London, United Kingdom – “It’s magical,” says biology teacher Muneera Alfadhel from under her umbrella.
In fact, it is a characteristically rainy, grey day in London, but the weather is doing nothing to dampen her mood. She is among the first to walk down the middle of the iconic Oxford Street following its pedestrianisation.
For generations, shoppers have bustled along Oxford Street next to bikes, cars, black cabs and red double-decker buses. But on Monday, from Great Portland Street to Orchard Street, the road is now a pedestrian-only zone.
On Monday morning, by force of habit, most pedestrians are still sticking to the pavement. Mark Arbouine, a forensic scientist out for a stroll, is one of the few breaking ranks: “I saw there was no traffic today, so I thought, why not walk in the middle of the street and take advantage of it? I just think it’s great for the environment, great for shopping. It’s just so much easier to move around the street.”
This tiny strip of real estate is big business: about 1 percent of the UK’s annual gross domestic product (GDP) is generated along this 1km (0.6 miles) stretch of street. But despite its outsized importance, Oxford Street has in recent decades been hit by lower consumer spending, as well as falling rents and footfall, which is now just 57 percent of what it was in 2006, according to New West End Company, a retail trade body.
The Greater London Authority, also known as City Hall, believes pedestrianisation could, therefore, offer a lifeline.
City Hall analysis suggests the partial pedestrianisation of Oxford Street could generate more than $109m per year and support an additional 700 jobs. Following a weekend trial in October 2025, two-thirds of businesses in the area said they had higher or similar sales figures during the pedestrianisation.
This is the first step in a multi-phase regeneration project to add two public squares, 50 trees and hundreds of public seating.
Barbara Stoll, a leading campaigner on the benefits of greener, more walkable cities, was smiling as she observed the street. The air already feels cleaner, she noted.
“It’s amazing coming here this morning. Walking down the street, it was already so uplifting that the noise is considerably lower,” she said. “People are excited. I saw people coming up from the tube and looking around. Seeing that, it’s almost like children when it’s Christmas Day.
“So I think it’s absolutely wonderful, and so needed for London.”
Residents ‘haven’t really been listened to’
On Saturday, ahead of the change, not all shoppers were convinced. A French tourist said he would avoid Oxford Street altogether if buses and cabs were no longer allowed through.
“People with disabilities who cannot walk a lot – that would be really helpful if the buses move on and they don’t discontinue [them],” a shopper told Al Jazeera.
“It would be good. Sometimes you’re tired; sometimes it’s raining.”
The pedestrianisation of Oxford Street has been years in the making, and not without controversy.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan first tried it in 2017, following a manifesto pledge. But the plan fell apart in 2018, when Westminster Council – the local government authority responsible for Oxford Street at the time – withdrew its backing, saying residents did not support it.
Following a public consultation, Khan created the Oxford Street Development Corporation, taking responsibility for the street away from local officials and transferring it to the Greater London Authority and Transport for London.
With this second, successful attempt at pedestrianisation, doubts from local authorities have not gone away.
Residents are not being listened to, said Councillor Tim Barnes, the deputy leader and cabinet member for growth and planning for the City of Westminster.
“There has been a communication process with residents, but it’s been pretty much one way. Mostly, they are being told what’s going to happen to them and how it’s going to happen; what the format of the process is going to be in future. But realistically, those who know the street best haven’t really been listened to.”
He believes the economic benefits are overstated and do not consider the impact of displacing bus routes from a major road to the surrounding, smaller streets. That fear is shared by resident Nerma Cridge, who said London’s West End will become “completely unliveable, too crowded and too noisy at night”.
“We think all of this should be done in a much more productive relationship with communities,” she told Al Jazeera over the phone.
‘People just take back the space’
Concerns over the change will fade once residents see the real-world results in the coming months, Stoll believes.
“Examples from across Europe and the world, where such projects have already happened, prove that this only makes life better overall for local residents,” she said.
“Retail gets a boost. More people linger, more people come to the street, more people spend money in the shops, and even local shop vacancies reduce. The local air pollution significantly reduces, and as activity increases, people just take back the space.”
The Oxford Street Development Corporation will be testing and reviewing the results of the pedestrianisation in the coming months, and reviewing its findings early next year. Transitioning the rest of Oxford Street into a permanent, traffic-free public space is expected to go ahead by the end of next year.
Ahead of mayoral elections in 2028, the pedestrianisation could be one of the last major initiatives that Sadiq Khan signs off. A landmark project that will also become his legacy.
Coronation Street fans are concerned that little Dorin, the son of Tyrone Dobbs, may have been hurt by someone else after he claimed he was punched by his friend Aled
21:06, 26 Oct 2026Updated 21:06, 26 Oct 2026
Coronation Street fans are concerned that little Dorin, the son of Tyrone Dobbs, may have been hurt by someone(Image: ITV)
Fans of Coronation Street fear Dorin is covering for whoever really hurt him.
The little boy had a bruise on his arm, leaving his dad Tyrone Dobbs and stepmother Fiz Dobbs concerned. Dorin claimed that fellow youngster Aled, the young nephew of Fiz, had punched him.
He claimed that Aled hurt him and that was what caused the bruise. Dorin’s grandfather Ross Wilkes was furious, and told his son Tyrone he needed to go round to Aled’s parents house and confront them.
Amid the drama between the family and Ross’ keenness for violence, one theory suggested Dorin might be covering for someone. Some fans questioned if Aled really hurt Dorin, or if someone else did in a sickening twist.
Given Ross’ misogynistic beliefs and comments, and him telling son Tyrone to “man up”, he’s been pushing for Tyrone and Dorin to take up boxing. Ross clearly believes his son is weak, so some fans wondered if Ross may have hurt Dorin to set up Aled, in order to get Tyrone to take action.
A fan said: “Did Ross hurt Dorin and tell him to say Aled done it? I wouldn’t put it past him, that man is a piece of work.” Another fan agreed: “If anyone’s gonna get Dorin harmed it’s Rancid Ross.”
A third fan said: “Not going to end well here with Ross and Tyrone in Corrie storyline come up.” A fourth added: “Ross is a conniving and nasty bully, wake up snd smell the coffee Tyrone.”
Another fan posted: “Tyrone is slowly becoming Ross, because of his manipulation.” A final commented read: “Ross is a nasty piece of work and isn’t a good influence for Tyrone.”
It comes as fans feared that Ross could turn violent against Tyrone. A fan posted: “He hates Tyrone’s son so trying to hurt him,” so could a random revenge plot be at play? The other theory read: “Ross going to beat up Tyrone?”
Fans also think a character, not currently on the show, will return to take Ross down, either Tyrone’s missing mother, Ross’ ex, Cassie Plummer [Claire Sweeney], or Cassie’s mother Evelyn [Dame Maureen Lipman ]. A fan posted: “Cassie will come back and save the day.”
Another fan posted: “Bring Evelyn back to get rid of him!!” as a third agreed: “I agree, Evelyn won’t stand for his nonsense.” So will someone see through Ross’ behaviour, and could it lead to him finally being put in his place?
CYCLISTS have been seen brazenly ignoring Sadiq Khan’s ‘pedestrian-only’ zone on Oxford Street just hours after the ban came into force.
As of today a one-kilometre stretch of the world-famous London street is now free from cars and buses prior to being fully pedestrianised.
Cyclist riding on a pavement, as pedestrianisation of Oxford Street commencesCredit: LNPSecurity guards were seen trying to get cyclists to funnel aroundCredit: LNP
The entire section between Selfridges near the Marble Arch end and Great Portland Street (including Oxford Circus) is the first to be impacted – with the festive period just around the corner.
Transport for London (TFL) has confirmed that e-bikes, pedal bikes, and e-scooters will no longer be allowed to go through the area but instead will be funnelled to surrounding routes.
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However, cyclists were filmed whizzing through the green bollards installed just last night and designed to stop traffic.
A team of security guards was seen trying to wave down commuters, delivery drivers and e-bike renters and get them to dismount.
Cyclists ignore newly pedestrianised Oxford Street just hours after the ban was introducedCredit: BBC LondonSigns tell cyclists that they have to dismount and walk their bikeCredit: GettyOxford Street in central London the day before it was pedestrianisedCredit: Alamy Live News.Cars, buses, taxis and bicycles can no longer travel along much of Oxford Street
One member of the public said it was “absolutely pandemonium” last night as buses kept coming up to the new obstructive bollards.
The road will be closed to all traffic between 7am and midnight every day of the week.
Exceptions have been made for deliveries, which can be made from midnight to 7am, and for emergency vehicles – which retain access at all times.
But many Londoners have bemoaned the fact that the surrounding area will be gridlocked due to the changes.
As the busy festive period gets underway, others have voiced their concerns over how shoppers will carry their hauls in the lead up to Christmas.
One local councillor described the plan as a “disaster for local people” – and accused London Mayor Sadiq Khan of pushing it through to meet an “arbitrary deadline”.
Cllr Tim Barnes, Westminster City Council Deputy Leader, said: “We’re extremely disappointed that MHCLG have ignored legitimate concerns about the impact this scheme will have on central London.
“London deserves a world class shopping district but I’m worried we’re heading for an unmanaged mess.”
Oxford Street is closed to traffic from this morningBritain’s busiest high street will no longer be the sameCredit: Alamy
He added: “It’s going to be very difficult for people with accessibility issues to get to the street. There is no step free access from Oxford Circus Tube.”
The technology is expected to be installed in December, just in time for the busy festive shopping period.
Today’s pedestrianisation of this stretch of road has repeatedly been described as the “first phase” – but it has faced criticism.
Sean Lane, 43, a cabbie for ten years driving down Oxford Street, said he was particularly concerned about disabled passengers and parents with prams.
He told The Times: “It’s gonna create gridlock. I just can’t understand it. You can see how wide the pavements are.
“There’s more than enough room for everybody. Even if you made it one lane, a one-way road, at least we can come along.”
Paul Fisher, a Conservative Westminster councillor, fears for the postcard view of the high street during the Christmas period but also on a year-round basis.
He said: “Why do people go to Oxford Street? They don’t just go to shop, they go for the experience, for the iconic buses and taxis.
“Many tourists shop on Oxford Street because of the iconic view you get … that vision will be lost forever.”
Traffic can still flow north and south along Regent Street at the Oxford Circus junction.
Pedestrians can cross at the junction and the plan is for traffic signals to be re-phased for the changes.
Traffic can also cross the pedestrianised zone on these four other routes: Duke Street (northbound), Davies Street/Stratford Place (both directions for local access), Vere Street/New Bond Street (southbound only) and Holles Street (northbound only).
Private cars have been barred for years but now all motorised traffic, including buses and black cabs, as well as bicycles, will be kept away.
London Mayor Khan has hailed the move as “a truly momentous occasion for the capital“.
The pedestrianisation of Oxford Street has been tried for years but remains controversial.
And although the traffic may have been stopped, the initial works scheme is not expected to be completed until spring next year.
The closure is part of a £150m phased plan to revive the area with “mini parks” and more than 50 trees, benches, lighting and public art.
It is hoped the plans will encourage bars and restaurants to move in alongside the shops to create a feel similar to the Rue de Rivoli in Paris or La Rambla in Barcelona.
Coronation Street’s Debbie Webster and Ronnie Bailey faced a split on Friday night, as the pair clashed amid Debbie deteriorating following her dementia diagnosis on the soap
Coronation Street’s Debbie Webster and Ronnie Bailey faced a split on Friday night(Image: ITV)
Fans of Coronation Street were left fearing for a popular couple after Friday’s episode of the ITV soap. Debbie Webster’s out-of-character behaviour continued, and it put pressure on her relationship with her husband Ronnie Bailey. Debbie has dementia, and recently she’s deteriorated hugely.
She’s starting to struggle with recognising people she knows well, and has even called Ronnie the wrong name. Making mistakes at work has also added to the strain, and she has moments where she forgets things have happened.
Ronnie shared his concerns this week about being intimate with his wife, in case she forgot who he was. Things worsened on Friday after drama with a bride and groom at the hotel.
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Events led to Debbie and Ronnie rowing at home, and Ronnie admitted she wasn’t the woman he had fallen in love with. Struggling to care for Debbie and to deal with her condition, Ronnie claimed Debbie was close to throwing herself at another man.
Calling her “so random”, he admitted he didn’t know what she was going to do next. It’s then that he left Debbie heartbroken by his comment about her not being the woman he loved, and she kicked him out of the house.
As Ronnie left, a broken Debbie burst into tears, reeling that her marriage might be in crisis. But will Ronnie’s comment lead to Debbie ending things? Will Ronnie struggle to be with Debbie going forward, and could this lead to a devastating split for them?
Fans were heartbroken by the scenes, with one writing: “I truly feel for both Debbie and Ronnie. Of course you want your partner to desire you, but when you become someone’s caretaker that kinda gets pushed to the back burner.”
Another said: “Debbie breaking my heart in today’s episode. Sue is incredible.” A third viewer posted: “Wish they’d give Debbie some good times. Life’s tough enough for her and Ronnie. Give her a break writers.”
A final fan said: “I think it’s only just begun and the heartbreak to come will be deserving of an award from all involved and especially Sue Devaney.” It comes following the show announcing that former character Owen Armstrong is returning after a decade away.
Actor Ian Puleston-Davies is reprising his role, and there’s set to be trouble for Gary Windass. Owen decides to move back to the Cobbles to live with his daughter Izzy Armstrong, amid trouble with Owen’s young grandson Jake.
His scenes won’t air until January 2027, but actor Ian is back filming very soon. After nearly 11 years, Owen returns to the Street, and it’s said he is far from impressed by Gary’s behaviour of late.
Blaming Gary for Izzy and Jake’s own drama, it’s been teased Owen’s comeback could spell trouble for Gary’s business at the builders yard. Commenting on his return after his exit in 2015, Ian said: “I can’t wait to pick up where I left off ten years ago! It’s brilliant to be back and to get stuck into a cracking storyline. Owen’s back and he’s still angry!”
Even as recently as a decade ago, Las Vegas hotel concierges and plenty of locals would have described the gap between the Strip and Fremont Street as something of a dead zone. This was a ragged corridor of old warehouses and auto shops, with more boarded-up storefronts than open doors.
“You couldn’t park your car and not worry,” remembers artist Gem Jaxx, who moved to Vegas in 2006 from Monterey County, Calif. “You couldn’t even walk the streets.”
Yet the idea of an arts district had been taking shape since the early ’90s, when the city identified an 18-block area south of downtown as ripe for creative development. Loosely framed by Hoover Avenue to the north and Colorado Avenue to the south, with Commerce Street and Fourth Street marking its west and east edges, this region became known as the 18b Arts District. First Friday, launched by a small group of artists and gallery owners in 2002, started pulling crowds into the neighborhood. Sometimes tens of thousands at a time, if only once a month.
The regular influx of visitors (combined with cheap rents and plenty of retail space) drew a wave of interesting tenants: antique dealers, secondhand clothing boutiques, microbreweries, cocktail bars. As the mix of businesses grew, 18b began to matter less as a set of boundaries and more as an identity.
“Very quickly it changed,” says Josh Kellman, president of the Arts District board. “Businesses here were saying, ‘Hey, I want to be in 18b.’ No one wants to feel like they’re outside the neighborhood.”
Today, the Las Vegas Arts District is a low-key alternative to the Strip for dining, drinks, art, shopping and beyond. Centered on Main Street, but with plenty to explore on neighboring Commerce Street and Casino Center Boulevard, it’s easy to spend an afternoon browsing vintage shops and gallery spaces, catch live music or a stage show, grab dinner, coffee and craft beer — and still have money left for tomorrow.
But the neighborhood is at a crossroads. After a tragic shooting happened earlier this month during First Friday, the monthly arts festival is now on hold as organizers and city officials consider how to move forward. Meanwhile, a proposed Business Improvement District intended to fund additional safety measures and neighborhood services has stirred debate over how to improve the area while preserving the independent spirit that made it a destination in the first place.
As questions swirl, fans of the Arts District hope it holds on to what makes it such a distinctive place. At a time when Las Vegas can feel increasingly engineered around sky-high bottle service, celebrity-chef tasting menus and cocktails edging toward $30, the neighborhood remains one of the places locals actually hang out and where tourists can experience Sin City beyond the slot machines. Here are 11 worthwhile stops on a visit to the creative hub.
Albanian lawmakers have scuffled in parliament, throwing objects at one another and ripping microphones from desks. The chaos follows months of daily street protests, first over corruption, and now over schooling conditions.
Experts warn Bank of America’s hefty AML fine signals a reckoning for aging banking compliance.
When Bank of America released third-quarter financials on Oct. 14, shareholders took note of a $1.2 billion non-tax-deductible blow to earnings. The anti-money laundering, or AML, and sanctions penalty shaved 17 cents off its per-share net income.
But the fine itself may be the least of the bank’s worries.
Financial crime and AML experts told Global Finance that this penalty was not an outlier but a warning to the rest of the industry.
“If you looked at every bank in detail, you’d find problems,” ThetaRay CEO Brad Levy said in an interview. “It’s kind of like every house — when the inspector comes, there’s something wrong.”
What Happened
The Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) addressed the penalty. The segment cited Bank of America’s “failure to mitigate and report priority national security risks, including Chinese Money Laundering Networks and illicit finance along the southwest border.”
The fine is the third-largest in the department’s history, behind a roughly $4 billion settlement with Binance in 2023 and an approximately $3 billion settlement with TD Bank in 2024.
This particular cost includes $750 million that goes to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency — the largest fine that regulator has ever imposed— plus $11.6 million to the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control over apparent violations of sanctions programs covering Iran, Russia, narcotics and global terrorism.
A Bank of America spokesperson issued the following statement to Global Finance: “Financial crime compliance is serious, and we are responsible for getting it right. We worked with regulators to reach these penalty resolutions stemming from violations cited in the previously reported 2024 OCC Consent Order and FinCEN’s investigation. We have invested billions of dollars in technology and dedicated thousands of employees to combat financial crime, and our team is far along with and committed to completing the work required to address the issues raised by our regulators.”
Fallout Extends Beyond Government Agencies
For Nikhil Raghuveera, CEO of Predicate, a startup that uses blockchain technology for AML enforcement, the real government-inflicted damage is not to Bank of America’s coffers but to its goodwill.
“The bank faces business and reputational damage with counterparties,” Raghuveera said. Partner institutions, clearing banks, and corporate clients typically tighten their own risk thresholds to protect themselves from secondary liability and run their own risk assessments. And a Bank Secrecy Act violation feeds directly into them, he explained.
“A large bank doesn’t lose its ability to operate, but it does face greater scrutiny and the potential loss of business opportunities,” Raghuveera added. “The regulator now sees the bank as unable to fix things itself. As a result, every new product or expansion gets reviewed through that lens.”
Regulatory Trust Broken
The hefty fine grabbed headlines, but according to Will Lawrence, CEO of San Francisco-based AML software maker Bretton AI Inc., the money matters less than what the bank has lost in regulatory trust.
Will Lawrence, Bretton AI
“For a large bank, even a significant financial penalty may be manageable,” Lawrence said in an email. “What’s much harder is operating once regulators lose confidence in the institution’s ability to manage risk.”
That can mean independent monitoring, more board scrutiny and limits on growth.
“Even without formal restrictions on growth or acquisitions, unresolved compliance issues can complicate a bank’s expansion plans,” he said. “The financial penalty may be immediate, but remediation can take years.”
Big-name banks are also vulnerable if their methods for flagging suspicious activity remain outdated.
For example, when a typical analyst pulls data from different systems, reconstructs transactions, and documents the findings, that approach often falls short against sophisticated laundering networks, Lawrence explained.
“These are not necessarily risks you can understand by looking at one transaction or one customer in isolation,” he said. “You need to connect activity across accounts, counterparties and payment channels to identify broader patterns.”
Large penalties are rarely a one-time blip, Raghuveera said. “They tend to reflect patterns: transaction monitoring that’s poorly calibrated, SARs filed late or not at all, watchlists that aren’t kept current, and compliance teams lacking the staff, tools or authority to escalate.”
24/7 Reality Check
For Lawrence, true accountability raises certain questions: Who knew about the risks? Who had the authority to address them? Was appropriate action taken?
“A bank can have sophisticated monitoring systems, but if serious issues aren’t escalated or leadership doesn’t respond, the program isn’t working,” he added.
Also, Lawrence said, a bank can’t spend its way out of the problem. Regulators want evidence that changes are working, not just new policies or software.
“A bank can hire more analysts, purchase new technology, and rewrite its policies without fundamentally improving its ability to identify financial crime,” Lawrence said. Banks have also long tracked activity counts, such as the number of alerts reviewed or cases closed. “Those numbers tell you something about workload, but not necessarily whether you’re managing risk effectively.”
Levy, who spent nearly 20 years at Goldman Sachs before joining ThetaRay, expressed a similar sentiment. To put it plainly, legacy technology hasn’t kept pace.
“Most of these systems and processes are 10 to 30 years old,” he said, stressing the need for serious internal audits to accommodate the 24/7 banking world.
“Ten years ago, you could get away with it,” he said. “In the next five, you actually can’t… the speed-up in technology is going to be breathtaking.”
Anthony Noto covers corporate finance and private credit. Contact him at anoto@gfmag.com
Coronation Street’s Sarah Platt received a verdict in her murder trial in Monday night’s episode and fans were certainly divided by the trial outcome.
20:40, 19 Oct 2026Updated 20:40, 19 Oct 2026
Sarah Platt was found not guilty of murder in Monday night’s episode of Coronation Street
Coronation Street’s Sarah Platt was found not guilty of murder in Monday night’s episode of the ITV soap.
The legendary character, who has been played by Tina O’Brien since 1999, had spent time in prison awaiting trial after hitting evil Theo Silverton (James Cartwright) over the head with a metal pole. She has claimed that it was all in self-defence.
Sarah was sent back to her cell to wait, and the jury reached a verdict remarkably quickly – something which did not fill the Platts with hope. To everyone’s great surprise, Sarah was found not guilty and her family cheered as she learned she was free to go.
Sarah rushed to hug her daughter Bethany (Lucy Fallon), and David was straight on the phone to mum Gail, who now lives in France, to tell her the good news. Soon enough, Bethany was back at home reunited with her young son Harry and ex-boyfriend DC Kit Green who had taken on caregiver duties whilst she was inside.
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She proclaimed: ” I feel like I’m the luckiest person in the world to be back with you all again,” unaware that daughter Bethany recently had a fling with the man who was almost her stepdad and is now pregnant. Later on, Bethany was seen preparing to call an abortion clinic.
Whilst on their own, Sarah decided to have a heart-to-heart with Kit, who has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, and asked him for a chance to reunite. He said things were “different” now but insisted it wasn’t about his illness.
He told her: “Things are different now. We can’t. It’s about not being what I want. Just because you’re out, nothing’s changed. Stop it. Too much has happened,” and announced that he would be moving in with his long-lost mum Bernie Winter.
Taken aback by his sudden rejection, and unaware of what is really causing it, Sarah broke down in tears on the sofa.
During her time on the soap, Sarah was famously central to a teenage pregnancy storyline in 2000, was then kidnapped by an internet predator before her stepdad turned out to be a serial killer. She initially left the soap in 2007 but following her return in 2015, Sarah has helped cover up the death of her abusive ex-partner Callum Logan and then had to deal with her uncle Stephen Reid, who also turned out to be a serial killer.
Sarah’s not guilty verdict certainly caused divide amongst fans, with one fan writing on Reddit: “Anyone else disappointed by the verdict?
“Murder probably not but I don’t think Sarah deserves to get off scot free, end of the day Theo never actually touched her, we all know he probably would have, but it’s hard to defend a self defence claim when you haven’t been touched, especially when she tried to hide it, let someone else get charged etc. very least should be involuntary manslaughter and perverting the course of justice. Real world she’s never getting off with nothing.”
Another said: “I’m not disappointed Sarah got off. She’s one of my all time favorite characters,” and a third wrote: “Did anybody except anything else? She’s one of the main cast members. They weren’t going to find her guilty anyway. She has plot armour.”
This charming seaside village is just as beautiful in autumn as it is in summer
This beachside town is the perfect spot for autumn(Image: UCG, UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Summer may be behind us, but that’s no reason to abandon a trip to the seaside. While taking a dip in the sea might not be on the cards, the British coast still has a great deal to offer.
There’s one spot in particular that locals affectionately call ‘God’s pocket’, owing to its mild microclimate that brings warmer, sunnier weather than the surrounding towns. And even if it’s simply too chilly for a swim, this gorgeous location boasts a bustling high street brimming with independent shops, cafés and pubs.
That magical place is East Wittering, tucked away along the shores of the Manhood Peninsula in West Sussex.
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While it draws the crowds during summer, it’s equally as charming during the cooler months. Take a stroll along the pebbled beach and, at low tide, wander out across the exposed stretches of soft golden sand.
After soaking up the ocean views and breathing in the fresh sea air, head into town for a spot of exploring. Kick off your morning with a coffee from Ground, just a stone’s throw from the beach on Shore Street, before making your way to The Boulevard for a proper sit-down breakfast.
With a full stomach, you can throw yourself into some serious retail therapy. One of East Wittering’s greatest draws is its remarkable array of independent shops.
From vintage clothing and fashion at Let’s Go Back, to locally handcrafted art and jewellery at The Artisan Shoppe, there truly is something to suit every taste.
For those who love the great outdoors, there’s Wittering Surf Shop, while art enthusiasts can head to V. A Design Studios.
The latter is operated by local artist Victoria and stocks everything from large-scale paintings to hand-drawn cards.
Naturally, no weekend browse would be complete without a swift pint before heading home – and East Wittering has plenty of those too.
The Shore Inn is a firm favourite, tucked right beside the main beach entrance. It’s bustling, dog friendly and boasts outdoor seating if you fancy soaking up some of the early autumn sunshine.
There’s also regularly live music to enjoy while you sip on your drink.
Slightly further afield in West Wittering (roughly a 10 minute drive away) sits The Lamb Inn – an 18th century country pub brimming with character and featuring a gorgeous beer garden.
EXCLUSIVE Coronation Street star Vicky Myers has told the Mirror what Swarla fans can expect for Lisa and Carla Connor-Swain and their family as we head through the rest of 2026
14:57, 17 Oct 2026Updated 14:58, 17 Oct 2026
Coronation Street star Vicky Myers has told the Mirror what Swarla fans can expect for Lisa and Carla Connor-Swain(Image: ITV)
Coronation Street star Vicky Myers has teased what’s ahead for Lisa and Carla Connor-Swain.
Teasing Halloween and the end of the year, she hinted there was no real drama. A year ago, the couple, known as Swarla by fans, hit a number of obstacles thanks to Lisa’s ex-wife Becky Swain.
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Lisa actress Vicky agreed Christmas would be happier than last year, before she teased what was ahead for the Connor-Swains. She also teased Halloween, and it sounds like there’s plenty of fun ahead.
She told us: “As far as their relationship’s concerned, between Lisa and Carla, and also as a family unit with Ryan, they’re in a really good place. And I think after last year’s shenanigans, this is good, this is fine, you know?”
Asked if it would be a happy Christmas for once, Vicky replied: “Yeah!”. She then teased what was coming up for her character. On Halloween she said: “Just because it’s Halloween, it doesn’t have to be chaos and mayhem, it’s perfectly fine.”
Asked about the couple’s outfits for the Halloween episodes, she went on: “Just wait until you see them! I can’t really say too much about it, but I was having a chat with makeup, and I’d already suggested the costume and who Lisa should go as.
“And then this person passed away the week that we were shooting it, and I couldn’t believe it, because this person’s a bit of an icon. I just love this person. So to do that, it is a great homage to this person.
“I was made up. And I was very grateful to them for letting me sort of scratch that itch.” Vicky also shared the importance of Lisa and Carla living their own lives on the Cobbles, as well as having scenes together as a couple, amid viewers recently commenting that there’s been an absence of Swarla scenes.
Vicky explained: “It’s important because we get to see them in their own professions and as individuals rather than as a unit. But that doesn’t mean to say that they’re not together, and I know that some people can catastrophise things.
“But I think it’s really important that we can show these women in their their own way, in their own right. Because I think what’s really important is that Lisa came in as this Detective Sergeant.
“Carla’s been a a staple and an icon of the show for 20 years. I think it’s something to celebrate! Especially how ever-changing this industry is, and the show is. For Ali [King] to have been here and portrayed this iconic character for 20 years with the same amount of energy and brilliance and level of curiosity is fantastic, and absolutely should be celebrated.
“People should be sort of singing it from from the rooftops. But I do think it’s important for the viewers to see them in in their own profession and in their own right. It’s good representation as well.
“We have to go to work. Life is is very different to how it was years ago, and also with Betsy’s story, it was really important to be a story of hope, after everything that happened. Because we move, we go on, we continue, we have to. There’s no choice. So, I think for that as well, Betsy to have two working moms, that’s also massively important.”
Coronation Street’s Bethany Platt is pregnant after her fling with Kit Green, but some viewers are predicting a twist on the ITV soap involving another character
Bethany Platt’s baby news on Coronation Street has led to some predictions about who the father is(Image: ITV)
Bethany Platt’s baby news on Coronation Street has led to some predictions about who the father is.
While Bethany actress Lucy Fallon appeared to confirm the dad’s identity, it hasn’t stopped theories curculating about it being somebody else. Bethany learned she was pregnant this week, and she has yet to decide if she will have a termination.
Bethany had a fling with her mum’s ex Kit Green recently, with her mum Sarah Platt currently in prison. The betrayal and now the pregnancy has left her struggling in secret, but fans wonder if a twist will see another character confirmed as the father.
Amid a blossoming romance with Ryan Connor, fans are desperate for the soap to confirm that Ryan is the father of Bethany’s baby. It’s not thought that Ryan and Bethany have slept together, but fans still hope the soap will end up making Ryan the dad.
One fan said on social media: “It’ll be the same as EastEnders, she will tell Kit it’s his, have a DNA test and it ends up being Ryan’s then she just leads Kit on to believe its his.” Another fan said: “I think Ryan would be a great dad.”
A third fan posted: “Hope it’s Ryan’s but doubt that,” as a fourth commented: “I do hope it’s Ryan’s and they get together.” Another viewer said: “I hope it’s Ryan’s would be awful if the baby was Kit’s.”
One more prediction read: “My money is on Ryan,” as a final comment said: “Let’s hope it’s Ryan.” It comes as Lucy, who plays Bethany, appeared to confirm who the dad is.
According to her, Kit is the father, with this also hinted at in scenes this week. She shared: “It’s not going to end well, because it’s her mum’s ex-boyfriend’s baby!”
Lucy is expecting some fan backlash over the betrayal too. She explained: “I think they’re going to be annoyed at her and think that she’s just really stupid, which she is for what she’s done. But there was two people involved here so I’m hoping she doesn’t get all the blame.”
Bethany’s mum Sarah could soon find out about the betrayal too, while Lucy shared that Bethany will not want to tell her mum the truth. Lucy said: “[She feels] really, really, really guilty. Bethany and Sarah have a really good relationship, she’s been such a support to her, she’s basically been a mum to Harry while Sarah’s been in prison.
“They’re almost like best friends because they’re not so far apart in age. So she’s not feeling great about it, and I think it’s going to eat away at her until one day she can’t take it anymore.”
A beloved Coronation Street star has candidly opened up about their struggle with alcohol
Coronation Street legend reveals alcoholism struggle and says bosses saved their life(Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
A Coronation Street actor has opened up about their alcoholism, and revealed that soap bosses sent them to rehab.
Kevin Kennedy joined the ITV soap in 1983 as Curly Watts, renowned for his hapless romantic endeavours and succession of peculiar employment roles. Throughout his tenure on the enduring show, he featured in numerous major storylines.
From his passion for astronomy to his turbulent love life, his years in Weatherfield were packed with drama. Nevertheless, he was last spotted in 2003 when he departed alongside wife Emma (Angela Lonsdale) for a fresh start in Newcastle.
Following his departure, Kevin has remained active, featuring in programmes including BBC’s Doctors, Mrs Browns’ Boys and Holby City.
And on Wednesday (October 14), he turned up on Good Morning Britain to discuss his latest musical, The Picture of Dorian Gray. Kevin also opened up about his battle with alcoholism, disclosing that he has remained sober for 28 years.
He said: “Well, ITV and Coronation Street, effectively saved my life, sending me into rehab. And I was very, very, I still am very grateful for that. You know, I was in there 4 weeks and came out slightly different.”
When questioned about whether his addiction had been impacting his work on the soap opera, he revealed: “Well, that’s the thing about addicts. They’re very resourceful, intelligent people. They have to be. This is why for the charity [Kennedy Street Foundation] that we do, we promote visual recovery.”
Regarding what guidance he would offer those concerned that alcohol or drugs may be becoming an issue, Kevin said: “Well, the rule of thumb with alcohol or any drug or addiction is if it’s costing you more than money, then maybe it’s time to look at it.
“What I would say to you is, we do recover. We do recover. It’s not all doom and gloom. It’s going to take a lot of hard work and a lot of commitment, and you have to go to various health centres; there’s enough out there.
“And if you do, as you’re told, and if you do, as is suggested, then you will recover. I can guarantee you if you put down that drink and that drug, do what’s suggested, your life will get better.”
While on GMB, Kevin spoke fondly about his time on Corrie, saying: “Oh, I mean, all of it is my favourite, actually. I’m very proud of that body of work, yeah, poor boy [Curly], he went through it!”
Kevin continued: “Even now when people come up and they do and they say, ‘oh, I remember when you did that’. I think that’s really humbling experience and I really love it. So it’s great.”
Good Morning Britain airs Monday to Friday at 6am on ITV1.
This town has gorgeous coastal walks as well as plenty to explore
15:06, 12 Oct 2026Updated 15:07, 12 Oct 2026
This gorgeous coastal town is perfect for a weekend away(Image: Getty)
Summer has drawn to a close and autumn has arrived. While summer is a wonderful season for getting away, there’s no reason the enjoyment has to end when temperatures drop.
Indeed, autumn ranks among the most spectacular times of year across the UK.
The foliage transforms into golden hues, tourist numbers dwindle and settling into a welcoming pub following a lengthy ramble epitomises the perfect autumn pursuit.
If you’re seeking a UK destination that truly comes alive during autumn, there’s a delightful seaside town in Cornwall that might tick all the boxes.
According to research conducted by credit card firm Zable, Fowey in Cornwall emerges as the best value location for an autumn staycation. It’s not merely affordable though – it’s also a charming harbour town brimming with things to discover.
The town sits proudly on the banks of the river Fowey and traces its roots back to medieval times.
Its naturally deep water harbour established it as a significant historical port and commercial hub throughout the centuries, while the streets showcase magnificent Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
The region surrounding Fowey also holds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status.
If you fancy exploring the town’s surrounding landscape, then the creeks and coves walk is absolutely essential. This four-mile circular route incorporates two ferry crossings and highlights the magnificent woodlands and coastal pathways that cradle the town.
The walk requires two to three hours including ferry journeys and looks absolutely stunning at this time of year. However, if you’d prefer to remain in the town itself then you certainly won’t be short of things to do.
Fowey boasts a thriving high street brimming with independent shops and boutiques that are ideal for an afternoon of browsing.
Fore Street serves as the town’s main high street and its twisting alleyways offer a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.
Make sure to pop into Jo Downes Handmade Glass for locally blown glass artworks, or Heather Jane and Co., which features art from 180 local makers.
Round off your day at a quintessential Cornish pub, the Ship Inn on Trafalgar Square. This historic establishment was built in 1570 and features a huge open fire ideal for a relaxing autumn pint.
EXCLUSIVE Coronation Street’s Lisa Connor-Swain actress Vicky Myers speaks to me about Swarla, Lisa’s backstory and how Betsy’s storyline saw her reflect on her childhood
07:34, 11 Oct 2026Updated 07:34, 11 Oct 2026
It’s been five years since Vicky Myers took on the guest role of Coronation Street detective Lisa Connor-Swain(Image: ITV)
It’s been five years since Vicky Myers took on the guest role of Coronation Street detective Lisa Connor-Swain.
But a planned four-episode stint turned into the job of a lifetime for the actress, who has no plans to leave the famous Cobbles anytime soon. As long as she challenges me, then I’ll stay forever,” Vicky, 50, tells us.
“It’s unfamiliar territory for me because of the previous roles that I’ve played. She wasn’t a character that needed to be written for, and so as time has progressed, so has she.” Very little was planned for the character before she moved to Weatherfield full-time in 2024.
Since then, fans have seen Lisa at the centre of huge storylines, including her ex-wife Becky Swain faking her death, and Lisa’s teenaged daughter Betsy suffering a stroke, as a result of non-fatal strangulation.
Happier times have seen Lisa’s wedding to factory boss Carla Connor [Alison King], with Swarla, as they are known by adoring soap fans, being the first lesbian couple to marry on the soap. Vicky is thrilled to represent so many people with her character.
“There are so many women who can relate to what Lisa’s been through,” she says. “Also women that are in what used to be a male-dominated profession. For fans to be so loyal and to support Lisa and Carla, I think that’s a testament to how much these two have been needed by viewers. As is with all representation and visibility, it’s very much needed.”
Vicky hopes her latest storyline, which sees Lisa caring for her daughter Betsy [Sydney Martin] who is recovering from a stroke, will shine a light on accessibility issues. As Betsy faces challenges in her rehabilitation, Vicky says she’s reminded of her own experiences, growing up with her brother, Fran, who has cerebral palsy.
“I can relate to my mum,” she tells us. “She was a working mum, but in particular, when my brother was young and with his disability, she had to fight for everything. I watched her, and only as an adult now, and as a mother myself, I realise just how hard she had to fight.
“I’m in awe of her. She still continues, and she’s in her early 70s, but she has this drive and determination that seems endless. And even through exhaustion, she still pushes on, because she has to.”
Reflecting on the challenges faced by her brother Fran, who was born at 28 weeks, Vicky adds: “Looking back, I was a young child, but I remember seeing how she was relentless in her pursuit for accessibility, for understanding, for support, and also so determined that he was going to live as mainstream a life as she could possibly provide for him, her and my dad.
“It was a different generation, my dad worked all hours, we grew up in a pub, and they grafted really hard. I watched my mum, fight to get my brother into a mainstream primary school, they didn’t have accessibility like they have now, it was extremely poor.
“She’s a wonderful woman who I respect massively, and I admire. Lisa moving Betsy’s wheelchair around on set and things, I really wanted to make a point of how cumbersome it can be, but these are necessities, these are how people can navigate life.”
Vicky is grateful for the huge support she and her character have had during her time on the cobbles. Something else she’s grateful for is turning 50 earlier this year, with her sure it will be her “best decade yet”.
“I think as I’ve got older, a lot of my views have changed and I’m a lot calmer. 50 is the best! A lot of things happened in my 40s which were brilliant, but I have this thought process of don’t trip over something that you left behind.
“Take each day as it comes and embrace it, because you never know what’s around the corner. Treat every day as if it’s your last, and just go for it! I’m glad I’m not living my 20s and 30s now. I really wouldn’t like it.
“When I was growing up, we had the 80s, the music, the era, the times, there was freedom. There wasn’t always the thought process of getting my phone out. We were living in the moment, and there’s a real beauty in that.”
As for Lisa’s past, Vicky hopes it’s something the soap will explore. She shares: “I think it will be interesting to explore her family backstory, and why she’s not in touch with any of them. What happened to her as a child, what’s her story, and what was her journey with her sexuality?
“When did she realise that she was queer? All of these things intrigue me with her. I’ve got my ideas. I’ve sort of built things up, but they all need to align together with the storylines. Lisa’s a bit of an enigma. We don’t know everything about her.
“There are things that I know. She’s had a past, we’ve all had a past. Not everybody gets her, not everybody likes her. I’m not sure if I’d want to play somebody that everybody likes, and Lisa’s a challenge for me to play.”
Coronation Street has released a first look at the moment villain Jodie Ramsey brandishes a gun in a deadly showdown with Shona and David Platt, moments before the gun goes off
21:01, 07 Oct 2026Updated 21:01, 07 Oct 2026
Jodie Ramsey points a gun at Coronation Street favourites David and Shona Platt in tense scenes(Image: ITV)
Jodie Ramsey points a gun at Coronation Street favourites David and Shona Platt in tense scenes on Thursday.
It seems a scuffle, with confusion over whether the gun is real or not, leads to it firing. But will death loom for Jodie, David or Shona, and will Jodie be stopped?
Fans have seen Jodie targeting her sister, and others, for weeks. On Thursday her plan to steal David all for herself comes into play, as she tries to seduce him.
Shona finally clocks that her villainous sister is out to get her, and plotting to steal her life. Confronting Jodie over her obsession with her family, the pair have it out, and secrets are exposed.
As David and Shona watch in horror, Jodie raises the gun at them. As David and Shona remain convinced it’s the fake gun they found recently, they challenge her unaware it’s real.
As the situation spirals the gun is fired, shooting someone. As the person collapses, the others are left reeling in horror – but who is shot, and will they die?
Will Jodie be successful in her seduction of David too, and could it lead to a sad split for him and Shona? All will be revealed during Friday’s dramatic episode of the ITV soap.
The fallout is being kept under wraps, while cryptic spoilers confirm someone could be safe. They state that David calls for an ambulance, so does this mean he isn’t hit?
Either way, paramedics soon arrive to tend to the victim, but their fate is not revealed. What is known is that in the days following, the police will investigate what has happened at the Platts house.
Soon it emerges not everyone is telling the truth about what went on, as statements are questioned. As detective Lisa Swain leads the investigation, she soon questions the given version of events.
Speaking to the Mirror recently, Shona actress Julia Goulding said Jodie would get a whole lot worse. She told us: “It’s only go to get more dramatic – how far will Jodie go? I think it’s going to wow everybody. It’s never plain sailing.”
Julia added of the plot: “I think she’s a really intricate complex character. Something has happened to make her like that; she’s not a baddie. She’s got many layers. It’s going to be interesting for the audience to peel those back. I love having Olivia with us; it’s nice exploring Shona’s background as well.”
Two Corrie stars are making their way back to the cobbles years after their last appearance, as Sarah Platt faces prison for the murder of Theo Silverton
James played prosecution barrister Robin Winchester in 2017 and appeared on the show on and off for the following six years. His character was last seen on Corrie as part of the legal team that put Justin Rutherford (Andrew Still) in prison for ten years after he carried out an acid attack on Daisy Midgely (Charlotte Jordan) and Ryan Connor (Ryan Prescott).
Meanwhile, Amelia, who also played Juliette Holiday on Emmerdale, will return as legal barrister Georgina Romney, appearing on the show for the first time in more than six years.
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Georgina was last on the show in 2020, when Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King) was on trial for the attempted murder of her abusive husband Geoff Metcalfe.
Both barristers are expected to appear often during a week of episodes about Sarah Platt’s (Tina O’Brien) trial. The character faces prison after she murdered Theo Silverton (James Cartwright).
Theo was a huge villain on the show. He arrived in 2025 and started a relationship with Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce). He often exhibited controlling and abusive behaviour, slowly isolating Todd from his family and friends. During the Corriedale crossover, Theo left Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank) to die, knowing that Billy had cottoned on to what he was doing to Todd.
Todd and Theo also got married, after which Theo started beating his husband. Todd eventually called the police, but Theo started stalking him. In April, he was discovered murdered outside of the flat he had shared with his husband and a whodunnit ensued.
It was later revealed that Sarah, one of Todd’s closest friends and his ex, had murdered Theo. She hit him to death with a scaffolding pole after Theo taunted her about the dead son she shared with Todd.
A dramatic new trailer teasing what is to come for Sarah Platt has already been released. In the sneak peek, Gary Windass (Mikey North), who helped Sarah cover up her crime by hiding the weapon, is seen insisting that her actions were in self-defence.
Tina O’Brien, who has played Sarah since 1999, said: “Sarah is absolutely terrified, she has been desperate for this day to come, but the reality of being brought up from the cells and standing in the dock is overwhelming.
“As the prosecution’s case is laid out, she is not sure things will go her way.” The dramatic episodes will air from Wednesday, October 14th on ITV, ITVX, STV and YouTube.
When Tina was first cast as Sarah, she was central to a controversial teenage pregnancy storyline and over the years, her character has been kidnapped several times. Her stepfather, who turned out to be a serial killer, infamously tried to drown her and the rest of the family by driving them all into a canal.
Since returning in 2015, Sarah has been married and divorced, and got away with covering up the murder of her drug dealer ex, Callum Logan, who was killed by her now-deceased sister-in-law, Kylie.
Tens of thousands have taken to the streets across France as unions and teachers joined high school students who, for days, have been demanding better learning conditions in protests punctuated by violent confrontations.
The French Ministry of the Interior said 86,000 people had already joined demonstrations across the country early on Tuesday, while the General Confederation of Labour (CGT) union put the figure at 260,000.
Students have blocked the entrances to hundreds of high schools since late September, complaining of missing teachers, overloaded timetables, dilapidated classrooms and buildings unable to cope with rising temperatures.
While many protests have been peaceful, some demonstrators have started fires, destroyed bus shelters or clashed with riot police.
Police have responded with batons, tear gas and riot-control rounds.
Injuries, investigations
The government says 215 students and 715 police officers have been injured since the start of the movement.
Unions, rights groups and students have accused the authorities of using disproportionate force.
A 15-year-old lost a hand to a stun grenade fired by riot officers in the northern town of Lens on Monday.
Police have launched 10 internal investigations into allegations of brutality since the protests began, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said late on Monday.
Since the start of the movement, 24 schools have been burned or ransacked, according to the Ministry of Education.
More than 5,000 people, 87 percent of them minors, have been arrested.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu’s office said 85 members of teaching staff have also been injured.
The government is also pushing legislation to make those responsible for damaging public property pay for repairs themselves, instead of using public funds.
“They have been through a lot over the past six or seven years,” said Bhushan Sethi, a partner at PwC, who moderated a Sibos panel on AI-led workforce strategy. “We’ve gone from the Great Recession to quiet quitting. We’re now in the ‘no hire, no fire’ job market in the US and beyond.”
Through it all, companies continue to ask their employees to move faster, reimagine their businesses end-to-end, and standardize their documented processes globally, while their leadership eyes the performance of small AI-enabled startups unencumbered by technology debt, he added. “That’s a challenge.”
Especially when 80% of those polled expect their organization to reduce headcount by 20% in the next few years.
“We don’t have a choice of going back and saying ‘No, we are not going to move with the industry and trends that are leading the next generation of the financial services industry,’” said Anna Domino, global head of client services at BNY.
“BNY has more than 300 AI-enabled offerings currently in production,” she added. “We also have almost 150 digital employees deployed across the organization, including operations and other functions. Over half our employee population are AI super-users on a daily basis.”
In comparison, only 22% of respondents in PwC’s survey reported using generative AI daily for their jobs, up 8% from the previous year.
Calming the AI Workforce
Allaying a workforce’s anxiety about AI won’t be easy, as 44% of respondents in a PwC survey said they did not trust their senior management.
“That’s a hard environment to bring your best self to work and to optimize and leverage the investments that many, many firms have made and will continue to make in AI-led transformation,” said PwC’s Sethi.
Applying human skills such as empathy and kindness would help leadership manage its workforce’s anxiety, he added. “Let’s face it, we could all do with a little more of that.”
When BNY deploys a new solution, Domino’s team works with the people who currently do the job and lets them lead the bank’s redesign of the process to create more value for the client.
“If you include people in the conversation and give them transparency about how their role will change because of the redesign and what skills they need to learn over time to support the new process, it makes buy-in much easier,” she said.
Another option for employers is to wait a few years and hire those born around 2010, who won’t remember a world without AI.
“We have people in their 20s, mid-20s, and late 20s who are digital natives, but [employers] want those people who came out of their cribs and started playing on tablets and iPhones,” said panelist Darmesh Sethi, a managing director at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC), sharing his personal opinion.
They will enter entry-level jobs after working on their high school newspapers and using AI throughout college, he added. “They are comfortable; they’re confident, and that is what we need. We need a confident workforce that can actually harness the power and potential of what these technologies provide.”
However, the same technologies are eliminating the menial work that once taught entry-level employees the business.
“When we were hiring people out of college 20 years ago, they would be creating spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations,” said BNY’s Domino. “None of that is happening anymore. So, we have to focus on apprenticeships, coaching, shadowing, and bringing that talent in front of clients way sooner than it used to happen 20 or 30 years ago.”
The process would require an investment of time and energy from senior leaders who possess the business knowledge, she added.
SMBC’s Sethi sees entry-level employees moving from grunt work to decision-making. “That is where they are going to have to step up,” he said. “And that is what we are really seeing in our employee training and the intentional hiring of young talent.”
Especially at the moment, as it was recently revealed that Christina’s long-lost granddaughter Lucy Parkinson (Anya Dewin) is living on the cobbles. And in Monday’s episode (October 5), Christina tries to get to know Lucy, who is unaware of the truth.
In real life though, Christina star Amy’s life couldn’t be more different from her on-screen Weatherfield alter-ego’s… Here, we’re taking a look inside the soap favourite’s life.
What has Amy been in?
Amy Robbins boasts an extensive television portfolio spanning many years. The RADA-educated star has featured in programmes.
These include Where the Heart Is, Heartbeat, Hollyoaks, EastEnders, Holby City, Doctors, and even Emmerdale. She appeared on the ITV soap in 2022, playing the defence barrister in the court case of the village serial killer Meena Jutla (Paige Sandhu).
Amy’s romance with husband
Amy is loved-up with her husband and fellow actor Robert Daws whose career spans almost 50 years. Robert has appeared in the likes of Death in Paradise, Holby City an he played Tuppy Glossop in ITV’s comedy Jeeves and Wooster from 1990 to 1993.
Robert also appeared on Coronation Street in 2010 playing Tom Hughes. As for Amy and Robert, the pair started dating while working on ITV medical drama The Royal in which Amy played Dr. Jill Weatherill and Robert played her on-screen husband Dr Gordon.
Talking about their romance, Amy told The Mirror in 2007: “We were friends for a long time. But I just knew I wanted to be with him. We are like two sides of the same person and have a similar outlook on life. We are both big family people and put our families first. People even say that we look alike.”
Amy and Robert also share two daughters, Elizabeth and May. However, according to Amy her first experience of childbirth was traumatic. She added to the publication: “It was a nightmare. I remember going into the labour ward and thinking I’d gone into hell and all these women were being tortured.
Amys’ famous brother
Amy belongs to a remarkably gifted theatrical family. Amy’s sibling Ted previously enjoyed his moment in Corrie’s spotlight, appearing in the programme seven years ago as Mary Taylor’s romantic interest, Brendan Finch.
Nevertheless, he’s equally recognised for his contributions to productions including Calendar Girls, The Slammer, Diddy Movies, and Benidorm. In 2023, Amy revealed the guidance Ted offered her after discovering she’d secured a role in the popular ITV soap.
She told The Mirror: “He told me not to underestimate the feeling of standing in the Rovers for the first time. He said it would be overwhelming, and he was right.
“His other piece of advice was not to call William Roache ‘Ken’ like he did. Ted bumped into William and accidentally said ‘hello Mr Barlow’.”
Amy’s other family
Meanwhile, Amy’s sister, Kate Robbins, is also a recognisable face, and the duo featured together in the 1986 sketch programme Robbins.
Kate has appeared on screen in programmes including Spitting Image, After Life, and EastEnders, whilst her daughter is I’m A Celeb and Rivals star, Emily Atack.
But that’s not everything, as Amy’s first cousin once removed is The Beatles icon Paul McCartney. Paul is Amy’s mum’s cousin, and she’s spoken warmly of him, stating: “He’s everything you would hope him to be, genuinely lovely.”
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX
YOU SAY Oxford Circus, you think crowded streets and busy shops – but there is a whole other side to it you might not have known about.
So we’ve taken it on in two different way – as a busy mum looking to keep her kid busy, to a girly weekend in the city without going to the shops.
Soho might be famed for its shops but it has a whole other side to itCredit: AlamyAnd with the plans revealed for its pedestrianisation, here is how to do it as a mum, and a girly weekend without the shops.Credit: PA
Blow dry bars, Mexican afternoon teas and gorgeous Italian dinners
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor, explores the busy centre on a girly weekend wanting some pampering.
Growing up in the countryside, my first impression of London was the hubbub of Soho, with bustling streets full of eager shoppers elbowing each other out of the way.
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Yet 20 years later, having since moved to (and left) the crazy capital, I know there is more to the iconic city centre than its shops.
And with the announcement that it is about to become pedestrianized, it’s about to become an attraction in its own right.
If you want to explore the centre of London without actually dipping into the shops, it also makes for the perfect girly day out either with your best mate or your mum – if you know where to go as a local.
It is a fantastic destination for a pamper, with affordable nail salons and hairdressers – and did you know one of London’s most famed blow dry bars is found at the bottom of the John Lewis department store?
Having first launched in Chelsea back in 2014 (becoming a fave with the Made in Chelsea stars), Duck & Dry has become an institution for the place to go before a big event.
I sank into the plush chairs, laidback music overheard while I chatted to my hairdresser as my hair was massaged and washed.
As a woman in my mid-30s, I’ve realised that it’s the little luxuries that make life worth it and a person kneading all of my worries away is one of them.
Just 30 minutes later, I left a new woman with a fresh new do so gorgeous, I even bought a blow dry brush on my way out to try and replicate it at home.
What better way to start the day then with a blow dry?
(Don’t stop there though, one of my favourite nails bars, Cona, is just around the corner, with the hidden salon tucked behind the bold oranged painted cafe front).
Hair done, nailed fixed – we needed something to line our stomach and gone are the days of our 20s where we opted for a bottomless brunch.
Being more afternoon tea gals, one of the more unique ones is found in the Treehouse Hotel just off the main high street.
This isn’t your usual afternoon tea, however, (although you will still find a scone or two on top) – it’s called the Afternoon Te-Quila, so expect a Mexican fusion.
Starting with a freshly made margharita, we gorged on fresh fish tacos, pumpkin pies and even a unique chocolate taco, pumped full of decadent chocolate mousse.
The views are just as amazing, looking out over London from the top floor, but as I sat under a ceiling of green hanging plants, I was transported to somewhere much more tropical.
There is so much to do outside of this as well that doesn’t require you to lug shopping bags around town.
Or how about catching a West End show? The Palladium has some fantastic shows coming up including Delta Goodrem, Michael Ball and of course the Christmas panto.
Forget your usual afternoon teas – this is a Mexican inspired one with a viewI loved the free margherita alongside the fantastic views
(While I might have said there is so much to do along the high street without the shops, I would still recommend popping into the new M&S flagship, with four entire floors of homeware, clothes and a Food Hall. I may have left with both new linen trousers and some Percy Pigs…)
Don’t think I forgot about dinner, because London isn’t one of the world’s best food capitals for no reason.
And with more than 600 restaurants to choose from, according to OpenTable, where do you even start?
Well I’ve found just the place, if you want somewhere slightly quieter away from the crowds, but with fantastic service, a low-key atmosphere and hearty, Italian portions.
Enter Lavo at the BoTree.
Start at the bar for a cocktail – while the menu might sound confusing, it explains which cocktail they are similar to, so I had their version of a negroni.
On weekends there is also a live DJ who toes the line of great, lo-fi music without being so loud you can’t hear each other.
Slightly woozy at this point, my direction to my table was welcome before gorging on towering piles of tuna tartare and large bowls of penne a la vodka.
Our extremely funny server even tempted us into sharing what is now going down as one of the best tiramasus we’ve ever eaten.
The restaurant was low-key but so chicThe portion sizes were huge too
And when you need to rest your weary feet from a day of pounding the pavements, you can’t get much more central than the Radisson Blu Bond Street.
Currently undergoing a renovation, it is just steps from the main road, with some of the best views of the high street from my room overlooking the shops.
With Oxford Circus not having many late night openings, don’t worry about not getting any sleep, as it was super quiet once everything had closed.
The cosy restaurant – with that brand new smell – also had a fantastic breakfast spread to refuel, from pancakes and avocado toast to all of the pastries and trimming of a Full English.
So while Oxford Circus will always be known at the shopping high street, there is so much more to it to bring your out of town friend, siblings or parents to without having to step into a shop.
Unless you get a Percy Pig craving, that is.
Illusion museums, kid-friendly food halls and ‘treehouse’ hotels
Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital), explores as a mum with a seven-year-old to keep occupied
As a London mum, I regularly take my seven year old into the city centre for theatre, museums, parks and all the other awesome attractions it has to offer kids.
But Oxford Street? Are you mad? It’s somewhere I’d actively avoided, assuming it was the worst place for a very active kid who loves running around and touching everything in sight.
How wrong I was. Because we recently spent an overnight stay on Europe’s most famous high street… and it was one of our best 24 hours in the capital.
Oxford Street has changed a lot since I was a kid, coming up from the home counties to spend my Christmasmoney at Topshop.
In some ways for the bad (those many American candy stores), but in many other ways for the good.
As some of the big chain stores have departed, enterprising new ventures have opened up that are perfect for a family day out.
Take for instance, the Twist Museum. A brilliantly fun illusion museum – even though the grumpy middle aged woman in me still insists it’s not a museum.
We had such a great time exploring all of the mind-bending activities, our favourites being the 3D hologram creator, the mirror room and the ‘big and small room’.
Swingers surprised me with how great it was for kidsCredit: dot dash media
It was so cool that I now have three pictures from there alone on my fridge at home – high praise.
Equally fun was Swingers Golf and Carnival Games, which I’d always written off as an adults-only venue for big kids at heart to have fun with a beer.
Not so, as during the day in the school holidays it was packed with families enjoying easily the best crazy golf I’ve ever done in my life.
Then you get a half-hour pass to play as many games as you can in a retro-style arcade.
As a parent who’s forked out more pound coins than I care to remember at amusement arcades, it was a total joy to do it all for free… and with a time limit. Plus, I got to sip on an extremely good frozen marg while I did it.
If the kids are feeling hungry, their food offering is a godsend. Several high-end food trucks like Patty and Bun burgers and Breddos tacos mean you can all pick what you want to eat.
If you’re looking for something every so slightly more highbrow, we ended our day at Frameless – the very cool digital art experience where you’re put inside famous paintings, as they surround you on huge screens and come to life.
It was really surprising to see how much my son engaged with such old paintings, which he may have dismissed as stuffy in a gallery, by bringing them to life.
I was surprised how much my kid loved Frameless tooCredit: Alamy
Of course after pounding the streets for so long, we were in need of some refreshments, so we headed to Market Halls, which has every food any foodie or fussy kid would want.
I dined on Malaysian Nasi Goreng and Thai soup, while my son had savoury crepes for main… and Nutella crepes for pudding.
Thankfully, with our extremely full stomachs we didn’t have far to go to lay our heads, as we were booked into the Treehouse Hotel, an achingly cool and modern property on Langham Place, with some of the best views of London I’ve ever seen.
Our room was very Scandi-style, with a lovely window seat so we could look out over the city.
The next morning, we managed to find space in our stomachs for brekkie, at the Mexican inspired Madera restaurant, where I had a bagel topped with scramble tofu, vegan cheese and jalapeno pickled red onions, while my son opted for the waffles with whipped cream and berries.
We fell in love with the Treehouse hotel
We lingered far too long over breakfast, sad to tear ourselves away from the stunning views from our table.
All that fun of museums, art exhibitions, golf, arcades, and some fantastic food and drink, without stepping foot into a shop?
Teenage me would never believe it.
The New West End Company represents 100 streets in the district including Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street.
They explain: “New West End Company is solely focused on representing and keeping the West End thriving. Established more than two decades ago, today our 800+ membership includes the most respected names in global retail, leisure, hospitality, real estate and business.
“We keep our West End streets clean and safe, promote world-class experiences, provide trusted data and insight, and make the case for policies that support growth. Between 2026-2031, we are investing £60 million to make the district stronger, safer and even more competitive.
“Together with our partners – including Westminster City Council, the Metropolitan Police, the Mayor of London – we are proud to shape the district our members thrive in.“
