With the 2026 BRIT Awards just days away, a survey of 2,000 UK adults has revealed who they’d like to host the show, and the moments that have defined one of the music industry’s biggest nights.

Topping the list saw the Geordie presenting duo, Ant & Dec (18%). Alan Carr follows closely behind with 17% of the vote, while one in ten (10%) would happily see Jeremy Clarkson swap horsepower for star power and take to the BRITs stage.

And despite hosting the show five times previously, only 11% want to see Jack Whitehall pick up the microphone again.

The top five celebrities the nation wants to host the BRITs

Freddie Mercury’s final public appearance as he collected the Outstanding Contribution Award in 1991, was voted as the most iconic BRIT Awards moment, with nearly a quarter of the public (22%). More than three decades on, it remains a powerful reminder that the awards are about far more than trophies; they capture cultural moments that last a lifetime.

Top five most iconic moments in BRIT Awards history

It’s not just the on-stage antics that Brits have had their say on. It’s clear that old fan favourites are retaining the public’s heart with one in five Brits (20%) suggesting that Ed Sheeran deserves to walk away as the event’s biggest winner, despite being nominated for just one award.

On the flip side, only 7% think Olivia Dean – who currently tops the UK singles chart – should take the top spot, while just 4% of the public back Lola Young – even though the pair are up for the most nominations this year.

A spokesperson for Sky Bingo said: “The BRIT Awards never fail to serve up a moment – whether it’s a powerhouse performance, a jaw-dropping outfit, or the kind of on-stage chaos that has everyone rewinding their TVs.

“Our research shows that the nation might come for the music, but they stay for the mayhem. At Sky Bingo, we know a little drama keeps things interesting, and if these predictions are anything to go by, this year’s BRITs could be less ‘smooth sailing’ and more ‘hold onto your hats.’”

Inspired by the hit Netflix adaptation of Osman’s bestselling novels, Brio residents at the award-winning Landale Court development in Aberdeenshire have embraced the spirit of sleuthing made famous by Elizabeth, Ron, Ibrahim and Joyce – portrayed on screen by Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley and Celia Imrie.

In fact, Brio developments in Chapelton (Aberdeenshire), Stow-on-the-Wold (Cotswolds) and Hackbridge (London) boast their very own namesake sleuths with aptly named residents Elizabeth and Joyce getting into character, while others across the country are embracing similar traits – and having great fun with development-wide Thursday Murder Club-themed events and activities.

Elizabeth Peers, a resident at Brio’s Landale Court development in Chapelton, Aberdeenshire, is also loving embracing all things Thursday Murder Club and shared: “I, alongside my friends here, have always been an advocate of vibrant retirement villages but now more people know what ‘Coopers Chase’ is I’m guessing we’ll have lots more visitors wanting to join our wonderful community! There’s a touching line spoken by Ben Kingsley’s character Ibrahim about the joy of places like Landale Court where he explains that you can close the door when you want to be alone, but if you open it, there will always be someone there. Retirement is often perceived as an isolated or lonely period of life – especially if you have lost friends and partners – but being part of a community in our later years removes any of those worries and it’s just wonderful living here.”

Lesley Joyce, a resident at Brio’s Button House development in Hackbridge shared: “Many of us have loved reading the book during our book-club sessions and we’ve a red-carpet film showing planned and our very own murder mystery night – it’s all very exciting! And just like my namesake Joyce, I too adore cakes and have had lots of fun dishing out huge slices to fellow residents and visitors just as she does!”

There are numerous events and activities on the horizon for everyone across the trio of Brio developments – many being headed up by Sadie Birch, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Brio. She explains: “I’m thrilled Thursday Murder Club is proving such a nationwide success. We’re all huge fans here at Brio but the film digs deeper into the importance of companionship and friendship in later years – which is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“To build on that we’ve ordered in stockpiles of Richard Osman’s books for those residents yet to get the TMC bug! And we’re organising our very own murder mystery events across all three developments. We’re also going to be hosting red carpet events where we screen the film for all the residents to enjoy – everyone will be getting dressed up in their glad rags and sampling more of our very own Joyce’s cake of course! Thanks to Coopers Chase, our amazing developments are receiving more attention than ever and we’re all loving it!”

Brio Retirement Living provides independent, luxury living in Aberdeenshire, the Cotswolds and London, Brio has revolutionised modern retirement for its 55year and 65year plus communities, that have the opportunity to rent, buy or part buy/rent the properties.

For further information on Brio Retirement Living please visit www.brioretirement.co.uk.

The Paris Day Trip packages have been launched by leading experience provider Experiences.co.uk to cater for Brits’ love affair with the most romantic city in the world. 

Both experiences include travelling on the Eurostar with reserved seating and a mouthwatering three-course lunch, either up the Eiffel Tower or on a River Seine cruise. 

Dan Jones, operations manager at Experiences.co.uk, said: “We’re thrilled to launch these new day trips to Paris on board the Eurostar. 

“They are our first overseas experiences, and we’ve pulled out all the stops. The journey itself is incredible, but that’s just part of the appeal. 

“Once in Paris, a guided panoramic coach tour takes in some amazing sights, including the world-famous Champs-Élysées. 

“The only hard part beforehand is whether to book a tasty lunch up the Eiffel Tower or on the majestic River Seine.“ 

The Paris by Eurostar Day Trip with River Seine Lunch Cruise also includes half a bottle of wine per person, the river cruise itself and a photo opportunity at the Eiffel Tower.  

Menus are subject to seasonal change but main courses might include free-range corn-fed chicken supreme, tender beef miroton stew, fillet of gilthead seabream or confit seasonal vegetables and crispy tofu. 

Meanwhile, highlights on the Paris by Eurostar Day Trip with Eiffel Tower Lunch include the lunch at the fully renovated ‘Madame Brasserie’ which is run by two Michelin stars chef Thierry Marx and a one hour River Seine cruise. 

Once again, the menu is subject to seasonal change but could consist of an organic egg starter, free-range chicken and cider fricassee main course and upside-down choux puff dessert. 

For more information about Experiences.co.uk, and its new Paris day trips by Eurostar, visit www.experiences.co.uk.  

This summer, musicians can take centre stage at Buchanan Galleries as the Glasgow shopping centre launches a ‘Busk Stop’ – allowing young buskers to perform inside the centre at a dedicated busking area for the very first time.

Launching on Monday 30^th June, Buchanan Galleries will be shining a spotlight on the region’s young artists and performers, where they will be given the chance to perform in a safe space to a walk-by audience.

Buchanan Galleries’ ‘Busk Stop’ has been specially created for young local singers and musicians to perform live at the centre, bringing a vibrant atmosphere to guests. 11-year-old Glasgow singer, Rachel Ronnie will officially launch the ‘Busk Stop’ with the first performance on Monday 30^th June at 12pm – 1pm.

The ‘Busk Stop’ will be located by the flower wall at Buchanan Galleries and will serve as a centrepiece for aspiring young artists to engage with visitors, entertain, and showcase their talent during the summer holidays. Following the launch event, performances will be on a rotation schedule to ensure fresh entertainment for all to enjoy.

The centre is calling for young artists across the region to register to perform at its ‘Busk Stop’ free of charge. Performers will be able to reserve hour slots throughout the summer holidays and is available to both emerging and seasoned young artists. Musicians interested in performing at the ‘Busk Stop’ at Buchanan Galleries can register their interest via Buchanan Galleries’ website: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/en/articles-listing-page/busk-stop

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We’re incredibly excited to launch our ‘Busk Stop’ with Rachel Ronnie’s performance. At just 11 years old, Rachel represents the talent, passion, and creativity we want to spotlight throughout the summer.

“Glasgow already has a buzzing busking scene, and we’re proud to be able to provide a platform that supports the next generation of artists. The launch of our ‘Busk Stop’ not only provides a new layer of entertainment for our guests but also gives young local artists a platform to perform, develop their confidence, and share their talents, in a safe, welcoming and vibrant space, come rain or shine.”

The ‘Busk Stop’ will be available at Buchanan Galleries from Monday 30^th June. For more information about the ‘Busk Stop’ at Buchanan Galleries or to apply for a busking spot, please visit: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/

The community art piece will be touring the country gathering the public’s messages of love, unity, and acceptance on its journey. Guests can commit to one of the suggested pledges if they wish or leave a positive sentiment that feels appropriate to them, such as a dedication to a loved one.

The Tree of Pride will be at Buchanan Galleries on 20^th and 21^st July, and the public are invited to participate from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sunday.

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Tree of Pride at the centre over the Glasgow Pride weekend, and look forward to reading our guests’ messages celebrating inclusivity.”

For further details, please visit https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/

The community art piece will be touring the country gathering the public’s messages of love, unity, and acceptance on its journey. Guests can commit to one of the suggested pledges if they wish or leave a positive sentiment that feels appropriate to them, such as a dedication to a loved one.

The Tree of Pride will be at Buchanan Galleries on 20^th and 21^st July, and the public are invited to participate from 10am-6pm on Saturday and 11am – 5pm on Sunday.

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Tree of Pride at the centre over the Glasgow Pride weekend, and look forward to reading our guests’ messages celebrating inclusivity.”

For further details, please visit https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/

In an authentic Scottish tribute, Every Student has harnessed generative AI to recreate Scotland’s renowned Big Five animals, as identified by experts at The Scottish Natural Heritage. These iconic creatures, the Red Squirrel, Red Deer, Golden Eagle, Otter, and Harbour Seal, can now be seen proudly wearing traditional tartan patterns, reflecting the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage and wildlife. 

1. The Red Squirrel

A charismatic symbol of resilience, the red squirrel has fought back from near extinction to become a beloved resident of Scotland’s woodlands. With its tufted ears and bushy tail, the red squirrel is colourful and cute in equal measure, symbolising resilience and adaptability in the face of environmental challenges.

Best places to spot a red squirrel in Scotland

While red squirrels can be found scampering through almost any Scottish woodland, the pine forests of the Highlands and Dumfries & Galloway hold a special charm for these fiery furballs. With towering trees providing the perfect playground, these are the spots where you’re most likely to catch a glimpse of their vibrant red coats darting through the branches.

2. The Red Deer

Standing tall amidst the Highland landscape, the Scottish red deer commands attention as Britain’s largest land mammal, tipping the scales at a formidable <500 pounds! Adorned with majestic antlers stretching up to a metre in length, this noble creature has held a revered place in Scottish folklore for centuries, embodying the rugged strength and untamed beauty of the Highlands.

Best places to spot a red deer in Scotland

While red deer can be found in most large Scottish forests, some locations offer a better chance to witness these majestic creatures. Keep your eyes peeled in the vast landscapes of Kinloch on Skye or Glen Affric, known for their healthy red deer populations. For a guaranteed encounter, head to the Red Deer Range in Galloway Forest Park.

3. The Golden Eagle

The magnificent golden eagle isn’t just massive, with a wingspan that could rival a small plane, it’s the top predator in the Scottish countryside. The golden eagle’s nest is often used by successive generations to rear their own young. And speaking of family, these eagles are in it for the long haul as they mate for life. Embodying the enduring spirit of Scotland: strength, love, and family.

Best places to spot a golden eagle in Scotland

Golden eagles can be found circling above most of Scotland’s upland forests. Look for them soaring majestically above Argyll, Galloway, and Glenmore Forest Parks.  The Isle of Mull, with its dramatic cliffs, and Glen Affric are also prime spots to witness the golden eagle.

4. The Otter

Forget Nessie, Scotland’s wild waterways have another magical resident – the otter!  These playful acrobats weave through rivers and lochs with an agility that’s both mesmerising and infectious. But otters aren’t just cute – they’re perfectly adapted for their aquatic lifestyle. Webbed feet propel them through the water, while dense fur keeps them warm, even in the coldest Scottish waters. What’s more, they can even close their ears and nostrils when underwater!

Best places to spot an otter in Scotland

With a little patience, you might just catch a glimpse of an otter in the waters of Scotland’s many inland waterways and stunning coastlines. For a guaranteed encounter, head to the Kylerhea otter hide on Skye where you can observe these charismatic creatures in their natural habitat without disturbing them. 

5. The Harbour Seal

Whether basking on the shores or bobbing in the waves, harbour seals are a constant presence along Scotland’s coastline, making their home on sheltered beaches. But don’t be fooled by their relaxed demeanour – these enigmatic creatures are skilled hunters, using their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers to navigate the currents and catch their prey.

Best places to spot a harbour seal in Scotland

You can find harbour seals basking on beaches, sandbanks, or rocks all around the stunning Scottish coastline. For a guaranteed encounter, head to some of Scotland’s best seal-spotting locations: Kylerhea Otter Hide on the Isle of Skye, Tentsmuir Forest on the coast of Fife or Garbh Eilean Wildlife Hide on Loch Sunart.

So, there you have it – Scotland’s Big Five! From the regal red deer, its majestic antlers, a symbol of strength and resilience, to the glorious golden eagle, soaring high above the Scottish landscape and embodying the untamed spirit of the Highlands – these magnificent creatures are more than just wildlife. They are woven into the very fabric of Scottish tradition, just like the iconic tartan patterns celebrated on Tartan Day.

Dubbed “the dessert shop with a difference”, Batch’d first opened a permanent kiosk in 2022 in Leeds, and since has experienced huge growth boasting 23 locations across the UK supporting seven independent bakeries.

The new Batch’d kiosk in Buchanan Galleries will be located outside LEGO on the ground floor of the mall, packed with a huge selection of delicious baked goods including handmade artisan brownies, cookies and doughnuts supplied by an impressive roster of independent and local bakers. Plus, the Buchanan Galleries branch will be the first to offer customers a fresh and creamy organic ice cream range to enjoy alongside their baked treats.

Harry Clavane, Managing Director at Batch’d, said: “We have made an incredible start to life in Glasgow, and received a very warm welcome from the community, with regular sell-out days. We are very excited about opening site number three in Scotland at Buchanan Galleries which falls perfectly with the launch of the Easter product range.

“With more Scotland sites opening in the next few months and these recent additions, our network will span over 28 locations across the UK.”

Alongside the new retail launch, STAG Gallery & Framers located in Buchanan Galleries, is hosting one of the city’s most renowned portrait artists, Gerard M Burns, on 21^st March (Thursday) in an exclusive event to launch a showcase of the artist’s work, which will be on display in the gallery until 8^th April.

The exclusive and intimate free event on Thursday 21^st March at the independent gallery will showcase some of Burns’ most prolific and hyper-realistic original oil paintings for the public to view and give them the chance to meet the artist behind the work.

From 4pm – 8pm, visitors are openly invited to peruse some of the artwork by Burns whilst enjoying a glass of fizz or sampling a glass of fine Scottish whiskey supplied by The Whisky Shop.

His paintings, which will be on display in the gallery for three weeks, are known for their modern take on traditional themes and appreciated for their lifelike detail and can be found adorning homes and workplaces worldwide. One of his well-loved works, “The Rowan,” was proudly displayed behind the desk of a former Scottish First Minister during his time at the Scottish Parliament, and in 2016, his portraits of Former First Minister Alex Salmond and author Denise Mina were entered into the permanent collection at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

Cameron Reid, Owner and Gallery Director at STAG Gallery & Framers, said: “Gerard M Burns is a prolific artist and Glasgow native, and I’m so thrilled to be able to offer my space at STAG Gallery & Framers to him to showcase some of his most awe-inspiring artwork.

“As a business, last year we celebrated 10 years at Buchanan Galleries, and this is the first time we’ve been able to accommodate such a major showcase – we hope local art lovers will join us on this momentous occasion.”

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We constantly strive to offer our guests something new and exciting when they visit Buchanan Galleries.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Batch’d to the centre, offering the perfect pitstop for anyone with a sweet tooth; and the unique event at STAG Gallery & Framers provides a chance for the public to view the stunning artwork from Gerard M Burns, celebrate a Scottish artist honouring his Glaswegian roots and reflect on the master at work.”

For more information about Batch’d along with Gerard M Burns’ event at STAG Gallery & Framers, please visit: https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/.

• More than 1/3 (36%) of those asked said they would not invite someone with tricky dietary requirements to their Christmas dinner 

• Almost half of Brits (43%) say that a traditional Christmas dinner with all of the trimmings is their favourite meal of the year 

• Research conducted by Leisure Range Cookers has revealed that 59% said the most challenging part of cooking a roast dinner is getting all of the elements ready at the same time 

• In-laws voted the most stressful guests to cook for at Christmas (21%) 

Almost half of Brits (47%) hosting Christmas dinner admitted that they would lie and serve a vegan guest a non-vegan dish in a bid to make their lives easier. Furthermore, a shocking 36% of those surveyed admitted they’d avoid inviting anyone with any challenging dietary preferences to their Christmas dinner.

As we head into the much-anticipated festive feasting period, one of the UKs leading range cooker brands, Leisure, has conducted new research into the beloved traditional roast dinner to investigate how Brits really feel about hosting this season.

Today’s Christmas dinner guests often come with a whole host of dietary preferences, which can complicate the already hectic process of catering for friends and family. In fact, this research has shown almost 60% of those asked find getting all elements of a roast ready at the same time to be the most stressful part.

Creating a large roast dinner for guests who each have their own preferences and requirements can be a challenge – especially with limited oven space. This is why Leisure’s versatile range cookers are the top choice for hosts. The option to have up to three ovens and a grill enables cooks to create multiple dishes at different temperatures simultaneously. This means home chefs can focus on creating unforgettable memories with their guests, while the appliance takes care of the cooking. In addition to offering more cooking space Leisure’s 110cm Cuisinemaster range cooker (CS110F722) multifunction oven features a ‘keep warm’ setting that helps cooks to keep food at its optimal temperature for as long as needed before serving – an essential feature for Christmas Day!

Preparing the perfect Christmas dinner can be incredibly stressful for home cooks aiming to deliver a top-notch roast. As 43% of Brits say it is their favourite meal of the year, hosts are eager to meet their guests’ high expectations. Traditions passed down by older generations can also heighten these feelings of anxiety as cooks try to impress family members, with 21% saying that in-laws are the most stressful people to prepare a Christmas dinner for. Deciding on the perfect trimmings to serve with the Christmas dinner makes hosts worry even more, as opinionated Brits weigh in on the debate. Perhaps controversially, Leisure’s research has revealed that 64% of Brits think every Christmas dinner should include a Yorkshire pudding.

It’s not just Christmas dinners that cause Brits stress – the typical Sunday roast can be just as stressful an occasion, with research showing almost three-quarters (72%) of Brits can experience some stress when preparing a roast dinner.

Those who regularly commit to preparing a traditional roast know it’s not a simple skill to perfect, and executing it well needs staying power, as almost 40% of Brits spend at least four hours cooking a roast dinner.

Marketing Director at Leisure, Vijay Bhardwaj, said: “We were surprised to see so many Brits would be cheeky enough to lie to their vegan guests, but do understand the pressure that comes with hosting a Christmas Day that truly caters to everyone. Our range cookers are designed to help elevate customers’ cooking experience, and the option to have up to three ovens and a grill in just one appliance helps to simplify cooking for all of the family – no matter their dietary choices.

“This additional space means home chefs can simply pop the vegan alternative into its own oven while the rest of the dinner cooks in the other ovens separately. The ability to have multiple dishes cooking at the same time all at different temperatures means hosts can provide a delicious dinner for every guest while spending more time with loved ones, and less time in the kitchen.”

Adult Learners Week is a fantastic opportunity to embrace lifelong learning and discover new skills, interests, and passions. Whether you’re a busy professional looking to enhance your career prospects or a retiree pursuing a hobby, learning something new can be both personally fulfilling and intellectually stimulating. This annual event, celebrated in many countries around the world, aims to encourage adults to engage in education activities and highlight the significance of continual learning. So, what are you planning to learn this week?

For those interested in personal development, adult learning provides immense potential for self-improvement. It could be something as simple as mastering a foreign language or diving into the depths of the art of photography. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to learn to play a musical instrument or unleash your creativity through painting. Adult Learners Week serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and unlock new talents.

Furthermore, adult education is not limited to hobbies and interests alone. It can also be an incredible tool to advance your career. Acquiring new skills or upgrading existing ones can make you more marketable and open doors to better job opportunities. For instance, you might decide to enroll in a coding bootcamp to learn essential programming languages, or take online courses that teach digital marketing strategies. Professional development should always be a priority, as industries and technologies are constantly evolving.

The beauty of Adult Learners Week is that the options are practically endless. You can opt for traditional learning methods such as enrolling in a course at a local community college or university, or you can choose to explore the vast world of online learning. Websites such as Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer an extensive range of courses in various fields, catering to different skills and interests. Many of these platforms provide affordable or even free options, making education accessible to all.

In addition to structured online courses, there are numerous other avenues for learning. Podcasts and audiobooks are popular alternatives for those constantly on the move, allowing you to acquire knowledge while engaging in other activities such as commuting or exercising. Furthermore, YouTube has become a virtual treasure trove of educational content, with countless channels dedicated to teaching almost anything you can think of.

It’s important to remember that learning doesn’t always have to be focused solely on acquiring new skills or knowledge. It can also involve personal growth and self-reflection. Engaging in activities such as meditation, journaling, or attending personal development workshops are valuable ways to learn more about yourself and achieve overall well-being.

So, this Adult Learners Week, take the opportunity to invest in your own growth. Identify an area that piques your curiosity or aligns with your goals, and take the first step towards learning something new. Remember, it’s never too late to expand your horizons, acquire new skills, and foster personal development. Embrace the joy of learning, and you’ll discover a world of possibilities waiting for you.