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A “RARE” 50p coin has hit eBay with a whopping £10,000 price tag – and now collectors are scrambling to check their change.

The coin, is said to mark a significant national celebration and has drawn attention for its sky-high listing.

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Released by the Royal Mint in 2006, the coin commemorates 150 years since the creation of the Victoria Cross medal, Britain’s highest honour for military bravery.

Two designs were issued: one featuring the medal itself, and the other showing a soldier carrying a wounded comrade to safety.

The Victoria Cross was first awarded during the Crimean War and has remained a powerful symbol of heroism.

The coin was part of a special release to honour those who have shown outstanding courage in battle.

While collectors often believe these coins are rare, the Royal Mint says a combined 22,087,500 of them were put into circulation, meaning there’s still a decent chance of finding one in your spare change.

According to a report by the Eastern Daily Press, the seller has listed the 2006 Victoria Cross Coin- which honours Britain’s highest military bravery medal – for £10,086.72 on the auction site.

In their description, the seller wrote: “Add this circulated 50p coin to your collection to celebrate the bravery of Victoria Cross recipients.

“This coin is a great addition to any collection and is perfect for those interested in British history and military honours.”

The coin is marked as “ungraded and uncertified”, meaning it hasn’t been professionally appraised.

Collectors usually pay top prices for coins in mint condition or with an official grading, so the value of this listing may come down to personal interest or sentiment.

Some sellers on eBay list coins for high prices in hopes that a keen buyer will pay a premium, but it doesn’t always mean the coin is worth that amount.

It’s important to compare with similar listings and see what items have actually sold for.

The Royal Mint has released dozens of 50p designs over the years, many of which have become popular with hobbyists and seasoned collectors alike.

Coins linked to key moments in British history or iconic figures tend to attract the most attention.

The Kew Gardens 50p, issued in 2009, is widely considered the “holy grail” of coin collecting due to its limited run of just 210,000 coins.

Because of its scarcity, it regularly sells for over £140 and has even reached prices of £700.

Another standout is the Blue Peter 50p, designed by nine-year-old Florence Jackson.

Released ahead of the 2012 Olympics, it features a childlike drawing of a high jumper and has gone for over £200 at auction.

Olympic-themed coins remain especially collectible. The 2012 Football 50p, known for its diagram explaining the offside rule, has a strong following and has sold for up to £24.

More recently, the King Charles III Atlantic Salmon 50p, launched in 2023, has made a splash with collectors.

With its new royal portrait and striking wildlife design, it has been fetching upwards of £85 online.

There’s also value in unusual minting errors, which can make an ordinary coin instantly more desirable.

Misprints, off-centre designs or double striking can turn everyday change into valuable finds.

Experts always recommend checking sites like Change Checker or the Royal Mint’s collector page to learn more about the coins in your wallet.

These resources offer guides, mintage figures and a scarcity index to help buyers and sellers know what’s genuinely rare.

And it’s not just coins raking in the cash.

Banknotes with rare or significant serial numbers can sell for thousands.

A Jane Austen £10 note with a birth year serial made headlines after selling for £3,600.

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A YOUNG mum and her unborn baby tragically died just days after Christmas.

Aleisha Fisher, 29, was found by paramedics at her home in Lancashire after her cousin made a desperate call to 999.

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Aleisha, who was 30 weeks pregnant, was found on her bathroom floor by paramedics who were sadly unable to revive her.

Her baby was also found to have no signs of life.

Aleisha’s family have since given her unborn baby the name Aria May.

The events leading up to Aleisha’s death are largely unknown, but her cousin has said that Aleisha went to sleep on the evening of December 27.

She was found dead a day later.

The 29-year-old is known to have suffered with epilepsy but it is unknown if this is related to her cause of death.

An inquest, aimed at examining the cause of her death, was launched in May 2025.

Ahead of the inquest, Area Coroner Kate Bisset said: “She was last seen alive by her family at around 11pm.

“At around 10am the following morning her cousin woke on the couch and noticed Aliesha was on the floor of her bedroom not moving.

“Paramedics [confirmed death] shortly afterwards. She was 30 weeks pregnant.

“The paramedics sadly confirmed no evidence of life from the baby.

“The final inquest will consider the cause of death and what led to the tragic loss of this young woman and her unborn baby.

“There is no suggestion of self-harm or any deliberate causes of this baby’s death.”

Aliesha’s family posted a touching tribute to their loved one on the website muchloved.com.

The post read: “This site is a tribute to Aliesha Fisher and AriaMay Wright.

“Aliesha is much loved and will always be remembered. Together forever.”

The news comes just days after a woman was arrested in Blackpool for allegedly trying to steal a baby from its parents.

The incident took place near the Blackpool Promenade and sae members of the public stepping in to protect the baby and its parent.

Investigations into the incident are now ongoing.

SHOPPERS are racing to Lidl to grab a garden lighting essential that’s perfect for summer evenings – and it’s up to £8 cheaper than similar buys at other big-name stores.

The Livarno Home LED Parasol String Lights are on shelves for just £7.99 and have got garden lovers buzzing online.

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They feature 72 twinkling mini LEDs, eight vintage-style bulbs, and give off a warm white glow – perfect for adding atmosphere to your patio or balcony.

There’s also a six-hour timer, so you can set them and relax without worrying about turning them off.

They’re designed for outdoor use and stretch 3 metres, so they’re ideal for wrapping around parasols or fencing.

The lights sparked a flurry of excitement on social media after one eagle-eyed shopper posted: “LED Parasol lights spotted at LIDL..!”

The post quickly racked up comments, with one fan writing: “Perfect. Hope they still have them tomorrow.”

Another tagged a mate and said: “I now fully understand why you were so excited… these look awesome!”

A third added: “Ooo these are so cute!!!”

But not everyone was glowing with praise. 

One unhappy customer hit out: “This is the most disappointing product I have EVER bought from Lidl.

“The cabling is short, no means of fixing & if you do waste 2 hours of your life persevering in fixing these lights, they then interfere with the operation of the parasol & the cables are sliced.

“Save your money, don’t bother!!!”

Still, plenty of shoppers reckon they’re a steal – especially compared to similar options:

• Amazon’s Smart Garden Altuna Luces DE Cadena 72 LED – £14.50
• Parasol String Lights 80 Warm White LED Garden Timer Lights – £15.99

That means you could save up to £9 by choosing Lidl’s version.

Remember to compare prices

It is important to remember to always shop around when buying something like this as you might find a cheaper alternative.

Websites like Trolley and Price Spy let you compare thousands of products across different retailers to find the best price.

Price Spy even lets you see how much an item has cost over time, so you can see if the current price is a good deal.

A quick scan on the Google Shopping/Product tab will also bring up how much retailers are selling a certain item for.

Previous garden sales

Last month, Middle of Lidl standout included Vileda Mixer 3 Tower Airer, labelled a “Top Pick” by the retailer and was priced at £29.99.

Elsewhere, Aldi recently launched a gorgeous new garden must-have Decorative Table for just £14.99, perfect for creating your own Mediterranean retreat.

Recent Specialbuys from the discounter has also included the popular solar lights range.

As well as a cheaper alternative to the Karcher pressure washer by some £80.

Elsewhere, B&M released a number of garden furniture, this included a Sienna double egg chair which retails for £250.

It also released the Paris 2-Seater Pod Chair is on sale also priced at £250.

Recently, Argos slashed its prices on a massive range of outdoor and DIY essentials, with discounts of up to £60.

In March, Wilko knocked down prices on patio sets, lounge chairs, and bistro sets.

How can I save money when shopping at Lidl?

Lidl reduces items at the start of the day, and the best deals can be found between 7am and 8am, when most stores open.

Shoppers can often find cooked meats, salmon fillets and breads reduced by 30% or more.

Not only does Lidl have its own range of reasonably priced alcohol, it also has its own knock-offs of branded favourites – so say cheers to its bargain booze.

Everyone knows about the “Middle of Lidl” – it’s here where you’ll find a load of random stuff you didn’t realise you needed, at decent prices.

But if you are hoping to avoid spending more than you planned, you can check what will be in the “Middle of Lidl” on the supermarket’s website in advance.

The Middle of Lidl is refreshed every Thursday and Sunday.

Shoppers can also keep tabs on what’s appearing in the “Pick of the Week” section on the Lidl website.

The discounts happen every Thursday and are usually on fruit, vegetables, and meat.

Sunscreen applied to the skin are designed to protect people from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are harmful because they can damage skin cells, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer

Martin Lewis has urged holidaymakers to check their sunscreen bottles before heading away.

The money-saving expert has turned his wisdom towards the world of travel cosmetics, offering a tip that could protect tourists’ health this summer. Speaking on his Martin Lewis Podcast, he asked listeners if they knew whether or not their sun cream bottles were in date.

While it may seem like a product that can sit at the back of a cupboard indefinitely without going off, that is not the case. Sun cream products have a shelf life, and they can become much less useful if they are out of date.

Sunscreen applied to the skin is designed to protect people from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are harmful because they can damage skin cells, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. They can also cause eye damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Additionally, UV rays can suppress the immune system.

READ MORE: ‘I was nervous to travel after my husband died until I made a special friend on holiday’

Martin explained to his listeners why it’s worth checking their sun cream bottles and consider throwing them away if they’re out of date. “Just a quick tip on sunscreen. When you get your sunscreen, turn the bottle around because on the back you’ll see a POA number,” he said.

POA stands for ‘period after opening’ and is typically 12 or 24 months. “[When you open the bottle] Put a little note of the date, write that onto the sunscreen and you’ll know if you try to use it in a year’s time whether it’s still valid or not,” Martin advised.

Like most cosmetics, the ingredients in sunscreen degrade over time and become less effective once they do.

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Ron Robinson, cosmetic chemist and CEO of BeautyStat, told Vogue that most sun creams are formulated to last up to three years if unopened and stored in a cool, dry environment that is not in direct sunlight. Generally speaking, powdered sunscreen contains minerals that are more stable and longer-lasting, while liquid formulas will be less stable.

According to Ron you might get lucky – some sunscreens can last longer than others. If the bottle is stored in a cool, dry place and shows no visible signs of degradation, it may still offer some protection. However, it is always best to use products that are within date.

The beautiful Greek island of Ithaca is known as the home of Odysseus, the hero of Homer’s epic poem, the Odyssey – and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway

The enchanting Greek island of Ithaca is steeped in myth and legend, boasting charming villages, idyllic beaches, and verdant landscapes. As the second tiniest of the seven principal Ionian islands, reaching Ithaca involves a flight to Kefalonia followed by a swift 25-minute ferry crossing.

Famed as the homeland of Odysseus, the protagonist of Homer’s renowned epic ‘the Odyssey’, Ithaca symbolises steadfast love and yearning for home, as it was here that Penelope loyally awaited her husband’s return from the Trojan War for two decades. Ithaca’s allure lies not just in its literary ties but also as an ideal spot for romance, embodying the essence of homecoming and familial bonds.

READ MORE: Adolescence star Ashley Walters on ‘finding peace’ riding electric motorbike

In a piece for The Telegraph back in 2016, children’s author Anthony Horowitz was captivated by its beauty, remarking, “My first impression was that it was far more beautiful than anywhere I’d been in Greece.”

He regretted his brief stay, saying, “I spent just two days there before moving on to Kefalonia but I wish I’d stayed longer.” TripAdvisor reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors hailing Ithaca as “Paradise on Earth” and praising it as “a perfect harbour village”.

One traveller’s experience at Gedaki Beach was glowing: “One of the most beautiful beaches of Ithaca. Great blue close to Vathi. You will fully enjoy it with a boat.”

Vathy, the capital since the 16th century, is a picturesque tapestry of cream, yellow, and pink buildings, reconstructed after the devastating 1953 earthquake that shook many Ionian islands.

Thanks to aid from Europe and the US, Ithaca saw a significant restoration, reports the Express.

The enchanting medieval village of Anogi and the storied Monastery of Kathara are must-sees. Nestled on the southeastern summit of the legendary Mount Nirito, facing the bay of Ithaca’s harbour, the monastery ensures its steeple can be spotted from all over the south side of the isle.

Sadly, the bell tower fell victim to earthquakes but has since been reconstructed. Ithaca boasts a serenity that outshines its larger neighbour Kefalonia, offering minimal nightlife with just a handful of tavernas and relaxed bars scattered about.

Described poetically by Discover Greece: “Symbolic of the promised land for which everyone is searching, magical Ithaca fills you with inspiration on a journey through rich history, majestic scenery and beautiful beaches.”

As the temperatures are set to get warmer, now is the time to get out into the great outdoors and make the most of the weather.

With the mercury on the rise, it’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the great outdoors and bask in the delightful weather. For those who relish a good stroll, accompanied by tunes, podcasts, or audiobooks, you’ll find that time whizzes by while you’re getting your steps in.

Walking isn’t just a calorie burner; it’s also fantastic for elevating your spirits, enhancing circulation, reducing blood pressure, and increasing your heart rate. Recent findings have pinpointed the UK city that reigns supreme for a leisurely walk. This accolade comes from Injury Claims, who analysed over 200,000 park reviews from 74 key UK cities and towns.

READ MORE: Adolescence star Ashley Walters on ‘finding peace’ riding electric motorbike

Hereford emerged victorious, with a plethora of Tripadvisor reviews praising its “relaxing”, “peaceful”, “calm”, and “tranquil” ambiance, earning the city an impressive score of 28.88%.

What is there to do in Hereford?

Nestled in Herefordshire, this cathedral city sits gracefully along the River Wye, a mere 16 miles from the Welsh border. Boasting a population exceeding 53,000, Hereford stands as the largest settlement in Hertfordshire, reports the Express.

The city’s crown jewel for nature lovers is Weir Garden, celebrated for its lush woodlands and immaculate gardens. As a proud part of the National Trust, it boasts a stellar 4.5 rating on Google.

Some visitors have left glowing reviews about the beauty of the gardens. One enthused: “Beautiful gardens in any weather, the area down by the river is stunning, also from the top of the hill, the view of the river is great for any photographer.”

Another shared their serene experience: “A quiet walk round the gardens for a moment of reflection. Lovely views from the top of the gardens, looking down to the river Wye.

“Quite a few families with their children and people with their dogs, which was lovely to see.” And another commented on their recent visit: “Had a lovely walk here last weekend, really beautiful views of the river and the gardens.

“I also really loved the walled garden here too, lots of plants and vegetables being grown that you can look at as well as a greenhouse you can go in.” Castle Green is another recommended spot – it’s a public park set on the old grounds of Hereford Castle and entry won’t cost you a penny.

This park boasts a stellar 4.4 rating on Google, with one visitor remarking: “Lovely spot on a sunny day. Gardens well tended. Stroll along the River Wye, or walk over the bridge into the bigger King George V Playing fields.

“Huge space, great for picnics, games, relaxing.” Yet another said: “A lovely place to chill out in the sun! Very beautiful.”

And a third added: “Lovely area to relax with a picnic etc. Grassed area where you can sit or play games. Path that goes around the outside so good for jogging.”

They also highlighted its convenience: “Ideally situated as close to town and also other places like swimming pool and Bishops Meadow.”

How to get to Hereford

If you’re planning a road trip from London, it’s a journey of roughly four hours covering 135 miles – though do bear in mind that traffic could add to your travel time.

For those setting off from other major cities, the distances are considerably less: Birmingham is just 58 miles away, Cardiff is a mere 56 miles, and Manchester is a bit further at 138 miles.

Public transport links are also plentiful. Direct trains run daily to Hereford, Ledbury and Colwall from Birmingham New Street Station, and there’s a regular service between Manchester and Cardiff.

And for those in the capital, direct trains from London Paddington to Hereford will get you there in about three hours.

Here are the top 10 places to go for a walk, according to Injury Claims:

• Hereford
• Bristol
• Lincoln
• Milton Keynes
• Oxford
• Gloucester
• Swansea
• Carlisle
• Warrington
• Newcastle upon Tyne

The couple knew they didn’t want to live in the UK when they eventually retire, but never realised they would buy a village for less than a house in the UK

With house prices skyrocketing and UK salaries not keeping up, this British couple decided to ditch the rat race and follow their dream of moving to France. But they didn’t just find a house – they bought a whole village.

Ben Pearson, 39 and his husband Nathan, 31 had been craving simpler life for a while. And when Ben’s mum, Karen Pearson, 62 moved to France 10 years ago, the idea became more real. On a visit to see her seven years ago, they stumbled across an abandoned farm – one they can now call home.

The farm comes with five outbuildings and two hectares of land, dating back to the 1600s. Eventually, they hope to turn some of the outbuildings into Airbnb’s and guest houses – but for now, the focus is making the house liveable.

The property has no heating or even a toilet, but Ben has plans to transform it into a three bed home, all by himself. “It’s getting out of the 9 to 5 rat race in England,” said Ben, an RAF aircraft engineer. “There’s no way we could afford something like that in the UK.”

They started searching for a retirement home three years ago, but nothing felt right. It wasn’t until two years ago, the same farmhouse came back on the market. After two years of paperwork, they finally got the keys in December 2024. “You can barely buy a flat for £80k,” Ben added “it’s a nicer way of life – there’s no running around,” Ben added.

The property is the oldest in its little commune. The main house dates back to the early 1800s, and the farmhouse 1600s. Right now, the only source of heat is an open fire. It needs a new roof, septic tank and modern heating but the couple hope to have a liveable room within six months. Until then, they will be living in a caravan.

Inside, the house still holds traces of the past – old pots, pans, and mason jars left behind on the shelves. They plan to preserve as much of the history as they can while restoring it. “We want to keep the grandeur of it all,” Nathan added.

They sold everything in the UK and are making the big move in July to start working on their retirement home. “When we dreamed of a simpler life, we somehow ended up buying a small village – we wouldn’t change it for the world,” Nathan said

But the couple can’t wait to move and get out of the UK, while some believe French people can be ‘snobbish’, the couple has had a very different experience. “Even when you go to the nearest town the people are friendly and welcoming,” Nathan said. “This is the sort of thing we’d been looking for.”

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FURIOUS Charlie Fellowes will lodge an appeal after Shes Perfect was robbed of the French 1,000 Guineas by the stewards.

The 18-1 shot was chucked out after drifting off-line around a furlong and a half out, with hot favourite Zarigana briefly knocked off her stride.

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Fellowes’ filly held on by a nose under Kieran Shoemark but the stewards turned the result around in favour of Francis-Henri Graffard’s runner.

But replays showed jockey Mickael Barzalona dropped his whip after using it twice – and then slapped the horse down the neck 12 times on the run-in.

France has similar whip rules to Britain, with a limit of six and automatic disqualification is used nine times.

And Fellowes argues that Barzalona’s actions, combined with minimal contact in the straight, is more than enough grounds for an appeal.

He said: “We wanted to let the dust settle and take the emotion out of the situation and think with a clear head before making our decision.

“Firstly, the contact was minimal and it was a long way out, so we think Zarigana had enough time to get past if she was good enough.

“But more importantly we want clarification on the rules about the way he uses his stick twice, drops it then slaps her 12 times.

“It sets an awful precedent and cannot be right. If it’s allowed, what’s to stop jockeys using up their whip count, putting it down then slapping the horse? It’s a terrible look.

“I can’t understand how it can be deemed he didn’t break the rules. It wasn’t mentioned to us when we were invited into the stewards’ room on the day.

“I’m incredibly proud of Shes Perfect and Luther ran a brilliant race in the 2,000 Guineas to be fourth. We only have 40 horses so to have two run so well in Classics is incredible.

“I’m not sure of the timeframe but we have 48 hours to appeal and we will do so.”

Helen McGlashan, 59, from Manchester, pushed herself to head off on a solo holiday with Riviera Travel following her retirement and the death of her husband, Alastair

A woman who travelled solo for the first time after her husband died found a new lease of life and a close friend on the road.

Following a break-up or bereavement, especially, booking a solo holiday for the first time can seem intimidating. For many, the thought of stepping into the unknown without a familiar companion might be nerve-wracking, – but it can also be empowering.

Group tours can help people in that situation explore the world on their own while offering the comfort of being surrounded by like-minded travelers. This has certainly been the case for Helen McGlashan, 59, from Manchester. The former director of residential and sports services at the University of Manchester retired in 2020 after the death of her husband, Alastair.

READ MORE: £4 tickets from UK cities to Cornwall on offer – but you’ll need to act fast

She said: “Following my husband’s death in 2019, I needed some time out. He had been ill for a while, so we hadn’t really travelled much. I took my first solo trip later that year, when I went to Krakow with Riviera Travel. I was used to going away with my husband, and I was a bit nervous about the thought of doing it on my own – so I decided to start with a shorter trip.”

Understandably, Helen felt some nerves before joining the group trip.

She admitted: “When I got to the airport, I was thinking, ‘What if I don’t make friends with anybody and I’m Billy No-Mates?’ But that’s never happened [on a Riviera Travel holiday].”

The Riviera Travel team – which has been operating in the UK for more than 40 years – meets their solo guests at the departure airport or St Pancras International if travelling by Eurostar.

Since her first solo holiday, Helen has joined a wide range of river cruises, ocean cruises and land tours. She said: “On all of them, I have found people to be extremely friendly and willing to get together and do things as a group. I’ve never felt like I’m lacking company, in fact, it’s been wonderful to share these experiences with people.

“The groups are always very mixed; you have couples but there are also siblings and friends travelling together. You’re dining together and sharing experiences, and there are lots of opportunities for socialising and mixing, so you get to know each other really well – and really quickly.”

Five years after her first solo tour, Helen has visited far-flung destinations such as India, Egypt, Jordan, Montenegro, Italy and Croatia – to name a few.

“My family has given me the nickname ‘Judith Chalmers’, after the former Wish You Were Here…? holiday show host, because of my extensive travels,” she joked.

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It was during one of her solo tours that Helen struck up a lasting friendship with one of her fellow individual travellers, Yvonne Palmer. She recalled: “I went to Undiscovered Italy in Puglia with Riviera Travel. When we arrived at Brindisi airport, there was a lady standing on her own and she approached me. We ended up sitting next to each other on the coach, and then our rooms were adjacent to one another. She is a widow also, and we have become great friends, and a support mechanism, for one another.

“Now, we travel together three or four times a year, both in the UK and abroad. We just went to Marrakech together. Travel brings a sense of joy and wonderment, and it reminds you what life is about. I think it’s a privilege to be able to meet so many different people, and it’s just nice to share things again.”

Helen has a long list of destinations she dreams of visiting in the future.

“I’m going on the Grand Tour of Sicily with Riviera Travel this September, and we’re going to go around the whole island. The itinerary is fantastic, we’re going to go up the volcano and we’ll be having canapes with a Duchess in Palermo.

“I’m also already looking at trips for 2026 and I’ve still got Sri Lanka, Japan, Romania, Transylvania and South Africa on my bucket list – you name it, I’m still excited to travel.”

For those who may be thinking about taking the leap and embarking on their first solo adventure, Helen has some words of encouragement.

“Just go for it – life is very short, and we never know what’s around the corner. There’s nothing to be fearful about, especially on a group tour. There’s a joint camaraderie, so if you’re having an issue there is always somebody there to help.”

Following a record-breaking 38 million overnight stays, one EU country – renowned for its beautiful scenery – is consulting on a bill that could add three per cent to tourists’ accommodation costs

Yet another EU country is mulling over a tourist tax, in what could be a huge blow to Brits. Once a lowkey destination, reserved only for series globetrotters and hiking enthusiasts – Norway has slowly slipped under the tourist spotlight.

Luring British holidaymakers with its ‘stunning’ mountains, glassy lakes, and chocolate box cabins – Norway’s popularity has surged astronomically in the last few years. In fact, last year it garnered a record-breaking 38 million overnight stays – a four per cent spike from 2023.

Direct flights to Norway from major UK airports such as London Stansted, Gatwick, and Manchester have made the country even more accessible – and affordable, with return flights in June priced as low as £28*. It means trekking up to the majestic fjords for a weekend of walks, saunas, and wildlife spotting no longer guarantees you’ll be on your own.

READ MORE: Canary Island tourism chaos as hotel bookings ‘slump’ ahead of ‘bleak’ summer

While the country’s government says the tourism boost is ‘great’, it also acknowledges the strain holidaymakers can put on popular regions. As a result, it has proposed a ‘visitor contribution’ that municipalities can ‘voluntarily introduce’.

Following a round of consultation, the new bill has given municipalities the power to charge tourists three per cent on all forms of paid accommodation, including hotels, campsites, and rentals through platforms like Airbnb. For example, if you spend £100 on a hotel – you may be asked to pay £3 in tourist tax.

This is a two per cent reduction from the five per cent levy that was first proposed – to ‘reduce the burden on the accommodation industry’. The voluntary tax can also be adjusted based on the season. So, municipalities may choose to implement the levy during peak travelling times, and remove it during off-peak months.

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In a government press release, that has been translated into English, Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth warned: “If the tourism industry is to continue to grow, this must happen within sustainable frameworks. We must address the challenges. Visitor contributions have been introduced in many countries in Europe. Payment in connection with accommodation is the most common form of visitor contribution in those countries that have chosen to introduce this.”

Profits from the tourist tax cannot be used to ‘balance municipal budgets’ and should be strictly for financing tourism-related public goods. This include the installation of toilets, waste disposal, and information activities.

“In the long term, a moderate visitor contribution can help make travel destinations more attractive to tourists and reduce the inconvenience to local residents,” the government added. “This contributes to better trust between the industry, visitors and local residents.”

*Prices based on Skyscanner listings at the time of writing.

Would a tourist tax put you off from visiting Norway? Have your say in the comments section below

FORMER Manchester United chief Tom Keane has lifted the lid on the club’s record-breaking 2022 summer transfer window.

Keane was their head of negotiations as they splurged a club high of £225million on six new signings.

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In Erik ten Hag’s first window at the Old Trafford he bought Antony (£85m), Casemiro (£70m), Lisandro Martinez (£57m), Tyrell Malacia (£13m), Christian Eriksen (free) and Martin Dubravka (loan).

Keane, who was only at United on a temporary basis for six months, played a huge role in talks and even flew to Spain to complete the Casemiro deal.

Opening about where it went wrong that summer, Keane told The Overlap: “There were a couple of challenges. One of the biggest was everyone was new.

“I’d just walked through the door, the manager came in in May, John Murtough had been at the club a while but had just become football director, Richard Arnold had just become CEO and there was a new head of data.

“The way it would normally work is the transfer window shuts and in September they start planning for the following summer.

“What happened for us that summer, I think because of circumstances, the work started in May.

“It felt like we did a year’s work in 12 to 16 weeks.

“I literally lived at the training ground and I didn’t see my family, which was fine as I knew what I was getting myself into and it was part of the experience.

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“The budget side of it, the finance department had oversight of everything that was going on to ensure the club was remaining compliant with its PSR obligations.

“In terms of negotiations, the process was really detailed and it had to be.

“Big sums of money, so the stakes are high and with football players you are signing humans.

“You can’t guarantee anything and all the work is trying to minimise risk. You’re trying to improve the chances of the signing being a success.”

All those involved in that transfer window like Ten Hag, Murtough and Arnold have since left the club.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has built his own team that involves CEO Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox.

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The advice comes from a Financial Crime Manager, who explained how scammers are targeting holidaymakers

An expert is urging Brits to research deals before booking vacations after over £11 million was lost to holiday fraud in 2024. Siobhan Blagbrough, Financial Crime Manager at Ocean Finance, explained: “Everyone’s looking for a bargain break, and that makes us more likely to rush into things without checking the details properly.

“Fraudsters take advantage of the seasonal demand by posting fake listings, posing as landlords or travel agents, and demanding upfront payments for holidays that don’t exist.” She also warned against a Global Health Insurance Card scam, adding: “We’re also seeing people being tricked into paying for Global Health Insurance Cards (GHICs), which are free through the NHS.”

As per the NHS website, “The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) lets you get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA), and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country (…) A UK GHIC is free and lasts for up to 5 years. Apply for your new card through the NHS website. Avoid unofficial websites – they may charge you a fee to apply.”

Unfortunately, it’s not the only scam aimed at UK holidaymakers. Siobhan said: “The most common trick is to pile on the pressure, scammers love using urgency to force quick decisions. If a deal seems too good to be true, take a step back and research before you book.”

Below, the expert shared five of the biggest holiday scams to watch out for.

Fake accommodation listings

Siobhan warned: “Fraudsters will post holiday homes that don’t exist or aren’t available for rent, taking payments upfront before disappearing. These listings often appear on social media or lesser-known websites. Always double-check the listing by running a reverse image search and booking through trusted platforms.”

Clone comparison sites

“Some scammers go to great lengths to build fake versions of well-known holiday comparison or airline sites. They look almost identical but are set up purely to steal your payment details. Double-check the web URL and look out for subtle misspellings or unusual domain names,” the expert warned.

Bogus travel agents

“You might get a message from a ‘travel expert’ offering a last-minute deal that feels too good to ignore. They may even send what looks like a real booking confirmation,” the pro explained. “But behind the scenes, there’s no flight or hotel reservation. If they insist on a bank transfer or pressure you to book fast, walk away.”

Social media bargains

Siobhan said: “Many scammers use Facebook or Instagram to post holiday deals, but clicking through often leads to fake booking pages or demands for advance payments. They might say ‘only two spots left’ or ‘another family is interested’, but this urgency is all part of the scam.”

Fake GHIC websites

“Applying for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) through the NHS website is free, but scam websites sometimes charge a £30 – £40 fee to ‘process’ your application. These fake sites look professional and often rank high on search results, so it’s easy to be fooled,” the expert said.

How to protect your money

Siobhan suggested sticking to trusted sites and companies, paying by credit card for extra protection, and not ignoring warning signs. “If a deal looks unusually cheap for the time of year or destination, slow down and look a bit closer. Check whether the company is part of a recognised travel association like ABTA or ATOL. Even searching the company name with the word ‘scam’ can bring up useful results,” she said.

The expert added: “If you think you’ve been scammed, act fast. Contact your bank straight away – if the payment hasn’t gone through yet, they might be able to stop it. If it has, they can talk you through what to do next. It’s also important to report the scam to Action Fraud and Citizens Advice, and if the scam came via email, forward it to [email protected].”

A MAJOR change to a motorway used by around 180,000 drivers daily is set to take effect from today.

A reduced speed limit is being introduced on a long stretch of the M60, requiring motorists to slow down.

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The new limit on the motorway is to be set at 50mph – with the road slowed for at least three months.

The change was revealed in the wake of National Highways announcing a key programme of safety work along the motorway.

Work will stretch across several junctions on the busy carriageway, with motorists slowed as a result.

Traffic management will start at junction 16 and end east of junction 17 – with the project set to end in August with the speed limit change in place for the duration of the works.

Drivers have been told to expect delays throughout this period as motorway traffic is significantly slowed.

Work will take place mainly at night to reduce disruption, but the speed limit change will be in effect throughout the day.

Engineers will install a new central reservation between junction 16 and junction 18.

National Highways said: “We’ll mainly work at night Monday to Friday, but some activities will also be done during the day.

“For safety, a 50mph speed limit and narrow lanes will be in place round-the-clock throughout our work in both directions.

“Traffic management will start at junction 16 and finish east of junction 17 near Prestwich.

“Some minor delays are expected, so we’re advising drivers to plan and allow extra time to complete journeys.”

A resurfacing project will be undertaken at the same time to avoid disruption.

This project at junction 17 will require overnight closures for three weeks.

National Highways said: “To reduce disruption, we’re coordinating programmes with nearby resurfacing schemes at junction 17 close to Prestwich.

“This includes our work on slip roads and Bury Council’s project to resurface the junction roundabout.

“Please note, this requires overnight closures for three weeks from Monday 16 June to Friday 4 July.

“During any road closure, please follow the clearly signed diversion.

“We’re working hard to minimise the impact of our work. However, it will generate some delays and noise.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you and thank you for bearing with us.”

According to Highways England, some 180,000 drivers use the M60, as well as the M62, each day.

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A woman has shared her ‘perfect’ packing hack that allows her to fit her entire wardrobe in a small hand luggage bag – and she even packed her flip-flops and sun cream too

Jetting off on holiday is always a buzz, but the battle of cramming your life into a suitcase can be a real pain. Packing can feel like a huge task, with the struggle to fit all your must-haves, especially if you don’t want to pay extra for luggage. But this year, a packing hack from a clever TikToker could change the game.

The user, who goes by Devinjadex on TikTok, shared a video that shows how you can get all your clothes into just a small bag. It sounds too good to be true, but she pulls it off without a hitch.

In her video, she talks about a specific bag she uses, and admits people “don’t believe” you can pack an entire wardrobe in there. Yet, she stands by her word. Known as the Ryanair travel bag, it’s exactly 40x20x25, making it “perfect to take on budget airlines”. She shared that she bought the bag from Kono & Miss Lulu on TikTok.

To prove her point, she posted a clip of herself skilfully filling the bag with all her travel essentials. Her stash included outfits, flip-flops, swimwear, and beauty products, enough for a four night trip.

The TikToker brags that everything fits “perfectly” into the bag, which also slips neatly under the plane seat. She highlights that you can get “so much stuff” into the small suitcase, and it’s super efficient.

She boasts that this straightforward method let her take “everything she needed for a holiday” without forking out extra cash.

The brilliant packing hack has sparked a buzz as intrigued followers asked for details on her smart travel tip.

One hopeful follower shared: “I just ordered one – you better not be lying.” Another praised: “Looks great – can really fit a lot in there.”

A third user said they also managed to pull off the packing trip: “I have it – it fits. And mine was stuffed to capacity. Trust.”

Despite lots of enthusiasm, some voiced scepticism about the bag’s true capacity, with one doubter remarking: “I’ve got the bag, and don’t feel like it fits this much in.”

Someone else pondered the practicality, asking: “Is it not really heavy to carry?”.

Yet, amidst the doubts, numerous travellers said the method was “absolutely perfect”, with plenty indicating plans to try it out themselves on future trips. A few had already put the hack through its paces with great results.

One flyer commented: “I have one of these recently, went to Spain for four days. Had all I needed – brilliant!”.

Another user spoke out against the cynics: “Everyone commenting that it won’t fit, trust me it will. I’ve got a bag similar size. I actually packed a little more than her, and mine surprised me and actually fit at EasyJet gate the other week.”

HYDRANGEAS are beautiful when they bloom, but are yours looking rather brown and crispy?

Well, if yours could do with some TLC and you aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve got all the handy tips and tricks you’ll need. 

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Hydrangeas are known for their big, beautiful cluster flower heads, but it appears that many gardeners often do not know how to care for them properly, which can prevent them from flowering. 

With May in full swing, hydrangeas are just beginning to grow again, and gardeners often fertilise or prune them now to help encourage bigger blooms in the future. 

However, a gardening pro has revealed the big mistake people must avoid if they want their hydrangeas to bloom this month.

Not only this, but Heather Stoven from Oregon State University, also shared the real reason why hydrangeas can sometimes look a bit worse for wear. 

Heather revealed the two gardening jobs that must be avoided, as she recommended: “Avoid pruning; the resulting lush new growth will be sensitive to further damage from heat waves later in the summer.

“Also avoid fertilising as excess fertiliser can attract pests to the plant.”

It may seem obvious to fertilise plants to get more flowers, but according to Heather, now that we’re in May, it is far too early to feed hydrangeas. 

Fertilising hydrangeas now will result in weak growth that is unlikely to survive in the heat.

Not only this, but it will also attract insects who look for softener foliage that is easier for them to eat. 

Many hydrangeas have already formed their flower buds and pruning them now will risk cutting off the blooms, meaning you will not get any flowers at all. 

Doing so will stress out the plant when it is actually growing, further causing damage. 

However, according to the pro, hydrangeas are thirsty plants due to their big leaves which can quickly lose water.

As a result, the biggest mistake many gardeners make is not watering them enough in May.

Gardening tips and hacks

It is crucial to water hydrangeas properly to help establish strong roots so they can retain more water once summer arrives. 

If hydrangeas do not get enough water while they are growing new roots, then the plant will not be strong enough to grow flowers and can even die if under too much stress. 

Heather acknowledged: “If not enough water is available in the soil, or it is lost to the atmosphere faster than it can be replaced, then the plant tissue where the water can’t reach will die. 

Water plants deeply prior to the heat event so that the root zone is well hydrated

Heather

“This is why we see so many brown, crispy leaf edges. It is also possible for high heat itself to cause tissue death.”

According to Heather, the best way to help hydrangeas at the moment is to water them deeply and keep the soil hydrated.

Having said that, you will need to make sure you are watering at the right time. 

It is better to water hydrangeas in the morning as the hotter weather later on in the day will cause water evaporation, meaning a large proportion of moisture will not make it to the soil. 

Watering hydrangeas in the morning allows them to absorb water more efficiently and ensures roots are hydrated throughout the day, which in turn will help them grow stronger and healthier. 

Heather advised: “Water plants deeply prior to the heat event so that the root zone is well hydrated.”

If you choose the right time to water hydrangeas and do it consistently, this will ensure you help these beautiful plants grow to their full potential so you get lots of lovely big blooms once summer arrives.

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Berlin-based musicologist Dr. Liam Cagney shares his thoughts on the recent University of Bath study sharing the elusive paradox of door selection at Berlin’s infamous techno clubs

The criteria for getting into Berlin’s renowned techno clubs has long been shrouded in mystery, but a recent study sought to shed light on the door selection process. Published in the Journal of Marketing, the research from the University of Bath, King’s College London, and Freie Universität Berlin revealed door ‘selectors’ paradoxically look for people that ‘fit in’ and ‘stand out’ to add to the experience.

But according to Berlin-based writer and musicologist, Dr. Liam Cagney, the study only tells part of the story. Cagney suggests that Berlin’s club scene exists “somewhere between a public space and a private space” making the criteria for door selection more of an artform.

READ MORE: Harry Styles parties at notorious German club that refused Elon Musk

“The door selectors are like people who are giving out invitations to attend the party…they’re inviting people to come into their house in a way,” explains Cagney. He says that Berlin’s heritage means that clubs are space for rethinking social interactions and that significance can cause confusion for club tourists that show up and expect to be allowed in.

That said, he accepts that clubs make use of the experience economy and monopolise on people’s curiosity for business reasons. “It’s like a big, imposing wall, almost like a second Berlin wall,” says Cagney. “There’s probably an intentional aspect of keeping things hidden and that excites desire.”

Social platforms like TikTok have driven swarms of ‘techno tourists’ to the city and to test their luck getting into the most scrupulous clubs. There are also dedicated Reddit threads and videos about how to act and dress to increase your chances of getting invited inside well-known haunts like Berghain and Tresor.

According to Cagney, the social media tourists have brought a more “consumerist attitude” to the scene and can negatively affect the experience of regulars. “You notice them appearing in the club and they’re kind of looking around as if they’re at a zoo”.

In Cagney’s view, it’s up to the bouncers to protect the space for regulars. He says that he’s seen the bouncers get creative when it comes to dealing with who gets in on a given night. He describes one evening when it seems bouncers were rejecting anyone wearing black. “It was like they decided, okay, we’re going to f–k with this today. We’re going to buck the stereotype.”

Still, being rejected at the doors after you’ve queued for hours is certainly a gutting experience, and Cagney says he and other Berghain regulars are not immune. But he contends that the current system is the “least bad option”, even though the door gets it wrong at times.

But that’s why Cagney says reframing the idea of Berlin techno clubs as more of a personal ‘party’ rather than just an entertainment venue is so important. “The unpredictability does make it more inaccessible, but it becomes less unpredictable once you’re really becoming more of an insider,” says Cagney.

Sometimes it just isn’t your night and that’s solely up to the discretion of the bouncers. Cagney recalls one tale of the bouncers deciding who to let in based only on their footwear. “I think occasionally they probably play a little bit with each other as well. They make up games to keep themselves amused.” Unpredictability is part of the territory.

Cagney will be publishing his novel, Berghain Nights, in October 2025. The book is an exploration of Berlin’s club scene. Blending essay and memoir and includes interviews with major electronic dance music artists and other members of Berlin’s night-time economy.

DAVID BECKHAM has lashed out at an MLS rival and demanded the club show a “little respect”.

Beckham’s Inter Miami were thrashed 4-1 by Minnesota United on Saturday.

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It was the first time Miami have lost by three goals or more since the arrival of Lionel Messi in 2023.

The heavy loss was the Herons’ fourth defeat in their last five matches.

And Minnesota’s social media team were keen to revel in victory after a dominant performance.

Following Saturday’s game, the club posted a picture of dejected Miami players on Instagram with the caption: “Pink Phony Club.”

The post referred to Miami’s pink kit and played on singer Chappell Roan’s mega-hit Pink Pony Club.

Co-owner Beckham, who helped found the club in 2018, didn’t see the funny side.

The England legend wrote in response on Instagram: “Show a little respect @mnufc be elegant in triumph.”

Minnesota fans had also taunted Miami before the game with a banner which read: “History over Hype, Culture over Cash”.

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After the image was shared by Minnesota’s official account, Beckham added: “Respect over everything @mnufc.”

Messi, 37, scored in Saturday’s 4-1 loss, his 44th since joining the club almost two years ago.

But Miami boss Javier Mascherano has now suffered five defeats since taking over in January.

And the Argentine admits he needs the club’s form to turn around ahead of June’s Club World Cup.

Mascerano said: “It’s a tough loss for us.

“We knew Minnesota could hurt us in this way, in transitions, on set pieces, and they hurt us in the way we had prepared for the game.

“That’s what worries me the most.

“If the players drop their levels, clearly the responsibility falls on me. All on me.

“If the coach does not convince them or transmit what he is looking for, all the responsibility falls on the coach.”

Despite being surrounded by a lush 140-acre woodland and ‘striking’ castle, this secluded stretch of golden sands has been named and shamed due to its ‘poor’ water quality

A ‘beautiful’ beach with sugar-like sand has slowly witnessed its reputation sink into the gutter. Tucked away on the south Cornish coast, with a ‘striking backdrop’ of the 200-year-old Caerhays Castle and its 140 acres of woodland gardens, lies the secluded family beach of Porthluney.

South-facing for maximum sunlight, the tiny cove – which is privately owned – has long been popular with Brits. On Trip Advisor, the beach has a slew of five-star reviews, with many describing the area as ‘lovely’ and ‘picturesque’.

However, most praise for the beach appears to be written several years ago, including one traveller who posted back in 2023: “I have visited this beach twice: once when the tide was right out and again when it was in. It is what beaches should all be about – with little rock pools and beautiful sand. Plus, very much a bonus, there’s a lovely cafe selling delicious food nearby.”

Others dubbed the beach a ‘beautiful’ spot that is perfect for a day of family fun. Even Visit Cornwall, the area’s official tourist board, states on its website: “There’s plenty of room for beach games and exploring the rocks on the west side at low tide. The beach is excellent for swimming.”

READ MORE: UK island named ‘patch of paradise’ which could be anywhere in the Mediterranean

However, Porthluney has recently been named and shamed, after winning an unwanted ‘Brown Flag Award‘ for the second consecutive year. UK travel firm holidayparkguru.co.uk granted the beach the tongue-in-cheek gong as part of its ‘top of the plops’ guide.

The company analysed official data from the Environment Agency to figure out which beaches had the worst water quality. While not endorsed by any government body, the ‘awards’ shed light on some of the UK’s grubbiest seas. The firm has even offered to send Porthluney a ‘tasteful’ brown flag with a poo emoji to ‘warn swimmers’.

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“Some of the worst water cleanliness readings were found at beaches at popular resorts including Blackpool, Weston Super Mare, and Bognor Regis,” explained holidayparkguru.co.uk. “This doesn’t necessarily mean the whole beach is ‘poor’ for bathing – it is sometimes just one section of beach.

“The water quality readings are based on readings taken in the warmer months (i.e. May 15th to September 30th). The sea is less likely to be clean in winter, as it rains more which leads to more unpleasant stuff overflowing into rivers and into the sea.”

The Brown Flag Awards – full list of winners

Winners of the Brown Flag had to score the lowest possible ‘poor’ rating from the Environment Agency’s water quality tests. This may be due to levels of bacteria such as e-coli from sewage and other waste. In alphabetical order by county, the winners are:

1. Porthluney in Cornwall
2. Coastguards Beach, Erme Estuary in Devon (Poocomer for 2025)
3. Lyme Regis Church Cliff Beach in Dorset (Poocomer for 2025)
4. Southsea East in Hampshire
5. Deal Castle in Kent (Poocomer for 2025)
6. Dymchurch in Kent (Poocomer for 2025)
7. Littlestone in Kent
8. Blackpool North in Lancashire
9. St Annes North in Lancashire
10. Heacham in Norfolk
11. Weston Main, Weston Super Mare Sand Bay, and Weston Super Mare Uphill Slipway in Somerset
12. Dunster Beach in Somerset
13. Blue Anchor West in Somerset (Poocomer for 2025)
14. Bognor Regis, Aldwick in Sussex
15. Worthing Beach House in Sussex (Poocomer for 2025)
16. Tynemouth Cullercoats in Tyne and Wear
17. Littlehaven Beach in Tyne and Wear (Poocomer for 2025)
18. Scarborough South Bay in North Yorkshire
19. Bridlington South Beach in East Riding of Yorkshire

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This Norfolk village is ideal for avid walkers and wildlife enthusiasts, with close proximity to the largest seal colony in England and a National Trust Nature Reserve

One north Norfolk village has been named among the best seaside spots in England in a guide created by travel experts. The guide was created by Condé Nast Traveller and is considered “the essential summer-holiday guide to England’s best seaside towns”.

It is no surprise that Blakeney made the list. The village is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and makes for an ideal base to explore the north Norfolk Coast. Though, according to Condé Nast Traveller, calling the area between Blakeney and its neighbour Cley ‘seaside’ is somewhat of a stretch.

That’s because, today, Blakeney and nearby Cley have marshland where the sea used to be. Still, the village is home to an impressive nature reserve filled with local wildlife and migratory birds as well as impressive views of uninterrupted coastline.

READ MORE: Pretty little UK seaside village with mini railway and huge 3-mile beach

A bustling commercial port for several centuries, Blakeney imported a wide range of goods, including timber and coal, and exported corn and wool. Today, the quay is mostly used for leisure activities, including walking, sailing, and birdwatching.

The Blakeney National Trust Nature Reserve at Blakeney Point is accessible by boat trip and is a great place for walking and spotting seals and diverse birdlife. Blakeney Point is a breeding site for seals and their pups, born during November to early January, It is also home to the largest seal colony in England with thousands of seal pups born annually.

The Point is the result of a longshore drift across the River Glaven and is continuously evolving with the tides. These conditions are evidently perfect for the growth of samphire – a sea vegetable with a salty flavour – that is a local delicacy.

If you want to avoid a boat trip, the Point can also be accessed on foot from Cley-next-the-Sea, but visitors are encouraged to check seasonal restrictions (in place to protect nesting birds and fragile habitats). There are typically restrictions on accessing the Point by foot in the summer.

As an alternative, travellers can watch the seals by boat from Morston Quay. Avid hikers and birdwatchers will find endless sources of intrigue and the secluded atmosphere creates an enhanced sense of escapism. Keep an eye out for ringed plovers, oystercatchers, brent geese and common teal.

That said, those keen on getting closer to the water shouldn’t be discouraged by the abundant marshland. To the west of the village in Holkham, travellers will find a “superb beach” and Wells-next-the-Sea has a “bucket-and-spade strip”.

For more adventurous beachseekers, Cley and Salthouse have pebbled shores that stretch for a few miles. Wells is home to a line of beach huts and also joins the expansive strand of Holkham to create one of the UK’s finest beaches. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the coast “fell asleep a couple of centuries ago and is just beginning to wake up” – which is the main reason for its appeal.

In the village, travellers will come across quaint flint cottages, traditionally the home of local fishermen. In addition to reflecting the area’s fishing heritage, they add a distinct charm to the community.

While Blakeney is less commercialised than other ‘seaside’ destinations, there are still plenty of places to eat and stay as well as pubs and art galleries to explore. The Blakeney Hotel has been a fixture of the village since opening in 1923 and Morston Hall, Cley Windmill and The Wiveton Bell are other great accommodation options.

On the outskirts of the village, travellers will find the historic St Nicolas Church – built sometime between the 13th and 15th century. The bus stop at St. Nicolas Church also happens to be the starting point of the Blakeney Freshes Coastal Walk.

Local residents have been warned by fire crews to keep all windows and doors shut while emergency services remain at the scene as they work on bringing the fire under control

Firefighters have rushed to the scene of a huge industrial fire in Sheffield this morning.

At 12.50am on Monday, May 12 South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were called the scene of a huge industrial fire. A number of crews and vehicles have been scrambled to the scene, including six fire engines and one aerial vehicle.

The fire service shared the following statement on X: “Six fire engines and one aerial vehicle are currently in attendance at an industrial fire at Manor Park Centre, Sheffield. Avoid the area if you can and keep windows and doors closed if you live nearby.”

At this stage it is unclear what building is alight or whether any injuries have been reported.

The Mirror has approached South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and South Yorkshire Police for an update on this developing incident.

This is a breaking news story. Follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.