Pensioner forced to cough up five-figure sum to maintain stream outside home after council invokes centuries-old law
A 76-year-old homeowner could be facing a five-figure bill after his local council invoked centuries-old laws to make him responsible for a nearby stream.Graham Ottaway purchased his semi-detached property in St Neots with his wife around nine years ago, believing his boundary ended at the garden fence.Weeks ago, Cambridgeshire County Council told him and his neighbours they must maintain the waterway and surrounding vegetation under "riparian law".Riparian rights and responsibilities are legal obligations attached to land bordering watercourses such as rivers, streams, lakes, ditches or brooks.Landowners with such duties must maintain the waterway, address blockages, prevent flooding and pollution, and protect local wildlife.These obligations stem from common law dating back to ancient Rome.Failure to comply can result in prosecution under modern legislation including the Public Health Act 1936, the Land Drainage Acts 1991 and 1994, and the Environment Agency Land Drainage Bylaws 1981.Mr Ottaway maintains he was never told of his responsibilities, stating they appeared neither in the property deeds nor through his conveyancer."When we did the searches on the property, if something had come back saying we're responsible for thousands of pounds worth of upkeep for the land beyond our fence, we probably wouldn't have bought the house," he told the Daily Mail.Conveyancers, solicitors and sellers should disclose riparian responsibilities, though buyers bear ultimate responsibility for due diligence.Mr Ottaway claims the council has applied the law inconsistently across the area.He pointed out homeowners on the opposite side of the brook face no such requirements, and the council even cuts their grass.COUNCIL FURY - READ MORE:Fury as historic street 'turned into Disney theme park' by slew of 'tacky Harry Potter shops'Furious locals fight back as 1,000-year-old community to be split in half in 'council land grab'Seaside town in revolt at plans for new homes amid fears 'people from Birmingham' would swarm in"Surely if it applies to us, it applies to everybody along the length of the stream. [But] it seems to only apply to certain houses," he added."Now, on the other side of the brook, there are houses. What they're saying is, that doesn't count."The pensioner questions why he should maintain land beyond his property boundary, noting mature oak trees hundreds of years old could cost thousands if they fell."It seems silly to me, they're holding us responsible for something that we have to go down a bank, across a stream, and up the bank on the other side for - something that's not actually in our property."A Cambridgeshire County Council spokesman said: 'Following a report from a member of the public, we inspected Duloe Brook and found it to be in a poor state of repair.'The council stated that maintaining watercourses generally falls to adjacent landowners, though specific duties can vary according to leases and legal agreements.Officers wrote to residents along Duloe Brook reminding them to keep the channel and banks clear to prevent flooding risk.Council staff met with affected homeowners in November 2025 and March 2026 to address their concerns.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Schools should 'revive national pride' on St George's Day in direct challenge to 'anti-patriotic elites', urges academic
Schools should "revive national pride" as part of a direct challenge to the nation's "anti-patriotic elites", an academic has told GB News. Alka Sehgal Cuthbert, an academic who is now director of the campaign group Don't Divide Us, argued that schools should place greater emphasis on national education on St George's Day.Ahead of this year's celebrations for England's patron saint, Ms Sehgal Cuthbert told GB News: "The English flag, like the flag of other nations, is not reducible to a single meaning - good or bad."For too long, the dominant cultural and intellectual narrative has been that England, and by extension Britain, was once regarded as the source of all progress and moral worth but has now been revealed as the opposite: the source of all that is wrong and unjust. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say "This is not true but remains influential among those with cultural power."In this context, raising the flag is best seen as a first, spontaneous response; one that recognises that this damning narrative of our country can no longer go unchallenged.A growing number of voices have also urged schools to fly St George’s flags in classrooms across England amid evidence the younger generation is increasingly less patriotic.There are also concerns that England’s national story is being replaced in the name of multiculturalism.Campaigners argue that teaching the significance would create a renewed sense of shared identity and cultural confidence at a time when national pride is low.A recent poll revealed that half of those aged 16 to 29 said that they would now fight for Britain in a war under any circumstances.Only 38 per cent said they would do so "under some circumstances”.The remaining 12 per cent did not know.The poll of 2,000 people aged from 16 to 29, commissioned by the John Smith Centre at Glasgow University, found that the number expecting their lives to be better than their parents’ had halved in a year, going from 63 per cent to just 36 per cent.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSWATCH: Sadiq Khan skewered on GB News after getting St George's Day wrong in social media post'We need to remember who we are!' Patriotic Briton hails St George's Day celebration as thousands descend on Trafalgar SquareSo-called 'flag-downers' BRAG after pulling 1,000 Union Jacks and English flags from lamppostsMs Sehgal Cuthbert added: "But identities are made from more than symbols alone, and symbols need to have some connection to reality. It would be a pity if challenging the anti-patriotism of our elites remained at the level of flag-raising alone."Why not make St George's Day a day to celebrate England's history with some actual history? Why not have public meetings – school visits – to reintroduce people to part of their past, which is so richly inspiring, where individuals were willing to die for their faith as well as country?"This could be something Brits, by ancestry or civic naturalisation, could feel they want to be part of."It would contribute to making English cultural traditions meaningful for many; and as such it would be wholly in the interest of the public good at a time when some voices would have us believe that English identity is either written in blood or has no existence at all."Meanwhile, Aman Bhogal, a campaigner for a Global Britain, echoed the importance of the day.He claimed that celebrating St George’s Day is the "perfect way to honour and respect our history, heritage and traditions – all things which have been central to building the thousand-year success story that is Britain".Mr Bhogal told GB News: "Our England is a great civilisational nation. Calling England home and belonging to this green and pleasant land is winning the lottery of life."National unity is our biggest strength and that flows from a strong national identity which takes root in our history and traditions. St George’s Day enables local communities across England to remember how local history and legend weaves into our national tapestry."He said: "St George’s Day belongs to us all who value England and all the privileges she offers those who are blessed to proudly call this our home."When my grandfather made England his home all the way back in 1959, this great nation didn’t ask him where he came from, only where he was going."With his affinity for England – something which resonates amongst millions of British Indians celebrating St George fills me and millions like me with great pride and gratitude."Discussing the importance of the St George’s Cross, Mr Bhogal suggested we should be more like America and India in fly their national flags "unapologetically to instil national unity and a proud sense of belonging".He said: "The flag of St George ought to be flown with pride all year round and that is why it was a sight for sore eyes to see the Raise the Colours campaign unfurl last Summer."For the last three decades of the Blairite orthodoxy our national identity has been eroded under the caustic tap of multiculturalism and the toxic identity politics which has been peddled left, right and centre."It’s quite simple, we have an unparalleled history of achievements and glorious traditions which make England truly unique."It is a time for a revival of national pride and far greater learning of the very profound nature of how England and Britain have been a great force for good."Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Councillor claims 'Palestinian' St George has 'no connection to England' and should remind people of war in Gaza
A Nottingham councillor has claimed that "Palestinian" St George has "no connection to England" and should remind people of the war in Gaza.Kirsty L Jones, a Nottingham People's Alliance councillor for the city, believes St George's Day is not "particularly important", and instead serves as a "reminder of the humanity of people in Palestine" due to the patron saint's connections to the Middle East.She told GB News: "Although the history is old, so it’s hard to know the entirety the reality of what happened at the time, St George was born in Palestine to a Palestinian mother and a Syrian father, spent most of his life in Syria and then was killed in Palestine."It is said that his relics remain in occupied Palestine in The Church of Saint George and Mosque of Al-Khadr (a combined Eastern Orthodox church and Mosque)." TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say The Councillor said: "The countries of Portugal, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Georgia, Ukraine, Malta, Ethiopia, and the cities of Moscow and Beirut have claimed George as their patron saint and Saint George is the patron saint of Lebanese Christians, Palestinian Christians and Syrian Christians."England was a bit later than some of these other countries or groups, with St George allocated as a patron saint of England in 1552, which makes sense, as the saint had no legendary connection with England, and no specifically localised shrine. "So, many residents of Nottingham might have connections to countries that have patronised St George, and they may share this in common across many backgrounds."With the ongoing genocide in Palestine, it is another reminder of the humanity of people in Palestine too, when celebrating a patron saint with such a connection to the country, it is another signal that the people of Palestine should be able to live in a free democratic state from the river to the sea, rather than being occupied by Israel and having their lives destroyed or cut short."Ms Jones added: "The rest of the people of Palestine should be celebrated too."Legend has it that St George rode into the ancient city of Silene, in modern-day Libya, to battle a dragon and protect its citizens.However, this story dates to several centuries after the death of St George, and some historians believe it originated in ninth-century artworks that may have been a metaphor for the battle between good and evil.Others believe the story was developed and popularised in the Middle Ages in a compendium of stories about saints' lives, The Golden Legend.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSWATCH: Sadiq Khan skewered on GB News after getting St George's Day wrong in social media post'We need to remember who we are!' Patriotic Briton hails St George's Day celebration as thousands descend on Trafalgar SquareSo-called 'flag-downers' BRAG after pulling 1,000 Union Jacks and English flags from lamppostsThe Nottingham Councillor also claimed that English and middle-class families are "less likely to open their homes to neighbours" to celebrate festivities like St George's Day.Ahead of this year's celebrations for England's national day, Ms Jones told the People's Channel: "If people think that English culture is not celebrated, then they should celebrate it."Perhaps there are some people who self-identify as English and middle-class who are less likely to open their homes to neighbours and strangers as they have been heavily influenced by the neoliberal individualist culture that has been propagated since the 1980s."More collective cultures are more likely to have community-wide celebrations, so people should have access to community spaces as well as being open to connecting with neighbours and strangers to have more visible celebrations."Research by the Policy Institute at King’s College London showed the UK now has some of the highest levels of neighbourhood trust internationally.Only one per cent of the UK has a problem with unmarried couples or people of a different religion being their neighbours, the lowest among the 24 nations analysed.In addition, the data showed that just two per cent of people in the UK say they’d prefer not to have neighbours of a different race, making Britain the most accepting nation.Speaking on the celebration of England's national day, Ms Jones said: "I don’t particularly think it’s important. But it is nice if communities come together and celebrate any occasion."She added: "The legends and stories of St George have been told for hundreds of years across many countries and cultures and if people get enjoyment from that, that’s a good thing."I think anything that brings people together is a strength. The legend of St George is something that is told in many localities and nations, so can be something that people may identify with."A huge St George’s Cross, believed to be the largest display of the flag in the UK, has been unveiled in Nottingham to mark the celebration.The 60-foot-long flag, displayed on Nottingham's Council House in Old Market Square, was unveiled to mark the East Midlands city's annual St George's Day celebrations and is believed to be the biggest St George’s Cross on display in the country and likely the world.Measuring an enormous 60ft by 26ft, the English flag covers most of the historic building.Speaking on the addition to the city, the Nottingham councillor said: "It’s just a flag and not particularly anything that has a lot of heritage. I think that there are far more interesting local and national historical events to look back on and reflect upon, particularly with Nottingham’s history as a rebel city."Nottingham City Council leader Neghat Khan told GB News: "Nottingham’s 60-foot flag has once again been unfurled on the Council House in preparation for St George’s Day. "It has become a regular fixture in the city, appearing every year to celebrate St George’s Day. "Nottingham holds the largest St George's flag in the country, and we will continue to fly it with pride on days of national celebration."Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
The entitled few are making life miserable for teachers who just want to get on with their jobs
Teachers across various regions are facing increasing challenges from a minority of disruptive individuals, making it difficult for educators to focus on their core responsibilities. These entitled few, often parents or community members, are reportedly undermining teachers’ authority and creating a hostile environment within schools. The growing tension is impacting the morale and effectiveness of teaching staff, who strive to provide quality education despite these obstacles. The issue stems from a combination of heightened expectations and a lack of respect for professional boundaries. Some parents and community members have been accused of overstepping their roles, questioning teaching methods, and demanding undue concessions, which complicates the educational process. This behavior not only disrupts classroom dynamics but also places additional stress on teachers, who must navigate these conflicts alongside their teaching duties. Educational experts warn that such interference can have long-term consequences for both teachers and students. When educators feel unsupported or threatened, their ability to maintain discipline and foster a positive learning environment diminishes. Furthermore, the erosion of trust between schools and families can hinder collaborative efforts essential for student success. Addressing this issue requires clear communication, mutual respect, and policies that protect teachers’ professional integrity. The broader context includes ongoing debates about education standards, parental involvement, and the pressures faced by teachers in an evolving social landscape. As schools adapt to new challenges, including technological changes and diverse student needs, the role of teachers remains critical. Ensuring they can work without undue interference is vital for maintaining educational quality and supporting the development of future generations.
Dad 'disgusted' by letter from high school asking parents for financial help
A parent at Poynton High School has expressed strong disapproval after the school sent a letter to parents requesting voluntary financial contributions to support enrichment activities, resources, and wider opportunities for students. The letter highlighted ongoing financial pressures faced by schools nationally, noting that Cheshire East schools receive significantly less funding than the national average despite similar costs. The school also sought business sponsorships for sports kits and specific activities, reflecting broader funding challenges within the True Learning Partnership multi-academy trust. Steve Hardicre, a parent and education professional, criticized the government for what he described as a failure to adequately fund schools, calling the letter a "complete desertion of responsibility." He argued that the government must increase funding and take serious control of academy trust wages, which he claims are inflated by executives who contribute little to student progress. Hardicre emphasized the need for full funding of pay rises for teachers and teaching assistants to restore market-value salaries and attract quality educators, warning that without such investment, the education system faces long-term decline. Hardicre also highlighted the broader financial context, including the impact of Brexit on public finances, and called on political leaders to address these issues more seriously. His concerns reflect growing frustration among parents and educators over funding shortfalls that affect school resources and student opportunities. The letter from Poynton High School underscores the increasing reliance on parental contributions and external sponsorships to bridge budget gaps, a trend seen in many schools across the country amid tightening public education budgets. This situation raises important questions about the sustainability of current funding models for schools, particularly academies, and the role of government oversight in ensuring equitable and adequate financial support. The debate over academy trust governance and executive pay adds another layer to ongoing discussions about how best to allocate resources to maximize educational outcomes.
Snacking at specific time increases risk of constipation and diarrhoea
A recent study has found that late-night snacking combined with high stress levels significantly increases the risk of bowel problems such as constipation and diarrhoea. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and discovered that individuals with high allostatic load scores—indicating chronic stress—who consumed at least 25% of their daily calories after 9 p.m. were 1.7 times more likely to experience these digestive issues. Additional analysis of more than 4,000 people from the American Gut Project showed that stressed individuals who snacked late at night were 2.5 times more likely to suffer from bowel problems. The study highlights the importance of not only what people eat but also when they eat, especially for those under stress. Lead author Dr. Harika Dadigiri from New York Medical College emphasized that late eating may deliver a “double hit” to gut health by disrupting digestive function in stressed individuals. The findings suggest that maintaining structured meal times and consistent eating patterns could help mitigate these risks and support better digestive health. Experts recommend that people adopt regular meal routines to avoid the negative impact of irregular eating habits on the gut. While the study does not discourage enjoying snacks like ice cream, it suggests consuming such foods earlier in the day to reduce potential harm. These insights contribute to a growing understanding of how lifestyle factors, including stress and meal timing, influence gastrointestinal health. The research will be presented at Digestive Disease Week in Chicago, underscoring the ongoing interest in the relationship between diet, stress, and digestive disorders. This study adds to the broader conversation about the importance of holistic approaches to managing gut health through both dietary choices and behavioral habits.
Wales breaking news plus weather and traffic updates (Thursday, April 23)
Cardiff City fans celebrated their team’s promotion back to the Championship with enthusiasm during their first home game against Port Vale. The promotion was secured after a 3-1 victory over Reading and a last-minute draw between Exeter and Stockport, which confirmed Cardiff’s return to the higher league. Supporters, who had previously been unable to celebrate at Cardiff City Stadium due to restrictions, finally gathered in large numbers to enjoy the match and pay tribute to lifelong fan Dai Hunt. The warm spring weather added to the festive atmosphere as fans displayed banners, flags, and scarves in support of the team. The promotion marks a significant achievement for Cardiff City, reigniting excitement among the club’s fanbase and boosting morale ahead of the new season. The victory and subsequent celebrations highlight the strong community spirit surrounding the club, which has faced challenges in recent years. The return to the Championship is expected to bring increased attention and financial opportunities for the club, as well as heightened competition on the field. In other news, Wales experienced bright and sunny weather with temperatures reaching up to 20°C, according to the Met Office forecast. While the day remained pleasant, temperatures were expected to drop overnight, with patchy cloud, mist, and frost in some areas. The lighter winds compared to the previous day contributed to the warmer daytime conditions, offering an ideal setting for outdoor activities and events across the region. This combination of sporting success and favorable weather has created a positive mood in Wales, with residents and visitors alike encouraged to enjoy the spring conditions. The ongoing coverage of local news and updates continues to keep the public informed about developments across Wales and beyond.
Watch: BBC goes undercover at mini-mart selling drugs
A BBC undercover investigation has revealed that cocaine and cannabis are being openly sold in mini-marts across the West Midlands, including a shop called Cradley Market. Researchers posing as customers were quickly offered drugs, with one employee, Akwa, supplying 3.5 grams of cannabis for £30 within seconds and later providing cocaine. When confronted by the BBC’s UK Editor, Akwa denied any involvement in drug sales and asked the team to leave. The investigation highlights the ease with which illegal drugs are accessible in local retail outlets, raising concerns about the role of such businesses in facilitating organized crime. The Home Office has responded by stating it is collaborating with police, the National Crime Agency (NCA), and Trading Standards to take stringent action against these criminal enterprises. West Midlands Police also emphasized their commitment to working with partners to address complaints related to illegal drug sales, anti-social behavior, and crime. This undercover report sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing drug distribution at the community level. The presence of drugs in everyday shops not only endangers public health but also contributes to wider social issues such as crime and disorder. The government’s response signals an intent to strengthen enforcement measures and protect communities from the impact of illicit drug trade. The findings come amid broader national efforts to tackle organized crime and drug trafficking, which remain persistent problems in many UK towns and cities. The investigation underscores the need for vigilance and cooperation between authorities and local businesses to disrupt illegal activities and maintain safer public spaces.
Woman left furious by Littleborough building site 'filth' takes drastic action
A resident of Littleborough took direct action after becoming frustrated with the dust and debris caused by construction activity at a nearby building site. Carran O’Grady, who lives on Hollingworth Road opposite a 309-home development approved last year, blocked construction vehicles from accessing the site after her car, front windows, and porch were repeatedly covered in dust and dirt. The move caused traffic congestion but was prompted by her attempts to seek respect and consultation from the developers, Bloor Homes, who had previously assured her they would manage the impact. O’Grady, who has lived in her home since 2003 and works from home, said she was not opposed to the new housing but felt compelled to act as the situation worsened. She described the dust and debris as a daily problem, with rocks falling off vehicles posing safety risks. Despite raising concerns, she felt the issue was not adequately addressed, with some parties suggesting the local council should handle the cleanup. Bloor Homes has since engaged with O’Grady to address the mess and her grievances. The development, located near Hollingworth Lake, a valued local landmark, has been controversial within the community. O’Grady’s experience highlights broader concerns about the impact of large-scale construction projects on residents’ quality of life. Local councillor Tom Besford has also contacted Bloor Homes to seek solutions, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance development with community welfare. This incident underscores the challenges faced by residents living near major construction sites and raises questions about how developers and local authorities manage environmental and safety impacts. As Littleborough continues to grow, the case may serve as a cautionary example of the need for better communication and mitigation measures to protect neighbouring communities.
High Street mini-marts selling cocaine, cannabis and prescription drugs, BBC secret filming reveals
A BBC undercover investigation has revealed that mini-marts on UK High Streets are openly selling illegal drugs including cocaine, cannabis, laughing gas, and prescription pills. The secret filming took place across four neighbouring towns in the West Midlands, where drug sales were readily offered to undercover researchers. One street was described as "lawless," with nearby legitimate businesses reporting intimidation by gangs and witnessing knife and gun violence. The investigation also identified over 70 shops across the country, from Devon to Northern Ireland, linked to the sale of drugs such as crystal meth and heroin. The findings highlight a growing problem of criminal exploitation of small retail outlets, which law enforcement agencies and trading standards bodies say are being used as a foothold for organised crime. The National Crime Agency (NCA) and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) have expressed concern over the scale of the issue. In response, Liam Byrne, chair of the Business and Trade Committee and a senior Labour MP, has called for urgent government action, stating that organised crime must be tackled to restore safety and trust on High Streets. West Midlands Police confirmed their commitment to working with partners to address complaints related to illegal drug sales and associated crime. The Home Office also stated it is collaborating with police, the NCA, and Trading Standards to take strong action against criminal businesses. The investigation included test purchases, with one undercover researcher successfully buying cocaine and cannabis from a mini-mart in Cradley Heath, a town described by a whistleblower as being under the control of drug gangs along a 300-metre stretch of its High Street. This investigation sheds light on the challenges faced by communities and law enforcement in combating the infiltration of organised crime into everyday retail environments. The presence of drugs in seemingly legitimate shops not only fuels local drug markets but also contributes to wider social harms, including violence and intimidation, undermining public safety and economic vitality in affected areas.