The Princess Royal and the Duchess of Edinburgh proved they make quite a power duo when they co-hosted a reception for Korean War veterans today.

Anne, 73, and Sophie, 59, stood in for King Charles III, 75, as he continued cancer treatment, appearing cheerful as they chatted with attendees at Buckingham Palace, central London.

The pair greeted several veterans at the intimate event, which commemorated the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War.

Despite King Charles’ physical absence, the monarch added a personal touch to the reception and delivered a message through Anne.

Charles explained that his absence from the event has left him “disappointed” and “frustrated” but that he is “very grateful to the Princess Royal and the Duchess of Edinburgh for their contribution.”

As they marked the 70th anniversary of the Korean War, the royal family wanted to honor the approximately 60,000 British and 50,000 Commonwealth soldiers who served in the Korean War.

Anne looked chic in a tunic dress as she had a light-hearted chat with attendees.

She swapped her usual muted sunglasses for a bright blue dress, accessorized with a luxurious brooch.

The princess’ hair was done up in a classic updo and she added an element of glamor to her ensemble with a vibrant shade of red lipstick.

Elsewhere, Sophie appeared in good spirits as she shook hands with guests, including Remembrance director Philippa Rawlinson.

The late queen’s daughter-in-law looked typically elegant and opted for a stylish satin dress with a floral print.

The Duchess styled her blonde locks into a bun and wore a glamorous face of makeup, accentuating her eyes with dark mascara and eye shadow.

The mother-of-two added glitter to her outfit and wore a pair of earrings with an opulent bronze stone.

Sophie smiled for photos with war veterans at the reception, which marked 70 years since the end of the Korean War

The Duchess was in contact with Korean War veteran Roger Baker (pictured left) and appeared to be checking his phone

The mother-of-two appeared in good spirits as she shook hands with veterans at the event at Buckingham Palace

During the event, Sophie met with Remembrance director Philippa Rawlinson (pictured right)

Anne and Sophie spoke at the reception with Major General Eldon Millar (left), the Korean Ambassador to Britain, His Excellency Yeocheol Yoon (centre) and Director of Remembrance Philippa Rawlinson (right).

The Princess Royal was all smiles as she chatted with war veterans at the event earlier today

In his message conveyed through Anne, Charles outlined his thoughts on the event. He wrote: “I am delighted that so many of you can attend today’s reception, a rather belated gathering, I’m afraid, to mark the seventy years that have passed since the end of the Korean War.

‘It has been a personal ambition of mine to invite all of you, in whatever form, to Buckingham Palace to recognize this important milestone and to ensure that you are all most meritoriously honored for your gallant service over seventy years past.

‘You can therefore imagine how extremely disappointed and frustrated I am that I cannot be with you in person… I can only hope that you are well looked after in my absence and I am the Princess Royal and Duchess of Edinburgh , because she vouched for me.

‘As you know only too well, some 60,000 British and 50,000 Commonwealth soldiers served in the Korean War, alongside our United Nations allies. During the armistice in July 1953, President Eisenhower declared: “We will strive ardently to see that this armistice will in fact bring free peoples one step closer to their goal of a world at peace.”

“Thanks to those of you who were present and those you fought alongside, the free peoples of the Republic of Korea continue to experience democratic freedom and have proudly kept the peace ever since.

Korean Ambassador to Britain His Excellency Yeocheol Yoon appeared animated as she chatted with Anne and Sophie

The Duchess looked chic for the occasion in a mid-length satin dress. She added a touch of glamor to her ensemble with a pair of bronze earrings

Princess Anne greeted director of Remembrance Philippa Rawlinson with a firm handshake at the event

The 73-year-old royal looked focused as she chatted with a war veteran while holding her black leather bag

Looking typically stylish, Anne wore a bright blue custom tunic dress to the Buckingham Palace event

Sophie greeted Korean War veteran Roger Baker (pictured center) on behalf of King Charles

This lasting legacy was further commemorated during the recent Korean state visit, when President Yoon himself stated that Korea today would not have the political freedom, economic prosperity and thriving culture that has expanded far beyond its borders, without your courage all those years ago. ‘

Charles concluded: “In a world where freedoms are constantly challenged and our values ​​are under scrutiny, your selfless courage and steadfast pursuit of peace are guiding principles that have not been forgotten and that continue to inspire generations to come.

“We greet all who remain among us, and express our most sincere and eternal gratitude to those who have gone before us. Your service and your sacrifice will echo through the ages.”

At first glance, you might not think that the British Queen of WAGs and the Duchess of Edinburgh have much in common.

Coleen Rooney is married to football star and series chef Wayne, while Sophie is the wife of the late Queen Elizabeth’s youngest son.

Their lives may be apart, but when it comes to their clothes, they can be fashion twins.

Here we look at the many times the football princess and the popular Duchess have shown almost identical taste in outfits.

Barbie girls

Coleen on International Women’s Day this month and Sophie at the 2022 Chelsea Flower Show

Coleen celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) earlier this month by taking part in Q&A sessions in which she discussed her famous ‘Wagatha Christie’ fight with rival WAG, Rebekah Vardy (wife of Leicester City and England star Jamie).

Coleen was dressed in a striking pink trouser suit for the event, with sparkling silver accessories.

Did Coleen and Becky use IWD to call a truce and resolve their differences?

Do not be crazy.

Sophie looked as fresh as a daisy as she attended the 2022 Chelsea Flower Show, dressed in chic pink linen.

It was a shade chosen to complement the pink coat the late Queen Elizabeth wore that day.

Trendy stripes

Coleen models a dress she designed for Littlewoods in 2014, and Sophie in stripes in 2018

Deep down, Coleen is a Chanel and Versace girl, but that didn’t stop her from designing a bargain collection for Littlewoods in 2014, where the clothing line included this sleeveless dress that she modeled at a photocall in London.

In June 2018, Sophie, then Countess of Wessex, wore a jazzy asymmetrical striped dress to a public engagement in Stafford.

If only she had known that a shrunken, bargain version had been available at Littlewoods four years earlier!

Little black strapless dresses

Coleen in an LBD at the Pride of Britain Awards in 2005, and Sophie at a ball in 1999

Some might say Coleen deserves a Pride of Britain award for sticking with Wayne.

In 2005, just a few months after her then-fiancé admitted to visiting a brothel, Coleen attended the annual event in London in a strapless cocktail dress.

With Wayne on the naughty step she took her mother Colette as her date.

In 1999, three months before her wedding to Prince Edward, Sophie Rhys Jones attended a spring ball at the Dorchester Hotel.

She dressed in a strapless, black velvet dress that looked like it could have come straight from Coleen’s walk-in wardrobe – all she needed was a holiday tan from the WAG.

Daring in leather

Coleen in a black leather mini dress in 2019, and Sophie in a black leather midi dress in 2022

Just two days after her dramatic revelation on Twitter, when she publicly accused rival WAG Rebekah Vardy of selling stories about her, Coleen went to town.

In October 2019, she attended former Manchester United player Wes Brown’s 40th birthday party wearing a black leather one-shoulder mini dress and danced her troubles away at a nightclub in Manchester.

Three years later, in November 2022, Sophie, who many think has found her fashion feet in recent years, wore a beautiful leather midi dress from Italian brand Loewe when she visited a center for disabled children.

One session with the scissors is enough to turn the midi into a mini like Coleen’s, should she be so inclined.

Neutral suits

Coleen in a taupe Zara suit in 2022, and Sophie after her engagement was announced in 1999

Rebekah Vardy sued Coleen for defamation following her accusations of Wagatha Christie, but subsequently lost the case.

Coleen certainly looked like a winner in the ‘recognizable’ taupe Zara suit she wore to court in May 2022. She paired the outfit with a less recognizable £4,000 Chanel handbag.

Sophie looked equally recognizable and elegant in 1999, the day after her engagement was announced. As a working PR girl, she went straight back to the office, in a smart suit with a (non-Chanel) brown leather tote bag.

Fresh flowers

Coleen at the Grand National in 2012, and Sophie last year in a £1,150 tea dress

Scouser Coleen rarely misses the Grand National.

In 2012, she wore a floral print silk maxi dress for the big day, along with six-inch Louboutins. Her horse didn’t come in, but it’s certain she enjoyed a few glasses of bubbly in her private stall.

Sophie, recently named Duchess of Edinburgh, showed off her love for flowy floral dresses last summer.

She chose a £1,150 tea dress from Suzannah London to wear at Westminster Abbey to mark a service marking the 75th anniversary of the National Health Service.

Sleek and white

Coleen at the premiere of her Disney+ documentary, and Sophie in Florida in 2006

Coleen turned the Wagatha Christie scandal into a triumph when she launched her own documentary series for Disney+.

The WAG looked regal in white and tan (when isn’t she?) as she wore a strapless bodice with matching skirt for a screening of Coleen Rooney: The real Wagatha story.

When Sophie attended a charity event in West Palm Beach in 2006, she wore a daring white dress with a Bardot neckline.

Like Coleen’s, Sophie’s dress was flattering, form-fitting and just the right side of sexy.

Looks good in lace

Coleen at Wimbledon in 2022, and Sophie at the Platinum Jubilee concert the same year

Wayne and eldest son Kai accompanied Coleen to Wimbledon in 2022, when she wore a summery white lace dress.

While her dress looked bright and fresh, her face looked bored and disinterested. Well, it’s not Aintree, is it?

Did Coleen see Sophie at the Platinum Jubilee concert a few weeks earlier?

Sophie took a seat in the royal family’s box and was effortlessly cool and chic in a white lace dress from Zara.

Cheerful jumpsuits

Coleen in a black jumpsuit with diamond detailing last Christmas, and Sophie in 2018

Not only a lady who likes to shop and go on holiday, Coleen is also a lady who likes to have lunch.

She proved that last Christmas when she attended a lunch event hosted by her regular party planner, Julie Perry, at Harvey Nichols in Manchester.

Coleen wore a black jumpsuit with diamond detailing and looked simply sizzling.

Like Coleen, Sophie knows that a black jumpsuit can look just as glamorous and stylish as a dress, as she showed when arriving at an NSPCC fundraising dinner in 2018.

And what is this? She even has some Coleen-esque tan lines!

As millennials become increasingly concerned about their health and well-being, they are now broadening their horizons to take up a new sport: ‘jogging’.

The sport includes jogging and juggling, and this sport is growing all over the world.

The rules are simple: joggers must run while maintaining a juggling pattern. If a joggler is participating in a race and drops one of his balls or beanbags, he must return to the spot where he dropped it, and only then can he continue.

Despite it sounding bizarre, the sport is gaining interest and fans can even attend the World Jogging Championships, including three-, four- and five-ball races, in person or virtually in Wisconsin.

In Britain, the sport has also become popular in local communities, with millennial fans setting up jogging clubs and social media pages to share their progress.

Michal Kapral, from Canada, currently holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon time while jogging – two hours and 50 minutes.

His current personal best in the 500 meter jog with five balls and without a single drop is just over two minutes.

In 2015, Michal jogged in the New York City Marathon. However, organizers later banned jogglers from the race, citing that the balls or bean bags were banned.

Michal told the newspaper at the time New York Times: ‘I understand that there should be safety rules, but this seems to cross a line where it becomes intrusive, and perhaps less about real safety than about rules that ultimately stop us from having fun.’

He added: “But what I’m really disappointed about is the children. They love to see me jogging.”

Since then, Michal continues his favorite pastime elsewhere and shares his experiences online.

His rapid exploits have raised awareness of the sport, and now communities across the UK have taken up the competitive activity.

Scott Jenkins, 27, who lives in Edinburgh, is one such fan of the sport and has set up a local Facebook group where fans of the sport keep each other updated on their personal bests.

Scott (left) plans to jog the Edinburgh Marathon with friend James McDiarmid, 35, from Inverness (right)

Michal Kapral (pictured) currently holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon time while jogging

The data scientist started jogging in 2018 because he was “bored” with jogging and needed a new activity to boost motivation, according to the BBC.

Scott took his love for the sport to the next step and created a website where joggers can show off their personal bests. It has attracted an impressive 600 joggers in 26 different countries.

Sam told FEMAIL: ‘Running and juggling were my two separate hobbies, and I didn’t have enough time to do both. Jogging was my new challenge, I think I saw it online and gave it a try.

‘The term ‘joggling’ was coined in the late 1970s by the American Bill Giduz and is therefore not new. But I think most people might not have seen it before.

‘It’s easier than it seems. If you can juggle at all you have an advantage, but I expect most people who are physically fit can pick it up within a few months with ten minutes of practice a day.’

In May he plans to run the Edinburgh Marathon while jogging with his friend James McDiarmid, 35, from Inverness.

Savannah (right), from Wisconsin, caused a firestorm online after sharing a video of her partner (left) jogging 22 miles

James is familiar with juggling and has worked in the circus for twelve years, according to the BBC.

Now a teaching assistant, the 35-year-old says he feels strange running without juggling, despite the confused looks from strangers and the extra 30 minutes added to his running time.

Elsewhere, social media users have shared their experiences of the sport online. Dave Tester, from London, shared a clip TikTok of a man he saw jogging while enjoying a New Year’s walk.

He looked in disbelief as he watched the man run past while jogging at the same time. Dave wrote: ‘Happy New Year to this man who is jogging and juggling, and only to him.’

Savannah, from Wisconsin, also took the stage to perform a clamp of her partner Sam showing off his impressive jogging skills.

Viewers took to the comments section to share their thoughts on the clip, and many were impressed

He jogged 22 miles with just six drops and averaged seven minutes per mile. Savannah claimed that juggling has increased her partner’s focus on jogging.

The clip caused a storm online and was viewed more than 30,000 times. Viewers took to the comments section to share their thoughts on Sam’s jogging skills. One said: ‘Jogging is unreal.’ Another agreed, adding: “The jogging is unreal.”

A third wrote: ‘I can’t jog or juggle, this is insane.’ “He makes it look so easy,” said another.

Another said: ‘This is underestimating how impressive this is.’

A sixth added: ‘I could exercise every day of my life and I still wouldn’t be able to jog.’

PRIMARK has unveiled a new Hello Kitty-themed cafe at a branch in Glasgow – and shoppers say they are “buzzing” to visit.

The retailer has teamed up with Japanese company Sanrio to celebrate the iconic character’s 50th anniversary.

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The retail giant has given its stores in Braehead and Edinburgh a makeover and fans are loving it.

From now until June, the cafe will be serving a range of limited-edition treats inspired by Hello Kitty, such as sweet waffles and savory bow buns, alongside themed drinks including a choice of bubble teas and shakes.

A new collection has also been launched in select stores, including trendy graphic tees, sleepwear and collectible bags.

Fans of the character can also purchase mugs, stationery and beauty products.

In total, the range includes more than 100 items in women’s clothing, children’s clothing and household items.

Hello Kitty fans flocked to social media to comment on the new cafe, with many planning their next visit.

One wrote: “This is not a drill!”

Another said: “Three hours travel to Glasgow just for Hello Kitty in Primark.”

A third added: “I was here today, I spent £527 on Hello Kitty.”

A fourth weighed in: “Got to go here honestly.”

Sarah Jackson, Director of Licensing at Primark, said: “Hello Kitty has been a cultural phenomenon since her debut in 1974, captivating hearts around the world with her adorable aesthetic.

“At Primark we are proud of our extensive licensing offering and we are thrilled to unveil our new collection, marking another exciting chapter in Hello Kitty’s lasting legacy.

“We want to provide our customers with an unforgettable shopping experience and we are excited to once again transform our Primarket cafes into a Hello Kitty haven in five locations across the UK.”

The Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh are said to share a strong friendship, a connection that is even reflected in their fashion choices.

The similarities in their attire – from corresponding trouser suits to synchronized dresses – represent a remarkable bond that goes beyond personal style.

Since marrying into the Royal Family, Sophie, 59, much like Kate, 42, has cemented her position at the heart of the Monarchy, having been adored by both the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

Sophie not only served as a pillar of support to the Queen following the death of her husband, but she also spent time with Kate during the early stages of her relationship with William, offering guidance as she began her royal journey.

Despite their 17-year age gap, Sophie has forged a close alliance with Kate and mirrored her sartorial choices on several occasions, including state occasions and more informal appearances. 

The duo’s unbreakable bond was evident at the 2023 Buckingham Palace Garden Party, when they stepped out wearing carefully coordinating ensembles, adorned with ruffles and bows.

Inspired by the Lebanese label’s resort 2019 collection, Kate’s bespoke Elie Saab two-piece comprised an elegant pussy-bow blouse and dobby tulle skirt, created in an exquisite powder blue hue.

She debuted the ensemble at Royal Ascot in 2019 with identical accessories: a Philip Treacy hat, Gianvito Rossi heels and Kiki McDonough earrings (although the last-mentioned were a different version this time).

Sophie perfectly complemented Kate in the Suzannah Isla dress, crafted from Guipure lace and featuring a fit-and-flare silhouette, decorated with a frilled bib.

The Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh have worn the same Erdem dress in varying lengths

The royals’ coordinating aesthetic was also evident when they stepped out wearing glittering Erdem dresses in 2017 and 2023 respectively.

Kate, who was attending the launch of the UK-India Year of Culture 2017 in London, selected a shin-length metallic lace dress by the British fashion designer.

Meanwhile, Sophie dazzled in the floor-length version, which also incorporated semi-sheer sleeves and a pleated skirt, for the 2022 Royal Variety Performance, some five years later.

The Duchess later rewore this dress during her visit to Canada in 2023 as Colonel-in-Chief of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment, and Patron of Toronto General and Toronto Western Hospitals.

Kate and Sophie wore forest green trouser suits in 2023 and 2023 respectively

In September of last year, Kate paid a visit to the leading Yorkshire textile mill, AW Hainsworth, in Leeds. 

She recycled a forest green trouser suit by Burberry, adding a crisp white Holland Cooper bodysuit and Emmy London block heels. 

The Princess first wore the tailored two-piece when she welcomed Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway to the UK earlier in the year.

Following in the Princess’s fashionable footsteps, Sophie stepped out wearing a comparable trouser suit by Victoria Beckham in January.

Both immaculate ensembles incorporated a longline single-breasted blazer and high-waisted wide-leg trousers.  

The royal duo has both sported double-breasted blazers and Breton jumpers 

The Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh seem to appreciate tailored separates, as evidenced by both individuals wearing refined double-breasted jackets, paired with Breton tops and cigarette trousers.

Attending the 2024 British Cycling National Track Championships at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester, Sophie turned to one of Kate’s favourite brands, Alexander McQueen, for her navy blazer. 

Sophie added a Frame striped cashmere sweater, her trusty Prada boots and an Isabel Marant embellished shoulder bag. 

Two years earlier, Kate wore an almost identical double-breasted design by Holland Cooper, with an Erdem cashmere sweater, during a visit to Scotland with Prince William. 

Kate showcased an azure wool coat in 2024, while Sophie sported one in 2018

Kate and Sophie share a unique bond, having both come from relatively modest backgrounds before they married into the Royal Family. 

The duo’s closeness clearly extends to their fashion choices as depicted in two magnificent cornflower blue looks.

Kate debuted an Alexander McQueen coat dress during her and William’s first public walkabout in New Zealand in 2014. She later chose to rewear the same outfit for an engagement in Arromanches, a poignant tribute to the fallen on D-Day. 

Debuted during her and William’s first public walkabout in New Zealand, in 2014, Kate rewore an Alexander McQueen coat dress for an engagement in Arromanches, paying tribute to the fallen on D-Day.

Later in 2018, Sophie selected a Suzannah dress, custom-made in the same vibrant hue, to attend the Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate.

Sophie has reached for this coat several times since, including the Princess of Wales’ Together at Christmas carol concert, held at Westminster Abbey, last December.

Kate sported a khaki coat to the Royal Family Christmas Day service in 2022, while Sophie emulated her look the following year 

More recently, the royals donned strikingly similar festive ensembles. Kate sported an olive green military coat on Christmas Day in 2022 and Sophie emulated her outfit in 2023. 

The Princess’ coat, designed by Alexander McQueen, featured a stand-up collar, patch pockets and a pleated skirt.

She expertly accessorised with dark brown Stuart Weitzman boots, Dents leather gloves and a Philip Treacy hat. 

Equally elegant, Sophie’s Claire Mischevani coat boasted a funnel neck, bow detailing and a A-line silhouette that mirrored Kate’s.

However, she opted for contrasting accessories: Jimmy Choo croc-embossed pumps and a Jane Taylor boater hat.

The royals showcased camel wool coats two years apart – with Kate leading the way in 2022 

Earlier this month, Sophie replicated a tonal ensemble that Kate wore back in 2022. 

Visiting the Right Stuff Amateur Boxing Club, in Staffordshire, the Duchess kept the chill at bay in a camel-coloured coat, which looked incredibly similar to one worn by the Princess during an official visit to Scarborough.

Kate’s luxurious outerwear, hailing from Max&Co, teamed beautifully with her Gabriela Hearst dress, Ralph Lauren pumps and DeMellier bag. 

Also opting for complementary hues, Sophie chose a Reiss knitted dress, Gianvito Rossi suede boots and an Isabel Marant studded bag.

Kate wore a buttercup yellow Roksanda dress to Wimbledon in 2022 and Sophie sported the same dress in navy the following year

Seemingly drawing style inspiration from Kate, Sophie frequently replicates the Princess’s looks at royal engagements.

The royals have both worn Roksanda’s coveted Luna dress – Kate choosing a buttercup yellow version for the 2022 Wimbledon Women’s Singles Final and Sophie opting for classic navy during her visit to the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2023.

Cut to a calf-skimming length, the skirt is adorned in pleats for fluid movement, while the bodice features a bow-like fold at one shoulder.

The ladies heightened their outfits with neutral accessories: Kate choosing white Gianvito Rossi pumps, while Sophie complemented her look with pale pink Penelope Chilvers wedges.

Sophie showcased a satin coat dress in 2023 after Kate wore a similar style in 2014

Additionally, at last year’s Not Forgotten Association Garden Party, Sophie replicated the outfit Kate wore to the Opening Ceremony of the London Olympics in 2012.

The Duchess exuded elegance for the Buckingham Palace soirée in a Suzannah coat dress, teamed with a corresponding Jane Taylor hat, Strathberry mini bag and Moda in Pelle pumps.

Eleven years prior, Kate showcased an ice blue silk coat dress by Christopher Kane at the pre-Olympic reception and Opening Ceremony of the London Olympics. She repeated it at the Order Of The Garter Service in 2014.

The Princess’s demure coat featured a lapel collar, decorative darts and front closure with a belted waist.

The power duo both own navy double-breasted trouser suits as shown in 2023 and 2024

Earlier in March, Sophie championed Kate’s newfound love for tailoring, choosing a navy two-piece by one of Princess’s most-loved labels, Max Mara. 

The modish set combined a double-breasted jacket and wide-leg trousers, much like Kate’s Holland Cooper suit.

Kate showcased her classic pinstripe look twice in October 2023, pairing it alternatively with a cosy roll neck and a slinky bodysuit. 

The Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh have much common, in terms of background and outlook, sharing a pragmatic and stoic nature.

Their outfit choices add another layer to the duo’s cherished friendship.

PEOPLE living in an iconic housing estate have revealed their home deposits that once cost £5 are now selling for 59,000 times more.

The Stockbridge Colonies in Scotland were built for poor families, but are now considered the most desirable neighborhoods.

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The estate was built in the 1860s in an attempt to house Scotts during Edinburgh’s population growth during the Industrial Revolution.

The buildings, built by the Edinburgh Co-operative Building Company, could accommodate up to 7,000 people.

At the time, neighbors would secure a top or bottom floor apartment for which they only had to pay a £5 deposit – which could be paid within 20 years.

But what was once home to struggling workers is now worth a whopping £295,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Despite the increase in value, residents claimed the area is still community-driven.

HISTORICAL GEM

Jessie Deopp, who moved from the US, praised the estate for its historic charm and for being family-oriented.

The virtual assistant said: “It was the community in the town that attracted us – we were really looking for a place to raise our small family.

“We had heard such wonderful things about the colonies and how they are filled with little children and young families. It feels like a small community in a big city.

“We got a glimpse of it springand everyone was outside doing laundry, gardening, or just walking and getting outside – it’s very social.”

She also revealed how she chose Stockbridge for its iconic history.

The mother-of-two added: “We are really attracted to the historical element. That’s another reason we chose the Stockbridge Colonies: it’s nice to live in a place with so much history.

“It makes you think about who lived here and what experiences they had. It’s really cool to have the original fireplaces and exposed brick, and the tall windows.

“We really have a thing for historic charm!”

RISING PRICES

Fellow resident Bill Brownlee, who lived on the estate for almost three decades, bought his lower floor flat for just £55,000.

While he admits the area has changed in recent years, he claims the community still clings to age-old traditions.

He said: ”There are many events taking place throughout the year which increase community spirit.

‘At Christmas we have a ceilidh where the tickets initially go to the residents of the colonies, and then if there are any tickets left, other people can come to the ceilidh.

“There will also be an annual yard sale coming up in May, with about 30 homes able to participate.”

However, Bill admitted that skyrocketing prices and rents have made it more difficult for young people to buy a home on the estate.

The 72-year-old added: “I bought my apartment almost 30 years ago, and I couldn’t afford to buy it now – I think that’s unfair to people coming in,” he said.

“Mine was advertised for £58,000 and needed some repair work. I think I got it for around £55,000. That seems like nothing now, but almost 30 years ago that was still a fair amount to pay.

The historic buildings are currently Grade II listed and protected by Edinburgh Council.

Real estate experts explained that the area has gained popularity in recent years due to its ideal location.

Francesca Hill of estate agent Coulters said: “The charm of the Stockbridge Colonies continues to attract buyers, both locally and from further afield.

”These characterful properties have a unique appeal, being both peacefully situated on the Water of Leith and within walking distance of Edinburgh city center and its main attractions.

“The Colonies attract a variety of buyers, from first-time buyers and investors who mainly purchase the lower 1 and 2 bedroom Colonies, to couples and families attracted to the larger double upper flats.”

It comes as Scotland’s cheapest apartment hit the market for just £1,000, but there’s a big catch.

The path on an estate 72 kilometers south of Glasgow is one of the cheapest on sale in Britain.

Britain’s cheapest estates

RESIDENTS who bought their homes for £1 on Britain’s cheapest housing estate have revealed how they are saving hundreds of pounds.

The lucky locals took advantage of the scheme which saw them buy a property on the £34million Marches estate in Wolverhampton for just a pound.

The development sells two, three and four-bedroom homes under a ‘help-to-buy’ scheme, allowing residents to purchase them after 25 years of renting.

As part of their plans, they can build up a loyalty bonus and then buy their house for £1.

And while the plan sounded “too good to be true,” residents say the reality is even better than they hoped.

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A MAJOR bakery chain is about to close one of its stores, but customers are all left with the same thoughts.

Greggs, which has more than 2,000 UK branches, is permanently closing its branch in the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, Edinburgh.

The sausage roll maker said the branch will close for good before the shopping center undergoes a massive revamp, but did not reveal an exact closing date.

Greggs said all staff working in the branch will be relocated to a nearby store, meaning no jobs will be lost.

Locals and pastry chefs alike will no doubt be disappointed by the closure of the site, which has the “best sausage rolls” according to one Google reviewer.

But others commenting on the closure have all highlighted one thing in particular: how deserted the Ocean Terminal Shopping Center is.

One said: “Another bites the ghost town mall dust.”

A second said: “definitely not a busy shopping center anymore”, while a third said: “every time I’m there it’s always empty.”

And a fourth added: “It’s a ghost town with hardly any shops open.”

It comes after Greggs confirmed it had earmarked another branch in Bristol for closure.

It also closed a branch in Reading last month, in a blow to pastry lovers.

It’s not all bad news for the chain, however, as it significantly expands its presence in the UK.

Last June, the company announced plans to add 150 new stores to its books by the end of the year.

The chain also has plans to expand its portfolio from 2,300 UK branches to 3,000 in the long term.

Last week it was announced that thousands of staff will receive a bonus of more than £700 after the baker made record profits last year.

The high-flying chain will split £17.6 million between 25,000 employees who have worked there for at least six months.

It comes as the chain revealed its Easter menu exclusively to The Sun – and there won’t be long wait.

Foodies can buy everything from sweet potato bhajis and rice for £3.35, smoky Cajun rice with BBQ chicken and sweetcorn fritter for £3.35 and feta and tomato pasta for £3.25.

How to save money with Greggs

Superfan Tony Collins previously revealed to The Sun his three top tips for saving money at the bakery chain.

He urged customers to use the Too Good to Go app, which allows you to buy products at huge discounts that will soon become obsolete.

Tony said he bought a bag for £2.95 which contained three steak fry, three baguettes, three sausage rolls, two biscuits and a couple of doughnuts.

He also said it’s worth signing up to the Greggs app, which gives out freebies like sweet treats on your birthday.

The chain is known for occasionally giving away free slices of pizza to customers who are new to the app.

In addition, Tony said that it is worth going to Greggs stores, where goods are sold at low prices, usually because they are slightly outdated.

The Sun has contacted the Ocean Terminal Shopping Center for comment.

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He is a little-known actor, with few major roles to his name.

And as for the media profile, it’s virtually non-existent, and he even deleted his Instagram account.

Yet he has been named one of the world’s most eligible bachelors by society bible Tatler, and will one day inherit the entire 13,500-acre Althorp estate, where Diana, Princess of Wales, grew up.

When his father – Diana’s brother Charles – dies, Louis Spencer will assume his title and become the 10th Earl Spencer.

Earl Spencer, brother of Princess Diana, with his children: Amelia, Eliza, Kitty and Louis at the official opening of the Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens in 2000

Born on March 14, 1994 at St Mary’s Hospital in London, Louis is the only son of Princess Diana’s brother Charles Spencer, 9th Earl Spencer, and his first wife, Victoria Aitken.

Viscount Althorp and Prince Harry at the wedding of Celia McCorquodale and George Woodhouse in June 2018

Added to this is the stunning Grade II listed Georgian house and land estimated to be worth more than £100 million.

With its 90 rooms, extensive collection of valuable art and furniture – and 28 listed buildings and structures within the grounds – Althorp, in Northamptonshire, has been the family seat of the Spencer family for more than 500 years.

Today Louis, who lives in London, turns 30. Although he has three older sisters, male primogeniture means he will be the sole heir to this fortune.

Louis, who already holds the title of Viscount Althorp, is the youngest child and only son his father had with his first wife, Victoria Aitken (née Lockwood).

Born on March 14, 1994 at St Mary’s Hospital, London, he was raised by his mother in South Africa after his parents’ divorce. While living in Cape Town, he studied at the city’s most expensive private school, Diocesan College, where fees amount to the equivalent of £13,955 per year.

He later returned to Britain to study at the University of Edinburgh.

Like his cousins ​​Princes William and Harry, Louis went on to study acting at the ArtsEd drama school in Chiswick, London. He performs under the stage name Louis John Lyons and signs with the talent agency Tavistock Wood, whose stars include Dominic West and Lily James.

Unlike his older sisters, Lady Kitty, 33 – who has also modeled for Dolce & Gabbana – and twins Lady Amelia and Lady Eliza, 31, who were Tatler cover stars, Louis avoids social media and high-profile events.

Tatler described the strawberry blonde heir as “tall, warm-hearted and very handsome, but ‘super private’.”

And the Daily Telegraph last year went so far as to call Louis the ‘reluctant poster boy of male primogeniture’.

Earl Spencer, 59, has spoken out to say he will stick to tradition and choose Louis as his heir.

In 2015 he said: ‘If I were to choose Kitty it would be against the tradition that is part of Althorp. It’s just the way it is. I understand the problems with it as a concept.

“I also understand the strengths of the fact that it has worked so far. It is still intact. If you walk around the Loire castles or whatever, they’re empty.

‘Everything is distributed equally throughout the generations and you get a beautiful building with one beautiful tapestry in it. The whole point of the birthright was to keep it together.”

Louis has a close bond with his sisters.

He walked his eldest sister Kitty down the aisle at her Italian wedding, in place of their father, who was controversially not present.

As children they had a privileged but private upbringing in Cape Town, where Earl Spencer and Victoria moved in 1995 to raise their children away from the public eye.

The couple divorced in December 1997, months after Diana’s death, and Charles moved back to Britain shortly afterwards.

Aside from a handful of photo calls with his father, Louis was largely kept out of the spotlight.

His first high-profile appearance was at Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding in April 2011, although the 17-year-old was outshined by his glamorous blonde older sisters.

Four years later, Louis unexpectedly appeared on rapper Nicki Minaj’s Instagram feed.

He was seen with his arm around the American star, with the singer cheekily captioning it ‘check out our wedding photo’.

Louis first came into the spotlight at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in 2018, when he accompanied his mother and sisters.

Dapper in a morning suit, Louis became one of the unlikely stars of the day, receiving dozens of playful marriage proposals from smitten social media users.

Louis Spencer and his mother, Victoria Aitken, at Tatler’s English Roses 2017 at the Saatchi Gallery in London

Thanks to male primogeniture, Louis will one day inherit the house of Althorp

The Spencer family pictured at the 10th anniversary memorial service for Diana, Princess of Wales at the Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks in August 2007

Louis walked his eldest sister Kitty down the aisle with their half-brother Samuel Aitken at her Italian wedding – instead of their father

Their close brother-sister relationship is said to be partly due to the fact that they received a private upbringing in Cape Town.

Aside from a handful of photo calls with his father, Louis was largely kept out of the spotlight

His appearance and strong family resemblance also earned him the nickname ‘Harry Lite’.

His family ties and appearance will undoubtedly come in handy when Louis decides to pursue his dream of becoming an actor.

In 2019, his father Charles Spencer revealed: ‘Louis lives in London. He is an actor at drama school and works very hard and I want him to be able to realize his dreams in that direction. It’s full speed: he works fourteen-hour days.’

However, it remains to be seen how he can balance a burgeoning career with the extensive responsibility of managing Althorp when the day comes.

Whether it’s splashing flowers or preparing a delicious meal, everyone has their own way of impressing a potential partner.

But for these house-proud penguins, it’s all about the chicest bachelor pad.

As mating season approaches, Edinburgh Zoo’s gentoo penguins are busy getting their nests in good condition.

Using nesting rings and a collection of pebbles provided by the zookeepers, male penguins carefully selected the perfect stones to lure a loved one.

But there can be trouble in paradise, as penguins often skimp to get the best stones for themselves.

Gentoo penguins are native to Antarctica and can only build their nests from pebbles. This means that choosing the right pebble is the key to finding a partner

Edinburgh Zoo is home to the largest outdoor penguin pool in Europe with three different species and more than 100 individuals.

A large number of these are gentoo penguins, a small species native to Antarctica.

In the wild, these characterful birds make their nests on the rocky shores, where they collect the smooth pebbles to build nests.

And just like people, these penguins also propose by giving each other a nice shiny stone.

Male penguins select the smoothest pebble from their nest to present to their potential mate.

When she thinks the offering is good enough, the female takes the stone and places it on the nest.

Male penguins will offer the females the best pebble from their nest as a form of proposal

When the female penguin accepts the pebble, she takes it and places it on the next pebble. The pair will then work together to build a nest, mate and raise two eggs

The couple then work together to build a nest, in which the female lays two spherical eggs.

Gentoo penguins are devoted parents and often form long-lasting bonds.

During the incubation period of 33 to 35 days, the parents take turns keeping the egg warm while the others look for food.

This year the first eggs should be laid in April and we should see the first chicks hatch in May.

After about three to four months, these chicks are old enough to leave the nest and join a large nursery with other chicks, where they learn to swim and eat.

To help the penguins find their perfect mate, Edinburgh Zoo has provided the penguins with a collection of painted pebbles this year.

The rocks were painted by children supported by Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People.

This year, Edinburgh Zoo provided the penguins with colorful rocks painted by children from the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People

Pebbles are very important to gentoo penguins because in the wild they help keep their eggs above the ice and snow

The penguins carefully choose pebbles that allow snow and water to drain, keeping the eggs warm and dry during the month-long incubation period

But these pebbles are so important to the males’ chances of finding a mate that it sometimes leads to arguments.

Materials for building nests can be difficult to find on the frozen coastlines of Antarctica.

Some penguins even dive to the seabed to find pebbles, meaning it can take days, if not weeks, to build the right nest.

Faced with this daunting task, some penguins will turn to a life of crime and try to steal the best pebbles from their rivals’ nests.

Criminal couples may even try to hijack another couple’s nest altogether if it is left unattended for too long.

Some penguins find it easier to turn to a life of crime and steal the best pebbles from their rivals’ nests to build their own.

Competition for the best pebbles is fierce and often leads to neighborhood disputes among the zoo’s residents

But this isn’t just a matter of aesthetic choices or neighborly jealousy.

Without twigs, branches or leaves to build their nests from, pebbles are all the gentoo penguins can use to keep their eggs safe.

A sturdy base of pebbles keeps the egg above the icy ground and snow so it can survive incubation.

Choosing the right pebbles will allow water or snow to drain from the nest instead of accumulating on the surface.

This means that building a good, sturdy nest can be the difference between successfully raising a chick or the egg not hatching.

So while the eggs are unlikely to freeze in the Scottish spring, arguments and fights are common among zoo residents as the breeding season approaches.

By Eleanor Dye

Published: 12:18 EDT, March 11, 2024 | Updated: 1:38 PM EDT, March 11, 2024

This is the heartwarming moment a group of Scottish lads serenaded a total stranger on a train with a birthday song.

The woman, called Cathy, was celebrating her 78th birthday with her family on Saturday and was heading to the capital by train to Edinburgh Waverley station.

The retiree – who sadly recently lost her husband – was left beaming as the group broke out in her honor with a rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’.

The moving clamp showed the group of friends – Sam Michie, Liam Nelson, Liam Chrystal, Kian Byers and Kyle Connor – separated from the birthday girl by a set of train doors.

But that didn’t seem to stop them as they started belting out the song.

Cathy, from Scotland, was thrilled to be serenaded by a group of complete strangers on the train

Cathy’s family were stunned by the touching gesture with the camera showing a woman covering her mouth in laughter.

Cathy herself seemed eager to enjoy the moment, spreading her arms wide as she delighted in the singing.

The boys continued to sing as the camera panned around, pointing at Cathy and expressing their well wishes before letting out three hip-hurrahs.

The segment ended with Cathy left beaming from ear to ear, applauding the efforts of the impromptu male choir.

The video was shared online on Saturday with the caption: ‘Can anyone thank these young boys on the train to Edinburgh today?

“It’s my aunt’s 78th birthday and she has had a lot to deal with caring for her husband, who passed away early last month.

“These guys made our day, happy birthday Cathy.”

And Leanne Tervit, who was with Cathy, said: ‘These young boys didn’t have to ask twice and were more than happy to put a smile on our faces. Love it.

The group – Sam Michie, Liam Nelson, Liam Chrystal, Kian Byers and Kyle Connor – sang Happy Birthday to Cathy as the train approached Edinburgh

Those with Cathy also applauded the boys’ singing as they ended with three hip-hurrahs

“Young boys are having a hard time and these boys were nice.”

The video received more than 7,700 likes and more than 600 comments from Scots who were touched by the video.

Sam, one of the guys in the video, said, “This was me and my friends. Happy birthday, Cathy. Amazing woman.’

Another said: ‘Aw brilliant guys, well done.’

A third replied: ‘Amazing, happy birthday Cathy.’

Another replied: ‘Brilliant, well done guys, you probably made her day.’