She took Ecstasy, but then her life was transformed
Rubee Lana’s life was marked by pain, depression, and self-destruction. Growing up without a father, she resented her mother and often stayed at her grandmother’s house after arguments. Verbal and mental abuse left her feeling unloved, and she struggled with suicidal thoughts. After a failed overdose attempt, she turned to partying, drugs, and social media fame, but the emptiness in her heart remained. Moving to Chicago, she immersed herself in the EDM festival scene, taking Ecstasy and embracing a reckless lifestyle. One night, while drinking in a car with strangers, she had a sudden realisation: if she died, she would go to hell. Crying out to God, she pleaded for forgiveness. That moment marked the beginning of a radical transformation. Rubee started attending church, surrendered her life to Christ, and was born again. Today, she shares her testimony online, spreading the hope and redemption found in Jesus.
Reeves backs Heathrow expansion plans
Rachel Reeves has unveiled major infrastructure projects, including support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport. Her speech highlighted Labour’s commitment to economic growth, despite opposition. She emphasised that growth 'will not come without a fight’. Key projects include developing a 'growth corridor' between Oxford and Cambridge, upgrading transport links, building nine new reservoirs, and redeveloping the Old Trafford football ground. However, the lack of public funding for these initiatives raises concerns about feasibility. Heathrow’s expansion is controversial, with critics arguing it will harm the environment and increase costs for airlines. London mayor Sadiq Khan and green energy entrepreneur Dale Vince oppose the plan, and the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats argue that the government’s approach is ineffective. Despite these challenges, Labour insists that investing in infrastructure is crucial for long-term prosperity and ensuring the UK is not left behind in global development. See
Lloyds group to close 136 branches
Lloyds Banking Group has announced the closure of 136 high street branches, dealing another blow to the UK banking sector, as more customers shift to mobile banking. After these closures, Lloyds will have 386 branches, Halifax 281, and Bank of Scotland 90. Lloyds attributes the decision to a 48% decline in branch transactions over the past five years; over twenty million customers now use their apps for banking. Affected employees will be offered alternative roles within the organisation. To support customers losing local branches, Lloyds are highlighting alternative banking options, including telephone banking and Post Office branches; also, 21 new banking hubs may be introduced in affected areas to maintain cash access. While digital banking continues to grow, concerns remain about the impact on elderly and vulnerable customers reliant on in-person services.
First bird flu case confirmed in England
The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed England’s first human case of bird flu this season. The individual, located in the West Midlands, contracted the virus after close and prolonged contact with infected birds on a farm. They are now in isolation, with contact tracing underway. While no human-to-human transmission has been recorded, concerns remain. Public health minister Andrew Gwynne said that the risk to the public is low and emphasised the UK’s preparedness, including stockpiling the H5 vaccine to combat avian influenza. In response to rising bird flu cases, authorities have declared an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) in England and Scotland. Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss urged bird keepers to implement strict biosecurity, monitor for signs of disease, and report suspected cases immediately.
