Facing fierce competition from Amazon and social media, UK department stores are undergoing major revamps to reclaim their share of the lucrative beauty and personal care market. Discover how they're fighting back.
Fresh weather maps reveal a 600-mile wall of snow is set to barrel into the UK from the east after Christmas, threatening a frosty start to 2026. Discover the full list of affected counties.
Not celebrating Christmas? Discover unique activities, open venues, and ideas for a memorable December 25th in the UK. Explore quiet streets, start new traditions, and find open restaurants.
Harrods faces backlash for selling toys made from real mink and rabbit fur. Animal welfare groups and an MP demand a ban on the cruel trade. Read the full story.
New figures reveal a record 810 shoplifting offences go unsolved daily in the UK. With cases soaring, staff face abuse and violence. The Lib Dems demand action.
Nigel Farage's Reform UK sees its poll lead shrink amid scandals and scrutiny. Analysis suggests the party's surge may be deflating, drawing parallels with past political shooting stars. Read the full story.
The Ursid meteor shower peaks on 22 December, offering a final celestial show of 2025. Find out the best time and tips for spotting up to 10 meteors per hour in UK skies.
A landmark UK study finds 79% of 18-24 year olds use AI companions, with 9% engaging in intimate interactions. Experts warn of urgent need for regulation to protect vulnerable users.
A UK veterinary nurse warns pet owners to keep dangerous Christmas foods like chocolate, mince pies and cooked bones away from animals. Know the risks and act fast if ingested.
Following attacks in Sydney and Manchester, Britain's Jewish community faces heightened fear and security. Many in Golders Green now question their future in the UK as antisemitism hits record levels.
The TGI Fridays restaurant chain in the UK is on the brink of administration, putting 49 high street branches at risk. Get the latest updates on this breaking business story.
Over 80,000 people require hospital treatment for festive accidents annually. Discover the seven key dangers, from burns to food poisoning, and how to stay safe this Christmas.
Evesham's Riverside Shopping Centre, once a vibrant hub, is now a leaking, near-empty shell just days before Christmas. Locals blame absentee landlords and soaring rents for its decline.
A 760-mile snowstorm is forecast to blast the UK from Cornwall to Scotland on January 3, bringing -9C lows and up to four inches of snow. Get the latest weather warnings and maps.
UK motorists are urged to dramatically increase stopping distances as a New Year snow blizzard approaches. Experts warn of tenfold longer stops to prevent accidents.
Pet experts issue urgent advice for UK dog owners during the freezing cold snap, revealing the dangerous temperature thresholds and signs of hypothermia to watch for.
A festive tradition from childhood persists for many British adults, with over half giving stockings to partners. Discover why this 'kidult' ritual shows no sign of stopping.
UK retailers brace for the busiest Sunday before Christmas, with £3.4bn expected in last-minute spending. Discover why nostalgic gifts and supermarket deals are driving the festive rush.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces backlash as new business rates and NI hikes cripple pubs like Pudsey's Marsh Inn. Experts warn of 2,000 closures. Is Labour's economic stewardship failing? Read the full analysis.
Exclusive polling shows Labour's support collapsing, with the party now trailing Reform, Conservatives, and Greens. Discover the policies driving voters away and the battle for supremacy on the Right.
Exclusive Deltapoll puts Reform UK ahead at 30%, with Labour on 20% and Tories on 19%. PM Keir Starmer faces a stark warning from voters ahead of crucial 2026 elections. Read the full analysis.
Disability charity Scope is shutting 77 of its 138 UK stores in a major restructure to tackle a £8.9m deficit. The closures, alongside job cuts, aim to save millions as charity retail faces soaring costs and online competition.
Major UK DIY supplier Toolstation has entered administration, with staff told to stay home and more than 100 roles set to be cut. Get the latest updates on this breaking story.
A London skin doctor issues a critical safety alert for hot water bottle users, revealing a hidden expiry date that could lead to serious burns. Learn how to stay safe this winter.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces criticism as high street sales slump post-Budget. Retailers report disastrous December with 'bleak' outlook into January. Read the full analysis.
Advanced weather maps show a major winter blast bringing up to four inches of snow across the UK on December 30, impacting millions. See the full forecast and timeline here.
Experts argue that focusing on intent allows racism to flourish in British politics, as seen with Nigel Farage. Read why passivity is complicity.
Discover the UK's top boxing betting sites for odds, promos & apps. Get expert picks for the Joshua vs Paul fight and learn how to bet responsibly.
Actor Vinette Robinson supports The Independent's SafeCall campaign to raise £165,000 for Missing People charity, offering a lifeline to young people in crisis.
A woman named Saturday Morning Cooks reveals the constant struggle of convincing people her unique name is genuine. Discover the challenges of unconventional names in the UK.