Majority of family court cases in England and Wales feature domestic abuse, watchdog says

If you're looking for a new home surrounded by nature, this article showcases some beautiful properties for sale near arboretums and botanic gardens in England and Wales. From a charming house near RHS Garden Wisley to a stylish flat right across from Kew Gardens in London, these listings highlight the perfect blend of urban living and natural beauty. It's a great opportunity for anyone who values green spaces and wants to enjoy the tranquility of gardens right at their doorstep.

England delivered a stunning performance against Wales, securing a decisive 3-0 lead within the first 20 minutes of the match. This friendly showcased the significant gap in skill between the two teams, as highlighted by Wales manager Craig Bellamy. The victory not only reinforces England's dominance in football but also boosts team morale ahead of upcoming challenges, making it a crucial moment for players and fans alike.

In an exciting international friendly, England triumphed over Wales with a convincing 3-0 victory at Wembley. This match not only showcased England's strong performance but also served as a crucial preparation for upcoming competitions. Fans were treated to a display of skill and teamwork, reinforcing England's status as a formidable team in international football.

Landlords are expressing skepticism about the government's new licensing proposals aimed at allowing pubs to stay open later. They argue that these changes won't alleviate the financial strain caused by rising costs and reduced consumer spending. With many drinkers opting to stay home due to economic pressures, industry leaders are calling for more substantial support to help pubs navigate these challenging times. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing struggles within the hospitality sector and the need for effective solutions.

Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, has announced that the upcoming Welsh parliament elections in 2026 will likely be a contest primarily between his party and Reform UK. He emphasizes that this election will focus on contrasting visions for Wales rather than on the issue of independence. This prediction is significant as it highlights the political landscape in Wales and the potential for a shift in voter priorities, making it a crucial moment for both parties.

Hate crimes based on race and religion have surged in England and Wales for the first time in three years, according to police records. This rise is concerning as it highlights ongoing societal issues related to intolerance and discrimination. Understanding the factors behind this increase is crucial for communities and policymakers to address the root causes and promote a more inclusive society.

In a surprising turn, Emma Brockes shares her newfound appreciation for homeschooling as more parents in England choose to opt out of the traditional education system. While she initially thought she could never embrace this approach, the idea of 'wellbeing days' for children has piqued her interest. This trend reflects a growing movement among parents seeking alternative educational paths, highlighting the importance of mental health and personalized learning experiences for kids. It's a conversation worth having as society re-evaluates what education should look like.

The NHS waiting list in England has reached a concerning 7.41 million patients as of the end of August, marking the third consecutive month of increases. This rise in waiting times is alarming as it highlights ongoing challenges within the healthcare system, affecting timely access to necessary treatments for many individuals. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the care they need without undue delays.

Thomas Tuchel believes that England should embrace their underdog status heading into the 2026 World Cup. He argues that by shedding the weight of high expectations, the team can perform better. Tuchel emphasizes that he is focused on building a cohesive unit rather than just gathering talented players, which could lead to a more effective and united squad. This perspective is significant as it encourages a mindset shift for both players and fans, potentially leading to a more relaxed and confident approach in the tournament.

The UK government is considering extending the opening hours for pubs, clubs, and restaurants in England and Wales as part of a strategy to revitalize the struggling hospitality sector. While this initiative aims to enhance the British nightlife experience and stimulate economic growth, it has faced backlash from health experts who warn about the potential for increased alcohol-related disorder. This move highlights the ongoing tension between economic recovery efforts and public health concerns.

In a tragic incident last week, Jihad al-Shamie was shot dead by police during a violent attack at a synagogue in northwest England, where he claimed allegiance to the Islamic State group. This attack resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including one who was accidentally shot by police while trying to secure the building. This event highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing such acts of violence.

The rebel R360 rugby league is facing significant challenges after major unions announced that players who join the league will be ineligible for national teams. This decision has left senior figures in the rugby community believing that the league is effectively dead unless it can negotiate terms with the top rugby nations. The lack of sanctioning from World Rugby further complicates the situation, highlighting the difficulties the league faces in gaining legitimacy and support from the broader rugby world.

Recent drone and missile strikes in Kyiv have led to widespread power outages and tragically resulted in the death of a seven-year-old in southeastern Ukraine. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict's devastating impact on civilians and infrastructure, raising concerns about safety and stability in the region.

Prince William was visibly moved during a recent event where a widow shared her heartbreaking story about her husband's suicide. In response to the growing need for mental health support, his foundation is stepping up by donating £1 million to establish a suicide prevention network. This initiative is crucial as it aims to provide resources and support for those struggling with mental health issues, highlighting the importance of community and awareness in preventing such tragedies.

In a significant political shift, Australian MPs Allegra Spender and Sophie Scamps have resigned from a parliamentary sports club following a ban on David Pocock, highlighting growing concerns over the club's gambling affiliations. This move follows Monique Ryan's earlier resignation, indicating a broader discontent among lawmakers regarding the club's practices. The resignations matter as they reflect a push for accountability and ethical standards in Australian politics, especially in relation to gambling influences.

In a significant political shift, Peru's Congress has voted to impeach President Dina Boluarte amid rising crime and public discontent. This decision comes after Boluarte declined to attend a crucial hearing, leading to a majority of lawmakers, including former supporters, pushing for her removal. The appointment of José Jerí as interim president marks a new chapter in Peru's governance, highlighting the urgent need for effective leadership to address the ongoing crime crisis that has plagued the nation.

As Cameroon prepares for its presidential election on Sunday, residents in the North West and South West regions are grappling with a troubling dilemma: the desire to participate in democracy versus the fear for their safety. The atmosphere is tense, with many Anglophones expressing concerns about potential violence and unrest, which could overshadow the electoral process. This situation highlights the broader challenges facing the country, where civic engagement is often met with trepidation, making this election a critical moment for both governance and community stability.

Ukrainian MP Oleg Sinyutka has raised concerns over President Zelensky's recent actions, which he believes are steering the country towards authoritarianism. The government's decision to centralize power and postpone local elections has sparked significant debate about the future of democracy in Ukraine. This situation is crucial as it could impact the political landscape and citizens' rights in the country.