Latest news with #UKCityofCulture
BBC News
a day ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Voices of Bradford women to be used for bus announcements
The voices of three women from Bradford will be used for announcements on board the city's bus Kaali, Humaira Bham and Olivia Wright won the BBC's New Voices Bradford competition in May 2024Their pre-recorded information about routes and stops will be used by First buses during the UK City of Culture year. Ms Kaali said: "I'm really hoping that people will leave this year thinking, wow, we are just as valued, just as special, just as exciting and have so much to offer." Ms Bham added: "I remember going to university and hearing some southern woman doing announcements on the bus, so its going to be really cool to hear a Bradfordian accent."The recordings were made in the BBC Radio Leeds studios. A total of 160 buses working on 35 routes will use operations director for West Yorkshire, Megan Hope, said: "The local accents give a genuine Bradford and Yorkshire touch to the announcements, which is a real change from the AI technology we normally use." Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Dark underbelly of UK's new City of Culture plagued by soaring unemployment, ‘spiced-up' druggies & ‘roaming XL Bullies'
CLOSED shops litter the ailing high street and "spiced up" junkies stumble around like zombies or openly inject drugs in dingy doorways. Bradford - this year's UK City of Culture - has a dark underbelly of high unemployment, petty crime and illegal substance abuse. 19 A man slouches on a bench in Bradford city centre, apparently heavily intoxicated Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Two large Bully type dogs are walked across a road without leads Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago and hopes to find work there after she qualifies Credit: NB PRESS LTD It comes after The Sun laid bare the UK's unemployment capitals, with the Labour government telling thousands of Brits: those who can work should get a job. In May, the West Yorkshire city had 26,070 people claiming unemployment benefits, a rise on not only this time last year but also the previous month. Outside of London, it's only behind Birmingham (10.6%) and Luton (7.7%) for joblessness stats. Known as the "wool capital of the world" in its Victorian boom era, it's had a sad fall from grace. Locals complain that jobs are hard to find as high street stores, banks, and pubs close. JOB CENTRE Former ventilation fitter Timmy worked on the Broadway Shopping Mall opposite the Jobcentre before he was sent to prison and lost his livelihood. 'I've gone to the Jobcentre today because I've just got out of jail and want to get back to work,' he told The Sun. 'I'm normally self-employed, I'm a skilled air conditioning ventilation fitter, but it's looking to be pretty hard finding work in Bradford at the moment. Most read in The Sun The UK's top 10 unemployment hotspots This data, compiled by the ONS, shows the percentage of people in the Claimant Count for unitary and local authorities in the UK. The Claimant Count refers to the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits, primarily Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit, who are required to seek work. Birmingham (10.6%) Newham (8.5%) Barking and Dagenham (8.5%) Haringey (8.2) Brent (8.2%) Enfield (7.8%) Luton (7.7%) Bradford (7.5%) Hackney (7.5%) Waltham Forest (7.4%) Lewisham (7.3%) Wolverhampton (7.3%) Ealing (7.2%) Sandwell (7.2%) Tower Hamlets (7.2%) Oldham 7.0 % Croydon (6.9%) Slough (6.6%) Redbridge (6.5%) Lambeth (6.5%) 'Most of my work would be away from the city anyway. I've got all my tickets, fork-lift licence, driving licence, wagon driving licence, etc. 'I'm obviously looking for work but it is not easy. 'Them lot in the Jobcentre are offering jobs on basic wages in factories and stuff, but I'm skilled and I have a trade.' More than 1 MILLION migrants are claiming Universal Credit in Britain – with majority unemployed Unemployment in Bradford represents a 7.5 per cent rate, according to the latest figures. That is an increase of 230 claimants compared to the previous month and 420 compared to May 2024. The UK unemployment rate for people aged 16+ was 4.7 per cent in March-May 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics. Darley Street Market A recent boon for Bradford is the state-of-the art Darley Street Market, which opened its doors last weekend. The new market was buzzing with vendors and customers alike during The Sun's visit, and it had a vibrant atmosphere. It also has provided work for many Bradfordians, including Demi-Leigh Turner, 24, who is delighted to be behind the counter at Jake's Bakehouse in the market having been unemployed prior to its opening. 'It's brilliant to be working there and we are really busy,' said Demi-Leigh. 'It has been hard work, there is a lot of footfall at the market, but I'm loving it. 19 The new Darley Street Market opened this month Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Demi Leigh Turner works at the market and praised the opportunities there Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 There a multiple vacant business premises in the city centre Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'This is a real success story for Bradford. Everybody in there is happy.' However, just outside the market on a street bench on Darley Street was a "spiced-up" man in a drugged-up stupor, making an upsetting and unnerving sight for shoppers and parents with young children. Up the road, towards the old Oastler Shopping Centre and Market, which is now shuttered up due to the new relocation, there are down-and-outs hanging around. Two scruffy and skeletal men were wandering the streets, roll-up in hand and accompanied by a pair of XL bully-type dogs, off their leash. Another seemingly homeless guy was trying to flog a TV to passers-by. Bradford as City of Culture 2025 Bradford was named the UK City of Culture for 2025 due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse communities and innovative spirit. The designation was given by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. It means the West Yorkshire city gains access to funding to improve its infrastructure and arts facilities, and will continue to host events until the end of the year. Bradford won their bid in May 2022, beating County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough. More than a million people have engaged with the city's Culture projects so far this year, according to organisers. Its outdoor opening ceremony featured a performance by magician Stephen Frayne. The UK City of Culture programme began in 2013. Approaching our reporter with the screen in his arms, he asked for £10 for the goods. Beggers linger at traffic lights on busy junctions intimidating waiting motorists into handing over cash. And junkies openly take drugs in dingy shop doorways and litter-strewn alleyways before crashing out on benches or seeking out another store to shoplift. On Kirkgate, a once bustling shopping street, numerous loafers were hanging about swigging booze from cans and shouting at each other. One man had emptied the industrial bin beside the British Heart Foundation charity store and was messily rummaging through its contents. 19 A group of people drink alcohol Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say the alcohol and drug problem in the city centre is getting worse Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say they can't find work with businesses closing down Credit: NB PRESS LTD A charity shop volunteer said:'He doesn't care if he is making a mess. He is often doing this to look for things to sell on to buy drugs. 'He is very aggressive on some days. 'As soon as we put the bins out he is at them. He's after the coat hangers, they might fetch him a few quid." There was a distinct absence of any police officers patrolling the city centre. Cops raid large cannabis farm in landmark building By Mark Lister POLICE found a large cannabis farm at a landmark Bradford city centre building over the weekend. West Yorkshire Police were called to reports of a burglary at Sunwin House on Sunday. On arrival, a large cannabis farm was found. A 36-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, remains in police custody. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene. Police attention has been focused on the side of the building, near Goit Side, with several force vehicles and an extensive cordon in place. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, he remains in police custody at this time. "Police were called to reports of a burglary on Sunbridge Road. "On arrival, officers located a large cannabis farm. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene." Sunwin House dates back to the 1930s, when it was constructed as a Co-operative emporium. More recently, it was used as a TJ Hughes department store and awarded a Grade II listing for its architectural significance. Since TJ Hughes shut its doors 15 years ago, the building has been mainly empty. But some locals still like the place. Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford and described living there as 'bloody brilliant'. 'I can't work at the moment though, due to my disability ,' he says brandishing his badly scarred left arm which he damaged in a car crash. 'Before the accident I was in the Army, Royal Artillery. I'm on the sick now though. 'I don't mind living in Bradford, it has its good and bad sides, like a lot of places. 19 The shutdown Wilko store is among the major franchises having left the city Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A man searches through litter from a large industrial bin Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Many residents say the city is rundown and there are few jobs to be had Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'I love the place because of the people.' Student Madison Kirby, 16, said: "There are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down. 'There are too many people and not enough jobs in Bradford.' Another student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago. 'I hope to find work in Bradford when I have finished my studies,' she said. 'Coming from Turkey to Bradford was obviously a bit different, but I've got used to it now. Read more on the Irish Sun 'There are obviously some things that go on which are not nice and you do see some sights.' The Sun has approached 19 Bradford is this year's city of culture, meaning it has access to extra funding to improve infrastructure Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A beggar approaches motorists at traffic lights Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Madison Kirby, 16, said there are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Parts of the city centre are very rundown Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford but is currently unable to work due to disability Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former ventilation fitter Timmy Firth has just come out of prison and is looking for work Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Bradford won its bid to become this year's city of culture following a competitive bidding campaign in 2022 Credit: NB PRESS LTD
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Dark underbelly of UK's new City of Culture plagued by soaring unemployment, ‘spiced-up' druggies & ‘roaming XL Bullies'
See the top 20 areas for unemployment below DOLED OUT Dark underbelly of UK's new City of Culture plagued by soaring unemployment, 'spiced-up' druggies & 'roaming XL Bullies' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) CLOSED shops litter the ailing high street and "spiced up" junkies stumble around like zombies or openly inject drugs in dingy doorways. Bradford - this year's UK City of Culture - has a dark underbelly of high unemployment, petty crime and illegal substance abuse. 19 A man slouches on a bench in Bradford city centre, apparently heavily intoxicated Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Two large Bully type dogs are walked across a road without leads Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago and hopes to find work there after she qualifies Credit: NB PRESS LTD It comes after The Sun laid bare the UK's unemployment capitals, with the Labour government telling thousands of Brits: those who can work should get a job. In May, the West Yorkshire city had 26,070 people claiming unemployment benefits, a rise on not only this time last year but also the previous month. Outside of London, it's only behind Birmingham (10.6%) and Luton (7.7%) for joblessness stats. Known as the "wool capital of the world" in its Victorian boom era, it's had a sad fall from grace. Locals complain that jobs are hard to find as high street stores, banks, and pubs close. JOB CENTRE Former ventilation fitter Timmy worked on the Broadway Shopping Mall opposite the Jobcentre before he was sent to prison and lost his livelihood. 'I've gone to the Jobcentre today because I've just got out of jail and want to get back to work,' he told The Sun. 'I'm normally self-employed, I'm a skilled air conditioning ventilation fitter, but it's looking to be pretty hard finding work in Bradford at the moment. The UK's top 10 unemployment hotspots This data, compiled by the ONS, shows the percentage of people in the Claimant Count for unitary and local authorities in the UK. The Claimant Count refers to the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits, primarily Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit, who are required to seek work. Birmingham (10.6%) Newham (8.5%) Barking and Dagenham (8.5%) Haringey (8.2) Brent (8.2%) Enfield (7.8%) Luton (7.7%) Bradford (7.5%) Hackney (7.5%) Waltham Forest (7.4%) Lewisham (7.3%) Wolverhampton (7.3%) Ealing (7.2%) Sandwell (7.2%) Tower Hamlets (7.2%) Oldham 7.0 % Croydon (6.9%) Slough (6.6%) Redbridge (6.5%) Lambeth (6.5%) 'Most of my work would be away from the city anyway. I've got all my tickets, fork-lift licence, driving licence, wagon driving licence, etc. 'I'm obviously looking for work but it is not easy. 'Them lot in the Jobcentre are offering jobs on basic wages in factories and stuff, but I'm skilled and I have a trade.' More than 1 MILLION migrants are claiming Universal Credit in Britain – with majority unemployed Unemployment in Bradford represents a 7.5 per cent rate, according to the latest figures. That is an increase of 230 claimants compared to the previous month and 420 compared to May 2024. The UK unemployment rate for people aged 16+ was 4.7 per cent in March-May 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics. Darley Street Market A recent boon for Bradford is the state-of-the art Darley Street Market, which opened its doors last weekend. The new market was buzzing with vendors and customers alike during The Sun's visit, and it had a vibrant atmosphere. It also has provided work for many Bradfordians, including Demi-Leigh Turner, 24, who is delighted to be behind the counter at Jake's Bakehouse in the market having been unemployed prior to its opening. 'It's brilliant to be working there and we are really busy,' said Demi-Leigh. 'It has been hard work, there is a lot of footfall at the market, but I'm loving it. 19 The new Darley Street Market opened this month Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Demi Leigh Turner works at the market and praised the opportunities there Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 There a multiple vacant business premises in the city centre Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'This is a real success story for Bradford. Everybody in there is happy.' However, just outside the market on a street bench on Darley Street was a "spiced-up" man in a drugged-up stupor, making an upsetting and unnerving sight for shoppers and parents with young children. Up the road, towards the old Oastler Shopping Centre and Market, which is now shuttered up due to the new relocation, there are down-and-outs hanging around. Two scruffy and skeletal men were wandering the streets, roll-up in hand and accompanied by a pair of XL bully-type dogs, off their leash. Another seemingly homeless guy was trying to flog a TV to passers-by. Bradford as City of Culture 2025 Bradford was named the UK City of Culture for 2025 due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse communities and innovative spirit. The designation was given by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. It means the West Yorkshire city gains access to funding to improve its infrastructure and arts facilities, and will continue to host events until the end of the year. Bradford won their bid in May 2022, beating County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough. More than a million people have engaged with the city's Culture projects so far this year, according to organisers. Its outdoor opening ceremony featured a performance by magician Stephen Frayne. The UK City of Culture programme began in 2013. Approaching our reporter with the screen in his arms, he asked for £10 for the goods. Beggers linger at traffic lights on busy junctions intimidating waiting motorists into handing over cash. And junkies openly take drugs in dingy shop doorways and litter-strewn alleyways before crashing out on benches or seeking out another store to shoplift. On Kirkgate, a once bustling shopping street, numerous loafers were hanging about swigging booze from cans and shouting at each other. One man had emptied the industrial bin beside the British Heart Foundation charity store and was messily rummaging through its contents. 19 A group of people drink alcohol Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say the alcohol and drug problem in the city centre is getting worse Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say they can't find work with businesses closing down Credit: NB PRESS LTD A charity shop volunteer said:'He doesn't care if he is making a mess. He is often doing this to look for things to sell on to buy drugs. 'He is very aggressive on some days. 'As soon as we put the bins out he is at them. He's after the coat hangers, they might fetch him a few quid." There was a distinct absence of any police officers patrolling the city centre. Cops raid large cannabis farm in landmark building By Mark Lister POLICE found a large cannabis farm at a landmark Bradford city centre building over the weekend. West Yorkshire Police were called to reports of a burglary at Sunwin House on Sunday. On arrival, a large cannabis farm was found. A 36-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, remains in police custody. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene. Police attention has been focused on the side of the building, near Goit Side, with several force vehicles and an extensive cordon in place. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, he remains in police custody at this time. "Police were called to reports of a burglary on Sunbridge Road. "On arrival, officers located a large cannabis farm. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene." Sunwin House dates back to the 1930s, when it was constructed as a Co-operative emporium. More recently, it was used as a TJ Hughes department store and awarded a Grade II listing for its architectural significance. Since TJ Hughes shut its doors 15 years ago, the building has been mainly empty. But some locals still like the place. Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford and described living there as 'bloody brilliant'. 'I can't work at the moment though, due to my disability,' he says brandishing his badly scarred left arm which he damaged in a car crash. 'Before the accident I was in the Army, Royal Artillery. I'm on the sick now though. 'I don't mind living in Bradford, it has its good and bad sides, like a lot of places. 19 The shutdown Wilko store is among the major franchises having left the city Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A man searches through litter from a large industrial bin Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Many residents say the city is rundown and there are few jobs to be had Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'I love the place because of the people.' Student Madison Kirby, 16, said: "There are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down. 'There are too many people and not enough jobs in Bradford.' Another student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago. 'I hope to find work in Bradford when I have finished my studies,' she said. 'Coming from Turkey to Bradford was obviously a bit different, but I've got used to it now. 'There are obviously some things that go on which are not nice and you do see some sights.' The Sun has approached Bradford City Council for comment. 19 Bradford is this year's city of culture, meaning it has access to extra funding to improve infrastructure Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A beggar approaches motorists at traffic lights Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Madison Kirby, 16, said there are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Parts of the city centre are very rundown Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford but is currently unable to work due to disability Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former ventilation fitter Timmy Firth has just come out of prison and is looking for work Credit: NB PRESS LTD
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Volunteers needed to support arts and heritage
A volunteering programme is looking for new members to support arts and heritage events in their region. Hull and East Yorkshire HEY! is known for its blue-coated volunteers, who greeted visitors to Hull during its UK City of Culture year in 2017. After the programme expanded into Bridlington last year, applications are open for new members. Volunteer Stewie Bruce, who is based in Bridlington, said: "Being a HEY volunteer is a good way to make friends, it's a big happy family." With about 2,500 volunteers, the programme allows people to donate their time flexibly. Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: ''HEY! Volunteers play a significant role in supporting tourism within Hull and the East Riding." The authority said the programme could help people to build confidence and meet new friends, as well as helping to improve their employability and communication skills. It said members would also be able to choose the events they would like to take part in. Mr Bruce added: "You also get to meet people from all different backgrounds, who are really interesting. "It puts a smile on my face when I put on my uniform to go out to an event." Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here. Click here to download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad. Click here to download the BBC News app from Google Play for Android devices. Scheme that supports cultural events gets £200k Hull woos Londoners with 5,000 pots of chip spice East Riding of Yorkshire Council HEY Volunteering
ITV News
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- ITV News
Council paid over £5m by NEC Group after they pulled out of Bradford Live
The original operator of a controversial £50million music venue in Bradford paid more than £5million to back out of its agreement with the council, it has been revealed. The NEC Group had been due to run the 3,800-seater Bradford Live before it suddenly announced it was pulling out in September 2024, four months before the start of Bradford's year as UK City of Culture. The decision left Bradford Council searching for a new operator for what was hailed as the biggest regeneration scheme in the city centre. Trafalgar Entertainment signed a 25-year lease to manage the site in April. It has now been revealed NEC Group paid £5.3million to Bradford Council after it withdrew from its agreement. Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: 'As people can see we secured a significant settlement from the NEC that protected the interests of the Bradford district taxpayer. "With the opening season for Bradford Live under the fantastic new operator, Trafalgar Entertainment, starting next month, we can now all look forward with excitement to a wonderful future for this amazing building.' Bradford Live, on the site of the former Odeon cinema, was initially forecast to cost between £22m and £25m and was due to open last year. But costs spiralled to £50m, with the council putting in £44m, and the venue has yet to open. It is now due hold its first gig on Yorkshire Day, 1 August. The concert, Yorkshire Calling, will feature classical singer, Aled Jones, acclaimed poet, Ian McMillan and the BBC Bantam of the Opera Choir with Bradford City legend, Chris Kamara.
