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The UK’s biggest Asian shopping mall is opening in Bradford this weekend

Clementine Hall - 13th May 2026

After years in the making, Signature Mall Bradford will be opening in the heart of the city.

Signature Mall is one of the UK’s most anticipated Asian retail and lifestyle destinations that will officially be opening its doors this Saturday 16 May.

This is a major milestone for the city, bringing together a mix of premium South Asian fashion, jewellery, beauty, dining, and lifestyle brands all under one roof.

It's a huge step for the city as the new opening is expected to attract thousands of visitors from all over the country.

Images: Supplied

Images: Supplied

The space has been designed to deliver a modern and seamless shopping experience, featuring a total of 45 vendors all in one mall.

You'll be able to find everything from premium jewellery and bridal retailers to family-friendly leisure facilities and beauty brands.

There will also be a large food and drink offering.

The opening of Signature Mall is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and provide a
platform for both established and emerging businesses within the South Asian retail sector.

Signature Mall representatives have said: “Signature Mall is more than just a shopping destination, it is a celebration of culture, community, and entrepreneurship. We are proud to bring this exciting new development to Bradford and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond.”

The Signature Mall will be located on Preston Street in Bradford and you can find more about it here via their website.

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Featured image - Supplied

Bradford

An exhibition celebrating 70 years of Eurovision is heading to Bradford later this month

There's a brand new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford, celebrating 70 years of Eurovision.

Kicking off on Friday 15 May at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford this latest instalment is titled 'Setting the Stage: 70 years of the Eurovision Song Contest'.

This new exhibition is dedicated to spotlighting iconic moments that have occurred throughout the annual music event's seven decade history.

It isn't just a chance to see and learn about all things Eurovision, there's also opportunities for you to get involved as this is an interactive experience.

Anyone paying a visit to this museum in Bradford will be able to put on a performance or two with a pop-up stage as well as voting in the Nil Points Jukebox.

This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied — This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied

This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied — This new exhibition taking place in a major museum right in the centre of Bradford is celebrating 70 years of Eurovision / Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons via supplied

In true National Science and Media Museum style, this exhibition devles into the music that has formed Eurovision's legacy as well as showing off all the impressive technical innovations and advancements.

Get up close and personal with gadgets like a Shure Duraplex headset that helps artists deliver groundbreaking performances without the need of a handheld microphone.

And step back in time by observing a Marconi Mk III camera head, which was used for broadcasts during the 50's, a real revelation of its time.

There will be content from fans and professionals who have contributed to the live music show in many ways, from outfits to hosts and of course the varying performers who captivate us every single year.

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The main focus of this exhibition is the evolution of technology and production throughout Eurovision Song Contest's history, however music and performance are also acknowledged too.

Officially, the Eurovision Song Contest final will take place on Saturday 16 May and this Bradford museum is hosting a 'Setting the Stage: Live' event on this very date.

Expect a big family party with live music, a silent disco and a range of engaging activities like crafts and face-painting to get you into the Eurovision spirit.

If you're interested in celebrating 70 years of Eurovision by checking out 'Setting the Stage', you can find tickets and more info HERE.

Read more: A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun is coming to Yorkshire for the summer

Featured Images - © Eurovision Song Contest 2026 / Wikimedia Commons (supplied)

Bradford

Claire’s shutting down all standalone shops in UK and Ireland

In another hit to the high streets, Claire's Accessories is shutting up shop across the UK and Ireland after entering into administration yet again.

Falling into an unfortunate financial status for the second time in less than a year, Claire's will be shutting down all of their standalone stores across Britain, along with their IE branches.

A total of 154 stores will soon disappear, with more than a thousand people set to be put out of work.

Once a mainstay up and down the country, the accessory shop known for all things jewellery, piercings and more has ceased trading effective immediately.

In case you haven't heard about the latest hit to the high street. 😢https://t.co/65x9fDNa4c
— The Manc (@TheMancUK) April 28, 2026

Announced at the start of the week and the end of the first full month of Q2, it was confirmed that Claire's closed their final locations on Monday, 27 April.

With administrators, Kroll, appointed to wrap up business proceedings, an estimated 1,300 English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh workers have now lost their jobs.

Founded in America way back in 1961, Claire's has enjoyed a presence across the Atlantic for more than three decades.

However, with various other contemporaries and cheaper online options having appeared over the years, they've struggled not just to remain profitable but to compete full stop.

They filed for bankruptcy in the US in August 2025 after having already concluded operations in Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Credit: Savills

For many, the outcome isn't all that surprising, but it will nevertheless be a sad loss for many who have seen multiple generations visit these venues over the years.

It is also worth noting, on the other hand, that an estimated 350 concession stands within the likes of Asda supermarkets will remain open - at least for now.

More importantly, it's never good to see people being made redundant, and we send all of our love and support to those impacted by the developments.

Do you have any lasting memories of visits to Claire's here in Yorkshire?

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Featured Images — chrisinplymouth (via Flickr)