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London transport network regularly dealing with Israel-Gaza hate issues

Senior police officers have told the London Assembly that the Israel-Gaza conflict hate crime on London transport remains elevated, even after a recent fall in reported incidents. Levels of hate crime across Transport for London services have not returned to those seen before October 2023.

Hate crime reports rose sharply in late 2023, with Jewish and Muslim communities particularly affected. While figures have since declined, officers said the impact of the Israel-Gaza conflict hate crime on London transport continues to be felt on the Tube, rail services and buses.

British Transport Police Ch Supt Chris Casey told the assembly’s police and crime committee: “International events play a really big part – they do generate increases in hate crime and we see those reports.”

He said the pattern had been clearly reflected on the capital’s transport network. Ch Supt Casey added: “Towards the end of 2023, we saw a big increase in terms of antisemitic hate crime.

“And that is in the context of the Jewish community actually being a very small percentage of the population and then even a smaller percentage of those who are Jewish that decide to travel anyway on the network.

“[There was] a massive increase – and we did see exactly the increase that the Met did as well.”

Data from British Transport Police shows that between January and August 2024, recorded hate crime across the public transport network increased by 27.8% year on year, rising from 1,551 to 1,982 offences. The figure later fell by 8.3%, from 1,383 incidents in 2024 to 1,268 in June 2025, but remains above pre-October 2023 levels. Officers said this confirmed the continuing influence of the Israel-Gaza conflict hate crime on London transport.

Mandy McGregor, TfL’s head of policing and community safety, said incidents had reduced by 8% since the peak of the conflict but warned they were still higher than before the war. “That’s from a peak when the Gaza-Israel situation [started]. So we have seen it come down, but it’s still higher than levels before October 2023,” she said.

Since the conflict began, London has seen hundreds of pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrations. Some have taken place inside major transport hubs, including King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations, adding further pressure to the transport network.

Ch Supt Casey said large stations were not an “ideal” setting for protests, but stressed that police must balance public safety, the right to protest and the operation of transport services. “As long as the station can safely operate and it doesn’t impact critical national infrastructure then we have to find a way to balance those rights as long as it’s lawful activity,” he said.

“So there may be things that are said that will shock and offend and that maybe we don’t like or people don’t, but there is that balance.”

Assembly members also questioned officials about subvertising, where political messages are placed over approved adverts, and whether such actions could amount to hate crime. This followed the appearance of marketing material calling for a boycott of Coca-Cola on some Tube trains, despite TfL’s ban on political advertising.

Conservative assembly member Lord Bailey said: “These would appear to be hate crimes, there’s certainly a large section of the public, myself included, who consider them a hate crime.”

BTP Supt Sam Painter said unauthorised advertising was removed once identified. “We do frequently see acts of what we call subvertising, so the subversion of advertising on TfL’s network for a whole variety of different political groups,” he said.

Newcastle 2-1 Fulham: Holders back into Carabao Cup semi-finals after late header.

Newcastle kept their Carabao Cup defence alive in dramatic fashion as teenager Lewis Miley headed home in stoppage time to earn a 2-1 victory over Fulham at St James’ Park and book a semi-final showdown with Manchester City.

Still feeling the aftershocks of their derby defeat at Sunderland, the Magpies produced a nervy but determined display and were ultimately rescued by a player barely old enough to remember the club’s long wait for silverware. Asked to fill in out of position at right-back, 19-year-old Miley delivered the decisive moment in the 92nd minute, glancing a corner beyond Benjamin Lecomte to send the home crowd into raptures.

Newcastle had started brightly and were rewarded early when Yoane Wissa marked his first start for the club with a poacher’s finish. Fulham goalkeeper Lecomte could only push a low effort straight into the striker’s path, allowing Wissa to tap in from close range and settle the home nerves.

That calm did not last long. Fulham, well organised and brave in possession, hit back just six minutes later. Antonee Robinson’s delivery from the left found Sasa Lukic completely unmarked in the box and the midfielder made no mistake, powering a header past the exposed Newcastle defence to level the contest.

From there the tie ebbed and flowed. Fulham enjoyed long spells of control and looked increasingly comfortable, while Newcastle huffed and puffed without finding a cutting edge. With penalties looming, Lecomte appeared to have forced extra time when he produced a sharp save to deny Miley late on.

Moments later, however, the same player had his redemption. Sandro Tonali’s corner found Miley peeling away at the near post and his deft header finally broke Fulham’s resistance, sealing Newcastle’s ninth straight Carabao Cup win in normal time and keeping alive their grip on the trophy that ended decades of frustration last season.

There was concern amid the celebrations as Tino Livramento limped off in the second half, adding to Eddie Howe’s growing defensive injury list ahead of a punishing festive schedule. Nevertheless, the result lifts the mood on Tyneside and sets up a daunting two-legged semi-final against Manchester City in the new year.

For Fulham, the disappointment was palpable. Marco Silva’s side competed admirably despite a stretched squad and will feel they deserved more for their efforts, but once again fell victim to Newcastle late drama at St James’ Park.

For Newcastle, it was another reminder of why cup football still holds such power — and why a fearless teenager can sometimes steal the biggest spotlight.

Man City 2-0 Brentford: Cherki brilliance sends Guardiola’s side into Carabao Cup semi-finals

Manchester City booked their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with a composed 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Etihad, a night illuminated by a moment of individual genius from Rayan Cherki and underpinned by Guardiola’s growing belief in the depth of his squad.

The tie swung decisively midway through the first half when Cherki produced a stunning strike from distance, curling the ball beyond Hakon Valdimarsson and into the top corner to break Brentford’s resistance. It was a goal worthy of a knockout stage, instantly lifting the atmosphere and tilting the contest firmly in City’s favour.

Before that moment, however, the visitors felt they had been hard done by. Brentford were incensed when Abdukodir Khusanov escaped with only a yellow card after bringing down Kevin Schade as the last defender during a rare Bees break. With no VAR in operation at this stage of the competition, referee Samuel Barrott’s decision stood, much to the frustration of Keith Andrews and his players, who believed the incident should have resulted in a dismissal.

Rather than galvanising Brentford, the controversy seemed to sap their momentum. City, fielding a heavily rotated side, grew in confidence and control, circulating the ball with patience and forcing the visitors deeper. Stand-in goalkeeper James Trafford, given the nod amid recent uncertainty over his role, was largely untroubled as City suffocated Brentford’s attacking threat.

The second goal arrived midway through the second half and effectively sealed the contest. Savinho combined neatly with Phil Foden before lifting a deflected effort over Valdimarsson, a goal that reflected City’s ability to strike decisively even without their usual rhythm. From there, Guardiola’s side managed the game professionally, limiting risk and seeing out a win that was far more comfortable than pre-match expectations suggested.

The result carries added significance for City, who had surprisingly failed to progress beyond the quarter-finals of this competition in recent seasons despite their domestic dominance elsewhere. With a congested January schedule looming – including Premier League clashes with Chelsea and Manchester United – Guardiola’s decision to still call upon key figures such as Foden underlined how seriously he viewed the opportunity to return to the latter stages.

City will now face Newcastle over two legs in the semi-finals, continuing a run of strong form that has seen them collect six straight wins in all competitions. There is a growing sense that Guardiola’s side are rediscovering the sharpness and cohesion that once made them so relentless.

For Brentford, the evening will be remembered as a missed opportunity to capitalise on a major refereeing moment. While they competed diligently for spells, their lack of cutting edge and inability to recover after falling behind left them with little chance of forcing a dramatic finish.

With Cherki’s flair, Savinho’s composure and the squad buying into Guardiola’s rotation, City move one step closer to silverware and are beginning to look every inch a team hitting stride at the business end of the season.

Game On! London Stansted connects fans to Morocco for Africa’s biggest football tournament

As Morocco prepares to host the African Cup of Nations between 21st December 2025 to 18th January 2026, football fever is sure to take off at London Stansted this winter.

Fans have the choice of flying to six different Moroccan cities from Stansted – making it the perfect opportunity to catch a game whilst on a wintry getaway. The choices are as follows:

Agadir – Ryanair (flights twice a week, approx. 3 hrs 45 mins)
Casablanca – Royal Air Maroc (daily flights, approx. 3 hrs 30 mins)
Fez – Ryanair (flights twice a week, approx. 3 hrs 20 mins)
Marrakesh – Ryanair (flights three times a week, approx. 3 hrs 40 mins)
Rabat – Ryanair (flights twice a week, approx. 3 hrs 30 mins)
Tangier – Ryanair (flights twice a week, approx. 3 hrs 15 mins)

24 teams will compete across nine stadiums throughout the tournament, with the opening match between Morocco and Comoros set to take place on 21st December in Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. This venue will also host the final on 18th January.

It’s not all about the football though – as visitors can also soak up Morocco’s rich culture by choosing to take a trip. From Marrakesh’s bustling souks and Agadir’s golden beaches to the historic streets of Fez, to the modern vibe of Casablanca, there is something for everyone. Even those who are looking for more adventure – the Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking views, while traditional Moroccan cuisine awaits in local riads.

Simon Gorrighan, London Stansted’s Aviation Director, said: “The African Cup of Nations is a major moment in the global football calendar, and we’re pleased that London Stansted is playing a role in connecting fans to Morocco from the UK. With direct flights to six Moroccan cities, we’re offering passengers real choice, great value and the convenience of flying from their local airport. Whether travelling to support their team or to enjoy a winter break, Stansted provides a straightforward and accessible gateway to the tournament and beyond.”

National Express boosts festive capacity between the South West and London with over 9,000 extra seats

National Express is the UK’s largest scheduled coach operator, and is boosting capacity on key intercity and airport services between the South West and London in order to meet demand over the busy festive period.

The leading coach operator is adding over 9,200 extra seats to services connecting the South West and London between 20th December and 4th January, and over 5,000 additional seats are being added on the 040 between Bristol and London. Additional capacity on journeys to and from Gloucester, Cheltenham, Swindon and Heathrow Airport, will also provide customers with affordable, reliable public transport over Christmas and New Year.

Network Director for National Express, said: “We already operate the UK’s biggest coach network, connecting customers with hundreds of destinations across the country, and we have the flexibility to add extra capacity on our popular intercity and airport routes to meet the huge demand we’re seeing for our services.

“With planned rail engineering works ahead, more people are turning to us for affordable, reliable travel and we’ve stepped up once again to add over 9,200 extra seats to ensure our customers can travel between the South West and London this Christmas.

“Our services are great value, customers enjoy a guaranteed seat, and most importantly, we get them to their destinations safely. We expect to be busy and tickets are selling fast so we’re advising customers to book in advance to avoid disappointment.”

Punctuality across the National Express coach network consistently exceeds 90% and cancellations only stand at less than 0.2% – making them a leader in reliability. Customers can rely on the UK’s most trusted service this Christmas, with one-way fares between Bristol and London being available from £4.990.

In addition to these increased scheduled services, National Express is also helping families travel for less with free coach travel for up to three kids travelling with an adult until 4th January 2026.

Ed added: “Whether it’s visiting the Christmas markets or watching a pantomime to keep the kid entertained this Twixmas, our kids go free offer is helping parents save on travel costs so they can enjoy winter adventures with the whole family.”

Passengers can expect a safe and comfortable experience on board, with leather reclining seats, free Wi-Fi on selected services, USB power sockets and a generous luggage allowance of up to 20kg. Change & Go flexible ticket options are also available.

Click here, to plan your journey and book tickets.

London Fire Brigade winter water safety warning after rise in incidents

Londoners are being warned to take extra care near rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs during the winter months, following a rise in water-related incidents.

New figures from the London Fire Brigade show an increase in incidents during colder weather over the past five years. Firefighters have already attended more than 670 water-related incidents this year, which is more than double the number recorded five years ago.

December has emerged as a particularly busy period. There were 49 water-related callouts last December, making it the busiest month outside of the summer season. November 2025 saw 46 incidents, with most involving people in difficulty in the water or trapped in mud.

The London Fire Brigade winter water safety warning urges people to take precautions, especially after dark. Fire crews said routes near water should be planned carefully and well-lit paths used wherever possible.

Assistant commissioner Pam Oparoacha said: “If you’re heading out to a Christmas party or an evening walk near water, plan your route carefully, stick to well-lit areas and stay away from the edge.

“If you see someone else in difficulty, please don’t enter the water yourself. Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”

The warning also reflects the death of firefighter Anthony Knott. In December 2019, Mr Knott, who was based at Addington fire station in Croydon, went missing after attending a Christmas party with friends.

His body was found in a river three weeks later. It is believed he got into difficulty while walking close to the river, which was flooded at the time.

Colleagues said his death continues to shape the brigade’s approach to prevention and public awareness. Firefighter John Scanlon said: “Anthony and I joined Addington fire station around the same time, and he quickly became not only a valued colleague but a close friend. His loss had a devastating impact on all of us.

“Anthony will always remain in our hearts. We continue his legacy by educating the public and working to prevent future tragedies. The best way we can remember him is by keeping others safe.”

The London Fire Brigade winter water safety warning remains in place as emergency services prepare for further seasonal risks.

Old Spotted Dog Forest Gate restoration approved with hotel and flats

Plans have been approved to restore the Old Spotted Dog in Forest Gate, bringing the long-derelict pub back into use alongside new hotel and residential accommodation.

Newham Council’s strategic planning committee approved two applications submitted by Highpride Properties Ltd at a meeting on 9 December. The proposals cover the “restoration and re-use” of the Old Spotted Dog site at 212 Upton Lane, following submissions made last year.

The Old Spotted Dog Forest Gate restoration concerns a building dating back to the 15th century. Newham Council describes it as the borough’s oldest secular building, with historical links suggesting it may once have served as a hunting lodge used by King Henry VIII.

Approved plans involve a “complete restoration” of the structure. This includes removing 20th-century alterations to reveal and reinstate Tudor, Georgian or early Victorian, and late Victorian or Edwardian features. Internal works will address structural problems and restore decorative Victorian elements within the Tudor sections of the building.

The restoration will also involve reinstating windows and brickwork, using materials and detailing that match the original historic fabric. A pub garden with seating areas is proposed at both the front of the site along Upton Lane and to the rear.

Alongside the Old Spotted Dog Forest Gate restoration, two new buildings will be constructed. These will provide a total of 22 residential flats and 14 hotel rooms.

The site sits next to the Old Spotted Dog Ground, which the council says is the oldest senior football ground in London to have been in continuous use since 1880. Clapton Community Football Club, which plays its home games there, raised concerns earlier this year about potential “noise disturbances from football matches and community events”.

In response, planning officers said the proposed flats had been designed so that bedrooms in the affected block do not face the football ground, reducing “potential exposure to noise disturbance”. Re-consultation letters were sent to neighbouring properties in July, and no further representations were received from the club.

A council spokesperson said the developer had concluded that including social housing was not viable because of the cost of renovating the historic building. However, the plans include commitments that 35 per cent of construction jobs, and 50pc of roles in the new pub and hotel, will be offered to Newham residents.

Historic England explained the Grade II listing of the building by stating: “[It is] a well-surviving, if simply constructed, late-C15 or early-C16 house comprising central hall and flanking two-storey cross wings, these with weatherboarded jetties; interesting interior including exposed timbers, hearth with bressummer, other fireplaces and historic joinery including a Victorian bar and back bar.

“Particular poignancy as a rare-surviving late-medieval building in this area, evoking the rural character that could be enjoyed here until the middle of the C19, when this part of old Essex was lost to the expanding capital.”

No timetable has yet been given for when work on the Old Spotted Dog Forest Gate restoration will begin or when it is expected to be completed.

Why Facilities Management Is No Longer a Background Function

Facilities management rarely attracts attention when it works well. Buildings are safe, systems function, and spaces are fit for purpose. But as organizations become more complex -operating across multiple sites, sectors and compliance regimes – the role of facilities management has moved quietly from the background into a more strategic position.

Octavian Facilities Management is one of a growing number of UK-based providers shaped by this shift. Founded in 2009, the company has expanded alongside increasing demand for consistency and accountability in building operations.

Rather than positioning facilities as a standalone service, Octavian’s model reflects a broader change in how organisations think about the spaces they operate from – not simply as assets to maintain, but as environments that influence cost, safety, productivity and reputation.

From Reactive Maintenance to Managed Environments

Historically, facilities management was largely reactive. Issues were addressed as they arose, often through fragmented supplier networks with limited oversight. That approach has become increasingly difficult to sustain as buildings face tighter compliance requirements, rising energy costs, and greater scrutiny around health and safety.

Octavian FM’s growth has been built around a more structured approach. The company combines planned preventative maintenance with reactive support, aiming to reduce disruption rather than simply respond to it. This balance reflects an industry-wide move toward proactive management, where visibility and planning are as important as response times.

Scale Without Losing Local Context

One of the persistent challenges in facilities management is balancing national coverage with local responsiveness. Large organisations often struggle with inconsistency across regions, while smaller providers can lack the capacity to support complex portfolios.

Octavian FM operates in the space between those two extremes. Its nationwide delivery model is supported by regional teams and local supply chain partners, allowing standards to be applied consistently while maintaining local knowledge and accountability.

This structure reflects a pragmatic response to client expectations: the ability to manage multiple sites under a single framework, without losing the flexibility required to deal with individual buildings and local conditions.

A Business Built on Continuity

While the facilities management sector has seen significant consolidation and outsourcing over the past decade, Octavian FM has maintained a focus on continuity – both in service delivery and in client relationships. Family values remain part of the company’s identity, influencing its emphasis on consistency, reliability and long-term engagement.

Quality control, accredited systems and ongoing monitoring play a central role in maintaining standards across contracts, but the underlying approach is deliberately straightforward: deliver what is needed, measure it properly, and improve where required.

The Quiet Importance of Getting It Right

Facilities management is rarely visible when it succeeds, yet its impact is felt across every part of an organisation. Octavian Facilities Management’s development reflects a wider recognition that buildings and environments are not neutral backdrops, but operational factors in their own right.

As organisations continue to demand greater efficiency, compliance and accountability from the spaces they occupy, providers like Octavian FM occupy an increasingly important – if often understated – role in keeping those environments functional, safe and fit for the future.

Taco Bell is set to bring its bold flavours to Wandsworth next week

Taco Bell Franchisee Soul Foods has announced the grand opening of its newest restaurant at Southside Shopping Centre on Monday 22nd December.

Located at 12 Garratt Lane, London, SW184F, the store will be open daily from 10am-11pm, and the first three customers in the queue on Monday will also win free tacos for a year to celebrate its opening. Not only that but the first 25 customers will also receive a goody bag, along with free nachos and cinnamon twists on the day (T&Cs apply).

The new spot will serve up all the fan favourites – from the Crunchwrap Supreme, Crunchy Taco Supreme, and Volcano Burrito, alongside their infamous vegetarian options – and all guests can expect the fast, friendly service that Taco bell fans have come to know and love.

Soul Food operates 8,200 restaurants worldwide, serving more than two billion customers each year. The UK remains a key focus for Taco Bell, with over 140 Taco Bell locations already established across the country.

“At Taco Bell, we’re world famous for our unique and craveable menu, flavour explosion and bold experiences from innovative new items to iconic classics,” said Chet Patel, Chief Marketing Officer of Taco Bell UK & Europe. “We’re excited to bring our unique brand culture and connect with the people of Wandsworth”.

Shannon Reed, Centre Director at Southside Shopping Centre, said: “We’re excited to welcome Taco Bell to our lineup of great dining options here at Southside. We’re driven to create a welcoming environment where the local community can come together to enjoy a day of shopping and other leisure activities we have on offer, followed by some delicious food that satisfies every appetite. With Taco Bell’s iconic Mexican-inspired flavours, we’re confident their offering will be a welcome addition.”

Not only is this a big flavour-win for Wandsworth, but it has also created just under 20 jobs in the community.

An enjoyable in-store experience has been at the forefront of the vision of this store, where it has been outfitted with the latest digital channels, multiple customer accessibility points – creating a fast, easy and fun time – and free wi-fi, power outlets and comfortable seating has been implemented.

If you are a big taco-enthusiast, now is also your chance to become a member of the app and receive a complimentary Crunchy Taco, alongside earning points that can be redeemed for free menu items and rewards. It doesn’t end here though – as you can also place your order through the app before arriving at the store to skip the queue.