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Yesterday β€” 1 June 2024Main stream

β€˜More than my weekly wages’: London’s Paddington attraction and the growing cost of kids’ days out

1 June 2024 at 07:46

A family of four can pay Β£176 to see the latest immersive experience – one of many that is putting a strain on families hit by the cost of living crisis

As half-term drew to a close in England, families short on inspiration might have been grateful to learn of a new day out: on Friday, the Paddington Bear Experience opened its doors in London, promising a β€œunique and fun-filled interactive experience” spanning more than 2,400 sq metres (26,000 sq ft) and including themed rooms, character interactions – and marmalade sandwiches.

But the experience comes at a cost: with weekend ticket prices of Β£49 for adults and Β£39 for children, a family of four can expect to pay Β£176 for the 70-minute event – and a lot more should they wish to peruse the books, games and toys available to buy in Mr Gruber’s antiques shop afterwards.

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Β© Photograph: -

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Β© Photograph: -

Before yesterdayMain stream

Are consumers any better off after 14 years of Conservative government?

We analyse a key point of contention in the general election campaign: the government’s record on pay, housing, energy and food bills

It is a simple question – and it will be at the heart of the general election campaign. After 14 years of Conservative government, people are asking: am I any better off?

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Β© Photograph: Peter Byrne/PA

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Β© Photograph: Peter Byrne/PA

Almost a third of household smart meters not working properly, says Citizens Advice

22 May 2024 at 19:01

Charity says tech problems and poor customer service mean millions in Great Britain missing out on promised benefits

The number of gas and electricity smart meters that are not working properly is likely to be higher than government figures suggest – possibly 20% to 30% of the total – according to research from Citizens Advice.

The charity said millions of households were missing out on the promised benefits from smart meters due to β€œproblems with technology” and poor supplier customer service.

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Β© Photograph: True Images/Alamy

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Β© Photograph: True Images/Alamy

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