Latest news with #RoyalNationalInstituteofBlindPeople
Metro
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Famous comedian 'honoured' after landing role in EastEnders after 37 years
Comedian Shazia Mirza has revealed her recent EastEnders guest stint was 37 years in the making. The star made her debut as Walford Hospital's Dr Ayub in May, returning for a further episode this week. When Peter Beale (Thomas Law) and Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) went to hear the results of their newborn son Jimmy's genetic test results, they were given somewhat of a reassuring update on his visual impairment. The Doctor told the fractured couple that his condition had been caused as a result of a random mutation, and not Lauren's drug abuse as originally suspected. Peter offered a weak apology to his fiancée for blaming her, but the two later fully reconciled after seeing the heartbreak they were causing eldest son Louie. Taking to Instagram, Shazia, who has also appeared on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins and Celebrity MasterChef, wrote that finally landing a role in her favourite soap has been an 'honour'. '37 years ago I wrote to @bbceastenders asking for a part and 37 years later I got one,' she wrote. 'EastEnders is working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on a storyline where Lauren and Peter's son is diagnosed as severely sight impaired.' She then continues to summarise recent episodes of the BBC serial drama, catching up her 156,000 followers on the events. Shazia concluded: 'It has been an honour to be part of such an important storyline.' Alongside her statement, she included a picture of a letter that was sent to her from the EastEnders secretary in January 1988. 'Dear Miss Mirza,' it begins. 'Thank you very much for your letter. We get so many young people wanting parts in EastEnders, that it is our policy to have to say no. Want to be the first to hear shocking EastEnders spoilers? Who's leaving Coronation Street? The latest gossip from Emmerdale? Join 10,000 soaps fans on Metro's WhatsApp Soaps community and get access to spoiler galleries, must-watch videos, and exclusive interviews. Simply click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! Don't forget to turn on notifications so you can see when we've just dropped the latest spoilers! 'We are obliged to use only Equity members in the making of EastEnders. We are sorry we have not been able to assist you, but hope you will continue to enjoy the programme.' More Trending It certainly shows never to give up on your dreams! Thomas Law commented: 'And you legitimately played your part so so well. We thought it.' View More » Fellow comedian Shappi Khorsandi added: 'Oh my! I LOVE that you wrote asking for a part!!! This is beautiful! Congratulations (and also, a part on Eastenders has always been my dream but thankfully I am hiding my jealousy-to-the-point-of-insanity pretty well).' If you've got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@ – we'd love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage. MORE: All 73 EastEnders spoiler pictures for next week as two major characters return MORE: Gregg Wallace 'banned from BBC' as scathing letter of dismissal revealed MORE: EastEnders star Frank Barrie dies aged 88 as tributes are paid
Daily Record
19-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Edinburgh unveils floral clock for 2025 celebrating 200 years of braille
The floral clock, made with over 35,000 plants, took six weeks to complete and blooms until October Edinburgh's Lord Provost Robert Aldridge has officially unveiled this year's floral clock in West Princes Street Gardens. The colourful timepiece is a vibrant tribute marking 200 years of braille and celebrating the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). The iconic clock, crafted with over 35,000 flowers and plants, took three gardeners six weeks to complete. Featuring species such as antennaria, crassula, echeveria, sedum, saxifrage, and annuals like pyrethrum, begonias and geraniums, the colourful display will bloom until October. Joined by RNIB representatives and visually impaired community members, Mr Aldridge expressed hope that the design would inspire reflection on the vital role braille plays in the lives of those who use it. The capital's Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: "Seeing the floral clock take shape is a wonderful annual tradition and this year doesn't disappoint, with a beautiful display in honour of a worthwhile cause. "The RNIB provides essential support to blind and visually impaired people, and in 2025 they mark a real milestone with the 200th anniversary of braille. I hope the clock's design will give people pause to reflect on just how important braille is to all those to use it. "Thanks to the hard-working parks team who have spent the past six weeks creating the clock, which will be enjoyed by many thousands of people throughout summer." The RNIB, the UK's leading charity for sight loss, supports blind and partially sighted individuals along with their families and carers. This year, it marks the bicentenary of braille, the tactile six-dot code that revolutionised literacy and communication for people with sight loss. James Adams, director of RNIB Scotland, described it as a great honour for the organisation to be featured. 'It marks the 200th anniversary of the invention of braille which opened up opportunity for blind and partially sighted people to be able to access the written word, and with that came the liberation of being able to also receive information that is taken for granted by wider society,' he said. 'Braille is a system that endures, and continues to transform the lives of blind and partially sighted people, offering them privacy, independence, and opportunity.' "Therefore, we are delighted to have Braille200 so prominently marked in the heart of Edinburgh and give everyone the opportunity to celebrate braille and include accessibility in their lives." The floral clock has a rich heritage, first created in 1903 by Edinburgh Parks superintendent John McHattie, making it the oldest of its kind in the world. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Initially featuring just an hour hand, a minute hand was added in 1904, followed by a cuckoo clock in 1952. It was mechanically operated and wound daily until 1972. Since 1946, the clock's designs have honoured numerous organisations and figures, including the Girl Guides Association, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Queen Elizabeth II for her Golden Jubilee. In its centenary year, 2003, it won a gold medal at the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show.
Daily Mirror
07-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Even my kids stopped saying "I'm bored" on this school trip for families'
Whether you have a family that likes to be on-the-go, or you're a parent who'd love to be on your child's school trip – or even if you struggle to think of ways to tire the kids out in the holidays – this grand old building could be just right for you, Usually a destination for residential school trips, former manor house JCA Condover Hall in the Shropshire countryside also opens its doors in school holidays for active families to stay for two, three or four nights, leaving screens behind and taking part in loads of activities. My husband Rob and I have three high-energy children and enjoy a challenge ourselves, so when I heard about JCA's Family Adventure holidays, I was keen to give them a go. Our children range from five to 12 years old so finding something to keep all entertained can be difficult. But when I discovered Condover Hall offers activities ranging from abseiling to axe throwing (over eights only), via a Mission Impossible-style laser assault course, I knew the usual holiday choruses of 'I'm bored!' would be unlikely to follow us here. Once we had settled into our rooms and had lunch, we were introduced to instructor Skip, who looked after us on all the activities throughout our stay. He was knowledgeable, patient and encouraging, and by the second day the kids were treating him as part of the family. Accommodation is in modern blocks close to the old manor house, which were fairly no frills, but clean and comfortable, with tea, coffee, toiletries and towels provided. Our block had a lounge with sofas and a TV downstairs, but we didn't use it much as we were far too busy with all the activities. Meals are served canteen style, with a good amount of choice, plenty of salad and fruit with every meal, and all dietary requirements catered for. There is an indoor heated pool that families can book to use for an hour in the evenings, and also a bar with plenty of games to keep the kids happy while the grown-ups enjoy a relaxing drink once the activities are complete. The staff were all really friendly and because they are used to welcoming school groups, they were all brilliant with the children. Manager Fi made sure we had everything we needed and answered all our questions, including lots about the history of Condover Hall. The manor house was built in 1598 for Thomas Owen, a judge and politician in the reign of Elizabeth I. He died before it was completed and it passed to his son Roger, whose initials can be seen on the grand fireplace in what is now the reception area. In the nearby churchyard are tombstones and commemorative sculptures for some of Thomas and Roger's descendants, telling the stories of their lives and deaths. During the mid-20th century, the property was bought by the Royal National Institute of Blind People for use as a residential school and has also been used as a school for autistic children. JCA bought the property in 2010 and, after a huge refurbishment, it has been welcoming groups on activity holidays since 2011. And our family verdict? When asked what her favourite activity was, Hazel, five, said: 'I enjoyed swimming the most. And the zip wire. And Grid of Stones because everyone was a team. And the food, especially the lasagne. I learned that the safety rope can hold an elephant, so it can definitely hold me.' Sam, 10, said: 'My favourite activity was the aerial trek. I went round four times. The climbing was good too. And the food was yummy.' Libby, 12, added: 'My favourite activity was the aerial trek as me and Daddy were having a competition over who could go round fastest. The staff were all really nice and made sure everyone was included and having fun.' And Rob, 43, was at least as enthusiastic as the kids – particularly about the axe throwing – and is already angling to go back. My favourite thing was spending so much time with the family and seeing the kids challenge themselves and come away beaming, eyes sparkling as they achieved more than they thought they could. I would thoroughly recommend JCA Condover Hall to any family that likes their holidays adventurous and packed with fun.
Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Jacqueline Jossa on 'strange connection' during devastating EastEnders storyline
Jacqueline Jossa has opened up about Lauren Branning's upcoming storyline in BBC's EastEnders - which sees her find out that her newborn son Jimmy is severely sight impaired Jacqueline Jossa has revealed all about the tough times to come for her character Lauren Branning and her partner Peter Beale, and her "strange" connection with Linda Carter. The BBC soap recently revealed they were working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on an upcoming storyline where Lauren and Peter's find out their newborn son Jimmy is severely sight impaired. EastEnders spoilers reveal that in coming episodes, an "overwhelmed" Lauren grows convinced something isn't right with her baby son Jimmy. Elsewhere, her family also grow concerned when her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she's relapsed after her painkiller addiction. Lauren then takes Jimmy to the hospital after noticing something wrong with his eyes and when a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired. Speaking on how her character feels after the diagnosis, Jacqueline said: "I think it's a real mix of emotions. The unknown is a scary place to be, and there is an element of knowing, that softens Lauren's anxiety. She finally feels like she wasn't going crazy, because everyone made her feel that way. "The reassurance of 'you were right' helps her process. Lauren knows that there is a new journey they are about to embark on and pretty quickly Lauren jumps in headfirst into the new journey and sort of takes it in her stride." Although Jac said it "wasn't going to be an easy journey" for Lauren, she said that her motherly love overcomes the guilt she feels. "She is determined to be there for Jimmy every step of the way." Elsewhere, at the start of next week, Lauren receives an "important" pep talk from Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) who reassures Lauren after having a similar journey with addiction - as Jacqueline called the connection "strange in a sense." Speaking on the budding relationship, she said: "They have both shown each other the ugly side of themselves, and on the Square, Linda is a little bit of a mother figure for Lauren in the sense that she can look up to her, and confide in her. It's almost strange in a sense, but it's a really beautiful relationship and I'm glad that it's her that comes to Lauren's rescue. "It's the first time all week that she feels heard, and that she feels seen. It's the first time Lauren is being agreed with."
Daily Mirror
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
EastEnders spoilers - Fears for Stacey and baby Jimmy's life-changing diagnosis
EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater's loved ones are deeply concerned after worrying scenes on the BBC soap, while there's also an emotional storyline for baby Jimmy There's some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week according to the new spoilers. Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break from the BBC soap later this year. There's also concern for Lauren Branning as she grows convinced something isn't right with her baby son Jimmy. But when she rushes him to the hospital, her and her family are rocked by a diagnosis. Also next week there's news from former character Whitney Dean as Zack Hudson takes action after threats from Nicola Mitchell. It's a big week in Walford, with some highly emotional twists and turns. One of the big storylines of the week is baby Jimmy's diagnosis, with the soap confirming he will be diagnosed as severely sight impaired. When Lauren grows concerned for her newborn baby son, her panicked behaviour leaves partner Peter Beale and their family worried she might be struggling. When her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she's relapsed after her painkiller addiction. Prior to this, Lauren is struggling with her baby boy and is convinced something isn't right with Jimmy. She's urged to investigate, but her health visitor is soon telling Peter that Lauren may be experiencing symptoms of post-natal depression. As tensions rise, there's a worrying moment when Lauren notices something concerning when looking at Jimmy's eyes. Struggling to get an appointment with the doctor she heads to the hospital and demands to be seen. Lauren's midwife calls Peter who joins them at the hospital, and soon Lauren's fears are taken seriously. When a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired. The soap is working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on the storyline, with the scenes set to show how the diagnosis will impact Jimmy and his family as a whole. Elsewhere there's concern for grieving Stacey, as she refuses to leave her bedroom. Stacey has been in a bad way ever since her ex Martin Fowler died in the Queen Vic explosion back in February, just after he asked her to remarry him. Her daughter Lily Slater tries to cover up what's going on despite things taking their toll, but soon Stacey's loved ones find out. As Kat Slater heads to the house she is left worried by what she uncovers. She tries to take control of the situation and calls a family meeting, with Kat, Alfie, Suki and Eve planning to help with childcare, as they question whether Stacey needs professional help. As Stacey continues to hide away in her bedroom, Lily breaks down. Soon, Stacey, who is taking a break from the show, takes her first trip out of the house in weeks, but she worries Kat with her plans for a family meal. When Stacey's phone is misplaced and she realises it's in the laundry bag which is now on its way to the laundrette, she panics as she explains it contains voicemails, photos and texts from Martin and they'll be lost forever if the phone is damaged. She rushes off to find it before it's too late, and in her absence her son Arthur shocks Alfie with a secret. Meanwhile as Stacey reaches the laundrette her behaviour concerns Kat and Lily who fear she's experiencing a bipolar episode. Soon, an incident between Stacey and Lily leaves their relationship at breaking point. Also next week, it seems Nicola Mitchell will go to any lengths necessary to stop Zack from telling Barney that he's his biological father. Nicola will target Whitney it seems, as Whitney tells ex Zack that she's found a safe place for her and the girls to live, somewhere Nicola won't find them. Zack is encouraged to go and visit them, but he soon sparks concern when he plots to take Barney with him. Finally, Nigel Bates is urged to reconnect with his estranged daughter Clare to build bridges by Yolande Trueman. But she soon gets on the wrong side of him. Also Harvey Monroe is sacked by Kat after he moves on with Kathy Beale.
