NI drivers face total mobile phone ban under new law
Northern Ireland plans to outlaw all hand-held mobile phone use while driving, the first major legal update since 2004. The move targets dangerous behaviours like taking photos or scrolling.
Northern Ireland plans to outlaw all hand-held mobile phone use while driving, the first major legal update since 2004. The move targets dangerous behaviours like taking photos or scrolling.
Hundreds of families had Christmas Day ruined after a kitchen extractor fan failure forced Miller & Carter in Hockley Heath to close. Read the full story of the last-minute cancellations.
Newly released archives reveal a 1992 row where PM John Major joked being shouted at by Irish Justice Minister Padraig Flynn was 'like the House of Commons' over Northern Ireland security cooperation.
Newly-released documents detail how the White House aimed to prevent a photo of Bill Clinton shaking Gerry Adams' hand during his historic 1995 Belfast visit. Discover the diplomatic manoeuvres.
Declassified files reveal British officials' fears after the 2004 Northern Bank heist. Discover how the £26m robbery impacted the peace process and the hunt for the mastermind.
The Department for Infrastructure unveils a draft plan to cut vehicle noise pollution, including speed restrictions in 10 areas. Public consultation open until Jan 2026.
The Royal Signals (Northern) Band in Darlington is recruiting local musicians after a successful Play Day. Discover how to join this Army Reserve band and develop your skills.
Whitehaven-based startup ScrubMarine has raised over $1m in pre-seed funding to develop its autonomous 'Turtle and Whale' robot system for cleaning ship hulls, tackling biofouling and cutting emissions.
A rare earthquake shook towns across northern England late last night, with the epicentre near Burnley. Residents reported violent shaking and minor damage. Read the full report.
A UK family shares their unforgettable journey to Lapland to meet Father Christmas, enjoy husky rides, and witness the Northern Lights. Discover travel tips and what makes this festive adventure so special.
Major changes from January 1, 2026, will restrict the new car models available in Northern Ireland due to post-Brexit regulations. Find out how this impacts your next vehicle purchase.
Gateshead's NEL Fund Managers celebrates a record 2025, backing 34 regional SMEs from EV charging to IT. Discover how NPIF II funding is driving growth and jobs across the North East.
Fresh weather maps show a 'snow bomb' is set to hit eight counties across northern England on December 21. Find out the latest forecast and travel warnings.
UK considers new driving laws for over-70s as data reveals they represent 13% of road fatalities. Read the full report findings and potential changes.
A 13-year-old's solo Christmas campaign for Feeding Families yielded an astonishing mountain of food donations, set to help hundreds. Discover how one young person sparked community action.
Major European broadcasters boycott Eurovision 2026 after EBU confirms Israel's place. Discover which countries have withdrawn and why. Read the full story.
Northern mayors announce the Great North Investment Summit in Leeds for May 2026, aiming to attract global investors and add over £100bn to the UK economy. A landmark event for the region's future.
A major snowstorm lasting 30 hours is forecast for mid-December, hitting six counties across northern England and Scotland. Get the latest maps and travel warnings.
The families of three girls lost in the Southport tragedy received a Special Award for their courage and inspiring charities. The Guide Liverpool celebrated a decade of local media.
A mother of two autistic sons shares her anxiety after the Budget offered little for disabled families facing rising costs and potential benefit cuts. Read her story.
Marketing agency Hussel transforms a Hummer H2 into a 'Mobile Disruption Unit' for live events, backed by the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. Discover how this innovative project is set to revolutionise brand engagement.
TV presenter Alison Hammond joins Shelter's winter appeal after meeting a homeless mother living in temporary accommodation for over five years. Discover how you can help.
Author Philippa Atkins shares her family's story in 'Skye & Luna,' a new children's book helping UK families navigate baby loss, grief, and remembrance. Proceeds support the Luna's Light Appeal.
Newcastle building services firm Northern Bear reports strong half-year growth with revenue reaching £49.4m and operating profit hitting £4.1m, despite challenging market conditions ahead.
Home Office discloses 77 unresolved Troubles-era deaths in England as MPs debate new legacy legislation, ending immunity for terrorists and establishing an independent commission.
The UK government introduces new Troubles legislation to investigate unsolved killings and provide answers for bereaved families. Learn about the new Legacy Commission.
Met Office warns of up to 20cm snow hitting Cumbria, Northumberland and Durham tomorrow. Get essential winter preparedness tips and full weather forecast details.
Northern Rail unveils ambitious '30 by 30' plan to boost passenger numbers by 30 million by 2030. Discover how improved reliability and new systems aim to transform travel across the North of England.
The Met Office has upgraded UK snow warnings, predicting up to 20cm (eight inches) of snow. Seven counties in northern England are on alert. Discover the latest forecasts and affected areas.
Chloe McGee, Shay Duffy, Alan McCluskey, Dylan Commins, and Chloe Hipson died in a tragic collision in Co Louth. Read the latest on the investigation.