Birmingham City Hospital officially closes after 130 years of service

Pompey Talk: The inside story on January transfer window

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On this week’s Pompey Talk, we relive a magical afternoon which could well prove to be a turning point in the Blues’ season, after Colby Bishop’s shock return and the 3-1 win over Preston. And Pompey writer Jordan Cross breaks down what the picture is likely to be in the January transfer window, as he offers the inside track on recruitment in the new year.

Glasgow bakery gets crowned Scotland’s Best Croissant

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A home-based micro-bakery in Glasgow has been crowned the winner of Scotland’s Best Croissant competition.<br /><br />Maple Leaf Bakery came out on top of a strong field of competitors who were judged on shape, colour, pastry development, texture and taste. <br /><br />Rebecca who runs the bakery said she is completely overwhelmed at the reception as it was an intimidatingly knowledgable and skilled panel of judges so it felt exposing opening yourself up to that kind of scrutiny.<br /><br />She said the Scottish baking community made it a lovely experience and it was a great experience to meet other bakers. <br /><br />The competition was organised by the Edinburgh Butter Company and took place at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh in late October, where Bridge of Allen bakery HAVN took home second place. <br /><br />Judges said that while the room was brimmed in artisan talent Maple Leaf’s croissant really stood out and it was unanimously agreed she’d won the trophy. <br /><br />We tried the famous croissant in the office earlier and can definitely vouch for its quality.<br /><br />They were enjoyed by our whole team, they looked perfect, smelled amazing. They were very sweet and buttery in taste and has a soft chewy texture.

Which famous scousers deserve a statue in Liverpool?

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The people of Liverpool are what gives the city its heart. Some of these inspirational Scousers have been permanently honoured with statues in their likeness. The Beatles and Ken Dodd already have sculptures, but who else would you like to see immortalised?

31 million pounds to be spent on making homes more energy efficient in Northumberland

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More than thirty one million pounds has been put forward to improve the energy efficiency of homes across Northumberland. The money is to be split between private properties and social housing.

New Jellycat concept space to open at Selfridges Bullring

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The Bullring in Birmingham is set to host the UK's largest Jellycat space, a new addition opening at Selfridges this Friday. Known for their whimsical designs and cult following, Jellycat toys have become a phenomenon, capturing the attention of collectors and social media influencers alike.

A Brand New Newcastle and Gateshead Monopoly Board

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After 25 years since the first Newcastle and Gateshead board game was released, Monopoly have created a brand new board with both the old and new iconic landmarks.

Sephora opens new store in Birmingham Bullring

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Sephora has officially opened its doors in the Bullring, signalling Birmingham's growing appeal for premium retail. Following successful openings across the UK, including Manchester, Sephora aims to attract beauty lovers to its immersive in-store experience and exclusive brands.

Children and Social Media

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Australia are set to ban social media for under-16s, should the UK follow suit? What are your concerns with children and social media?

Frankie Bridge talks internet safety and The Wild Robot

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Australia is planning to ban social media for all children under the age of 16. If the ban were to be passed, it would make Australia the first country in the world to impose such a rule. Their Government have said it is acting to guarantee children’s safety online. Australia’s prime minister, Anthony Albanese, said the plans were aimed to reduce the harm social media can have on children. <br />Though, critics have argued that it would be better to instead bring in appropriate safety standards on social media platforms. On the other hand, supporters of the plans say that the ban is needed in order to protect children from bullying, fake news, and harmful content.

NHS Overhaul: New league tables and tougher accountability to cut wait times and improve care.

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Health Secretary Wes Streeting has announced a stringent reform package with the new Labour government promising to reform the NHS.