Middlesbrough-born musician had hits with Driving Home for Christmas, On the Beach and The Road to Hell Chris Rea, the British singer-songwriter whose hits included Driving Home For Christmas, has died at the age of 74, a spokesperson for his family said. The statement said that he died “peacefully in hospital … following a short illness”. Continue reading...

Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news * Average mortgage for UK first-time buyer hits record high of £210,800 First-time buyers are taking out larger mortgages than ever before as rising wages and looser affordability tests allow them to buy properties that were previously beyond their budget. The average first-time buyer borrowed £210,800 in the year to September, a record high, according to analysis by Savills, the property agent. “Lower price growth supported buyer affordability and drove activity in the first half of the year, even after the April stamp duty deadline in England. In the second half of 2025, uncertainty caused by rumours of property tax changes in November’s Budget swirled, some from as early as August. This had an impact on pricing and activity, as sellers tried to entice nervous buyers. The market will soon benefit from the traditional boost in home-moving activity from Boxing Day. Rightmove’s Boxing Day Bounce is an annual event where we see many begin or resume their plans to move after the distraction of Christmas. Continue reading...

Judi Dench has commented on her current feelings toward Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein, who each played a part in the Oscar-winning actress’ life and career before their respective #MeToo allegatio...