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.
At Ally Pally, a darts player swatted a wasp that landed on his face mid-match, briefly halting play, then went on to win. The insect is regarded by some attendees as a venue good luck symbol. Officials restarted the game without issue and the player advanced.
Ministers plan to postpone May’s local elections in parts of England during local‑government reorganisation, extending terms for sitting councillors and affecting millions of voters. The move, billed as avoiding duplicate polls during mergers, faces opposition, with Reform alleging it shields incumbents.
The Bank cut the base rate to 3.75% and signalled inflation should fall faster, heading towards 2% next year. Lenders are preparing a spring 2026 mortgage price war, with deals near 3%. Reeves says cheaper borrowing could save first‑time buyers about £100 a month.