town

In Santa Cruz de Succhabamba, the pope urges people not to respond to injustice with brutality.

Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to the violence gripping Peru, urging people not to respond to injustice with brutality, as he visited communities he once served as bishop.

“We feel threatened by the uncertainty of widespread violence and by the unspeakable suffering that continues to afflict so many of our brothers and sisters, he said, speaking at his former cathedral in Chiclayo.

Peru’s homicide rate has nearly doubled over the past five years, from 5.8 to 10.7 per 100,000 people. Reported extortion cases rose from 2,421 in 2019 to 26,734 in 2025, according to official figures cited by The Associated Press.

Security was a top concern for Peruvians in the last election. Conservative President Keiko Jujimori took office in July after promising to tackle crime. She has since declared states of emergency, including in Lima in August, then in September in prisons holding inmates linked to criminal organisations.

She has also pursued closer ties with Washington, bringing Peru into the ‘Shield of the Americas,’ a US-led regional coalition formed to carry out joint military operations against drug cartels.

Later on Saturday, in the Andean town of Santa Cruz de Succhabamba with a population of about 6,000, about 20,000 people came to an outdoor Mass, where Leo also addressed violence in society.

“Selfishness, injustice and evil are not overcome by brutality, but by prayer, patience and perseverance in denouncing what is wrong, by making our pleas with determination and working diligently to bring about the necessary changes,” said the leader of the Roman Catholic church.

He also drew attention to the suffering of rural communities he used to serve, where migration and declining birth rates are emptying villages.

“Let us think, for example, of the suffering of those who are forced to leave their homeland in search of a better future for themselves and their families in the great coastal cities,” he said.

Originally from Chicago in the United States and formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, Leo arrived in Santa Cruz de Succhabamba by helicopter and was welcomed by a local band singing “Pope Leo, welcome home.”

He’d made the journey to the remote area many times before during his time as bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023, driving himself along winding mountain roads in a pick-up truck.

The pope, who holds both US and Peruvian citizenship, spent about two decades working in Peru as a missionary priest and bishop.

FORGET Victorian arcades or historic promenades – a seaside resort in Europe looks more like something from the future.

La Grande-Motte is a popular holiday destination with French locals.

The purpose-built seaside resort is futuristic-looking with unusual modernist buildings that look more like pyramids – in fact one is called The Great Pyramid.

It was designed by French architect Jean Balladur and constructed throughout the 1960s and 70s.

It’s considered one of Europe’s greenest resort towns, with more than 70 per cent of its area made up of trees, parks and gardens.

The triangular- shaped buildings which are a landmark of the resort are mostly residential now.

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But the area in Occitanie itself welcomes around two million tourists each year thanks to there being plenty to do.

During the summer, most visitors will flock to its coastline and La Grande-Motte has four miles of sandy beaches.

One that families will like is Plage du Point Zéro which is in the centre of the resort right by the 1960s modernist pyramid buildings.

Plage du Grand Travers is best for those looking for a more wild beach, it has sand but is backed by pine trees.

The huge 280-hectare lake called Étang du Ponant is ideal for water sports like water skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing and tubing.

There’s a large marina filled with sailboats, yachts and lined with pretty cafes, ice cream parlours and shops.

For those wanting to take to the water, catamaran cruises and coastal sailing trips can travel across to the Bay of Camargue.

The Camargue wetlands are known for their flamingos, white horses, and black bulls.

There’s a waterpark too called Espace Grand Bleu with both indoor and outdoor pools.

If the kids need entertaining, head to Ponant Aventure Park with a Tree-Top adventure course, zip-lining, play trails and playground.

At the seaside town are plenty of places to stay from five-star hotels, to family-friendly resorts and campsites.

One of the hotels called Hôtel Mercure La Grande Motte Port and rates start from £81.

Or the Golf Hotel from £89 which has an outdoor swimming pool, two hot tubs and a garden.

If camping is what you’d rather do then check out Maïana Resort Eurocamp with everything from swimming pools to kids clubs.

For seven-nights, this starts from £356.02 per party or £8.48pppn.

The easiest way for Brits to get to La Grande-Motte is to fly to Montpellier which can be done in less than two hours.

Fom there it’s a 40-minute drive to La Grande-Motte.

The coastal town is one of his favourite winter destinations

Travel expert Simon Calder has unveiled his favourite winter escapes for British pensioners, with one delightful town being described as a “slice of heaven” by visitors. Simon highlighted Cascais, located just outside Lisbon in Portugal, among his preferred winter destinations.

The beautiful coastal town offers excellent value during the colder months, while also boasting an average temperature of 18C in November and direct flights from UK airports to the neighbouring Portuguese capital. Cascais is easy to explore on foot, making it an especially attractive holiday spot for older visitors.

Travel blogger Caroline, from Packthesuitcases, praised the town as “a nice walkable size, you don’t need to worry about taxis and buses unless you’re venturing further afield to things like Cabo da Roca – everything in the town itself is easily reached on foot”.

Caroline also highlighted how simple it is to access Cascais by train from Lisbon, explaining that “the train takes about 40 minutes from Cais do Sodré, and it’s an enjoyable journey along the coast”.

On his popular travel podcast, Simon Calder described the picturesque town as one of his “favourite Portuguese locations”.

He said: “Cascais is the port planted elegantly on the shoreline west of the capital, Lisbon, on what’s known as the Portuguese Riviera.

“It was settled in turn by Romans, Visigoths and Moors, and today the centre of Cascais is an intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés, shops and smart hotels.”

He also said that there are “excellent beaches within easy reach of Cascais”, giving yet another compelling reason to consider this charming Portuguese town for your next getaway.

One visitor took to Tripadvisor to describe the town as “a little slice of heaven”.

The tourist added: “Cascais is amazing, beautiful coastline, stunning, immaculate beaches and a really charming town. The people are lovely, and the food is out of this world!”

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PREMIER Inn is set to build a new £10 million hotel in a major boost for a UK market town.

Britain’s largest hotel chain has announced plans to transform the site of a former factory.

The new hotel in North Walsham, Norfolk, will feature the chain’s latest bedroom designs, and will be built on the former Crane Fruehauf site on the outskirts of the town.

Lucy Shires, a Liberal Democrat councillor for the area, celebrated the brand coming to the town.

She told the BBC she hoped it would attract more visitors and boost jobs.

Councillor Shires said: “A national company like Whitbread choosing to invest about £10 million here is a real vote of confidence in our town’s future.

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“The hotel will bring the prospect of permanent jobs and more visitors spending money in local shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants, with benefits for the surrounding area too.”

At the initial planning stage, North Norfolk District Council heard objections about the hotel‘s designs.

The council’s conservation officer had complained about its “architectural quality”, believing it would appear “overly dominant”.

The officer also described the plans for the hotel as “box-like”.

However, district officials ruled the benefits outweighed concerns about the design and approved the plans, although it is not yet known when construction will start on the site.

Whitbread, owner of Premier Inn, operates 850 hotels across the UK and Ireland.

REVELLERS travelling to a famous Bonfire Night event this weekend will be forced to change their plans ahead of a train station closure.

Those heading to the Sussex town of Rye on Saturday (November 14) for the bonfire celebrations will have to make alternative travel plans because the station will close at 3pm.

The decision has been taken to shut the station early to prevent ‘trouble-causing youths’ who in previous years have travelled in from other areas to make mischief.

Those coming in by train will need to arrive before 3pm, as services after that will run straight through Rye to the next station without stopping.

Southern Rail area manager Paul Wyborn explained: “As with previous years, Rye railway station will be closed for reasons of public safety, from 3pm on the day of the town bonfire celebrations.

“Community organisers and members of the local multi-agency Safety Advisory Group have helped us reach this decision.”

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He added: “Trains will run through Rye without stopping until the normal start of service next day, Sunday 15 November, and online journey planners such as nationalrail.co.uk have been updated with this revised timetable.

“Please consider your alternatives if you’re planning to travel that day.”

James Foster, chair of Rye Bonfire Society, echoed his comments.

“We support Southern’s decision. The closure of Rye station limits the numbers coming from out of town and prevents an influx of youths who, in the past, have caused trouble,” he revealed.

“It has a noticeable positive impact on crowd behaviour, and this is clearly demonstrated by the reduction in police incidents.”

Other towns with proud bonfire traditions, like Lewes in East Sussex, have brought in similar measures to control crowd flow and reduce the risk of violence.

Lewes, which each year hosts a massive event for all of the local bonfire societies, closed its station from 5pm on Thursday, November 5.

Chief Inspector Sarah Taylor of Sussex Police added: “To ensure public safety, a decision has been made to close Rye Station during the bonfire event.

“Police officers will be working closely with partners to maintain order, prevent crime, and respond swiftly to any incidents.”

Rye’s bonfire celebrations will kick off with a pagaent procession starting out from Mason Road on the Tilling Green Estate at 7pm.

The procession route will go down Ferry Road to the Crown Inn then turn left into Cinque Ports Street.

It will then head down Tower Street, through Landgate Arch to Hilders Cliff, then into High Street down to The Mint, where it will turn right into Wish Ward.

The final part of the route is back on to Cinque Ports Street, down Tower Street, left down Landgate, right into Bedford Place and then on to the bonfire site, where ‘Rye Fawkes’ will light the fire at 8pm.

The grand finale will be the dazzling fireworks display starting at 8.15pm on the same site.

Those thinking of driving in to Rye on the day have been warned that all streets on the processional route will be closed to traffic from 5.30pm until around 10pm, and there is to be no parking on the route from 4pm.

Any vehicles parked on the route are likely to be removed by tow trucks, the organisers said.

And dogs should be left at home in case they are spooked by the loud bangs of firecrackers, drums and fireworks.

“This is a traditional custom, not a carnival or ordinary fireworks display, it can be loud and frightening, there will be fire and very loud bangs,” the organisers added.

“Keep children with you and do not push them to the front. If you are nervous, worried, or have a medical condition, we respectfully suggest you keep away.”

Ukrainian officials are expressing major regrets about a White House-brokered temporary ceasefire in Oleshky, which sits on the Russian-held side of the Dnipro River, the body of water that serves as a dividing line between the opposing forces. Kyiv is concerned Russian forces will once again use this decimated locale to bombard Kherson City with cross-river drone and artillery attacks. 

As many as 2,000 Ukrainian citizens were left in this town at the edge of the front line, caught between drone and artillery volleys launched by both sides. Intensive Ukrainian drone operations had largely ran the Russians out of Oleshky and a wide swath of territory as far as 30 km behind the lines, according to the Kyiv Post, citing Russian sources. This had reduced, but not prevented, Russian attacks against the Ukrainian side of the river. As we reported last year, Moscow’s forces have been carrying out widespread drone strikes on largely civilian targets in this region for quite some time in order to wear down the population, primarily in the large city of Kherson just across the river.

The military governor of the Kherson region has claimed that Russia took advantage of the ceasefire, brokered by First Lady Melania Trump to restore its forces in the bombed-out town. The statements by Oleksandr Prokudin follow comments made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and a Ukrainian military officer that the Russians moved troops and equipment into the area under the cover of the ceasefire and will use them to step up attacks across the Dnipro.

“It took us about a year to eliminate what they have now restored during the ceasefire,” Prokudin told Ukrainian Pravda. “They have restored almost everything. They used this time very effectively: they carried out personnel rotations, rebuilt completely destroyed positions, and resupplied themselves with food, generators, and fuel.”

During the ceasefire, the Russians moved drones, artillery and ammunition into Oleshky, Prokudin stated. 

“Furthermore, enemy troops searched Oleshky for basements to set up new hideouts for drone operators,” the Ukrainian official noted, adding that an increase in enemy strikes should be expected. 

“Currently, the occupiers are launching approximately 700–800 drone attacks per day, deliberately terrorizing the civilian population of Kherson and the coastal communities,” he said. “They will 100% increase.”

A video of Russian forces moving back into Oleshky, which you can see below, emerged on social media on Nov. 2, the day after the ceasefire ended.

Russia has not officially commented on these claims, which TWZ cannot independently verify. We reached out to Melania Trump’s office for comment about the Ukrainian claims.

How Did The Ceasefire Come To Be?

Home to some 24,000 people before the all-out Russian invasion, Oleshky was captured as the Russians pushed toward the Dnipro River. With the city now largely in ruins after more than four years of conflict, the population, as we noted earlier in this story, had dwindled to fewer than 2,000, mostly senior citizens and children unable to get out, according to the White House. In October, First Lady Melania Trump brokered a deal that would allow many of those residents to leave.

“The situation in Oleshky is dire. Oleshky is a front-line war city on the brink of disaster. Oleshky’s remaining population is comprised primarily of elderly residents who urgently need medical attention, medicine, food, and clean water,” the First Lady said in announcing that the localized ceasefire, the first of its kind, would commence Oct. 29. “The people of Oleshky have limited electricity, live amid mined roads, and endure regular military attacks. It was abundantly clear that without my intervention, the possibility to bring humanitarian aid into the city and to evacuate the elderly would be impossible.”

The First Lady and her representative “worked directly with Russian and Ukrainian leadership to define the terms of the localized ceasefire,” the statement added. “The First Lady initiated discussions with both nations and aligned the parties on the agreement’s objectives, technical procedures, timing, processes, and terms, in her formal role as Exclusive Intermediary.”

After several rounds of negotiations, the ceasefire ultimately began at 3 a.m. Kyiv time on Oct. 27 and ended late on Nov. 1, said Ukrainian human rights ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets, who called it the longest such arrangement since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Lubinets and David Arakhamia, head of Zelensky’s parliamentary faction, were the Ukrainian negotiators. After the ceasefire ended, both men praised the operation and Melania Trump held a press conference at the White House to announce the results.

How The Ceasefire Worked

The operation unfolded in several stages, Lubinets said, according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). 

“After the cease-fire took effect, Russian forces began demining roads leading to Oleshky, a process that continued through Oct. 29,” the publication stated. “Humanitarian supplies, including food, medicine, drinking water, and specialized hospital equipment, were then delivered.”

Lubinets and his Russian counterpart, Yana Lantratova, accompanied by their teams and journalists from Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, “subsequently entered the occupied city to oversee the distribution of aid and assist residents seeking evacuation,” the outlet added. “Residents were given three options: remain in Oleshky and receive humanitarian assistance, leave for Ukrainian-controlled territory, or travel to Russia or territory under Russian control.”

During this effort, the Ukrainian delegation “experimented with drone surveillance and direct communication between Ukrainian and Russian military representatives to monitor compliance,” the news outlet noted. “Arakhamia said the experience had helped demonstrate how localized cease-fires could be verified rather than relying solely on competing military intelligence claims.”

“All people who wanted to be evacuated from Oleshky to Ukraine are now in Ukraine,” Lubinets said, adding that he had “personally overseen the evacuation process and spoken with residents to establish whether their decisions were voluntary.”

Lantratova concurred that the ceasefire went off as planned in terms of the humanitarian goals.

“I can state that there were no incidents or violations of the ceasefire,” she said, according to Russian media. “Everything went exactly as planned.”

Ukraine Soon Expressed Regret

As noted earlier in this story, Ukrainian officials began to express concerns about the military results of the ceasefire about a week after it ended.

Russia brought more than 1,000 troops into the area under the cover of the ceasefire, an officer with the unit defending the Ukrainian side of the Dnipro claimed on Nov. 6. 

“Russian forces have massed in positions from which they had been driven out over the past six months, effectively moving about 20 kilometers closer to the line of contact,” Yaroslav Moroz, head of the Unmanned Systems Department of the 34th Separate Marine Brigade of the Ukrainian Navy, told RFE/RL. “Prior to the ceasefire, the situation on the left bank of the Kherson region was different: the Armed Forces of Ukraine had expanded their engagement zone, pushed the enemy back, and severed their logistics.”

“There are no massive assault operations at the moment. However, we are prepared for them,” Moroz added. “Russian forces have brought a large quantity of equipment and ammunition into the Oleshky hospital, knowing that the Armed Forces of Ukraine would not attack the building, as local residents are receiving medical treatment there.”

Two days later, Zelensky complained about the Russian advances in the region.

“Unfortunately, under the cover of a humanitarian operation in Oleshky, the Russian army carried out a major rotation of personnel and equipment on the left bank,” the Ukrainian leader stated on X. “Additional occupation forces were brought into Oleshky and the surrounding community. The command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine must present proposals for additional protection of lives in Kherson from Russian terror.”

Ukrainian officials took the calculated risk that making a deal with Russia would benefit a large number of people caught in the middle of a brutal conflict. After what Ukrainians claimed transpired following the ceasefire, the future of such endeavors is unclear.

Contact the author: howard@twz.com

OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in your favourite holiday hotspots.

This week we shine a light on the Cretan town of Agios Nikolaos.

MUST SEE/DO

Take a stroll around Lake Voulismeni, the heart of Agios Nikolaos.

Surrounded by cafes and tavernas, it’s a charming spot to wander, especially in the evening when the lights reflect off the still water.

Legend says the Greek goddess Athena bathed here in what was originally a small, freshwater lake – and while that’s probably myth, the atmosphere is genuinely magical.

Boats bob in the marina, locals fish, and the setting sun turns everything golden.

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Hop in a car or taxi and head to Kritsa, a traditional Cretan village just 15 minutes from town.

Nestled in the hills, it’s full of local artisans, handwoven goods, and timeless tavernas.

Stop by the Panagia Kera church for Byzantine frescoes that have survived centuries.

It’s a serene taste of old Crete with a warm welcome from locals.

BEST VIEW

Climb to the small viewpoint at Karnagio, near the edge of the lake where it meets the sea.

From here, you’ll get the best views of both Lake Voulismeni and the port, framed by pastel buildings and distant hills.

At golden hour, it’s pure magic – the perfect backdrop for holiday snaps or a quiet moment with gelato in hand.

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Piato is one of Agios Nikolaos’s culinary gems, combining traditional Cretan recipes with modern flair.

Family-run and right by the water, it offers warm service and dishes like lamb with stamnagathi greens, or fresh seafood with lemon and herbs.

The presentation is beautiful, and they finish with complimentary raki and sweets – a true Cretan touch.

BEST BAR

For cocktails with a view, head to The Island Cafe near the marina.

With a stylish terrace overlooking the sea and relaxed beats playing, it’s the perfect sundowner spot.

Try a signature Cretan mojito infused with local herbs or raki – it’s the ideal way to ease into a warm Mediterranean evening.

HOTEL PICK

The Miramare Hotel sits in a peaceful location just above the seafront with a great view of the town and Mirabello Bay.

Built in traditional island style, it is ideally situated between two beaches, which offer a full range of facilities, including water sports.

The lively resort centre is just a short walk away.

A UK town is so picturesque, with its cobbled high street, cosy pubs and charming cottages, that it’s been used as the film set for a Christmas movie starring Rebel Wilson

There aren’t many places that feel as though you’ve stepped straight into a scene from a Christmas movie, but for one charming UK town, it’s exactly that. There are idyllic cottages set against rolling countryside and cobbled lanes along its flourishing high street, brimming with independent gems and cosy retreats that resemble movie meet-cutes.

Just last year, the pretty market town of Knaresborough, nestled along the River Nidd in North Yorkshire, drew in film productions. Knaresborough became the primary filming location for the Sky Original Christmas film, Tinsel Town, starring Hollywood A-listers Kiefer Sutherland and Rebel Wilson, alongside EastEnders star Danny Dyer.

While the town is beautifully decorated during the festive months, with Christmas trees and dazzling fairy lights, the production meant that residents could savor the merry setting that much longer. Knitting Pretty shopkeeper Di Watson said at the time: “The town is buzzing with excitement. Knaresborough is a unique, beautiful, friendly town and we’re delighted to be part of this.”

Yet, it’s not the first time Knaresborough has drawn in Christmas film productions, thanks to its postcard-worthy landscapes. The Yorkshire town was also featured in the movie A Very British Christmas, with its narrow streets, castle ruins, pubs, and cafés used to set the festive scene.

While production crews have taken advantage of Knaresborough’s setting, visitors have been equally impressed. Many admire the town for its ‘fairy-tale atmosphere’, thanks to its charming stone cottages, chequered facades, and buildings boasting exposed beams and uneven floors, and it’s also been named one of the most beautiful towns in the UK.

Knaresborough certainly warrants a visit during the festive season, with its town centre, sitting atop the cliffs overlooking the river, packed with independent shops for unique Christmas gift ideas, alongside cosy cafés for that sought-after gingerbread-spiced latte and traditional pubs to escape the winter chill. It also hosts a weekly market, bringing the local community together every Wednesday, and on Saturday, 5 and Sunday, 6 December, they will hold their annual Christmas market around the town’s historic Market Place.

With Knaresborough spotlighted as a Christmas movie scene, there’s plenty more to discover for that extra touch of festive merriment, with a wintry stroll along its steep streets and quirky architecture. Elsewhere, it’s celebrated for its fascinating railway viaduct, featuring four magnificent arches that span the Harrogate line across the River Nidd.

Knaresborough Castle is another highlight in the vicinity, with the ruined fortress perched above the river offering beautiful vistas. Guests can explore the medieval castle and its grounds, and visit the Courtroom Museum to discover more about its fascinating history spanning over 900 years.

The tiny medieval Chapel of Our Lady is another notable landmark in Knaresborough, alongside its peaceful Bebra Gardens, ideal for another winter wander. Further along the river, there’s the welcoming World’s End pub that looks out over the River Nidd with a terrace, as well as the delightful Marigold Cafe & Boating for that caffeine fix.

The town is also home to ‘England’s oldest tourist attraction’, Mother Shipton’s Cave, having welcomed guests since 1630. It’s also the birthplace of England’s most renowned prophetess, with the compact cave recounting “the story of life and legacy”, where guests can discover the small cave before making a wish in the famous Petrifying Well.

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The idyllic town features traditional Scandinavian architecture and breathtaking scenery

Lerwick, located on the Shetland Islands in Scotland, is frequently dubbed “Little Norway” thanks to its historical connections with the Scandinavian nation. The town remained under the Kingdom of Norway until 1469, with the name “Lerwick” translating to “bay of clay” in Norwegian.

During World War 2, Lerwick functioned as a crucial base for the “Shetland bus – Little Norway” operation, with small Norwegian fishing vessels docking in the town to carry out secret missions and evacuate refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Norway. Lerwick resembles Norwegian coastal towns, showcasing traditional Scandinavian architecture and red timber-framed houses.

Lerwick is a charming, scenic town and an ideal winter destination for those seeking authentic Norwegian landscapes without venturing abroad.

On Facebook, some visitors said that “the landscape looks much more like Norway than Scotland”.

Another visitor said on Tripadvisor that Lerwick has “numerous fascinating buildings including old warehouses which go right down to the edge of the water”.

Another one commented that Shetland is “a fantastic set of islands with wonderful scenery”. And a third one added: “Shetland is wonderful. It’s all about scenery. Along with Orkney, it has a completely different feel to the rest of Scotland with its Norse heritage. (They both belonged to Norway until 1472.) The Shetland Museum in Lerwick is excellent.”

According to Shetland’s official website, there’s plenty to do in the town, and it’s ideal to discover on foot.

“Lerwick is a stunning town full of history and beautiful buildings, all telling a story. Some of the most interesting buildings are the Lodberries overlooking Lerwick Harbour.

“Lerwick offers many opportunities for beautiful walks, exploring fascinating historical attractions and enjoying fun family activities.”

Other gorgeous UK towns that look like famous European destinations include Lynmouth, often nicknamed “Little Switzerland” due to its scenic beauty.

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We’re past due for dystopian storytelling to train its lens on a creature in the here and now, one whose very survival speaks to consequential global change. Take the ice-dependent polar bear, rapidly losing its food-sustaining habitat and having to perilously adapt by nudging further and further into human spaces. And yet, as the moody, starkly beautiful documentary “Nuisance Bear” reveals, following just one wandering ursus maritimus in search of food will still ultimately tell you as much about the two-legged mammals who created its plight.

Broadening and deepening their acclaimed, same-titled short from 2022, directors Jack Weisman and Gabriela Osio Vanden have made a nature film turned on its head. They camped out in Churchill, Manitoba, along the Hudson Bay, where hundreds of polar bears migrate each winter, to capture their increasing encroachment into human communities. There’s an ironic disconnect when a town calls itself “Polar Bear Capital of the World” — it’s not like these creatures, who existed long before us, get to be in charge of anything. Their food source becomes town dumps, plus, in the interests of “conservation,” they get treated either like a roaming photo-op for tourists or, if too aggressive and needing to be reminded of their place, like a drunk vagrant consigned to a night in the clink. (There’s a holding facility for polar bears before they’re let loose again.)

Weisman and Vanden oversaw a crew of six cinematographers (including themselves) and built their visuals primarily around the perspective of one isolated, scavenging bear as it endures busloads of sightseeing visitors, brief incarceration from a patrol operation and, after an airlift, an even more conflict-ridden journey north toward the Inuit town Arviat, just in time for that hamlet’s annual hunt. With attacks on the rise, the people of Arviat harbor no delusion that polar bears are endangered.

Their experience with avinnaarjuk, an Inuit term for roaming bears without fear of humans, is the movie’s other carefully considered viewpoint, since the Inuit, too, have suffered under a system of control. Colonialism herded these Indigenous communities directly in the path of the bears’ ancient migration, and now hunting regulations hamper their ability to manage the population. “Nuisance Bear” is partly narrated by one such affected elder, Mike Tunalaaq Gibbons. His weary voice, describing with sympathy what this solitary, hungry rover is going through, details a broken relationship between human and beast, but more keenly and traumatically, between humans and humans. It’s as if we’re privy not only to hard-earned wisdom but something poignant and therapeutic about loss and change.

The bear, meanwhile, gets our empathy, as any creature would. Whether gazed upon in close-up (an intimacy made possible when it’s dosed with tranquilizers) or viewed from a distance as it’s chased across a landscape increasingly marked by human settlement — trash, fences, machinery, buildings — our ursine antihero is like some lost spirit, scrambling for purchase where claws no longer reliably grip. The steady, gliding images, part surveillance, part concern, suggest a de-evolution. When Cristóbal Tapia de Veer’s ethereal score is playing, “Nuisance Bear” evokes a sacred domain where the cosmic hymn that’s always undergirded it has begun to lose its melody.

THERE are thousands of pubs around the UK – but if you want to enjoy a pint and bite to eat in the very best, head to Eccles.

The Queens Arms, which is also the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway pub, has just been declared the top boozer in the country.

The accolade comes from the Good Food Guide which created the ranking from 20,000 reader nominations.

While The Queens Arms might look like a traditional British pub from the outside, don’t expect any pie and mash here.

Instead, it has a Japanese izakaya-style menu serving up katsu, noodle bowls, eel and wagyu burgers.

It was praised by Good Food Guide for its ‘unexpected’ blend of culture and that proves to be popular with visitors too.

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On Tripadvisor, one punter called it an ‘old fashioned relaxed traditional pub with a Japanese twist’.

Others called it a ‘gem of a place’ – lots praised the food too, especially ‘light and crispy’ tempura battered prawns and crab.

Despite its Japanese menu, the Grade-II listed pub still retains lots of its original features like fireplaces, bar fittings and booth seats.

For anyone who still wants a more traditional experience, there’s also a drinking den which has a dartboard and draught beers.

Historically, the pub was named The Patricroft Tavern – it opened in 1828 aligning with the launch of the Liverpool & Manchester Railway.

According to history, Eccles cakes and beer were even sold to passengers, but this had to stop eventually because it was delaying the trains.

It was a busy hub for passengers for years and it’s rumoured that Queen Victoria even stepped inside a few times.

This was reportedly the reason as to why the pub was renamed The Queens Arms later on.

As for where you’ll find, it the boozer is in Eccles, Greater Manchester

The town shares its name with the well-known Eccles cake, a flaky pastry filled with currants and mixed spices.

These were first sold in Eccles back in 1796 and consequently, the cakes were named after the town.

So one must-do for any visitor is to pop into one of its cafes to try one of the baked goodies.

Lots of the independent cafes are found on Monton Road including Playfoots Cafe and Bar, Oats & Honey, and Monton Village Bakery.

Another popular activity in Eccles is a stroll or cycle along the waterfront.

The Bridgewater Canal which connects Runcorn, Manchester and Leigh runs through the town of Eccles and there are lots of trails beside it.

The nearest train stop to The Queens Arms is Patricroft, which is also just 17-minutes away from Manchester Piccadilly.

If you’re planning heading to the city, check out the best hidden gems according to locals from even more shops to family-friendly attractions.

Speaking to Andover Town’s website,, external Skeates said: “I’ve been involved in football a long time and I’ve genuinely never seen anything like what happened today from an opposition side.

“All 11 of their players walked off perfectly fine at half-time with us 7-0 up.

“They eventually came back out with seven, so apparently four must have managed to get injured in the changing room.

“We scored pretty much straight away to make it 8-0 and from there it became a complete farce.”

BBC Sport has asked the league for Paulsgrove FC’s contact details but that request was declined.

However, several posts on X appearing to come from Paulsgrove’s official account claimed the players were all genuinely injured.

One reply to a post from Skeates read: “Sadly can’t make injured player [sic] continue”.

Skeates said Andover Town would submit a report to the league.

A spokesperson for the Hampshire Premier Football League said: “As is standard for any abandoned game, an investigation is under way and until that process has been completed, we cannot make any comment.”

Andover Town are mid-table in the 16-team league, which is in the 12th tier of the English football pyramid.

Paulsgrove are bottom, having lost all 10 games this season, including three completed games where they were beaten by eight goals or more.

In an error-strewn opening half, handling errors would halt Stormers’ momentum on a number of occasions and eventually see them punished midway through the opening half.

McCann pounced on a knock-on to get his side on the front foot and although the TMO ruled out a score for Matthew Devine from the subsequent attack, play came back for an offside in the build-up and it was McCann who bundled over with Murphy converting.

A knock-on at the line by Cormac Izuchukwu saw Ulster spurn a glorious opportunity to grab a second just minutes later as momentum flipped with Ulster conceding four-straight penalties – the last of those resulting in Keynan Knox sent to the bin.

Pressure would eventually tell as JD Schickerling powered over and Ahmed added the extras before Paul de Villiers charged down Murphy’s attempted clearance and took advantage to touch down to give Stormers a 12-7 advantage at the half.

Ulster were on the front foot early in the second period, but a blind pass by Devine was gleefully gathered by Roos, who put on the afterburners and galloped away for a converted score.

It left Murphy’s side with a mountain to climb in the Cape Town heat as they could not make their presence felt in the opposite 22, the game played mostly in their own half as both sides continued to make errors.

However, it would finally stick for the hosts as a perfectly-weighted crossfield kick by Ahmed was fielded by team captain Ruhan Nel, who touched down for the bonus point.

Izuchukwu was denied a consolation score when held up over the line which summed up Ulster’s day as the hosts finished with a flourish, Ahmed crossing for a fifth he would convert.

It put a seal on the win for the hosts, with Ulster now left with much to ponder as the first block of URC games comes to a conclusion.

While they continue to produce moments, Murphy’s side are yet to find a fully-rounded display to get their season fully on track.

Stormers: Willemse; Senatla, R Nel (capt), Muller, Zas; Ahmed, Reinach; Mchunu, Paulo, Louw, Smith, Schickerling, De Villiers, L Nel, Roos.

Replacements: Rabe, Matongo, Fouché, Norton, Evans, Mlaba, Pead, Simelane.

Ulster: McIlroy; Lowry, Hume, Carson, Ward; Murphy, Devine; O’Sullivan, Herring, Knox, Donnell, Snyman, Izuchukwu, McCann (capt), Augustus.

Replacements: Walker, McAllister, Wilson, Sheridan, Moloney, McKee, Flannery, Mullins.

Referee: Sam Grove-White

The stunning lakeside town just under an hour from Geneva, making it an ideal autumn day trip whether you’re based in Switzerland or travelling from the UK

With its meandering canals, pastel-hued buildings and mountainous backdrop, Annecy resembles something plucked straight from a storybook. What makes it even more enticing is that this stunning French town is remarkably accessible from Geneva, where I was visiting for a city break.

While staying at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva, I decided to venture across the border into France to discover what makes Annecy such a sought-after destination.

Situated just under an hour away by road, it offers a completely contrasting atmosphere to the refined Swiss city, with cobblestone streets, waterfront promenades, and numerous spots to pause for a crêpe. If you’re organising a European city break and fancy cramming two countries into one journey, Annecy is definitely worth including on your itinerary.

One of the finest aspects of basing yourself in Geneva is how effortlessly you can venture beyond Switzerland itself. While the city possesses its own charm, from its picturesque location to its chocolate boutiques, an excursion to Annecy offers a change of pace without requiring an overnight stay.

Positioned in south-eastern France, Annecy is renowned for its waterways, historic Old Town and spectacular location beside Lake Annecy, with the French Alps offering a dramatic backdrop. It possesses a markedly different character from Geneva, with a more traditional, romantic ambience.

I travelled by FlixBus from Geneva to Annecy, which took approximately 45 minutes. While travel times vary with traffic, the trip was incredibly straightforward.

The Old Town is the ideal starting point for sightseeing, with cobbled streets brimming with independent shops, cafés and eateries. It’s easy to while away an entire afternoon strolling about, browsing for souvenirs and grabbing a bite along the way.

One of the most recognisable landmarks is the Palais de l’île, a historic stone building set on a small island in the Thiou canal. Its distinctive shape and remarkable position in the water make it one of Annecy’s most photographed landmarks.

The town is also pleasingly compact, meaning you can take in most of the key attractions on foot. Even with just a couple of hours to spare, there’s ample time to meander through the streets.

No trip to France would feel quite right without sampling some local cuisine, and Annecy boasts plenty of spots to stop for something to eat.

Crêpes are an obvious go-to for a swift treat, with numerous options readily available throughout the area. You’ll also discover hearty regional dishes inspired by the surrounding Alpine landscape, including tartiflette, a warming combination of potatoes, cheese, onions and bacon.

Beyond the canals and the historic centre, Lake Annecy is yet another reason this town is so extraordinary. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning Alpine backdrop, the lake offers a spectacular contrast to the narrow lanes of the Old Town.

If the sun is shining, head towards the waterfront to soak up the views across the water and towards the mountains. Boat trips and various other activities are also on offer throughout the warmer months.

For my visit, I was based at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva, which provided a comfortable and opulent starting point for discovering the local region.

Geneva itself offers enough to fill a weekend break, from wandering through the Old Town and seeing its renowned Flower Clock to perusing chocolate boutiques and sampling authentic Swiss fondue.

For those contemplating a comparable getaway, remaining in Geneva and making a day trip to Annecy is a delightful way to enjoy two locations without the inconvenience of switching accommodation.

Fans of BBC’s The Traitors might want to add the underrated town onto their list as it’s right by plenty of the beautiful locations you see on the hit show – and the castle itself

BBC’s The Traitors has us gripped with the tense roundtables, secret turret meetings, murders in plain sight and tense missions. However, it’s not just the drama that catches our attention; those beautiful backdrops make it very tempting to open up your laptop and book a Highlands getaway immediately.

Filmed in the Scottish Highlands, the series offers sneak peeks of lochs with sparkling waters, dense forests, and breathtaking scenery that is the stuff of storybooks. For fans who want a taste, the good news is that there are budget-friendly places to stay in the area, a stone’s throw from plenty of the filming locations.

In fact, one town has recently been crowned as the ‘best for fans’ in the area. Dingwall may not be famed for being particularly beautiful or full of places to visit, but the underrated town is worth having on your radar whether you’re a Faithful or Traitor. A study from SMC Coach Hire named it the ‘best place for fans’ of the hit show, thanks to its location less than half an hour’s drive to plenty of The Traitors’ filming locations, not to mention the town boasts around 32 places to eat and drink as well as 11 places to stay.

There are also a few main attractions in the town including the Dingwall Museum, or the GlenWyvis Distillery which is approximately a 10-minute drive away. Meanwhile the Tulloch Castle Hotel is a firm favourite with visitors, while Lastminute.com offers stays at Dingwall hotels from £41 a night.

For Traitors fans, Dingwall is actually just a 24-minute drive from the actual Traitors Castle where the series takes place. Its real name is Ardross Castle but sadly it’s not a real hotel, nor is it a castle that’s open to the public. The 19th century castle boasts beautiful formal gardens and 100 acres of parkland you will no doubt recognise from the show, but if you want to visit there are only a few options; either you need to be filming a TV show or film and have permission there, or you can book out the entire venue for a wedding (although it’s worth noting that it will look very different when it’s not decked out with its Traitors decor).

Still, the missions in the show are filmed on the estate as well as around Alness, Inverness and local spots such as Loch Glass, Cairngorms National Park, and the Rothiemurchus Estate, all of which are open to the public, and less than a half hour’s drive from Dingwall.

If you do want to experience a hint of where the Faithfuls and Traitors stay, then you may want to consider a trip to the Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport. Despite the show offering scenes of the cast staying in lavish rooms in the castle, they actually stay at this airport hotel during filming! (If you’re in Inverness and want a budget stay, there are other options too including Travelodge and Premier Inn hotels in the city centre).

This charming coastal suburb is just an approximately 15-minute bus ride from a major city centre and should be the next addition to your autumn travel plans

A coastal suburb located just a 15-minute journey from a major UK city deserves a place on your autumn travel list. Even with the cooler temperatures, a seaside trip is still a brilliant way to unwind and clear your head, and nothing quite compares to the breathtaking views across the water.

Last October, I spent a day exploring Portobello near Edinburgh on a bright but cold day, and I’m annoyed with myself for not making the trip earlier. With a thriving high street packed with independent shops, mouth-watering food options, and superb public transport links, it’s a perfect destination if you fancy exploring somewhere a little different.

A quick 15-minute bus journey from the city centre brought us straight into the town’s centre, and it was instantly clear that this location had something special about it.

Naturally, our first stop was a bracing stroll along the seafront. The weather was lovely and bright, though cold, but it felt quite refreshing following the hour-long train journey from Glasgow.

Portobello’s beach extends for two miles, featuring a Victorian-style promenade and vistas across the Firth of Forth. Being a sunny Sunday morning, it was fairly busy, with plenty of families enjoying walks and dogs happily racing across the sand.

The first aspect that caught my attention about the beach was how spotless it looked. It’s obvious that the residents of Portobello, or ‘Porty’ as it’s affectionately known, take huge pride in their surroundings.

I can’t help but wish I’d visited during the summer, as it’s easy to picture Portobello as a brilliant spot for sunbathing and maybe even a refreshing dip in the sea.

In 2024, Portobello was named the UK’s second-best coastal town by JoJo Maman Bebe, and its beach bagged a Keep Scotland Beautiful award, which really proves its charm.

Having worked up quite an appetite after our stroll along the shoreline, we turned our attention to the selection of eateries and pubs lining the seafront, ranging from massive pizza slices at Civerino’s to brunch and coffee at The Beach House.

Many of these venues offer outdoor seating, meaning you can dine pretty much on the beach itself — a truly lovely touch.

We went for Shrimp Wreck, a seafood spot boasting a small but enticing menu. This street food stall shot to fame after appearing on BBC’s My Million Pound Menu and is well known for its fish finger sandwiches — it even reached the finals of the Birds Eye Fish Finger Sandwich Awards in 2017.

Naturally, I went for the dish everyone’s been talking about. The battered flaky fish fillets, mushy peas and quite possibly the best chips I’ve ever eaten, all tucked into a soft roll, was without doubt the messiest meal I could have chosen — but I wouldn’t change a thing.

Next up was a proper wander along the high street where we’d been dropped off by the bus. Tucked just behind the promenade, it was quieter than the beach itself, yet there were still plenty of folk about — and, importantly, plenty of shops open for business.

One of the standouts for me was discovering The Portobello Bookshop, a charming independent bookshop packed to the brim with novels, cookbooks and a whole lot more. The shop itself was bright, welcoming and cosy — exactly the sort of place where you could lose yourself for hours.

They also put on events, including Q&As with authors, so it’s well worth checking what’s coming up if you’re planning a trip.

Cove is another spot not to be missed if you’re a lover of a good gift shop. It was absolutely bursting with all kinds of trinkets, from Jellycat toys to candles and shampoo bars, alongside gorgeous cards and irresistible chocolate bars.

Portobello’s high street may not be the biggest you’ll ever walk down, but it’s definitely one of the most charming. There’s a solid selection of food and drink spots, pubs and even an Aldi, so you’re unlikely to be stuck for choice.

One place we didn’t quite get round to, and which I’m already keen to revisit, is the swim centre. Tucked away in Portobello, you’ll find a genuine Victorian Turkish bath — one of only 11 remaining in the UK — alongside a gym and fitness studio, making it a firm fixture on my list for next time.

If you’ve yet to explore Portobello, it really is a brilliant spot for a weekend escape, even as the temperatures begin to drop. Its closeness to the bustling city of Edinburgh makes it an ideal spot for anyone craving a breather from city life, with plenty of food, drink and relaxation on offer.

Given their league positions, form and pedigree there could only have been one winner predicted.

Fleetwood played Arsenal on Tuesday with 83 places separating the teams and most home fans arriving in hope rather than any expectation. But remarkably, it was the hosts who booked their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-final thanks to their penalty shootout win over the Gunners.

For the Cod Army, who won six promotions in 12 years in their impressive journey from non-league, this result will surely be remembered longest of all. Against the reigning Premier League champions, the club from a small seaside town in Lancashire created history in claiming one of the biggest cup upsets ever.

Aaron Loupalo-Bi gave the hosts the lead after 21 minutes but, after the break, Viktor Gyokeres pulled the visitors level.

And from there, they might have been expected to take charge but Fleetwood remained resolute, prospering from a wasteful performance from Arsenal that included Max Dowman being sent off for kicking out after a robust challenge from Harrison Neal.

Fleetwood, who sit 18th in League Two having won just once in their past eight league games, dared to dream and took the game to penalties, with fans spilling on to the pitch in the after Conor Haughey’s decisive spot kick.

“The biggest night in the club’s history in terms of opposition coming to town and we’ve managed to beat the champions,” boss Matt Lawlor told Sky Sports in the aftermath of his side’s stunning victory.

“I’m a big football fan and I watch National League all the way through to the Premier League, Championship. So for me it was a tough game to prepare for, but I’m just so glad that the lads have the feeling the way they are and took that performance in to make that town, the club, everyone proud.”

Move over, “Alice in Wonderland” and “The Wizard of Oz” — you too, “Spirited Away” and “The Chronicles of Narnia.” There’s a new eye-popping portal fantasy in town and its name is “Wildwood.”

This is a thoroughly involving and captivating stop-motion adventure from Laika, the animation studio that made such other beautiful handmade works as “Coraline” and “Kubo and the Two Strings.” But it’s clear from the level of artistry on display here that the company, led by producer-director Travis Knight, has steadily advanced in technology, innovation and ambition. (We’re talking 233 handcrafted puppets and 132 practical sets.) That’s saying a lot given Laika’s previous top-tier output. In addition, Laika worked alongside New Zealand’s Wētā FX to create the movie’s stunning digital environments and visual effects. That magical ivy is something else.

The wondrous story was adapted by frequent Laika collaborator Chris Butler from the epic 2011 novel written by Colin Meloy (frontman for indie rock band the Decemberists, whose original music is featured here) and illustrated by Carson Ellis. The tale kicks off as intrepid young Portland, Ore., teen Prue (voiced by Peyton Elizabeth Lee) defies her worrywart parents and, in their absence, takes her baby brother, Mac, out for a bike ride around her city’s singularly quirky downtown. (Not for nothing, Knight is a Portland native and Laika is based just outside the city.)

But things quickly turn pitch dark as a murder of crows (take that collective noun how you will) swoops down and, quite terrifyingly, à la Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds,” abducts little Mac. This leads a desperate Prue and, soon, her nerdy but plucky classmate Curtis (Jacob Tremblay), into the forbidden “Impassable Wilderness” at the edge of town to rescue Mac. From there on it’s a roller coaster of magnificently rendered battles, chases, near-misses and escapes as Prue and Curtis — separately and together — navigate the enchanted, astonishing woods and its wildly assorted communities of rulers, warriors and underlings.

As Prue and Curtis struggle to unravel the twisty lore of the obstacle-laden forest in their search for Mac, their outsider presence inadvertently sets off a long-festering showdown for control of the forest between its warring factions. On the one hand, it’s Alexandra, the sinister, dangerously obsessed Dowager Governess (Carey Mulligan) and her marauding band of military-style coyotes (Tom Waits, Charlie Day and others) versus a wayward posse of bandits (led by Mahershala Ali’s formidable Brendan). Then there’s the Avian Principality, a bird-led kingdom also against Alexandra’s mounting power, including a stunningly majestic eagle known as the General (Angela Bassett) and the wise old Owl Rex (Richard E. Grant).

Vying for dominance as well are the haughty, self-serving bureaucrats of the area’s bustling capital of South Wood (Jemaine Clement, Marc Evan Jackson), who pull their political strings from the relative safety of the grand Pittock Mansion. Other characters Prue and the increasingly brave Curtis encounter along the way include the wry and resourceful rat Septima (Awkwafina), the courageous bandit Niamh (Amandla Stenberg), elderly mystic Iphigenia (Tantoo Cardinal) and the realm’s harried postmaster (Len Cariou). The talking animals feel right at home alongside the human figures and the voice work is excellent all around.

Needless to say, there’s a lot going on in Butler’s busy, occasionally dizzying script, though compressing the approximately 550-page source material was surely no easy task. (As it is, “Wildwood” runs more than two hours, long for an animated film, though it rarely lags.) Still, the narrative has its share of “just go with it” moments and explanations. Bits of connective tissue can sometimes feel missing amid the action and the story’s lessons, particularly for Prue, don’t always land as strongly or affectingly as they could.

It should also be said that there’s some fairly outsize violence along the way, particularly during the combat scenes, plus other potentially disturbing bits of mayhem that may be too extreme for younger children. Parents take note: The film more than rightly earns its PG-13 rating.

Nonetheless, for most audiences, especially animation-loving teens and adults, this should prove a spectacularly immersive ride, vibrantly shot by the great Caleb Deschanel (“The Right Stuff,” “The Natural”) and crafted by a reported 49 animators who brought the film to life one dazzling, painstaking frame at a time.

This quaint town in Somerset has been named one of the best places to live in the UK time and time again – so I headed back to find out what all the fuss is about

I recently found myself back in Somerset for the first time in several years, taking a nostalgic journey with my friend who had flown halfway across the globe to mark their mum’s 60th birthday. A road trip from the capital to sweeping fields of countryside felt like the perfect way to spend a crisp autumn weekend.

My friend is originally from Frome, Somerset, but now lives on the shores of New South Wales. I hadn’t visited this charming West Country town for nearly eight years, yet had noticed its name cropping up in headlines as one of Britain’s finest places to live.

In fact, it appeared so frequently that I’ve lost track. It featured once more on Muddy Stiletto’s Top 260 Best Places to Live in 2025.

I’d never given it much thought, as Frome has always simply been my mate’s hometown, but if it’s collecting awards repeatedly, there must be something I’ve overlooked over the past decade.

What’s more, Frome’s Rye Bakery also earned a mention in Britain’s Best Bakeries by Milly Kenny Ryder. The Times even branded the town “Wokeville”, home of the “conscious hipster”. Yet to me, it’s always been a tight-knit community hub that’s cricket-obsessed, where everybody knows one another, and where pints are shockingly affordable compared to London prices.

Nestled on the edge of the Mendip Hills, Muddy Stilettos described Frome as a “community-minded town packed with arty, artisan shops, eateries and other businesses, with an indie cinema and a music venue where the likes of Paul McCartney ‘just pop in’. And it hosts the best designer-maker-producer street market in the West.”

Either I’d never properly clocked it before or the town has experienced a remarkable transformation during my eight-year absence. The town centre, filled with cobbled side streets that climb upwards, is lined with tiny boutiques and quirky independent shops, stocking everything from vintage clothing and antiques to its very own apothecary emporium.

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Streets like Cheap Street and Catherine Hill are packed with independent retailers, upmarket coffee shops, and sufficient micropubs and wine bars to keep you busy for ages. What Muddy Stilettos celebrated as “interesting indies”, my mate’s mum labelled “artisanal… and we aren’t the artisanal type”.

Another draw for both locals and visitors from further away is Frome’s abundance of markets, which by pure coincidence were running the weekend I wasn’t there. At the Frome Independent Market you’ll discover designer makers alongside artisan food and drink producers.

You’d struggle to spot many chain shops or restaurants here, which is brilliant if you’re keen to avoid the overwhelming presence of typical high street brands. I spotted just one Costa Coffee, and that was it.

My first real stop was Rye Bakery at its Station Approach site. The other branch can be found inside a church on Whittox Lane.

Even the old railway house at the station has been transformed into a compact independent food market and events venue. Alongside Rye Bakery, you’ll discover its sister wine bar, cheesemonger The Cheese Lord, Indian and Trinidadian street food, a charcutier, another wine bar, plus a community sauna and cold plunge.

Oh, and there’s a milk vending machine thrown in for good measure. You genuinely wouldn’t need to venture beyond the station.

Naturally, it would be churlish not to sample Rye’s offerings. I devoured a cinnamon bun alongside my iced coffee (on a freezing cold Sunday morning), plus a special sandwich crammed full of salami, Glastonbury cheddar, and salsa verde mayo.

It’s precisely the sort of fare I crave from a bakery, though I can appreciate that to some it might appear a touch… gentrified. The sandwich was bursting at the seams, with the heat of the salami tempered by the zesty mayo and punchy cheddar. All these trendy new bakeries have turned the humble sarnie into something rather fashionable.

Rye’s cinnamon bun proved just as delightful as the sandwich, boasting soft, fluffy dough and beautifully spiced cinnamon sugar. Not overly sickly sweet, but sweet enough to satisfy my appetite.

We even discovered an Australian serving behind the counter, and if that’s not an indication of quality coffee, I don’t know what is.

It was also pleasant to revisit some of the neighbourhood drinking establishments. You’ll encounter a mixture of traditional country pubs or independent craft beer venues. Personally, I’d head just beyond the town limits for an authentic taste of Somerset living.

I nearly shed a tear when I discovered a pint of cider for under £6. It makes me appreciate just how costly London has become, and truly, that the prices needn’t be as eye-wateringly steep as they are.

Frome has both evolved and remained unchanged. It’s still the same charming Somerset town where everybody knows everybody; where the tranquillity of the town centre feels so unfamiliar to someone from London.

The residents may not have altered, but it appears the atmosphere has, attracting a fresh generation of people to its cobbled streets. There’s a feeling of togetherness that you only encounter in small towns like Frome.

It offers an escape from hectic urban existence, where you can retreat into the countryside within moments rather than hours. It may not be exactly the same Frome I recall, but I’ll always maintain a warm attachment to the town.

There’s something special about this place, known for its laid-back vibe and thriving bohemian culture, and what I think is arguably one of Britain’s best high streets.

Living in London, life can sometimes feel rather frenetic. While I adore city living, I do try to escape at least a few times a year to properly unwind.

Among my favourite retreats is Totnes, a market town renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and delightful high street, celebrated for its artistic community and flourishing bohemian spirit. It also boasts, in my view, one of Britain’s best high streets.

Beginning at the lower end of the street, you can cross the bridge spanning the River Dart and truly absorb the town’s character from there.

During the summer months, the town is adorned with vibrant bunting, while small boats drift across the water.

In autumn, it’s equally gorgeous, as the trees turn red and gold and the high street lights up with cosy shop fronts to escape from the biting wind.

There is abundant riverside greenery, and the town buzzes with energy. After crossing the bridge, pop into The Curator for a coffee – the first of numerous independent establishments scattered along the high street

The coffee is excellent, and they offer a delightful range of pastries if you fancy settling down for a snack – though don’t overindulge, there’s plenty more to discover.

The high street climbs gradually upwards and is flanked by hundreds of independent retailers, charity shops and tearooms.

Further along the high street, you’ll find the Cornish Bakery, which fills the street with the delicious savoury scent of pasties. They cater for all tastes; even my vegan brother discovered something he truly enjoyed.

As the high street curves round to the left, you’ll come across Butterworth’s Vintage Co, a compact yet impressive secondhand shop stocking everything from knitwear to workwear and even vintage magazines.

Once you’ve had a good root through the merchandise, you might fancy a swift drink or perhaps another bite to eat – and you’re in luck.

Just a short walk from Butterworth’s sits The Bull Inn, a fantastic establishment boasting an extensive organic food menu alongside nine guest rooms, should you need somewhere to stay for the night.

The highlight of The Bull Inn for me is its delightful garden, where you can kick back in the sunshine and watch the world go by. Situated directly across the car park, and much like the rest of the town, it’s frequently adorned with gorgeous bunting.

On a glorious day, it’s truly hard to beat – and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be more than ready to take the weight off your feet after all that browsing along the high street.

Eric Dangerfield is surrounded by senior citizens.

After a packed set at Riot Fest the previous weekend, the 25-year-old lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the Paradox welcomed the quiet of his boomer-dominated neighborhood.

“I’m a suburban dude,” he said, smiling from his home in metro Atlanta, his cropped two-toned dreads bobbing as he spoke.

The Paradox spent much of the summer on the festival circuit, powering through a growing discography of pop-punk gems, so Dangerfield and the three other band members are taking a brief breather before their Proceed With Caution Tour starts this month — their first as headliners.

It’s peaceful. That is, “Except when the boys come over,” he adds.

On a late morning in September, the boys are here and accounted for: patching in to a video call, minutes apart, from their homes, also in suburban ATL. Dangerfield, born with the perfect stage name, has ideas that flow faster than he can seem to get them out. Then there’s Donald Bryant on bass. Yin to Dangerfield’s yang, with a quiet, commanding presence.

Percy “PC3” Crews has been playing drums since he was 3, and his vicious skills on the drum kit contrast with a cheery, relaxed demeanor. Finally, there’s Christopher Bernard, a.k.a. Xelan — the lead guitarist and Dangerfield’s vocal complement.

Dangerfield likens the four to musical superheroes from a Marvel series. But not so much the “Earth’s mightiest heroes” variety.

On their first headlining tour, the band brings its new EP, “Proceed With Caution,” to Los Angeles while claiming space in a historically white genre and weaving social commentary into its pop-punk sound.

(Shorefire Media)

“I’m like Mister Fantastic and Donald’s my Invisible Woman. Xelan’s the Thing, and Percy is John Storm,” he says of his partners in musical mischief. “If I’m ugly, just say that,” quips Xelan, the band’s oldest member at 30. “Yeah. Because you’re strong, bro,” reassures Eric.

By this time, the interview has devolved into fun-loving chaos.

They finish each other’s sentences and switch up their Google Meet backgrounds, cracking up as an awkward graduation portrait pops up. At some point, Bernard decides to give a bedroom tour, showing off his collection of Blink-182 and Fall Out Boy posters.

A photo of him with Travis Barker hangs next to a framed Billboard plaque on a nightstand. Barker was featured on the Paradox’s 2025 single “Bender” and performed with the group at Vans Warped Tour the same year.

The Billboard plaque commemorates the band’s song “Get the Message” from its debut EP, “NSFW,” reaching No. 1 on the Alternative Airplay chart in January — a great achievement for any rock artist — but the Paradox also happens to be the first all-Black band to do so.

The success, although rapid, didn’t come from nowhere. All of the members have been working toward music in some form for years.

Dangerfield had a deal with a small label where he was originally making a go of it as a pop and R&B soloist. He also put out his music online. Looking for something different, he remembered his passing interest in pop-punk from his days growing up in Palm Coast, Fla. It was the “Fat Lip” video by Sum 41 that sealed the deal.

Yearning to be in a band, he started working with Bernard, whom he met online and shared his passion for the genre. Bryant was Dangerfield’s childhood friend from Palm Coast who had also moved to Atlanta, while Crews had been a fixture on the local music scene. And the name? It came from Dangerfield’s love of quantum physics.

Shortly after the group officially formed in June 2024, Dangerfield’s then-girlfriend — now wife and band “momager” Lexi Dangerfield — opened Instagram and TikTok accounts filming and posting their homey videos. The band’s song “Kaitlyn” and some covers blew up. The artists’ perspective, filtered through a Gen Z lens, struck a multigenerational nerve.

Attention came so quickly that Dangerfield felt the need to defend against online detractors who were convinced the group was an industry plant.

From there, the fairy-tale plot thickened. Billie Joe Armstrong followed Dangerfield on Instagram, and the two struck up a friendship that led to the Paradox opening for Green Day on the Atlanta stop of its Saviors Tour. But this was, of course, after Jack White’s people called — who the group ended up opening for at Basement East in Nashville.

Things haven’t slowed down in the two years since, with opportunities coming fast and furious. In the spring of last year, the band signed a deal with Hundred Days Records, a subsidiary of Virgin Music Group, and teamed up with producers Mike Pepe and Robopop to work on “NSFW.”

“Bender,” the group’s collaboration with Barker, and “Do Me Like That” are featured on Madden NFL 27 and NBA 2K26 video game soundtracks. Last month, the musicians streamed a concert from Twitch superstar Kai Cenat’s house. And now, instead of opening for their idols, they are inviting them up on stage as guests. For their second Warped Tour in Long Beach, that meant Deryck Whibley of Sum 41 and Logan Henderson from Big Time Rush.

The embrace from established musicians has definitely helped the band navigate its rise. In a moment of doubt, Crews said Good Charlotte’s Joel Madden, in particular, came through with sage advice.

“He asked me a question: ‘How does it feel being where we were?’ And I was like, ‘It feels like a dream.’ It felt like I was gonna wake up on my desk sophomore year with drool on my f— table. And I was telling him that, and he was like, ‘You know, it may feel that way, but it is real … It’s real, and it’s you … you belong in these rooms.’”

The irony of being embraced in a mostly white subgenre of punk rock while Black American culture formed its foundation is not lost on the group. Had the band come about during one of Dangerfield’s favorite eras of music, the ’50s and ’60s — there would likely have been rooms in which they weren’t welcomed.

While the band members understand the impact their visibility has — especially for non-white kids who grew up in the suburbs as they did: skating, riding BMX, building Legos, watching anime, dreaming of a life onstage — it does require some balance. “They’re not asking Taking Back Sunday this stuff,” Dangerfield acknowledged when asked if they might tire of the representation mantle. “Or Blink, but … We are a minority in this space and in this country, and I think that you know the stuff that comes with being Black should definitely be talked about. I think those conversations are important.”

He said as much in August, when the group made its Tiny Desk debut in celebration of NPR’s Black Music Month. “Now, like they said, we made history,” he said, leaning into the mic after the first song. “And the Paradox is in the business of bringing rock ’n’ roll back to the originators.”

A glance at the comment section under the video makes clear the group’s authenticity resonates with those who haven’t felt seen or heard in certain spaces.

“I’m a black girl from the suburbs of Metro ATL,” wrote @rainjojo. “And I’m glad to see representation of people who are like me indulging in punk rock. I got into this genre from childhood shows like “16,” “Stoked”, and other early 2000 to 2010 shows, and I remember being bullied for being whitewashed. Please keep making more music like this.”

The tour is named after “Proceed With Caution,” the band’s sophomore EP released on Oct. 2. Across six tracks, it continues in the same vein as “NSFW,” with sharp melodies and a dash of humor thrown in. But on “That’s Not Fair,” the group wades deeper into social commentary. It was also the most difficult to record, cut raw with no click track.

“We were just trying to think of things that were not fair, [from] small and trivial like losing your keys to, I don’t know, using it as a bridge to talk about larger issues and things like that,” Dangerfield says of the song. “I think a big thing for me personally, it’s not political … is kind of the fact that everything is getting so expensive. The price of everything is rising so rapidly, and the salaries that people are being paid are not really growing to match that.”

The Paradox perform at The Moroccan Lounge on Thursday, Oct. 22.

(Hunter Lyon)

“And it’s like, we got very lucky, but the thing is, most people don’t,” he continued. “If you’re gonna sacrifice all your time, slaving away working for big corporations and stuff like that, you should at least be able to, you know, buy a candy bar or something.”

So far, the musicians aren’t taking anything for granted and are trying to enjoy the in-between moments.

Dangerfield and his wife took their daughter on a Disney cruise for her second birthday — she’s spent much of her young life traveling with the band.

With some of his publishing money, Bernard indulged his love of vintage Japanese fashion and has a 2000s-era Tuscan house on his vision board. Crews stays healthy, listens to lots of Snarky Puppy, and looks forward to the relaxed cannabis laws of L.A. when the tour stops at the Moroccan Lounge on Oct. 22 and 23. If time allows, he might even have time to surf in Malibu.

Bryant, who counts Mike Dirnt, Mark Hoppus and James Jamerson among his biggest influences, balances a dream of seeing his band play for thousands with looking forward to a life lived like his older brother: a chiropractor with a nice family.

But some dreams will have to wait as the band goes back to making music, hopefully with lasting impact. The members want to become household names, “like Nirvana,” with music people will play for hundreds of years. Why not?

Anything is possible when you are a fantastic foursome.