Tesco

Last day to get amazing Quality Street Christmas dub deal at major supermarket

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

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

Child's hand selecting a chocolate from a box of colorful candies.

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Tubs usually cost £7 but shoppers can save over a thirdCredit: Alamy
Morrisons supermarket entrance.

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It disappears from shelves after todayCredit: Getty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to save money on chocolate

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

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Purple Quality Street chocolate container with assorted chocolates.

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

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Best apps to save you £100s by revealing the cheapest prices on food, petrol, flights and parking

THERE are loads of ways for Brits to use apps to slash bills this summer.

You can easily find the cheapest prices for food, petrol, flights and parking. If you use them regularly, you could easily save hundreds a year.

Smartphone screen showing a fuel price comparison app.

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PetrolPrices is one easy way to bring down your fuel billsCredit: PetrolPrices

CHEAPER PETROL

One great option for drivers is the PetrolPrices.

The name is the giveaway here. This app is designed to help you find the cheapest petrol prices in the area.

You can see the locations on a map, or find them as a list sorted by lowest price, distance, and even brands.

Site owners can upload their own prices, and users can report the fuel costs too.

It means you don’t have to drive around looking for the cheap prices – or face a price shock at the pump.

Another handy tip is using the Google Maps fuel efficiency feature.

Turn it on by going into Google Maps > Profile > Settings > Navigation > Route Options > Prefer Fuel-Efficient Routes.

“Google Maps can estimate fuel or energy efficiency for different vehicle types, including electric and combustion engine cars, as well as petrol motorcycles,” Google explained.

“The more fuel or energy efficient the route, the lower your vehicle’s fuel or energy usage.”

You should also tell Google your engine type in Google Maps > Profile > Settings > Your Vehicle.

Google unleashes surprise upgrade to Gemini AI in war on ChatGPT – and promises two super-intelligent changes

That can give you even better fuel-efficiency.

“The most fuel or energy-efficient route can be different based on the engine type,” Google said.

“For example, diesel vehicles’ relative fuel economy advantage is generally greatest in motorway driving.

“Hybrid and electric vehicles tend to provide greater efficiency in stop-start town and hill driving where they can benefit from regenerative braking.”

Smartphone screen showing fuel-saving route options based on engine type (petrol, diesel, electric, hybrid).

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Tell Google your vehicle type to save money on fuelCredit: Google

FOOD PRICES

For food savings, you’ll want to first take a look at Trolley.

It lets you compare prices for groceries across supermarkets, with a long list of stores including:

  • Asda
  • Sainsburys
  • Aldi
  • Home Bargains
  • Morrisons
  • Tesco
  • Boots
  • Wilko
  • Coop
  • Waitrose
  • Superdrug
  • B&M
  • Ocado
  • Iceland
  • Savers
  • Poundland
Screenshot of a phone screen showing a price comparison app for Persil laundry detergent.

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Trolley lets you compare prices between loads of supermarketsCredit: Trolley

The app says it’ll save you up to 30% on a weekly shop, but your own success will vary depending on what you buy and how much you spend.

Another option – recently tested by The Sun’s tech desk – is to use the Google Gemini chatbot.

You can use it to plan your food shop by asking the bot to find the cheapest prices.

It’s also worth noting that you can bag cheap or free food by picking up leftovers or stuff that would be otherwise thrown away.

Two apps – Olio and Too Good To Go – are packed with food bargains.

And if you want free food, Sky customers can bag a weekly treat from the Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference range through the MySky app.

Just go to the Sky VIP panel (which is free to join) to claim your freebie.

We’ve seen ice lollies and pizzas so far, but there’s a new option every week.

Coupon for free Sainsbury's Taste the Difference ice cream.

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Sky hands out freebies to customers every week, courtesy of Sainsbury’sCredit: Sky / The Sun

FLIGHT COMPARISONS

There’s no denying that Skyscanner is a brilliant option for finding cheap flights.

But you should also take a look at Google Flights, which has some clever tricks.

For a start, when you’re searching for flights, it can show you the cheapest window to book.

“For example, these insights could tell you that the cheapest time to book similar trips is usually two months before departure, and you’re currently in that sweet spot,” Google said.

Screenshot

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Google Flights will show you the cheapest time to bookCredit: Google

“Or you might learn that prices have usually dropped closer to takeoff, so you decide to wait before booking. Either way, you can make that decision with a greater sense of confidence.”

You can also turn on price tracking for specific dates (like if you’re off to a wedding) or for any dates (if you just want a holiday at some point soon).

This feature will only appear if you’re signed in to your Google account.

And right now, Google Flights is getting an upgrade with the Flights Deal feature.

Screenshot

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You can track prices on Google Flights to get notificationsCredit: Google

It’s currently only in the US, Canada, and India – but it looks likely to land in the UK eventually too.

The feature works using AI with Google saying it’s “for flexible travellers whose number one goal is saving money“.

“Instead of playing with different dates, destinations and filters to uncover the best deals, you can just describe when, where and how you’d like to travel — as though you’re talking to a friend — and Flight Deals will take care of the rest,” Google said.

For example, you could search for a “week-long trip this winter to a city with great food, nonstop only”, Google revealed.

Screenshot

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Google’s upcoming Flight Deals feature lets you chat with an AI holiday helperCredit: Google

Then it’ll use Google Fights data to show you the latest options from loads of airlines.

CHEAP PARKING

Lastly, make sure you’re not overpaying on parking.

There’s a great app called JustPark, which you might be familiar with as a way to pay at some car parks.

But it also lets people rent out their driveways, which means you can bag some great bargains.

Smartphone screen showing parking payment app.

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JustPark is a great way to find cheap parking across the UKCredit: JustPark

We tried it out earlier this year and found £6 for all-day parking in London on a weekday.

You can book them far in advance, and even add on insurance that covers the excess if your car ends up getting damaged.

You can easily check and amend (or cancel) your driveway parking through the app from anywhere. So you could add extra time if you’re running late.

And it’s potentially a great way to bag a bargain for sports fixtures by getting near-stadium parking.

You could also turn it into a side-hustle by renting out your own parking space.

So you wouldn’t just be saving money, but making some quick cash too.

HOW TO RENT YOUR DRIVEWAY FOR CASH

Here’s how the process works on JustPark…

First, you go to JustPark and go through the Get A Quote process.

That involves handing over your name, postcode, and an email address.

Then you add the details for your actual space, choose the days and hours that you prefer, and set a price.

You’ll need to be the legal owner of the space, or have permission from the landlord.

JustPark will let you know when you get a booking from one of the 13 million drivers on the app.

As long as you’ve given clear parking instructions, you shouldn’t need to do much else.

You don’t need to make your space available constantly.

For instance, you could set it so that it’s only available while you’re out at work – or while you’re away on holiday.

You can take down your space from JustPark if you get tired of it – or if you decide it’s just too much hassle.

For short-term bookings, money is added to your JustPark account 48 hours after the it begins. And longer-term bookings will see payments added after the first month.

You can do manual withdrawals, or set up automatic withdrawals every month or quarter.

And it’ll take up to 10 working days for the money to come into your bank account.

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The ‘timeless’ Tesco dress that’s only £15, hides bloated tummies AND keeps you cool on hot summer nights

FASHION fans are racing to snap up a £15 summer dress that will keep you cool and comfortable in the heat.

With temperatures soaring over 30C today, Brits will be doing everything they can to cool down.

Model wearing a light green ruffle dress.

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Shoppers are racing to buy this Tesco dressCredit: Tesco
Model wearing a light green patterned dress from the back.

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It’s already sold out in some sizesCredit: Tesco

And although purchasing a fan or making your own air conditioner may be your first thought, treating yourself to a weather-appropriate frock can make a huge difference.

Tesco’s F&F is one of the best-loved brands on the high street, and is constantly wowing us with its stylish but affordable fashion.

From cute dresses to on-trend work attire, the supermarket fast-fashion range always hits the mark, and its new summer collection is no exception.

‘Timeless’ dress

One dress in particular that has caught the attention of fashion fans is the The F&F Edit Ruffle Trim Tie Neck Mini Dress in Multi Green which has been slashed from £32.50 to £15, a saving of over 50%.

Read more fashion stories

The mint green frock features a loose fitting flowy skirt, perfect for hiding bloated bellies, and designed to keep you cool on sweltering days.

It also has elegant long sleeves and a dainty tie neckline, which create an air of sophistication.

The gown is perfect for pairing with wedges for fancy holiday dinners, and can be dressed down with chunky sandals for strolls along the beach.

Tesco said: “Bring a romantic edge to your summer outfits with this mini dress, complete with a pretty tie neckline and ruffle accents.

“Featuring long sleeves with elasticated cuffs, the flowing silhouette creates a flattering fit.

“Pair with wedge heels or flat sandals for a timeless outfit on warm days.”

I’m 5ft3 & a size 12-14 – my 7 Tesco dresses are an absolute bargain & perfect for a last-minute wedding guest outfit

The dress comes in a wide range of sizes from size six to size 22.

However, it has proved so popular with shoppers that it has already sold out in some sizes – so you better be quick to snap up the deal.

More Tesco dresses

Another dress that has caught the eye of fashion fans is the F&F Leopard Print Midi Dress in Multi Brown, which has been slashed from £22.50 to £11, saving of almost 50%.

The statement frock features puff sleeves, for a flattering look around the arms, and has a slit up the hem, for a feminine touch.

How has Tesco’s F&F upped its game

By Fabulous’ Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend

ZARA has become a high street staple in recent years thanks to its hot-off-the-catwalk designs and affordable prices.
But recently those prices have risen with the brand’s popularity.
However, if you are looking for high fashion inspired outfits with low price tags you needn’t drag yourself to your local shops, just head to the supermarket instead.
F&F has come a long way from selling a few backs of T-shirts and fluffy dressing gowns and is now a must have shopping destination for thousands.
They produce good quality, long lasting and on trend clothes that puts others to shame.
F&F is filled with Zara dupes and other looks inspired by our favourite shops that will set you back less than £50 – and you can get them while you pick up your dinner.
I for one love F&F denim, it’s durable, fits really well and has all the best silhouettes.
So even if you’re not looking for reasonable prices but just want good clothes, get yourself to Tesco.

The leopard print gown would look perfect paired with sandals for a summer look, and can easily be transitioned into your winter wardrobe if paired with boots.

Shoppers are also loving the F&F Edit Palm Print Bardot Midi Dress in Multi Red, which has been slashed from £25 to just £12.

The stylish frock features an exotic tropical pattern and a belt that will help to hide your tummy.

The long-sleeves and elasticated neckline provide a flattering and comfortable look, which can be dressed up with heels, or dressed down with sandals.

Tesco fans are also loving the F&F Cotton Rich Sleeveless Ribbed Racer Midi Dress in Mink which has been slashed from £16 to just £9, a saving of almost 60%.

The simple dress can easily be chucked on in hot weather, and the sleeveless design will help to cool down sweaty armpits.

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‘Love every single pair’ shoppers cry as Sainsbury’s launch ‘gorgeous’ range of autumn PJs

SAINSBURY’S shoppers are going wild after spotting a “gorgeous” new autumn pyjama collection.

The supermarket’s in-house fashion label Tu is one of the best-loved brands on the high street, and is constantly wowing us with its stylish but affordable fashion.

“I need these” cry shoppers after spotting “gorgeous” autumn pyjama line in Sainsbury’s, , , https://www.tiktok.com/@life.of.pops/video/7536251224719379734?_r=1&_t=ZN-8ymNNa695oE

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Shoppers are in a frenzy after discovering Sainsbury’s pyjama lineCredit: TikTok/ @life.of.pop
“I need these” cry shoppers after spotting “gorgeous” autumn pyjama line in Sainsbury’s, , , https://www.tiktok.com/@life.of.pops/video/7536251224719379734?_r=1&_t=ZN-8ymNNa695oE

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A TikToker posted her finds in a now-viral videoCredit: TikTok/ @life.of.pop

TikToker Jasmine Poppy sent fashion lovers into a frenzy when she posted a clip of her latest TU Clothing purchases.

The TikToker showed off Sainsbury’s new range of cosy sets perfect for snuggling up as the nights draw in.

Among the finds was the Mini Me Women’s Halloween Pink Pumpkin Print Slinky Pyjama set, priced at £16, with the rest of the line retailing at £20.

And while Halloween PJs usually mean garish orange and purple prints, Sainsbury’s has gone for something a little different this year with pretty designs in soft pinks and cute patterns that shoppers say are “perfect for autumn”.

The line includes a pink jersey pasta printed set, cosy pin-striped pumpkin set and a fun cherry cake printed set, with plenty of other cute designs for shoppers to pick from.

“I need these” cry shoppers after spotting “gorgeous” autumn pyjama line in Sainsbury’s, , , https://www.tiktok.com/@life.of.pops/video/7536251224719379734?_r=1&_t=ZN-8ymNNa695oE

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The collection features fun, pastel printsCredit: TU

The playful pumpkin prints, soft fabrics, and matching sets have quickly earned a spot on people’s must-buy lists.

“I LOVE TU pjs, they’re so comfy,” raved one fan in the comments.

Another wrote: “Never have I run to order something so quickly.”

A third added: “These are gorgeous, I want all of them.”

One shopper had their eyes on a particular set, gushing: “I need the cherry pumpkin ones.”

I work in Sainsbury’s – my picks from new autumn collection, 1920s trend is back

While another insisted: “Sainsbury’s pjs top all others, honestly.”

It’s clear Sainsbury’s is coming into the colder months well prepared, with styles that feel seasonal without being over-the-top spooky, perfect for anyone who wants to nod to Halloween without going full fancy dress.

So, if you’re already dreaming of hot chocolate, candles, and a fresh pair of matching PJs, you might want to make your next supermarket trip a pyjama haul.

It comes after a Sainsbury’s fashion boss sent shoppers into a frenzy after giving them a sneak peek of their new autumn arrivals.

Hannah Pountain, Director of Merchandising at Tu Clothing, revealed her top five picks from the new range in an Instagram video over the weekend.

And she rounded up her five top picks from the new range – including a staple buy which proves a classic 1920s trend is returning.

The autumn drop follows a wave of excitement over other high street nightwear launches.

Just last week, Primark had shoppers swooning with a Clueless-themed pyjama line, inspired by the iconic 90s rom-com.

/S

“I need these” cry shoppers after spotting “gorgeous” autumn pyjama line in Sainsbury’s, , , https://www.tiktok.com/@life.of.pops/video/7536251224719379734?_r=1&_t=ZN-8ymNNa695oE

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The retailer is selling Halloween pyjamasCredit: TU
“I need these” cry shoppers after spotting “gorgeous” autumn pyjama line in Sainsbury’s, , , https://www.tiktok.com/@life.of.pops/video/7536251224719379734?_r=1&_t=ZN-8ymNNa695oE

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Shoppers say the sets are ‘perfect for autumn’Credit: TU

Is supermarket fashion the new high street?

DEPUTY Fashion Editor Abby McHale weighs in:

The supermarkets have really upped their game when it comes to their fashion lines. These days, as you head in to do your weekly food shop you can also pick up a selection of purse-friendly, stylish pieces for all the family. 

Tesco has just announced a 0.7 per cent increase in the quarter thanks to a ‘strong growth in clothing’ and M&S has earnt the title of the number one destination for womenswear on the high street.

Asda’s clothing line George has made £1.5 million for the supermarket in 2023, 80 per cent of Sainsbury’s clothes sold at full price rather than discounted and Nutmeg at Morrisons sales are also up 2 per cent in the past year.

So what is it about supermarket fashion that is becoming so successful?

Apart from the clothing actually being affordable, it’s good quality too – with many being part of schemes such as the Better Cotton Initiative.

A lot of the time they keep to classic pieces that they know will last the customer year after year. 

Plus because they buy so much stock they can turn around pieces quickly and buy for cheaper because of the volumes.



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Don’t spend a fortune on wedding guest dresses – I found a stunning option is Asda for just £6, I’m 5ft3 & a size 12/14

A SAVVY shopper has bagged stunning wedding guest dresses from Asda for less than a tenner.

TikToker Christina Mitsi, who’s 5ft 3 and a size 12/14, headed to George at Asda in search of the perfect big-day look and found a whole rail of gorgeous dresses from just £6.

Don’t spend a fortune on wedding guest dresses - Asda has options for just £6, , https://www.tiktok.com/@christinatmitsi/video/7529189527513058582?_r=1&_t=ZN-8yg0Cd6waik

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A woman shared her wedding guest dress finds from AsdaCredit: TikTok/ @christinatmitsi
Don’t spend a fortune on wedding guest dresses - Asda has options for just £6, , https://www.tiktok.com/@christinatmitsi/video/7529189527513058582?_r=1&_t=ZN-8yg0Cd6waik

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Her favourite set her back just £6Credit: Tiktok/ @christinatmitsi

And while you might expect the cheapest frock to look like a bargain bin disaster, she reckons it’s one of the best of the lot.

Among her top picks was a beautiful navy satin-style number – simple, elegant and with a stretchy back that made it “so comfy” to wear.

The dress only set her back £6.

She laughed: “Can you imagine turning up in that and everyone saying, ‘Your dress is gorgeous, where’s it from?’ and you say Asda, six quid.”

She also fell in love with a flowy green dress for £15.

For something a little more versatile, she tried a multi-way bridesmaid-style gown for £32, which can be tied and styled in several different ways.

“So affordable if you need matching dresses for your bridesmaids, this is a fantastic option,” she said.

Sage Green Slinky Multiway Midi Dress

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She praised the £32 bridesmaid style gown
iSKA Green Satin Rosette Midaxi Dress

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Christina loved the flowy, green dressCredit: ASDA

Christina was seriously impressed with the quality, comfort and price of most of the range.

And with dresses starting at just £6, she says it’s the perfect excuse to splash out on a fancy handbag and heels instead.

“Why spend more when you can get a lovely dress for £15 or less?” she added.

Fans were just as impressed.

Kat Farmers new George at Asda Collection

One user said: “Wow, you look stunning.”

Another added: “Love – makes me want to buy it in case I ever get invited to a wedding”.

While a third said: “They all look gorgeous on you x”.

It came just days after another savvy fashionista showed off her £3 event dress she bagged from Asda’s clearance rail.

The bargain-hunter, @finchofautismlife took to TikTok to show off the stunning satin dress from George at Asda.

And fans were totally obsessed.

“You look stunning,” one viewer gushed.

Another said: “Wow, I love it, that dress is gorgeous!”

Last week, shoppers were sent into a frenzy over a sweet broderie anglaise white mini dress, reduced from £22 to just £15, with rave reviews calling it “classy”, “lightweight” and the “perfect fit”.

Others have gone wild for a £20 floral dress hailed as “perfect in every way” , ideal for summer weddings or garden parties, while a £12 leopard print denim shirt dress became a best-seller thanks to its comfy oversized fit and transitional style.

But the £3 event dress might just take the crown for the best fashion bargain yet.

So if you’re in the market for an affordable outfit that’ll turn heads without emptying your wallet, it might be worth swinging by your local Asda and checking the rails.

The buzz comes after Asda launched its first-ever stand-alone George store in Leeds earlier this year, which could be rolled out nationwide if it proves a hit.

The new store, which opened on Saturday, May 10, in the old Asda Living unit at Crown Point Retail Park, is a dream come true for George fans.

It’s packed with affordable fashion, stylish homeware, must-have toys, and adorable baby gear, plus a brand new café to keep you fuelled mid-shop.

There are currently 30 Asda Living stores in the UK, but the supermarket giant is testing the waters with this new George-only concept.

Bosses are expected to make a decision later this year on whether more will launch across the country.

The George brand, first launched in 1989 by fashion guru George Davies, changed the game as the UK’s first supermarket clothing label.

By 2004, it had become the nation’s biggest clothing retailer, and today it’s still going strong, racking up 260 million visits a year to its site and stocking shelves in 560 stores.

How to save at Asda

Shop the budget range

Savvy shopper Eilish Stout-Cairns recommends that shoppers grab items from Asda’s Just Essentials range.

She said: “Asda’s budget range is easy to spot as it’s bright yellow! Keep your eyes peeled for yellow and you’ll find their Just Essentials range.

“It’s great value and I’ve found it has a much wider selection of budget items compared to other supermarkets.

 Sign up to Asda Rewards 

The savvy-saver also presses on the importance of signing up to Asda’s reward scheme.

She said: “Asda Rewards is free to join and if you shop at Asda you should absolutely sign up.

“As an Asda Rewards member, you’ll get exclusive discounts and offers, and you’ll also be able to earn 10% cashback on Star Products.

“This will go straight into your cashpot, and once you’ve earned at least £1, you can transfer the money in your cashpot into ASDA vouchers.

We’ve previously rounded up the best supermarket loyalty schemes – including the ones that will save you the most money.

Look out for booze deals

Eilish always suggests that shoppers looking to buy booze look out for bargain deals.

She said: “Asda often has an alcohol offer on: buy six bottles and save 25%.

“The offer includes selected bottles with red, white and rose options, as well as prosecco. There are usually lots of popular bottles included, for example, Oyster Bay Hawkes Bay Merlot, Oyster Bay Hawkes Bay Merlot and Freixenet Prosecco D.O.C.

“Obviously, the more expensive the bottles you choose, the more you save.”

Join Facebook groups

The savvy saver also recommends that fans of Asda join Facebook groups to keep in the know about the latest bargains in-store.

Eilish said: “I recommend joining the Latest Deals Facebook Group to find out about the latest deals and new launches in store.

“Every day, more than 250,000 deal hunters share their latest bargain finds and new releases. 

“For example, recently a member shared a picture of Asda’s new Barbie range spotted in store.

“Another member shared the bargain outdoor plants she picked up, including roses for 47p, blackcurrant bushes for 14p and topiary trees for 14p.”

Billie Faiers Orange Tie Neck Satin Maxi Dress

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Christina was seriously impressed with the collectionCredit: ASDA
ISKA Orange Floral Frill Chiffon Bardot Midaxi Dress

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The maximum she paid was £45Credit: Asda



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Garden designer reveals £2.75 Tesco trick to turn plain gardens into lush rainforest paradise

DID you know there are rainforests in Britain? Nope – me neither.

But you may well have visited one without realising if you’ve holidayed in Cornwall, Wales or along the Atlantic Coastline.

Woman smiling in front of a rock garden with a small waterfall.

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Zoe Claymore with her Rainforest inspired show garden at Chelsea Flower ShowCredit: Clive Nichols
Young oak leaves growing in moss.

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Moss is a great indicator that you could be in a temperate rainforest in the UKCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
River flowing over mossy rocks in a forest.

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Adding any kind of water feature into your garden will help create a rainforest themeCredit: free for devon wildlife trust use.

Especially if you remember walking through green woodland packed with ferns, moss and lichen – with a really memorable earthy, damp scent.

They once covered more than 20 per cent of the UK – but history devoured them – and now there’s less than one per cent.

So the Wildlife Trust, sponsored by Aviva, has just launched an epic 100-year restoration project to bring them back.

The temperate rainforest restoration programme will restore approximately 1,755 hectares of temperate rainforest across the British Isles. 

Some of the new sites created through this programme include Bowden Pillars in Devon, Bryn Ifan in North Wales, Creg y Cowin and Glion Darragh on the Isle of Man, Trellwyn Fach in Pembrokeshire, and – most recently – Skiddaw in Cumbria.

Garden Designer Zoe Claymore, won a silver gilt medal at RHS Chelsea for her British Rainforest Garden.

She told me: “I didn’t know it at the time – but I played in a British rainforest as a child. The end of my grandparents garden in Devon went into Lidford Gorge which is one of the last existing rainforests.

“In the UK they’re found in the Goldilocks zone – not too hot, not too cold – and by rivers, gullies and gorges, because you also need the moisture from the river creating that ecosystem.”

But there are ways of recreating one in your own garden, she said.

“Even if  you don’t live in an area suited to creating a rainforest there’s other plants that will create the same vibes.

Mums are raving about an indoor tropical rainforest attraction in the UK

“Create shade with Hazels – they’re a great small tree which gives a real native-feel and perfect for small gardens. Or include hollies, birch or willows.

“Create a water feature – from a little stream with a few rocks or simply as an old-school rock water bowl – to  create that sense of humidity.

“But even if you just did a pond in a pot surrounded by some fun little logs, that will create habitat, that will bring wildlife, and it will create that kind of feeling of rainforest-y wetness.”

It’s easy to make a home made pond – using old washing up bowls. Tesco’s are currently selling one for just £2.75.

First choose a spot that’s sunny but not in direct sunlight all day – otherwise the water will evaporate.

Then all you have to do is put some logs around it, and a few stones, so wildlife can climb in and out easily – almost like a ramp.

Ideally fill it with rain water rather than tap.

And then put in about three water plants – like mini water lillies or water forget-me-not and sit back waiting for the wildlife.

Zoe added: “Then use British classic woodland plants and really focus on ferns – the unsung beautiful heroes of shade gardening – as well as bluebells, foxgloves, primulars, ivy, bananas and – if you’ve got a wet area – moss – which is the jewel in the crown – so your garden will be green all year round.”

For a ‘how to’ guide adapted to all UK gardens – as well as a rainforest-inspired pot combination  – head to www.zoeclaymore.com – and a share of the proceeds will go the Wildlife Trust.

Also in Veronica’s Column this week…

Gardening tips, news, plant of the week and a competition to win a garden border worth £195

PLANT OF THE WEEK! Dierama Wind Nymph Pink – pictured above – clump forming perennial with slender arching stems with soft pink blooms and evergreen foliage. Bees love it. Plant in direct sunlight, likes well drained soil but might need protection in Winter.

NEWS! A dad’s 60-year-old lawnmower has taken its place in gardening history as the UK’s oldest Flymo – after he read a plea in Sun Gardening

Pete Goddard’s monumental mower was inducted into the British Lawnmower Museum in Southport, Merseyside, last week after Flymo sent out a request for old mowers. 

The rare blue Flymo was unveiled last month – taking its place in the museum alongside King Charles, Brian May, and Nicholas Parsons’ former mowers.

It came after a nationwide search for the UK’s oldest Flymo to celebrate 60 years since the iconic hover mower was invented.

The 79-year-old retired Highway Maintenance Operative’s Flymo was originally bought in the 1960s by his father-in-law and lovingly maintained across three generations – and still works today.

NEWS! Great Comp Gardens will show off some salvias not released to the general public before – at it’s  annual Summer Show next weekend. 

The seven acre garden in Platt, near Sevenoaks will be at it’s best – with the hot and cool border in bloom, salvias bringing swathes of colour to the perennial borders and the Italian Garden in full flower in time for their annual two-day flagship event. 

The weekend event features a group of talented artists, craftspeople, award-winning nurseries and garden ornamental suppliers plus live jazz bands on the lawn.

Curator William Dyson says: “We can’t wait to share the garden with our Summer Show visitors – it looks particularly splendid in August with the salvias in full flow.

“We’ve also introduced lots of new and interesting plants to the garden this year including a collection of new world salvias that we’ve inherited from Lindsay Pink (a collector in Portsmouth) that people won’t have seen before. 

“We urge people to come along and see our revamped planting schemes which help to showcase new salvias that we have been keeping under wraps until now. There are salvias that I’ve only seen once before and can’t wait to show people. We are mixing in drifts of South American annuals like Cosmos for interest and colour and Tagetes erecta (Mexican marigolds) plus lots of varieties of dahlias.”

For more info visit www.greatcompgarden.co.uk

WIN! Garden on a Roll – which provide ready-made garden border paper templates, and the plants to put them in – are offering three £195 borders at 3m x 60cm of any style – including the  ‘Wildlife border’ for bees and butterflies. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/GardenBorders, or write to Garden on a Roll competition,  PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. August 16, 2025. T&Cs apply

JOB OF THE WEEK! Stake your dahlias, trim your lavenders, take fuchsia cuttings, prune climbing and rambling roses, add tomato food to corn and peppers.

For more gardening content follow me @biros_and_bloom



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Millions of Tesco shoppers can get cheaper easyJet holidays this summer

Eligible customers can pick from more than 100 holiday destinations at a discounted rate

Happy woman boarding the airplane and looking at camera.
Millions of people in the UK could benefit from discounted holidays this summer(Image: Getty)

Millions of Tesco shoppers could benefit from discounted holidays this summer. Anyone with a Clubcard could use their points to get cheaper deals from easyJet.

According to the supermarket, there are thousands of holidays to choose from, covering a range of budgets. The scheme uses your existing Clubcard vouchers, which are accumulated from points when you shop at Tesco.

These can then be exchanged for easyJet holiday credit, making them worth twice the value they were previously. This means that for every 50p in Clubcard vouchers you have, you will get £1 to use with easyJet.

The Tesco website explains: “Choose from thousands of hand-picked hotels in Europe and beyond, with a range to suit any budget. easyJet holidays has departures to over 100 destinations from airports all around the UK, often with daily or more frequent flights, meaning you can tailor your travel plans to suit you.

easyJet plane
For every 50p in Tesco Clubcard points you have you can get £1 to spend with easyJet holidays(Image: Getty)

“Their collection of more than 5,000 hotels has everything from luxury all-inclusive, boutique city retreats and family friendly beach side resorts. Whatever you’re looking for, you can holiday with confidence with a dedicated 24 hour UK-based support team and flexibility to change your booking if plans change.

“Tempted? Exchange your Clubcard vouchers and get 2x the value, then book your package holiday at an unbeatable price with total confidence. Did we mention that all holidays are ATOL and ABTA protected too?”

How to claim your holiday

Firstly, you must make sure you have an easyJet holidays online account that matches your Tesco account email address. Your easyJet holidays account email must match the one you use for your Tesco Clubcard account.

You must then select the right amount to exchange. However, if your order exceeds the maximum annual easyJet holidays credit allowance (£300 Clubcard Voucher value = £600 easyJet holidays credit), the order will be cancelled and the Tesco Clubcard points will be refunded to your account.

Woman on the beach
easyJet holidays has departures to over 100 destinations from airports all around the UK,(Image: Getty)

Tesco.com added: “Please note, once you exchange your Clubcard vouchers for easyJet holidays credit, this is non refundable. Any unused easyJet holidays credit will not be refunded, credited, or exchanged, so only exchange the amount you need.”

You will then receive an order confirmation email. A second email will follow once easyJet holidays have validated your order.

It will contain information on how to access your easyJet holidays credit. This means you can then visit easyJet holidays to book your package holiday.

You must also remember that easyJet holidays credit is only valid for six months from the date you exchange your Clubcard vouchers. Within a 12 month period, the maximum you can exchange is £300 in Clubcard vouchers (£600 easyJet holidays credit).

You cannot use your easyJet holidays credit to book standalone easyJet flights and you must be one of the travel party on the holiday booking. You cannot share, combine or pool your easyJet holidays account(s), or credit with other family members or friends.

As of 2024, around 23 million households in the UK were registered for a Tesco Clubcard. For more information on how to claim your holiday, visit the Tesco website here.

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Garden furniture set 25% off at Morrisons… but here’s why shopper said ‘glad I didn’t get there sooner’

ONE shopper has said they’re glad they didn’t get to a Morrisons sale any sooner after the retailer slashed the price of garden furniture.

The customer timed their visit to coincide with a 25 per cent price cut on a garden furniture set for members signed up to its rewards scheme.

Box showing a four-piece patio set.

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The Nutmeg patio set is selling for £18 less than usualCredit: Facebook/@Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group

The Nutmeg Outdoor Sofa Set from Morrisons is now selling for £18 less than usual.

That is, if you’re signed up to Morrisons More Card scheme.

The More Card scheme offers money off specific items at Morrisons, using the More App which shows offers.

Members can also find printed coupons at the check out to use on price savings.

And right now, the scheme can be used to grab a cracking outdoor sofa set for just £72.

It’s just in time for summer, as you can make full use of it straight away to your vitamin D fix in.

The set consists of two single chairs, and a double sofa – perfect for hosting a get together with friends or family in the garden.

One happy shopper on Facebook celebrated not buying the set any earlier, so she could make full use of the deal.

She said: “Glad now I didn’t manage to get to Morrisons sooner.

“I got an extra 25% off with More Card, so I paid £54 – bargain!”

I was so excited when I nabbed a £2.49 Morrisons Too Good To Go bag – but what I found inside made me feel sick

Another happy punter who appears to have got there a bit sooner, added: “We got this a couple of years ago still going strong.”

This comes as Morrisons has launched a huge summer clearance sale on a range of garden products.

An eager shopper who spotted the offer at her local Morrisons shared the deal on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK Facebook page.

Other customers quickly expressed their excitement as they ran to make the most of the affordable prices.

Some of the items on offer had even had their price slashed by 50 per cent.

It included the Nutmeg Outdoor three-piece bistro set for £50, reduced from £100.

The product comes with a table and two chairs featuring comfortable cushions, helping you get your garden summer-ready on a budget.

If you’re needing a more heavy-duty umbrella set up, they’ve also got a parasol base weight for just £35.

Those looking to splash a bit more cash might be interested in Morrisons’ hanging egg chair.

For £95 – reduced from £140 – it’s a great centrepiece for your garden.

Now that your garden is well-equipped to host, it’s time to stock up on barbecue supplies.

For just £8 Morrisons are selling a convenient portable barbecue.

Supermarket loyalty schemes – which has one?

MOST UK supermarkets have loyalty schemes so customers can build up points and save money while they shop.

Here we round up what saving programmes you’ll find at the big brands.

  • Iceland: Unlike other stores, you don’t collect points with the Iceland Bonus Card. Instead, you load it up with money and Iceland will give you £1 for every £20 you save.
  • Lidl Plus: Lidl customers don’t collect points when they shop, and are instead rewarded with personalised vouchers that gives them money off at the till.
  • Morrisons: The My Morrisons: Make Good Things Happen replaces the More Card and rewards customers with personalised money off vouchers via the app.
  • Sainsbury’s: While Sainsbury’s doesn’t have a personal scheme, it does own the Nectar card which can also be used in Argos, eBay and other shops. You need 200 Nectar points to save up £1 to spend on your card. You need to spend at least £1 to get one Nectar point.
  • Tesco: Tesco Clubcard has over 17million members in the UK alone. You use it each time you shop and build up points that can be turned into vouchers – 150 points gets you a £1.50 voucher. Here you need to spend £1 in Tesco to get one point.
  • Waitrose: myWaitrose also doesn’t allow you to collect points but instead you’ll get access to free hot drinks, and discounts off certain brands in store.
Morrisons receipt showing purchase of a nutmeg sofa set.

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One shopper was so ecstatic she posted a receipt of her purchase online to prove her savingsCredit: Facebook/@Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group

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Tesco launches clearance sale of £9 decoration that glows in the dark, changes colours & is perfect for breezy nights

TESCO is launching a clearance sale of a neat decoration which is perfect for sprucing up any garden.

The popular product will set you back less than a tenner.

Tesco solar bubble wind chime in packaging.

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The wind chime can be found in the clearance section of storesCredit: Facebook
Solar-powered wind chime with light-up bubble.

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Tesco Solar Bubble Wind ChimeCredit: Tesco

Tesco have launched a clearance sale of its Solar Bubble Wind Chime for just £9.

This low price will only last until next month, as the sale period extends only from 28/04/2025 until 14/07/2025.

From July 7, the product will return to its full price of £10.

The chime offers multicoloured lights which will brighten up any outdoor space this summertime.

It’s also solar-powered, meaning the device is self-sufficient for its energy.

Punters haven’t hesitated to heap praise on the product.

One customer, who purchased the item before the sale last year, said:

“It was a present and bigger than i expected it to be (for the price).

“The chime has lovely colours when lit up – I’m very pleased with it.”

Another added: “Lovely and nice.

“I would like to buy more if possible.”

This comes after Tesco slashed the price of it’s mini BBQ by almost three quarters earlier this month.

It reduced the price from £80 to just £24.

Sadly, this sale only ran until June 8 – but the item can still be purchased.

The oven, which comes with an in-built thermometer, can be placed on top of gas or charcoal BBQs to heat up any food.

Tesco says it can also be used to cook meat, fish and more.

Shoppers buying the Haven pizza oven will have to pay a standard delivery charge of £3. Express delivery costs £4.99.

Anyone unhappy with the product can request a return or refund online up to 30 days after delivery date.

Earlier this year, Tesco again launched a major sale on a range og winter warmers.

Silentnight’s Grey Teddy Fleece Reversible Double Duvet Set led the range of discounts with its 70% saving.

Two eagle-eyed shoppers had spotted the deals at their local Tesco stores in Wellingborough and Shrewsbury and shared the news on Facebook group “Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group”.

The duvet set typically retails for £33 and is described as “supremely snuggly” and “luxuriously soft”.

It comes with both the duvet cover itself and two pillowcases, all sharing the same grey colour.

This set joined a range of other products also on clearance sale, including a selection of towels.

Tesco logo on a store building.

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Tesco have had various clearance sales this yearCredit: Getty

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All the supermarkets slashing prices of school uniforms this week – and items start from £1.50

A HOST of major supermarkets have slashed the price of school uniform ahead of the new academic year.

The cost of getting kids back to school isn’t cheap but you could save some cash on clothes this week.

Two school children in uniform walking to school.

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Major supermarkets have slashed the price of their school uniformsCredit: Alamy

Asda, Aldi and Tesco have all dropped prices on their uniform bits or are launching bundle offers with prices starting from £1.50.

We’ve rounded up all the deals below.

Of course, always remember to shop around when buying any product, not least school uniform.

Compare prices via price comparison sites like Trolley, Price Spy and Price Runner to see if you’ve found the best deal on any given item.

The Google Shopping/Product tab will give you a basic indication on whether what you’ve found is well-priced as well.

That said, research by The Sun has found Aldi and Lidl are offering the lowest prices this year.

Asda

Asda has slashed prices on hundreds of school uniform bits with 20% off trousers, shirts and polos.

Prices start from £1.60 for crew neck t-shirts and range up to £16 for five-packs of slim leg boys trousers.

Parents can also buy hoodies for £4, jersey skirts for £5.60 and five-packs of long sleeve tops for £12.

Shoppers on Facebook claim the 20% off offer is running in stores as well.

We have asked Asda if it is available across all stores and what date the offer is running until both online and in-store and will update this story when we’ve heard back.

Aldi

German discounter Aldi is bringing back it’s popular £5 school uniform bundle deal on Sunday (June 29).

The bundle includes two polo shirts, a sweatshirt or cardigan, and a choice of trousers, skirt or cargo shorts – all for a fiver.

Shoppers can’t buy the bundle online as Aldi doesn’t offer a home delivery service.

As with all Aldi Specialbuys, you’ll need to act fast as once they’re gone, they’re gone.

You don’t have to buy the whole bundle and can buy individual uniform items, with prices starting from £1.50.

Sizes are available for kids aged four to 12.

Tesco

Tesco has launched a 25% off sale on its school uniform bits in store and online for Clubcard customers.

You can sign up for a Clubcard for free via the Tesco website or by downloading the app for free on to your smartphone.

The offer is running until June 29, with non-Clubcard prices starting from £3 (£2.25 for Clubcard) for a two-pack of crew neck t-shirt.

Sizes are available for kids aged between four and 16.

If you can’t afford to buy school uniform now, Tesco is re-running the 25% off offer between July 22 and July 27.

Alongside the school uniform deal, shoppers can pick up stationery with prices starting from 25p.

How to get discounts on school uniforms

Senior consumer reporter Blathnaid Corless reveals how you can cut costs…

Grants to help with school uniform costs are offered by several councils across England, with up to £200 free cash available to parents.

The Household Support Fund (HSF) is designed to help those on a low income, benefits, or classed as vulnerable.

To apply, you’ll need to get in touch with your local council. Most councils have pages on their website dedicated to the HSF, while you can also call your local authority to find out if you are eligible for the support scheme.

Unlike in England, all local authorities in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales offer school uniform grants.

It’s also worth checking out your local charity shop to see what’s on offer.

Some charity shops have deals with uniform manufacturers and retailers meaning you can get brand new items at bargain prices.

Meanwhile, many schools and community groups run second-hand uniform exchanges where parents can find and donate uniforms.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

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Shoppers race to nab Terry’s Chocolate Oranges are slashed to £1.50 ahead of Father’s Day & there’s 2 flavours

WITH Father’s Day just around the corner, Morrison’s deal on Terry’s Chocolate Oranges has come at the perfect time.

The major supermarket has slashed the price of the beloved chocolate favourite and shoppers can choose from two different flavours.

Display of Terry's Chocolate Oranges and Terry's Chocolate Mints on sale.

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Terry’s Chocolate Oranges are popular chocolate around the worldCredit: Facebook

Morrisons is selling the 90g ball in both the original and mint flavours for £1.50, for those with a member’s card.

The full price of the tasty treat is usually £2 and the reduced price is also cheaper than what Sainsbury’s and Tesco sell it for, which is £1.95 at both supermarkets.

Even with a Tesco Clubcard, Terry’s Chocolate Orange 90g costs £1.75, making the Morrisons offer cheaper.

Terry’s Chocolate Orange is a much-loved icon in the confectionery world and has been available to buy since 1932.

Around 44 million of the zesty treats are sold globally each year, so the brand has to tread carefully so as not to offend die-hard fans with new flavours.

Earlier this year, a TikTok account @belongwealth posted a video blowing viewers away, divulging a little-known secret about the household name.

The clip revealed that the iconic brand had another delicious product predating the chocolate orange.. the chocolate apple.

The poster gave some context to the history of the product, saying: “In 1926, Terry’s Chocolate Works, a family run factory in York, released a dessert chocolate apple.

“It did pretty well, so in 1932 they released a dessert chocolate orange, which did really well.”

According to the TikToker, the chocolate apple did not have the longevity of the orange ball we know and love today because during World War 2, the Terry’s chocolate factory was taken over to use as a base for building aircraft blades.

After the war, the factory was returned to the Terry’s.

But due to rationing and limitations on cocoa imports, the company phased out the less popular chocolate apple and focused on the much-loved orange.

How to save money on chocolate

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

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Currently, the Terry’s website lists the classic milk chocolate orange, dark chocolate orange, mint orange, plain milk chocolate, toffee crunch orange and exploding candy orange.

Morrisons supermarket entrance in London.

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Morrisons has a great deal on two flavours of Terrys Chocolate OrangeCredit: Getty Images – Getty



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I tried supermarket Pizza Express dupes – my £1.99 tastes just as good as the original and it’s HALF the price

SUPERMARKET shoppers love reaching for a Pizza Express pizza – but can you find an own-brand one that’s just as good?

They can be pricey when compared to supermarket own brands.

Woman presenting various frozen Margherita pizzas.

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Natasha Harding tested Pizza Express dupes

At the moment a Margherita will set you back between £4.35 – £6.00 depending on where you buy it.

Natasha Harding tried six supermarket brands and compared them to Pizza Express Margherita pizza – and rated them all out of 30.

Pizza Express Margherita Pizza

£4.35 (when bought with Nectar), Sainsbury’s

Per 100g: calories, 263 fat, 8.7g sugar, 3.4g salt 0.93g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Pizza Express...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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The Pizza Express pizza has a good amount of toppings

If the secret to a good pizza is in the dough, then Pizza Express hits the spot.

The base cooked to perfection and it was a good size for two people.

There was a good amount of topping and it cooked evenly in about 12 minutes.

However, there are other pizzas that taste just as good for a fraction of the cost.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 5/10
Overall rating: 6/10
Out of 30: 19

You can now buy the ‘world’s first air fryer pizza’ in Tesco & people are saying they are perfect for lazy cooks

Carlos Stonebaked Pizza

£1.99, Aldi, Aldi

Per 100g: calories, 308 fat, 10.2g sugar, 4g salt 1.09g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Carlos...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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Aldi’s pizza cooked in 12 minutes

It cooked nicely in 12 minutes and was big enough to feed four people.

The base was deliciously crispy and the cheese and tomato topping tasted authentically Italian.

I haven’t tried this flavour from Aldi before, but absolutely will in the future – my winner – and less than half the price of Pizza Express, that’s dinner sorted.

Taste: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 10/10
Out of 30: 30

Cheese & Tomato Pizza

£1.90, Sainsbury’s

Per 100g: calories, 298 fat, 9g sugar, 2.6g salt 0.76g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Sainsburys...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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Sainsbury’s pizza costs £1.90

Good value and a perfect size for two.

I wasn’t so keen on this one as I thought it was a bit bland and there wasn’t enough cheese to tempt my tastebuds.

However, my daughter and her friend loved it and she’s asked if she can have it for tea regularly.

At that price, I’m happy to oblige – and if I join her, I’ll add extra cheese on my half.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 7/10
Out of 30: 25

Stonebaked Margherita Pizza

£2.58, Asda

Per 100g: calories, 238 fat, 7.7g sugar, 3.9g salt 1.09g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Asda...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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Asda’a pizza offered good value for money

It cooked well in just over 12 minutes and the generous size means it would satisfy four people, especially if you add a couple of sides.

The topping was plentiful and the fact that you’re getting a lot of pizza for your money means that this is a good staple for a family if you’re unsure what to serve up for dinner.

Taste: 9/10
Value: 7/10
Overall rating: 8/10
Out of 30: 24

Chef Select, Stonebaked Margherita Pizza

£1.99, Lidl

Per 100g: calories, 254 fat, 8.6g sugar, 2.3g salt 1.08g

Stonebaked Margherita pizza package.

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Natasha was not keen on Lidl’s pizza

Another well priced pizza but I wasn’t so keen on the taste.

The tomato had an intense, slightly synthetic taste that I couldn’t get away from.

The cheese was generous and tasted great – and it cooked to perfection.

If you like a stronger taste sensation, it might be one for you but it’s not one I’d be keen to buy again.

Taste: 6/10
Value: 10/10
Overall rating: 7/10
Out of 30: 23

Classic Margherita

£3.10, Tesco

Per 100g: calories, 259 fat, 7g sugar, 2.8g salt 0.75g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Tesco...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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Tesco’s pizza is generously sized

It cooked nicely in just over ten minutes and looked very appealing once it was ready.

It was generously sized and the base was just the right consistency of being thick enough but crispy too.

It was oh so cheesy which hit the spot for me – I’d definitely buy it again if I needed a cheese fix.

Taste: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Overall rating: 8/10
Out of 30: 23

Essential Cheese & Tomato Pizza

£2.75, Waitrose

Per 100g: calories, 260 fat, 8g sugar, 4.6g salt .75g

Sun Features: Tried & Tested - Natasha Harding and Pizzas v Pizza Express..Waitrose...Pic © Neil Hope / The Sun.Tel: 01752 814338 .Mob: 07505 263 011.Email: neil.hope@talktalk.net.Web: www.divingimages.co.uk

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Natasha felt let down by Waitrose’ Pizza

I felt a bit let down by Waitrose offering as the Essential range is fantastic.

The base was a bit thin, and it could have done with some extra toppings as it felt a bit lacklustre.

If I was to buy it again, it would be as a base to add some extra ingredients to.

Taste: 6/10
Value: 6/10
Overall rating: 6/10
Out of 30: 18

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Fury as ‘disgusting’ Cadbury cuts size of popular multipack from six bars to four but keeps price the SAME

CHOC-lovers are fuming after Cadbury reduced the size of its Dairy Milk Little Bars multipacks by a third.

New packs of four are being sold for £1.40, even though packs of six cost the same last month.

Cadbury Dairy Milk Little Bars multipack (4 bars).

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Choc-lovers are fuming after Cadbury reduced the size of its Dairy Milk Little Bars multipacks by a third

The change has been blasted by shoppers, including many parents who bought them as kids’ snacks.

One fumed on the Tesco website: “Advertised as new, only thing new is you get 4 instead of 6!! For the same price. Disgusting!”

A second said: “Stop reducing how much is in the packet and charging the same price!!!”

A third added: “Was a six pack now a four pack for the same price, a third less chocolate, unacceptable shrinkflation.”

Read More on SHRINKFLATION

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

Cadbury said: “We understand the economic pressures that consumers continue to face and any changes to our product sizes is a last resort for our business.

“However, as a food producer, we are continuing to experience significantly higher input costs across our supply chain, with ingredients such as cocoa and dairy, which are widely used in our products, costing far more than they have done previously.

“Meanwhile, other costs like energy and transport, also remain high. This means that our products continue to be much more expensive to make and while we have absorbed these costs where possible, we still face considerable challenges

“As a result of this difficult environment, we have had to make the decision to slightly reduce the weight of our Cadbury Dairy Milk Little Bars multipacks so that we can continue to provide consumers with the brands they love, without compromising on the great taste and quality they expect.”

Dan Coatsworth, analyst at the investment firm AJ Bell, explained: “The cost of producing chocolate has gone up a lot in recent years, driving up prices and prompting firms to make products smaller.

We’ve outdone ourselves with this one’ say Cadbury Ireland as they reveal new limited edition bar ‘coming soon

“When production costs rocket, companies only have a limited range of options.

“They can pass on the costs to the customer through higher prices, which is difficult with a product like chocolate where people are often looking for a cheap treat.

“Another option is to reduce the size of the product in order to reduce the manufacturing cost for each bar of chocolate. Or they can try a combination of the two.

“As a last resort, companies may have to tolerate lower profit margins, especially if consumers refuse to tolerate price rises and stop buying.”

The British Retail Consortium said global cocoa prices are around three times higher than in 2022, after being badly affected by poor harvests in parts of Africa.

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Shoppers devastated as Tesco axes popular snack from stores

TESCO has axed a popular product, leaving customers devastated.

Its store brand southern fried chicken instant flavour noodles has now permanently disappeared from supermarket shelves.

Package of Tesco Southern Fried Chicken Flavour Instant Noodles.

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Tesco shoppers have been wondering where the popular snack had goneCredit: REDDIT

The snack, which can be made with boiling water, was a fan favourite with shoppers.

It cost around 50p and was available in store and online.

Confused customers have taken to social media to find out where the popular snack had gone.

Writing in a Reddit thread one shopper said: “These are my go to quick food and my local Tesco has none on the shelf and they’ve disappeared off of the website too.

“I’ll be gutted if they’ve discontinued them.”

Another fan replied: “Probably, if you liked them, these stores always stop what people like!

The Sun reached out to Tesco to find out what happened to the savoury snack

The supermarket confirmed the product was no more, adding that it had been replaced with a Chicken flavour that customers could buy.

The news will come as a blow to customers who in the past said it was the only noodles they “enjoy” to eat.

Some customers said Super Noodles make a similar product for a quid, but the upset shopper said they were too dear.

I’m 5’3 and a size 10 – Tesco is killing it with their summer co-ords, my haul was amazing & I got 25% off everything too

Another said Pot Noodles lost the pot chicken champion, could be an alternative and also costs 50p.

It’s not the first time that Tesco has axed a popular product.

Shoppers were heartbroken when Tesco cut its own-brand tomato and basil soup from its chilled range.

Tesco stated that it adjusts its soup range throughout the year to reflect seasonal demand.

The supermarket will expand its offering again in the autumn.

Tesco shoppers were also shocked to find the supermarket no longer stocks six-pint cartons of milk.

OTHER DISCONTINUED PRODUCTS

Tesco is not the only supermarket that has shaken up what it sells in stores.

Asda also recently confirmed it has discontinued its store-brand Creamy Peppercorn Sauce.

The Sun revealed that Alpen cereal bars have permanently disappeared from supermarket shelves.

The snack, usually topped with chocolate or yogurt, has been a staple in many Brits kitchen cupboards since the early noughties.

Alpen bars were also loved by many watching what they eat or following a Slimming World or Weight Watchers diet plan, as the treat was low in calories.

Alpen’s entire cereal bar range, which includes Alpen Light and Alpen Delight has been discontinued.

However shoppers can continue to buy it’s range of muesli, which costs around £3 from major supermarkets.

Kellogg’s also recently confirmed it’s not bringing back its chocolate flavour Corn Flakes.

Why are products axed or recipes changed?

ANALYSIS by chief consumer reporter James Flanders.

Food and drinks makers have been known to tweak their recipes or axe items altogether.

They often say that this is down to the changing tastes of customers.

There are several reasons why this could be done.

For example, government regulation, like the “sugar tax,” forces firms to change their recipes.

Some manufacturers might choose to tweak ingredients to cut costs.

They may opt for a cheaper alternative, especially when costs are rising to keep prices stable.

For example, Tango Cherry disappeared from shelves in 2018.

It has recently returned after six years away but as a sugar-free version.

Fanta removed sweetener from its sugar-free alternative earlier this year.

Suntory tweaked the flavour of its flagship Lucozade Original and Orange energy drinks.

While the amount of sugar in every bottle remains unchanged, the supplier swapped out the sweetener aspartame for sucralose.

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Five tips to give leftover vegetables a second chance with a ‘wow’ factor

HAVING family over soon but stuck for ideas as well as cash?

You could jazz up dishes, for added wow factor, just by using leftover uncooked veg to knock up some pickle or relish. Here’s some ideas . . . 

RECYCLE OLD JARS: You will need jars to put your pickle or relish in, and could get a 12-pack of 300ml ones at Hobbycraft for £9, but the cheapest way to get started is to reuse empty jam or sauce jars.

Give them a good wash, or pop in the dishwasher then use boiling water to rinse.

TANGY TREAT: Pickled red onions are easy. Finely slice the onion, pop in a jar, cover with white wine vinegar, £2 at Sainsbury’s, and add a pinch of salt and of sugar.

Put the lid on and shake, leave for 20 minutes before trying — adding more vinegar, salt or sugar as you think best.

Pop in the fridge and use on everything from tacos to sarnies.

SPICE OF LIFE: Slice up any spare chilli peppers and pop in a jar.

Then put 100ml of water in a pan and heat on the stove with a few teaspoons of sugar and one of salt, plus you could add mustard seeds or bay leaves from your spice rack. Bring to the boil then pour the liquid into the jar.

Carefully put the lid on the jar and leave to cool. Once at room temperature, store in the fridge and the chillis should keep for a few months.

CRUNCHY RELISH: Use up any mini- cucumbers or radishes to make a tasty relish.

Slice your veg and keep it crunchy by adding to a sieve with ice cubes for ten to 20 minutes before pickling.

I’ve figured out how to make the perfect fried eggs – it’s so simple, works every time and you don’t even need any oil

Make a brine following the same instructions as before, leave to cool and add to the jar with your veg.

You can also add onion, and herbs such as dill, for extra flavour.

PASS THE CARROTS: The key for great pickled carrots is to cut them up into very fine matchsticks or use a peeler to create shavings.

Follow the same brine instructions as above, but add some rice wine vinegar if you have it, as well as a dash of fish sauce.

Once cooled and refrigerated, you can use these on Asian dishes such as dumplings or stir fries.

  • All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Three jars of pickled vegetables.

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Combine leftover vegetables and empty jars for easy storageCredit: Getty

Deal of the day

Black Graco stroller.

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This Graco Myavo Stroller is currently reduced to £99.99Credit: Supplied

PICK up the Graco Myavo Stroller in midnight black at smythstoys.com – usually £124.99, now £99.99 as part of the baby goods sale.

SAVE: £25

Cheap treat

Pot Noodle Original Curry Flavour 90g cup.

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Iceland is selling Curry pot noodles at a 53p discountCredit: Supplied

TUCK into a Curry Pot Noodle from Iceland. They were £1.20 each, now down to 67p.

SAVE: 53p

What’s new

Yin and yang charm with clear and black enamel.

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Pandora currently has a 40 per cent sale, making it the ideal time to buy a giftCredit: Supplied

CHARM your way into a loved one’s heart with a gift from Pandora.

The summer sale is now on, with up to 40 per cent off the popular charms and jewellery.

Top swap

Dior eyebrow pencil with spoolie.

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The Diorshow brow styler costs £24.95Credit: Supplied
e.l.f. eyebrow pencil with spoolie.

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The budget e.l.f. Instant Lift brow pencil is just £3 at BootsCredit: Supplied

GIVE brows a makeover using the Diorshow brow styler, above, £24.95, or try the budget e.l.f. Instant Lift brow pencil, below, £3, both Boots.

SAVE: £21.95

Little helper

PLANNING a BBQ?

Co-op members can get two meat packs for £5.50 (£6.50 non-members).

Minted lamb kebabs are usually £4.70, so it’s a £3.90 saving with the deal.

Shop and save

Rectangular woven basket with a white fabric liner.

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Dunelm has a discount on this stylish storage trunkCredit: Supplied

HIDE clutter in a stylish storage trunk. This Remy basket was £25 and is now down to £20 at Dunelm.

SAVE: £5

Hot right now

STOCK up on your favourite beers at Morrisons with an offer of three packs for £30, saving around £9.

Includes ten-packs of Estrella and Doom Bar.

PLAY NOW TO WIN £200

The Sun raffle ticket.

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Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle

JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.

Every month we’re giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers – whether you’re saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered.

Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.

The more codes you enter, the more tickets you’ll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!

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People are only just realising the real meaning behind the name Argos – and it may surprise you

YOU may have thumbed through an Argos catalogue over the years, but have you ever stopped to think about the name?

It turns out there is a key reason why the brand has its moniker – and its history is also tied to a popular supermarket too (and it’s not Sainsbury’s).

Argos store front with signage indicating click and collect only during COVID-19 pandemic.

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There is a key reason why Argos has its nameCredit: Getty
Ruins of the ancient town of Argos, Greece.

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Argos is named after the Greek city of ArgosCredit: Getty

The Argos name doesn’t come from its founder – Richard Tompkins – but is taken from the Greek city of Argos.

It was also chosen as it would feature high up in alphabetical brand listings.

The history behind the brand is even more fascinating than the name – and despite the brand now being owned by Sainsbury’s, its early ties were with Tesco.

In the 1960s, the founder of Tesco, Sir Jack Cohen, signed up his grocery store chain to the Green Shield Stamps scheme.

This meant that Tesco customers could get stamps when they bought products at his shop. 

They could then use stamps to buy products at the Green Shield Stamps catalogue stores which were located around the country.

The collaboration proved to be a huge success, and helped Tesco gain loyal customers.

It also helped Green Shield Stamps, who was owned by Richard Tompkins, and also gave him the idea that customers could also use cash to buy products from his catalogue. 

He decided to rebrand Green Shield Stamps as Argos in 1973.

Argos actually lost Tesco as a client around 1977, when they ditched using the Green Shield Stamps scheme and focused on lowering prices across the chain.

I visited Argos’ Clearance Store and couldn’t believe how cheap everything was

In 1979, Argos was purchased by British American Tobacco and stopped issuing stamps entirely.

Just over a decade later, Argos was demerged and floated back on the stock market, but had now become a recognisable household brand.

By 2010, over 20 million copies of the catalogue were printed, with many people buying them ahead of Christmas to choose presents.

While Argos had major ties to Tesco when it was launched, it now is owned by one of its main rivals.

Exterior of an Argos retail store.

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Many Argos stores have closed in recent years and have been integrated into Sainsbury’s supermarketsCredit: Getty

In April 2016, Argos’ parent Home Retail Group agreed to a £1.4 billion takeover by Sainsbury’s – but the brand has struggled over the past few years.

A large number of the high street Argos stores have closed over the past few years, with many being replaced by an Argos outlet in Sainsbury’s stores.

A spokesperson for Argos previously told The Sun: “The transformation of our Argos store and distribution network has been progressing at pace for several years now, improving availability, convenience and service for customers.

“As part of this, we are continuing to open new Argos stores and collection points in many of our Sainsbury’s supermarkets, enabling customers to purchase thousands of technology, home and toy products from Argos while picking up their groceries.”

HISTORY OF ARGOS

FOUNDED in 1972 by Richard Tompkins, Argos revolutionised the British retail landscape with its unique catalogue-based shopping model.

The first store opened in Canterbury, Kent and quickly expanded, becoming a household name.

Customers could browse the extensive Argos catalogue, fill out a purchase slip, and collect their items from the in-store collection point.

The retailer was sold to British American Tobacco Industries in 1979 for £32million before being demerged and listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1990.

In April 1998, the company was acquired by GUS plc.

Throughout the decades, Argos adapted to changing consumer habits, embracing e-commerce early on and launching its website in 1999.

This allowed customers to reserve items online for in-store pick-up, blending the convenience of digital shopping with the immediacy of physical retail.

By 2006, Argos became part of the Home Retail Group which was demerged from its parent GUS plc.

At the time, Home Retail Group also owned Homebase and Habitat.

In 2016, Argos, along with its Home Retail Group sister brand Habitat, was acquired by Sainsbury’s.

Since the acquisition, the Argos brand has been integrated into Sainsbury’s operations, significantly expanding its presence through dedicated concessions within Sainsbury’s supermarkets across the UK.

However, due to declining sales, Sainsbury’s discontinued Argos’ iconic printed catalogue in 2020.

Despite these setbacks, Argos has remained true to its roots, offering a wide range of products from toys and electronics to furniture and jewellery.

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I tried supermarket Cornish pasties – my 99p own-brand winner tastes better and is cheaper than Ginsters

A WHOPPING 120 million Cornish pasties are baked every year in the UK, making them one of the nation’s favourite snacks.

Genuine bakes must be made in the namesake country, contain at least 12.5 per cent beef and 25 per cent root veg.

Woman holding a pasty and a board of pasties.

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We tested a whole range of pastiesCredit: Oliver Dixon

But not all of us can make it to the South West to try one, so how do the supermarket options measure up?

LYNSEY HOPE finds out:

Ginsters Original Cornish Pasty (227g)

  • £1.95 (£1.95 each)
  • Nutrition: 597 calories, 35g fat, 3.7g sugar, 2.1g salt
Package of Ginsters Original Cornish Pasties.

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Ginsters had a staggering 35g fatCredit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Given the high price and the somewhat shocking calorie, fat and sugar content, I didn’t want to like these.

“But I did.

“There was a good filling with 15% British beef as well as the traditional potato, swede and onion.

“It was big with a staggering 35g fat and nearly 600 calories – and very filling – definitely a meal as opposed to a snack.

“The pastry was rich and flavoursome though I didn’t like the added turmeric.

“Why mess with a classic?”

  • Taste: 4/5
  • Value: 4/5
  • Overall score: 8/10
Shopping discounts – How to make savings and find the best bargains

Tesco Cornish Pasties (520g)

  • £2.50 for 4 (62.5p each)
  • Nutrition: 364 calories, 23.3g fat, 9.5g fat, 2.6g sugar, 0.98g fat
Package of four Tesco Cornish pasties.

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Lynsey said: “A crowd-pleasing family pack for a good price”Credit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “These pasties came out smelling very appetising and they had a lovely pepperiness on the tongue.

“They are huge, proper wedges, and I liked the flakiness of the puff pastry.

“There’s a good helping of beef at 18 per cent and these had one of the highest levels of swede, at nine per cent.

“A crowd-pleasing family pack for a good price.”

  • Taste: 4/5
  • Value: 5/5
  • Overall score: 9/10

Asda Cornish Pasties (520g)

  • £2.74 for 4 (68.5p each)
  • Nutrition: 364 calories, 23g fat, 2.3g sugar, 0.86g salt
Package of four ASDA Cornish Pasties.

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The pasties were 18% beefCredit: Asda

Lynsey says: “Not the tastiest but they are good value and they are filled with a generous 18 per cent beef.

“The filling was dense but a lot of it was onion and it was definitely lacking in swede.

“It’s alright for a meal or snack but I fear pasty purists would not like this.”

  • Taste: 2/5
  • Value: 2/5
  • Overall score: 4/10

Morrisons Cornish Pasties (520g)

  • £3.20 (80p each)
  • Nutrition: 373 calories, 25.1g fat, 2.1g sugar, 1.16g salt
Package of four Morrison's Cornish Pasties.

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Morrisons’ pasties could have had more vegetablesCredit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Very similar to the Tesco pasties with a generous 19 per cent beef.

“The pastry was well cooked and they gave a nice peppery hit on the tongue.

“Perhaps too much spud – I’d have preferred more vegetables.

“Whilst there was seven per cent swede, there was no carrot that I could detect and too much onion.

“Overly salty, too.

“Over 17p more each than the Tesco pasties and not as nice.”

  • Taste: 3/5
  • Value: 3/5
  • Overall score: 6/10

M&S Cornish Pasties (300g)

  • £3.50 for 2 (£1.75 each)
Package of two M&S Cornish pasties.

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Lynsey said: “It was incredibly tasty”Credit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Unlike lots of other pasties we tried, this one was made with flaky pastry.

“It was a little fragile with lots of pastry breaking off when I tried to heat it in the oven.

“It was incredibly tasty though.

“The pastry was well-baked and the pasty itself was generously filled with heaps of meat, potato and swede.

“The meat is beef skirt, as per the traditional recipe, which made this juicy and lovely.

“Pricey – but a cut above the other supermarket options.”

  • Taste: 5/5
  • Value: 4/5
  • Overall score: 9/10

Aldi Crestwood Beef and Vegetable Pasty (200g)

  • 69p for 1 (69p each)
  • Nutrition: 544 calories, 28.5g fat, 3.1g sugar, 1.55g salt
Beef and vegetable pasty in plastic packaging.

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Aldi’s filling was bland and sloppyCredit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Aldi’s pasty has a Devon ‘crimp’ which means it is sealed on the top rather than traditional Cornish-style on the side.

“It looks great, very substantial and you can’t argue with the price.

“But the filling was bland and sloppy.

“It was lacking meaty flavour and the chunky texture you’d expect.

“Although there was 17 per cent beef, it was potato heavy and the carrots and swede inside were a bit mulchy.

“Very high in fat and calorific too.”

  • Taste: 2/5
  • Value: 3/5
  • Overall score: 5/10

How to save money on your supermarket shop

THERE are plenty of ways to save on your grocery shop.

You can look out for yellow or red stickers on products, which show when they’ve been reduced.

If the food is fresh, you’ll have to eat it quickly or freeze it for another time.

Making a list should also save you money, as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket.

Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too.

This means ditching “finest” or “luxury” products and instead going for “own” or value” type of lines.

Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes where you can get cheap prices if they’re misshapen or imperfect.

For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme, offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50.

If you’re on a low income and a parent, you may be able to get up to £442 a year in Healthy Start vouchers to use at the supermarket too.

Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support Fund.

Waitrose Mini Cornish Pasties (180g)

  • £3.75 for 6 (63.5p each)
  • Nutrition: 90 calories, 5.60g fat, 0.60g sugar, 0.19g salt
Box of Waitrose mini Cornish pasties.

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Waitrose’s pasties come to 63.5p eachCredit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Little pockets of delicious pastry but filled with air.

“The filling was nice but there was really only a teaspoon in each one.

“I enjoyed them immensely and loved the tiny size for a snack.

“They were incredibly moreish and I kept eating one every time I opened the fridge.

“I liked the meaty flavour of the beef and there was lots of swede.

“Whilst they contained palm oil like many of the others, it was sustainable.

“However, for the price, I’d have liked them to be fuller.”

  • Taste: 4/5
  • Value: 3/5
  • Overall score: 7/10

Lidl Chef Select Cornish Pasty (200g)

  • Nutrition: 597 calories, 35g fat, 3.7g sugar, 2.1g salt
Chef Select Cornish pasty package.

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Lynsey said “you could easily make a meal out of this”Credit: Oliver Dixon

Lynsey says: “Lidl‘s pasty was hefty and one of the most appetising on offer.

“After 20 minutes in the oven, the pastry was really nice and flaky and the filling was hearty and flavoursome.

“The meat was tender and not chewy and there as no gristle.

“Surprisingly, it was more expensive for a single pasty than many others, but it was huge so I still felt for less than a £1 it was excellent value for money.

“You could easily make a meal out of this.”

  • Taste: 5/5
  • Value: 5/5
  • Overall score: 10/10

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

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Tesco shoppers mock ‘VAR’-style cameras at self-checkout

Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images People use self-service checkouts in a large Tesco storeDukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Tesco’s introduction of AI technology to some self-checkouts has led to customers joking that it bears a striking resemblance to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology used in football.

The supermarket is aiming to reduce shoplifting by installing overhead cameras to identify when shoppers fail to scan an item properly, and then showing a live-action replay of the item not scanning.

While some shoppers mocked the tech, others complained it was a step too far, with some saying they would not use self-checkout again.

The move comes after shoplifting in the UK hit a record high in 2024.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that shoplifting offences recorded by police in England and Wales rose 20% last year to 516,971.

But the number of thefts recorded by retailers themselves is even higher. Figures from the British Retail Consortium suggest there were 20.4 million thefts in the year to last September, up 3.7 million on the year before, costing retailers £2bn.

‘The last item wasn’t scanned properly’

Tesco said it had rolled out the technology across some of its stores in a bid to help customers using self-service checkouts to identify if an item hasn’t scanned properly.

The supermarket said it would make the checkout process “quicker and easier”.

If an item fails to scan, customers are shown a video on the self-service screen of their attempt, accompanied by a message saying “The last item wasn’t scanned properly. Remove from bagging area and try again.”

It follows a similar move by Sainsbury’s, which has rolled out AI recognition technology at self-service checkouts at some of its stores.

“We regularly review the security measures in our stores and our decisions to implement them are based on a range of factors, including offering our customers a smooth checkout experience,” said a Sainsbury’s spokesperson.

‘Tuna disallowed’

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“VAR Decision – Tuna Disallowed,” joked one commenter on a video posted on Instagram showing the technology flagging an item that had failed to scan properly, which has had more than 3.5 million views.

“Clearly off side,” added another.

But on Bluesky, a user voiced fears that the technology could open the door to more surveillance measures. “What’s next? Drones to follow… you about the store?”

On Facebook, another user said he would “not use self-checkouts” after the technology was introduced.

Record shoplifting

The move marks the latest attempt by retailers to try to stem the rise in shoplifting.

Tesco has also introduced giant trolley scales at its Gateshead store, which prompted a similarly mixed response from shoppers earlier this year.

“Am I at border control or Tesco?” asked one Reddit user.

Last week Greggs announced that it will move its self-serve food and drinks behind the counter at sites where there are high levels of theft.

And in 2023, photos circulating on social media showed supermarkets had fitted products including steaks and cheese with security tags, while coffee was replaced with dummy jars.



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How to get free milk from supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda

EXPECTANT parents or those with young children may be able to get free milk from shops and supermarkets, thanks to a health eating scheme.

The initiative also provides nourishing food for free including fruit, vegetables and pulses.

Portrait of a 1 year baby girl

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Get free milk for your children through the NHS Healthy Start schemeCredit: Getty

The NHS Healthy Start scheme is available to those expecting a baby or with children under four.

You’ll also need be on selected benefits such as Universal Credit.

If you’re eligible you could get up to £442 a year for essentials to feed your family.

The scheme also provides free vitamins to mothers and children.

Here’s what you need to know…

Can I use Healthy Start?

To be accepted for Healthy Start, you’ll need to be on one of the following benefits:

  • Child Tax Credit (only if your family’s annual income is £16,190 or less
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Pension Credit ( including the child addition)
  • Universal Credit, if your family’s take-home pay is £408 or less per month from employment
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

However, if you’re under 18 and pregnant you can claim, even if you are not claiming any benefits.

How do I get the free food?

The funds to buy food is given through a prepaid card which can be used in any shop or supermarket that accepts Mastercard.

This includes major supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, as well as many smaller food shops.

The Healthy Start card is topped up every four weeks.

How much will I get?

You’ll get £4.25 each week of your pregnancy from the 10th week, £8.50 each week for children from birth to one, and £4.25 each week for children between one and four.

This works out as up to £442 worth of free food over a year.

The scheme stops when your child is four, or if you no longer receive benefits.

What can I use the card to buy?

With the funds you can buy plain cow’s milk or baby formula milk

You can also be used to buy fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables, as well as fresh, dried, and tinned pulses.

You can also use the card to get free vitamin supplements.

These are tablets for women and drops for children.

How do I get the vitamins?

Women can get Healthy Start vitamin tablets while they’re pregnant and up to their child’s 1st birthday.

Children can have free Healthy Start vitamin drops from the age of four weeks until their 4th birthday.

Children who are having 500ml or more of formula a day do not need Healthy Start vitamins.

How do I apply?

Apply for the healthy start scheme online on the government website.

You can also print out a paper form from the Heathy Start website here or ask for one from your GP or midwife.

If you can’t apply online, or you need help applying, contact NHS Healthy Start on 0300 330 7010 or by emailing [email protected]

To apply, you will need to provide some basic details such as you name and address, plus your National Insurance number and benefit award letter.

Are you missing out on benefits?

YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to

Charity Turn2Us’ benefits calculator works out what you could get.

Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.

MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.

You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.

Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.

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Five ways to upcycle your empty booze bottles into something new

IF you had a boozy bank holiday weekend, you might have a few empty bottles lying around.

Before you ditch them, try these great upcycling tricks to turn them into something new.

Glass bottle with fairy lights inside.

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Use our upcycling tricks to turn your empty bottles into something newCredit: Getty

LIGHT WORK: Clean out wine bottles and remove labels by soaking them in warm, soapy water.

Fill with battery-powered fairy lights, £3 at Poundland, for an instant glow and garden ambiance.

FLOWER POWER: Turn gin bottles into sleek vases by soaking off labels and painting with a light-coloured beige or cream matte paint using tester pots, from £1.50 at B&Q.

It will give your vase an on-trend ceramic look. Wrap twine around the neck for rustic charm. It will be perfect for displaying garden cuttings or supermarket blooms.

READ MORE MONEY SAVING TIPS

CLEAN UP: Ditch ugly detergent bottles by decanting them into a pretty empty bottle.

Gin bottles especially are a great swap for holding your washing-up liquid instead of the unsightly plastic bottles.

You can even buy a budget pourer or pump to place on top of your bottle for £2.50 at amazon.co.uk.

MINI SAVER: When thoroughly washed, use slim half-sized vodka bottles as toothbrush holders or a place to hold your cotton wool in the bathroom.

If you are crafty, these smaller bottles also are great to stash away for birthdays and Christmas gifts, just add homemade bath salts for a thoughtful budget present.

BEER WE GO: Carefully cut the tops off clean beer bottles with a £5 glass cutter from Homebase or Screwfix — it is a lot easier to do this than you would think.

I’m an upcycling furniture artist – I found an absolute gem that is packed with loads of fantastic treasure for the home

Then use them as mini tumblers, or mini plant pots to grow your own herbs, taken from sprigs of supermarket bunches. Try growing basil or mint and place on a sunny windowsill.

  • All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability

Deal of the day

Black patio set with umbrella.

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Try this Milano table and chairs patio set with parasolCredit: supplied

YOU can eat outdoors tonight if you pick up the Milano table and chairs patio set with parasol. It was £100 now £70 at B&M.

SAVE: £30

Cheap treat

Illustration of Twister mini pineapple ice pops.

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These Wall’s mini Twisters are £1.85 at IcelandCredit: Supplied

SCOFF a Wall’s mini Twister after dinner. A pack of six was £2.75 now £1.85 at Iceland.

SAVE: 90p

What’s new?

PRET is celebrating today’s bank holiday with a picnic of sorts.

Selected stores in Glasgow, Edinburgh, London and Liverpool will be giving away a free sandwich to the first 50 people called Nick today.

Top swap

Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash bottle.

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Pick up the Aesop Reverence Aromatique hand wash for £33Credit: Supplied
Bottle of Terreuse Aromatic Hand Wash.

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Or try the Deluxe Aromatic hand wash, which is on sale at LidlCredit: Supplied

IF you are a fan of the cult Aesop Reverence Aromatique hand wash, £33, from spacenk.com, head to Lidl this week.

Its similar Deluxe Aromatic hand wash is on sale for £2.99. In-store only.

SAVE: £30.01

Little helper

KIDS eat free at Cote this half-term. Until June 1, families can enjoy delicious French food and children get two complimentary courses when parents spend at least £20.

Shop & save

itsu hoisin duck bao buns package.

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These Itsu Bao buns are reduced at MorrisonsCredit: Itsu

ADD these tasty Itsu Bao buns to your freezer for a speedy meal in the future. Previously £3.95, now £3 at Morrisons.

SAVE: 95p

Hot right now

GET down to Marks & Spencer for a sale on selected toys, reduced by up to 50 per cent.

PLAY NOW TO WIN £200

a red and white logo for the sun raffle

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Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle

JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.

Every month we’re giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers – whether you’re saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered.

Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.

The more codes you enter, the more tickets you’ll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!

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