New York State – Page 1665

Full list of free treats you can claim on your birthday from high street chains including M&S and Greggs

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Full list of free treats you can claim on your birthday from high street chains including M&S and Greggs

ANYONE can claim a host of freebies on their birthday if they know the right places to look.

Dozens of high street chains and restaurants offer treats you can claim on your birthday.

Birthday cake with lit candles spelling "Happy Birthday". — Shoppers can bag a host of free treats on their birthdays

The main way to claim is by signing up to the outlet’s app, newsletter or reward scheme.

It’s important to make sure you follow the store’s requirements to claim the birthday treat, such as providing certain details.

Earlier this week, we revealed that around half of M&S Sparks Card holders are not getting birthday freebies because they hadn’t listed their date of birth.

We’ve rounded up all the birthday freebies on the high street and how you can claim them.

Burger King Whopper

Fast food chain Burger King will give customers a free Whopper burger if they download its app (via the App Store or Google Play) and register with its Your Burger King loyalty scheme.

You can either get a regular or plant-based whopper, which usually cost £6.29.

The voucher will appear in your ‘offers’ tab. Just show the code at the counter to get yours.

Chopstix noodle birthday box

Chopstix noodle bar is giving away a free box of food on your birthday if you sign up for its newsletter and download its app.

You can view the full list of outlets taking part in the offer at: chopstixnoodles.co.uk/free-birthday-box-participating-stores/.

Costa sweet treat

Costa Coffee gives customers who download its app and sign into a Costa Club account a free sweet treat of their choice on their birthday.

The voucher will be emailed to you and you can claim it up to seven days after your birthday.

Gail’s bakery treat

By signing up to the Gail’s Bakery app and adding your date of birth, you can choose any sweet treat from the Morning Goods and Sweets & Cakes ranges for free.

You can claim the treat any time during your birthday month, as long a you redeem the treat within 30 days of the voucher being issued.

Greggs sweet treat

Greggs customers can bag a free sweet such as a cookie or a doughnut on their birthday b downloading the Greggs App.

It’s available for Apple or Android, and you must register for the Greggs Rewards loyalty scheme for free to claim.

You’ll get a voucher to show in store and is valid for one month from the date of your birthday.

Free Frankie & Benny’s meal

Beloved family chain Frankie & Benny’s will give away a free meal on your birthday, as long as you’re joined by two other paying customers who buy main meals.

You need to register your birthday to claim it – head to its website at frankieandbennys.com/birthday-parties and fill in your details.

You can then use the voucher in any almost any restaurant – check with your local to make sure they’ll accept it.

Harvester meal

By simply signing up to the Harvester newsletter, you can claim a free adult meal alongside any other paying adult.

You will be sent a QR code via email around two weeks before your birthday.

By signing up, you’ll currently also get a 25% off food voucher to use any time.

Krispy Kreme doughnut

Krispy Kreme, the iconic doughnut shop, gives customers who join its free loyalty scheme a free doughnut in their birthday month.

You need to download the app for Apple or Android and register. You’ll then find a voucher in your app.

But, this one comes with a bonus – if you’re not already a member of the loyalty scheme, you’ll get an extra free doughnut just for signing up.

Lidl doughnut

Discount supermarket Lidl will give customers who sign up to the Lidl Plus app a free doughnut from its bakery on their birthday.

These are usually around 30-40p, so while the savings aren’t huge, it’s still a nice treat.

You’ll get the coupon in your Lidl Plus app and will have seven days to use it.

Muffin break

If you sign up to Muffin Break’s rewards card, you not only get every 6th coffee free – you also get a free birthday muffin every year.

You can register for an account for free by downloading its app.

M&S gift

M&S Sparks Card customers can bag a free gift for being part of the loyalty scheme.

You need to create a Sparks account and make sure your birthday is on your profile.

You will then receive a free reward around your birthday, which you will have a month to claim.

Example gifts include Belgian truffles, mini cupcakes or a bouquet of flowers.

Customers can scan a QR code in-store to quickly update their profile or log into the Sparks app to add their information.

Prezzo free prosecco or desserts

Those celebrating their birthday can get either a free bottle of Prosecco or two free desserts when they spend more than £25.

Alternatively, you can get a bottle of house white or red wine if Prosecco isn’t your thing.

Customers will be sent a code around two weeks before their birthday and will have 60 days to redeem the offer.

Subway cookie

By registering with the new Subway Rewards app, you can claim a free cookie worth 99p on your birthday.

You don’t need to buy anything else to claim your cookie, just show the code in your Subway app at the till.

We recently revealed how one savvy shopper saved £64 by claiming all the birthday freebies she could find, so the savings do stack up if you make the most of the offers.

Supermarket loyalty schemes - which has one?

MOST UK supermarkets have loyalty schemes so customers can build up points and save money while they shop.

Here we round up what saving programmes you’ll find at the big brands.

Iceland: Unlike other stores, you don’t collect points with the Iceland Bonus Card. Instead, you load it up with money and Iceland will give you £1 for every £20 you save.
Lidl Plus: Lidl customers don’t collect points when they shop, and are instead rewarded with personalised vouchers that gives them money off at the till.
Morrisons: The My Morrisons: Make Good Things Happen replaces the More Card and rewards customers with personalised money off vouchers via the app.
Sainsbury’s: While Sainsbury’s doesn’t have a personal scheme, it does own the Nectar card which can also be used in Argos, eBay and other shops. You need 200 Nectar points to save up £1 to spend on your card. You need to spend at least £1 to get one Nectar point.
Tesco: Tesco Clubcard has over 17million members in the UK alone. You use it each time you shop and build up points that can be turned into vouchers – 150 points gets you a £1.50 voucher. Here you need to spend £1 in Tesco to get one point.
Waitrose: myWaitrose also doesn’t allow you to collect points but instead you’ll get access to free hot drinks, and discounts off certain brands in store.

Myleene Klass turns heads as she wears see-through lace bodysuit for her morning radio show

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Myleene Klass turns heads as she wears see-through lace bodysuit for her morning radio show

PRESENTER Myleene Klass has dressed to impress in a black lace show-stopping outfit.

Singer Myleene rocked the jaw-dropping ensemble as she made her way through London over the weekend to host her radio show.

Myleene Klass wearing a black bodysuit, hoodie, and lace tights.

The presenter turned heads in a unique ensemble[/caption]

Myleene Klass wearing a black bodysuit and cropped hoodie.

Myleene sashayed down the road in the statement outfit[/caption]

The stunning star was head-to-toe in black, with black lace legs and a matching lace bodysuit.

The presenter, 46, accessorised the unique look with a black cropped designer hoodie and black trainers.

She added to the fashion statement with a Chanel necklace, a chunky gold watch and black sunglasses.

The former singer completed her look with natural make-up, with her long glossy hair down in loose waves.

It comes just weeks after Myleene revealed what really gets her in the mood during an appearance on Loose Women.

Referencing Brooke Shields‘ autobiography, in which she details her thoughts on sex as a 59-year-old woman, Jane Moore put the same question to her fellow panelists.

Myleene, who shares five-year-old daughter Ava with her husband Graham Quinn, revealed what gets her turned on now she’s a busy mum.

The model explained that when it comes to getting in the mood for women, it’s a’ slow burn’.

“I think all these ideas of tequila and setting the mood and music, it’s not about those five minutes, it’s about the whole day,” she said.

“It’s about the cup of tea, it’s about kindness, put a shelf up and things are going to look way more promising for the evening.”

Myleene went on to say that being proactive about tasks in the home and looking after your partner and family is her idea of “foreplay.”

“It’s not just what goes on in the bedroom, it’s actually what goes on in your relationship,” she continued.

And while she acknowledged that society doesn’t find this idea as “enticing,” she said that putting time and effort into a relationship is the biggest turn on.

“It’s not all about lace and lotion, it’s about conversations, a cup of tea, and some DIY,” she said as she cringed at all the money she had previously spent on lingerie.

The all-black racy number barely protected her from the rain[/caption]

Myleene Klass on the Loose Women TV show.

Myleene recently spoke about her love life on Loose Women[/caption]

Myleene Klass at the Royal Film Performance.

The stunning former singer is a busy mum of two[/caption]

Myleene Klass at The Fashion Awards 2024.

Myleene shares daughter Ava with her husband Graham[/caption]

Liverpool 2 Wolves 1: Reds extend lead over Arsenal to 7 points after relegation-battling visitors set up nervy finale

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Liverpool 2 Wolves 1: Reds extend lead over Arsenal to 7 points after relegation-battling visitors set up nervy finale

LUIS DIAZ helped Liverpool move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

The Colombian forward bundled in the Reds’ opener against Wolves with his midriff with a quarter of an hour gone.

Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz celebrating a goal.

Luis Diaz and Mo Salah were both on target for Liverpool against Wolves[/caption]

Mo Salah made it two from the penalty eight minutes before half-time.

And it looked as though Diogo Jota had secured the golden chance to wrap up the points when he went down under a sliding tackle in the Wolves area.

Referee Simon Hooper pointed to the spot but reversed his decision after the VAR monitor replays showed Jota had simply thrown himself to the floor.

Then the nerves inside Anfield increased when Matheus Cunha fired a fine strike into the bottom corner to pull the relegation-threatened side back into the game.

But despite a wave of attacks, the Reds held on and stumbled over the line for a crucial return to winning ways.

THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..

The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball.

Liverpool vs Wolves match stats infographic.

https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1891129801735340462 https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1891135518223577144 https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1891147844561588585

Luis Diaz scoring a goal during a soccer match.

Diaz bundled in off his midriff[/caption]

Soccer players and a referee during a game.

Wolves wanted a second yellow card for Ibrahima Konate in the first half[/caption]

Luis Diaz of Liverpool being fouled by Wolverhampton's goalkeeper.

Diaz won the penalty when Jose Sa clipped his ankle[/caption]

Salah put his penalty down the middle[/caption]

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool kicking a soccer ball during a game.

Salah found the net again but it was ruled out for offside[/caption]

Diogo Jota escaped a yellow card despite his blatant dive looking for a penalty[/caption]

Matheus Cunha scoring a goal during a soccer match.

Matheus Cunha got Wolves back into it with a fine strike[/caption]

Arne Slot, Liverpool manager, shaking hands with a match official.

Arne Slot was all smiles at the end as the Reds restored their seven-point advantage[/caption]

Bargain hunters are racing to Asda for mega 90% off sale – a winter buy is now £2 & will keep you warm without heating

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Bargain hunters are racing to Asda for mega 90% off sale – a winter buy is now £2 & will keep you warm without heating

SHOPPERS are racing to get to Asda, eager to check out the mega 90% off sale.

Not only are there mattress and sheet protectors that have been slashed, but there’s even a handy winter essential that will keep you warm without heating.

Woman relaxing on a sofa with a warm blanket, drinking from a mug.

Bargain hunters are sprinting to Asda, desperate to nab a £2 buy that will keep you warm without heating[/caption]

Two boxes of Silentnight Comfort Control electric blankets.

This Silentnight electric blanket has been reduced down from £16[/caption]

Reduced price electric blanket and vacuum cleaner filter kits.

It’ll cost you just 1p an hour[/caption]

It has three heat settings and overheat protection[/caption]

So if you’re reluctant to turn on your central heating as a result of rising costs, then fear not, you’ve come to the right place.

And don’t worry if the cost of living crisis has meant that you’re on a tight budget, as this bargain buy is super cheap.

Not only is the brilliant gadget incredibly affordable, but it’s perfect for snuggly nights in bed too.

Many bargain hunters were left open-mouthed by the impressive deals in Asda – and one shopper, Jade Blyth, took to social media to alert others to the discounts.

Posting on Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK, a private Facebook group with 2.6 million members, Jade shared snaps of her finds and beamed: “All these winter bits are 90% off in Asda!!

“Lots left in Fareham Asda in the bedding section.”

Not only did Jade get her hands on two teddy fleece pillows for just 70p, but she also nabbed a single mattress protector for only £1.

As well as this, she got a double mattress protector for £1.20 and a king mattress protector for just £1.40.

Not only this, but numerous other shoppers spotted the Silentnight Comfort Control Electric Blankets, which have now been slashed down to just £2.20.

One shopper named Dawn Simpson nabbed two of the blankets and also flocked to Facebook to show off her haul.

Alongside her post, she penned: “REDUCED to £2.20 each at my local Asda in Dewsbury today.”

As well as this, another shopper named Chelsea Thombs flocked to Facebook to show off the cheap winter gadget.

5 ways to keep your house warm in winter

Property expert Joshua Houston shared his tips.

1. Curtains

“Windows are a common place for the outside cold to get into your home, this is because of small gaps that can let in air so always close your curtains as soon as it gets dark,” he said.

This simple method gives you an extra layer of warmth as it can provide a kind of “insulation” between your window and curtain.

2. Rugs

“Your floor is another area of your home where heat can be lost and can make your home feel chilly,” he continued. “You might notice on cold days, that your floor is not nice to walk on due to it freezing your feet.

“Add rugs to areas that don’t already have a carpet, this provides a layer of insulation between your bare floor and the room above.”

3. Check your insulation

Check your pipes, loft space, crawlspaces and underneath floorboards.

“Loose-fill insulation is very good for this, and is a more affordable type of insulation, with a big bag being able to be picked up for around £30,” Joshua explained.

4. Keep your internal doors closed

“Household members often gather in one room in the evening, and this is usually either the kitchen or living room,” Joshua said.

“This means you only have to heat a small area of your home, and closing the doors keeps the heat in and the cold out.”

5. Block drafts

Don’t forget to check cat flaps, chimneys and letterboxes, as they can let in cold air if they aren’t secure.

Alongside the cheap buy, which has been reduced from £16 to just £2.20, Chelsea beamed: “These were in the reduced section however there was more on the bedding aisle!!”

The electric blankets, which have been slashed by £13.80, are suitable for single beds and will ensure you stay warm and cosy during colder nights.

They are made from snuggly fleece material and are super soft to touch.

But they are also durable, providing added comfort to your mattress.

It’s a godsend when you’re old, nice and cosy and keeping warm in bed
Facebook user

They have three heat settings so that you can adjust to a temperature that is just right for you.

And if that wasn’t enough, these heated blankets also feature overheat protection for total peace of mind.

The chain praised the electric blanket as ‘an energy efficient and affordable way to stay warm for less’.

According to Asda, pre-heating your bed for one hour on a low heat setting costs as little as 1p, so you can afford to cosy up night after night.

Bargain hunters beam

Facebook users were left beaming with the affordable sale find and many eagerly flocked to the comments to express this.

Cheap gadgets to help you stay warm

MARTIN Lewis' MoneySavingExpert shared six gadgets that can help you keep the heating off but stay warm.

Heating “the human not the home” means you warm yourself instead of turning on the heating and heating the whole house.

This can save money on your heating bill and means you don’t have to sit in the cold.

USB gloves – initial cost £10, cost to run less than 1p an hour
Heated insoles – initial cost £10, cost to run less than 1p an hour
USB hand warmers – initial cost £15, cost to run less than 1p an hour
Electric gilet – initial cost £50 (including battery pack), cost to run less than 1p an hour
Microwaveable wheat bag – initial cost £4, cost to run less than 1p per hours
Reusable hand warmers – initial cost £5 for a pair, cost to run less than 1p per hour

One person said: “Wow, that’s good!!”

Another added: “That’s a great deal.”

A third commented: “Need to have a look.”

Wondered why I just saw a woman with about 10 of these at the till
Facebook user

At the same time, one bargain hunter claimed: “We got four yesterday.”

Meanwhile, another chimed in: “Saw a man at my local with two trolleys full of these. Now I know why.”

As well as this, another Asda shopper shared: “Wondered why I just saw a woman with about 10 of these at the till.”

Not only are shoppers racing to get one of these heated blankets before they sell out, but one happy shopper explained: “Got mine before Christmas.

“It’s a godsend when you’re old, nice and cosy and keeping warm in bed.”

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club

Exterior of an Asda supermarket with customers wearing masks.

But you’ll need to get down to your Asda fast before this brilliant bargain sells out[/caption]

Gogglebox stars Dave and Shirley reveal show they REFUSE to watch saying there’s ‘no need for it’

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Gogglebox stars Dave and Shirley reveal show they REFUSE to watch saying there’s ‘no need for it’

GOGGLEBOX legends Dave and Shirley have revealed that there is one show they refuse to watch, saying there’s ‘no need for it.’

The pair are one of the most popular couples on the Bafta award-winning TV show.

Dave and Shirley Griffiths at the TV Choice Awards.

Gogglebox legends Dave and Shirley have revealed that there is one show they refuse to watch, saying there’s ‘no need for it’[/caption]

Dave and Shirley sitting on a couch in their living room.

The show favourites have been on the show since 2015[/caption]

Based in Caerphilly, Wales, the TV stars, both in their 60s, joined the Channel 4 show in 2015.

Known for their dry wit and a similar sarcastic sense of humour, the couple soon became a fan favourite.

And, as is the premise of Gogglebox, they sit down to watch various TV shows and provide commentary on them.

But asked at this year’s TV Choice Awards whether there’s a show they’ll refuse to watch, Shirley was quick to answer, saying: “Naked Attraction.”

Shirley went on: “I watch it, but when you think of it, the first time you see someone is with no clothes on. There’s no need.”

Naked Attraction, hosted by Anna Richardson, has been shocking audiences since 2016 with its risqué concept.

Contestants in the lineup reportedly have to remain nude for the majority of the 12-hour filming process

Dave then joked that Shirley will be there hiding her eyes from the screen, while he’s doing the opposite.

While chatting to The Sun at the awards, Dave and Shirley also praised the younger stars of Gogglebox, for their success in the showbiz industry.

They said: “It’s really lovely to see them all doing well. We’ve just chatted to Joe Baggs down there who’s interviewing for Lorraine.”

Reality TV stars Dave and Shirley have been leaving fans in stitches for years since they made their show debut in 2015 but have never been joined by any of their other family members like some of their co-stars.

Apart from their pet pooch, Dave and Shirley have opted to keep their relatives away from the Channel 4 spotlight.

It led their almost 200,000 Instagram followers to go into a frenzy when they spotted a rare photo of their son, Simon.

Dave and Shirley left their fans hot under the collar thanks to the cheeky shirtless snap last year, with many quick to jump on how ‘hot’ their son was.

Heavily tattooed Simon posed for the camera as he donned nothing other than a pair of yellow shorts and a baseball cap as he flashed the flesh in the picture.

Commenting on his impressive body, Dave appeared to jokingly caption the snap: “Just like his farther ripped # gogglebox #dubai.”

Taking their chance, many of their fans were left pondering if handsome Simon was single and looking to date.

One fan said: “Is he single lol.”

Another excitedly shared: “Wow! ! ! He’s proper fit!”

“He’s hot,” decalred a third as a fourth added a slew of love-heart-eyed emoji’s before quipping: “Oh hello.”

Shirley hides when she has to watch Naked Attraction[/caption]

Photo of Dave and Shirley from Gogglebox by a pool.

Dave and Shirley have opted to keep their relatives away from the Channel 4 spotlight[/caption]

Celebrity Gogglebox 2024: The lineup

These are the celebrity pairings that are taking part in the special for Stand Up To Cancer.

Josh Widdicombe and Stephen Merchant
David Baddiel and Frank Skinner
Dame Kristin Scott Thomas and Saskia Reeves
Miriam Margolyes and Lesley Joseph
Jordan Pickford and Tony Bellew

Inside Stacey Solomon’s huge family – including six ‘secret’ siblings as she plans trip to visit brother in Switzerland

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Inside Stacey Solomon’s huge family – including six ‘secret’ siblings as she plans trip to visit brother in Switzerland

STACEY Solomon is set to visit her brother on a stunning ski trip holiday – yet The X Factor alum has a handful of “secret” siblings that often go under the radar.

While the mum of five, 35, often showcases elder sister Jemma, dubbed The Label Lady, on her social media – she has a wider family who prefer a quiet life.

Stacey Solomon in a black, sparkly, strapless gown with a thigh-high slit, standing in a field of flowers.

Stacey Solomon has revealed her ‘secret’ siblings after opening up on her latest family holiday[/caption]

Three women sitting on a couch together.

Stacey has two elder sisters Jemma, left, and Samantha, centre[/caption]

Her half-brother Josh is a music producer and has released his own music[/caption]

These include brothers Matthew, who created a tattoo for the star but is rarely seen on social media, and half-brother Josh, 18.

In a recent Instagram video, Stacey filmed in her Barbie pink laundry room as she tackled her household chores.

She told her followers: “I’m starting to pack up our cases to see my brother in Switzerland.

“And while we are there we are going to ski, because obviously there is snow there.

“And this is the ski suit my husband has chosen to take with him – this,” before pointing out a brightly-coloured ski suit lying on the floor.

As well as her brothers, she has eldest sister Samantha Stone, who works as a PT.

She previously stunned fans as she shared a snap of the pair working out together.

It came ahead of middle sister Jemma’s telly debut on ITV daytime series, This Morning.

The Sort Your Life Out host also has another step-brother that opts to keep their life private.

Speaking to her Instagram followers previously – after she told how she was waiting for Samantha at Stansted Airport – she said: “Loads of you have been asking ‘oh my God, I didn’t realise you had another sister, where have you been hiding her?’

“She is actually my step sister but I never call her that. We grew up together.

“Altogether there’s seven of us – one step sister, two step brothers, my brother and sister, and then I have a half-brother.

“I would never call them my steps – that feels weird.

“We grew up brothers and sisters.

Stacey Solomon's career so far

Stacey Solomon has been a familiar face on viewers' screens for over a decade. Let's take a look back at her career.

The X Factor (2009): Stacey competed in series six of long-running ITV singing competition The X Factor. During her time in the show, she was mentored by Danni Minogue in the ‘Girls’ category. The star finished in third place, behind Joe McElderry and Olly Murs.

I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here (2010); In late 2010, Stacey headed to the infamous I’m A Celeb Aussie jungle. After 21 days, she triumphed to win the tenth series. It was through I’m A Celeb that she met future husband Joe Swash – who’d won two years earlier and was hosting the ITV2 spinoff.

Celebrity Juice (2011―2013, 2016―2019): The star appeared as a panellist on 21 episodes of the comedy panel game show hosted by Keith Lemon. Stacey was a regular in the 21st series, broadcast in 2019.

Loose Women (2016 – present): Stacey has been a permanent panel member of the daytime show since 2016. She previously made guest appearances in 2011 and 2012.

Sort Your Life Out (2022 -present): This BBC show sees Stacey, with the help of an expert team, transform participants’ living spaces after removing clutter.

“You may have seen her before on my story – but years ago.”

STRONG BOND

Stacey’s half brother Josh appears eager to follow in Stacey’s musical footsteps, releasing tracks on Spotify.

He has also has a TikTok page where he shares the secrets behind his songwriting process.

The pair previously appeared together on Instagram where they poked fun of their pimples.

She wrote: “I love my little brother so much that I appear to be experiencing sympathy puberty. Or at least that’s what we’ve called it.

“Had the best laugh with my little bro tonight talking about all things hormone induced and I’m grateful to my spots for making that happen. Love you, Josh!”

Stacey’s sister Jemma frequently features on her social media pages – and has also starred on This Morning[/caption]

Five women in swimsuits on a boat. — Stacey was seen with sister Samantha, left, and Jemma, right, on her Hen Do

Stacey, married to actor Joe Swash, is now a mum of five[/caption]

Blow for shoppers as ANOTHER grocery staple soars in price by record 43% with farmers ‘seeking more viable options’

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Blow for shoppers as ANOTHER grocery staple soars in price by record 43% with farmers ‘seeking more viable options’

THE cost of a grocery staple has soared to record levels meaning shoppers face choosing between a price hike or going without.

As British farmers look for ways to increase their profit margins and as meat imports are on the rise, prices are expected to inflate further.

Produce and canned goods on shelves in a grocery store.

Following the Budget tax raid shoppers have faced a huge blow as fruit and veg prices continue on up[/caption]

Record-high farmgate prices have already led to a jump in value and it seems beef has been set to follow suit.

Recent analysis of the fresh meat lines sold at the UK’s top 10 supermarkets shows 43 per cent of them have risen in price.

The report for Grocer magazine by analysts at Associa has compared the protein’s value for money since the start of the year.

Prices paid to farmers are at a record high of 630p per kilo, recorded on February 8th, an increase of 11.4 per cent since the beginning of January and 24.7 per cent higher than a year ago.

While some increases can be absorbed, it has meant that so far this year, supermarket prices of mince are up by an average of 5.4 per cent but for beef roasting joints specifically a rise of 17 per cent has been seen.

The biggest hike was a 40 per cent increase for an ‘XXL’ sized 30-day ‘matured beef roasting joint’ in Lidl while Ocado’s Aberdeen Angus Rump steak is 27 per cent more than it’s value on January 1.

Sirloin steaks are, on average, up 8 per cent so far in 2025.

Domestic cattle supply this year is forecast to be down by five per cent to 885,000 tonnes compared to last year.

Although sales of beef have risen, farmers have seen profits squeezed due to higher production and other costs, leading them to reduce herds in favour of alternative forms of income.

Hannah Clarke, lead analyst for the industry body, AHDB, forecast a 12 per cent increase in imported beef this year compared to 2024.

Clarke said: “The wide price differential between British and Irish cattle prices that opened up during the year was likely a key driver of increased trade, as well as robust domestic UK demand for beef.”

While beef sales in supermarkets were up 8.5 per cent in value and 2.1 per cent in volume, this year could see a downturn if higher prices force shoppers to choose alternatives.

Clarke added: “The price evolution of beef at retail will be a key watchpoint for the price-conscious consumer.”

That’s not the only item on shoppers’ weekly lists that have been victim to soaring prices.

Following the Budget tax raid shoppers have faced a huge blow as fruit and veg prices continue on up.

Two supermarkets, Sainsbury’s and Tesco, have been forced to issue statements acknowledging the predicted hike.

At her first Budget in October, Rachel Reeves introduced tax rises amounting to £40billion – including raising the rate of employer National Insurance contributions.

This, alongside increasing minimum wage, could raise the cost of growing fruit and vegetables by 10 to 12 per cent, the British Growers Association (BGA) has warned.

Suppliers will be unlikely to be able to absorb the increase themselves, due to the new National Insurance changes.

And the same is true of supermarkets – who will likely be forced pass on at least some of the burden to their customers, it is believed.

Sainsbury’s, which previously warned that the Budget would cost them an extra £140million, has admitted it is feeling the pinch.

CEO Simon Roberts said that the chain would need to work with its suppliers to minimise the impact on customers.

He told The Grocer: “Suppliers have got costs coming at them as well, of course, given all of the changes in National Insurance coming.

“We’ll be working really closely to make sure that between us, we find the best answers we can and we continue to give customers the best value that we possibly can.”

How to save on your supermarket shop

THERE are plenty of ways to save on your grocery shop.

You can look out for yellow or red stickers on products, which show when they’ve been reduced.

If the food is fresh, you’ll have to eat it quickly or freeze it for another time.

Making a list should also save you money, as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket.

Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too.

This means ditching “finest” or “luxury” products and instead going for “own” or value” type of lines.

Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes where you can get cheap prices if they’re misshapen or imperfect.

For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme, offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50.

If you’re on a low income and a parent, you may be able to get up to £442 a year in Healthy Start vouchers to use at the supermarket too.

Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support Fund.

The report for Grocer magazine by analysts at Associa has compared the protein’s value for money since the start of the year[/caption]

New £50million water attraction with surf lagoon, wave machine & its own ‘urban beach’ is coming to UK’s capital

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on New £50million water attraction with surf lagoon, wave machine & its own ‘urban beach’ is coming to UK’s capital

LONDON is one step closer to becoming the first capital city in the world to feature a surf park.

The £50million project would transform around 100 acres of land in Lee Valley Regional Park.

The London surf park will be powered by Endless Surf flagship ES48 model[/caption]

People bodysurfing at an inland surfing lake.

It is thought the new project will look similar to its sister site Wave Bristol (pictured)[/caption]

Aerial view of The Wave, England's only inland surfing destination, near Bristol.

The Wave brought a ‘slice of the ocean’ to Bristol[/caption]

And now The Wave, which brought a “slice of the ocean” to Bristol, has appointed Endless Surf as its technology partner.

It will be The Wave’s second destination and builds on the success of its surf park in Bristol.

The project, which has been in development for a number of years, will make London the first capital city in the world to feature a surf park.

The project will progress using Endless Surf’s technology and construction solutions, which will help to overcome challenging site conditions.

Public consultation on the revised plans for the site at Lee Valley Leisure Complex in Edmonton, in the London Borough of Enfield, is due to take place in March.

The team aims to submit a planning application in the spring.

Hazel Geary, CEO of The Wave, said: “London has long been in our sights, as part of our mission to share the health benefits of water and waves with people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

“We have been working closely with Lee Valley Regional Park Authority to progress plans for this incredible, but underused, land in the London Borough of Enfield.

“London is one of the world’s most dynamic and influential cities – and with its diverse population, strong sports culture, and high volume of visitors, it is the perfect location for an inland surfing experience.”

Other new water attractions

There are plenty of other water attractions opening in the UK, including Emerge Surf – a new £50million surfing park near Coleshill in North Warwickshire.

The main attraction will be a 5.4 acre surf lagoon WaveGarden creating 1,000 waves an hour up to two metres tall along with lessons and rentals.

An urban beach would also be created, which will be the largest in Europe.

There will also be an outdoor heated pool as well as a skateboarding track and outdoor playground.

Restaurants, a coffee shop, retail stores and a co-working space would also be on-site.

A similar £55million attraction will open near Edinburgh this year with a beachfront and surf lagoon.

Also the £50million The Seahive in Deal near Kent will have a wave pool, splash area and hotel.

The Seahive founder Jim Storey said he created the project due to Kent‘s lack of surf despite it’s long coastline.

He said: “Kent is not renowned for its surfing at all, in fact, a lot of people who love surfing drive six hours to Cornwall or hop on a flight somewhere abroad.”

First announced back in 2019, the £250milion waterpark will have huge swimming pools, 35 slides and an indoor beach.

Steam rooms and saunas, a swim up bar and “living” waterslides will also be included when it opens in 2025.

Five new water attractions opening in the UK

Therme Manchester will have 25 swimming pools, 25 water slides and an indoor beach.
Modern Surf Manchester will be a surfing lagoon offering lessons to both beginners and experts.
Chessington World of Adventures Waterpark is set to have wave, infinity and spa pools as well as waterslides and cabanas.
The Cove Resort, Southport is likely to have a water lagoon and a thermal spa with steam rooms and saunas.
The Seahive, Deal plans to be the “surfing wellness resort” in the UK.

BBC in Eurovision chaos over Malta’s entry with X-rated lyrics that ‘can never be played’

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on BBC in Eurovision chaos over Malta’s entry with X-rated lyrics that ‘can never be played’

THE BBC has been plunged into Eurovision chaos by Malta’s entry and it’s very x-rated lyrics.

Singer Miriana Conte will represent the island with her very catchy pop song Kant which means singing in Maltese.

Winner of the Malta Eurovision Song Contest holding an award.

Miriana Conte’s Kant is causing headaches for the BBC[/caption]

Woman in white fur coat and leopard print hat.

The singer will revamp her song but the rude chorus will stay the same[/caption]

The chorus sees her singing about ‘serving kant’.

However it is the pronunciation of the lyric to rhyme with hunt that is causing worries at the BBC.

A source said: “It’s not a great situation – it’s causing a few headaches.

“On the face of it there’s nothing wrong with the song but the way it’s sung could cause offence and there’s bound to be complaints.

“If it wins it becomes an even bigger issue – especially if it charts. Eurovision winners traditionally do a press tour and perform their tracks all over but it’s a bit much for breakfast telly.”

Radio 2 morning presenter Scott Mills, who commentates Eurovision for BBC Radio and the semi-finals on the BBC, has admitted the song can never be played.

“We can’t talk about Malta’s one, at all,” he said on his radio show this week.

“We definitely can’t play a clip of it… ever, on the BBC.”

Malta are set to compete in the second Semi-Final which will be on iPlayer and BBC One on 15 May.

Miriana also revealed that Eurovision bosses have accepted the lyrics so they will remain but the song will be revamped.

“The EBU accepted that the song remains the same, so it shouldn’t be a problem,” she told LovinMalta.

“The song will obviously be revamped, but it won’t change, it’ll stay the same.”

She also addressed the BBC ban, adding: “I saw the article on social media about the BBC thing, but I don’t have much to say.

Everything you need to know about Eurovision

Here's your complete guide to all things Eurovision:

Who was Marcel Bezençon, when did he come up with the Eurovision Song Contest and what’s the EBU?
How to host a Eurovision party – from drinking games to decorations and costumes
How many times has the UK received ‘nil points’ at Eurovision and been bottom of the leaderboard?
Why is Australia in Eurovision and what would happen if they won?
How much is Graham Norton paid and what’s his net worth?
Eurovision winners: where are they now? From working in Tesco to global stardom
When has Eurovision not been hosted by the winning country?
How do I vote in Eurovision and when will results be revealed?

“I do however understand their position as a radio station and as a country.”

The BBC has been approached for comment.

Boy, 5, killed after hyperbaric chamber explodes during oxygen therapy

4 weeks ago New York State Comments Off on Boy, 5, killed after hyperbaric chamber explodes during oxygen therapy

'Annie was trying to help her child as any parent would — as good parents do.'