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Alleged N2bn fraud: Court dismisses TSTV CEO, Echefu’s suit to stop police probe
A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the application by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Telcom Satellite Television Service (TSTV), Dr Bright Echefu seeking to stop the Inspector General of Police (IGP) from investigating him on an alleged N2 billion fraud. Justice Inyang Ekwo on Wednesday dismissed the application for […]
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Give us economic relief as anniversary gift, Hijrah body tells Tinubu
The National Hijrah Organisation of Nigeria on Wednesday called on President Bola Tinubu to come up with robust economic policies capable of reducing the suffering of Nigerians. The body equally charged leaders at all tiers of government to prioritise the welfare of the suffering masses through implementation of people-centric policies and programmes. The group made […]
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Legal Aid Council commends facilities at Kuje correctional centre
The Director General of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON), Aliyu Bagudu Abubakar has commended the standard of facilities for the rehabilitation of inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Service Correctional Centre in Kuje, FCT. Abubakar, who stated this during the recent lawyers and paralegals’ monthly custodial centres visit, described the computers in the ICT […]
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Thuraya launch ‘ll boost fight against insecurity, illegal mining – Minister
The Minister of Communication, Innovations and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani Wednesday expressed hope that the launch of Thuraya communication products and services will help in the fight against insecurity, illegal mining and oil thefts in the country. The minister spoke in Abuja while making remarks during the official launch of Thuraya products and services […]
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Brush fire breaks out in Pacheco Pass in Santa Clara County
The blaze had consumed 30 acres and was 20% contained as of Wednesday night.
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Upbeat Charles shows off his dance moves as he welcomes Grace Jones & ex-rugby star at glitzy Commonwealth reception
AN UPBEAT King Charles showed off his dance moves during a Commonwealth reception last night.
The monarch, 75, was given a lesson in Samoan dancing ahead of his trip to the Pacific Island nation.
Among the guests at the bash were singer Grace Jones, 76, Strictly judge Craig Revell Horwood, 59, and Foreign Secretary David Lammy.
Ex-pro rugby player Freddie Tuilagi, 53, held at a hand and asked Charles to dance with him.
The King put down his drink and was all smiles as he held out his arms and mimicked his teacher’s fluttering hands.
Mr Tuilagi, an honorary consul with the Samoan High Commission, also gave the monarch a ceremonial fly swat.
Speaking about the performance, the former St Helens winger said: “I told King I’m going to dance for you, when you go to Samoa, this is how they will dance.”
In response to Charles’ dancing technique, he added: “Good, he’s got the moves.”
The King was joined by Queen Camilla, as well as Sophie The Duchess of Edinburgh and The Duke of Kent.
Later this month, he will head to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
Full list of benefits eligible for DWP’s Christmas bonus – will you get an extra payment?
FAMILIES on benefits may get a handy £10 boost this winter as we head into the Christmas season.
The Department for Work and Pension’s (DWP) Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free £10 payment made before December 25.
Even better, you don’t need to do anything, you should be paid automatically.
Not everyone who gets benefits receives the payments. You need to live in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Gibraltar during the qualifying week, or to show that you are ordinarily resident there.
You also need to get one of the qualifying benefits first.
Who gets the payments?
It’s paid to people who get certain benefits in the qualifying week, which is usually the first full week of December.
The full list of benefits are:
- Adult Disability Payment
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- Carer Support Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance (paid under Industrial Injuries or War Pensions schemes)
- Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance (once the main phase of the benefit is entered after the first 13 weeks of claim)
- Disability Living Allowance
- Incapacity Benefit at the long-term rate
- Industrial Death Benefit (for widows or widowers)
- Mobility Supplement
- Pension Credit – the guarantee element
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- State Pension (including Graduated Retirement Benefit)
- Severe Disablement Allowance (transitionally protected)
- Unemployability Supplement or Allowance (paid under Industrial Injuries or War Pensions schemes)
- War Disablement Pension at State Pension age
- War Widow’s Pension
- Widowed Mother’s Allowance
- Widowed Parent’s Allowance
- Widow’s Pension
However, the DWP warns that if you are over State Retirement Age but have not claimed your state pension, for instance because you are deferring it, then you won’t get the free cash.
The payment is calculated per individual, which means that if more than one adult in the household is eligible, they’ll each get a £10 payment.
In fact, even if your partner or civil partner does not get one of the qualifying benefits, they may still get the Christmas Bonus if they reach state pension age by the end of the qualifying week.
You don’t need to be married, you can just be living together as if you are. However, you must be entitled to an increase of a qualifying benefit for your partner or civil partner, or the only qualifying benefit you’re getting must be Pension Credit.
How is the money paid?
The money should go into your usual account, and might show up as ‘DWP XB’ on your statement.
The DWP doesn’t say exactly when the money will appear, but it does say that if you think you should get it and the money hasn’t come through by January 1, you must contact your local Jobcentre Plus office or the Pension Service if you’re over state retirement age.
If you get more than one Christmas Bonus, the DWP says you must let it know through the same channels.
Benefits blow
It comes at a time when the Labour Party has announced that the winter fuel payment will no longer be universal, leaving millions of pensioners £300 worse off this winter.
The Winter Fuel Payment used to be available for anyone over state pension age, however, from this year, you’ll only get it if you receive certain benefits, including Pension Credit and Universal Credit if you’re older than 66.
There are thousands of people missing out on Pension Credit because they haven’t applied for it, but it acts as a gateway for lots of valuable benefits including the winter fuel discount.
Read our guide on which benefits qualify, and when you need to apply by.
My top buys for as little as 30p to keep mould and damp at bay this winter as a cleaning expert
AN EXPERT has revealed the six household products you can buy for at little as 30p to keep mould and damp at bay this winter.
Mould and damp are not just unsightly, they can also cause health problems so it’s important to take action if you spot it in your home.
Jane Wilson, cleaning expert and manager at Fantastic Cleaners, has shared six super-cheap products that can help banish mould from every area of your property.
Mould typically shows up in damp or dark areas such as bathroom and wardrobe corners, ceilings corners, along window sills and on stagnant fabrics as small black and brown dots.
If you catch it quickly, it can be cleaned off and, when you’ve removed it, you can take action to prevent it from returning.
Here are some of Jane’s top buys
White vinegar
White vinegar is a “powerful, natural mould killer”, according to Jane.
And, best of all, it’s readily available from supermarkets and corner stores for just a few pennies.
Both Sainsbury’s and Tesco sell 568ml bottles of white vinegar for just 35p.
Jane recommends pouring undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and applying it directly to the mouldy area.
She said that once applied, the vinegar should be left for at least an hour before being scrubbed off with a brush.
After removing the vinegar, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.
Jane explained that “the acidic nature of vinegar breaks down the mould and prevents its return.”
Baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
Baking soda is a household staple that’s effective for removing mould.
Jane explains that it is a particularly good choice for using on delicate surfaces.
The cleaning expert explained that as well as being a great cleaner baking soda has antifungal properties to prevent mould from returning.
And, it wont break the bank. Both Sainsbury’s and Morrisons sell bicarbonate of soda for just 59p.
The expert cleaner advised mixing a quarter of a teaspoon of baking soda with water in a spray bottle before shaking well.
Then spray the solution on to the mouldy surface, scrub with a brush and rinse with with water.
After you’ve cleared away the mould Jane advised spraying the area again and letting it dry to prevent future mould growth.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural and highly effective way to remove mould.
A 20ml bottle will set you back £9 from Boots, making it a little pricier, but it will leave a far nicer scent than a cheaper fix.
Jane recommended mixing one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of water in a spray bottle.
Simply spray the solution onto the mould and let it sit without rinsing.
Jane explained that tea tree oil is a natural fungicide making it particularly effective at killing mould spores and preventing their spread.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice has naturally acidic and antibacterial properties that make it great for dealing with mould problems.
Lemons are a particularly cheap way of removing mould.
Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda are all selling lemons for 30p each.
Jane recommended squeezing the juice from several lemons and applying it directly to the mouldy area.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth, or scrub with a brush on tougher areas.
Jane said the added benefit of using lemon juice is the fresh scent it leaves behind.
Cinnamon oil
Cinnamon oil has antifungal properties that can help prevent mould growth.
Amazon has multiple listings for cinnamon oil, which contains cinnamaldehyde to help inhibit mould growth, for around £5.
Jane said it was particularly useful for treating small areas of mould and preventing it from spreading.
She added: “Unlike some stronger-smelling mould cleaners, cinnamon leaves a warm, pleasant aroma, making it a good choice for use in living areas.”
Jane advised mixing a few drops of cinnamon oil with water in a spray bottle.
Spray the mixture directly onto a mouldy area and let it sit for about an hour before wiping the area clean with a damp cloth.
For persistent mould Jane advised reapplying the solution or combining it with other natural cleaners, such as vinegar, for a stronger effect.
She also recommended sprinkling cinnamon powder on mould-prone areas like windowsills or bathrooms to help prevent mould from returning.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a potent antifungal and antibacterial solution, that’s available online and from some chemists.
Amazon has listings from £3 for 30ml.
Hydrogen peroxide is particularly effective against mould on porous surfaces like wood, drywall, and fabrics, and is safe to use around the home.
Jane advised pouring 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and using it to saturate mouldy areas.
Let it sit for 10 minutes then scrub the surface to remove all mould and stains before wiping the area clean with a damp cloth.
What causes mould?
Mould flourishes where there is condensation, which occurs when warm air hits a cooler surface and creates moisture.
Mould spores are present in the air year round and spread when dampness is present for six hours.
In the home this dampness is normally caused by condensation, which occurs while showering, drying clothes or cooking.
Mould can grow anywhere in a property and can be identified as black speckled marks or grey growths on window sills, woodwork, painted walls, ceilings, wallpaper or fabric.
Jane explained that the best way to prevent mould was to keep your home dry and well-ventilated.
She recommended regularly checking areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
Using a dehumidifier in damp areas can also help reduce the risk of mould growth.
Why should you deal with mould?
Mould is not just unsightly, it can have serious health consequences.
In 2020, youngster Awaab Ishak tragically passed away after living in a one-bedroom housing association flat in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, that was riddled with mould.
If you find any signs of mould or spreading damp, it’s vital to act quickly.
Government guidance states: “Damp and mould primarily affect the airways and lungs, but they can also affect the eyes and skin. The respiratory effects of damp and mould can cause serious illness and, in the most severe cases, death.”
As well as the dangers to your health, mould can cause damage to your home, and leaving it for longer will only end up costing you more to fix it later.
Common Bathroom Habits That Increase Mould
Plumbworld, a leading expert in bathroom and kitchen products, has shared the daily habits that increase the chance of mould growing in homes.
Leaving wet towels and bathmats on floor
Wet towels and bathmats on the floors after a shower or bath can increase humidity levels which provides a perfect breeding ground for mould spores.
To prevent this, hang towels and bathmats in an area where they can dry quickly and to wash them regularly.
Not turning on the fan
An exhaust fan is critical in reducing moisture levels in the bathroom.
When taking a hot shower or bath, steam increases the room’s humidity level, creating an ideal setting for mould to flourish on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.
An exhaust fan helps by moving the moist air outside, significantly reducing the risk of mould growth.
Experts suggest running the fan during the shower and for at least 20-30 minutes afterwards to lower humidity levels.
Ignoring small leaks
Even minor leaks from the sink, toilet, or shower can contribute to increased moisture levels in a bathroom, fostering an environment where mould can thrive.
Over time, these leaks can cause significant water damage, promoting mould growth in less visible areas such as inside walls or under flooring.
Fix leaks promptly to prevent mould and potential structural damage.
Keeping shower curtains or doors closed
Keeping the shower area closed after use traps moisture inside, delaying the drying process and creating a humid environment conducive to mould growth.
Mould can easily develop on shower curtains, doors, and in tile grout if they remain wet for too long.
To avoid this, leave the shower door or curtain open after use to improve air circulation and allow the area to dry more quickly.
Storing too many products
Shower caddies and corners filled with bottles and accessories may seem harmless, but they can obstruct airflow and trap moisture and creates hidden, moist niches where mould can grow unnoticed.
Keep shampoo and shower gel bottles to a minimum, and regularly clean and dry the areas underneath them to prevent mould growing.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
Laurel Thomas makes major mistake with son Arthur after sex bombshell in Emmerdale
LAUREL Thomas looks set to make a major mistake in Emmerdale after discovering her teen son’s sex bombshell.
The mother-and-son duo have been failing to see eye-to-eye in recent weeks amid Arthur‘s recent flings.
Laurel was initially left shocked when Jai admitted he had seen Arthur hanging out with a boy.
It later transpired that Arthur had organised to meet the boy via a hook-up app as he was questioned on if he had been having sex with the boy or not.
Amid an unconfirmed answer, Arthur was then seen spreading even more sex rumours about himself but it did not take Laurel long to find out.
In a bold move, teenage Arthur began telling pals he had been intimate with Aaron Dingle’s on-off lover, John Sugden.
Arthur publicly flirted with John before lying to April about having sex with him.
As Laurel overhears this, she heads to The Woolpack to confront John over him having sex with her son in an exchange witnessed by Aaron.
With John having denied the accusations, it puts Laurel and Arthur at breaking point.
In upcoming scenes on Emmerdale, the relationship between Laurel and Arthur is in turmoil.
The pair will be left failing to see eye-to-eye as tensions continue to boil.
Having provided support to him in the past, Nicola King decides to speak to Arthur.
Unbeknown to Laurel, she managed to get through to him and managed to coax a confession regarding his ‘sex’ with John.
It becomes clear there is a bond between Arthur and Nicola as he begins to lean on for her support as she desperately begs him to make up with Laurel.
However, when Laurel discovers how close her son has gotten with Nicola she is left on the warpath.
As Laurel and Arthur eventually turn a corner amid their fractious relationship, a bad decision by Laurel could cost them their bond once again.
Has Lauren really undone all their good work once again?
Most complained about soap storylines
Over the years, all three of the main soaps have featured plots that have had even die-hard fans reaching for their phones and laptops so they can get in touch with Ofcom and complain. Here are just some of the most scandalous…
