A poll finds 1.8m people expect to spend Christmas Day alone. Ministers urge the public to check in on neighbours and friends, and are considering measures to tackle loneliness. Charities call for visits, phone calls and community events to support isolated people.
Scientists who delivered the first effective COVID treatment are turning to a severe H3N2 flu strain that’s straining the NHS. Led by Prof Sir Peter Horby and the Recovery trial, they aim to find viable therapies, noting there are currently fewer treatment options for flu than for COVID.
BBC lawyers are preparing a robust defence to Donald Trump’s $10bn claim, expected to seek his testimony about his conduct around the Capitol unrest and a related speech. The approach could put him under oath in US proceedings, shifting focus from the broadcaster to his actions.
Paul Doyle, 51, is to be jailed for driving into crowds at a Liverpool parade, injuring bystanders. A 12-year-old describes the fear of being hit as celebrations turned to chaos. The case underscores event safety concerns and the consequences of reckless driving.
Two attackers targeted a Jewish beach festival at Bondi, leaving at least 15 dead and over 40 injured. A local shopkeeper intervened, disarming one attacker and helping protect others. Officials say one suspect died at the scene and another was detained. An investigation is under way.
The King announced his cancer treatment is being scaled back after encouraging results. In a TV message he thanked medical teams, described the progress as a personal blessing, and urged the public to attend screenings, stressing early detection and offering hope to others.
FIFA faces criticism after revealing World Cup final tickets will start at £3,119. Supporter groups say the pricing shuts out ordinary fans and undermines inclusivity, while organisers cite demand and logistics. Critics call for transparency and fairer pricing before the tournament.
Labour pledges £3.5bn to tackle homelessness, aiming to halve rough sleeping and stop families being stuck in B&Bs. Housing minister Steve Reed says the plan will make homelessness rare and brief. A shelter estimates 382,600 people are without a secure home this Christmas.
Auditors say £10.9bn from pandemic support was lost to fraud and error, most unlikely to be recovered. Rapidly designed schemes with limited checks are blamed. Ministers are pursuing select cases, including funds linked to a PPE contractor associated with Michelle Mone, but prospects remain slim.
Families affected by the Southport incident say a shared bond has helped them endure grief. In a BBC piece they shared cherished photos and spoke of finding strength together, honouring their loved ones while slowly rebuilding their lives.