5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Huge new £396million train station opens in European city that looks like its from a sci-fi film
A NEW multi-million euro train station has opened in a major city – and it looks like something from Star Trek.
Belgium‘s Mons station has opened decades after it was first announced.
AFPA futuristic train station has opened in Europe[/caption]
discoveringbelgiumThe train station had hoped to open in 2012 although has faced a number of delays[/caption]
AFPThe huge project cost €480million to build[/caption]
Having started in 2001, the initial €37million (£30.4million) cost has soared to the current €480million (£384million) cost.
It was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, also behind the the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia and the World Trade Center Transportation Hub in New York.
Running years behind schedule – it had hoped to open by 2012 – it finally opened earlier this week.
The original station opened in 1841, connecting Brussels to Paris.
This was later replaced in 1874 due to capacity constraints, only for it to be destroyed by World War II bombings, in 1944.
Another new structure was built in 1952, only for this to close in 2013.
This was then demolished to make space for the new station.
The modern new train hub has five platforms, including for buses and taxies alongside trains.
Despite the huge station, it only sees just over 9,000 passengers every day, with 189 services in the week.
And new international services have been restored between Paris and Brussels.
Run by low-cost Ouigo, the three-hour journey between the capitals will cost between €10 (£8.22) and €59 (£48).
The city of Mons was once a European City of Culture status.
Brits can visit the city by hopping on the Eurostar at London St Pancras, getting off at either Lille or Brussels.
A direct train from either city then takes around one hour.
Or, Brits can travel from the UK via Eurotunnel, with Mons a two-hour drive from Calais.
Antwerp Central Railway Station is said to be like “travelling back to the golden age of travel” with marble floors and stained glass windows.
First opened in 1905, it was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.
Three scenic train journeys you can take in the UK
Cornish Coast – One trip that rail enthusiasts seem to love is along a stretch of the Cornish coast and takes just 10 minutes to complete.
The route from St Erth to St Ives only stops at Carbis Bay en route to its final destination, but the views out the window for the whole journey are pretty spectacular.
Another highlight of the journey is that St Ives station is situated right next to Porthminster beach, meaning the sand and sea can be accessed almost immediately.
Meanwhile, the station is less than a ten minute walk into town, where the harbour, shops, galleries and pubs can be explored.
Durham to Edinburgh – Another train route that people in the UK love is the East Coast train line between Durham and Edinburgh, with coastal views and city landscapes among the sights that can be seen out the window.
Newcastle, Berwick, Lindisfarne and Durham Cathedral are all among the highlights on that route.
Scotland’s West Highland Line – While Scotland is home to plenty of famous landmarks and top attractions, it also has one of the most breathtaking train routes in the world.
Scotland’s West Highland Line has previously been dubbed the best rail journey in the world by Wanderlust – and it’s easy to see why.
With mountain landscapes, serene lochs, wistful moors, and wildlife all visible through the train window, it’s certainly a route all holidaymakers should consider doing at least once.
A total of 10 sites were earmarked for closure, with an eleventh in Antrim, Northern Ireland, originally set to shut saved.
Discussions with landlords over rent reductions meant two additional garden centres in Morpeth and Stapleton will be moved to other operators.
In a statement, the firm said the move will enable Dobbies to return to “sustainable profitability and unlock access to “future investment”.
In November, Dobbies shut six of its smaller format Little Dobbies locations.
By the end of tomorrow, 10 further locations will have closed.
Garden centres in Altrincham, Harleston Heath and Gosforth have already shuttered. Tomorrow, these four will permanently close:
Reading
Stratford-upon-Avon
Inverness
Huntingdon
Sales have been launched at the Dobbies garden centres in Reading, Stratford-upon-Avon and Huntingdon, with big deals to be had.
Bargain hunters recently shared pictures online of the huge discounts on offer including 70% off homeware as well as deals on plants, garden equipment, toys, gifts and Christmas decorations.
One posted pictures of shelves of discounted items and said: “Lots of sale items in Dobbies Garden Centre!”
Another added: “50% of almost everything.”
TROUBLE FOR DIY AND GARDEN STORES
High inflation coupled with a squeeze on shoppers’ finances has meant people have less money to spend in the shops.
Garden centres and home improvement businesses also boomed during the pandemic when customers were stuck at home.
But customers have been forced to cut back on spending since due to high inflation and a national cash crunch.
EMPTY shops have become an eyesore on many British high streets and are often symbolic of a town centre’s decline.
The Sun’s business editor Ashley Armstrong explains why so many retailers are shutting their doors.
In many cases, retailers are shutting stores because they are no longer the money-makers they once were because of the rise of online shopping.
Falling store sales and rising staff costs have made it even more expensive for shops to stay open. In some cases, retailers are shutting a store and reopening a new shop at the other end of a high street to reflect how a town has changed.
The problem is that when a big shop closes, footfall falls across the local high street, which puts more shops at risk of closing.
Retail parks are increasingly popular with shoppers, who want to be able to get easy, free parking at a time when local councils have hiked parking charges in towns.
Many retailers including Next and Marks & Spencer have been shutting stores on the high street and taking bigger stores in better-performing retail parks instead.
Boss Stuart Machin recently said that when it relocated a tired store in Chesterfield to a new big store in a retail park half a mile away, its sales in the area rose by 103 per cent.
In some cases, stores have been shut when a retailer goes bust, as in the case of Wilko, Debenhams Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Paperchase to name a few.
What’s increasingly common is when a chain goes bust a rival retailer or private equity firm snaps up the intellectual property rights so they can own the brand and sell it online.
They may go on to open a handful of stores if there is customer demand, but there are rarely ever as many stores or in the same places.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on The nation’s favourite Xmas film heartthrob revealed – and it isn’t Love Actually’s Hugh Grant or The Holiday’s Jude Law
THEY stole our hearts in Love Actually and The Holiday, but Hugh Grant and Jude Law aren’t the only heartthrobs viewers love.
As fans prepare to binge-watch their favourite Christmas films this festive season, new research has revealed who wins the trophy for the most desirable heartthrob.
AlamyJude Law’s role in The Holiday had us all swooning.[/caption]
Getty - ContributorBruce Willis takes the top spot as the nation’s favourite heartthrob[/caption]
AlamyHugh Grant appears twice in the list for his roles in Love Actually and Bridget Jones’s Diary[/caption]
Taking the top spot is the iconic Bruce Willis for his role in Die Hard back in 1988.
The research, carried out by Slingo, ranked the Christmas movie heartthrob based on factors like facial features, social media popularity, and Google search trends.
The popular actor, who played John McClane in the film, received a 6.7 attractiveness rating in the movie, has a staggering 55 million searches on his name, and has amassed two million Instagram followers.
In second place, and surprisingly surpassing his co-star Jude Law in the same movie, is Jack Black for his role as Miles in The Holiday.
Known for playing Kate Winslet‘s love interest in the Christmas rom-com, Jack earned a strong 7.6 attractiveness score out of 10, has over 14 million social media followers and 42 million searches to his name overall.
Following closely behind is Hugh Grant with his role in Love Actually as the Prime Minister.
Fans can never get enough of him and Natalie’s love story in the movie and the stats show – Hugh had an attractiveness rating of 6.2 and a strong social media following.
Bruce played John McClane in the iconic 1988 movieKobal Collection - ShutterstockAlamyJack Black is the nation’s second favourite heartthrob thanks to his role in The Holiday.[/caption]
And as if one wasn’t enough, Hugh secures a second spot on the list, with his character Daniel Cleaver in Bridget Jones’s Diary proving popular in fourth position.
Jude Law also secured fourth place as one of the most attractive heartthrobs after starring as Graham in The Holiday, which had an IMDb rating of 7.
Jude, who appeared alongside on-screen love interest Cameron Diaz, had 12 million searches and an attractiveness rating of 6.4 – but stays clear of any social media.
The actor with the highest attractiveness rating overall was Rodrigo Santoro with 8.5.
Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber in Die Hard.Kobal Collection - ShutterstockAlamyColin Firth as Mr Darcy in Bridget Jones’s Diary.[/caption]
Andrew Lincoln in Love Actually.
Rodrigo is most known for his role as Karl in Love Actually, who almost found love with Sarah, with her romanticising over him for ‘two years, seven months, three days and an hour and thirty minutes’.
Rodrigo’s co-stars Colin Firth and Bill Nighy weren’t far behind – as Firth had an attractiveness rating of 6.6, compared to a 6.7 during his stint in Bridget Jones.
Nighy, who famously played the role of musician Billy Mack, received 5.7.
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Thousands on Universal Credit & benefits entitled to Christmas cash worth up to £8,017
WITH Christmas around the corner, and the cost of living continuing to rise, many households are feeling the financial strain.
For those receiving benefits like Universal Credit, the winter period can be particularly challenging, as budgets are stretched to cover everyday essentials and festive expenses.
Households should be aware of all the financial support they can receive
However, there is good news: a range of additional benefits and freebies are available that could provide much-needed relief.
These extras, worth up to £8,017.22, are designed to support low-income families and ensure no one is left struggling unnecessarily.
From energy bill grants to free childcare and more, this article highlights practical steps to access support and make the most of the assistance available.
Whether you’re looking for help with housing, food, or even funeral costs, there’s something here for everyone.
Read on to learn how to lighten your financial load and enjoy a more secure and stress-free holiday season.
1. Household support fund – up to £500
The Household Support Fund is aimed at helping low-income households with essential costs, such as food, energy bills, and household items.
Each local council administers its own fund, which means that the type of support available and eligibility criteria can vary significantly depending on where you live.
Help is usually available to households on a low income or who receiving benefits like Universal Credit.
However, some councils will offer help to anyone that needs it. There may also be restrictions on how often you can access help from the fund.
Contact your local council to find out what’s available in your area and how to apply.
This might include completing an online form or providing evidence of your financial circumstances.
2. Council tax discount – up to £1,628.25
If you’re struggling with council tax payments, you may be eligible for a reduction of up to 75%. In some severe cases, your council tax bill could even be completely cancelled.
Eligibility depends on your income, whether you live alone or with others, and if you or someone in your household has a disability. Contact your council to find out whether you qualify for a discount.
You’ll need to provide proof of income and other details about your household.
For a Band D property, a 75% reduction amounts to £1,628.25 per year. The exact value depends on your council tax band and local rates.
3. Energy bill grants – up to £1,700
Many energy suppliers offer grants to help customers struggling with their bills. These grants can be used to clear outstanding debts or provide support for ongoing costs.
You must demonstrate financial hardship and may need to provide proof of income or benefits like Universal Credit.
Each energy supplier sets its own criteria.
Visit your energy supplier’s website to see what grants are available and complete an application form. Supporting documents are usually required.
The level of support on offer varies, but the British Gas Energy Fund, for example, offers grants up to £1,700 to eligible customers.
4. Discretionary housing payment (DHP) – average £518
A DHP provides extra help with housing costs for those already receiving housing benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
This support can cover rent shortfalls, deposits, or moving costs.
To get the help, you must be in receipt of housing benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
Beyond that, eligibility is determined by your local council based on your financial situation.
Contact your local council to request a DHP application form. Be prepared to explain your circumstances and provide evidence of financial need.
The average payment is £518, though this varies depending on your council’s policies and your individual needs.
5. Welfare assistance scheme
These schemes, run by councils, offer emergency financial help for essentials like food, clothing, and household appliances.
The type of support and amounts available vary widely between local authorities.
You typically need to be on a low income or receiving benefits like Universal Credit, but each council sets its own criteria.
Contact your local council to find out what assistance is available and how to apply.
The amounts can be substantial, for example, Merton Council offers up to £500 for essential household items, with additional support for emergencies.
6. Free childcare – up to £1,739.37 per month
Universal Credit claimants can get back up to 85% of childcare costs, up to a monthly limit. This includes nurseries, after-school clubs, and holiday clubs.
You must be working and claiming Universal Credit, and the childcare provider must be registered.
You can submit receipts for childcare costs through your Universal Credit journal.
You’ll receive up to£1,014.63 per month for one child or £1,739.37 for two or more children.
This is a maximum, and the actual amount you get will depend on your childcare costs.
7. Flexible support fund – up to £150
This fund helps with work-related expenses, such as travel, uniforms, or training.
It’s designed to support Universal Credit claimants who are actively seeking employment.
You must be working with a JobCentre Plus advisor to find employment to get the money.
It’s a discretionary fund, so you need to talk to your advisor about your needs and the application process.
Training costs can be covered up to £150, and there is additional support available to cover things like uniform, commute costs, training, and childcare.
8. Help to save scheme – £25 bonus in December
The Help to Save scheme rewards Universal Credit claimants who save some money by offering a 50% government bonus.
You can save up to £50 a month for five years, which means the maximum bonus this December is £25.
To apply, open an account through the government’s Help to Save website. Over four years, you could earn up to £1,200 in bonuses.
9. DWP Christmas bonus – £10
The Department for Work and Pensions pays a one-off Christmas bonus of £10 to benefits claimants – including people on Universal Credit. The money is automatically paid to people who are eligible in December.
10. School uniform grants – up to £200
Grants are available from some councils to help with the cost of school uniforms.
In Wales, the grant is worth £200, while in England, amounts vary by council.
Most councils say you need to be getting benefits, such as Universal Credit, but some have additional criteria. Check your local council’s website for details.
11. Healthy start vouchers – £42.50 in December
These vouchers help pregnant women and families with children under four to buy healthy food and milk.
They’re available for households on Universal Credit that earn less than per month.
The money is loaded onto a card and can only be spent on certain things such as fruit, vegetables, and milk-based formulas.
Apply online via the Healthy Start website. For December, the maximum benefit is £42.50, depending on the age of your children.
12. Warm homes discount scheme – £150
The Warm Homes Discount offers a £150 reduction on energy bills applied directly to your account by your supplier.
Universal Credit claimants typically qualify, but not all suppliers participate, so you need to check with your energy provider to see if they’re part of the scheme.
13. Free prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests – save up to £319.10
Universal Credit claimants may qualify for free NHS prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests if their income is below a certain threshold.
Single claimants must have a take-home pay of £435 or less. This limit increases to £935 for those with children or limited work capability.
To apply, you need to complete an HC1 form, which can be found on the gov.uk or NHS websites.
Savings can range from £9.54 for a prescription to £319.10 for complex dental treatment.
14. Social broadband tariffs – save £5-£15 monthly
Discounted broadband plans are available for low-income households. Prices range from £14.99 to £20 per month.
Usually, you’ll need to show that you’re on a low income, and lots or providers say you need to be in receipt of certain benefits.
Contact your broadband provider to ask about social tariffs and whether you qualify.
15. Water bill help
Water companies offer social tariffs to reduce bills for low-income households.
Discounts vary by provider, as do the eligibility criteria. Visit the CCW website to find details for your provider.
Bournemouth Water offers up to 85% off bills, while Affinity Water caps charges at £79.70 annually.
16. Funeral expenses payment – up to £1,000
This payment helps cover funeral costs for a partner, child, or close relative if you’re on Universal Credit or a low income.
You can apply through the DWP online or by post.
You can get up to 1,000 for funeral-related expenses.
17. Sure Start maternity grant – £500
Expecting your first child? You may be entitled to a £500 maternity grant to help with costs.
You need to be on certain benefits, including Universal Credit to get the cash. To apply, submit an SF100 form online or via post.
Are you missing out on benefits?
YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to
Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.
MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.
You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.
Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on The healthiest supermarket wines to drink this Christmas – including red, white, bubbly and alcohol-free
WE all know that alcohol is bad for us.
Not only does it give us a pounding headache and ‘hangxiety‘ the morning after, it can also cause long-term health problems.
GettyMany people crack open a bottle of wine at Christmas, but which is the healthiest type?[/caption]
Heavy drinking wreaks havoc on the brain, heart, liver and pancreas, and increases our risk of several types of cancer.
That’s why the NHS advises us not to drink more than 14 units (about one and a half bottles of wine) a week.
That said, several studies have shown that some booze, particularly vino, could actually provide some benefits.
Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast found drinking red wine could cut your risk of developing dementia by up to a third — if you also eat the odd square of dark chocolate and drink tea.
And scientists at the University of Leicester say the chemical resveratrol, found in red wine, may help protect against cancer.
They are even trialling a preventative bowel cancer pill made from the stuff.
But don’t go glugging willy-nilly over Christmas as it’s important to choose the right bottles, experts warn.
Registered dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine and nutritionist and best-selling author Rhiannon Lambert reveal their healthiest picks.
RED WINE
“For the healthiest choice, go for red wines with high antioxidant content and lower sugar levels,” Nichola says.
“Wines made from thick-skinned grapes like cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, and merlot are often higher in polyphenols.”
“If you’re watching your sugar intake, steer clear of shiraz and port and opt for ‘dry’ or ‘extra dry’ varieties, as these usually contain less than 1g of sugar per glass,” Rhiannon adds.
Many French, Spanish, and Italian reds are in this category.
“Lower sugar levels in wine can be helpful for people managing insulin sensitivity or aiming to avoid sugar-induced energy crashes, as well as keeping to the NHS recommended 30g of sugar a day,” she says.
Affordable examples available in supermarkets include Campo Viejo Rioja (£7.50 from Asda) or 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon (£9.15 from Iceland).
For a non-alcoholic option, try Torres Natureo Red (£6 from Ocado), which retains the flavours of red wine without the alcohol.
Campo Viejo Rioja, £7.50 from Asda, and 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon, £9.15 from Iceland
If your budget can stretch, drink organic wines as this will improve the health benefits.
Rhiannon says: “Organic or biodynamic wines are often made without artificial pesticides or sulphites and are less processed,” she adds.
“They may also have higher levels of natural polyphenols.”
WHITE WINE
On average, dry white wine contains approximately 1.4g of sugar per 175ml glass, according to Rhiannon.
“This makes them slightly higher in sugar than red wines,” she adds.
“The sugar in wine comes from the natural sugars in grapes, and the amount remaining after fermentation, known as residual sugar, varies depending on the type of wine and wine making process.
“Wines labelled as ‘dry’ generally have the least residual sugar of all white wines.
“Opting for dry whites like sauvignon blanc or chardonnay can be an excellent choice to minimise fluctuations in blood sugar levels.”
Choosing a taller, slimmer glass can create the illusion of a larger drink, helping you feel more satisfied
Rhiannon LambertNutritionist
Despite having a slightly higher sugar content than red wine, white varieties often contain slightly less alcohol.
They could also play a small role in aiding digestion.
“While red wine is understood to be more beneficial to our gut health than white wine, dry white wines, particularly sauvignon blanc and pinot grigio, are known for their acidity, which not only enhances their flavour but may also aid digestion when paired with meals,” the expert says.
“The acidity in wine is thought to help stimulate the production of gastric juices.
“But it’s important to remember that red wine contains more antioxidants, such as resveratrol and catechins, which may provide added health benefits.
“It’s also worth remembering, the differences between red and white wines in terms of sugar, calories, and overall health benefits are relatively small.
“Ultimately, moderation is key when it comes to wine consumption, regardless of the type, as over-consumption can outweigh any potential benefits.”
Tesco Finest Sauvignon Blanc (£8) and McGuigan Zero Sauvignon Blanc (£4 from Sainsbury’s)
If you are drinking white this Christmas, Rhiannon recommends Tesco Finest Sauvignon Blanc (£8), which is “dry and crisp with minimal residual sugar”, or Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Pinot Grigio (£8.25).
Another good option, according to the expert, is Aldi‘s Specially Selected Chablis (£9.99), which is “elegant, dry, and lower in sugar”. £9.99.
But if you want a glass of something booze-free, why not try McGuigan Zero Sauvignon Blanc (£4 from Sainsbury’s)?
And if you can, like red, consider organic varieties that are made without synthetic pesticides or sulphites.
BUBBLY
Whether it’s on Christmas morning or welcoming in 2025, December is a great time of year to crack open a bottle of bubbly.
Champagne, Prosecco and Cava are all popular sparkling wines, each with distinct production methods.
If you’re after one with the least amount of sugar, look for the word ‘brut’ on the bottle.
“It is French for ‘dry, raw or unrefined’ and means it will have less sugar,” Rhiannon says.
Aldi’s Specially Selected Chablis (£9.99) and Freixenet 0.0% Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine (£5 from Tesco)
Cava, Spain’s sparkling wine, is made using the traditional method, like Champagne, where secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle.
It offers a similar flavour profile to Champagne but at a more affordable price, and often with lower sugar contents in brut or extra brut styles.
“Whatever fizz you decide on, brut or extra brut will generally have the lowest sugar and calorie content, making them the best choices for those mindful of sugar intake while still enjoying the festive bubbles,” Rhiannon says.
Pairing wines with a balanced meal can help reduce their impact on blood sugar levels
Rhiannon LambertNutritionist
Champagne is generally the most expensive of the three due to its prestigious production methods and the labour-intensive process of ageing.
“However, nutritionally, there’s not much difference between Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava, so choosing the best option comes down to personal preference,” the expert adds.
If you’re shopping in Waitrose, then Blanc de Blancs Brut Sparkling Wine (£26.99) has “great flavour and low sugar levels”.
You could also try Aldi’s Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut (£6.25) or Tesco’s Finest Premier Cru Champagne Brut (£25).
“Non-alcoholic bubbly and wines are becoming more popular at the moment due to their improved taste and quality, providing a great alternative for those who want the experience of fizz or wine without the alcohol,” Rhiannon says.
“However, non-alcoholic wines tend to contain more sugar than their alcoholic counterparts in order to replicate a similar taste profile, so they may not be the best option for people who need to manage blood sugar levels.
“Yet due to their low alcohol content, their calorie content is lower.”
The healthiest wines in UK supermarkets
RED
Campo Viejo Rioja (£7.50 from Asda)
19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon (£9.15 from Iceland)
Torres Natureo Red (£6 from Ocado)
WHITE
Tesco Finest Sauvignon Blanc (£8)
Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Pinot Grigio (£8.25)
Aldi’s Specially Selected Chablis (£9.99)
McGuigan Zero Sauvignon Blanc (£4 from Sainsbury’s)
BUBBLY
Blanc de Blancs Brut Sparkling Wine (£26.99 from Waitrose)
Aldi’s Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut (£6.25)
Tesco’s Finest Premier Cru Champagne Brut (£25)
Freixenet 0.0% Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine (£5 from Tesco)
For a healthy alcohol-free bubbly, try Freixenet 0.0% Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine (£5 from Tesco).
Whatever you choose, remember “moderation is key”, Rhiannon says.
“Plus, pairing wines with a balanced meal can help reduce their impact on blood sugar levels,” she adds.
“Portion sizes are also important to keep in mind.
“Choosing a taller, slimmer glass can create the illusion of a larger drink, helping you feel more satisfied.
“Stick to 100ml to 125ml per serving and limit yourself to no more than two or three drinks at a time to enjoy your wine in a healthier way.”
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Woman charged with murder of ‘smiley’ boy, 5, found dead at home with ‘immensely complex’ probe ongoing
A WOMAN has been charged with murder after a “cheeky” five-year-boy was found dead at home in Essex.
Claire Button, 35, is set to appear at court tomorrow.
Essex PoliceLincoln Button[/caption]
UKNIPThe horror unfolded in South Ockendon, Essex[/caption]
Police swooped on the address in Windstar Drive, South Ockendon, on December 15 after reports of serious concerns for the welfare of Ms Button and little Lincoln Button.
Officers and paramedics tried desperately to save the child but sadly he died.
Mrs Button was taken to hospital for treatment and has since been discharged and arrested.
She was questioned by detectives before being charged and will appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Lincoln’s family paid tribute, saying: “Link was a cherished, loved, sweet, beautiful young soul who was adored by all and will be sorely missed every day.”
Lincoln was a Year 1 pupil at Bonnygate Primary School, in South Ockendon which is part of the Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust.
In a statement, the school said: “His love for school, laughter and cuddles will be remembered and missed dearly.
“The school is working closely with the authorities and is being supported by Thurrock Council’s education team, who offer support and advice to schools over sensitive issues.
“The school’s priority is to support those within the community who need help to come to terms with this tragic loss.”
POLICE STATEMENT
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Blakesley, who is leading the investigation, said: “This continues to prove to be an immensely complex investigation into the death of a young child.
“My thoughts and the thoughts of all the investigative team remain with the family of Lincoln Button as we continue to support them through this awful time.
“It has taken a huge amount of work and dedication from the investigative team to reach this stage in our investigation and I would continue to call upon the public to refrain from speculating about the circumstances around this case.
“Any case as harrowing as this will understandably attract attention.
“But as we move to the point of charge, the time has come to respect the judicial process and to continue allowing Lincoln’s family privacy and the space to grieve.”
instagram/ruthlangsfordRuth Langsford has shared a look at her elderly’s mum face bruising after a nasty fall saw her taken to hospital[/caption]
instagram/ruthlangsfordRuth tried to soothe the bruising with Arnica cream[/caption]
instagram/ruthlangsfordRuth with her elderly mum Joan[/caption]
And in the most recent update, Loose Women’s Ruth, 65, shared a look at her mum’s bruising down her face.
She wrote: “Mum’s got a right shiner after her fall,” before telling fans that she was trying to soothe it with Arnica cream.
TV star Ruth also penned: “94 years old and hardly a grey hair… I’m hoping I’ve inherited the gene.”
Ruth first told fans of her mum’s horror accident as she penned: “Hospital visit….thank you all so much for your lovely messages and well wishes for my darling Mum.
“She’ll be in hospital for a bit longer yet, but she’s in pretty good spirits considering and I hope she’ll be home for Christmas.”
The former This Morning anchor then took to the comments section to reply to one fan, who wrote: “Aw bless her, I bet she is a model patient.
“Hopefully she will be better soon and home soon for Christmas, have a lovely Christmas.”
Mum of one Ruth was quick to reply: “She is a model patient.
“Although a bit discombobulated.”
In her more recent update, Ruth showed her mum tuning into the programme Butterflies, featuring Wendy Craig and Geoffrey Palmer from 1978.
Yet the timing of Eamonn’s recent romantic trip to Paris with new girlfriend Katie Alexander – and the divorce conditions – have sparked speculation he is now engaged to the marriage counsellor.
She was seen wearing a huge ring as she strolled the streets of the French capital.
InstagramRuth’s mum’s injury prompted her ex Eamonn to get in touch[/caption]
RexRuth has been visiting her elderly mum in hospital after her fall[/caption]
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on طرق لجعل البقاء في Minecraft أكثر تحديًا – الجزء الرابع
طرق لجعل البقاء في Minecraft أكثر تحديًا، ن تحدي Nomad هو تمامًا كما يوحي اسمه: عليك أن تظل دائمًا في حالة تنقل. في هذا التحدي، يُمنع استخدام الصناديق لتخزين الموارد،...
5 days agoUSA UpdateComments Off on كيفية استخدام سماعات البلوتوث على Switch
استخدام سماعات البلوتوث على Switch، جزء كبير من سبب شعبية Nintendo Switch هو قابليته للنقل، ولكن على الرغم من سهولة حمله وحمله، إلا أن هناك عيبًا رئيسيًا واحدًا في Switch:...
