Families across the West Midlands are finding cheaper ways to celebrate Halloween, from costume swaps and second-hand outfits to homemade costumes. Charity shops are seeing more demand, and community workshops in Coventry teach families to make costumes and decorations from items already at home.
Two 88-year-olds, Barbara Thompson and Fred Jenkins, found love again at their retirement village in Sutton Coldfield after losing their spouses. They now train together, play games, dance, garden side by side and have enjoyed their first holiday together.
Two 19-year-olds, Erica Matteo and Luke Anderson, were ordained as elders at a special service in Sandyhills Parish Church in Baillieston. They became the youngest people in recent Church of Scotland history to take on the role after an 18-month internship. Their church community has warmly welcomed their fresh ideas and maturity.
A charity walk this autumn will light up streets to raise support for a children's hospice.
