McGrath says Minister must listen to doctors and avert strike action
SDLP Opposition Health spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said that potential strike action by doctors should be a wake-up call to the Health Minister and his Department.
He was speaking after the BMA announced that it was to ballot doctors amid concerns over pay and working conditions.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “The announcement from the British Medical Association that hospital doctors in Northern Ireland are to be balloted for industrial action should set alarm bells ringing right across our health system.
“No doctor takes the decision to consider industrial action lightly.
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath (left) has expressed his deep concerns about a possible doctors strike and asks Health Minister Mike Nesbitt to do what he can to avert it as the BMA is about to ballot its members.
“These are professionals who come to work every day to care for patients, often in extremely pressured environments.
“The fact that they now feel they have no other option speaks volumes about the level of frustration and the failure to properly address workforce concerns.
“A 3.5% pay uplift, in the context of years of pay erosion and rising costs, was always going to fall short.
“But more concerning is the lack of clarity and certainty from the Department of Health around both improving the offer and even delivering it in a timely way.
“We cannot continue to run a health service where staff feel undervalued, overstretched and unheard.
“That is how we lose them and Northern Ireland is already struggling to recruit and retain the doctors we need.
“If this situation escalates to widespread industrial action across secondary care, it will have a very real impact on patients who are already waiting far too long for treatment. That is why urgent, meaningful engagement is needed now.
“The Minister must step up, engage seriously with the BMA, and bring forward a credible plan that addresses pay, workforce stability and long-term sustainability of services.
“Ignoring the concerns of doctors is not an option,” added Colin McGrath.
Man arrested after stand-off in Kilkeel following crossbow bolt fired at police
A 40-year old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after firing a crossbow at police and brandishing a sword in Kilkeel yesterday, Sunday 19 April.
A police spokesperson said that officers were called to the Moorfield Court area at around 9pm after concerned members of the public reported a man in a balaclava armed with a crossbow was in the street threatening residents.
Upon police arrival the suspect had retreated to a nearby house and a prolonged stand-off ensued.
Throughout a four hour period both local police and specialist Armed Response crews were subject to sustained attack from within the property, including being threatened with a large sword and targeted with crossbow bolts which narrowly missed responding officers.
Police are seeking information following an attack on police officers by a man with a crossbow in Kilkeel.
The use of Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) and a Conducted Energy Device (CED) were authorised during the police operation and were subsequently deployed to prevent the man from harming himself or anyone else, and to enable police to safely remove him from the house.
The suspect was subsequently securely detained and placed in police custody.
District Commander Superintendent Lynne Corbett said: “The officers who responded to this incident, both local uniform crews and specialist resources, should be commended for the bravery and professionalism shown in what must have been a frightening situation.
“The ability to hold your nerve, remain calm and prioritise the safety of not only the public but also the suspect, in the face of continuous potentially life-threatening attack, is something that should not be underestimated.
“The arrested man received appropriate medical review following the incident and will now be questioned on suspicion of a number of extremely serious offences including attempted murder, making threats to kill and possession of an offensive weapon.
“I would also like to express my thanks to local residents for the co-operation shown whilst we worked to bring the situation to a safe conclusion, and I am appealing to anyone in the local area with information that could assist the police investigation to please get in touch with us.
“We would also like to hear from anyone who may have captured CCTV, door-bell or any other footage in the area. Please call 101, quoting reference 1550 19/04/26 or submit info online via:
Businesses Across the District Urged to Sign Up Now and be Part of the Next Make It Local Campaign
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is calling on businesses across the district to register their interest for the up-coming Make It Local Summer 2026 marketing campaign, a high-impact initiative designed to boost visibility, drive footfall and encourage people to spend locally.
Building on the success of previous campaigns, Make It Local is returning with a dynamic summer programme aligned with a packed calendar of major events, festivals and seasonal attractions taking place across the district.
This creates valuable opportunities for participating businesses to benefit from increased visitor numbers and consumer activity during peak periods.
NMDDC Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell, is encouraging local businesses to sign up for the Make It Local Summer 2026 campaign. Expressions of Interest open 22 April.
From retail and hospitality to tourism, services and emerging start-ups, businesses of all sizes are encouraged to get involved. Make It Local aims to showcase the diversity and strength of the district’s business community, from town centres to rural areas.
Selected participants will benefit from a professionally delivered promotional package, including digital story-telling, social media campaigns, targeted advertising, print and outdoor promotion, as well as high-quality photography and video content.
The Chairperson of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “Make It Local is about turning attention into action and encouraging people to rediscover the fantastic businesses on their doorstep.
“By aligning this campaign with a busy summer events programme, we are creating real opportunities for businesses to benefit from increased footfall and visitor spend.
“We want to see strong interest from businesses right across the district. Whether you are an established business or just starting out, this is a valuable opportunity to raise your profile, connect with customers and be part of a wider campaign that celebrates everything local.”
Expressions of Interest will open on Wednesday 22 April.
(While submission does not guarantee selection, participants will be chosen to ensure a strong geographical spread and a mix of sectors.)
Newry BID to Launch Fourth Annual ‘Health in the City’ Programme
It’s back for a fourth year. Newry BID has announced the return of its annual ‘Health in the City’ programme, running from Monday 27th April through to Friday 29th May 2026.
Now in its fourth year, the initiative will once again bring a wide range of free events, activities and experiences to Newry city centre; all designed to encourage healthier lifestyles and showcase the wellbeing offering available locally.
Over the five-week period, the programme will include a mix of fitness, wellbeing and community-based activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
Planned events include free gym and yoga classes, organised walks, healthy breakfast events and a range of wellbeing sessions delivered in partnership with local businesses and providers.
Ryan Clarke, Manager, Pure Gym is pictured with Eamonn Connolly, Newry BID Manager at the launch of Health in the City. Pure Gym will be providing a warm up for the Half Marathon and a number of taster classes for Health in the City.
A key highlight will be the Newry City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and Kids Fun Run, on Sunday 24th May.
This will bring a significant boost of activity and footfall to the city, alongside family entertainment and opportunities for the public to come out and support participants.
Newry BID has confirmed that all events will be free to attend, with booking details and a full schedule available from Friday 24th April via Newry.com and Newry BID social media channels.
Eamonn Connolly, Newry BID Manager, said: “Health in the City has grown year on year and is now a key part of our programme to support both the wellbeing of our community and increased footfall into the city centre.
“This initiative is about making it easier for people to access activities that support a healthier lifestyle, while also highlighting what is already available across Newry through our member businesses and local providers.
“There will be something for everyone, whether that is trying a new fitness class, attending a wellbeing event or simply coming into the city to support the marathon and enjoy the atmosphere.
“We would encourage people to keep an eye on Newry.com and our social channels from 24th April, where the full programme will be available, and to take the opportunity to get involved.”
Health in the City will officially get underway on Monday 27 April, with a packed programme of activity running through to the end of May.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has confirmed that a woman in her 20’s has died following a two-vehicle road traffic collision in Kilkeel on Monday evening 20th April.
Detective Inspector Stewart from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Collision Investigation Unit said: “Shortly before 6.30pm, we received a report of a collision involving a white Audi A1 and blue Mercedes Benz on the Newry Road.
“Officers alongside colleagues from other emergency services attended, however, sadly the woman was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“Two other people were taken to hospital for treatment for their injuries.
“The Newry Road, which was closed for a number of hours, has now fully re-opened to traffic.
“Our enquiries are continuing, and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision, or to anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage that could assist with our investigation, to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 1288 20/04/26.”
UPDATE:
14.45pm.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland can confirm the name of the woman who died following a two-vehicle road traffic collision in Kilkeel yesterday evening, Monday 20th April.
She was 24-year-old Aoife Tinnelly from the Kilkeel area.
Detective Inspector Stewart from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Collision Investigation Unit said: “Shortly before 6.30pm, we received a report of a collision involving a white Audi A1 and blue Mercedes Benz on the Newry Road.
“Officers alongside colleagues from other emergency services attended, however very sadly Aoife was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“Two other people were taken to hospital for treatment for their injuries.
“The Newry Road was closed for a number of hours but has now fully re-opened.
“Our enquiries are continuing, and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision, or to anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage that could assist with our investigation, to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 1288 20/04/26.”
Glasgow will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games from 23 July to 2 August, bringing the event back to a city that already knows how to stage a major multi-sport summer. For UK audiences, that gives the Games a slightly different pull. It is close to home, easy to follow and built around sports that can quickly draw attention, even for people who do not usually spend much time on athletics, netball or swimming.
It should also appeal to readers looking for something outside the usual football cycle. There will be plenty of familiar names, strong home-nation storylines and a schedule that feels busy without becoming sprawling. Even those who mostly come across events like this through highlights, previews or the odd sports betting market should find there is enough here to keep watching once the medals start being decided.
This will be the 23rd Commonwealth Games, but it is not simply a repeat of Glasgow 2014. The 2026 edition has been designed on a smaller scale, using existing venues and a tighter programme. That may actually help. Rather than spreading attention across too many sports and too many sites, Glasgow 2026 looks set up to move at a better pace, with fewer empty stretches and more sessions that matter.
The first thing worth knowing is that Glasgow 2026 will feature 10 sports. That is a leaner line-up than some previous editions, but it still offers a good mix: athletics and para athletics, swimming and para swimming, track cycling and para track cycling, artistic gymnastics, boxing, judo, netball, bowls and para bowls, weightlifting and para powerlifting, plus 3×3 basketball and 3×3 wheelchair basketball.
In practical terms, it means viewers are likely to get a more concentrated Games. There is less padding and more chance that each day feels defined by proper finals, rather than by events drifting in and out of view. That matters for casual audiences. A compact programme can sometimes be easier to follow than an oversized one.
The strong integrated Para-sport element is another reason this edition stands out. Glasgow 2026 is set to feature the biggest Para medal programme in Commonwealth Games history, which should make the event feel broader and more representative rather than simply smaller.
The sports most likely to cut through
Swimming should sit near the centre of the Games. The programme is expected to be the largest ever at a Commonwealth Games, which makes the pool one of the main engines of the medal table. It is also one of the easiest sports to follow in bursts: heats during the day, finals in the evening, clear head-to-head storylines and plenty of home-nation interest.
Track cycling should be another strong watch, especially in Britain. The Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome is already a familiar stage, and the event itself suits a compact Games. It is fast, easy to understand once the races begin, and often produces repeat names across the week. If you are picking one indoor sport outside swimming to follow closely, cycling is an obvious choice.
Athletics will still provide the broadest spread of stories. It usually does at a Commonwealth Games. There are the blue-riband sprints, the middle-distance events that tend to matter more to British audiences, and the field disciplines that often bring surprise medal contenders into view. The return of the Commonwealth Mile adds a useful historical note too, giving the athletics schedule one extra point of interest.
Netball deserves attention as well, particularly with the Games being held in Glasgow. It already has a committed audience across the UK, and it is one of those sports that often picks up wider interest once the knockout stage comes into sight. A strong Scottish atmosphere could make those sessions feel even bigger.
The names and teams to watch
It is still early for full squad lists, but Scotland already has some obvious focal points. In cycling, Katie Archibald stands out immediately. She has the profile, the record and the home setting to become one of the defining athletes of the Games if selection and fitness align. Scottish cycling more broadly should give the hosts one of their strongest chances of regular visibility.
Para cycling also offers real Scottish medal interest, with Fin Graham and Neil Fachie among the names that add weight to the host-nation story. Because Glasgow 2026 is leaning so heavily into its integrated Para programme, these are not side stories. They should be part of the main daily conversation.
Across the wider home nations, England is likely to have the greatest depth in athletics and swimming, simply because of numbers and strength across multiple disciplines. Wales often looks capable of producing memorable moments in boxing, the pool and selected track events, while Northern Ireland traditionally has the ability to make itself heard in combat sports and targeted medal events. The final shape of the squads will decide the detail, but the broad pattern is already clear: every home nation should have something worth following.
Why the home-nation angle matters
One reason the Commonwealth Games often works well for British audiences is that it breaks away from the usual Team GB structure. Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland compete separately, which changes the mood straight away. Instead of supporting one combined team, viewers get a mix of local pride, rivalry and shifting medal-table interest.
That feels especially relevant in Glasgow. Scotland will not just be taking part; it will be hosting, and that tends to sharpen attention around the squad. Home crowds can change the tone of a session, especially in sports like netball, bowls, boxing and cycling where atmosphere counts.
It also gives the Games a more layered identity. England may still expect a strong medal return, but that does not flatten the event. Scottish success will feel different because of the host factor. Welsh and Northern Irish medals may stand out more because they can shift the narrative of a day. That is part of what makes the Commonwealth Games worth watching on its own terms.
A summer event that could grow on people
Glasgow 2026 may not arrive with the scale of an Olympics, but that does not have to be a weakness. In fact, the opposite may be true. The shorter programme, familiar venues and stronger home-nation framing could make it easier for UK audiences to connect with.
There is enough here to give the Games real shape: swimming sessions packed with medals, fast-paced cycling, athletics with broad appeal, netball with edge, and a meaningful integrated Para programme that should be central rather than decorative. Add in the fact that it is being staged in Glasgow, and the result is a summer event that may feel more immediate and watchable than many people expect.
Cllr Conor Galbraith (SDLP succeeded in getting a night-time economy motion through the ERT Committee in Council
At a full meeting of Newry Mourne and Down District Council on 2nd March 2026, SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith brought forward a motion on concern for the night-time economy of Downpatrick and its impact on the town generally. The motion was initially seconded by Cllr King.
The motion was deferred to the Economic Regeneration and Tourism sub-committee heard this evening (20th April 2026.
Councillor Galbraith read his motion as follows: “Noting with concern the ongoing challenges facing the development and sustainability of the night-time economy within Downpatrick town centre, and the impact this has on town centre vibrancy, employment, and perceptions of safety;
“and recognising Downpatrick’s important role as the County Town of Down, this Council commits to the appointment of a Night Time Economy Champion with a specific initial focus on the regeneration and sustainability of the night-time economy in Downpatrick;
Downpatrick SDLP Cllr Conor Galbraith has brought forward a successful motion at the Economic Regeneration and Tourism council committee.
“will host an engagement event with local businesses and the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group;
“will seek a meeting with a delegation from Belfast City Council to learn from their experience of this process;
“and will develop an action plan for Downpatrick’s night-time economy, taking account of the opportunities afforded by the regeneration of Irish Street.”
The night-time economy in Downpatrick is ailing. And has been for a number of years. Cllr Conor Galbraith’s motion was designed to breathe new life into the County Town.
A council officer reported on the proposal that the Purple Flag was an accreditation scheme whereby the businesses of Downpatrick could work to create a “vibrant, diverse, and safe night-time economy.”
The officer noted that the Downpatrick Living High Streets Framework was launched in 2023 and that the Downpatrick Working Regeneration Group meets monthly to progress projects identified in the action plan. She indicated there was scope to map out the Purple Flag areas based on the Belfast experience and model these for the night-time al all day economy in Downpatrick.
And the next steps included enagaging with the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group to work up an action plan for the night-time economy.
The officer added that also engagement with the business community would be necessary and with local and relevant agencies. The employment of a night-time champion would also be further examined to understand scope and cost.
The Belfast BIDs had appointed a part-time tzar to manage this project looking at improving night-time transport, addressing violence against women and girls, promoting Culture Night, and addressing Pavement Cafe Licensing.
Galbraith sums it up in speaking to his motion
Cllr Conor Galbraith said after reading his motion: “I want to begin by thanking council officers for the work that has gone into this report. It is clear a great deal of effort and consideration has been given to the issues and opportunities surrounding Downpatrick’s night time economy, and that is very much appreciated.
“This motion is about taking the next step. It asking for the appointment of a Night-Time Economy Champion, someone who can provide leadership, coordination and a clear voice for this vital part of our local economy.
SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith has had a motion passed on the Economic Regeneration and Tourism Committee of Newry Mourne and Down District Council seeking support for the Downpatrick night-time economy. It will now be ratified at the next full council meeting in May.
“It also calls for meaningful engagement with our local businesses, pubs, restaurants, cafés, and venues that form the backbone of Downpatrick’s evening and night-time offer. Their insight and experience will be essential if we are to get this right.
“In addition, that council seek to meet with a delegation from Belfast City Council to learn from their experience. Belfast has made significant progress in this area, and there is real value in understanding what has worked, what hasn’t, and how those lessons can be applied locally.
“Ultimately, this is about developing a clear and deliverable action plan for Downpatrick’s night-time economy, one that is ambitious but realistic and rooted in the needs of the town.
“I fully recognise that there will be challenges along the way. Regenerating a night time economy is not something that happens overnight. It requires coordination, investment, and sustained commitment. But doing nothing is not an option.
“I welcome the ongoing work toward Purple Flag accreditation and look forward to seeing that progress. Achieving that standard would send a strong signal that Downpatrick is a safe, vibrant and welcoming place after dark.
“The potential appointment of a Night-Time Economy Champion could play a key role in driving this forward, helping to connect stakeholders, unlock opportunities, and maintain momentum. At its core, this motion is about belief in Downpatrick, belief in its people, its businesses, and its future.
“Because Downpatrick Deserves Better.
Conor Galbraith Survives Challenges From Glyn Hanna and Oonah Hanlon
Sinn Féin Councillor Oonah Hanlon called for an amendment to include ideas of day-time foot fall in Downpatrick, improved visitor experience, and to look at the economy of the area holistically.
Cllr Conor Galbraith rejected the proposal on the basis that he was focussing on the ailing night-time economy but did not exclude the need to examine the wider aspects of this issue.
SDLP Cllr Killian Feehan asked for an amendment to include Newry in the overall proposal. Cllr Galbraith accepted this.
Cllr Glyn Hanna (DUP) asked if Newcastle could be included in this proposal too. Economic Development Manager Conor Mallon said that there was no funding involved at this stage, just council staff resources. He also aske dif he woulkd accept Newcastle too in the towns included. Galbraith rejected the idea.
Speaking after the debate following the background report from the Council officer, Cllr Galbraith thanked the councillors for their support and was glad the motion passed.
The DUP Cllr Callum Bowsie intervened in the final stages and said that Councillors should respect the motions brought forward to the chamber in good faith and that they should not attempt to dilute them down.
Cllr Oonagh Hanlon retorted she would continue her work with the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group.
It was a tense debate but overall Cllr Conor Galbraith pulled off some forward movement that may see changes occurring for the night-time economy in the County Down Town of Downpatrick in the longer-term.
Friends and family gathered to fundraise for two local charities for the late Lisa Magee Lawlor
The farming community and family connections and friends of the late Lisa Magee Lawlor who passed away with breast cancer on 25th June 2026 gathered for a tractor and vintage car run and a farm fun day at the the Black Causeway Road near Strangford.
Organiser Paul Magee said: There were over 200 vehicles that took part in the road run… 130 tractors and a mixture of vintage cars and lorry cabs. It was a well-supported event.
Tractor run stewards David McShane and Niall Conway pictured beside the lead tractor for the Lisa Magee Lawlor memorial fundraising tractor run from near Strangford.
“I just like to thank everyone on behalf of the friends and family who supported the event. We really appreciated it. on the day the sun was shining for Lisa as everyone enjoyed the Country Music from the C&L Roadshow.
Paul Magee, brother of the late Lisa Magee Lawlor, tractor run and event organiser, with his cousin, Jade Curran.
“The burger stall was very busy and the raffle too for the Belgian Blue Calf was well supported. There were other farming items of the raffle too such as bale spikes.
“This was the first fundraising event we have done and it has been a great success.
“So thank you again to everyone who worked so hard to make this event a great success.”
Sinn Féin’s Cathy Mason calls for a bigger, bolder vision for St Patrick’s Day in Downpatrick
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason and Cllr. Oonagh Hanlon have called on Newry Mourne and Down District Council to begin re-evaluating the St. Patrick’s Day in Downpatrick which attracts around 30,000 people.
The South Down MLA said: “Downpatrick has always been the beating heart of St. Patrick’s Day celebration across the Island.
“Sinn Féin recognise the real progress made in recent years and the hard work that has brought the festival to this point.
“This years celebrations were a credit to our local community.
Cllr Oonagh Hanlon and Cathy Mason MLA have called for the St Patrick’s Festival to be improved.
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“However, it’s hard not to notice the untapped potential that our local businesses and community space could benefit from.
“That’s why Sinn Féin are proposing that the Council begin preparations ahead of next year’s celebrations to ensure we continue to build on the festival’s current success.
“I have also written to the Minister for Communities to play his full part in supporting an ambitious, properly planned celebration.
Downpatrick Cllr. Oonagh Hanlon added: “I have proposed that Council review and transform our St. Patrick’s Day plans.
“It’s important that the council engage directly with local businesses, community groups and residents alike to develop a new plan for St. Patrick’s Day that will exceed current expectations.
“Your Sinn Féin team will continue to work with the Council and the local community to create a bigger, bolder vision for St Patrick’s Day in Downpatrick.”
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Editor’s comments on the St Patrick’s parade and festival – time to unleash the creatives
St Patrick is a unifying symbol in Christianity and as such he deserves his place at the table of great festivals around the world. This initiative needs to be a top-down, bottom-up development, building on the core principles of openness, accountability, democracy, and fairness across communities.
There could be more events on in Downpatrick to entertain the family through the day on St Patrick’s Day (weather permitting).(Photo by Jim Masson_0ownNews)
This event has global implications and potential as St Patrick’s days are celebrated from as far away as Hong Kong, Australia, South Africa, North America and in Europe and across the whole of Ireland.
A lot more could be done to lift the festival. For example, why not have a simple pre-festival walk along the same route with ‘St Patrick and a band 2 days before to drum up PR / media attention and kick-start the proceedings pre-empting the world celebrations. Would that not create media attention ? The sun should rise and set in Downpatrick!!
It needs a couple of big names, famous faces. Why not ask the likes of Liam Neeson if he’ll come play St Patrick next year if he’s free from filming and his special skills are available? Or some other well-known face – could be a singer, sports person, comedian, etc etc. Go big! Go famous!
The St Patrick’s festival may be just a little way of healing this broken country and coming up to the 1600 year celebration, isn’t it time that Downpatrick got it’s fair deserves and is recognised for its central role in Irish Christian history.
And it needs big companies to sponsor a few prizes for best dressed, best float etc etc. Businesses too need to be involved eg best dressed shop window competition and spot prizes etc.
And in Newry around 20 years ago, the Santa run started ? Could we not have a St Patrick’s run, everyone (men and women) all dressed up as St Patrick running down the length of Market Street – I’m sure the East Down AC could assist there!
I’ve loads of ideas but what’s the best way to get all the community’s ideas into a framework where we have indeed a new transformative vision for a St Patrick festival and parade fit for the 21st century ?
There needs too be be a series of seminal talks by eminent academics and religious thinkers around the history of early Christian Christianity and St Patrick and other saints, and the St Patrick Centre could accommodate that.
‘Ego Patricius!’ His words!
But it begs the question: what is the best mechanism to deliver this ?
Have a look over the 2026 St Patrick’s Day Photos On Down News Facebook (Click on the links).
Slieve Croob DUP Councillor Alan Lewis has issued a warning to residents following a noticeable increase in online scam activity.
Cllr Lewis said he has been contacted by a growing number of constituents who have fallen victim to increasingly sophisticated scams carried out through emails, phone calls and text messages.
He said: “We are seeing a serious rise in scams through emails, phone calls and text messages, and the cases coming to me are becoming more frequent and, in some instances, absolutely horrific.
DUP Slieve Croob Cllr is concerned at the large amount of online scamming that is on-going.
“Scammers are posing as banks, delivery companies, utility providers and even government services. The messages look genuine and are specifically designed to panic people into clicking links or handing over personal and financial details.
“If you feel under pressure, step back and check it.
“In many cases, these scams are highly convincing, using official logos, language and even spoofed phone numbers to appear legitimate.
“It is becoming increasingly difficult for people to distinguish between what is real and what is fraudulent.
“It is vital that people remain vigilant. Do not click on links in unexpected emails or text messages. Never share passwords, PIN numbers or bank details with anyone.
“Be particularly cautious of messages that create urgency or fear, this is a common tactic used by scammers to pressure people into acting quickly without thinking.
“Always check the sender’s email address or phone number carefully, as many scammers use very convincing lookalike details. If you are unsure, contact the organisation directly using their official website or phone number rather than responding to the message.
“Suspicious emails can be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre by forwarding them to: [email protected].
“Scam text messages can be forwarded to 7726, and fraud can be reported through Action Fraud.
“Reporting these scams is important as it helps authorities track patterns and take action to prevent others from being targeted.
“I would encourage people to share this advice, particularly with older relatives and vulnerable neighbours who are often specifically targeted by these criminals.
“A simple conversation could prevent someone from losing significant sums of money or falling victim to what can be a very distressing experience.”
