Take a sneaky peak behind the scenes and discover the unique craftsmanship and engineering skills that keep the nation's beautiful waterways open for everyone to enjoy. Throughout the winter the Canal & River Trust will be holding free open days so that you can delve deeper into history. For budding builders, engineers and architects it's a chance to pull on your wellies and get muddy discovering how the canals were constructed, walk in the footsteps of the original Victorian engineers and try the traditional construction methods of puddling or mixing lime mortar. 

The second series of a six-part ITV documentary set onboard a Princess Cruises ship will air from Thursday January 12 at 8.30pm. 'The Cruise' reveals what life is like for crew and guests onboard the 3,560-guest Royal Princess. The second series was filmed in the Mediterranean this summer. Hugh Bonneville, who provided the voiceover for the first series, will reprise his role for series two. Royal Princess was launched in 2013 in Southampton by HRH, The Duchess of Cambridge.

Impulse buying is putting the health and welfare of millions of West Midlands pets at risk, according to new research from the UK’s leading vet charity. The latest PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report reveals that over a quarter (27%) of West Midlands pet owners no research at all before taking on a new pet, compared with the national average of 24%.  This means that many do not know enough about what’s needed to ensure their pet’s health and welfare.

It’s the busiest social time of the year, with many of us looking forward to catching up with family, friends and colleagues. Or are we? For a new study by Fisherman’s Friend suggests that as many as two out of five in the West Midlands (40.42%) will have no qualms about inventing or exaggerating minor ailments in order to get out of unwelcome parties and social functions this Christmas.

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, will be delivering hampers to homeless dogs this Christmas after 170 homelessness organisations requested parcels for 1200 dogs. With the number of people rough sleeping in England doubling since 2010, this service is as vital as ever. The charity will be delivering gifts to homelessness organisations in Birmingham for almost 30 dogs.