A driver is facing a substantial bill of £20,000 due to unpaid tolls, which appears to be the result of an administrative error.

Merseyflow, the operator of the Runcorn-Widnes crossing, has emphasized the importance of notifying them of any changes to the vehicle registered under their discount scheme to avoid potential issues.

Residents in the area are eligible for free crossings through the Local User Discount Scheme, but it is crucial that they maintain up-to-date records to continue receiving this benefit.

A recent incident involved a local driver who allegedly failed to provide necessary documentation to confirm eligibility for the scheme after purchasing a new vehicle.

The driver accumulated penalty charges from December 2023, when the pass expired, to November 2024, resulting in significant fines.

According to Merseyflow, the driver changed vehicles in June 2024 but did not provide proof of eligibility at that time.

It was not until nine months later that the driver submitted the required documentation, leading to the reinstatement of the free pass, as stated by the company.

However, the outstanding fines, which have been referred to a debt collection agency, reportedly cover both the current vehicle and another that the driver claims to have sold in 2021.

In an interview with the BBC, the driver expressed feelings of stress, stating that they had taken the necessary steps but were still facing difficulties.

A Merseyflow spokesperson highlighted the importance of notifying the DVLA immediately in the event of a vehicle sale, transfer, or part-exchange to avoid liability for taxes or fines, emphasizing that failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

The spokesperson further explained that the use of an enforcement agent is typically a last resort for unresolved penalty charge notices.

According to the company, cases that progress to the advanced enforcement stage, involving a visit from an enforcement agent, will have had multiple opportunities to settle the debt and received at least five written notifications.

The spokesperson advised individuals who receive a PCN to take prompt action, as ignoring the issue can lead to significant increases in the debt once it is passed on to an enforcement agent.

The company's message to those who receive a PCN is to address the issue promptly to avoid further complications and increased costs.

In 2025, the Mersey Gateway and the nearby Silver Jubilee Bridge saw over 27 million crossings, with approximately 84,000 vehicles using these bridges daily.

Following an eight-hour open-heart surgery, Chester Osment's heart experienced two episodes of extreme tachycardia, reaching a alarming rate of 280 beats per minute, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

The surgeon informed Chester's parents that their son's heart was unusually complex, unlike any he had encountered previously, highlighting the unique challenges of his condition.

Chester was diagnosed with complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD), a congenital heart condition present at birth, which affects the heart's structure and function.

According to the British Heart Foundation, approximately 13 children are born with heart conditions daily in the UK, a statistic that has raised awareness about the prevalence of congenital heart defects among infants, contrary to common assumptions that heart problems primarily affect older individuals.

Throughout his 15 months, Chester has faced numerous health challenges, including sepsis, Covid-19, and endocarditis, with his mother, Kristy Evans, having to administer life-saving CPR on one occasion.

During the initial eight months of his life, Chester's longest period at home was just four days, as he underwent repeated hospitalizations, surgeries, and intensive care stays, often fighting for his life.

Currently, Chester is recovering at home in Blaenavon, Torfaen, gaining strength while awaiting further major surgery, with his mother reflecting on the remarkable journey he has undertaken so far.

Kristy Evans described her son as "incredible" and "brave," noting that he has defied the odds in many ways, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

When a nurse detected a heart murmur in Chester at just three days old, in November 2024, Kristy was not immediately concerned, but this discovery would ultimately lead to a series of medical interventions.

As Kristy remained in her hospital bed, her partner, Ben, accompanied Chester for further scans, which would reveal the extent of his heart condition.

Upon Ben's return, Kristy sensed that something was amiss, as she noticed he had been crying and immediately went to the window, indicating that the news was not positive.

Kristy recalled feeling overwhelmed upon learning that Chester required surgery, but his fragile condition meant he needed to gain strength before the operation could be performed.

When Kristy asked the doctor about her baby's prognosis, she received an uncertain response, leaving her with significant concerns about Chester's future.

Chester's condition necessitated life-saving corrective surgery, but he needed to reach a minimum weight of 11lb (5kg) or be at least six months old to withstand the procedure.

At birth, Chester weighed 5lb 7oz (2.59kg), and his weight had dropped to 4lb 11oz (2.12kg) in the following days, making it essential for him to gain weight before surgery.

Complete AVSD is a severe congenital heart defect characterized by a large hole in the heart's center, allowing blood to mix between the four chambers and potentially leading to heart failure.

This condition is marked by the presence of an abnormal valve, which enables excessive blood flow to the lungs, further increasing the risk of heart failure.

The abnormal valve and resulting blood flow can cause permanent damage to the lungs if left untreated, emphasizing the need for prompt medical intervention.

Open-heart surgery is typically required to repair the defect, correct the valve, and prevent long-term lung damage, usually performed in early infancy.

After a 10-day intensive care stay, doctors allowed Chester to return home to gain weight and strength before undergoing open-heart surgery.

However, Chester's time at home was consistently interrupted by hospitalizations and medical emergencies.

In one instance, Kristy had to administer CPR when Chester's condition suddenly deteriorated, and he turned blue and floppy while being fed through a tube.

The ambulance was called, and Kristy performed CPR until medical help arrived, highlighting the critical need for parental vigilance and preparedness in such situations.

Reflecting on Chester's journey, Kristy expressed her astonishment at the numerous challenges he has overcome, marveling at his resilience and strength.

Chester has experienced repeated hospitalizations due to Covid-19, viruses, and other health issues, primarily resulting from his fragile condition and struggles with weight gain.

By May, Chester's condition had deteriorated significantly, with symptoms including pale appearance, breathing difficulties, and heart failure, prompting doctors to expedite his surgery.

Weighing 4.7kg (10.3lb) at the time, Chester underwent open-heart surgery on June 2, spending eight hours in the operating theater.

Kristy described the experience of watching Chester being put under anesthesia as extremely difficult, leaving her and her partner uncertain about the outcome.

The cardiac surgeon later commented on the uniqueness of Chester's heart, stating that he had never encountered a similar case before.

In the days following surgery, Chester's heart rate surged to 280 beats per minute on two separate occasions, a condition known as Supraventricular Tachycardia, which doctors attributed to the aftermath of open-heart surgery.

This condition was treated with medication administered through his veins, helping to regulate his heart rate.

The medication successfully reset Chester's heart rate, alleviating the immediate danger posed by the tachycardia episode.

Chester's recovery was further complicated by sepsis and endocarditis, a rare and life-threatening infection of the heart's inner lining, which delayed his discharge until July 8.

Although the surgeons were able to repair the holes in Chester's heart and create new valves, these valves are currently leaking, necessitating ongoing management through medication.

Kristy noted that while Chester is currently stable, his condition can rapidly deteriorate, potentially leading to heart failure, which could occur within weeks or years.

To undergo further surgery for mechanized valve implants, Chester needs to reach a weight of 10kg (22lb), after which the valves will require periodic adjustments as he grows.

Due to his condition, Chester has experienced developmental delays, unable to crawl and preferring to lie down, but despite these challenges, he remains a happy and strong child.

Kristy described Chester as a cheerful boy who enjoys watching Shrek and horse-themed films, such as Spirit, showcasing his lively personality.

Reflecting on her experience with Chester, Kristy emphasized that heart disease can affect individuals of all ages, including babies, who may be born with congenital conditions that require immediate medical attention.

In February, Kristy, accompanied by her Doberman, Raven, and Chester in his pram, will attempt to walk 100 miles to raise funds for life-saving research, aiming to support critical medical advancements.

According to June Davison, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, the prognosis for babies born with severe heart defects in the UK has improved significantly since the organization's founding in 1961, when most did not live to see their first birthday.

As a result of advances in research, the survival rate for these children has increased substantially, with over 80 percent now reaching adulthood.

Davison noted that as these children grow older, many will require additional surgeries and may face certain limitations in their daily lives.

Despite these challenges, Davison emphasized that numerous individuals with congenital heart disease are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

A proposed list of 13 new designated swimming sites in England includes the first official bathing spot on the River Thames in London, as well as the filming location for the TV drama Broadchurch.

Other locations under consideration are a meadow and river site that inspired The Wind In The Willows, and a picturesque spot in Yorkshire where the River Swale flows over limestone steps, creating a series of waterfalls.

If designated, these sites would be subject to regular water quality testing, a move that campaigners hope will lead to improved river and coastal cleanliness.

The government's plan would bring the total number of official bathing sites in England to 464.

The proposed bathing spot on the Thames in London marks a significant improvement in the river's water quality, which was once declared biologically dead due to pollution in the 1950s.

According to Water Minister Emma Hardy, rivers and beaches play a vital role in many communities, providing a space for people to come together and enjoy the outdoors.

In 2025, 87% of England's designated bathing sites received excellent or good ratings, while 93% met the minimum standards for water quality; however, 32 sites failed to meet these standards.

One of the proposed sites is Little Shore, Amble, in Northumberland.

Located in the town of Amble, at the mouth of the River Coquet, Amble Little Shore is a notable spot.

The town of Amble has a notable history, dating back to 1935 when the RMS Mauretania sailed past the town on its final voyage.

On July 6, 1935, the clerk to Amble Urban Council sent a message of greeting to the captain of the Mauretania.

The message read: "Amble to Mauretania. Greetings from Amble, last port in England, to still the finest ship on the seas."

The captain of the Mauretania responded with a message of thanks.

The reply stated: "Mauretania to Urban Council, Amble, to the last and kindliest port in England, greetings and thanks. Mauretania."

Over time, the story of this exchange has been retold, and the term "kindliest" has been replaced with "friendliest" to describe the port.

Another proposed site is Newton and Noss Creeks in Devon, a narrow tidal inlet located off the River Yealm.

The villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo have a long history, dating back to Saxon England, and are situated near the mouth of the River Yealm.

The area is also associated with the notorious pirate Henry "Long Ben" Avery, who was born nearby.

Canvey Island Foreshore in Essex is also under consideration, with its family-friendly sandy beach and marshlands that were made habitable by the Dutch in the 17th Century.

Local legend tells of a ghostly Dutchman who is said to roam the northern parts of the island.

However, it is unlikely that this legend would interfere with the proposed swimming spot.

Sandgate Granville Parade Beach in Kent is another site being considered, with its shingle beach popular among swimmers and kayakers.

The town of Sandgate has been home to several notable residents, including the actress Hattie Jacques and the author H.G. Wells.

H.G. Wells is often referred to as "the father of science fiction", and his work continues to be widely read and adapted.

Queen Elizabeth Gardens in Salisbury, Wiltshire, is also a proposed site, with the River Avon flowing through a green space that was opened in the early 1960s.

The gardens were created to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and offer a tranquil atmosphere, combining formal planting with a relaxed environment.

The park is suitable for visitors of all ages and interests, providing a peaceful space to enjoy the outdoors.

East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, in Dorset, is another proposed site, famous for being the filming location for the ITV drama Broadchurch.

The show's writer, Chris Chibnall, has described the series as "a love letter to the scenery of the Jurassic Coast", with the landscape playing a key role in the story.

The beach and surrounding area provide a unique and picturesque setting for swimming and other outdoor activities.

The combination of the beach and the dramatic cliffs makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pangbourne Meadow in Berkshire is also under consideration, with its meadow and river having inspired The Wind In The Willows.

The story, written by Edwardian author Kenneth Grahame, is a classic tale of boating, caravanning, and picnicking, and is also a tribute to the English landscape.

Swimmers can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with its diverse wildlife and picturesque scenery, while appreciating the inspiration for Grahame's beloved story.

The River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, is another proposed site, with its tidal river flowing through the heart of the town.

The area has a rich history, with King Charles III, then the Duke of Cornwall, having stayed in the area, and the town once being an important port for exporting tin to the Mediterranean.

Lostwithiel's history and natural beauty make it an attractive location for outdoor activities, including swimming.

The River Swale in Richmond, North Yorkshire, is also being considered, with its dramatic waterfalls cascading over limestone steps.

The river has a significant historical and cultural importance, with St Paulinus supposedly performing baptismal rites in the 7th Century, leading to the river being referred to as "England's River Jordan" by 19th-Century writers.

The river's picturesque scenery and historical significance make it a unique and attractive location for swimming and outdoor activities.

Located in Bungay, Suffolk, Falcon Meadow is a notable site in the region.

The area is home to one of the country's oldest public footpaths, making it an ideal location for a leisurely walk or a refreshing swim.

In 2012, Falcon Meadow was sold at an auction, and when local fundraising efforts were unable to secure the funds to purchase it for the town, a local businessman intervened and bought the property.

When the businessman decided to sell the meadow in 2015, he agreed to sell it back to the town at the original purchase price.

The River Thames, which runs through Ham and Kingston in Greater London, is another significant location.

There are plans to establish London's first river bathing site on the Thames, which would be a unique development for the city.

The River Thames has been a source of inspiration for many writers, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about it in 1790 in his poem "Lines written near Richmond".

The poem contains the lines: "Glide gently, thus for ever glide,"

"O Thames! that other bards may see,"

"As lovely visions by thy side"

"As now, fair river! come to me," which reflect the river's beauty and tranquility.

While some swimmers may embody the poetic description of "lovely visions," others may not fit this idealized image.

New Brighton Beach, located in Merseyside, is a popular sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary.

The beach offers stunning views of the Liverpool city skyline and is a great spot to watch ships sail out into the Irish Sea.

The Mersey Estuary is a busy shipping lane, and the beach provides a unique vantage point to observe the maritime activity.

The River Dee, which runs through Chester in Cheshire, is a beloved spot for families, water sports, and wildlife.

Campaigners have emphasized the importance of the River Dee, describing it as a central part of the city's identity and a source of community pride.

According to campaigners, securing bathing water status for the River Dee is not just about swimming, but also about protecting the river's ecosystem and preserving it for future generations.