Strange Town’s December 2025 performances are the perfect way to celebrate the festive season. With seven shows across three days — Friday 12th to Sunday 14th December — at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile, there’s something for everyone. Why not book a ticket and see for yourself?
In challenging times, access to creativity, connection and the arts is a necessity, not a luxury. Leith-based charity Strange Town works to ensure no young person misses out on the chance to get creative, offering free and subsidised opportunities to those who need them most.
Recently affected by the well-publicised funding cuts from the Edinburgh Integrated Joint Board (EIJB), Strange Town is working hard to sustain its vital support for young people.
Local people and businesses are encouraged to get involved — by buying a ticket to the show, joining ‘15 for 15’, Strange Town’s regular giving programme, or getting in touch to discuss other ways to help.
This support is crucial in securing the future of accessible arts opportunities, ensuring young people continue to benefit from high-quality creative experiences regardless of financial circumstance. Regular contributions also provide the stability needed during these uncertain times.
This December’s shows promise festive energy, fresh stories, lots of laughter and a brilliant showcase of young talent. Audiences can enjoy something new, feel festive, and know they are supporting a good cause — all at a family-friendly price.
Thank you to everyone who has donated already this year, it is much appreciated.
The £725 million package of reforms to the apprenticeship system will help to tackle youth unemployment and drive economic growth, with thousands more young people expected to benefit over the next three years.
Major £725 million investment to deliver more apprenticeships for young people and help match skills training with local job opportunities.
Young people to benefit from increased access to training with full cost of apprenticeships at SME’s covered by Government.
New wave of foundation apprenticeships in sectors such as retail and hospitality sectors to get young people into work.
Backing thousands more apprenticeship starts for young people through a £140 million partnership with local leaders.
50,000 young people across the country will be better equipped for jobs of the future through a major investment to create more apprenticeships and training courses.
The £725 million package of reforms to the apprenticeship system will help to tackle youth unemployment and drive economic growth, with thousands more young people expected to benefit over the next three years.
The latest funding includes a £140 million for a pilot where Mayors will be able to connect young people – especially those not in education, employment or training (NEET) with thousands of apprenticeship opportunities at local employers.
By partnering with regional leaders who best understand their local economies, these pilots will ensure young people can access training that meets the needs of employers in their area.
As part of the package, the government will also cover the full cost of apprenticeships for eligible young people under 25 at small and medium-sized businesses.
Removing the 5% co-investment rate for SME’s means that the training costs for all eligible under 25 apprentices are fully funded opening up thousands of opportunities for young people. This will make it easier for young people to find opportunities and remove the burden from businesses, making it easier for them to take on young talent.
Businesses will also benefit from a major boost in flexibility as new short courses in cutting-edge areas including AI, engineering and digital skills will begin rolling out from April 2026.
This includes working closely with the defence sector to develop a new suite of flexible, work-based training options to help employers upskill their existing workforce in the critical skills needed for future success.
Today’s announcement comes alongside plans to open up new waves of foundation apprenticeships in sectors such as hospitality and retail.
The reforms will simplify and modernise the apprenticeship system, making it more efficient and responsive to the needs of employers and learners. From April 2026, short courses will be introduced to provide more flexible training options and a new Level 4 apprenticeship in AI will also be introduced, supporting employers to develop the skills of their workforce.
The reforms to the Growth and Skills Levy build on the Prime Minister’s ambition for two-thirds of young people to participate in higher level learners – academic, technical or apprenticeships – helping more young people gain the skills they need to start their careers.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “For too long, success has been measured by how many young people go to university. That narrow view has held back opportunity and created barriers we need to break.
“If you choose an apprenticeship, you should have the same respect and opportunity as everyone else. That’s why the Government is investing £1.5 billion through the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy – creating 50,000 more apprenticeships and foundation apprenticeships for young people over the next three years.
“It’s time to change the way apprenticeships are viewed and to put them on an equal footing with university. This is a defining cause for this government and a key step towards our ambition to get two-thirds of young people in higher-level learning or apprenticeships.”
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “Every young person deserves a fair chance to succeed. When given the right support and opportunities, they will grasp them.
“That’s why we are introducing a range of reforms to help young people take that vital step into the workplace or training and to go on and make something of their lives.
“This funding is a downpayment on young people’s futures and the future of the country, creating real pathways into good jobs and providing work experience, skills training and guaranteed employment.”
The reforms are designed to tackle the sharp decline in apprenticeship starts among young people over the last decade – which have fallen by almost 40% since 2015/16 and shift the focus towards supporting young people into high-quality training and employment.
This latest intervention follows an £820 million investment guaranteeing every young person the chance to gain the skills they need for success and support to find a job. This package will create 300,000 more opportunities to earn and learn and provide guaranteed jobs to almost 55,000 young people.
Over the coming months, DWP and Skills England will work intensively with business on the right balance to further boost apprenticeship starts for young people while delivering the right flexibilities for business.
Skills England will drive forward, with the Office for Investment, the service to support major investors and help them navigate the skills system. It will also establish a new skills infrastructure development service to support businesses to get training for jobs off the ground as quickly as possible and support young people in their careers.
McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer Nick Collins said: “Apprenticeships are a critical pipeline for developing the next generation of talent. They provide an immersive pathway for young people to gain practical experience and learn in real world environments.
“At McLaren we recognise the importance of investing in people and skills to create the world’s most extraordinary supercars. We are proud to inspire and equip the next generation to continue this tradition of excellence.”
Craig Beaumont, Executive Director at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “Small businesses are incredibly enthusiastic about apprenticeships, and we are pleased the Government is taking steps to make the system more small business friendly.
“It will help unlock more local roles, meaning small firms can do what they do best – taking people on and giving them a great chance in life.”
Rt Hon Robert Halfon, Executive Director, Make UK, said: “Manufacturers support the Government’s commitment to a more flexible Growth and Skills Levy to boost investment in high-quality training.
“The development of foundation apprenticeships has been a positive step in ensuring that effective entry level routes into employment are there for young people.
Industry is also keen to work with mayoral authorities to recruit more young people into engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships. Enabling more businesses to invest in work-based training is critical to supporting more young people into skilled work, and mayoral authorities bringing together employers and young people will help this to happen.
Chris Perriton, Head of Learning Pathways, Marston said: “At Marston’s, we believe apprenticeships are a vital pathway for young people to build confidence, gain practical skills and unlock long-term careers in hospitality.
“We welcome the Government’s commitment to expanding opportunities and driving skills development, and we’re proud to play our part by offering high-quality apprenticeships across our pubs and support teams.
“These programmes not only provide hands-on experience but also the structured training and mentoring needed to help the next generation thrive in our industry.”
Dan Clarkson, Chief Operating Officer, Lee Marley Group said: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in sustaining the strength and capability of the construction industry. They give young people the structured development and real-world experience they need to carry essential craft skills forward, while building the confidence to pursue long-term, rewarding careers.
“As construction continues to evolve, apprenticeships help address skills shortages and uphold the high standards our built environment depends on. Supporting future talent is a responsibility we take seriously, and it remains central to everything we do at Lee Marley Group.”
The annual British Business Awards will take place on 30th April 2026 and will once again aim to raise a minimum of £1million for homelessness charity, Social Bite.
Following on from the success of last year’s event, which featured a stripped back performance from Sting and keynote from Sir Bob Geldof, this year the event will feature a special guest appearance and conversation with award-winning actor and humanitarian, George Clooney.
This year’s awards will once again be supported by NatWest Group and is set to attract some of the UK’s most prominent businesses, with up to 2000 business leaders in attendance.
Mr Clooney will attend both the British Business Awards being held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre on the 30 April as well as a special fundraising dinner being organised by Social Bite at Gleneagles Hotel on 29th April and will discuss his career in Hollywood and humanitarian work as the co-founder of the Clooney Foundation for Justice.
The actor was given a huge Edinburgh welcome when he visited the city and the Social Bite café in November 2015, helping raise awareness for the charity’s mission to end homelessness.
Last year’s British Business Awards’ finalists included blue-chip companies such as Dell Computing, HP, The PureGym Group, Scottish Power and Miller Homes alongside entrepreneurs and leaders from across the UK.
Alongside a conversation with George Clooney, the 2026 event will be introduced with remarks from awards patron Sir Bob Geldof and co-hosted by comedians Rob Brydon and Elaine C Smith.
Entries to the awards are now open with a wide range of award categories to enter including: Entrepreneur of the Year, Socially Responsible Business of the Year, International Business of the Year, Employer of the Year and Green Business of the Year. To enter, businesses are required to submit a 1000 word written application by March 13th.
There will be an independent judging panel made up of 18 key figures from British industry chaired by the former CEO of Unilever Alan Jope CBE, alongside Emma Crystal, CEO of Coutts Bank. and including Phil Urban, CEO of Mitchells & Butlers who own many of the UK’s best loved hospitality venues, and Vinodka “Vin” Murria OBE, a renowned software entrepreneur often known as the “Queen of Tech” having founded three tech companies with a combined a “multi unicorn” valuation of in excess of $2.5bn.
Josh Littlejohn MBE who is the event director of the British Business Awards and is the founder of Social Bite said: “George made such an incredible impact to Social Bite when he visited our café 10 years ago and we’re honoured to have him join us again at these events which help us raise much-needed funds to help end homelessness in the UK.
“Last year’s British Business Awards were a triumph. Not only did we recognise and celebrate some of Britain’s biggest success stories, we also smashed our target and helped to raise over £1.3m for Social Bite, alongside a special fundraiser at Gleneagles Hotel.
“This year’s awards are set to be even more exciting, and we couldn’t be more delighted to welcome back George Clooney to Scotland.”
Alan Jope CBE, Chair of the judging panel said: “The calibre of entries for last year’s British Business Awards was extremely high and we’re expecting an even higher standard for 2026.
“Despite challenging times, British businesses continue to show remarkable resilience and innovation. My fellow judges and I are very much looking forward to hearing about some of the incredible ways British companies are making an impact in their sectors and celebrating their success.”
Paul Thwaite, CEO of NatWest Group, said: “We are proud to sponsor the British Business Awards, and to continue our support for the life-changing work undertaken by Social Bite.
“These awards recognise the determination, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that sit at the heart of businesses right across Great Britain.By helping them to achieve their ambitions, we can drive innovation and growth throughout the economy and build a more prosperous, sustainable future for all.”
For further information on the awards or for more details on how to enter visit:
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) are calling on Scots to have their say on the future of the nation’s water environment.
The environmental regulator has launched a public consultation, Safeguarding Scotland’s Water Environment, about what it calls Significant Water Management Issues – issues that are having a significant adverse impact on the condition of the water environment and that it seeks to tackle.
The water environment is one of Scotland’s most precious natural assets. It supports a rich diversity of wildlife, contributes to people’s health and wellbeing and provides for the sustainable growth of Scotland’s economy.
Water experts at the agency have identified seven key focus areas for the next six-year water management cycle:
rural diffuse pollution (the release of potential pollutants from a range of activities such as agricultural run-off)
the physical condition of rivers
artificial barriers to fish migration (physical modifications to rivers built for water storage, navigation, water abstraction and crossings for road and rail transport)
sea lice from marine fish farms
water use (ensuring our water resources are resilient to a changing climate and managed within environmental limits)
wastewater and sewer networks
chemicals in the water environment
The consultation outlines the targeted work already underway to address these complex issues and sets out a recalibrated approach to achieving further vital progress with partners over the next period, in line with the evolving context.
Input from members of the public and communities is essential to ensure plans reflect local experiences, practical solutions and a wide range of perspectives across Scotland.
Respondents can have their say on the Significant Water Management Issues and offer their thoughts on the role this work could play in supporting climate adaptation, nature recovery and health and wellbeing.
Rachel Harding-Hill, Head of Environmental Resilience and Enhancement at SEPA, said: “Protecting and improving our water environment as a vital natural asset is fundamental to Scotland’s efforts to build resilience to climate change and to ensure that the needs of wildlife, people and the economy can be met and safeguarded into the future. This requires ongoing effective management of the issues that are having a negative impact in a catchment-wide approach.
“Our current proposals are at a formative stage, and we want to gather valuable evidence of the range of experiences and opinions, knowledge and ideas on this pivotal issue to inform our decision-making.
“We know people across Scotland share our respect and aspirations for our water environment and we look forward to engaging with them at this key stage of our planning.”
The consultation will feed into Scotland’s River Basin Management Planning (RBMP) – Scotland’s six-yearly framework for protecting and improving the water environment – which will be further consulted on in December 2026. The current RBMP cycle ends in December 2027.
The Scottish Government will partner with the British Council to undertake a scoping exercise exploring the establishment of a dedicated Export Service for Scotland’s arts and culture sectors.
The project, running from December 2025 to May 2026, will examine the challenges and opportunities facing Scottish cultural organisations and artists in accessing international markets, identify gaps in current support, and develop recommendations for a new service to boost cultural exports.
This exercise is part of the Scottish Government’s International Culture Strategy action plan and follows increased calls from across Scotland’s cultural sectors for enhanced support in navigating post-Covid-19 and post-Brexit challenges.
The music sector has been active with the STUC, Scottish Parliament’s Constitution, External Affairs and Culture Committee, and the Scottish Music Industry Association all calling for dedicated export support.
Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “As part of our International Culture Strategy, we continue to explore how best to support cultural export and exchange and help our culture and creative sectors to realise their potential on the international stage.
“British Council Scotland works across all art forms but doesn’t represent any specific sector, ensuring they give us the independent, evidence-based recommendations we need. They’ll also bring valuable international perspective by examining how other countries support cultural export, helping us learn from best practice models around the world.”
Norah Campbell, Head of Arts at British Council Scotland, added:“Supporting the international ambitions of the Scottish arts sector is at the heart of the British Council’s work.
“Cultural export is complex, sophisticated, and different art forms have very different needs. Some sectors for example require access to international galleries and major markets for showcasing opportunities that springboard international work, while others involve design and product export.
“This scoping exercise will engage with the Scottish cultural sector to understand these varied challenges and needs. We’re keen to hear from artists, organisations and practitioners across all disciplines. This input will be crucial in shaping recommendations that truly reflect what the sector needs to succeed internationally.”
The research will actively engage with Scotland’s cultural sectors through surveys, consultation groups, and in-depth interviews beginning in early 2026 and artists, agents, promoters, managers, and organisations across all art forms will have opportunities to share their experiences and expertise to help inform the recommendations.
Key art sector development organisations and international initiatives including Craft Scotland, Publishing Scotland, Made in Scotland, Showcase Scotland, the Scottish Music Industry Association will be consulted, alongside interviews with established cultural export services in other countries.
The study will deliver:
Analysis of export support needs across Scotland’s culture and creative sectors, mapping existing initiatives and identifying which sub-sectors could benefit most
Comparative analysis of cultural export support models from other countries
Recommendations on service functions and how they would relate to existing Scottish and UK organisations
Delivery model options appraisal
Cost estimates for establishing a pilot and/or full service
The British Council will work with specialist researchers to roll out surveys, analyse data, and draw international comparisons. The findings from the research and report will help inform the Scottish Government’s decisions on future support for cultural export and exchange.
A final report will be shared in the summer of 2026.
Independent councillor for Sighthill/Gorgie Ross McKenzie has joined the Scottish Green Party and has been welcomed as the newest member of the Green Group on Edinburgh council as a Green-aligned independent member.
The announcement means the Green Group now have eleven councillors, the same number as the ruling Labour administration and one more than the Conservative group.
Elected representatives who join the Scottish Greens are required by Party rules to sit as Green-aligned independents until the next election, but may join Green Councillor groups.
Cllr McKenzie’s application to join the Scottish Greens was unanimously approved by the party’s national council on Saturday 6 December. He has signed a collaboration agreement with the Co-Convenors of the Edinburgh Green Group, which covers how he will work with the Greens. He will represent the Greens on committees, but will not be a spokesperson.
Cllr McKenzie was elected in 2022 as a Labour councillor for Sighthill/Gorgie ward. He left Labour in 2023 after they formed an administration with support from the Tories and Lib Dems. Since then, Ross has sat as an independent, working on an issue-by-issue basis with the Green group of councillors to push for change in the capital.
Cllr Ross McKenzie said: “Since leaving the Labour Party, I have worked closely with my Scottish Green colleagues in Edinburgh to make a fairer, greener city for all.
“In the face of a disastrous Labour administration propped up by the Tories and Lib Dems, we need a strong left-wing alternative in our capital city, putting people and planet before profit.
“I’ve heard time and again from my constituents’ concerns about housing, social care, planning and public spaces, and I’m in no doubt that the most effective way for me to represent those concerns is by working as closely as possible with the Greens.
“Labour have abandoned their core principles of standing up for the working-class across our country, they would rather hold onto power with the backing of Tories than improve our city for people and planet.”
Edinburgh Green group co-convenor Cllr Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill said: “Green councillors have worked constructively with Ross since he left the Labour party, and have always found him to be highly principled and incredibly hard working.
“We are delighted that his Scottish Greens party membership application has now been approved, which will allow us to deepen our joint working with Ross to the benefit of everyone seeking a fairer, more equal capital city.”
Edinburgh Green Group co-convenor Cllr Chas Booth said: “I’m delighted to welcome Ross as a Green-aligned independent member of the Edinburgh Green Group.
“He is a passionate advocate for his constituents and has a deep sense of justice. More and more people who want to stand up against the far right, rather than pander to them and those who seek a fairer society through redistribution of wealth are finding a home in the Greens.
“As an unapologetically left-wing party, we welcome them and look forward to working with them in the future.”
Edinburgh Green Councillor for Sighthill/Gorgie, Dan Heap said: “Ross has been a dedicated local councillor during his time in Labour and as an independent, and is highly regarded by local people as a fighter for their interests.
“I am delighted to be working alongside him to help make the area we represent greener and fairer.”
Edinburgh’s Christmas’ Santa Paws event attracted over 100 dogs in festive outfits. The event took place on Sunday, 7 December in West Princes Street Gardens, the city’s premier family destination this festive season. It raised awareness of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, a local charity which was also fundraising at the event.
Furry friends (and their humans) also enjoyed games, photo opportunities with Santa’s elves, pet stalls including Bowzos Bows and Pure Pet Food and took part in a best dressed dog parade with winners chosen by the organisers: 3rd place went to Pisco, 2nd to Luigi and 1st to Winton.
The charity event raised funds for Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, which strives to support families who need help caring for their pets at home, as well as providing loving care, rehabilitation and rehoming services for animals who can no longer be cared for by their owners.
Santa Paws took place after the annual Santa Fun Run, also in West Princes Street Gardens, which each year raises funds for When You Wish Upon A Star, who grant the wishes of children aged 4–16 living with life-threatening or terminal illnesses.
The eventful, family friendly afternoon brought festive joy to all who attended, raising money for two important charities.
Life Raluy,Development Manager at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home said: “Today’s Santa Run and Santa Paws gathering was a fantastic celebration of people and their pets coming together for a great cause.
“We may not have broken a record this time, but the atmosphere was full of joy, kindness and community spirit. Every person — and every dog in a festive jumper — helped raise vital funds and awareness for animals who need us.
“We’re so thankful to everyone who joined us and made today so special.”
Edinburgh Leisure is celebrating one of its own as Josh Ward, Swim Teacher at its iconic Leith Victoria Swim Centre, scooped the Rising Star Award at the recent Scottish Leisure Network Group Awards.
The Scottish Leisure Network Group (SLNG) is a not-for-profit organisation for leisure and sport providers in Scotland. Founded in 2003, its purpose is to help members, such as local authority leisure trusts and university sports departments, share best practices, provide industry guidance, and develop benchmarking processes.
Josh’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. Starting out on Edinburgh Leisure’s Positive Destinations programme – an employability initiative supporting young people from deprived areas – Josh faced significant challenges. Surrounded by negative influences and lacking financial support, his future could have taken a very different path.
Instead, Josh embraced the programme, earned his lifeguard qualification, and began his career as a Leisure Attendant.
Recognising the need to create a positive environment for himself, Josh made the brave decision to transfer to a venue further afield, away from peer pressure. That move marked a turning point.
With encouragement from his manager, Josh trained as a Swim Teacher, gaining his Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification. Two years on, he’s not only thriving but inspiring others.
“Josh is a fantastic role model for our team and for the young people who come through our programmes,” said Louise Bathgate, Manager at Leith Victoria, who nominated him for the award.
“His journey shows what’s possible when someone is given the right support and opportunities. He’s passionate, committed, and always goes the extra mile for his swimmers and colleagues.
“Josh’s approach to swim teaching reflects the values of our organisation, creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-quality experiences for all his participants. He is known for building strong relationships with children and adapting his teaching style to meet individual needs.
“He has played a key role in supporting both participants and less experienced staff, particularly through our Care-Experienced and Active Communities programmes. His patience and ability to connect with others make him a trusted and respected member within his team.”
One customer commented said “Josh is doing a great job running the Skills & Development and Master’s swim classes. He’s always friendly, encouraging, and brings great sets for us to swim. His feedback on technique has significantly improved my swim times.”
Josh’s success comes as sportscotland celebrates Role Models in Sport this December, highlighting individuals who inspire others to get active and achieve their potential. Josh embodies that spirit – from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a trusted and respected Swim Teacher who makes a real difference in his community, said Jack Martin, Coaching Workforce Manager at Edinburgh Leisure.
Edinburgh Leisure offers a range of career pathways, from entry-level roles to specialist coaching and teaching positions. Josh’s story is a powerful reminder that a career in leisure isn’t just a job – it can be life-changing.
Find out more about careers with Edinburgh Leisure at:
Motorists are being warned about the dangers of aquaplaning, as experts share tips on how to stay safe on the roads during stormy weather.
Rainfall in the UK is on the rise, with winter 2023-24 the wettest on record,* making it vital that drivers know how to react in these challenging situations.
Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk urge drivers to check their tyre tread depth and significantly reduce their speed when it’s raining to help keep control during unexpected aquaplaning.
Also known as hydroplaning, aquaplaning happens when a layer of water builds up between a vehicle’s tyres and the road surface, causing the tyres to lose grip.
This can lead to a complete loss of steering and braking control, leaving drivers unable to manoeuvre safely until the tyres regain contact with the road.
Even a small amount of water can cause aquaplaning if tyres are worn or under-inflated. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, so it’s important for motorists to regularly check their tyres to ensure they meet or exceed this limit.
Drivers are advised to slow down when conditions are wet, as aquaplaning is far more likely to occur at speeds above 35 mph.**
It’s also important to avoid harsh acceleration, braking or sudden steering movements in rainy weather.
When the car is aquaplaning, drivers might notice the engine suddenly becoming louder, feel as though they’ve dropped the clutch down a gear, causing the revs to increase, experience lighter or unresponsive steering, or feel the back end of the car drifting from side to side, also known as ‘fishtailing’.***
In that situation, it’s crucial not to slam the brakes or turn the wheel sharply. Instead, drivers need to gently ease off the accelerator and keep the steering straight until the tyres regain contact with the road.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “As the weather across the UK gets wetter and stormier, motorists need to be on alert for dangerous driving conditions.
“Many drivers underestimate how easily aquaplaning can happen. Even a thin layer of water can be enough if tyres are worn or speeds are too high.
“It can be a frightening experience when you suddenly lose control of the car, and can result in serious accidents, so knowing how to prevent and manage aquaplaning is crucial at this time of year.
“Regularly checking tyres, slowing down, keeping an eye out for puddles and avoiding harsh manouvers in wet conditions, can all help improve safety while driving in the rain.
“Being aware of the first signs of aquaplaning is also important so that drivers can react calmly and safely. If the steering suddenly feels light or the car starts to drift, don’t panic.
“Staying composed, easing off the accelerator, keeping the wheel straight and letting the tyres regain their grip naturally is the best that you can do in this situation. Being prepared and aware of what’s happening is half the battle.”
Your tyres will have less chance of gripping the road if you’re travelling at a higher speed. There’s no magic “safe speed,” but experts say that cars travelling under 35 mph in an inch or two of water are much more likely to stay in control.
2. Check your tyre tread depth
The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but don’t wait until you’re right on the limit. More tread means better grip, especially on wet roads. If your tyres are starting to look a little smooth, it’s time to get them checked or replaced,**** driving with unroadworthy tyres can lead to fines, penalty points and could even invalidate your car insurance.
3. Keep tyres properly inflated
Under-inflated tyres can’t clear water as effectively, increasing the risk of aquaplaning. Check tyre pressures regularly, especially before long journeys. If you’re not sure what your tyre pressure should be, check your car manual or reference sticker on the inside of the doorframe.
4. Keep an eye out for puddles
Those big puddles might look harmless, but hitting one too fast can make your car lose contact with the road in an instant. Try to avoid waterlogged roads or drive around puddles safely – if you have to go through, reduce speed and proceed with caution. Turning your headlights on is recommended on rainy days to increase visibility, so other drivers can see you better and you have a better chance of spotting excess surface water.
5. Follow the track
If there’s a car ahead, their tyres will already have cleared some of the water from the road, leaving tracks behind. Driving in those tracks, while keeping a safe distance, could help your tyres maintain better grip.
6. Drive smoothly
Gentle steering, braking and accelerating are key when it’s wet. Take extra care on bends and avoid using cruise control, as it can stop you from reacting quickly if you start to aquaplane.
As a leading price comparison site, Quotezone helps millions of drivers every year compare and find savings on all sorts of car insurance, such as young, older and convicted driver insurance.
Christmas is often portrayed as a season of wall-to-wall joy and celebration. But for those of us who have lost loved ones, this season can sometimes feel heavy and complicated.
Our CEO Mark reflects on his own journey with grief at this time of year and offers tips for those who may be struggling during the holidays.
