Go on then, own up – who put another storm on their Christmas list this year? We’re going to hope no one said yes to that.
It might not be what we asked for, but unfortunately, it’s what we’re going to get.
It’s that awkward part of the festive break where the hustle and bustle of the Christmas days have died down, Boxing Day has been and gone, the new year is coming up, and nobody knows what day it is – but what we do know though, sadly, is that another storm is arriving today, and it’s set to batter the UK with some pretty grim weather.
Storm Gerrit was officially been named by the Met Office yesterday, and forecasters say it will bring “strong winds and heavy rain”, with “wintry hazards” also likely in some parts of the country.
With Brits told to prepare for the newly-named storm to arrive today (27 December), a number of weather warnings have been put in place by the Met Office – including two yellow weather warnings, one for wind and one for rain, covering most of north west England.
That means, as usual, Greater Manchester, sounds like it’s in for a bit of a rough time.
The yellow weather warning for rain means we should expect heavy downpours, with a potential for disruption to travel and a risk of flooding, while the yellow warning for wind is also forecast to bring travel disruption, and potential short-term power loss, among other inconveniences.
“Storm Gerrit will run towards western UK on Wednesday and bring with it potential impacts for much of the UK,” explains Frank Saunders, who is a Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office.
“Winds across southern coastal areas of England will be strong, possibly peaking around 70 mph on exposed coastlines, but more widely around 50-60 mph within the warning area.
An unsettled start to Wednesday as #StormGerrit brings strong winds, heavy rain and snow⚠️
☔ Rain sweeping across the country, falling as snow over the higher ground in the north 🌨️⚠️
🌬️ Blustery showers and the occasional sunny spell developing later in Northern Ireland pic.twitter.com/SqWsonImKI
“Rain is an additional hazard from Storm Gerrit, with active weather fronts leading to a wet day for many.”
Mr Saunders also added that snow is “likely to cause problems for some northern areas”, but this will only be briefly for a few upland routes across the Pennines and southern Scotland overnight and early on Wednesday.
For the rest of the UK, including Greater Manchester, it’s the combination of heavy rain and very strong winds that will “dominate”.
Storm Gerrit will transition gradually to the North East late on Wednesday and into Thursday, according to the Met Office, and then, when looking forward to later in the week, forecasters say we should prepare for “further unsettled weather” is likely later in the week.
Yet again, strong winds, rain, and even some snow are expected across parts of the UK.
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day
Emily Sergeant
Manchester will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ Day) with a poignant ceremony at the city’s Cenotaph today.
While VE Day in May 1945 signified the end of World War II in Europe, thousands of British, Commonwealth, and Allied troops continued to fight in Asia and the Pacific – but VJ Day, which was declared on 15 August 1945, brought a final end to the global conflict.
The day remains a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom, and Manchester‘s commemorations today will aim to honour their courage, resilience, and sacrifice.
The event will bring together veterans, civic leaders, cadets, and members of the public in a shared moment of reflection and gratitude.
This year’s commemorations in the city centre will begin at 11:50am.
15 August 1945 marked Victory over Japan.
Join us tomorrow at 11:40am at the Cenotaph to commemorate the 80th anniversary of WWII in the Far East and honour those who served🫡
A two minute silence will be held at 12 noon, marked by a maroon.
Commemorations will start with opening remarks from The Very Reverend Rogers Govender, followed by a solemn programme of remembrance.
The service will begin at 11:58am with The Exhortation recited by Brigadier AG Ross OBE, followed by The Last Post sounded by WO2 Nick Burroughs, and then at midday, a national two-minute silence will be observed – which will be marked by the firing of a maroon.
Brigadier Ross will then recite the Kohima Epitaph, leading into the wreath laying ceremony featuring cadets from the Manchester Trafalgar Unit Sea Cadets, and the Lord Mayor of Manchester.
The service will conclude with the singing of the National Anthem.
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day / Credit: Manchester City Council
Iconic buildings and landmarks in Manchester, including the Manchester Civic Quarter Heat Network (CQHN) tower, will illuminate their facades from 9pm tonight to honour VJ Day.
“Today, Manchester stands united in remembrance and respect,” commented Councillor Carmine Grimshaw, who is the Lord Mayor of Manchester. “The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is not only a tribute to those who served and sacrificed, but also a celebration of peace and resilience.
“Manchester’s commemorations today reflect the deep gratitude we hold for those who gave so much for the freedoms we have today.”
Featured Image – Manchester City Council
News
First look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style lodges where you can sleep amongst the animals
Emily Sergeant
The first look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style resort has been released to the public, and it looks stunning.
In case you missed it, artist impression images of the highly anticipated wildlife lodge experience at Chester Zoo, called The Reserve, were unveiled earlier this year ahead of its grand opening to the public this month following several years in the works… but now opening day is right around the corner, the first official images have been shared.
The Reserve at Chester Zoo features 51 beautifully-designed lodges, with some overlooking a private savannah where giraffes, zebras, and blesbok antelope roam free, while others are nestled beside a peaceful lake.
Guests can choose from a variety of different lodges to stay in, available for up to nine people.
The lodges have been crafted using natural and sustainable materials, with the décor being inspired by landscapes in Africa, and it’s already being described as ‘the ultimate African safari experience right here in the UK’.
Combining luxurious accommodation with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the zoo’s world-renowned wildlife, Chester Zoo says the new resort is set to transform how travellers experience conservation in the UK.
Those behind the project say the innovative concept – where every stay directly-funds the protection of threatened species globally – will help to strengthen the zoo’s role as ‘one of the country’s most loved and most impactful conservation charities’.
Chester Zoo has given the first look at its new luxury safari-style lodges / Credit: Chester Zoo
“The Reserve at Chester Zoo is a game-changer, not just for luxury travel but for conservation,” commented Jamie Christon, who is the CEO at Chester Zoo.
“Born from our long-standing commitment to protecting African wildlife, we’ve created a truly immersive, safari-style experience right here in the UK, where guests may wake up to giraffes on their doorstep, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and relax in beautifully designed lodges surrounded by nature.
“But what makes The Reserve truly unique is its purpose.
“Guests at The Reserve aren’t just going to enjoy a luxury break – they’re going to power our conservation movement for generations to come.”
Stays at the resort are now available to book online / Credit: Chester Zoo
In the off-season, prices for the lodges start from £375, while one-night stays in summer start from £672.50.
And then in peak season, for the more luxurious lodges, prices can go all the way up to £2,486, but it is worth noting, however, that this does include guided safari tours and going behind the scenes with the giraffes.
Emily Sergeant -
27th December 2023 
