Affordability is still a challenge for many would-be buyers, but the market’s resilience is noteworthy, Halifax said.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh met the two per cent of young Nepalis who passed the gruelling selection process to join the Brigade of Gurkhas.

EastEnders star Kellie Bright, who plays Linda Carter, and Ross Kemp, who will reprise the role of Grant Mitchell, will return to the soap.