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Wales Online
6 days ago
- Business
- Wales Online
Ryanair baggage rule change could see passengers hit with extra £70 charge
Ryanair baggage rule change could see passengers hit with extra £70 charge Ryanair has updated its cabin baggage rules for summer 2025 and there's one rule that could catch you out if you're unprepared The summer holidays are now upon us and many Britons are desperate to escape the UK for some well-deserved sunshine and coastal tranquillity. Unfortunately there are countless airport rules that could dampen the enthusiasm before it even starts. One rule, concerning Ryanair luggage, risks creating problems for passengers at the airport if they turn up ill-prepared. It's frequently seen as travellers' biggest nightmare – being singled out by airport personnel to check their hand luggage dimensions with sizing frames just before take-off. With budget airline Ryanair passengers are permitted to take a "personal bag" free of charge though it must comply with their strict size requirements. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here . After a recent change in line with EU rules these dimensions have been increased to 40 x 30 x 20cm. If their bag surpasses these boundaries passengers face a fee as high as £70. Ryanair operates a card-only payment system at its boarding gates, which could create problems for some holidaymakers. This means that if a passenger is prepared to pay the fee, without a payment card to hand, they could be prevented from boarding with their baggage, reports Lincolnshire Live. A Ryanair spokesman told the Daily Mail: "Our bag policy is simple; if it fits in our bag sizer (which is bigger than our agreed dimensions) it gets on free of charge. Article continues below "If it doesn't fit in our bag sizer you pay a gate bag fee. As our boarding gates are cashless gate bag fees cannot be paid in cash. "These fees are paid by less than 0.1% of passengers who don't comply with our agreed bags rules. For the 99.9% of our passengers who comply with our rules we say thank you and keep flying as you have nothing to worry about." Therefore if you're travelling with Ryanair this summer it would be wise to bring a card to guarantee your holiday begins without a hitch. This warning emerges following reports that a new four-hour regulation has been implemented before the summer holidays, affecting travellers with Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, and Jet2. Following a European Union ruling, the timeframe for claiming compensation for delayed flights has been lengthened. After more than a decade of discussions it has been determined that compensation claims for short-haul flights will only be acceptable following a delay of no less than four hours, which has increased from the earlier three-hour limit. For long-distance trips travellers must endure a delay of six hours or longer before pursuing compensation. The type of delay also influences the amount of compensation granted. Article continues below A4E, which represents leading European carriers, voiced frustration. A spokesman said: "Europe has been waiting for transparent and workable passenger rights for 12 years and member states have fallen at the final hurdle to deliver [...] member states have diluted the European Commission's original proposal and introduced even more complexity."
Daily Mirror
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Over a thousand flock to Swingathon as village hosts UK's biggest taboo festival
The annual three-day 'Swingathon' event in Allington, Lincolnshire is going ahead despite local concerns about the quiet village becoming the 'swingers capital of England' Thousands of people are set to descend on a sleepy British village this weekend - but they won't be there to enjoy the charms of country life. The annual ' Swingathon ' event got underway in the village of Allington, near Grantham, Lincolnshire last night, attracting people from across the country for a three-day celebration of non-monogamous relationships. Its organisers insist that the weekend is not a ' sex festival' but instead an 'adult alternative lifestyle event', offering an array of adult-themed entertainment including play tents, pole dancing performances, hot tubs, foam parties, mobile dungeons, and games. The estimated 1,000 attendees - who have the option of camping or paying extra for a glamping spot - are charged £210 each if arriving on their own, or £250 total as a couple. But not everyone will be welcoming the hordes of swingers with open arms, as residents of Allington, a village with a population of just 7,900, have repeatedly voiced their grievances about noise and disruption caused by the event. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told Lincolnshire Live: "We're becoming known as the swinger's capital of England just because of this festival and that's not a title we want. Its mostly elderly people and families here so you can imagine them spitting their tea out when they learned we were to be the home of Swingathon. "It's usually the talk of the village, some say let consenting adults do whatever they want to do, but I know many are not pleased they have chosen here for such activities. It's just a bit seedy and sleazy isn't it? Not for me I'm afraid." To deal with the local concerns, for its fifth year the festival has moved to a more secluded spot to accommodate its growing popularity, and to head off any noise complaints. Organisers are keen to dispel some of negative perceptions about what goes on at the event, and Matthew Cole, organiser of Swingathon, said: "Contrary to some beliefs, there are no keys in bowls, seedy music, lecherous individuals or a high level of STIs amongst this community. "In fact, individuals within this community are respectful, conscientious, and more likely to practise safe sex or be regularly tested than the average person you might meet on a night out in a club. "The team are passionate about normalising the sexual freedom that alternative lifestyles provide and continue to strive against prejudice and adversity to bring the community a safe and inclusive social, play and learning space." Festivalgoers have already flocked to social media to share pictures and clips of their experiences, with many looking like they're camping at any other festival, grilling bacon after a busy first night. Others have posted pictures and videos in their outfits, some of which leave little to the imagination. Other posts from vendors show off their wares for sale, including many intended for the bedroom. In a question and answer on their social media, Swingathon explained that there is a "good mix of couples, single male and females". They add that: "Every single person is checked and verified and has provided ID to ensure the safety of all festivalgoers."
Daily Mirror
09-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
I took £10 on a day out to Britain's 'worst' seaside town – it was well spent
Despite being dubbed Britain's worst seaside town, the town continues to attract millions of visitors every year — here's what you can do with just a tenner! Skegness, a renowned coastal town that has faced its fair share of criticism over the years, was recently labelled as Britain's worst seaside town. Yet, it still draws in millions of visitors each year. Given the ongoing cost of living crisis impacting families across the UK, many are searching for budget-friendly holiday alternatives for the forthcoming summer. If you're after an economical yet entertaining escape, look no further than the sunny shores of Lincolnshire - home to the original Butlin's holiday resort. Armed with a modest £10 budget on a balmy weekday, I embarked on a journey to discover what Skegness had in store. My first port of call was The Village Church Farm Museum on Church Road South, a genuine hidden gem. Situated further inland from Skegness' primary attractions, the museum provides a peaceful environment. It houses an extensive collection of local and agricultural history spanning over 300 years, including Skegness' oldest house. Admission to the museum is complimentary, with a donation box at the entrance for those who wish to contribute, according to Lincolnshire Live, reports the Express. Around midday, I headed towards the seafront, pleased to see crowds of tourists soaking up the sun and queuing at the various fish and chip shops. I strolled along the famous Skegness Beach and wandered onto the pier while contemplating my lunch choices. When it comes to lunchtime fare in Skegness, the options are abundant. Eager to keep my spending in check, I hunted for a budget-friendly yet filling lunch and stumbled upon a large battered sausage and chips meal for just £3.80. There's an unparalleled joy in tucking into fish and chips as the sea breeze caresses your face and seagulls glide over the waves. Almost two years ago, I set out on a mission to find the cheapest ice cream in Skegness but struggled to find a 99 with a Flake for under £2. Continuing my quest this time around, the lowest price I could dig up was £2.50. Nonetheless, no trip to the seaside is complete without one, so it's a cost I'm willing to bear. With £3.70 left in my pocket, I decided to try my luck at the amusements, so I swapped £2 and started playing. Despite not winning anything, the flashing lights and cheerful noises whisked me back to my childhood. The nostalgic thrill of interacting with traditional arcade games was absolutely worth it, proving that you're never too old to enjoy such pleasures. After a splendid day in Skegness and with my budget nearly depleted, I chose a drink for the journey home. My £10 was well spent and I left with a smile plastered across my face. The trip served as a reminder that sometimes the simplest outings can be the most memorable, and you don't need to break the bank to have a good time. Additional activities in Skegness: Natureland Seal Sanctuary (prices starting at £7.20) Bottons Pleasure Beach (wristbands from £15) Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve (free) Skegness Aquarium (prices starting at £12.50) Fairy Dell paddling pool (free) Hardys Animal Farm in Ingoldmells (prices starting at £12.75)
Daily Mirror
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Major blow to Brits as iconic seaside village admits 'crippling' issue
A tiny but insatiably popular seaside village has revealed a huge shakeup to one of its most beloved attractions, urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to acknowledge the difficulties it is facing A tiny seaside village has unveiled a major shakeup directly affecting UK holidaymakers, as it confesses to a 'crippling' problem. Renowned for its 3.2-mile-long golden sandy beach, rows of flashing arcades, and stellar fish and chip shops - Ingoldmells is a vibrant, no-thrills resort that has long attracted droves of tourists. Located in the East Lindsey district of Lincolnshire, and just a stone's throw from the popular town of Skegness, this tiny village has one huge attraction: Fantasy Island. The theme park boasts over 30 rides including the stomach-churning Volcano which shoots visitors vertically into the air, as well as the Odyssey and Millennium roller coaster. For younger adrenaline-seekers, the dodgems, Sea Storm, and Rhombus Rocket are great options. Fantasy Island also hosts Europe's largest seven-day market - which sells everything from clothes to cosmetics, and delicious bakery items. "There are so many things to do at Fantasy Island!" the resort states. "Our exhilarating rides and roller coasters will test even the bravest thrill-seekers' nerves, while those looking for something more family-friendly will have plenty to choose from. We have Discovery and Adventure for the thrill seekers and Little Explorer for the little ones." However, in a huge blow for the village - Fantasy Island has confirmed it is reducing its opening hours during the quieter periods, citing industry-wide struggles. According to Lincolnshire Live, the park will now shut its rides on Mondays and Tuesdays outside of the busy summer season, although the market and arcade will remain open daily. A spokesperson from Fantasy Island told the publication: "Whilst our rides remain open every day during the summer, we have made the decision to restrict our opening outside of this peak period. This reflects the challenges currently facing the tourism and hospitality sector. "The recent budget has had a crippling effect - particularly due to increased wage costs, soaring electricity prices, and a broader lack of understanding and support for our industry. This, coupled with growing caution in consumer spending, makes it increasingly difficult to operate sustainably outside peak periods." The spokesperson called on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to acknowledge the difficulties that coastal attractions are enduring, emphasising their importance to local economies and job markets. This move follows the recent shakeup to employer national insurance contributions (NIC) which took effect in April. MP for Boston and Skegness, Richard Tice, warned the hospitality and leisure industry in the region is 'dire'. "I've just been with one of the biggest employers in Skegness, they are employing 40 less young people than they were this time last year," he said in a video posted to social media. "The knock-on effect of that for suppliers and the hoteliers, hearing of many more hotels closed, up for sale, theme parks, shut for two days a week to deal with the horrific national insurance increases. I think Rachel Reeves is in for a massive massive shock. The news on the front line in the coastal resorts in Skegness is dire." When approached by the Mirror about Ingoldmell's blow, a government spokesperson for HM Treasury did not explicitly reference the village - but insisted it was a 'pro-business government'. "Economic activity is at a record high with 500,000 more people in employment since we entered office," they said. "We are protecting the smallest businesses from the employer National Insurance rise, shielding 250,000 retail, hospitality and leisure business properties from paying full business rates and have capped corporation tax at 25 per cent - the lowest rate in the G7. We delivered a once-in-a-Parliament budget last year that took necessary decisions on tax to stabilise the public finances and fund public services, including the NHS. We are now focused on creating opportunities for businesses to compete and access the finance they need to scale, export and break into new markets." The Mirror has contacted East Lindsey District Council for comment.
Daily Mirror
18-06-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Tiny UK town hottest in Britain despite being 200 miles away from the south
As the UK braces for a 32C heatwave this weekend, many Brits will be flocking to the south coast - but the highest ever temperature recorded on the mainland is actually some 200 miles north This peaceful town surrounded by rolling countryside has surprisingly been dubbed the hottest part of Britain. The UK may be infamous for its constant drizzle and grey-cloud-weather, but the summer months are getting increasingly warmer. In fact, temperatures in London could end up exceeding those in typically sweltering parts of Europe, including Barcelona, this weekend - as Brits brace for an early summer heatwave. As previously reported, the mercury is set to surge above 30C for the first time in 2025 this week - with forecasters predicting the UK could soar to 32C in the south by Saturday. But, if you're looking for truly sizzling temperatures, the micro-climate hotspots that sprawl along England's south coast might not actually be your best shot. Almost three years ago, on July 18, 2022, the UK experienced temperatures of a whopping 40.3C - surpassing records dating all the way back to 1884. However, the scorching figure wasn't documented on the golden sandy beaches of Eastbourne - or the tropical Isle of Scilly. In fact, the intense heat was actually recorded some 200 miles north of Britain's south coast, in the sleepy town of Coningsby. Located in the East Lindsey district of Lincolnshire, the civil parish is mainly known for its RAF Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) stations, which help protect UK airspace. According to Lincolnshire Live, locals described the heat spell as 'unbearable' and like 'living in the Sahara'. Shops were temporarily closed due to the scorching temperatures and people were encouraged to remain indoors. While skeptics argued the thermometer's reading was skewed by the nearby runway that regularly sees Typhoons taking off and 'pumping considerable amounts of hot gas' into the air - the Met Office confirmed the temperature had passed its quality control testing. This includes physical inspections, as well as cross-checking of stations and sites. "These quality control measures are in accordance with the internationally-agreed World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) standards, which are required to be accepted as official records," the Met Office added. A spokesperson confirmed the scorching heat wasn't just confined to RAF Coningsby, nor was it the only weather station that recorded temperatures exceeding 40C. On the day of recording, the Met Office states there were some 'thin clouds' around the county through the afternoon, with a south-south-westerly wind of around 16mph. "Although Coningsby had the UK's all-time record high temperature [in 2022], there's no evidence to suggest it's always the hottest place in Lincolnshire," the Met Office added. "The meteorological conditions of a given day help determine where temperatures rise highest. Indeed, stations closer to more urban areas, such as Lincoln itself, will tend to see higher temperatures. "Coningsby is, however, off the immediate coastline of Lincolnshire. This means it sees less influence from easterly and northeasterly sea breezes than some other stations in Lincolnshire."
