January assemblies hit differently. The Christmas holidays were over. The excitement was gone. And the hall smelled faintly of wet coats and disappointment. You’d shuffle in, sit cross-legged on the cold floor, and know — deep down — that whatever was coming next would not be good news. Here are the five January school assemblies that struck fear into the hearts of pupils everywhere. 5. The “New Year, New Rules” Assembly This one always arrived with a suspiciously cheerful op

January had a very specific vibe. Christmas was over. School was back. The decorations were gone, but the glitter hadn’t quite worn off yet. And on TV? January was chart show season — long countdowns, half-hearted enthusiasm, and music videos that felt cold, moody, and slightly depressing. These weren’t summer bangers. These were songs that thrived in darkness, coat collars, and emotional close-ups. Here are five music videos you swear you only ever saw during January chart s

A Sussex children’s charity founded thanks to the efforts of Dame Vera Lynn is raising money by collecting real Christmas trees from homes across the county

People across Sussex are being warned to prepare for a freezing start to the New Year

South East Coast Ambulance Service has thanked its staff and volunteers after experiencing extremely high demand over the festive period

Brighton’s iconic Palace Pier has been put up for sale, with its owners suggesting a new buyer could be in place by the summer

Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming to screens in January 2026

If you’re over State Pension age, or know someone who is, make sure you’re aware of the benefits and support that Pension Credit can unlock