalled two of its products over fears they could cause an E.coli outbreak.
Customers have been warned not to eat either of the products after it was discovered they may contain Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC).
2
The houmous could spark an E.coli outbreakCredit: Sainsburys
2
Sainsbury’s is asking customers to return the contaminated productsCredit: Sainsburys
Fears have been sparked that the contaminated products could spark an outbreak of the potentially deadly disease.
Customers could suffer serious symptoms including diarrhoea, abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea if they consume the product.
The Shiga toxin-producing E.coli could also cause haemolytic uremic syndrome – a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal.
Anyone who has purchased JS Classic Houmous and JS Lemon & Coriander Houmous is being warned not to eat them.
Customers who have bought the contaminated products are asked to return them to the point of sale urgently.
Full refunds will be handed out to customers who bring back the potentially harmful humus.
Sainsbury’s is putting up in store notices to explain the recall to customers.
A notice issued by the The Food Standards Agency reads: “Sainsbury’s has taken the precautionary step of recalling JS Classic Houmous and JS Lemon & Coriander Houmous because these products may contain Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC).
“If you have bought any of the above products do not eat them. Instead, return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund.”
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC): symptoms, how to avoid, and how to treat
THE most common type of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in the UK is O157.
Symptoms
People infected with STEC can have a combination of the following symptoms:
diarrhoea (about 50 per cent of cases have bloody diarrhoea)
stomach cramps
fever
Some people may have mild diarrhoea, or even no symptoms at all.
Symptoms can last up to two weeks in cases without complications.
A small proportion of patients, mainly children, may develop haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) which is a serious life-threatening condition resulting in kidney failure.
And a small proportion of adults may develop a similar condition called thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TTP).
How it’s transmitted
Cattle are the most important reservoir of STEC O157 in the UK, although STEC have also been found in the faeces of a range of animals, including deer, rabbits, horses, pigs and wild birds.
People can become infected by:
eating contaminated food
contact with infected animals either directly or through inadvertent contact with animal faeces, for example at farms, petting farms and campsites
contact with other people who have the illness (through inadequate hand hygiene after using the toilet, before food handling – particularly in households, nurseries and infant schools, or both
drinking water from inadequately treated water supplies
swimming or playing in contaminated water such as ponds or streams
How to avoid getting it
Good hygiene practices relating to food and drink, and animals and their environment can hep you avoid getting infected.
You must:
cook all minced meat products (burgers, meatloaf, meat balls) thoroughly, until the colour is the same all the way through, and no blood runs from them
ensure refrigerators are working correctly – bacteria grow more quickly at temperatures over 4oC
only leave cooked foods, meat and dairy products out at room temperature for a short time
store uncooked meats below cooked meats and salad vegetables to avoid dripping juices onto ready to eat food
store uncooked and cooked meats on different plates, avoid all contact between raw and cooked meats
thoroughly wash all salad vegetables and do not prepare them with utensils that have also been used for raw meat
children and the elderly who are particularly susceptible to the severe effects of STEC should avoid eating or drinking unpasteurised dairy products
people who have been ill should not prepare food for others for at least 48 hours after they have recovered
boil any drinking water if you are unsure of it’s source
do not swim in water that you think may be contaminated by cattle and sheep in nearby fields
wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet (or helping others including changing nappies), handling raw meat, before meals and after contact with animals
How to treat STEC
There is no specific treatment for STEC infection. The illness is usually self-limiting, and will clear itself within a week.
It’s important to drink plenty of fluids as diarrhoea can lead to dehydration.
Antibiotics are not recommended and are likely to increase the risk of getting complications such as HUS.
Also, stay away from work or school until 48 hours after you’ve stopped vomiting or having diarrhoea.
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
The Spin the Wheel game lets you win a free main meal, drink or dessert
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.
BrewDog beers axed by almost 2,000 pubs across the UK
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.
Pret will trial meal deals in October, November and DecemberCredit: Alamy
Pret plans to trial the meal deal format in the final three months of the year.
Boss Pano Christou said the chain’s focus is on “offering great value for money” as part of its medium-term strategy to grow and return to sustainable profits.
Details on pricing and locations for the trial have yet to be revealed.
Pret’s latest accounts showed a pre-tax loss of £525.2 million for the year to January 2 – largely due to a £552.9 million write-down after a reassessment by owner JAB, which bought the chain in 2018.
This followed a £61.7 million loss the year before.
Despite the losses, Pret said its earnings before adjustments rose 36 per cent to £98 million for the year.
Meanwhile, total revenue dipped 4.2 per cent to £868.4 million compared to the previous year.
Like-for-like sales grew by 2.8 per cent, helped by an 11 per cent expansion to 717 shops as the business continued to grow internationally.
Pret said it is keen to expand further in the US, especially around city centres and travel hubs.
I went to the UK’s best sandwich shop that’s gone viral on TikTok due to amazing family history and huge portions
Christou, Pret’s CEO, said: “2024 was another year of growth for Pret, where we took disciplined decisions to protect sales, despite intense strains on the hospitality industry.
“Going forward our priority will be to drive transactions and sustainable growth by offering great value for money for Pret customers.
“Our focus will be on growing Pret’s market share in the UK and internationally, prioritising city centres and travel hubs, backed by the experience and expertise of additional world-class board members and a strengthened management team.”
Pret opened its first shop in London in 1986 and now employs 12,500 staff across over 700 locations in 21 countries.
Benedict had asthma and several allergies, including eggs, nuts, kiwi fruit and milk.
His parents had worked with the school to put together an allergy action plan in case of a reaction.
The school was responsible for storing oat milk in the staff fridge, which was labelled with the child’s name, and pouring it into Benedict’s cup in the classroom before handing it directly to him.
However, the jury inquest found that, on the day of his death, that process was not followed because his milk had been poured in the staff room rather than the classroom.
Benedict was rushed to hospital but tragically couldn’t be saved and died later that day.
This year, his sister, Etta, six, took a petition to Downing Street to campaign for higher food safety regulations in schools.
She was joined by five other primary school students who took placards and the letter to Whitehall.
They called for Benedict’s Law to be implemented across the country to end the “postcode lottery” of allergy safeguards in schools.
Etta and friends joined other children affected by allergies to stand in front of No 10 and knocked on the door to hand over the petition signed by more than 13,000 people.
It comes following July’s jury inquest intoBenedict’s deathat Peterborough Town Hall, which found that Barnack Primary School, between Stamford and Peterborough, did not follow all the measures in place to prevent the fatalanaphylactic reaction.
It also found there were risks of contamination and delays in administering theadrenaline pen.
2
The school blunder was shared on social mediaCredit: Instagram
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON FOOD ALLERGIES?
APPROXIMATELY 44 per cent of people in Britain have an allergy or allergic disorder of some kind, says the charity Allergy UK.
Rates are higher in under-35s and lowest in pensioners.
The most common food allergies, according to the NHS, are:
Cow milk
Eggs
Peanuts
Nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, cashews, pistachios and Brazil nuts
Soy beans, chickpeas and peas
Shellfish
Wheat
You may be allergic to a food if it makes you feel dizzy, lightheaded, sick or itchy, brings you out in hives or swollen lips or eyes, or causes diarrhoea, vomiting, a runny nose, cough, breathlessness or wheezing.
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.
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.
KINDER has crunched multipacks of its iconic Bueno bars from eight sticks to six in the latest blatant example of shrinkflation ripping off hard-up Brits.
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.
Vodka to the Rescue: Morrisons’ Unconventional Emergency Tactics
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.
How to bag a bargain
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.
One family were ‘blown away’ by the ‘prettiest town’ in the UK – and had ‘endless delights’ during their stay, as it has a ‘perfect’ fish and chip shop
The family walked up to the Abbey(Image: Rob Williams)
Whitby holds a special place in the heart of Manchester Evening News reporter Rob Williams. Its mix of seaside revelry, historic buildings, excellent seafood, and Dracula-related spookiness makes it a place of endless delights for him and his family, and recently they were lucky enough to take trip to the charming seaside town.
However, it wasn’t without its challenges. While climbing Whitby’s famous stairs up to the abbey, Rob realised he may have bitten of more than he could chew.
He said: “It was somewhere around step 150 of 199 that it dawned on me: washing down crispy chilli halloumi bites and battered prawns with a large glass of wine at The Moon and Sixpence was, in hindsight, not ideal preparation for a wobbly ascent of Whitby’s infamous Jacob’s Ladder.”
The first documented reference to these 199 steps dates back to 1340, but it is believed they have been around even longer. Once considered a test of Christian pilgrims’ determination to reach the magnificent Abbey perched above the coastal town.
He said: “In my case, they tested the resolve of an agnostic 50-year-old who’s horribly out of shape. It was a test I passed – just.”
Rob and his family stayed at the ideally situated and tastefully decorated Peony Rose Cottage on Cliff Street in the heart of the town – a charming two-bedroom property seemingly just a five-minute stroll from all the must-see sights.
The charming exterior of the cottage(Image: Holiday Cottages)
He said: “From the outside, the cottage is charming: a pink gate and door, tangled greenery, and a cosy seating area set the tone. That same thoughtful design continues inside. The cottage is snug and filled with little touches that bring a smile as you discover them.
“The central seating area, like the rest of the home, is beautifully decorated and inviting. A multi-fuel stove, television, and large, squashy sofa provide the perfect place to flop after a day’s exploring.
“As a base for exploring Whitby, this place would be hard to beat.”
The lounge of Rob’s accommodation(Image: Holiday Cottages)
It’s frequently claimed that no journey to Whitby is truly finished without stopping at the famous Magpie Cafe, and Rob discovered exactly why this rings true.
TripAdvisor overflows with rave reviews celebrating the “perfect” fish and chips, outstanding service, and fair pricing.
“We went twice during our stay and were impressed both times.
A cosy bedroom in the cottage(Image: Holiday Cottages)
“The fish and chips were among the best I’ve ever had. Despite the crowds, the service was efficient and unfazed. The cafe caters well to those needing gluten-free options, and the thin, crispy batter on the GF chippy tea was excellent. Other seafood dishes on the menu were equally fresh and full of flavour.”
For those who adore fish and chips, Whitby proves to be the ultimate destination – particularly Quayside, which truly stands out.
Nevertheless, brace yourself for the masses and think about making a reservation in advance to dodge those endless waits. For breakfast, the family headed to the wonderfully quirky Jet Black Jewel Cafe Bar on Skinner Street.
The gothic décor – featuring taxidermy, skulls, and assorted oddities – might not suit everyone’s preference, but Rob declared the food was “very good indeed”.
Whitby offers numerous attractions, yet a trip to the Abbey remains absolutely essential.
The abbey(Image: undefined)
During their stay, the excellent Time Will Tell theatre company was staging a family-friendly, three-person version of Dracula in the open air.
Haunting yet captivating, this production has been running for over 13 years and is certainly worth catching if it’s on.
With its diverse collection of distinctive shops, ancient streets, seaside charm, excellent food, and literary connections, Whitby appeals to every taste.
Being positioned in the town centre without requiring a car improved our experience, and Peony Rose Cottage proved the perfect headquarters for discovering this coastal gem on foot.
Just perhaps avoid the pinot before tackling those steps.
Travel fact box
Rob Williams enjoyed a stay in Whitby, courtesy of holidaycottages.co.uk.
Peony Rose Cottage, a charming two-bedroomed cottage, is conveniently located less than 500 metres from the beach and a mere 150 metres from a local pub and shop.
To book your stay at Peony Rose Cottage, visit www.holidaycottages.co.uk – prices begin at £555 for a week-long stay, accommodating 4 guests in 2 bedrooms.
It is set to open its doors late in 2026, as the first of several restaurants planned to come to London.
Expected to be a site with bold signage and high visibility in the centre of Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square, the new branch will fit right into its vibrant West End location.
Opening at 21-22 Coventry St, it will be right amidst the nightlife, entertainment, theatre and shopping district.
Raising Cane’s loyal fanbase in the States have loved its “Craveable Chicken Finger Meals” and five core menu products.
These include its iconic Crispy Chicken Fingers, that are said to be have been marinated for more than 24 hours, and hand-breaded.
There is also Buttery Cane’s toast, which is an American classic of thick-sliced white bread that is spread with butter and then grilled until golden or crispy “to perfection”.
Another staple is the Crunchy Coleslaw which is described to be hand-mixed and made fresh.
Raising Cane’s Closes 849 Locations on Easter for Family Time!
And finally, their Crispy crinkle-cut fries that are served hot and salted.
There is also Cane’s Sauce that is iconic to the restaurant, and has been awarded the number one “most craveable sauce” in the restaurant industry, along with its chicken.
The addition of Raising Cane’s to London’s Piccadilly Circus will mean it joins some other globally iconic locations that the restaurant chain can be found, including Times Square and the Las Vegas Strip.
As is tradition with the fast food restaurant, it will also feature curated memorabilia and decor to pay homage to the location’s community, history and icons in London.
10
Raising Cane’s plans to open several branches in London in the futureCredit: Raising Canes
10
Raising Cane’s sauce and chicken has been named #1 most craveableCredit: Raising Canes
10
Cynthia Erivo can be seen enjoying the crinkle cut friesCredit: Raising Canes
Raising Cane’s co-CEO and COO AJ Kumaran said: “Bringing Raising Cane’s to the UK has been a dream of ours for many years and we’re excited to officially open the doors to our UK flagship late next year.
“We love the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Piccadilly Circus and are looking forward to marking this milestone with a flagship in the heart of London.
“With more than 950 restaurants across the US and Middle East, Europe presents an excellent expansion opportunity as we embark on this next phase of growth, and we’re excited to begin that growth with the UK.”
Raising Cane’s was founded in 1996 in Louisiana by Todd Graves, who wanted to present a Chicken Finger-focused concept.
“The Mothership” first restaurant opened in Baton Rouge in Louisiana, which Graves built by hand and it still stands today.
He said: “When I started Raising Cane’s 29 years ago, I never imagined we’d grow to where we are today as we announce our expansion into the UK with the opening of our UK flagship in iconic Piccadilly Circus.
“The demand from our customers and fans in the UK has been incredible and I can’t wait to show London what we’re all about.”
10
Restaurants are known to honour the location they are in with memorabilia and decorCredit: Raising Canes
10
A number of branches are located in iconic places around the States and soon the UKCredit: Raising Canes
10
Chance the Rapper stopped by a Raising Cane’s in WrigleyvilleCredit: Getty
M&S has introduced a major shakeup to is store shelves which is exciting news for shoppers.
This is ideal for anyone wanting to try out some different lunch options during their weeks.
4
These new food items have just arrived on supermarket store shelvesCredit: Marks & Spencer
4
The chicken tikka sandwich is back by popular demandCredit: Marks & Spencer
4
There is also a limited edition butter chicken wrapCredit: Marks & Spencer
4
Two new bagels have been introduced including a New York deli-style oneCredit: Marks & Spencer
There are new sandwiches, wraps and bagels from the major retailer’s Foodhalls which are available now.
It is an entirely new section to the Marks and Spencer food aisle for people to try.
The shelves have been labelled NEW in the fridge section of grocery stores, with ‘PICK ME! I’ve just arrived’ signs attached.
Among the top picks for this month from the new selection includes a Chicken Tikka Sandwich which is “back by popular demand”.
This sandwich is described to have “creamy” spiced and marinated roast chicken breast inside some “soft malted” onion seed bread.
There is also spinach, tikka sauce and a “cooling” yoghurt raita, so the sandwich is “generously filled and packed with flavour”.
It is priced at £4 from the popular grocer, and is a limited edition.
Another addition is a similar seeded tortilla wrap version, which is a Butter Chicken Wrap that has been added to the new collection.
It is a “summer edit” of the retailer’s food hall that “combines succulent British chicken breast with a luxuriously creamy butter chicken sauce accompanied by crispy spinach, tangy pickled red onion and crunchy cabbage.”
Clemmie Moodie tries the new Arctic Colin the Caterpillar
The American deli-inspired one has been called the “Ruben bagel” which has layers of beef pastrami, pickles, mustard and cream cheese.
Finally, there is the “Katsu Sando” which is going for £5 from M&S.
The Katsu Sando is also part of the “summer edit” described to have panko breaded chicken, katsu curry spiced mayo, pickled cabbage and coriander inside.
As M&S have stated: “The Katsu Sando makes a mouthwatering lunch that’s sweet, spicy and satisfying.”
There is also a honey soy ketchup sauce added to the sandwiches flavour, that is contained within some soft brioche-style bread.
These latest “lunch sensations” can be found at M&S Foodhalls now, and are just some of the store’s top picks for the month.
The news of this updated lunch range from M&S comes after the popular retailer also released a new version of its iconic Colin the Caterpillar Cake.
To mark the much-loved dessert’s 35th birthday, The Sun’s Clemmie Moodie got to have an exclusive first try of the new Arctic Colin.
Arctic Colin went on sale at M&S stores just last week, after two years in the making.
HISTORY OF M&S
M&S was founded in 1884 by Michael Marks and Thomas Spencer in Leeds.
The first official Marks and Spencer store opened in Manchester in 1901.
Throughout the 1920s, M&SA gre rapidly, opening more and more stores across the country.
The retailer made its reputation in the early 20th century by selling only British-made products.
It began textile sales in 1926 and started selling food from 1931.
The St Michael trademark was introduced in 1928 as a guarantee of quality and value.
This was initially used only for a small range of textiles but was extended over the years to cover all goods sold by M&S.
M&S introduced its first in-store cafe in 1935 in the Leeds store.
It provided cheap, hygienic, and nutritious mass catering.
By 1942, M&S opened 82 cafes across its estate.
At the outbreak of the Second World War, M&S had 234 stores.
By 1945, over 100 of these had been damaged by bombs, and 16 had been completely destroyed.
BY 1960, M&S pioneered in the sale of fresh poultry following the invention of the cold-chain process.
In the 1970s and 1980s, M&S pushed into international markets including the US, Canada and France.
In 1979, M&S introduced the Chicken Kiev to its food halls across the UK.
In 1992, Percy Pigs were launched.
The Autograph range of clothing was introduced in 2000, and the St Michael brand was slowly phased out.
In 2019, the group announced 110 store closures as part of its plans, affecting several longstanding high-street shops.
In September 2020, M&S partnered with Ocado to allow for home delivery of the chain’s full food range.
M&S has recently announced new stores and is freshening up a swathe of others in a boost for shoppers.
WHETHER it’s fish and chips, a fry-up or afternoon tea and cake, British diets are pretty calorific.
And all that fat, sugar and salt is having a serious impact on our waistlines, with almost one in three of us considered obese.
6
Use another country’s way of eating to help you lose weightCredit: PA
That might seem pretty high, but it’s actually considerably lower than the 43 per cent obesity rate in the United States.
Even Australia trumps the UK at 32 per cent, and these figures don’t even account for the people who are simply overweight.
Around the world, each country has its own way of eating; some contain lots of processed foods, while others enjoy more vegetables or have a focus on fish and meat.
Often, these diets have a huge influence on the population’s body mass index (BMI) – a way of measuring if you’re a healthy weight.
A score between 18.5 and 24.9 is healthy, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30-plus is obese.
Many of us think of obesity as just being fat, but it’s actually increasingly being recognised as a chronic, complex disease.
“Fat is what gives a sense of fullness in a meal,” says Lucia Stansbie, registered nutritional therapist.
“When we eat fat, hormones telling the brain to stop eating are released, making a full fat yogurt more satisfying that a zero per cent one, so you end up needing to eat less.
“Many low fat foods have added sugars and emulsifiers to recreate the same texture of full fat foods, making them ultra processed foods (UPFS).”
Research published in the journal Current Nutrition Reports identified UPFs as being a key driver of obesity.
6
The French, who have an 11 percent obesity rate love cheese – but they go for full-fatCredit: Getty
In France, all-day grazing is a no-no – so much so, that snack products often contain a warning on the packet which says, “for your health, avoid snacking between meals”.
“Snacks can be the downfall of all diets as they can be very calorie-dense,” says Lucia.
“And if they’re sugar-rich, they can lead to a sugar high followed by a crash so more snacks are needed to pick yourself up.
“Eating a proper meal that fills you up until your next one is the best strategy.”
Instead of having a plain, low-carb, low-calorie vegetable salad for lunch to manage your weight, enjoy a meal with a source of protein, some carbs and healthy fats to keep you full until dinner time.
“This is better than being really hungry a few hours after lunch and craving a high calorie snack,” says Jess Hillard, nutritionist at Warrior.
Try some spicy chicken with sweet potato mash, avocado and a vinaigrette.
If you like wine… eat like the Italians
Obesity rate: 22 per cent
ALTHOUGH alcohol can pack in some serious calories, you don’t have to go teetotal to lose weight.
Instead, go for quality booze, in moderation, alongside food.
“In Italy, people don’t drink on an empty stomach,” says Lucia.
“Doing so leads to sugar spikes and then sugar crashes, so we eat quick-release carbs such as crisps or sweets to get our energy back.”
One way to flatten this spike is eating a decent meal.
The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK plates so smaller portions are eaten
Lucia StansbieNutritional therapist
Lucia adds: “In Italy, there is a big focus on quality and taste.
“People don’t drink a cheap bottle of wine to get drunk. Instead, they match a nice glass of wine with the meal they are having.
“Culturally, getting drunk and excessive drinking are frowned upon.
“This makes a massive difference in the amount of alcohol that is consumed.”
Italian mealtimes are also leisurely. Rather than wolfing down lunch at a desk while frantically working on a deadline, Italians eat mindfully.
“Mindful eating leads to eating slower and feeling fuller sooner, while eating while distracted – such as while working or watching TV – will lead to less satisfaction and mindlessly eating bigger amounts of foods or looking for snacks,” says Lucia.
6
Olive oil is the main fat used in Italy, where only 22 per cent of the population is obeseCredit: Getty
Don’t forget to add olive oil – the main fat used in Italy – to your meals too.
A study published in the European Journal of Nutrition found that fat loss was approximately 80 per cent higher for participants who included 25ml of extra virgin olive oil in their diet compared to those who didn’t.
Lucia adds: “The size of serving plates in Italy are also smaller than the standard UK serving plates, so smaller portions are eaten.”
Why not try swapping your dinner plates for side plates or pasta bowls? You’ll be forced to reduce your portion!
If you love carbs… eat like the Japanese
Obesity rate: 5 per cent
DESPITE popular belief, carbohydrates are certainly not the devil when it comes to weight loss.
Not only could they actually help you slim down, they could even help you live longer.
Japan is home to Okinawa – a ‘blue zone’, where many people live to 100 and beyond.
Their diet? An estimated 10:1 carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, according to a study in the journal Age and Ageing – yes, that’s 10 times as much carbs as protein!
While you definitely shouldn’t turn your back on protein, you shouldn’t fear carbs.
Longevity tips from the Blue Zones
The Blue Zones are five regions across the world where people regularly live to the ripe old age of 100, largely thanks to their diets and daily habits.
The term was coined by author and National Geographic fellow Dan Buettner, who made a name for himself studying the world’s longest living people.
The Blue Zones include Okinawa in Japan, the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, Ikaria in Greece, Sardinia in Italy and Loma Linda in California.
According to Dan, inhabitants of these swear by nine lifestyle tips.
Dubbed the ‘Power 9’, the longevity guru argued that they can provide “instructions and clues for how we can set up our lives to live longer”.
They include:
Moving naturally rather than going to the gym
Having a purpose in iife
Keeping stress to minimum with naps and happy hours
Stopping eating before you’re full
Eating mostly plants
Drink no more than two glasses of wine a day and never bingeing
Belonging to a community, faith-based or not
Putting your loved ones first
Keeping a social circle that supports healthy behaviours
But Lucia says the type of carbs you choose will make a huge difference.
“Wholegrains have a higher fibre content, which means that the sugar spike won’t be so high, while white carbs are devoid of all fibre,” she adds.
“The body can manage a maximum of 4g of sugar in the blood at a time; the excess will be stored either in the liver as glycogen or as abdominal fat.
“Eat slow release carbs – such as wholegrains – and pair them with fibre (such as vegetables), proteins (such as meat, fish and eggs) and fats (such as avocado, olive oil and nuts) to ensure a slow release of sugar in the blood system for sustained energy and weight management.”
6
Tuck into seafood and cut back on red meat.
“Fish and seafood are excellent sources of protein,” says Lucia.
“Just 100g of fish has, on average, the same amount of protein as 100g of meat but fewer calories.
“Oysters are the richest source of zinc. People with diabetes, which is often linked to obesity, tend to have lower zinc levels.
“Plus, fish and shellfish are sources of iodine, a mineral essential for thyroid function, and suboptimal function can lead to increased weight and fatigue.”
If you love chocolate… eat like the Swiss
Obesity rate: 14 per cent
LINDT, Toblerone, Nestlé – some of the best chocolate in the world comes from Switzerland.
So how can such a chocolate-filled nation remain so slim?
Along with an active lifestyle, Jess says that listening to your body is key.
“Ignoring cravings makes you want them even more and binge on them eventually,” she says.
“Have a balanced meal before the chocolate you’re craving.
“If you still want some chocolate, break off a few squares and put the rest of the bar away.”
6
Eat like the Swiss, who have a 14 per cent obesity rate, and enjoy chocolateCredit: Getty
Depriving yourself will only make you want it more and make you more likely to scoff the whole bar!
The Swiss also love their oily fish.
“Oily fish contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA,” Jess says.
“These are excellent for brain health and they’ve been found to reduce the risk of heart disease.
“Aim for two portions of fish per week. One of these should be oily, such as salmon, mackerel or sardines.”
Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein. Any fats should be thumb-size
Jess HillardNutritionist
Omega-3s have been found to potentially help with fat loss.
In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, adults given 4g of fish oil per day lost 0.5kg of body fat and built more muscle than those who were not given fish oil.
Plus, research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that incorporating fish into one meal a day as part of a weight loss regime was more effective than the regime on its own.
“Fish’s high oil content keeps you fuller for longer as well as helping to decrease inflammation in the body,” says Jess.
Inflammation can lead to health problems, including chronic inflammation, which can even cause the body to hold onto fat, especially visceral fat which sits around your organs.
If you struggle to eat your five-a-day… eat like the Vietnamese
Obesity rate: 2 per cent
NOODLE soups, grilled meats, broths and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables are the order of the day in Vietnam, which boasts an incredibly low obesity rate.
Most dishes are delicious, yet nutritious – so you don’t even notice how much veg you’ve eaten.
“Vegetables are filled with fibre which will keep you fuller for longer,” says Jess.
“They also contain few calories as well as high levels of vitamins and minerals, particularly non-starchy vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, peas and leafy greens.
“Having a nutrient rich diet won’t just ‘stop cravings’ for high fat and/sugary foods.
“You will feel fuller after meals, meaning you won’t feel the need for these foods as much.”
6
Pho, a healthy Vietnamese staple, might be how the country has a two per cent obesity rateCredit: Getty
She recommends filling half your plate with veg at every meal, and to make sure your veggies retain their nutrients, choose steaming over boiling or frying.
Research published in the journal Nutrition & Food Science found that when steamed, vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and lettuce lose nine to 15 per cent of their vitamin C content.
The Vietnamese way of eating is an easier way to get these veggies into meals – you can buy noodle soup kits in supermarkets to try at home.
Compared to many western countries, Vietnam’s portions are also fairly moderate.
Practising portion control is simple and can be done using just your hands.
“Aim for two fists of vegetables, one palm full of carbohydrates and one palm of protein,” says Jess.
“Any fats, such as oils, butter and cheese, should be thumb-size.”
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
Tubs usually cost £7 but shoppers can save over a thirdCredit: Alamy
3
It disappears from shelves after todayCredit: Getty
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
The classic purple boxes are now 550g – down from 600g last year, and a huge drop from 780g back in 2015Credit: Alamy
WITH the new school year right around the corner, millions of parents are back to looking for lunch inspiration for their kids.
While fresh fruit, a sarnie and yoghurt are go-to picks for many families, one ”stay-at-home-dad” has left the internet stunned with his kid’s packed lunch.
2
The luxury lunch boxes have gone viral on TikTok, leaving viewers totally dividedCredit: TikTok/@tyler.yan
2
One lunch box consisted of steak cooked to perfection, as well as truffle fries and sauteed shiitake mushroomsCredit: TikTok/@tyler.yan
Foodie Tyler Yan regularly shares mouth-watering recipes on his TikTok, such as the viral Japanese Sando with strawberries and refreshing smoothie bowls for his wife.
But it’s not just Tyler’s partner who gets to enjoy his talent at cooking – their daughter, too, gets treated to luxury lunch boxes for school.
In a now-viral video posted on social media, the stay-at-home dad revealed he gave his daughter three glass jars full of fresh caviar which he served on ice to keep it cold.
The bizarre lunch also included crackers, a generous amount of cream cheese, which he hoped the girl would enjoy with smoked salmon.
For dessert, the child was given fresh figs – a lunch that ”sounded good”.
”Felt like a solid Wednesday move,” Tyler wrote in the caption.
The daughter, whose age is unknown, indeed gets to experience the finest things in life, as another clip saw Tyler filling her lunch box with octopus.
The ”Mediterranean-style box” also came with herby lemon quinoa, tomato cucumber salad, fresh figs, and marinated olives on the side.
On a different day, the girl went to school with a fresh arugula salad topped with cheese and steak cooked to perfection.
The epic lunch box, he shared in the video, also consisted of truffle fries, sauteed shiitake mushrooms, as well as sliced apples with peanut butter for something sweet.
Mum slams parents buying back to school gifts & ‘balloon arches’ saying ‘a present anytime anything happens’ is a joke
But while Tyler created the jaw-dropping lunches with love and care, social media users weren’t so sure if his daughter actually enjoyed them.
Thousands of TikTokers insisted that the child must be trading her lunches with other kids and were in disbelief how luxe the food was.
”That lunch costs more than my rent,” one person thought about the caviar-rich box, which has racked up over 19million views.
Easy lunch box ideas that aren’t sarnies
Here are some kid-friendly, easy lunch box ideas that aren’t sandwiches:
Sanjugo is a Japanese sushi restaurant with three locations across LondonCredit: Instagram
4
Taqis Grill in Birmingham is known for its tasty burgers and doner kebabsCredit: Instagram
4
Low and Slow in Bristol cooks its meats for up to 20 hours to get the perfect textureCredit: Instagram
4
Burg N Ice serves up smash burgers, crispy chicken tenders and plenty of sweet treatsCredit: Instagram
Takeaway fans have been voting for their favourite restaurant to claim the top prize, which will be announced later this year.
A total of 130 restaurants originally made the nominations list.
Now one takeaway from each region has been selected to have a shot of becoming the overall winner.
These are the finalists:
London – Sanjugo
Yorkshire – Silver’s Deli
Scotland: YAYAS
North West: Burg N Ice
North East: Sushi Me Rollin’
West Midlands: Taqi’s Grill
Wales: Sharkbite Burgers
South West: Low & Slow
South East: Umami Street Food
East Midlands & Anglia: Wok & Grill
Northern Ireland: Seed
Ireland: Urban Health
London gem Sanjugo has an impressive 4.8 stars out of 5 on Google Reviews.
The Japanese sushi restaurant currently has locations in Angel, Shoreditch and Victoria.
Another Japanese restaurant to make the cut is Sushi Me Rollin’ in Newcastle Upon Tyne.
It’s known for its hand-crafted sushi with wacky names, including The Attenborough and The Karate Squid.
Two burger restaurants are also on the list.
Takeaway fans spend £51k over lifetime treating themselves
There’s Burg N Ice, which offers smashed burgers and crispy chicken tenders alongside sweet treats like ice cream and waffles.
Meanwhile Sharkbite Burgers in Cwmbran, Wales, serves up giant burgers like the Daddy Shark and the Megalodon.
It was set up by competitive bodybuilder Mark, also known as Sharkey, and his partner Tash.
Barbecue and grill restaurants also feature among the finalists.
Taqi’s Grill in Birmingham is known for its Cajun Chargrilled Doner Kebab, Signature Burger and Beef Smash Burger.
Meanwhile Low & Slow in Bristol smokes its delicious meat dishes for up to 20 hours to get the perfect texture and taste.
Leicester’s Wok & Grill offers a fusion of authentic Indo-Chinese and flame-grilled dishes.
You can get everything from noodle and rice boxes to peri peri chicken and gourmet burgers.
The winner of the sought-after title will be crowned in London.
They will receive a huge £100,000 prize to invest into their business.
All the finalists will receive a £5,000 prize and a tailored support package from Uber Eats to help boost their business.
The winners will be judged by experts such as Levi Roots, Eating with Todd, Clodagh McKenna, and 2024 Restaurant of the Year winner Natty Crutchfield.
More than 60% of restaurants onUberEats are small or medium-sized businesses.
Matthew Price, general manager of Uber Eats UK, Ireland and Northern Europe, said: “Independent restaurants are the beating heart of the UK and Ireland’s food scene.
“Whether it’s your local burger joint, a climate-conscious vegan cafe, or a TikTok-famous pop-up, Uber Eats is proud to support the businesses that bring flavour, jobs, and culture to our communities.”
How to save money on your takeaway
TAKEAWAYS taste great but they can hit you hard on your wallet. Here are some tips on how to save on your delivery:
Cashback websites– TopCashback and Quidco will pay you to order your takeaway through them. They’re paid by retailers for every click that comes to their website from the cashback site, which eventually trickles down to you. So you’ll get cashback on orders placed through them.
Discount codes – Check sites like VoucherCodes for any discount codes you can use to get money off your order.
Buy it from the shops – Okay, it might not taste exactly the same but you’ll save the most money by picking up your favourite dish from your local supermarket.
Student discounts – If you’re in full-time education or a member of the National Students Union then you may be able to get a discount of up to 15 per cent off the bill. It’s always worth asking before you place your order.
BRITAIN’S top restaurant chains have seen profits soar by almost a fifth after replacing staff with self-service tills and apps.
They hit £365million at the top 100 groups this year, up from £308million in 2024.
Accountancy group UHY Hacker Young also found that turnover was up 19 per cent to £12.9billion, from £10.8billion.
It said growth had been particularly strong for the fast food and casual dining sector, with burger and steakhouse chains enjoying some of the largest turnover increases.
UHY Hacker Young partner Martin Jones said chains had been investing in technology such as touchscreen tills in fast-food outlets.
Many had also upgraded menu offerings to increase prices, as a way of boosting earnings.
He said: “While many chains are still suffering from depressed margins and weak demand, there’s enough innovation and expansion to deliver better results.”
Hospitality has been particularly hard-hit by the increase in employers’ National Insurance.
Half of all job losses since the Budget have been in that sector, according to analysis of data from the Office for National Statistics by UKHospitality.
It means one in every 25 jobs in pubs, hotels, cafes, restaurants and bars has been axed.
1
Britain’s top restaurant chains have seen profits soar by almost a fifth after replacing staff with self-service tills and appsCredit: Getty
T&C’s ARE KAFKA-ESQUE
BANKS and insurance firms need to stop writing terms and conditions that are “longer than some classic novels”, campaigners urge.
Policies on travel insurance and investment products are the worst, clocking in at 26,000 words — around the same length as Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis, analysis by Fairer Finance claims.
It comes despite the financial regulator in 2023 introducing rules forcing firms to prove that customers understand such documents.
Fairer Finance said the longer the documents were, the less likely customers were to know what they mean — or to engage with them at all.
Managing director James Daley added: “The grace period is now over, and we expect the regulator to start holding companies to account.”
ENERGY CRISIS
HOUSEHOLDS cannot afford more energy price hikes, the regulator has been warned.
More than 12 million people are struggling to pay already — but Ofgem is expected to announce tomorrow a rise in the energy price cap to £1,737 from October.
Commenting on the research from York University, Simon Francis of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, said: “The time for tinkering with the price cap is over.”
RENT CONS UP
RENTERS have been warned to watch out for fake landlord scams after crooks made £20million from them last year.
The average victim lost £4,711, Action Fraud said. The total haul was up by 45 per cent on the previous year.
Richard Daniels, of TSB, said: “Scammers prey on a competitive rental market with too-good-to-be-true listings that trick house- hunters into making advanced payments.”
It all kicked off at the weekend with a thumping 69 – 7 win for England over the USA.
7
Here’s how you can cheer on the British sides at the Women’s Rugby World Cup without blowing your budgetCredit: Getty
Whether you fancy catching a match live, soaking up the atmosphere in a fan zone or simply clinking pints with pals, there are plenty of ways to cheer on the tournament without blowing your budget.
Here are some ideas . . .
NAB A TICKET: Want to see a match live? There are still tickets this week.
You can currently get them for Australia v USA on Saturday, with adult seats from £15 and kids for a fiver.
See rwc2025.rugbyworldcup.com/events to bag yours.
PUB PERK: If you’d rather watch with a pint in hand, Young’s Pubs are showing the action on big screens.
And they are offering one free round of Asahi for dining bookings of four–ten people on match days.
The deal is only at selected pubs, so check youngs.co.uk to see where’s in.
FAN FUN: Head to the fan zone at Power Station Park in London for free screenings, DJs, T1 Rugby coaching sessions and activities from tournament partners.
In Bristol, the harbourside Amphitheatre will be buzzing as the city hosts the semi-finals and two quarter-finals, with lots of pre and post-match fun on offer.
From The Sports Desk – Women’s Rugby World Cup – England’s route to the final
PLAY ON: Want to play or join in with the World Cup spirit?
Use the ‘Find Rugby’ tool on englandrugby.com to track down local clubs hosting World Cup events, sign up for family friendly rugby activities and explore opportunities for girls to get into the game with free taster sessions at rugby clubs across the country.
GET OUT ON THE PITCH: You can also grab a ball and practise your passing skills with the whole family in the garden.
The official Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Supporter Ball is now available, for £25, online at store.world.rugby.
All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Deal of the day
7
Save £104 on the Philips PerfectCare 7000 Series pressurised steam generator ironCredit: Supplied
FOR easy, crease-free clothes, pick up the Philips PerfectCare 7000 Series pressurised steam generator iron, which has a recommeded retail price of £199.
It’s £95 for members at ao.com.
SAVE: £104
Cheap treat
7
Save £1.75 on Chicago Town tiger crust double pepperoni pizza at IcelandCredit: Supplied
TUCK into a Chicago Town tiger crust double pepperoni pizza, usually £3.50, now £1.75 at Iceland.
SAVE: £1.75
What’s new?
GET down to an Asda near you as the new autumn home edit has landed with toadstool duvet covers, pumpkin plates and more.
We love this pumpkin candle, £5.
Top swap
7
Try Chanel Coco Mademoiselle eau de parfum spray 35ml, £66.30 from BootsCredit: Supplied
7
Or head to Marks & Spencer for Soft Iris eau de toilette 100ml, £10Credit: Supplied
TRY Chanel Coco Mademoiselle eau de parfum spray 35ml, £66.30 from Boots, or head to Marks & Spencer for Soft Iris eau de toilette 100ml, £10.
SAVE: £56.30 and get 65ml more
Little helper
FORGET high cafe prices and whip up a trendy drink at home instead with Aldi’s Asia Green Garden matcha latte, £1.49, available in original and strawberry flavour.
Shop and save
7
Save £1.07 on this Soft & Gentle Hyaluronic Care watermelon spritz deodorant at SuperdrugCredit: Supplied
FRESHEN up with Soft & Gentle Hyaluronic Care watermelon spritz deodorant – was £3.40, now £2.33, at Superdrug.
SAVE: £1.07
Hot right now
THE big Disney Store Summer Sale has started. Head to disneystore.co.uk/sale to get up to 50 per cent off selected products.
PLAY NOW TO WIN £200
7
Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle
JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.
Every month we’re giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers – whether you’re saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered.
Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.
The more codes you enter, the more tickets you’ll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!
A WOMAN has believed that she suffers with a rare condition that’s so bad, cruel trolls have told her she needs to call an “exorcist.”
Rachel, 20, revealed that her condition is so bad, she barely leaves the house and struggles to even order food at a restaurant.
2
Rachel suffers with Tourette’sCredit: YouTube
2
Her condition caused her to not want to leave the houseCredit: YouTube
The content creator suffers with Tourette’s, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary sounds or movements, known as tics.
Her body often twitches in an uncontrollable manner, and she makes lots of “random” noises such as whistling.
However, the worst part about Rachel’s condition is that she has something called coprolalia, which is a form of Tourette’s that causes sufferers to shout obscene and inappropriate phrases.
Only between 10 and 30% of Tourettes sufferers have coprolalia and it can cause those who have it to become extremely embarrassed and stressed.
Read more real life stories
“It does become frustrating that I can’t stop my tics or control them”, she told Love Don’t Judge.
Rachel had minor tics throughout her childhood, but they were so small that they were hardly noticeable.
However, when she was 15 her condition suddenly worsened very rapidly.
“It was very scary”, Rachel’s dad said.
“The person we knew was literally gone.”
After receiving an official diagnosis from her doctor, Rachel said the whole world crashed around her.
Scots Tourette’s sufferer from famous BBC doc to be played by Netflix star
“I absolutely refused to go anywhere”, she said.
She stopped attending school so had to be homeschooled and hardly ever met up with friends.
“It was incredibly isolating for a very long time”, she said.
“I remember feeling like my entire life was over.”
The reality of living with Tourette’s syndrome
TOURETTE’S syndrome is a condition that causes a person to make involuntary sounds and movements called tics.
It usually starts during childhood, but the tics and other symptoms often improve after several years, and sometimes go away completely.
There’s no cure for Tourette’s, but treatment can help manage symptoms.
The most common physical tics include:
Blinking
Eye rolling
Grimacing
Shoulder shrugging
Jerking of the head or limbs
Jumping
Twirling
Touching objects and other people
Examples of vocal tics include:
Grunting
Throat clearing
Whistling
Coughing
Tongue clicking
Animal sounds
Saying random words and phrases
Repeating a sound, word or phrase
Swearing
Swearing is rare and only affects about 1 in 10 people with Tourette’s.
Some people can control their tics for a short time in certain social situations, like in a classroom.
But this can be tiring, and someone may have a sudden release of tics when they return home.
Aidy Smith, who was diagnosed with Tourette’s aged nine, said these are the most common misconceptions about the condition:
It is a ‘swearing disease’ characterised by repeated bad language
People with Tourette’s can’t succeed in the workplace
It’s impossible to control your tics
‘Tourette’s’ is a ‘dirty’ word
It’s OK to make jokes about the condition because it isn’t serious
Source: NHS and Aidy Smith
Thankfully, Rachel’s saviour came when she posted a video to TikTok, showing her ticking, and it quickly blew up.
The post was flooded with people asking comments about her condition, or revealing that they experienced the same thing.
“They were happy to see it in the media”, she said.
“I thought, oh my gosh, I can do something positive.”
Rachel is now a content creator, and makes videos to raise awareness about Tourette’s.
However, she receives a lot of hate comments, from people who don’t believe it’s real.
“When people say I’m faking my Tourette’s Syndrome, I feel invalidated”, she said.
“It’s a core part of who I am.”
Rachel added that she has also had trolls claiming she needs “an exorcist”, and has been “taken over by a parasite.”
Despite finding these comments hurtful, Rachel sees them as all the more reason to raise awareness about her condition.
She said: “All I have to say to those who have judged me because of my condition is I hope that they learn to not judge others so quickly when they see something or someone that they don’t quite understand.
“I believe that we should all embrace our differences. And I think that we should all be committed to being so beautifully and uniquely and truly ourselves.”
