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A BREATHTAKING Scottish beach with incredible dunes and gorgeous sunsets has been named among the best to visit across the UK during the winter.

There are several wonderful beaches across Scotland that are famed for their crystal clear waters and white Caribbean sands.

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One Scottish beach was named among the best 11 in Britain to visit during the winter[/caption]

So it’s no wonder that many receive nationwide attention for their beauty.

And now a recent study has revealed that one has been ranked among the top eleven coastal locations across Britain during the colder months.

Many of us still love to visit locations where there is beautiful scenery even when it’s cold outside.

And a trip to the beach can be mesmerising in the winter when it’s quieter and the sun sets earlier.

So in a bid to help, experts at Country Living compiled the list by considering locations with silky soft sand, stunning landscapes and crashing waves.

They also looked at where has the best places to stay nearby for a weekend break.

The UK’s beaches boast another level of stirring beauty in winter… the off-season months are a great opportunity to get coast all to yourself

Experts at Country Living

The travel experts say: “The UK’s beaches boast another level of stirring beauty in winter – not to mention the fact the off-season months are a great opportunity to get the wild and wind-beaten coast all to yourself.

“But where are Britain’s best winter beaches for a wave-crashingly scenic escape?

“Turn your collars up to the wind, wrap up warm and explore silky sands, rugged coastlines, clifftop views, wildlife-rich rock pools and picturesque coastal paths – all with the added drama and atmospheric beauty of unpredictable weather.

“There’s also nothing like the promise of a post-walk local ale or warming hot chocolate at a cosy old pub to enhance the trip.”

And coming in at number ten on the rankings is Machir Bay in Islay, near the small community at Kilchoman.

It is a stunning two-mile stretch of soft sand surrounded by dunes that is popular with tourists and locals alike for its gorgeous sunsets.

Describing the beach, Country Living says: “Head to Scotland’s whisky island for a winter-warming break with a difference.

“Islay boasts no less than nine distilleries to warm your cockles after a stroll on the breathtakingly beautiful beach at Machir Bay.

“Enjoy windswept walks on the dune-backed fine sand and clifftop nature reserves before thawing out with a wee dram in front of a roaring fire. Ferries run from Oban or Kennacraig.”

For a place nearby to stay for a weekend break, the experts suggest visiting Machrie Hotel & Golf Links.

They said that the hotel is “a great blend of country-contemporary and cosy accommodation.”

It’s not the first time that Machir Bay has been singled out for being among the best beaches in the UK.

Experts at Condé Nast Traveler hailed it for being among the 56 best coastal spots in Britain in a recent study.

They looked at the best sandy spots as well as where there was the clearest water to compile their list.

Condé Nast Traveler experts said: “Islay, known as ‘Queen of the Hebrides,’ is famous for its single malt whisky (there are eight distilleries on the tiny isle); but it’s also outlined by 130 miles of rambling coastline.

“Take a walk along the green, boggy flatlands, pass the iconic stone Celtic Cross of Kilchoman and you’ll come to Machir, one of the fairest stretches of sand of them all.

“It’s got a simple but perennially pleasing beauty: more than a mile of white-sand shoreline and a well-deserved reputation for stunning sunsets.

“Hike down to the south end and you’ll also come across a crumbling Iron Age fort hidden amongst the coastal crags.”

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Machir Bay, on the Isle of Islay, impressed the experts[/caption]

MEDIK8 has earned its spot as one of the best-loved luxury skincare brands on the market.

Using science to back up its claims, Medik8’s products have secured a cult following that include celebrities and dermatologists, and I can confirm its latest release is a game-changer.

Medik8’s Liquid Peptides Advanced MP launched in January, as an anti-ageing serum that uses patented Mini Proteins to minimise fine lines and wrinkles.

The brand doesn’t hold back on the bold claims, stating proven results in as little as 10 minutes.

I have several of Medik8’s products already in my skincare routine, so I was eager to try the brand’s latest innovation.

Retailing for £79, it’s definitely not the cheapest, but is it worth the price tag?

Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP, £79

The second in line of Medik8’s Liquid Peptides Serums, the product is designed to offer a “filler-like effect with ease”.

While the brand’s original Liquid Peptides Serum works to combat early signs of ageing, the Advanced version has upped the ante by tackling even deep-set wrinkles.

The Advanced AP serum also includes 13 age-defying peptides (the original used 10), and it uses the world’s first Mini-Proteins.

What is the science behind it? 

Botox is a protein, which needs to be injected into the skin due to its larger size.

Medik8’s Mini Proteins are small enough to penetrate the skin without injecting, targeting the formation of wrinkles at the foundation. 

The Expression Line Mini Protein helps to relax expression lines, while the Growth Factor Mini Protein works to support collagen and hyaluronic acid levels to leave the skin looking smoother and firmer.

It’s recommended the serum is applied after cleansing and before any other products (including retinol).

First impressions, I was pleasantly surprised at how the serum glided across the skin without feeling heavy or sticky.

My dry skin doesn’t usually respond well when I apply serums before my make-up, but as the lightweight texture absorbs so quickly, I had no issues with using it in the AM and PM.

I’ve now been using the Advanced Peptides Serum for almost four weeks, and I can definitely see results.

While I don’t have deep-set wrinkles, I do have fine lines on my forehead which look noticeably less visible.

I can’t say I noticed changes after 10 minutes, but after a few uses my skin was looking brighter.

The serum has also made a huge difference to the pores on my forehead, and I hadn’t even noticed how much they had shrunk until comparing the before an after photos.

Medik8’s latest innovation doesn’t come cheap, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re looking for a product that actually works to minimise pores and smooth fine lines – that doesn’t involve a needle.

FASHION fans should head down to Debenhams pronto as the sale has just become even bigger.

There’s now up to 75% off thousands of products, with an extra 25% discount on many. What’s more, there’s currently free next day and express delivery!

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Save when shopping Debenhams huge sale[/caption]

Debenhams sale

Simply add the code FREEDEL at checkout to benefit.

Discover masses of great discounts across the Debenhams website with unmissable brands for men and women, as well as beauty and home deals too.

Whether you’re a Wallis woman, go crazy for Boohoo or simply love Dorothy Perkins you’re in luck as many brands are offering their own deals within the sale.

There’s also discount codes available on certain products saving you even more cash, such as EXTRA20 for an additional 20% off and BEAUTY5, which will get you another 5% off selected beauty and skincare.

Browse the sale to find impressive savings on everything from womenswear and watches to soft furnishings and humidifiers.

The event also includes discounts from big-name brands such as Gucci, Michael Kors, and Moschino.

Read on for our pick of the Debenhams’ sale.

Best Debenhams sale deals

• SkinChemists professionalWrinkle Killer Anti-Ageing Japanese Orange Sensitive Night Moisturiser 50ml from £14.99 (was £89) – buy here
• Warda Collagen Revive & Firm Glowing Gift Set, £20.99 (was £159) – buy here
• Armani Diamonds Diamonds She Eau De Parfum, £31 (was £62) – buy here
• Barney’s Originals Washed Leather Biker Jacket, £86.25 (was £220) – buy here
• Fiorelli Cassidy Tote Bag in Plum, £33.75 (was £75) – buy here
• Silver Street London Holden Casual Lace Up Leather Trainers, £34.87 (were £70) – buy here
• Weird Fish Jeremy Button Down Jersey Polo Shirt, £15 (was £40) – buy here
• Alivio 10L Dehumidifier with Low Energy Portable & Washable Dust Filter, £69.99 (was £229.99) – buy here
• OHS Memory Foam Cool Touch Sprung Quilted Mattress, from £58.99 (was £131.99) – buy here

Debenham’s sale dresses

Coast Floral Frill Detail Fitted Maxi Dress

Coast Floral Frill Detail Fitted Maxi Dress, £59.50 (was £119)

This gorgeous maxi dress is perfect for a spring wedding or other formal event as the weather warms up.

The frill detail of the dress is echoed in the flutter sleeves, which is made all the more dreamy by the floaty chiffon fabric.

A V-neck at the front is dipped at the back, with more of the delicate frill accents.

Team with strappy sandals or kitten heels for an evening do and add a wrap if the weather turns cold.

• Blue Vanilla Ruffle Wrap Midi Dress, £7.50 (was £36) – buy here
• Wallis Occasion Floral Pleated Maxi Dress, £45 (was £75) – buy here
• Weird Fish Lisha LivaEco Printed Viscose Dress, £38.25 (was £85) – buy here
• Kite Lillington Organic Cotton Denim Dress, £42.75 (was £95) – buy here

Debenhams Handbags sale

Osprey London The Levisham Leather Crossbody Bag

Osprey London The Levisham Leather Crossbody Bag, £95 (was £165)

Osprey is an iconic brand and now’s your change to get hold of this designer bag with over 40% off.

The Levisham Crossbody bag is crafted in real leather and available in black or blue, with silver zips and accents.

There’s two pockets on the front, one on the back and a further zipped pocket inside.

It measures 29 x 32.5 x 10 cm.

• Ashwood Leather ‘Edinburgh’ Real Leather Crossbody Bag, £33.99 (was £85) – buy here
• Assots London Olga Croc Designer Leather Crossbody Shoulder Bag, £52.49 (was £139.99) – buy here
• Cultured London Arabella Leather Grab Bag, £59 (was £159) – buy here
• Conkca London Clover Leather Tote Bag, £59 (was £149) – buy here

Debenhams perfume sale

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau De Toilette Summer Vibes

Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Eau De Toilette Summer Vibes, £38.50 (was £77)

Add a spritz of this eau de toilette and think of summer holidays to come.

The light scent is spiced by Calabrian bergamot and complemented by heart notes of peach fruit.

Bass notes of Cedarwood leave a lasting, sultry fragrance.

• Hugo Boss BOSS Femme Eau De Parfum, from £34 (was £64) – buy here
• Giorgio Beverly Hills Eau De Toilette 90ml, £21 (was £52) – buy here
• March Jacobs Honey Eau de Parfum, £41 (was £99) – buy here
• Calvin Klein Obsession For Men Eau De Toilette 125ml, £29 (was £78) – buy here

Debenhams home sale

Living and Home Multi-Functional Bamboo Garment Clothes Rack

Living and Home Multi-Functional Bamboo Garment Clothes Rack, £40 (was £139)

If you’re short on closet space then this wooden rack is affordable and looks a lot better than other temporary wardrobes we’ve seen.

It’s made from bamboo and features two long shelves on the main section as well as five smaller shelves at the side and a hanging rail.

There’s even a hook on each side – perfect for hanging hats and scarves.

It measures 130cm W x 40cm D x 140cm H.

• Alivio Electric Heated Clothes Dryer, £34.99 (was £99.99) – buy here  
• Home Discount Vida Designs Arlington 2 Drawer 3 Door Sideboard, £80.99 (was 201.99) – buy here
• Living and Home Crystal Double-Layer Round LED Ceiling Light Cool White, £30.99 (was £129.99) – buy here
• Neo Black 8.5L Electric Digital 2 Drawer Dual Zone Air Fryer, £65.62 (was £149.99) – buy here

Debenhams bedding sale

Dreamscene Spring Blossoms Print Duvet Cover with Pillowcase

Dreamscene Spring Blossoms Print Duvet Cover with Pillowcase, from £13.99 (was £23.99)

Bring a touch of spring into your bedroom with this blossom duvet cover and matching pillowcase.

It’s available in yellow or light pink, with a smaller print on the back so you can reverse the design for a whole new look.

There’s one pillowcase with the single size and two with the double, king and super king versions.

The easy care fabric is 50% cotton and 50% polyester.

• Liddell 400 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Fitted Sheet double, from £26.25 (was £70) – buy here
• The Lyndon Company Opulent Jacquard Cotton Rich Bedlinen Duvet set double, from £29.10 (was £130) – buy here
• Deyongs Cherry Blossom Blue Cotton Rich Reversible Duvet Cover Set, from £17.02 (was £60) – buy here
• Martex Blue Zebras in Love Fitted Sheet, from £10.24 (was £45.50) – buy here

Debenhams menswear sale

French Connection Cotton Slim Fit Stretch Jeans

French Connection Cotton Slim Fit Stretch Jeans, £30 (were £60)

This classic five-pocket design never goes out of fashion.

The slim fit is flattering yet comfortable at the same time, thanks to the addition of elastane.

Suitable for year-round wear, these jeans are a wardrobe staple.

• Maine Corduroy Long Sleeve Shirt, £18 (was £36) – buy here
• TOG24 Radley Jacket, £50 (was £130) – buy here
• EverAu Australia Lark Slippers, £37.49 (were £129) – buy here
• Trespass Keynote Anti Pilling 1/4 Zip Fleece Top, £14.44 (was £34.99) – buy here

What are the additional codes for extra discounts?

Debenhams extra discount codes are:

• BEAUTY5 for an extra 5% off make-up, skincare and fragrance
• EXTRA20 for an extra 20% off fashion
• FREEDEL for free express and next day delivery

When does the Debenhams sale finish?

As far as we can see, there’s no end date for the current Debenhams sale so we’re guessing it will go on for a few weeks yet.

However, if you want to take advantage of the extra discounts you better be quick as there’s times on the retailer’s website that state the extra 5% off beauty and extra 20% off fashion finish tomorrow.

Can you return Debenhams sale items?

Yes, any items bought in the sale can be returned withing 28 days for a refund.

However there are exceptions. The retailer will not accept returns on beauty, skincare, pierced jewellery, vitamins and other supplements if the product seal has been broken.

Swimwear and lingerie will only be accepted for refund if the hygiene seals have not been removed.

Shoes and clothing should be returned unworn with all labels still attached.

While homewares, bedding and computer software must all be in their original packaging and unopened.

Personalised items cannot be returned for refund.

DONALD Trump has met with his old pal French President Macron after he vowed to show Europe and the UK are “united” in support for Ukraine.

The Republican welcomed Macron to the White House for talks on Monday as uncertainty looms about the future of transatlantic relations.

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US President Donald Trump welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House in Washington[/caption]

AFP

US President Donald Trump welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House[/caption]

The pair had started the day participating in a virtual meeting with other leaders of the Group of Seven economies – holding crunch talks about the war.

It comes after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Macron agreed to both discuss showing “united leadership in support of Ukraine.”

Both Starmer and Macron went over Russia‘s “barbaric full-scale invasion” and there were reportedly talks of placing Ukraine in the centre of negotiations.

Starmer shared his commitment to support Ukraine and it was said the UK and Europe must be united against “Russian aggression.”

A press release posted on Gov.uk revealed more discussions in the US would take place within the coming week.

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister spoke with President Macron this afternoon.

“They began by discussing the third anniversary of Russia‘s barbaric full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which is a stark reminder that we must all work together to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position at this crucial moment for global security.

“The Prime Minister repeated the UK’s steadfast commitment to support Ukraine for as long as needed and reiterated the importance of Ukraine being at the centre of any negotiations to end the conflict.”

Europe and the UK were said to be looking to scale up to meet security needs, exhibiting further support for Ukraine.

The spokesperson continued: “The UK and Europe must continue stepping up to meet their security needs and show united leadership in support of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, which they would both discuss in the US in the coming week.

“The leaders agreed to stay in close contact.”

This comes as Volodymyr Zelensky vows to step down as Ukraine’s president in exchange for peace or Nato membership.

Donald Trump is holding peace talks without including Kyiv in discussions, and the Ukrainian leader has responded by offering to leave his position if necessary.

The shock remarks were made at a press conference this weekend as he emphasised that Ukraine’s security was his priority.

Zelensky said on Sunday: “If it’s about peace in Ukraine and you really want me to leave my position, I am ready to do that [in exchange for peace].

“Secondly I can exchange it for Nato [membership].

“If there is such an opportunity I’ll do it immediately without a long conversation about it.”

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President Emmanuel Macron of France departs from a meeting with United States President Donald J Trump at the White House in Washington, DC[/caption]

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Macron of France and White House Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley depart the West Wing to return to Blair House after meetings[/caption]

HOLIDAYMAKERS who use Uber overseas have been warned that a new charge could see them shelling out more for trips.

From Thursday (February 27) Uber will add a conversion charge to bills when riders pay in their home currency while overseas.

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Uber is set to introduce a new charge to overseas journeys from Thursday[/caption]

This means that if you pay for a trip in the US in British pounds the taxi app will add a 1.5% conversion fee to your bill.

So, if ride cost £10, £10.15 will be taken from your account.

And passengers could end up further out of pocket if the exchange rate used by the app is unfavourable.

But there is a way to avoid being caught out.

To check if you’ll be charged log into your settings and see if British pounds is set as your preferred currency for payments.

When abroad change this to the local currency and then use an overseas card or other fee-free payment method to settle your bill and avoid paying more than you need to.

When introduced on Thursday the change will only apply when in Canada, the US or any country using the euro, but it is expected to be rolled out across other areas.

Uber has said that he exchange rate it’s offering will be shown on trip receipts and has confirmed that no conversion charge will be added to tip payments.

Be aware that you will only be able to select the currency you wish to pay in when using on-demand rides such as UberX, UberXL, UberBlack and UberGreen.

With other rides, such as rentals and scheduled rides you won’t be able to select the currency you wish to pay in.

When travelling abroad it’s important to consider the best cards to use when making payments.

Last week a popular bank for spending abroad announced a change to fees ahead of summer and it’s good news for holidaymakers.

Credit and debit cards routinely add fees of almost 3% when used abroad, and ATM charges can be as much as 7.95% which would add £8 to a £100 withdrawal.

The best cards for overseas travel have no fees at all so it’s worth comparing your options to get the best deal.

Remember to always opt to pay in local currency, as paying in sterling usually means getting a dismal rate from the merchant you are buying from.

You may also want to consider that credit cards can offer you extra protections when spending abroad if things go wrong, but make sure to pay off the bill in full to avoid interest.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

No. 3 UCLA women’s basketball survived a late push from Iowa to secure a 67-65 comeback victory on Sunday, and Bruins star center Lauren Betts reflected on the experience of playing in a high-stakes environment. “I have watched Iowa for a really long time, great team,” Betts said, as reported by Ethan Petrik of the […]

The post Lauren Betts makes ‘cool’ admission after UCLA’s close win vs. Iowa appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Former WWE star Dave Bautista (aka Batista) shared recent photos, including him on the set of his new movie, The Last Showgirl, where he changed up his look. The photos were shared on Bautista’s Instagram. He shared 20 photos from the set of The Last Showgirl, including ones of Pamela Anderson and director Gia Coppola. […]

The post Former WWE star Dave Bautista looks unrecognizable in new movie first look appeared first on ClutchPoints.

If teams want to be competitive, a solid starting five would be a no-brainer. They dictate how teams will start off a game. But while starting fives are usually composed of some of the best NBA players, there are times when a team’s starting five is composed of non-household names. Here is a closer look […]

The post 10 worst starting fives in NBA history appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The Boston Red Sox’s fanbase, known as “Red Sox Nation,” has a reputation for being one of baseball’s best. Two of the Red Sox’s newcomers, pitcher Garrett Crochet and infielder Alex Bregman, were impressed by the fan support at spring training. “Just having some good fan turnout helped a lot,” Crochet said via MLB.com. “That’s […]

The post Red Sox’s Alex Bregman, Garrett Crochet in awe of spring training fan support appeared first on ClutchPoints.

VILLAGERS have been left fuming after one neighbour built a giant metal gate and hired security guards to block a shared forest path.

Locals in Cwmparc in Rhondda Valley, South Wales, banded together to protest against the barrier which blocks the route to a beauty spot mountain that hat been used “for generations”.

David Williams/Media Wales

Locals have protested against a new barrier that blocks the route to a mountain walk[/caption]

WalesOnline/Media Wales

David Williams, 49, organised a protest against the gates on Sunday, saying it would be ‘awful’ if locals could no longer use it[/caption]

David Williams/Media Wales

The neighbour hired security guards to stand by the gate[/caption]

The beloved route is not an official right of way but is described as a “crucial” path to the stunning forestry, beloved by the villagers in the area.

Even the British Mountaineering Council has weighed in on the debate, backing the protesters after their path was slammed shut by the giant black gates.

The path, which links a road to the forestry, is private property and was blocked off earlier this month after the homeowner erected a giant gate.

In addition to the protest, locals have also launched a petition against the block which has been supported by politicians.

Their protest at the weekend saw them brave horrific weather conditions in a bid to try and make their voices heard.

David Williams, 49, said: “The road has been used for access and enjoyment for 80 years I would say, if not longer.

“It will be awful if people can’t use it anymore.”

David had organised the protest on Sunday where more than 70 villagers came together in the pouring rain.

He explained that if there had been more time to arrange the protest, there would have been an even greater turnout.

David added that if the weather had been less foul, and if there had perhaps not been a weather warning, numbers would have also been higher.

However, the 49-year-old highlighted that despite these awful conditions and lack of timing, a solid number of protesters still turned out to try and protect their access to the path.

He said how he has lived in the area his whole life and that himself, his parents, grandparents, family and friends have always had access to the mountain.

The group’s petition has gained more than 3,000 signatures as locals call for the route to be designated as a right of way.

The British Mountaineering Council said: “For generations, this path has linked the village with surrounding woodlands and mountain trails, serving as a crucial route for recreation, mental well-being, and active travel.

“Now, a petition is underway to restore public access and safeguard the track for the future generations to come.

“The community was shocked when large gates were erected to block the pathway, despite its historical use.”

Richard Swingler/Media Wales

Protesters unfurl their sign at the gate on Sunday[/caption]

WalesOnline/Media Wales

The route is not designated as an official right of way[/caption]

Richard Swingler/Media Wales

Villagers gathering to protest its construction[/caption]

They added: “Residents initially reported and removed the barriers, only for the landowner to reinstate them – this time with CCTV cameras and hired security guards, clearly designed to intimidate those seeking to use this route.

“The alternative route forces locals to take a lengthy detour on high-traffic roads, making access to the trails impractical for many.”

A spokesperson for Natural Resources Wales said: “We are aware of an access issue to the forest road at Cwmparc.

“We’ve been contacted by a number of concerned people from the local community.

“We are currently looking into our legal position on this and will provide an update as soon as we have more information.”

A spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council confirmed that the road the gates were placed on is not a registered public right of way.

They said: “The gates are within permitted development heights and are on private land.”

Richard Swingler/Media Wales

Some of the protesters with their sign[/caption]

WalesOnline/Media Wales

The gate being constructed[/caption]

WalesOnline/Media Wales

The path links a road to the forestry[/caption]