Sutton Council plans to improve walking and cycling routes from train station

Sutton Council is calling for residents to give their views on a new walking and cycling scheme connecting the London Cancer Hub (LCH) with a nearby station. The plans, which will see cycling and walking routes improved from Belmont station, come as part of a £14.1m levelling up investment to transform transport in Belmont.

Belmont is the nearest station from the LCH on the Royal Marsden Hospital site. It is roughly 10 minutes from the site and currently lacks any clear walking or cycling routes.

The Sutton plans would see paths extended and resurfaced along the route leading from Belmont station to the LCH. Lighting, signage, seating and greenery will also be improved along the route.

Read more: Farmfoods to close Sutton branch within weeks as site set for redevelopment

The Oaks Cancer Centre is one of the newest building at the London Cancer Hub (Image: Facundo Arrizabalaga)

The plans were revealed by the council last December after they successfully secured the local government investment. They also follow the recent improvements made to Belmont station.

Sutton Council recently worked with Network Rail to double train services between Belmont and London Victoria from two to four trains an hour in February this year. The station has also recently welcomed step-free access.

These changes have come as part of Sutton’s wider ambition to help the LCH become the world’s leading district for cancer research and treatment. It expects that this move will bring 13,000 new jobs in health, science, education and construction to the area.

The council went to residents with an initial consultation on cycling and walkway improvement plans in November last year. Out of the 65 respondents, there was agreement that cycling infrastructure should be improved, especially down Pelton Avenue and along the busy Brighton Road.

There were also concerns raised about issues such as parking, flooding at the station and potential traffic congestion arising from the proposed pedestrian crossings. The council says it has taken this feedback on board. Residents are now encouraged to give their views in the final consultation on the plans before the deadline of midnight on September 1.

Sutton Council said: “We are seeking feedback from people working, living and travelling in and around Belmont. Our designs showcase how we would like to improve and develop the space, including seating, flowers, pathways and much more. Therefore we would like to hear from people regularly using these spaces.”

The recently appointed Leader of Sutton Council, Barry Lewis, said: “The London Cancer Hub will put Sutton and Belmont at the heart of the search for a cure for cancer. These improvements will make everyone’s journeys safer and easier. We are committed to creating a welcoming and efficient route for those travelling between Belmont Station and the LCH. This project is a key part of our strategy to support the local economy and the thousands of new job opportunities that the LCH will bring to Sutton.”

The consultation page can be found here.

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Heathrow Airport strikes planned with Border Force staff walking out for 4 days

Strikes at Heathrow Airport have been planned as Border Force staff at the West London airport are due to walk out on Saturday, August 31, over 'inflexible' working conditions. The ongoing dispute centres around new rotas being implemented that officers are claiming are harming their work-life balance.

Around 650 members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) will walk out on Saturday amid complaints that new rosters are inflexible. The staff will then work to rule and refuse to work overtime from September 4 to 22.

The union said its research showed that four in five Heathrow Border Force workers suffer from stress at work. More than one in four have taken time off due to stress or related mental health reasons since the introduction of the new rosters in April, said the union.

READ MORE: Tube strike 'cancelled' at last minute after TfL warned certain stations could close

File photo dated 29/04/24 of a sign on the picket line at Heathrow Airport. Border Force staff at Heathrow Airport will launch a four-day strike on Saturday in a long-running dispute over rosters. Issue date: Friday August 30, 2024. PA Photo. Around 650 members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) will walk out amid complaints that new rosters are inflexible. See PA story INDUSTRY Strikes. Photo credit should read: Jamel Smith/PA Wire (Image: Jamel Smith/PA Wire)

Most staff regularly worry about managing home commitments around work, according to the PCS.

General secretary Fran Heathcote said: “This survey shows how badly our members’ wellbeing is being affected by the new roster system. These inflexible rosters are preventing parents dropping off and picking up their children from school.

"Managers could easily resolve the issue by allowing greater flexibility and by agreeing fixed shifts that give our members the chance to plan their caring responsibilities.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We appreciate the tireless work that Border Force do to keep our borders safe and secure, and we are committed to continuing our conversations with the union so we can find an agreement that works for both the public and staff.

"We will have robust plans in place to minimise disruption where possible, but we urge passengers to check the latest advice from operators before they travel.”

Got a story for us? Email anna.willis@reachplc.com.

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EastEnders fans 'work out' Roxy Mitchell's return after daughter's tragic accident

EastEnders fans are speculating about the comeback of soap icon Roxy Mitchel with a twist. The character, portrayed by Rita Simons, first appeared in 2007 and quickly became a fan favourite alongside her sister Ronnie, played by Samantha Womack.

Roxy was involved in numerous major storylines, from failed marriages to becoming the landlady of the Queen Vic, ensuring her time in Albert Square was never dull.

However, in 2017, both Roxy and Ronnie were tragically written out of the show after a decade, meeting their untimely end by drowning together on Ronnie's wedding day in one of the soap's most contentious episodes.

EastEnders fans are speculating about the comeback of soap icon Roxy Mitchel with a twist (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron)

Currently, in the soap, Roxy's daughter Amy, played by Ellie Dadd, finds herself in a terrifying situation at the bar, Peggy's. Walford locals like Peter (Thomas Law) and Bobby (Clay Milner Russell) arrived at the venue and quickly realised things were spiralling out of control.

With Peggy's dangerously overcrowded and all exits blocked due to the massive crowds, panic ensued among the club-goers, including underage teenager Amy Mitchell who had sneaked in. Although the crowd eventually managed to escape, more drama unfolded as Amy was rushed into an ambulance and suffered a cardiac arrest seconds later, leading to her being hurried to hospital, reports the Daily Star.

Amy Mitchell got pushed up against in an overcrowded club (Image: BBC)

Since her hospitalisation, fans have been speculating that Amy's mother Roxy might reappear as a hallucination.

Last year, viewers saw Roxy return in a similar fashion during one of Amy's therapy sessions.

On social media platforms, such as Reddit, fans are expressing their hopes for Roxy's return. One fan commented: "I think it'd be awesome to have some more dream scenes with Amy and Roxy... that's what I am hoping for and then Amy recovers."

Will Rita Simons reprise her role once again? (Image: BBC)

Another fan speculated about the potential death of Amy's character, saying: "If the character really were to die, then I believe Rita would return for all of a minute to take her hand-in-hand into Heaven."

Discussing the likelihood of Roxy's return at a critical moment, a third fan wrote: "If Roxy appeared to her when she was struggling in a counselling session, then surely she would be on her deathbed."

They added confidently on another platform: "Amy's death brings back Roxy Mitchell, case closed thank you and goodbye."

One more viewer pondered the possibility of a ghostly cameo from Roxy, suggesting: "We'd better be getting a ghost of Roxy cameo, whilst Amy's having CPR, either telling Amy to walk with her (and Paddington) towards the light or to say it's not her time yet but they'll be together one day."

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm

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BBC EastEnders' Max Branning set for unexpected return after mention on soap

EastEnders fans are abuzz with speculation that Max Branning might make a dramatic comeback to Walford, nearly four years after his poignant departure.

In the latest episode from Wednesday (August 28), Albert Square was reeling from the aftermath of the disaster at Peggy's, which saw Amy Mitchell (played by Ellie Dadd) fighting for her life following a cardiac arrest and Lauren Branning (portrayed by Jacqueline Jossa) sustaining serious injuries.

Amidst the turmoil, Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) turned her cafe into a refuge for those affected and the emergency services, with Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris) pitching in to help. However, their conversation quickly shifted to the upcoming murder trial of Keanu Taylor, stirring up emotions.

Bernie expressed her desperation for justice for her late brother, casting suspicion on Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) despite Dean Wicks (Matt Di Angelo) being the one facing charges.

Kathy mentioned Max during Wednesday's EastEnders (Image: BBC)

"Sharon has been with Phil", Bernie said: "Yeah she has been around bad things, bad people. Maybe she tried to kill Ian because of Denny dying.", reports the Daily Star.

She continued: "Maybe she tried to kill Keanu because of the kidnapping, come on Kathy. You can't tell me that a part of you don't think it's true."

Kathy fiercely retorted: "Listen, Max started that rumour. He's a liar, and so is Dean. Look Sharon is a lot of things but she wouldn't do that."

Jake Wood's character Max Branning was written out of the iconic BBC soap EastEnders in 2021, after a memorable 15-year stint.

EastEnders fans think Max Branning is returning (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)

Max first arrived in Walford back in 2006, searching for his son, but eventually left the Square when he realised there was nothing left for him, opting to start anew abroad.

Max's fleeting romance with Linda Carter (portrayed by Kellie Bright) came to an end when she called it quits, triggering his exit from the show. The ex-couple share a daughter, Annie Carter, who is also the younger half-sister to Lauren.

After Kathy Beale mentioned Max and Lauren being in hospital, speculation among EastEnders fans has been rife about the possibility of Max making a comeback to Albert Square.

On social media platform X, one viewer speculated: "A Max mention - could he back? #Eastenders @bbceastenders."

Max Branning and Linda Carter share a daughter Annie (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes)

Another fan theorised: "#eastenders theory... so many threads cud pull Max back next week... imagine he rocks up with his new wife or something and it Chrissie! I would be so excited! ! ! ".

A third fan expressed certainty: "I'm fully convinced there will be a Max Branning return for the 40th. I just have a feeling #EastEnders."

One more viewer eagerly suggested: "Max Branning mention. BRING HIM BACK! #EastEnders".

EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer

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'I tried London's 'best pizza' that is so popular I had to go twice to get a table'

A vampire-themed pizzeria in North London is a popular hangout for vamps and pizza lovers alike and serves pizzas black, "just like our souls". Lost Souls Pizza on Eversholt Street, in Euston, packs a punch on arrival with its ghoulish wreaths and soundtrack of indie rock.

But a roster of fine pizzas, each served on a suitably spooky charcoal base, plus cheese - great, thick dollops of it - and a secret spicy sauce, proves this eatery is no gimmick. It's a short walk from Mornington Crescent Underground Station to Lost Souls Pizza, which, besides its blood-dribbling shop sign and hanging undead revenant in the window, fits in well with the other storefronts in Euston.

"Best pizza in London" and "London's best happy hour" reads a sign. And boy is it popular. I first try to go earlier on the Bank Holiday weekend and the place is full. And so it is on Monday night I'm back again, booking in tow, the first customer in the restaurant.

READ MORE : 'I went to Fred Siriex's favourite London tapas restaurant and now understand why he visits weekly'

Lost Souls Pizza on Eversholt Road, Euston, says it is the world's first vampire-themed pizzeria

With its red table lights, black, fringed lampshades, and other light covers with skeletal fingers dangling at the edge, it's a strangely cosy atmosphere, and the dining tables are sensibly clear. Lost Souls Pizzeria has a good selection of beers - including its own-brand black lager 'Nosfera Brew' at £7 a pint, and alcohol-free options.

The cocktails also have a touch of the night; Stranger Tings (£9.50) is made up of Tequila, lime, tabasco and ting. Deathspresso Martini (£12) is a mix of vodka, Kahlua and coffee, while White Trash Reviver (£9.50) comprises "Smirnoff ice, topped up with absinthe... totally a thing".

Lost Souls Pizza caters to meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike. Its selection of small plates has the basics you might expect - macaroni cheese, meatballs, chips and dips. But there are some interesting options, Lost Souls Salad (£9) a toss-up of roasted peppers, grilled artichokes, cherry tomatoes and basil oil; and Dough Bites (£6.50) with black charcoal doughballs, and "bloody good" ragu.

Plenty of choice on three different pizza menus

On to main courses; there are no fewer than three pizza menus. For meat eaters, there's the "Black Charcoal Pizza Menu", with options such as You Killed Marco Polo (£16) chicken, roasted peppers, onion and oregano; and Crust Till Balls (£18) meatballs, rocket and parmesan. For vegans, the "Black Charcoal Vegan Pizza Menu" offers up The Empress (£16) vegan protein, peppers, red onion and oregano; and The Coffin Dodger (£14.50) pickled mushrooms, artichoke, broccoli and rocket.

Lost Souls has a cosy atmosphere with its red table lights, black, fringed lampshades, and other light covers with skeletal fingers dangling at the edge

A third pizza menu, Black Pentagram Pizzas, can be served vegetarian or vegan. Options include Jack Skelly (£19) made up of butternut squash, goat's cheese, sundried tomatoes, red onion and balsamic pentagram; and Taco Hell (£19) with 'no-rizo', jalapenos, corn chips and blue cheese pentagram.

Being a carnivore, I opt for meatballs - served in a pot with a spicy red sauce and a top layer of cheese; and Pops Go To Pizza (£17) made up of sausage, broccoli and parmesan. It's served with a black pizza base that looks almost volcanic, made with a pinch of vegetable charcoal to the dough, and it has a surprising light taste. The toppings are every bit as indulgent and my eyes don't beat my stomach to finish every last slice.

It's a fun place to hang out, with posters on the wall of Christopher Lee's Dracula and Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, and pulp art in each of the venue's three dining rooms. As customers pile in, most of them wearing dark or goth clothing in one way or another, I quickly stand out with my undyed hair. Music veers from Pearl Jam, Marilyn Manson to No Doubt, and I suspect for most of the young regulars, the 90s is more of a vibe than a memory.

Even a trip to the loo has its sights. Here, the ancient pastime of doodling graffiti on toilet walls is elevated to a full-blown art, with every tile carefully scribbled on. It's fair to say many of the messages are left-leaning and reflect the community that's built around Lost Souls. "Protect trans rights" and "Goonies never die" are imprinted on tiles. More prominently, "F*** the Tories" is spelt out in block capitals across several. But whatever your tribe, the food doesn't lie and it's a pizzeria for the many, not the few.

Lost Souls Pizza on Eversholt Street is open from 5pm to 10pm on Monday to Thursday, 5pm to 11pm on Fridays, and from 12pm to 11pm on Saturdays and 1pm to 10pm on Sundays. Booking is recommended on weekends, particularly the evenings. For more information or to book online, visit lostsoulspizza.com.

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EastEnders icon 'to return' as fans predict shock prison twist for Keanu murder

EastEnders fans are speculating that a beloved character could be heading for jail in an unexpected murder plot twist.

One fan even suggested this could pave the way for the return of a former villain, following news that a cast member is set to reprise their role after a long absence.

A recent trailer for upcoming episodes of the BBC soap hinted at Dean Wicks (played by Matt Di Angelo) facing trial during Keanu Taylor's (Danny Walters) murder case.

The Six, who have been at the centre of the drama, find their secrets under threat, eight months after Keanu's murder.

Linda killed Keanu to protect Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) on Christmas Day and the women concealed the crime by burying Keanu's body.

Keanu's murder trial is set to get underway

When the body was discovered, the women, with the assistance of a few residents who knew the truth, continued to hide their crimes.

Dean was subsequently framed for the murder as he caused problems for several residents and has been in jail ever since.

In the trailer, Dean can be heard proclaiming his innocence while the guilty women attend court to learn his fate.

As they confront the possibility of their guilt being exposed, it all hinges on whether Dean will be imprisoned or released as he departs from the show, reports the Mirror.

Could Sharon find herself behind bars?

However, a new theory suggests that he might be set free and someone else could end up behind bars. Viewers believe that neither Dean nor killer Linda will be the ones sent to prison, suggesting that one of The Six might confess.

As speculation mounts over a dramatic twist in EastEnders, fans reckon that Sharon could end up behind bars for Keanu's murder, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter with Chrissie Watts (Tracy-Ann Oberman) years after Chrissie's notorious deed.

The rumour mill is churning with theories about Sharon getting framed or even taking the fall to protect Linda, propelling Sharon and Chrissie into a sensational reunion in prison.

Keanu was murdered on Christmas Day

Over on X, viewers are dishing out their thoughts, with one saying: "What if the twist is Sharon says SHE killed Keanu to save Linda and gets locked up, which causes Kathy to have a breakdown... because she feels like she's broken her promise to Angie?"

Meanwhile, another adds to the frenzy: "Omg, what if Sharon goes to jail and Chrissie is there."

Commenting on the trailer, one fan wrote: "I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS."

Someone else added "Omg I am so excited this is going to be incredible i just know it roll on the drama!!!!!!"

"Finally a reason actually worth watching! The Six are back as the main focus," said another fan.

EastEnders is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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Notting Hill Carnival stabbing prompts Met Police to issue stop and search order

A young man has been stabbed at Notting Hill Carnival today (Sunday) with 38 arrests made at day one of the event. The Met has also said officers recovered four knives so far.

Now, a Section 60 has been authorised for the Carnival area, which is in place up until 2am on Monday morning. This order gives officers greater search powers to prevent violence and the authority to order face coverings to be removed.

The victim is in his twenties, with police saying that his injuries are non life-threatening.

READ MORE: Met Police warns of 'difficult' Notting Hill Carnival policing but says it's 'very best of London'

A spokesperson on the Met Police wrote on X: "While the majority at today's event have come to enjoy themselves, a number of people regrettably have not. Officers have so far made 38 arrests and have recovered four knives. A man believed to be in his 20s has been stabbed. His injuries are not life-threatening.

"In light of the seizures of knives and the stabbing above, a Section 60 has been authorised for the Carnival area from 6.05pm to 2am. A Section 60 gives officers greater search powers to prevent further violence. A Section 60AA order has been authorised in the Carnival area for the same period.

"It gives officers the power to order the removal of face coverings being used to conceal a person's identity. Anyone refusing such an order can be arrested."

The exact location of the stabbing has not been revealed. The Met has 7,000 officers deployed in the Carnival area to manage crowds and respond to any incidents. Commander Charmain Brenyah, who is leading policing for the Carnival, told MyLondon earlier this week the event presents a 'difficult' challenge due to the sheer volume of people in attendance.

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