The PM vows 2026 will bring tangible improvements after a tough year, pledging action on energy bills, workers’ rights and public services, with a focus on cutting child poverty. He says the government will restore hope and deliver change for ordinary households.
Anthony Joshua is recovering in hospital after a car crash in Nigeria in which two close friends died. His mother is at his bedside as family and fellow fighters, including Tyson Fury, offer support.
Anthony Joshua was injured in a road collision while on holiday in Nigeria. Two close friends died. He was rescued from the vehicle and taken to hospital, where he’s stable. Authorities are examining how the SUV struck a parked truck. Tributes have been paid to the victims.
Brigitte Bardot has died aged 91. The French screen icon rose to fame in the 1950s with And God Created Woman, became a global symbol of style, and later devoted herself to animal welfare. Tributes note her lasting influence on film and popular culture.
TUC chief Paul Nowak urges Starmer to make the cost‑of‑living crisis the top priority, warning disillusioned voters could turn to Reform UK and Nigel Farage if living standards don’t improve before local elections. A poll suggests most voters see this as Britain’s biggest issue.
King Charles’s Christmas message struck an optimistic note, praising shared values and community heroes of all backgrounds. He saluted service personnel and volunteers, urged kindness, unity and respect for life, and said common purpose can make the future more hopeful.
Fresh emails reportedly show an account signed “A” at Balmoral asking an associate to find “inappropriate” companions, intensifying scrutiny on a senior royal’s past associations and prompting renewed questions over judgement and accountability.
The King has been judged the year’s hardest‑working royal, clocking 552 engagements while receiving cancer treatment. More than 300 were in person, with regional visits across the UK. He topped tables of royal duties, outpacing other senior royals.
Thomas Skinner’s claim that Strictly was fixed faces a setback after a fan poll reportedly gave him just 1.4% support, suggesting he was least popular. He had threatened legal action after his exit; the BBC rejects any suggestion of a stitch‑up.
Prince William has become patron of the SAS Regimental Association, backing welfare support for serving personnel, veterans and families. The role aims to honour the unit’s achievements and boost care and funding for those connected to it.