Xmas on hold as more floods loom
CHRISTMAS preparations will be on hold for thousands of people up and down the UK as they brace themselves against the possibility of further flooding.
Hundreds of homes and businesses have been swamped with floodwater, from the southern-most parts of Cornwall to the Highlands of Scotland as winter rain falls across a land that is saturated to bursting point.
Despite a brief respite from the downpours yesterday, water levels continued to rise as rain washed down off hills to swell already torrential rivers.
Christmas commuters face more chaos
THERE is more misery for Christmas commuters today as flooding continues to hamper parts of the road and rail network.
People trying to get home to friends and family for the festive period will face a series of challenges on the railways.
A number of routes remain affected by flooding, while services are widely expected to groan under passenger numbers as those who were unable to travel over the weekend try to reschedule their journeys today.
Queen hails Olympic stars in speech
THE Queen will pay tribute in her Christmas broadcast to the nation’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes for inspiring all those who watched their achievements.
She will hail the “splendid summer of sport” and highlight how the sportsmen and women gave the spectators the chance to feel part of the “excitement and drama”.
For the first time the national address will be broadcast in 3D, a technological advance the Queen was happy to embrace.
Channel 4 relives its golden summer
GOLDEN scenes from the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics are shaping Channel 4’s alternative Christmas message.
Delivered by Australian comedian Adam Hills, the Christmas cheer recalls sporting glory from the summer – but also comes with a little political bite.
It is also just a little bit tongue in cheek.
Cameron delivers Christian message
DAVID Cameron struck an overtly-religious tone in a Christmas message to the nation today – quoting the Bible in an appeal for people to remember the armed forces and emergency services amid the festivities.
He said Britain “showed the world what we’re made of” in 2012 thanks to the Olympic and Paralympic Games and Team GB’s astounding medal haul.
But he said the end of the year was also a time to focus on the Christian message and said he would pray for everyone to have a happy and peaceful time “however you celebrate this time of year”.
