Join us in the orchard for our annual Wassailing: a joyful winter gathering to sing, share, and mark the turning of the year together.
Led by Penny Stone, we’ll sing traditional and contemporary wassailing songs, spend time outdoors, and celebrate the season as a community. Apple-based food and drinks will be available by donation.
All are very welcome — whether you come to sing along, listen, or simply enjoy the atmosphere!
New measures will be introduced to make online public services more secure and resilient
£210 million plan to strengthen cyber resilience across government
Government Cyber Unit to coordinate risk management and incident response across departments
Leading firms with strong track record of cyber security to drive best practice through new Software Security Ambassador Scheme
New measures will be introduced to make online public services more secure and resilient, so people can use them with confidence – whether applying for benefits, paying taxes or accessing healthcare.
Backed by over £210 million, the Government Cyber Action Plan published today (Tuesday 6 January) sets out how government will rise to meet the growing range of online threats. Driven by a new Government Cyber Unit, the plan will rapidly improve cyber defences and digital resilience across government departments and the wider public sector, so people can trust that their data and services are protected.
It underpins UK Government plans to digitise public services. This will make more services accessible online, reduce time spent on phone queues and paperwork, and enable citizens to access support without repeating information across multiple departments. This approach could unlock up to £45 billion (note) in productivity savings by using technology effectively across the public sector.
However, realising these benefits depends on trust. As services move online, they must be secure and resilient. Cyber attacks can take vital public services offline in minutes, disrupting lives and undermining confidence. The new plan addresses this challenge head-on.
Released as the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill has its Second Reading in the House of Commons, the Bill sets out clear expectations for firms providing services to government to boost their cyber resilience.
From energy and water suppliers to healthcare and data centres, strong defences throughout supply chains will help keep the water running and the lights burning – facing down the cyber attackers who want to grind our country to a halt.
The plan will lead to:
clearer visibility of risks: shining a light on cyber and digital resilience risks across government, so we can focus efforts where it matters most
stronger central action on the toughest challenges: taking decisive, joined-up action across departments on severe and complex risks that no single organisation can solve alone with a dedicated team overseeing coordination
faster response to threats and incidents: reacting quickly to fast-moving cyber threats and vulnerabilities to minimise harm and speed up recovery by requiring departments to have robust incident response arrangements in place
higher resilience across government: boosting resilience at scale, with targeted measures to close major gaps and protect critical services
Digital Government Minister Ian Murray said: “Cyber-attacks can take vital public services offline in minutes – disrupting our digital services and our very way of life.
“This plan sets a new bar to bolster the defences of our public sector, putting cyber-criminals on warning that we are going further and faster to protect the UK’s businesses and public services alike.
“This is how we keep people safe, services running, and build a government the public can trust in the digital age.”
Today’s plan is also bolstered by further steps to take the UK’s cyber defences further and faster.
A new Software Security Ambassador Scheme will now help drive adoption of the Software Security Code of Practice – a voluntary project designed to reduce software supply chain attacks and disruption.
Software underpins the economy as a core component of all technologies that businesses rely on. Yet weaknesses in software can cause severe disruption to supply chains and the essential services the public use every day with more than half (59%) (note) of organisations experiencing software supply chain attacks in the past year.
These issues can be addressed by embedding basic software security practices across the software market. Among others, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, Sage, Santander and NCC Group will come on board as the scheme’s ambassadors, championing the Code across sectors, showcasing practical implementation, and providing feedback to inform future policy improvements.
Cyber risk to the public sector remains high. The plan responds with £210 million to spark a step change in public sector cyber defences, holding organisations to account for fixing vulnerabilities. This includes setting clear minimum standards and investing in more hands-on support to minimise the impact when incidents do occur.
Cyber resilience is central to the government’s mission of national renewal. Secure, reliable digital public services help protect citizens, support growth, and deliver better value for taxpayers, while maintaining trust in the services communities rely on every day.
Thomas Harvey, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Santander UK said: “We are pleased to be an ambassador for the UK government’s Software Security Code of Practice and it reflects our broader commitment to collective resilience.
“By advocating for these standards we’re not just protecting Santander and our customers, we are helping to build a more secure digital economy for everyone.”
The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGORR) convened yesterday to discuss ongoing efforts to recover from the recent heavy snow in northern Scotland and preparations for further snow and ice warnings.
The meeting was chaired by Justice Secretary Angela Constance and attended by First Minister John Swinney, Cabinet Secretaries, the Met Office, transport operators, Police Scotland, local authorities, resilience partnerships and utilities companies.
First Minister John Swinney has asked people to continue to follow advice on staying safe in winter and thanked those involved in supporting others.
Mr Swinney said yesterday: “The cumulative impact of the heavy snowfall across northern Scotland has been significant and there has been a huge effort to keep transport moving and public services open.
“At present, there is still some travel disruption but trunk roads are open and rail, ferry and air services are working to get back to normal as quickly as possible. Likewise many schools are closed today but remote learning is in place for young people, while contingency plans are in place for affected health and social care services.
“There will be further snow and ice, with yellow warnings in large parts of Scotland and temperatures set to remain cold, so impacts will continue to be felt in the coming days which could include transport problems and I would encourage everyone to plan ahead, look out for each other and pay close attention to the range of weather and travel advice available.
“I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard, day and night, to keep Scotland open and moving. Public services have been collaborating well in sharing information and vehicles, while I have heard of truly exceptional efforts by farmers, volunteers and members of the public offering to clear local roads, dig out cars and keep people safe. That community spirit is truly heartening to hear.
“Ministers will continue to keep the situation under review.”
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said: “Local resilience partnerships are continuing to meet to co-ordinate and deliver the response to disruption experienced by communities in the north and north east of Scotland following heavy snowfall over the weekend.
“We have been working closely with resilience partners across local authorities, other emergency service partners, transport partners, NHS and health and social care partnerships, and other local organisations to support communities affected by adverse weather and keep public services open where possible.
“Some services may be impacted by adverse weather, and I would encouragethe public to check on neighbours or relatives, if they are able to do so safely.
“Heavy snow and ice means driving conditions are likely to continue to be hazardous in some areas. Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary.
“If you need to travel, please fully clear your vehicle windows of snow and ice before you drive, drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.”
Amber snow warnings in place in Scotland, with much of UK in yellow alert.
In 2024, 47 people were killed, 734 were seriously injured, and 2,204 were slightly injured in reported road collisions on Great Britain’s roads where the road surface was slippery due to weather conditions.
Many UK drivers return to work this week amid cold snap
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is warning motorists to take extra care as freezing temperatures and icy conditions grip the UK this week. With many people returning to work after the festive break, the safety charity says winter weather is creating challenging road conditions nationwide.
RoSPA advises motorists to plan journeys carefully, check vehicles before setting off, clear all snow from windscreens, thoroughly de-ice their vehicle, and adapt driving styles to suit conditions. Key steps include reducing speed, increasing braking distances, and carrying emergency supplies such as warm clothing and a charged mobile phone.
Winter weather can create a range of risks, with braking distances up to ten times longer on icy roads. Snow, fog, and flooding add further hazards, making road conditions challenging.
Key Safety Advice for Drivers:
Avoid unnecessary journeys: If conditions are extreme, consider delaying travel or working remotely where possible.
Prepare your vehicle: Check lights, brakes, tyres, battery, and fluid levels. Stock up on de-icer, screen wash, and anti-freeze. Ensure that before setting off, you have thoroughly de-iced your vehicle and cleared any snow.
Carry an emergency kit: Include a shovel, tow rope, warm clothing, blankets, food, water, and a fully charged mobile phone.
Plan ahead: Monitor weather and travel updates, keep your fuel tank topped up, and let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
Allow extra time for your journey: Challenging conditions require slower speeds and greater care. Leave extra time for your journey and for preparing your vehicle safely before leaving.
Adapt your driving:
Reduce speed and increase the distance between vehicles in front of you—braking distances can be up to 10 times longer on icy roads.
Avoid sudden braking or acceleration and steer gently.
Use dipped headlights in poor visibility and keep windows clear.
Specific hazards:
Snow/Ice: Drive slowly, avoid sudden movements, and clear all snow from your vehicle before setting off.
Floods: Avoid deep water and do not attempt to drive through if the water seems too deep. If unavoidable, drive slowly in first gear and test brakes afterward.
Fog: Use fog lights when visibility is poor, reduce speed, and never park on the road without warning lights.
Strong winds & low sun: Hold the wheel firmly, give extra space to cyclists and high-sided vehicles, and keep windscreens clean to reduce glare.
If you become stranded: Stay with your vehicle and call for assistance rather than attempting to walk in severe conditions.
Rebecca Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “With many people heading back to work this week, it’s vital to plan ahead and drive cautiously.
“Winter weather demands extra care. By preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving style, you can help keep yourself and others safe.”
First Minister John Swinney will propose Monday 15 June 2026 is designated a national bank holiday to mark Scotland’s participation in the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
This will allow individuals, businesses and other organisations in Scotland to celebrate after the men’s team play their opening game against Haiti in Boston.
The First Minister said: “Scotland qualifying for the men’s World Cup was a remarkable achievement and a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark reminded us all what football means to the country.
“This year, we want to make the most of this huge opportunity for Scotland and ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to celebrate the team’s success.
“Not only is this an historic sporting event, it’s also a chance for Scotland to be on the world stage, to attract business development, create tourism interest within the country and to make cultural and sporting connections.
“That is why I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be national bank holiday, so that – no matter the outcome of the match – we can all come together to share the occasion.”
As temperatures drop and heavy snowfall is forecast across the UK, motorists are being urged to keep a “snowed-in survival kit” in their cars and vans.
Motoring experts at LeaseLoco say there are ten essential items every driver should have on hand during wintry weather.
Some, like de-icer and ice scrapers, are often found in most cars in winter, but the list also includes less obvious must-haves such as shovels and even pieces of old carpet.
Drivers are advised to carry warm clothes and high-visibility gear, plus a hazard warning triangle to stay safe if they get stuck in the dark.
A wind-up torch, phone charger, and jump-start kit are also recommended for emergencies.
Old rugs or carpet can give wheels extra grip if a car gets stuck, while a shovel and some basic provisions – water, snacks, or a hot drink – can make a long wait much more bearable.
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site LeaseLoco.com said: “Breaking down is bad any time of the year, but breaking down in the snow is particularly dangerous and stressful, especially if you’re unprepared for the cold and icy conditions.
“The worst thing of all is if you’re stuck somewhere in the snow and you haven’t got what you need to stay safe or get moving.
“So we’ve put together a list of everything you might need to help drivers get prepared.
“Remember also to drive appropriately for snowy conditions. Slow down, keep a longer stopping distance, and use lower gears when necessary – especially going downhill. Braking, accelerating, and gear changes should always be smooth and gentle.”
Ten items to keep in your “snowed-in survival kit”:
Warm/high-vis clothes
Keep extra layers, gloves, hats, and a high-visibility vest in the car. They’ll protect you from the cold and make sure you’re seen if you need to step outside in poor weather or low light.
Ice scraper/de-icer
Only use specialist tools to clear ice and frost from your windscreen. Avoid makeshift alternatives that could scratch or damage the glass.
Shovel
A compact snow shovel can be a lifesaver if your car gets stuck. Use it to clear snow from around your wheels or dig a path if needed.
Carpet/rug
Small pieces of carpet, mat, or even cardboard can give your wheels extra traction if you’re struggling to move off on ice or packed snow.
Jump leads/power pack
Cold weather puts extra strain on car batteries. Jump leads let you borrow power from another vehicle, while a power pack lets you restart independently without relying on help.
Warning triangle
Keep one handy to place behind your car if you break down. It alerts other drivers and helps prevent accidents in poor visibility conditions.
Wind-up torch
Don’t rely on batteries – rechargeable or not. A wind-up torch ensures you’ll have light if you’re stuck in the dark or need to inspect the car safely.
Provisions
Pack water, snacks, and a hot drink in a thermos if you’re heading out in the snow. You never know how long you might have to wait for help if you get stuck, so stay hydrated and keep your energy levels up.
Phone charger/portable power bank
Make sure your phone stays powered so you can call for help, check weather updates, or contact friends and family.
First aid kit
Keep a basic first aid kit in the car. It allows you to treat minor injuries immediately until professional help arrives.
LeaseLoco is the UK’s biggest car lease comparison website, making it super quick and easy for drivers to filter and compare millions of deals from the UK’s leading car leasing companies to best suit their needs.
5.65 million people still need to file their Self Assessment tax return
Thousands of people celebrated the New Year by filing their Self Assessment tax return
6.36 million people head into 2026 with their tax affairs in order
Thousands of people got a head start on their 2026 resolutions by filing their Self Assessment tax return over the New Year.
With less than a month to the 31 January deadline, 54,053 customers chose to ring in the New Year by filing their tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The figures, show:
342 customers beat the bells by filing their tax return in the last hour of 2025
19,789 missed their traditional New Year’s Day walk or day in front of the TV to file their tax return instead.
3,927 people filed between 11:00 and 11:59 on 31 December – the most popular time to file over the two days
More than 6.36 million taxpayers have submitted their tax return so far, which leaves almost 5.65 million who still need to complete their Self Assessment. Those who miss the deadline could face an initial late filing penalty of £100.
“New Year is a great time to start afresh. What better way than to ensure your tax affairs are in order for another year than completing your tax return. If you have yet to start, the clock is ticking, go to GOV.UK and start today.”
Customers can start their tax return, save it and re-visit it as many times as they need to before they submit it. And, once they’ve sent it, the bill doesn’t have to be paid straight away, but does need to be paid before the 31 January deadline.
The easiest way to pay is through the HMRC app. Customers can also set up notifications in the app to ensure they know when payments are due so they don’t miss a deadline.
Customers who are unable to meet the tax return deadline need to tell us before the 31 January. HMRC will treat those with reasonable excuses fairly.
The penalties for late tax returns are:
an initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time
after 3 months, additional daily penalties of £10 per day, up to a maximum of £900
after 6 months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater
after 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater
There are also additional penalties for late payments of 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months. If tax remains unpaid after the deadline, interest will also be charged on the amount owed, in addition to the penalties above.
People who complete a Self Assessment tax return to pay the High Interest Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) can opt out and choose to pay it through their tax code via the new PAYE digital service.
Eligible customers need to notify HMRC to stop Self Assessment before the filing deadline. Where a tax return has already been sent, customers can choose to stop from the following tax year. HMRC will then amend their tax code and they will be registered to pay HICBC through PAYE.
Customers do not need to include their 2025 Winter Fuel Payment, or Pension Age Winter Heating payment in Scotland, on their tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year as payments received in Autumn 2025 will be recovered in the 2025 to 2026 tax return, due by 31 January 2027.
Self Assessment customers are at increased risk of being targeted by criminals and should never share their HMRC login details with anyone, including a tax agent, if they have one. HMRC scams advice is available on GOV.UK.
