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AN ELECTRICIAN heroically smashed his way into a burning home to help save two people from a fire which killed a mum and three of her children.

Victor Pedra heard a dad crying and screaming “my children, my wife, my whole family is in there” at around 1.15am on Saturday.

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He bravely ran towards the flames and broke a lower floor window to gain access to his neighbour’s house in Brent, west London.

The dad-of-two helped rescue a grandmother aged in her 70s, who has been released from hospital, and her teen granddaughter who remains in intensive care.

But a 43-year-old mum and her other three children aged 15, eight and four, all tragically died at the scene.

Victor, 33, said: “I heard the dad outside crying and screaming ‘my children, my wife, my whole family is in there’. He was in shock and couldn’t really speak.

“I had gone outside and saw people standing around watching these huge flames so I just knew I had to act. I cut my hand breaking the window.

“The grandmother and one of the daughters managed to get out safely. The only way they could escape was through the garden as the front door was blocked by the fire.

“The flames were so strong and there was smoke everywhere. I couldn’t get to the second floor where the mum and her youngest son was.

“I also had to wake up the people in the house next door before it caught fire as they were all sleeping and hadn’t realised.

“Firefighters managed to bring the mum and one of the sons out and attempted CPR for about an hour but it was no use.

“They also managed to bring the other son and eldest daughter out from the top floor but sadly it was too late for them. It was really tough to see.

“I couldn’t sleep that night as I just kept hearing the screams from inside the house.”

His partner Leticia Maria, 31, added: “I was speechless. One of the firefighters was my friend but I didn’t even recognise him from the shock.

“It all happened so quickly. The fire seemed to take hold instantly. It seemed like it started from the top down because it wasn’t as strong at the bottom.

“The little girl managed to escape and was covered in black stuff from the smoke. She looked about 12-years-old.

“No one knows what caused the fire but you could hear explosions like things were popping.

“All the children must have been sleeping at that time. It’s just such a tragedy.”

Brent councillor Tariq Dar MBE named Usman Ghani, known as Ozzy, as the man who lost his wife and three children in the tragic fire.

He wrote on Facebook: “It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of the wife and three beloved children—a daughter and two young sons—of Brother Usman Ghani in a tragic house fire in Wembley last night.

“Please remember the entire family in your heartfelt duas during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Met Police arrested a 41-year-old man who remains in custody on suspicion of murder.

Firefighters were supervising today while specialist workers secured the terraced home so detectives can investigate safely.

Six bouquets of flowers and a large blue teddy bear were left at the large police cordon surrounding the estate near Wembley Stadium.

A friend who knew the family well said: “It’s very sad. They were such loving and friendly people and will be dearly missed by everyone.

“Usman would always give me good advice. If something ran out like my milk or eggs, I would always go and borrow from them and it would never be a problem.

“He bought this house and worked very hard in a warehouse through an agency. He used to be a bus driver but had to stop due to health issues.

“The family are practising Muslims and were originally from Pakistan when Usman’s parents moved here over 25 years ago. His dad died a couple of years ago.

“I would always see the kids playing outside. It’s making me tear up thinking I will never see them again now the family is broken.

“They had just started half term and it makes me really sad thinking they won’t be going back to school.”

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FESTIVAL fans are being urged to go green on Glasgow Green this summer with more sustainable fashion choices.

Every year Brits throw away 300,000 tonnes of fabric waste, which ends up slowly decomposing in landfills.

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And to do their bit, the team behind TRNSMT is encouraging festival-goers to choose second hand style when it comes to their outfits.

Bosses are launching a Sustainable Festival Fashion Trail, which kicks off this weekend.

Tomorrow, TRNSMT will take over the Barras Market, Off The Rails at VEGA Glasgow and will pop up at vintage stores where shoppers can explore unique finds and festival picks curated by Scottish Stylist of the Year Victoria Lee.

The Glasgow-based preloved fashion fan said: “It is my job to encourage people to step away from fast fashion and choose more sustainable routes when it comes to topping up their wardrobes.”

Getting a look right for a festival can be tricky, especially in our unpredictable Scottish weather.

But what Victoria hopes is that music-lovers will avoid buying fast fashion items that get tossed aside once the party weekend is over in favour of vintage pieces that will last a lifetime.

Victoria, who ditched her own fast fashion business when she discovered the unethical roots of her on-sale items, said: “I love the uniqueness of it.

“When you’re shopping, you can have those unique pieces that other people aren’t wearing.

“You can really focus on your personal style. I think when you’re more slow and more intentional about what you buy, it pays off more in the end as well.”

While the average lifespan of an item of clothing is three years, many people who consume fast fashion find their clothing only lasts a few months.

But some of the preloved pieces in second hand and vintage stores have been worn for decades — and are still going strong.

Victoria said: “I think a lot of people panic buy for festivals and also we’ve become a little bit too accustomed to viewing our clothes as disposable.

“So the fashion trail encourages people to buy more staple pieces. The pieces in the collections will all be pieces that you can hopefully style around other things. Normal life, not just festivals.”

SUSTAINABLE STYLE

WE are self-confessed clothes addicts.

But, despite our love for all things fashion, choosing a fest outfit still foxes us — especially with our different ages and sizes.

In our YouTube series For Everybody, we test out outfits from the high street to see who is winning when it comes to being inclusive.

Katy is 34 and a size 18 while I’m a tummy-conscious size ten 45-year-old.
So could Victoria choose gorgeous, preloved festival outfits that rocked both of our worlds?

She scoured the rails at Glasgow’s West Vintage for two looks that could go from day to night at TRNSMT.

And she played a blinder.

For Katy, Victoria chose a flowy, brightly-coloured, tie-dyed maxi skirt paired with an over-sized sports T-shirt, all for just over £40.

For me, she chose a classic denim waistcoat and a layered white mini, with a handbag scarf for a pop of colour all for £50.

These pieces can be worn for years to come, making cost per wear a snip — music to our ears.

And her top tip for what to wear this summer? The style pro said: “I’d say the most fashionable thing you can do is just go with your own personal style and express yourself and who you are. Get those pieces that are staples that you’ll be able to wear again and again.”

On Sunday, the day will kick off at the Barras Market in Glasgow’s East End, where from 12pm fans can browse curated rails of pre-loved fashion, discover upcycled gems and get styling tips from sustainability champions.

From there, fans can head to Kings Court, stopping at vintage favourites including Mr Bens Retro Clothing, Minted and West Vintage for even more unique finds picked out by Victoria.

The day wraps up at VEGA Glasgow with a special festival edition of Off The Rails, a quarterly pop-up that celebrates independent brands.

There will be live performances by artists from this year’s BBC Introducing line-up and Radio 1 Dance Stage DJs at both The Barras and VEGA, bringing the festival buzz to the city.

There will also be the chance to win festival tickets to this summer’s Glasgow Green music extravaganza on July 11 to 13, with ten golden labels hidden along the trail as a reward for those who choose pre-loved summer festival outfits.

A TRNSMT Festival spokesman said: “Planning a festival outfit is a priority for so many fans. We wanted to create something that shows how sustainable fashion can still be exciting, creative, and fun, especially in a city like Glasgow that’s full of legendary vintage and second-hand options.”

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LOOKING for a new mattress? Great news – Emma’s May Bank Holiday sale is on, with eye-popping discounts you won’t want to miss!

Right now, savvy shoppers can snag up to 56% off Emma’s award-winning mattresses and sleep accessories – perfect timing if your current mattress is on its last legs.

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Get FREE products + an extra 5% off with code: THESUN

The sale covers all the fan favourites including the Original, Premium and Hybrid models, so there’s something for every sleep style and budget.

Even better – many purchases come with free sleep accessories depending on which bundle you choose. One standout deal includes complimentary bedding worth a whopping £337!

Emma Sleep mattress deals: at a glance

• Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress Small Double, £604.45 (was £1,099) – shop here
• Emma Hybrid Airgrid Mattress Double + FREE mattress protector, pillows, and duvet (worth £337) – shop here
• Emma Hybrid Thermosync Mattress + FREE mattress protector and pillows (worth £253) – shop here
• Emma Hybrid Premium Mattress + FREE pillows (worth £160) – shop here
• Emma One Foam Mattress, £259.74 (was £349) – shop here
• Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress, £787 (was £1,499) – shop here

And here’s an exclusive treat just for Sun readers – we’ve nabbed you an EXTRA 5% discount on top of these already massive savings.

Simply use code THESUN at checkout to boost your bargain even further!

Emma Sleep mattress deals for May Bank Holiday

Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress: 45% less

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Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress, £714.45
(was £1,200) + extra 5% off with code THESUN

What’s the deal: Emma is discontinuing this model so when current stocks are gone, they’re gone.

You’ll save yourself a massive £494.55 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £604.45 from the original £1,099.

Then add in our discount code THESUN at checkout to get an extra 5% off your order.

Why it’s a good buy: The single and double sizes have already sold out, but you can still get your hands on the small double, king size and super king versions.

Perfect for warmer sleepers, the Luxe Cooling uses special temperature-regulating technology to stop night sweats.

With over 100 reviews of this mattress to read online at Emma, customers particularly love how it helps them sleep through warm nights without constantly throwing off the covers.

Check out our guide to the best cooling mattresses for more tried-and-tested options.

Emma Hybrid Airgrid Mattress: FREE mattress protector, pillows, and duvet

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Emma Hybrid Airgrid Mattress Double, £1,008 + FREE mattress protector, pillows, and duvet worth £337

What’s the deal: Snap up a potential £337 saving on this premium double mattress bundle, which includes a free mattress protector, two premium cloud pillows, and Emma’s cloud duvet.

Then add in our discount code THESUN at checkout to get an extra 5% off your order.

Why it’s a good buy: The clever seven-layer design makes this perfect for hot sleepers who don’t want to compromise on support.

Its innovative AirGrid layer works overtime to disperse heat while the targeted 7-zone spring layer provides precise pressure relief exactly where your body needs it most.

We’re particularly impressed with the practical UltraDry cover that zips off for easy washing – keeping your sleeping space fresh with minimal maintenance.

For anyone dreaming of hotel-quality sleep with serious cooling tech, this premium hybrid delivers impressive results that justify the investment.

READ MORE:

Emma Hybrid Thermosync Mattress, £819 + FREE mattress protector and pillows

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Emma Hybrid Thermosync Mattress,
£819 + FREE mattress protector and pillows worth £253

What’s the deal: Save a whopping £253 on this temperature-regulating double mattress bundle, which includes a FREE mattress protector and pillow pair.

Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on top of these already impressive discounts.

Why it’s a good buy: Hot sleepers: this could be your perfect match.

The clever Thermosync combines graphite-infused layers to regulate your body temperature with seven targeted support zones that provide pressure relief exactly where you need it most.

Customers particularly love how it helps tackle back pain while preventing that dreaded night-time overheating – a combination that’s surprisingly rare in the mattress world.

The removable, washable cover is a game-changer for allergy sufferers too, making this a smart investment for better sleep whatever the season.

Emma Hybrid Premium Mattress, £569 + FREE pillows

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Emma Hybrid Premium Mattress,
£569 + FREE pillows worth £160

What’s the deal: You’ll save yourself £160 with this bundle deal, which includes two free pillows.

Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving.

Why it’s a good buy: The award-winning Hybrid Premium combines both pocket springs and memory foam across seven supportive zones – ideal if you suffer from aches and pains.

Reviewers particularly love how it keeps your spine perfectly aligned while relieving pressure on joints, hips and shoulders.

The clever design also allows air to flow through the mattress, keeping warmer sleepers cool throughout the night.

With Emma’s standard 200-night trial, you can test it thoroughly before committing – though most customers are sold after just a few nights of improved sleep.

Emma One Foam Mattress, £259.74 (was £349)

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Emma One Foam Mattress
£259.74 (was £349)

What’s the deal? Save a whopping £89.26 on this popular foam mattress – that’s over 25% off the regular price!

Why it’s a good buy: The award-winning Emma One combines three premium foam layers across seven ergonomic zones for perfect support that won’t break the bank.

Reviewers love its medium-firm feel that’s perfect for all sleeping positions – whether you’re a back, side or front sleeper.

The breathable, removable cover makes cleaning a breeze, while the foam construction helps minimize partner disturbance for undisturbed nights.

With free next-day delivery and Emma’s 200-night trial period, you can test this mattress thoroughly before committing – though, with hundreds of five-star reviews, we’re betting you’ll be sleeping soundly from night one!

Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress, £787 (was £1,499)

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Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress
£787 (was £1,499)

What’s the deal? Save a whopping £712 on Emma’s luxury mattress – that’s a massive 47% off the original price!

Why it’s a good buy: The premium Diamond Hybrid is Emma’s top-of-the-range mattress, combining the best of both worlds with plush memory foam and responsive pocket springs.

It’s got a special graphite-infused foam layer that actively regulates temperature – perfect for hot sleepers who wake up sweating during warmer months.

With seven ergonomic zones providing tailored support across your entire body, it’s ideal for couples and those suffering with back pain.

Emma sleep accessories and bedding deals

Emma Mattress Protector, £59 (was £145)

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Emma Mattress Protector
£59 (was £145)

What’s the deal? You can now nab the Emma Mattress Protector with a whopping 59% discount – down from £145 to just £59.

Why it’s a great buy: This isn’t just any old mattress protector – it’s a proper game-changer for your sleep setup.

The Emma protector is fully waterproof (perfect if you’ve got little ones or enjoy breakfast in bed) but doesn’t have that annoying crinkly feel of cheaper options.

It’s breathable too, meaning no more waking up sweaty in the night, and it’s designed to fit snugly around your mattress with elastic corners that don’t budge.

Machine washable at 60°C, it’s a doddle to keep clean – ideal for allergy sufferers who need to wash bedding regularly. At this price, it’s an absolute no-brainer for protecting your mattress investment!

Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow, £49 (was £115)

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Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow
£49 (was £115)

What’s the deal: You’ll save yourself £66 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £49 from the original £115.

Why it’s a good buy: Say goodbye to neck pain with these clever adjustable pillows that let you customise the height and firmness to match exactly how you sleep.

Perfect for couples with different preferences, the Premium Cloud features special Outlast thermal technology that regulates temperature throughout the night – keeping your head cool when it matters most.

The breathable, machine-washable design makes these pillows practical as well as comfortable, with reviewers particularly praising how they’ve helped reduce morning stiffness and improve sleep quality.

Head over to our guide to the best pillows for more options we’ve put to the test.

Emma Premium Mattress Topper, £321 + FREE mattress protector

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Emma Premium Mattress Topper, £321 + FREE mattress protector worth £93

What’s the deal: You’ll save yourself £93 with this bundle, which includes a FREE mattress protector.

Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on top of these already impressive discounts.

Why it’s a good buy: If you’re a hot sleeper who tosses and turns, this could be your perfect match.

The Thermosync combines seven zones of pocket springs with cooling technology to support different parts of your body.

Perfect for those with neck or back pain, the memory foam layers work with the springs to keep your spine aligned while regulating temperature all night long.

The removable, washable cover is a practical bonus that keeps your investment fresh for years to come.

Emma Cloud Duvet, £59 (was £135)

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Emma Cloud Duvet, £59 (was £135)

What’s the deal: Sleep like you’re floating on air with the aptly named Emma Cloud Duvet – now with a massive £76 price drop.

Why it’s a good buy: This clever bedding uses temperature-regulating technology to keep you perfectly comfortable all year round, making early morning wake-ups a thing of the past.

The secret is in the special microfibre filling that allows fresh air to flow through the duvet, preventing bacteria build-up while keeping you cool in summer and cosy when temperatures drop.

Light as a feather but seriously effective, this cloud-soft duvet from the sleep experts at Emma feels luxuriously soft to the touch – exactly what you want after a long day.

The practical side is sorted too. Spills and stains? No problem – the entire duvet is fully machine washable, meaning you can enjoy that fresh-bed feeling whenever you need it.

For hassle-free comfort that works year-round, this duvet is a no-brainer – especially with that impressive 56% discount.

Emma mattress FAQs

Are Emma mattresses any good?

For us at Sun Shopping, the answer to this question is a resounding yes.

Whether you opt for the economical Emma Original or the more luxurious Emma Premium mattress, we think you’re getting value for money and giving yourself the best chance of a good night’s sleep.

It is important to do your research to figure out exactly what specifications you need from a mattress.

In the Emma premium mattress review, our tester noted that “Having a high-quality mattress has truly levelled up my sleep game”.

This will help you buy one that’s right for your requirements and needs, and will hopefully ensure longevity and overall satisfaction.

Which Emma mattress is best?

The Emma NextGen Premium Mattress is a great all-rounder.

It has a combination of memory foam, springs and cooling technology, so ticks the boxes for anyone wanting the most bang for their buck.

That’s not to say we don’t love the Emma Original Mattress though, and the single version is ideal for children — check out our Emma Kids’ Single Mattress review to find out more.

Make sure you add the discount code THESUN for an extra 5% off any Emma deal.

Are Emma mattresses any good for side sleepers?

Emma doesn’t exclusively reference mattress technology specifically for side sleepers, however, the NextGen Cooling mattress does offer full body pressure relief and support.

The mattress has seven different pocket spring zones, which provide specific support to different areas of the body.

This particular Emma mattress has received plenty of positive reviews online.

Fans have shared their thoughts on the quality of the design and improved sleep, with one reviewer stating it has created an “optimum balance between support and comfort”.

Our own The Sun shopping tester, “who sleeps chaotically on all sides” also gave the mattress top marks in our best cooling mattress roundup.

What is the life expectancy of an Emma mattress?

Emma offers shoppers a 10-year guarantee on all its mattresses, a policy that starts as soon as you receive your mattress.

If you encounter any problems with your mattress, Emma’s customer service will assist you in resolving the issue including completely swapping out your faulty mattress for a new one.

A mattress is certainly an investment piece, so Emma customers can also make the most of the brand’s 200-day sleep trial.

It means you get enough time to really road-test your mattress in real life and decide if it works for you.

What is the firmness of an Emma mattress?

Emma’s mattresses are rated using a scale to explain how firm their mattresses are.

The firmness of Emma’s mattresses is the product of premium extra-tall springs aiding support and correct spinal alignment.

A majority of Emma mattresses are scored with a medium-firm rating, reviews suggest that the Simba Hybrid is firmer than Emma mattresses.

However, it is important to do your own research to find the mattress suitable for you.

If you do purchase an Emma mattress, you can trial it for up to 200 days to make sure it is right for you.

For further inspiration take a look at our top picks of the best mattress you can buy right now.

What are the disadvantages of the Emma mattress?

While Emma consistently ranks among the UK’s top mattress brands, there are some potential downsides worth considering before you commit.

First, several customers report that Emma mattresses tend to sleep warmer than advertised.

Despite the cooling technology, hot sleepers may find the heat retention problematic, particularly with the all-foam models.

The price point sits firmly in the premium category. Even with impressive discounts, you’re still looking at a significant investment compared to budget alternatives – though the quality generally justifies this.

Some users note a longer-than-average break-in period, with firmness levels feeling excessive during the first few weeks before the materials properly adjust to your body.

Reporting from Sacramento — Past efforts to repeal the death penalty in California have centered on moral or ethical objections. This year, proponents of Proposition 62, which would replace the punishment with life in prison without parole, are focusing on economics.

Prominent supporters of the measure have repeatedly pointed out that the state’s taxpayers have spent $5 billion on the executions of only 13 people in almost 40 years. Online ads have urged voters to end a costly system that “wastes” $150 million a year.

“Sometimes, something is so broken it just can’t be fixed,” a voiceover says in one commercial, as a blue-and-white china vase shatters to the ground.

“Let’s spend that money on programs that are proven to make us safer,” a crime victim pleads in another.

But as voters weigh two dueling death penalty measures on the Nov. 8 ballot — one to eliminate executions, another to speed them up — researchers are at odds over the actual costs and potential savings of each. Independent legislative analysts, meanwhile, believe Proposition 62 could save taxpayers millions, while concluding that the fiscal impact of Proposition 66’s attempt to expedite death sentences is unknown.

Death penalty cases are often the most expensive in the criminal justice system because the costs associated with capital punishment trials and the incarceration of death row offenders are vastly higher.

The expenses begin to accrue at the county level. Capital cases require two trials, one to decide the verdict and another the punishment. They require more attorneys, more investigators, more time and experts and a larger jury pool.

The costs grow as the state must pay to incarcerate inmates during a lengthy appeals process: The average cost of imprisoning an offender was about $47,000 per year in 2008-09, according to the nonpartisan state legislative analyst’s office. But housing a death row inmate can lead to an additional $50,000 to $90,000 per year, studies have found.

Paula Mitchell, a professor at Loyola Law School who is against the death penalty and has advised the Yes on Prop. 62 campaign, puts the cost of the entire death penalty system since 1978 at about $5 billion.

That figure, updated from data compiled in a 2011 report, includes 13 executions since the death penalty was reinstated through a 1978 ballot measure; it was suspended in 2006 because of legal challenges over injection protocols. The figure also includes the cost of trials, lengthy appeals and the housing of nearly 750 inmates on California’s death row.

The initial study estimated taxpayers spent $70 million per year on incarceration costs, $775 million on federal legal challenges to convictions, known as habeas corpus petitions, and $925 million on automatic appeals and initial legal challenges to death row cases.

Mitchell and other researchers said Proposition 62, which would retroactively apply life sentences to all death row defendants, would save the state most of that money.

“It is sort of a fantasy that this system is ever going to be cost efficient,” said Mitchell, who has been named the university’s executive director of the Project for the Innocent.

But proponents of Proposition 66 argue the system can be reformed. The ballot measure would designate trial courts to take on initial challenges to convictions and limit successive appeals to within five years of a death sentence. It also would require lawyers who don’t take capital cases to represent death row inmates in an attempt to expand the pool of available lawyers.

In an analysis for its proponents, Michael Genest, a former budget director for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, contends such changes would save taxpayers $30 million annually in the long run. Proposition 62, in comparison, would cost taxpayers more than $100 million due to this “lost opportunity” over a 10-year period.

But independent researchers with the legislative analyst’s office found plenty of factors could increase or reduce the chances of either ballot measure saving taxpayers money.

Overall, they found Proposition 62 was likely to reduce net state and county costs by roughly $150 million within a few years.

The actual number could be partially offset if, without the death penalty, offenders are less inclined to plead guilty in exchange for a lesser sentence in some murder cases. That could lead to more cases going to trial and higher court costs, according to the legislative analyst’s office.

Yet over time, the state could see lower prison expenses, even with a larger and older prison population, since the costs of housing and supervising death row inmates is much higher than paying for their medical bills, analysts said.

“If Prop. 62 goes into effect, they can be housed like life-without-parole inmates, some in single and some double cells,” legislative analyst Anita Lee said. “It would fall to [the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation] to do an evaluation of risks.”

Calculating the fiscal impact of Proposition 66 is much more complicated, the office found, as the measure leaves more open questions on implementation, such as how the state would staff up with additional private attorneys.

Silicon Valley is pouring millions into repealing California’s death penalty. Will it make a difference? »

Legislative analysts said the costs in the short term were likely to be higher, as the state would have to process hundreds of pending legal challenges within the new time limits. Just how much is unknown, but the actual number could be in the tens of millions of dollars annually for many years.

Also unknown, analysts said, is the proposition’s effect on the cost of each legal challenge. The limits on appeals and new deadlines could cut the expenses if they result in fewer, shorter legal filings that take less time and state resources to process.

But they could increase costs if additional layers of review are required for habeas corpus petitions, the initial legal challenges in criminal cases, and if more lawyers are needed.

Meanwhile, potential prison savings could reach tens of millions of dollars annually, depending on how the state changes the way it houses condemned inmates. Transferring male inmates to other prisons rather than housing them in single cells at San Quentin could lead to lower costs. But how much depends on how many the state can move.

Mitchell said it was “pretty much delusional” to expect Proposition 66 to ever save the state money. For that to happen, she said, California would have to execute “one person every week, 52 people a year for the next 15 years, assuming they are all guilty.”

But Kent Scheidegger, author of the proposition and legal director of the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation, argued the legislative office’s numbers were skewed, while security costs for dangerous inmates would likely have to remain just as high.

“They don’t become any less dangerous if you change their sentence from death row to life without parole,” he said.

[email protected]

@jazmineulloa

ALSO:

What happens if both death penalty measures are approved by voters on Nov. 8?

How ‘MASH’ actor Mike Farrell became a leading voice against the death penalty in California

In ‘No on 62, Yes on 66’ campaign ad, murder victim’s mother urges California voters to keep the death penalty

Updates on California politics

SHOPPING experts have revealed when is the ideal time to stock up on major garden essentials to make huge savings.

Three of the key items should be bought this month in order to make the biggest savings.

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Boffins at comparison site Idealo have done the hard work for us and worked out that shoppers could save £183.84 if they purchase a gazebo this month, rather than in November, when they are at its worst price.

One shopper recently bragged about picking up a “huge” gazebo from her local Morrisons for just £20.

May is also your month for hedge trimmer shopping and you could save £12.80 as opposed to buying in August as their most expensive month.

As most parents will know, tearing kids away from screens can sometimes be a challenge, making garden toys a lifeline in the summer months.

If you’re after something that will keep your little ones entertained for hours, what about the trusty pogo stick?

May is the best month to pick one up, creating a saving of £1.24 rather than in December.

For your other green-fingered needs, June has been officially crowned as the cheapest month of the year to buy garden bits in the UK, with the greatest deals on offer.

While June is ideal, buying garden goodies any time between the end of May and August is also promised to save you cash.

Idealo found that savings of up to £649 can be made by buying each item at the right time.

Katy Phillips, senior brand and communications manager at idealo tells The Sun: “Our data shows that a little patience can go a long way when it comes to saving money on garden essentials this year.

“Holding off until the right month could save shoppers hundreds of pounds on big-ticket items like sun loungers, tables and fire pits.

“We’d always recommend comparing prices across multiple retailers before committing to a purchase. With a bit of planning, and by using apps with tools like price alerts, you can enjoy your garden for less and make your money stretch further this summer.”

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How to save money on garden furniture

Opting to buy your new garden furniture or items on sale could save you a lot of money.

Most retailers start discounting garden items after summer and will run promotions over the winter, but be aware stock can be far more limited during this time.

Retailers will start reintroducing more to their garden ranges during spring and may run limited promotions over bank holidays, for example.

You are unlikely to get a great deal just before or in the height of summer, but some retailers offer mid-summer clearance sales to get rid of old stock, so keep an eye out.

Remember to always shop around when making a big purchase, as even if one store has a sale on, you may be able to get a better deal elsewhere.

You can use websites like Price Spy to compare the prices of items across multiple retailers and see how the prices have changed over time.

Remember, you may not need to buy you furniture – you could save a fortune by up-cycling old items instead.

Giving dirty pieces a good wash and a lick of fresh paint can make them look brand new.

You can also pick up perfectly good items second-hand.

Try platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay to see if anyone near you is getting rid of old items – you may even be able to pick them up for free.

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LOOKING to upgrade your mattress without breaking the bank this Bank Holiday?

Simba’s latest deals are delivering some seriously impressive savings, with up to £646 off across their innovative sleep range.

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Simba Sleep: bundle deals on all the brands’ mattresses

Known for combining cutting-edge technology with genuine comfort, the brand’s Bank Holiday offers include some bundle deals that sleep-deprived shoppers won’t want to miss.

It’s not just mattresses either – completely transform your bedroom setup with complimentary pillows, duvets and bedding included with many purchases.

From the original Hybrid that put Simba on the map to the premium Luxe and Ultra models, there’s something for every sleep preference and budget in this month’s promotion.

Whether you’re a dedicated side-sleeper, strictly back-only, or someone who rotates through multiple positions throughout the night, these mattresses are engineered to provide targeted support where you need it most.

Best Simba mattress deals this May Bank Holiday at a glance:

• Simba Hybrid Essential Mattress + FREE Pure
  Pillow (worth £60) or 2x Pure Pillows (worth £120) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress, £1,359.20 (was £1,699) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Mattress + 2x Hybrid Pillows (worth £218) – shop here
• Simba Cool Foam Single Mattress, was £209 (save 20% with code FURN20) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress + 2x FREE Hybrid Pillows & Mattress Cover (worth £387) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress + FREE pillow, duvet and mattress protector bundle (worth £646) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Kids Mattress, was £399 (now £339) – shop here
• Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress + FREE pillow, duvet and mattress protector bundle (worth £646) – shop here
• Simba Earth Source 2900 Wool Mattress, was £1,199 (now £239.80) – shop here

We have based prices on double-sized mattresses. 

The generous 200-night trial gives you plenty of time to ensure it’s the perfect fit before fully committing.

Don’t hang about though – these Bank Holiday offers are only around for a limited time, so if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your sleep setup, now’s your chance.

Simba deals this May Bank Holiday

Simba Hybrid Essential Mattress, £519.20 (was £649)

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Simba Hybrid Essential Mattress
£519.20 (was £649)

What’s the deal? Bag Simba’s wallet-friendly Hybrid Essential mattress for 20% less.

Why it’s a great buy: This British-made sleep upgrade combines cushiony comfort with proper support where your body needs it most.

For the eco-conscious, Simba offers recycling options when you’re eventually done with it – though with their 200-night trial and 10-year guarantee, that won’t be anytime soon.

Perfect for anyone wanting quality sleep tech without the premium price tag, especially with those complimentary pillows sweetening the deal.

Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress: save £99

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Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress
£1,599.95 (was £1,699)

What’s the deal? Simba is cutting almost £100 off its premium Hybrid Luxe mattress this May – bringing this luxury sleep upgrade to a slightly more accessible price point.

Why it’s a great buy: The Simba Hybrid Luxe is seriously impressive tech for anyone wanting to transform their sleep quality.

At an impressive 31cm deep with ten sophisticated layers, this mattress delivers a hotel-quality sleep experience every night.

It features an innovative triple-spring system – including two layers of Simba’s titanium Aerocoil springs for exceptional pressure relief, plus an additional layer of micro springs for targeted support.

The bamboo-wool top layer is particularly clever for temperature regulation, naturally wicking moisture and maintaining optimal sleeping conditions throughout the night.

What really distinguishes this mattress is the edge-to-edge SupportCore spring base that eliminates that annoying roll-off feeling and maximizes your usable sleeping surface.

With Simba’s generous 200-night trial period and comprehensive 10-year guarantee backing your purchase, this discount makes the Luxe a compelling option for anyone ready to invest in better sleep.

Simba Hybrid Mattress, £647.19 (was £799)

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Simba Hybrid Mattress
£647.19 (was £799)

What’s the deal? Snap up Simba’s original bestselling Hybrid mattress for £152 less this Bank Holiday.

This game-changing mattress packs innovative Aerocoil springs, an extra-deep layer of cooling Simbatex foam, and nine-zone support that’s specially designed to cushion shoulders and hips.

Why it’s a good buy: The original Hybrid has thousands of happy sleepers for good reason: it strikes that perfect balance between cloud-like comfort and tailored support.

Those nine body-aligned support zones are a godsend if you suffer from aches and pains, while the breathable design keeps hot sleepers cool all night.

Add the handy zip-off washable cover and the fact it’s British-made with a recycling option, and you’ve got yourself a great sleep enhancement that’s actually worth every penny.

Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress, £959.20 (was £1,199)

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Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress
£959.20 (was £1,199)

What’s the deal? Get Simba’s premium Hybrid Pro mattress and save as much as £240 on a double.

Why it’s a good buy: This luxury sleep setup features a natural wool top layer for temperature regulation, double spring layer with 4,800 titanium Aerocoil springs, and cooling Simbatex foam – all wrapped in a breathable ‘cool-touch’ Stratos cover that zips off for easy washing.

The Pro is Simba’s next-level mattress – that natural wool layer is a game-changer for hot sleepers, while the double spring system provides properly targeted support for achy joints.

The 100% edge-to-edge support means no more rolling off or sagging sides.

Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress, £1,342.21 (was £1,699)

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Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress
£1,342.21 (was £1,699)

What’s the deal? Splash out on Simba’s top-tier Hybrid Luxe mattress and save as much as £400 (Super King).

This luxury sleep setup features a wool/bamboo top layer for temperature control, THREE spring layers including micro springs, plus cooling Simbatex foam and edge-to-edge support that stops you rolling off in the night.

Why it’s a good buy: The Luxe is Simba’s ultimate sleep enhancement – that wool and bamboo combo is ideal for temperature-sensitive sleepers, while the triple-spring system provides seriously plush support that still keeps your spine aligned.

UK craftsmanship, fully recyclable, and engineered to last for years – this is the investment buy for anyone who’s done with budget mattresses and ready for the real deal.

Simba Hybrid Kids Mattress: save £60

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Simba Hybrid Kids Mattress
was £399 (now £339)

What’s the deal? This isn’t just a mini version of their adult mattresses – it’s specially designed with growing bodies in mind, making it worth considering if your little one is ready for a proper “big kid” bed.

Why it’s a good buy:

Kids do most of their growing while they sleep, so their mattress needs to support proper development.

This Hybrid mattress from Simba is designed with growing children in mind. Its Aerocoil Microsprings provide medium-firm orthopaedic support, keeping their spine aligned as they move during the night.

Beneath the springs, high-definition foam and a rigid foam base contour to their body, relieving joint pressure, while edge support ensures stability even if they sleep near the edge.

For children who overheat, the open-cell cooling foam, infused with graphite, helps regulate temperature, and the breathable surface improves airflow for a cleaner, allergy-friendly environment.

At £339, it’s an investment, but with its quality and longevity, it offers excellent value for supporting your child’s growth.

Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress, £2,183.22 (was £2,799)

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Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress
£2,183.22 (was £2,799)

What’s the deal? Splash out on Simba’s top-of-the-range Hybrid Ultra mattress and get 20% off.

This next-level sleep setup boasts Simba’s highest-ever spring count, double layer of Simbatex foam, innovative FusionCool top layer (blend of kapok, wool & bamboo), plus unique PureLift support from latex and coconut – all wrapped in a ‘cool-touch’ Stratos cover.

Why it’s a good buy: The Ultra is proper luxury territory – eleven separate layers combine for what Simba calls their most advanced mattress yet.

Hot sleepers will love the FusionCool technology, while the enhanced spring system delivers personalized contouring that’s perfect for chronic pain sufferers.

British-made quality that’s built to last for years – this is the ultimate investment for anyone serious about sorting their sleep once and for all.

Simba mattress FAQs

Where can I buy a Simba mattress?

The obvious place to buy a Simba mattress is directly from the official Simba website, which often features exclusive deals and promotions.

If you prefer to shop in-store or elsewhere online, major UK retailers like Argos, and Very also stock Simba mattresses – and will have their own deals and seasonal offers that are worth checking out.

Additionally, online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay carry Simba products, offering added convenience and quick delivery options.

Wherever you decide to shop for the best mattress deals, Simba mattresses is widely available – making it easy to find the perfect one for a great night’s sleep.

If you want to keep up to date with the latest deals and reviews, check out our Simba sleep page.

How much do Simba mattresses cost?

With prices starting from £599 (at its usual retail price) for the Simba Hybrid Mattress and going up to £3,299 for the super king Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress, Simba mattresses are not cheap – however, they compare to similar offerings from other bed-in-a-box companies.

What’s more, the brand regularly runs deals (we’ve rounded up some current deals, above), which can save money.

Simba also has an incredible reputation, with a whopping 250,000 five-star reviews.

If you’re after a cheaper way of upgrading your mattress, check out our Simba Hybrid Essential Topper review, which our tester says took her old mattress ‘to the next level.’

What is the bestselling Simba Mattress?

Simba’s bestselling mattress is the Hybrid Pro – a popular choice for its perfect blend of comfort, support and advanced sleep technology.

It combines five layers including Simba’s signature Aerocoil springs and cooling foam, which offer tailored support and temperature regulation.

Our writer Clara Wolsey put it to the test in our Simba Hybrid Pro Mattress review and raved: ‘It remains my favourite mattress that I’ve tested.’

She also rated it for its tailored support, adding: ‘Previously, my partner and I found it very difficult to roll over or get out of bed without waking one another up.

‘The Pro and its weight-distributing springs have practically eradicated this issue and finally made lie-ins a possibility – hurrah!’

Elsewhere, the Original Hybrid is also hugely popular, with half a million sold and 15 awards won.

Check out our Simba Hybrid Mattress review.

How long does a Simba mattress last?

Simba mattresses aren’t the cheapest options out there, so it’s worth knowing how long your investment will actually last.

While the company backs its products with a 10-year guarantee, the real-world lifespan depends on a few key factors that are worth understanding before you buy.

The good news is that Simba mattresses are genuinely built to last. Their hybrid models combine multiple layers of foam with innovative spring technology, creating a structure that holds its shape much better than traditional mattresses.

Most owners report their Simba mattresses maintaining good support and comfort for 7-10 years with proper care – significantly longer than cheaper foam-only alternatives that can start sagging after just 3-4 years.

To get the maximum lifespan from your Simba, make sure you rotate it regularly (every 3-4 months) and use a mattress protector to prevent stains and moisture damage.

Unlike some cheaper options, Simbas won’t need flipping as they’re designed to be one-sided, making maintenance simpler.

For the price point, Simba’s durability makes them a worthwhile long-term investment for quality sleep.

Are Simba mattresses good for bad backs?

Simba states that you should always seek professional medical advice when it comes to what’s best for your back, and we completely agree – especially if you’re having trouble sleeping.

However, Simba has received a flood of positive comments from sleepers who say their Simba mattress has helped them finally get a good night’s sleep after years of suffering from aches and pains.

The extremely light comfort spring layer is one of the technologies Simba added to help make your sleep as soothing as it can be.

And you shouldn’t feel poked in the back, as Simba claims that its springs are lighter and finer than standard hefty ones.

We’ve rounded up the best mattresses for back pain and included some options from Simba.

It’s also worth checking out our selection of the best memory foam mattresses, as memory foam is great for back pain.

Plus check out our Simba Hybrid Mattress review.

Are Simba refurbished mattresses any good?

Simba offers a range of refurbished mattresses and accessories that come with a reduced price tag – a great choice for anyone in need of a mattress on a smaller budget.

Don’t let the refurbished title fool you into thinking they’re of worse quality, though.

They’ll still provide you with award-winning, restorative sleep – just for a lower cost.

The refurbished items go through rigorous hand testing and inspection to ensure the product is still up to scratch and any part that fails the test is replaced completely.

Lastly, everything is deep cleaned by Simba to hospital standards, so it’s essentially as good as new.

What’s the difference between Simba and Emma?

Simba and Emma are both leading mattress brands in the UK, but they differ in construction and feel.

Reviews suggest that the Simba Hybrid is firmer than Emma mattresses.

However, although Simba mattresses are medium-firm, the squishy top layer makes them feel soft and comfortable to lie on before you feel the firmness underneath.

Obviously, it’s down to personal preference to a certain degree.

However, both Simba and Emma hybrid mattresses contain multiple layers, with foam and springs, and both are available in a range of sizes.

Plus, both offer a 200-night trial and 10-year guarantee on their mattresses.

Therefore, it’s really a case of doing your research to see which is likely to suit you best: from how firm the mattress is, to its cooling layers, materials and price.

Does Simba offer NHS discount?

Yes, Simba offers a 20% discount to all healthcare workers, including care and social workers.

Students, teachers and military personnel are also entitled to the discount.

To take advantage, all you need to do is visit the discounts page on the Simba website and enter some details to verify your eligibility (Simba says this usually takes about thirty seconds).

Once you’ve been verified, you’ll receive a code to use at checkout.

It’s a great way for NHS staff and other healthcare professionals to enjoy high-quality sleep products at a reduced price, as a thank you for their service.

On May 12, the United States and China announced that they are putting reciprocal tariffs on pause for 90 days. Some tariffs will be retained while trade negotiations continue, a joint statement said.

This is yet another reversal of the sweeping tariffs US President Donald Trump imposed in early April that destabilised the global economy and sent stock markets into freefall.

Although he claimed that his measures would make the US economy “boom”, it was clear from the start that they would not work. A trade war cannot improve the lot of American workers, nor bring back manufacturing into the country.

Now spooked by corporations slashing profit targets and reports of the US gross domestic product (GDP) shrinking, the Trump administration appears to be walking back on its strategy. But going back to economic liberalism under the guise of “stability” is not the right course of action.

The current global economic system, distorted by policies favouring the rich sustained over decades, has proven itself to be unsustainable. That is why we need a new world economic order that promotes inclusive and sustainable development across both the Global North and South and addresses global socioeconomic challenges.

The crisis of liberal globalisation

The troubles that economies around the world currently face are the result of policies the elites of the Global North imposed over the past 80 years.

In its original Keynesian vision, the economic order put forward by the Allied Powers after World War II aimed to combine trade, labour, and development best practices to foster inclusive growth. However, over the following few decades, corporate opposition in the US and Britain derailed this order, replacing it with a skewed system centred around the Global North’s chief economic instruments, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, both created in 1944.

In the 1970s, economic elites blamed rising inflation and stagnation not on temporary shocks like the oil crisis but on what they saw as excessive concessions to organised labour: government overspending, strong unions, and heavy regulation. Subsequently, they launched an institutional counter-revolution against the Keynesian model of power sharing and social compromise.

This counter-revolution took shape in the 1980s under US President Ronald Reagan and UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who aggressively pursued policies to restore corporate profitability. They slashed taxes on the wealthy, liberalised international capital flows that made it easier to relocate production to low-cost economies, deregulated the financial sector, weakened labour unions, and privatised public services. As a result, outsourcing of labour, tax evasion, real estate speculation, financialisation, and credit-fuelled bubbles became US corporations’ dominant ways of making profit.

In developing countries, the IMF, the World Bank and regional development banks pushed governments to cut public spending, privatise state-owned enterprises, remove trade barriers, and deregulate markets rapidly and with little regard for social consequences.

As a result, the 1980s and 90s became lost decades for many countries embracing globalisation through radical liberalisation. These policies triggered massive employment shocks, rising inequalities, skyrocketing debt and persistent financial turbulence from Mexico to Russia.

East Asian economies were the exceptions, as they learned to circumvent the straitjacket of liberal globalisation and joined the global economy on their own terms.

The biggest beneficiaries of this system were Western economic elites, as corporations profited from low-cost production abroad and domestic deregulation at home. The same cannot be said for Western workers, who faced stagnating real wages, eroded labour protections, and increasing economic insecurity under the pressure of competitiveness, relocation, and automation.

Illiberal economic policy is doomed to fail

For those of us who studied the post-war economic order, it was apparent that without correcting the pitfalls of liberal globalism, a nationalist, illiberal counter-revolution was coming. We saw its signs early on in Europe, where illiberal populists rose to prominence, gaining a foothold first in the periphery and then gradually scaling up to become Europe’s most disruptive force.

In the countries where they gained power, they pursued policies superficially resembling developmentalism. Yet, instead of achieving genuine structural transformation, they fostered oligarchies dominated by politically connected elites. Instead of development, they delivered rent-seeking and resource extraction without boosting productivity or innovation.

Trump’s economic policies follow a similar path of economic populism and nationalistic rhetoric. Just like illiberal economic policies failed in Europe, his tariffs were never going to magically reindustrialise the US or end working-class suffering.

If anything, tariffs – or now the threat of imposing them – will accelerate China’s competitive edge by pushing it to deepen domestic supply chains, foster regional cooperation, and reduce reliance on Western markets. In the US, the illiberal response will drag labour standards down, eroding real wages through inflation and propping up elites with artificial protections.

Furthermore, Trump has no real industrial policy, which renders his reactive trade measures completely ineffective. A genuine industrial policy would coordinate public investment, support targeted sectors, enforce labour standards, and channel technological change towards good jobs.

His predecessor, President Joe Biden, laid the foundations of such an industrial policy agenda in the Inflation Reduction and CHIPS acts. However, these programmes are now under attack from the Trump administration, and their remaining vestiges will not have a meaningful effect.

Without these pillars, workers are left exposed to economic shocks and excluded from the gains of growth, while the rhetoric of reindustrialisation becomes little more than a political performance.

The way forward

While Trump’s economic policies are unlikely to work, returning to economic liberalism will not resolve socioeconomic grievances either. Let us remember that past efforts to maintain this deeply flawed system at any cost backfired.

Following the 2008 global financial crisis, Western governments rescued big banks and allowed financial markets to return to business as usual. Meaningful reforms of the global economic architecture never materialised. Meanwhile, the living standards of working- and middle-class families from Germany to the US stagnated or declined as wages flatlined, housing prices soared, and economic insecurity deepened.

We cannot return to this dysfunction again. We need a new global economic order focused on multilateral governance, ecological sustainability, and human-centric development. Such progressive global multilateralism would mean governments coordinating not only on taxing multinational corporations and curbing tax havens but also on regulating capital flows, setting minimum labour and environmental standards, sharing green technologies, and jointly financing global public goods.

In this new economic order, the institutions of global economic governance would make space for developing and emerging countries to implement industrial policies and build stronger ties with public finance bodies to mobilise patient, sustainable capital. This cooperative approach would offer a practical alternative to liberal globalism by promoting accountable public investment and development-focused financial collaboration.

Parallel to the eco-social developmentalism in emerging economies, wealthy nations need to embrace a post-growth model gradually. This strategy prioritises wellbeing, ecological stability, and social equity over endless GDP expansion.

This means investing in care work, green infrastructure, and public services rather than chasing short-term profits or extractive growth. For mature economies, the goal should be shifting from growing more to distributing better and living within planetary limits. This would also allow more space for low- and middle-income countries to improve their living standards without overexploiting our limited shared natural resources.

With stronger cooperation between national and multilateral public finance institutions and better tools to tax and regulate corporations, governments could regain the capacity to create stable, well-paying jobs, strengthen organised labour, and tackle inequalities. This is the only way for American workers to regain the quality of life they aspire to.

Such progressive multilateralism would be a powerful long-term antidote against illiberal populism. Achieving this shift, however, requires building robust global and regional political coalitions to challenge entrenched corporate interests and counterbalance the existing liberal, capital-driven global framework.

The challenge is clear: not only to critique Trump’s destructive policies but to present a bold, coherent vision of industrial renewal, ecological sustainability, and global justice. The coming months will show whether anyone is prepared to lead that transformation.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

Holidaymakers should familiarise themselves with the three-digit number when travelling to Europe

Holidays offer the chance to relax and unwind. For most tourists, it’s an opportunity to get away from it all and forget about any worries back home. However, there’s an important number anyone visiting the European Union ought to memorise before entering ‘holiday mode’.

The three-digit number could be life-saving if you or someone is in danger. It is 112, otherwise known as the European emergency phone number. It’s available everywhere in the EU free of charge.

The European Emergency Number Association explains: “112 is the European emergency number, available free of charge, 24/7, anywhere in the European Union. Citizens can dial 112 to reach the emergency services, including the police, emergency medical services and the fire brigade.

“EENA believes that having a common emergency number everywhere in Europe is directly benefiting citizens and visitors.” It adds: “But, unfortunately, this potentially life-saving number is largely unknown.”

You can also find information about the European emergency phone number on the European Commission’s website. The website says: “You can call 112 from fixed and mobile phones to contact any emergency service: an ambulance, the fire brigade or the police.”

It continues: “A specially trained operator will answer any 112 call. The operator will either deal with the request directly or transfer the call to the most appropriate emergency service, depending on the national organisation of emergency services.”

Helpfully, the operators are often multilingual. The European Commission explains: “Operators in many countries can answer the calls not only in their national language, but also in English or French. If the caller does not know where he is, the operator will identify where the person making the call is physically located and will pass it to the emergency authorities so that these can help immediately.”

In many countries, you can dial 112 as well as national emergency numbers. However, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania and Sweden use 112 as their only national emergency number. 112 is also used in some countries outside the EU, such as Switzerland.

People should treat 112 as they would any other national emergency number. They should not use it for general information queries, weather reports, or traffic updates, which waste time and money. Hoax calls to emergency lines are a criminal offence in most countries.

The EENA offers advice for people dialling 112. It recommends that you stay calm; wait until the operator answers your call; state your name, what happened, who is involved and your location; follow the operator’s advice; and ring 112 again if something changes.

The EENA website adds: “Sometimes several people call 112 reporting the same emergency. In those cases, do not be surprised if the operator only asks you for additional information and ends the call. This is normal procedure to avoid repeated information, to free the phone line faster and to ensure a prompt answer to the next emergency call.”

TENS of thousands of fed-up energy customers have lodged official complaints – and have been handed compensation

Fresh figures from the Energy Ombudsman reveal that British Gas came out worst out of all energy companies in the UK.

The firm received 48 complaints per 100,000 domestic customers between October and December 2024 – the worst rate in the country.

With an estimated 7.5 million UK households on its books, that’s around 3,600 complaints officially accepted by the Ombudsman in just three months.

The stats reveal how many cases were accepted per 100,000 customers – giving a clearer picture of which firms are falling short.

Here’s how the rest stack up:

• Scottish Power – 27.8 complaints per 100K (approx. 1,390 cases, based on 5 million customers)
• EDF Energy – 26.6 per 100K (1,463 cases, 5.5 million customers)
• OVO Energy – 26.4 per 100K (1,056 cases, 4 million customers)
• Octopus Energy – 22.5 per 100K (1,643 cases, 7.3 million customers)
• E.ON Next – 21.2 per 100K (1,060 cases, 5 million customers)
• Utility Warehouse – 18.7 per 100K (187 cases, 1 million customers)
• Utilita – 11.1 per 100K (approx. 89 cases, 800,000 customers)

Utilita and Utility Warehouse were the best of the bunch, with the lowest complaint rates – while Octopus Energy continued its strong customer service record with a below-average rate.

These figures show how many complaints were accepted by the ombudsman after customers failed to get a resolution directly from their supplier.

All energy firms have been contacted for comment.

OVERALL COMPLAINTS FALL – BUT THOUSANDS STILL STRUGGLING

Across the board, the number of energy disputes accepted by the Energy Ombudsman fell by 24% in 2024, down to 92,938 cases from 122,829 the year before.

That’s a positive step – but complaints are still a third higher than in 2021, showing many customers are still getting a raw deal.

The most common problem? Billing issues, which made up 58% of all cases.

Top gripes included:

• Disputed gas or electricity usage
• Incorrect account balances
• Back-billing – with over 3,200 cases involving bills for energy used months or even years ago

CAN YOU CLAIM COMPENSATION?

If your energy firm hasn’t resolved your issue after eight weeks, or you’ve hit deadlock, you can raise it with the Energy Ombudsman – for free.

They can order suppliers to:

• Refund money
• Issue a written apology
• Pay compensation

HOW MUCH COULD YOU SAVE IF YOU SWITCH TO A FIXED TARIFF?

Will Owen, energy expert at Uswitch.com, told The Sun: “Energy prices are predicted to fall in the coming months with the new price cap, but there are bigger savings to be made by switching to a fixed tariff now.

“The average household on a standard variable tariff could currently save around £332 versus the April price cap by switching to a fixed deal.

“Energy prices continue to be volatile, with cost-of-living pressures still squeezing households despite falling inflation rates. 

“It only takes a few minutes to run a comparison and you may be surprised at how much you can save, compared to lingering on standard variable rates with your current supplier.”

MISSING OUT?

Shockingly, just 43% of customers are being properly signposted to the Ombudsman when they’re eligible – meaning thousands could be missing out on compensation.

Ed Dodman, chief ombudsman at Energy Ombudsman, said: “Our role is not just to fix problems – it’s to make the whole energy sector fairer and more transparent.

“While the fall in complaints is welcome, there’s still work to do. Every customer deserves to know their rights – and how to get the help they need.”

HOW TO COMPLAIN & GET WHAT YOU’RE OWED

1. Raise your issue directly with your energy supplier
2. If it’s unresolved after eight weeks, or you’ve reached deadlock, go to www.energyombudsman.org
3. You could get a refund, apology, or compensation – at no cost

TOP REASONS FOR COMPLAINTS

• Disputed meter readings
• Wrong balances
• Backdated bills
• Faulty smart meters
• Rubbish customer service

If your provider is one of the worst offenders, it might be time to make a switch and save – especially if you’ve been overcharged or ignored.

OTHER ENERGY FIRM FAILINGS

Ofgem has collected more than £400million in payments since 2020 through its compliance and enforcement activities, with the money used to help struggling households with their bills.

Back in September, OVO Energy was forced to pay out £378,512 to 1,395 customers over the historic failings.

Impacted customers received around £271 on average.

Ofgem found OVO took too long to address the almost 1,400 customer complaints, in some cases taking up to 18 months.

It also delayed actioning Energy Ombudsman decisions when complaints were upheld, Ofgem said at the time.

E.ON Next was also ordered by Ofgem last June to pay £5million to customers who suffered poor customer service.

The regulator said a review of the firm’s customer service standards and complaints-handling across the sector uncovered “severe weaknesses”, with customers facing long call waiting times and a high level of unanswered calls.

More than 500,000 customers were potentially affected, according to Ofgem.

The month before, Ofgem ordered Good Energy and OVO to pay out £2.7million to thousands of customers who were overcharged.

HOW DO I COMPLAIN ABOUT MY ENERGY SUPPLIER?

Similar to financial services firms, energy companies have to have a complaints procedure for customers to follow.

When you make a complaint, make sure you follow this so they have the information they need to resolve the issue.

Simply explain what the problem is and what you want your supplier to do about it.

Check your energy supplier’s website for an explanation of how to launch a complaint.

Energy suppliers have eight weeks to respond and come to a decision.

If it doesn’t or you’re not happy with the response, you can take the firm to the Energy Ombudsman.

The Energy Ombudsman may be able to help if you have a complaint about an energy or communications provider.

Before you can submit your complaint to it, you must have logged a formal complaint with your provider and worked with the firm to resolve it.

You must also have received a so-called deadlock letter, where the provider refers your complaint to the Energy Ombudsman.

You can also complain if you haven’t had a satisfactory solution to your problem within eight weeks.

The Energy Ombudsman then bases its decision on the evidence you and the company submit.

If you choose to accept its decision, your supplier then has 28 days to comply.

The Ombudsman’s decisions are binding on the energy company.

If your supplier refuses to follow the instruction, the Ombudsman may get in touch with Ofgem to remedy the situation – but there’s no set period for escalating issues to the regulator and it’s not up to the customer.

If an individual chooses not to accept the Ombudsman’s final decision, they lose the right to the resolution offer.

Customers still have the right to take their complaint further through the courts.

But remember this can be a costly and lengthy exercise, so it’s worth thinking carefully before taking this step.