Essex Freemasons delivered a county-wide programme of festive support, from care home concerts to parties for vulnerable children, showcasing their evolving community role. Discover how they're making a difference.
BCRS Business Loans has provided over £2m to 34 Welsh SMEs via the British Business Bank's Investment Fund for Wales, creating 104 jobs and safeguarding 189. Read more about the economic impact.
Get a free 24-page Brain Games for Adults magazine inside the Sunday Mercury. Packed with puzzles to boost memory and sharpen thinking, it's the perfect New Year brain workout. Pick up your copy!
Dementia is the UK's biggest killer, yet a third of cases are undiagnosed. Learn the key signs that differ from normal forgetfulness and why early action is crucial for support.
The Sunshine Fund reflects on a busy 2025 of fundraising events, from a skydive to a coastal trek, supporting disabled children across the North East. Discover their year and how to get involved for 2026.
Joanne Lewis, 57, gives up her Christmas to answer calls on Marie Curie's free support line, offering vital emotional support to those facing death and bereavement during the festive season.
SSAFA volunteers have delivered 40 Christmas hampers to veterans in South East Wales, a scheme now in its third year. The initiative provides vital festive support to the Armed Forces community.
The Junior Tour of Wales is rebranded as The John Richards Junior Tour for 2026. The three-day cycling event will feature new stages in Mid Wales, acting as a key launchpad for future stars.
As the King's Trust nears its 50th anniversary, new polling reveals deep public concern over youth joblessness in Wales. Director Sarah Jones calls for urgent collaboration to unlock potential.
Residents at Copperfield Court in Broadstairs relived their youth this Christmas thanks to personalised diecast model gifts from iconic British toy firm Corgi. Discover how nostalgia boosts wellbeing.
Reform Studio on Newcastle's Quayside is the first business backed by the new £35m North East Elevate Fund. The wellness centre will offer reformer pilates, yoga, and sound healing, creating jobs and boosting the local economy.
For the third consecutive year, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water staff have donated hundreds of toys and gifts to charities supporting families across Wales, ensuring children have a special Christmas.
New research reveals five key principles of a Mediterranean diet that could enhance brain health and reduce dementia risk, impacting over 944,000 people in the UK. Discover the simple dietary changes that could make a difference.
Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Salford receives a £100,000 Army Benevolent Fund grant to enhance dementia care, activities, and quality of life for its elderly veteran residents.
A Wrexham family will climb Morocco's 13,671ft Mt Toubkal in January to raise funds for Tŷ Gobaith, North Wales' only children's hospice. Their challenge is inspired by eight-year-old Bethan, who lives with Dravet syndrome.
Peter Andre shares an emotional update on his mother Thea's declining health from Parkinson's and dementia, fearing it could be her last Christmas. Read his touching tribute.
New research reveals a stark generational gap in readiness for dementia care, with men over 45 feeling significantly less prepared. Nationwide and Dementia UK urge those affected to seek support.
Unemployment in Wales has surged to 6.1%, affecting 94,000 people, while economic inactivity remains stubbornly high at 24.5%. Explore the latest ONS data and political reactions.
A comprehensive guide to Christmas services, carol concerts, and community events across Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey. Find times for Midnight Mass, Christingle, and festive celebrations near you.
Singer and guitarist Joe Ely has died at 78 from complications of Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's. The Texas legend toured with The Clash and The Rolling Stones. Read the full tribute.
Swansea Council leader says the authority should not fear stepping in to run bus services directly as Wales rolls out new franchising legislation, aiming for a unified, reliable network by 2027.
A teenage girl has died after a minibus carrying nine teenagers collided with a car in Tadcaster. Police have arrested a 40-year-old woman and are appealing for witnesses.
New research reveals that changes in driving habits, tracked by GPS, can detect mild cognitive impairment with 87% accuracy. Learn how this could lead to safer roads and earlier interventions.
Sam Spoors, founder of Morpeth-based Talentheads, shares her journey from corporate recruitment to building a 10-strong team. Discover her insights on sector evolution, work-life balance, and why the North East business community is second to none.
Construction work is now underway on the £50m Freshney Place redevelopment in Grimsby, set to deliver a cinema, leisure facilities and food hall by 2027.
North West business leaders give mixed reactions to Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Budget, with many warning of a lack of growth strategy and concerns over regional investment. Read the full analysis.
North East business leaders deliver a mixed verdict on Chancellor Rachel Reeves's Winter Budget, with concerns over tax freezes but optimism for regional investment.
AJP Recruitment has been named the North East's Fastest Growing Small Business of the Year. Discover how their steady, sustainable approach powered their remarkable rise.
Merry Hill announces extended Christmas shopping hours, a new North Pole Express with Santa, and a festive artisan market. Plan your visit to the West Midlands centre now!
Teesside logistics firm LV Shipping expands its North East footprint to 25,000sqft at Infinity Park, supporting new contracts and regional economic growth. Discover the details.