Christmas Past & Present: Getting Ready for the Festive Season
From Victorian goose clubs and Stir-Up Sunday puddings to Black Friday and luxury Advent calendars, here's how British families have got ready for Christmas across the generations.
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US Flight Ground Stop: What Went Wrong and How UK Travellers Were Affected
A communications failure in America's air traffic control system brought flights to a standstill across the US. We explain what went wrong, how the disruption spread to UK airports and what passengers need to know.
Sheldon Country Park Play Area Plans Open for Public Comment
Birmingham City Council is asking residents for their views on proposed improvements to Sheldon Country Park. Plans include new toddler and inclusive play equipment, a gazebo, better access and updated park signage. Have your say before the consultation closes on 22 November 2026.
When the Digital World Stops Working: Are We Too Dependent on Technology?
Microsoft's worldwide outage and cyber attacks on refrigeration systems show how much daily life depends on technology. Here are some simple ways to stay prepared when services go down.
Microsoft Outage Resolved: Outlook and Teams Services Restored Worldwide
Microsoft has restored Outlook, Teams and Microsoft 365 after a worldwide outage. Find out what caused the disruption and what users should check.
Overcharged at the Pump? How to Report Fuel Price Problems in the UK
Found a different price at the pump, spotted an inaccurate fuel listing or suspect a faulty petrol dispenser? Here is how UK motorists can report fuel-price problems and which authority deals with each issue.
DWP Winter Fuel Payment eligibility 2026/27: who gets £100, £200 or £300
DWP is paying Winter Fuel Payments of £100 to £300 from mid-November to people born on or before 27 June 1960. Most are automatic, and anyone who needs to claim has until 31 March 2027.
The BBC’s 'Black Sky' Plan Explained: What It Is and What It Means for Sheldon
The BBC has revealed how it plans to keep broadcasting during an extreme national emergency. Here's what its Black Sky plan involves, why traditional FM radio still matters and what households in Sheldon, Birmingham and across the UK can learn from the government's Be Ready campaign.
Birmingham Airport Master Plan 2041: Have Your Say by 4 Dec
Birmingham Airport's draft Master Plan to 2041 plans for 30m passengers a year. Feedback closes 4 December 2026: events, noise, parking and how to respond.
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market is open – dates, times and getting there from Sheldon
Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market has returned for its 26th year, bringing German food, festive music and Christmas shopping to the city centre. Find out the opening dates, times, Remembrance Sunday arrangements and how to get there from Sheldon and the wider B26 area.
Bonfire Night: setting off fireworks in the street could land you a criminal record, police warn
West Midlands Police is urging people to go to an organised display rather than set off fireworks at home, warning that using them in streets or parks can mean an unlimited fine or a criminal record.
When Smart Devices Are Weaponised: The Real-World Harm Cyber Attacks Can Cause
Hackers raised freezer temperatures to 50°C across supermarkets in seven European countries. The equipment used is also in Tesco and Sainsbury's — and over 800 UK refrigeration controllers are currently reachable from the open internet.