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In the 1950s, Croydons tram network was envisioned as a rapid transit system, connecting to central London via a hub at Kennington Oval. The plan included street-level tracks, tunnels, and flyovers, with trams interchanging with Northern line Tube trains. Stations were designed to be compact and efficient, with grass and flower borders along the tracks. However, budget constraints halted the project, leaving Croydon without its tram lines for decades. Today, we still grapple with south to central London connections, making us wonder what could have been.

Lambeth residents, adjust your bin collection days over Christmas and New Year. Thursday and Friday collections shift to the next day. Free Christmas tree pickups start January 5th. Normal services resume January 5th.

Big news for Brits planning retirement! The state pension age is rising from 66 to 67, affecting those born between 1961 and 1977. This change, locked in by the Pensions Act in 2014, means everyone will have to wait until 67 to claim their pension. The triple lock rule boosts pensions this April, with a 4.8% rise expected, pushing the full new state pension to £241.30 per week. Keep an eye on DWP letters and plan ahead for the shift.

TV weather presenter Ruth Dodsworth shares her harrowing experience of domestic abuse during her marriage to Jonathan Wignall, highlighting the heightened risk of violence during Christmas. After leaving him, she found freedom and encourages others to seek help, as domestic abuse doesnt stop for the holidays. Experts at Welsh Womens Aid report a surge in calls in January, emphasizing the importance of support for survivors.

Claire, a budget-conscious mum from London, embarks on affordable European adventures, exploring Bergamo, Luxembourg City, and Gothenburg for under £100 each trip, including flights and expenses.

Police in Radford seek witnesses after unprovoked assault on woman in her twenties; attack occurred early December 9, 2025, between Lawson Street and Forest Road West; victim was walking home from a night out when an unknown man approached and punched her repeatedly; police urge anyone with information to come forward, especially dash-cam or CCTV footage; call one zero one and quote incident sixty-one of December 9, 2025, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on zero eight zero zero five five five one one one.

Chinese tourist narrowly escapes drowning at Egypts Matrouh Eye, highlighting the dangers of risky selfies. Despite a near-fatal encounter with a massive wave, she survives with minor injuries, thanks to a safety rope. This incident adds to a growing list of selfie-related tragedies, emphasizing the need for caution near dangerous edges.

Croydon, Londons roughest spot, becomes Hollywoods new hotspot. Stars like Matt Damon and Taylor Swift film there, boosting the local economy with nearly £5 million from shoots. Its unique skyline and diverse locations make it a versatile filming spot, transforming it from a tough exterior to a star-studded screen.

Mark Constantine, co-founder of Lush, defends his pro-Gaza stance, dismissing critics as bigots. He argues that compassion isnt political, and his companys principled stance has boosted sales and customer engagement. Constantine encourages shoppers to consider their values when making purchases.