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Future trends in UK online betting

Because of technological progress, changing customers and legal decisions, the internet betting market in the UK has grown and developed steadily over the last decade. That means that even as the world advances into late-2024, there are new trends set to transform the UK online betting industry with people changing how they interact with online betting platforms. This article shall focus on such future trends of betting in the UK by analysing the experiences that set the sense of evolution for online betting over the past couple of years.

The Rise of Esports Betting

In recent years, esports have really taken off and amassed a huge fan base, running into millions across the globe, who tune in to watch competitive video gaming. As far as the UK is concerned, esports has recorded enormous growth not only as a viewing sport but even as a betting market. The betting on esports tournaments for such games as League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Dota 2 has really taken a turn for the better.

Just this year, the proportion taken by esports betting in the UK online betting marketplace will more than likely be much greater. This market segment’s growth is supported by younger punters, many of whom have already become avid gamers. It is these technology-savvy bettors who love esports because it epitomises the competitive spirit of traditional sports with the added excitement of fast-paced digital arenas. Online betting platforms also tend to latch onto this by creating an e-sports section dedicated to offering markets for various outcomes of different in-game scenarios.

Social Betting and Community-Driven Platforms

Another fad that is sweeping across the UK is social betting. Between social media and community based sites, the modern bettor is no longer satisfied with a loner experience. Social betting platforms allow users to share tips, follow betting influencers, and participate in group bets. 2024 has seen an increase in social betting options where bettors can interact with one another, build communities and even participate in leagues.

Interestingly, the line between traditional online casinos and social betting is beginning to blur, with some platforms integrating features typically associated with online casinos, such as a casino deposit bonus. For example, certain community-driven betting sites offer casino deposit bonuses as incentives to attract new users or reward loyal players. This approach allows bettors to explore casino-style games within a social setting, potentially using their bonuses to participate in friendly competitions or betting pools. By combining elements from both casino and social betting experiences, these platforms aim to appeal to a wider range of users who enjoy both traditional gambling and interactive social features.

Increased Focus on Responsible Gambling and Regulation

With the expansion of internet betting, comes the focus on problem gambling. UK Gambling Commission has already been clamping down on it to protect vulnerable but people can expect it to become even more strict. Online sites will probably have to install better tracking devices to spot signs of gambling addicts and offer them assistance.

Self-exclusion tools, spending limits, real-time tracking of gambling behaviour will all be the norm, due to both regulatory pressure and because these types of things will become possible through AI and machine learning. This transition not only safeguards the consumer, but also adds to the legitimacy of the online betting industry as a whole in the UK.

Mobile-First Betting Platforms

With the continued surge in the use of mobile, the status quo in online betting is gradually changing, as this industry is adopting a mobile-first approach. Because of the improved quality of both mobile and the internet, most bettors in the UK are likely to do their betting on their smartphones and tablets. Its massive popularity can perhaps be attributed to the convenience of being able to place bets from any location at any given time.

The operators, in turn, try to make their sites more mobile-friendly so that users have easy access, fast speeds and smooth integration of payment gateways. The betting applications are becoming increasingly sophisticated: live streaming of events, being able to instantly cash out, even push notifications regarding personalised offers or updates.

Increased Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics

AI and data analytics are becoming a necessity for the online betting world and their usage is expected to grow exponentially by 2025. Betting sites in the UK have been using AI to improve user experiences by providing users with betting options specifically tailored to their individual preferences and behaviours. AI algorithms can look at past data, betting behaviours and tendencies and suggest bets that bettors are more likely to “play”, thus leading to better retention for the betting site.

With the UK online betting industry set for further expansion and development in 2024. Esports, AI, blockchain, VR/AR, mobile-first platforms, social betting, and a lot more focus on responsible gambling are all going to play a huge part in the future of the industry. These facts only show the changing interests of the British better, but also how technology is allowing more interactive, customised, and secure betting. With the industry evolving to these changes, the outlook for online betting in the UK appears much more flexible and more creative then it ever has been.

A look at Jamie Vardy’s best Premier League Goals for Leicester City

Few players in Leicester City’s history have achieved the legendary status that Jamie Vardy enjoys. His rise from non-league football to Premier League champion is the stuff of football fairy tales – a key component of a side that shook football betting to its core.

Indeed, Vardy has been the driving force behind Leicester’s success over the past decade, and his incredible journey culminated in winning the 2015/16 Premier League title, a feat that will forever define his career and cement his place as a Foxes legend.

In that season under Claudio Ranieri, Leicester defied all expectations to lift the Premier League trophy, with Vardy playing a crucial role. His pace, pressing and finishing made him a nightmare for defenders, and he set a scoring record by scoring in 11 consecutive matches.

Vardy’s rise from non-league football with Fleetwood Town to Premier League stardom is inspirational. Despite interest from bigger clubs, he remained loyal to Leicester, further endearing himself to the fans and retiring early from the England national team to preserve his career in the East Midlands.

Even at 37, Vardy continues to be vital for Leicester, with 138 Premier League goals and counting, as he hopes to keep the Foxes afloat as they look to avoid relegation this season.

In this article, we take a look at some of Vardy’s finest goals in the Premier League, highlighting the moments that defined his career at Leicester City.

Leicester vs Manchester United – 2014

Vardy announced himself on the Premier League stage in stunning fashion during Leicester’s unforgettable 5-3 win over Manchester United.

In what would be remembered as one of the great comebacks, Vardy terrorised the United defence, using his pace and direct play to devastating effect to slot the winner home with composure.

This game was a glimpse of what was to come, as Vardy led Leicester’s charge towards survival in their “Great Escape” season under Nigel Pearson, showing he could mix it with the league’s elite.

Leicester vs Liverpool – 2016

Arguably Vardy’s best goal from the title-winning campaign came against Liverpool at the King Power Stadium.

With the game finely poised, Vardy produced a moment of magic, launching a long-range, dipping strike that flew over Simon Mignolet and into the net.

It was a goal that showed his confidence and ability to score from anywhere, and it came at a crucial time, giving Leicester a vital win as they continued their march towards the title.

This was Jurgen Klopp’s first visit to the King Power, and the England international ensured it was one to forget for Liverpool’s new manager.

West Brom vs Leicester – 2018

As teams began to adapt to Leicester’s style following their title win, Vardy had to evolve his game. Against West Brom, Vardy showcased his versatility and instinct with a stunning first-time finish.

The ball was played over the top from Riyad Mahrez, and Vardy’s perfectly timed volley left the goalkeeper with no chance. The stunning strike highlighted his ability to thrive even when opposing teams sat deep, as he found new ways to make an impact against defensive setups.

Leicester vs Bournemouth – 2019

In his Golden Boot-winning season, Vardy scored numerous memorable goals, but his strike against Bournemouth stood out as a classic example of his trademark style.

Running onto a long ball from deep, Vardy timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap and then produced an exquisite lob over Aaron Ramsdale from 25 yards out.

Leicester vs Wolves – 2021

Even in his latter years, Vardy continued to show why he was crucial for Leicester’s ambitions. In a tight match against Wolves, he once again displayed his sharpness in front of goal with a beautifully timed, first-time finish across the face of goal, showing he could keep his place in the side as Brendan Rodgers looked to challenge for Champions League football.

Letters: Use parking charge to fund direct bus service to park

Our readers from across the borough give their weekly take on the biggest issues impacting Gedling and beyond.

Join the debate by sending your letter to letters@gedlingeye.co.uk . Please put ‘Letters’ in the subject line. You can also submit a letter by filling in the simple form below, and it may appear online.

Some letters refer to past correspondence which can be found by clicking HERE

Names and addresses will be withheld by request but must be included in the email. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters published do not reflect the views of Gedling Eye


Parking charge should be used to fund direct bus service to Gedling Country Park

Sir,

I was annoyed to read that proposals have been put forward to start charging for parking at Gedling Country Park.

Why are all councils in this country charging the public to help keep them afloat but offer very little in return.

In this story I read nothing that suggested the money would be used to improve the park. Where is it going? Many would like to see the extra revenue spent on keeping the cafe and toilets open for longer – but I disagree.

I do not mind additional charges as long as I am getting a bang for my buck.

The right thing to do would use this money to fund a direct bus service to the park from our towns and villages. Yes, there is one from the city centre but two buses must be a nightmare for those with young children or in wheelchairs.

A Sudbury,
Gedling


Our MPs are here to represent us – not themselves

Sir,

I saw a letter from D Jones who had concerns about the criticisms of local MPs are receiving over the winter fuel allowance (Readers’ Letters -03/10/24: We are being ‘unfair’ on our local MPs who are taking blame for pensioner winter fuel allowance cut)

Local MPs are in in Parliament to represent their constituents and should be there to stand up for their rights in Westminster and should be prepared to do this regardless of the outcome. If they are not prepared to represent us then don’t become an MP.

Labour do not represent people who work hard to help themselves.

The state pension is not a benefit, it is merely being returned to us after retirement after being squirrelled away by endless Governments.

Many people do not have the privilege of receiving their pension as many die before they are able to enjoy a retirement.

Joy Sparks,
via email


22,000 pensioners will be affected by fuel allowance cut – and MPs ‘totally responsible’

Sir,

I write in reply to D Jones (Readers’ Letters -03/10/24: We are being ‘unfair’ on our local MPs who are taking blame for pensioner winter fuel allowance cut) who states MPs Payne and Welsh were not to blame for the cutting of the winter fuel allowance.

The vote in parliament was a vote of conscience, knowing that prior to the election Labour promised they would not cut the winter fuel allowance. The two MP’S concerned could have abstained or voted against the removal of the winter fuel allowance.

Over 22,000 pensioners in Gedling are affected by those two MPs actions. They are totally responsible alongside their Labour colleagues.

Keith Seaton,
Chairman,
Reform UK Gedling


Prisons are overcrowded because criminals aren’t afraid of them

Sir,

On the day 1,700 prisoners are released because of overcrowding, we’ve been promised by the Labour government that around 1,000 will be released every week for some time to come. But we’re assured for now they are not dangerous ones.

This crisis is a result of a misguided approach in the UK Criminal Justice System that has lasted decades over both governments. The reason why our prisons are so full us because many people aren’t afraid of going there. There’s been this very odd obsession with ‘rehabilitation’ not punishment.

I have always questioned the emphasis on ‘rehabilitation’ over punishment for those that commit terrible crimes, while being fully aware of the evil they do. And this flawed approach has resulted in the current crisis.

If people were afraid of prison, and were sent there, there would be less crime and fewer prisoners.

Ron Lim,
Carlton


Stop using the word ‘cop’ – it’s US slang

Sir,

Recently we are seeing the use of the word ‘cops’ in your headlines and copy.

Why has Gedling Eye debased itself by using slang language, mostly imported from USA and not educating its reporters and copy editors?

Headlines and copy like this are not attractive and it would be good to see correct English used for once.

S Patchett,
Mapperley


Cycling on pavements ‘selfish and dangerous’

Sir,

I want to take up the issue of cyclists riding on the pavement. It is an everyday sight in Netherfield, people breaking the law, secure in the knowledge they are unlikely to see a police officer and, even if they do, she or he will do nothing about it.

Come to the town and you will see whole families, mum, dad and children arrogantly taking up the pavement even if the roads are clear. There is one man who regularly rides with his daughter up Victoria Road, teaching him by example that the law doesn’t apply to him.

A friend of mine suffered months of pain culminating in a knee replacement after being struck by a cyclist on the pavement. This practice is selfish, dangerous and illegal.

Name and address supplied


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    Nottingham Building Society drops Robin Hood from logo for ‘not being financially inclusive enough’

    Bosses at The Nottingham building society have dropped Robin Hood from their logo after deciding he’s not “inclusive enough”.

    The famous outlaw has been given the boot as part of a rebrand to reflect financial diversity by the firm who have branches in Arnold and Mapperley.

    He has now been replaced by a black squiggly line forming an N surrounded by a green background. 

    The Notts legend was first used as the building society’s iconic logo in the 1980s. 

    Announcing the new look on their website, The Nottingham said: “We’re proud to be a building society, so we’ve brought that back into our name. We’re Nottingham Building Society – not just The Nottingham.

    The old logo used by The Nottingham featuring Robin Hood

    The new logo also reveals that the old name of Nottingham Building Society has been restored

    “We’ve mixed our rich history with a modern twist. We want to reflect society as it is today. For us, that means championing inclusivity and celebrating financial diversity. Consider it a glow-up, but for a building society, changing to make sure we’re fresh and relevant for current and future members.

    “You’ll also spot a new logo, fresh colours and a bold new tone of voice. You’ll see this new look on our website, social media, and some of our letters and statements.”

    Former Tory minister Sir Alec Shelbrooke was one of the first to speak out about the decision last night, stating: “There’s nothing more English than the story of Robin Hood – the classic folklore legend. 

    Customers also had their say on X, formally known as Twitter.

    One wrote: ‘This logo is ridiculous. Means nothing about Nottingham or the building society. It doesn’t stand out, doesn’t mean anything… waste of money in my eyes! 

    ‘Ruined a well known brand and what is wrong with celebrating/using a well known English legend!’ 

    A spokesman for the society told The Sun: ‘We are incredibly proud of our roots and 175 years of history in Nottingham. We celebrate that, while recognising that people today have a much broader range of financial needs than ever before and it is important that we meet their needs. 

    ‘Our new look reflects our commitment to building for the future, for both our customers in Nottingham and those right across the UK.’

    Balancing academics and social life on University campuses

    University life is often described as one of the most exciting and challenging phases of a student’s journey. It’s a time when students must find a balance between excelling in academics and enjoying their social lives. This balance is crucial, not only for achieving good grades but also for making the most out of the entire university experience. However, it can be difficult to juggle the demands of assignments, projects, and study sessions while still engaging in the vibrant social life that campuses offer. Let’s explore how students can successfully manage both.

    Understanding the Importance of Academics

    Academics should always be a top priority during your time at university, as they form the backbone of your educational journey and future professional life. The knowledge and skills you acquire in lectures, workshops, and self-study sessions are not just about passing exams—they are tools that equip you for the real world. Developing a deep understanding of your field opens the door to innovative thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills that are critical in any career path.

    Meeting assignment deadlines is a significant aspect of academic success. Not only does it demonstrate your commitment and discipline, but it also helps in managing the workload effectively and reducing stress. However, balancing multiple deadlines can be overwhelming at times. This is where cheap assignment help services come in handy. These services provide students with the necessary support to meet their academic goals without compromising the quality of their work. By ordering essay services or seeking assistance with complex research papers, students can better manage their time and focus on other crucial aspects of their coursework. Utilizing such services ensures that deadlines are met, enabling a smoother academic journey while still allowing for a thriving social life.

    Setting Academic Priorities

    Setting clear academic priorities is the first step toward achieving a balanced lifestyle. Create a study schedule that highlights important deadlines, coursework, and study sessions. Organize your tasks according to their level of urgency and importance, ensuring you focus on the most critical assignments first. By doing so, you can effectively allocate time for both your studies and social engagements, creating a structured and stress-free university experience.

    The Value of Social Life in University

    While academics are crucial, a rich social life is equally important for personal development and well-being. Social interactions on campus are not just about having fun; they are a vital part of your growth as a person. Engaging with fellow students, participating in extracurricular activities, and attending campus events can lead to lifelong friendships, valuable networking opportunities, and improved mental health.

    University clubs, societies, and student organizations provide a great way to meet new people who share similar interests. These activities also enhance your communication, leadership, and team-building skills, which are essential in both personal and professional spheres. A balanced social life helps in reducing stress, keeping you motivated, and ensuring that you don’t burn out from excessive study sessions.

    Avoiding the Trap of Over-Commitment

    It’s easy to get carried away with social engagements and neglect academics when you’re surrounded by friends and exciting events. However, over-committing to social activities can negatively impact your studies. Recognize the warning signs, such as missing deadlines or feeling constantly stressed about your grades. Learning to say “no” when necessary is a vital skill that helps you maintain control over your schedule.

    Techniques for Time Management

    Managing time effectively is the key to maintaining a balance between academics and social life. Here are some proven strategies that can help:

    1. Create a Weekly Planner: Use a digital planner or a physical notebook to jot down your weekly schedule. Highlight important dates, deadlines, and social events to get a clear overview of your week.
    2. The Pomodoro Technique: Break your study sessions into focused intervals (usually 25 minutes), followed by a short break. This method helps maintain concentration and productivity.
    3. Use Productivity Tools: Apps like Trello and Todoist can help you organize your tasks, set reminders, and track your progress. These tools are excellent for managing both academic and social commitments.

    By implementing these techniques, you can optimize your study time, freeing up more space in your schedule for social activities without feeling overwhelmed.

    Finding a Healthy Balance

    Achieving a healthy balance between academics and social life requires careful planning and a willingness to adapt. Here are some practical tips to help you manage both aspects effectively:

    • Integrate Study Time with Social Activities: Sometimes, combining study sessions with friends or classmates can be both productive and fun. This approach allows you to socialize while still focusing on your academic goals.
    • Set Boundaries: Know your limits and don’t hesitate to set boundaries when necessary. It’s okay to turn down a party or a social gathering if you have a major assignment due the next day.
    • Prioritize Self-Care: University life can be stressful, so it’s crucial to take care of your mental and physical health. Make time for exercise, meditation, and relaxation to recharge your energy levels.

    Students who learn to balance their academics and social life often find themselves more satisfied and less stressed. They also develop essential skills like time management, discipline, and adaptability, which are valuable in every aspect of life.

    Overcoming Common Challenges

    University life is not without its challenges. Students often struggle with procrastination, peer pressure, and the fear of missing out (FOMO). These challenges can make it difficult to focus on academics while enjoying a fulfilling social life.

    To overcome procrastination, try setting small, achievable goals and rewarding yourself upon completion. If peer pressure becomes an issue, remind yourself of your long-term objectives and how staying on track will benefit you. Building resilience and the ability to adapt to different situations will help you stay focused on your studies without completely sacrificing your social life.

    Building Resilience

    Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and continue moving forward despite challenges. This quality is crucial for students who aim to excel both academically and socially. Learning how to cope with stress and failures, while still maintaining a positive outlook, will lead to long-term success.

    Conclusion

    Balancing academics and social life on university campuses is an essential skill that can significantly enhance your overall experience. It’s not just about striving for perfect grades or attending every social gathering; it’s about finding a rhythm that allows you to grow both as a student and as an individual. By setting clear priorities, managing your time effectively, and making use of the resources available, you can create a well-rounded university journey that is both fulfilling and rewarding. Remember, university life is not only about learning from books but also from experiences, challenges, and the people you meet along the way. Embrace this unique time in your life to build both your knowledge and your memories.

    Nottinghamshire Police issues warning to Gedling borough drivers of fake parking fine text scam

    Drivers in Gedling borough are being warned by Nottinghamshire Police of a text message scam which falsely claims people owe money for parking fines.

    Nottinghamshire Police said it had received numerous reports of scam texts being sent to drivers across the borough in recent weeks, with the sender pretending to be from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). 

    The bogus messages usually tell the recipient that they are being served a “parking penalty charge” and include a link to make a payment.

    The texts will often make threats if this sum is not paid within a certain timeframe. This could be a driving ban, increased fine, or being taken to court.

    parking-ticket
    The texts will often make threats if this fine is not paid within a certain timeframe

    The DVSA does not deal with parking fines and anyone who receives the text message should simply delete it and not click any links contained within the message.

    Detective Sergeant Sally Collins, of Nottinghamshire Police’s fraud unit, said: “In light of the spike in reports, we are advising people that the DVSA does not deal with parking fines, so will never send anyone a text like this.

    “Aside from this, key giveaways are spelling and grammar mistakes, and if the message has been sent from a personal mobile number.

    “Our message is simple, if you’ve received a text message about a parking fine claiming to be from DVSA, this is a scam.

    “Simply delete the message and do not click the link as it leads to a phoney website which could extort money and personal information from you.”

    Anyone who receives a scam message purporting to be from the DVSA is asked to report it to the National Cyber Security Centre by clicking here.

    VIDEO: Mapperley drink-driver led police on high-speed chase before crashing into parked cars

    A dangerous driver from Mapperley who sped through Nottingham city centre while over the drink-drive limit has been sentenced.

    Police illuminated their blue lights after spotting Declan Muers driving at speed along Maid Marian Way shortly after 4am on Sunday, February 18.

    Muers failed to stop and went through five red lights before crashing into two parked cars in Hungerhill Road, St Ann’s.

    Nottingham Crown Court heard a number of pedestrians were around enjoying a weekend night out.

    The high-speed chase came to a stop when the driver crashed into two parked cars (Notts Police)

    One of the cars the driver crashed into (PHOTO: Notts Police)

    Luckily, no-one was struck by Muers – but he himself sustained a minor head injury when he lost control of his blue Volkswagen Scirocco and crashed into the parked cars.

    Officers took him to Queen’s Medical Centre for treatment to a cut head before transferring him into custody, where he was charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop when required by a police constable and drink-driving.

    The court heard Muers blew a reading of 49 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

    The 27-year-old of Mapperley pleaded guilty to all three offences and was jailed for 16 months, suspended for two years, on Monday (7).

    He was further disqualified from driving for two years, given a four-month curfew and told to complete 10 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.

    Following the sentencing, PC Fraser Heaton, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Muers showed a clear disregard for the safety of others by driving dangerously through a city centre in poor weather conditions.

    “He was in no fit state to be behind the wheel of a car and it is fortunate he didn’t cause harm to another road user or pedestrian. He was also extremely lucky not to have sustained a more serious injury himself after losing control and crashing into two parked vehicles.

    “During his police interview, he told us he’d been drinking in a nightclub and left after becoming angry about something that had happened.

    “He should have got a taxi home but seemingly didn’t want to pay a fare. Now he’s paid a heftier price in court with the loss of his driver’s licence.”

    Cash boost for three local charities from Gedling Gala event

    Three local charities have now benefitted from cash raised during this year’s Gedling Gala.

    Friends of Gedling Country Park, Friends of Gedling House Woods and Gedling Conservation Trust (Netherfield Lagoons) each received £500 each from organisers of the event.

    Three wildlife and conservation charities were chosen to honour this year’s Gala theme which was Make Gedling Tweet Again.

    A cheque is presented to members of the Gedling Conservation Trust

    A cheque is presented to members of Friends of Gedling House Woods

    The event took place on July 6 at Willow Park in the village.

    Organisers are holding their annual general meeting on October 22 at Gedling Memorial Hall, starting at 7.30pm. There will be hot drinks and biscuits.

    A spokesman for the organisers said: “If you’d like to see how we can help bring the local community together, come along to find out more.”

    People can join the Gala’s Facebook group to share your ideas and learn more about getting involved.

    Baby loss certificates now available to all families who have suffered miscarriages

    All parents who have experienced miscarriages can now apply for a certificate formally recognising their loss, the government has today announced (9).

    Baby loss certificates were first launched in February 2024 but were only available to those who had experienced a loss since September 2018.

    From today, this voluntary service will be extended with no backdate allowing all parents who have suffered an historic pregnancy loss or a future loss to apply. 

    More than 50,000 certificates have been issued so far.

    The government said it was committed to ensuring bereaved parents are supported during this difficult time, and that the impact and importance of their loss is recognised.

    Certificates are free and remain optional for parents.

    Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Losing a pregnancy can be deeply distressing – there is so much love and so many dreams for the future wrapped up in a tiny life. That’s why it is important for bereaved parents to have the option to officially recognise the existence of their babies and how much they matter.

    “I’m pleased we can now ensure all parents are able to apply for these certificates, no matter how long ago they lost their pregnancies.”

    Vicki Robinson, chief executive of the charity Miscarriage Association, said: “We’ve been extremely keen to see the scheme extended to include losses before 2018, so today marks a significant milestone for those who have waited for this recognition.

    “For many, even the earliest of losses can be deeply distressing, both emotionally and physically, but having a formal acknowledgement as a marker of their loss can be a meaningful part of the grieving process.

    “We know from the people that we support how much the certification scheme has helped those who have experienced pregnancy loss, so this is great news that people whose losses were previously not acknowledged now can be.”

    The extension of the service marks Baby Loss Awareness Week which is held every year from October 9-15. 

    Samantha Collinge, bereavement lead midwife at George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust and co-chair of the Pregnancy Loss Review, described the change as ‘a huge milestone moment’

    She said: “Since I was appointed as a bereavement midwife in 1998 I have campaigned for a standardised care pathway that ensures that every parent experiencing baby loss – regardless of the gestation or type of loss – receives the physical and emotional care and support they deserve.

    “Removing the restrictions around the application process will give all bereaved parents of pre 24 week baby loss the official recognition that their babies did exist and that their babies lives, however brief really do matter.”

    A certificate is available for any parent to access following a loss before 24 weeks, or 28 weeks for a loss before October 1992.

    Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and live in England.

    Parents can apply for a certificate HERE

    Vintage locomotive to steam through Gedling borough this weekend

    The magnificent sight of a steam train making its way through parts of Gedling borough can be enjoyed this Saturday.

    The GWR Castle Class locomotive will be steaming past Carlton and Burton Joyce stations on Saturday morning (12) as it makes its way to Lincoln as part of a Vintage Trains tour beginning at Birmingham New Street.

    There will be two opportunities for train enthusiasts to get a glimpse of the train when it makes a return journey back to Birmingham during the early evening – again passing through the borough.

    Carlton Station
    The GWR Castle Class locomotive will passthrough Carlton and Burton Joyce stations twice on Saturday (PHOTO: Gedling Eye)

    Burton Joyce station
    PICTURED: Burton Joyce Station

    The 4073 or Castle Class are steam locomotives used by Great Western Railway. They were built between 1923 and 1950 and designed by the railway’s chief mechanical engineer, Charles Collett and would be used to operate the company’s express passenger trains.

    They could reach speeds of up to 100 mph.

    Over the twenty-seven years from August 1923 to August 1950, 155 Castles were built. They were retired from service during the late 60s.

    When to watch

    The steam locomotive departs from Birmingham New Street at 8am. According to the timetable from operator Vintage Trains, it is expected to leave Nottingham Station at 11.05am and can be spotted passing through Carlton Station shortly after.

    The Castle Class locomotive is scheduled to leave Lincoln at 17.35pm and is due to arrive into Nottingham at 18.40pm, so should pass through from 6pm onwards.