Resort crowned happiest place

ST Ives has been crowned Britain’s happiest place to live in an annual survey.

The Cornish seaside town overtook Hexham in Northumberland to take this year’s top spot in Rightmove’s survey, having alternated with the market town for first place since 2019.

Hexham was placed fourth in this year’s study.

Cirencester, in 10th position, was the highest-placed town in the West.

More than 21,000 people responded to Rightmove’s Happy at Home Index, which asks residents how they feel about where they live.

Locations are ranked based on factors such as whether people feel there is a sense of belonging, the proximity to green spaces, local amenities and whether there is a community spirit.