According to the latest annual report from the Senedd’s Standards Commissioner, the number of new complaints submitted against Members of the Senedd (MSs) fell significantly during the last reporting year. Between 2025 and 2026, a total of 86 complaints were received, compared with 136 during 2024-25 – a decrease of 37%.

However, outgoing Standards Commissioner Douglas Bain has warned that the recent increase in the number of elected members, many of whom are new to the Senedd, is likely to lead to a higher number of complaints in the future.

The report covers complaints received between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. Of those, 21 related to members’ activity on social media platforms, while 12 concerned the misuse of resources. Another 12 complaints involved failures to update registered interests within the required four-week deadline, and nine focused on the standard of service provided by individual members.

A number of other complaints covered a broad range of issues, including matters linked to Welsh Government policy and subjects that fell outside the commissioner’s area of responsibility.

The report noted that many complaints were deemed inadmissible because, even if the allegations had been proven, they would not have amounted to a breach of the Senedd’s rules of conduct.

During the reporting period, only one member was found to have breached the relevant standards rules. Conservative MS Janet Finch-Saunders was determined to have committed a breach.

Reflecting on the findings, Mr Bain said the expansion of the Senedd and the arrival of many first-time members would almost certainly result in an increase in complaints in the years ahead.

He said: “The increase in the number of Members and the fact so many of them have not previously been Members will almost certainly result in an increase in the number of complaints received.”

Emergency services, including South Wales Police and paramedics from the Welsh Ambulance Service, were called to Fabian Way at around 9pm after reports of a collision involving four vehicles.

Early reports suggest the crash may have been caused by a car travelling on the wrong side of the road into oncoming traffic, although this has not been officially confirmed by police.

All four injured individuals were transported to hospital for treatment. Thankfully, their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

A 37-year-old woman has since been arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of drink or drugs.

A spokesperson for the police said officers responded to the scene shortly after 9pm and confirmed that paramedics attended, treating those involved before taking four people to hospital. The woman remains under investigation in connection with the incident.

The Tidenham Tunnel, which links Tintern and Sedbury along the Wye Valley Greenway, is a vital habitat for lesser horseshoe bats. Around 26% of the entire UK population of this rare species lives in the surrounding area, making the tunnel one of the most important bat roosts in the country.

Because of this, the tunnel is closed every winter to protect the bats during their hibernation period. Even when it reopens for the summer months, the lighting is kept deliberately low to avoid disturbing them. Visitors are asked not to use torches or flash photography, and not to look for bats as they pass through.

A historic railway reborn

The tunnel first opened in 1876 as part of the Wye Valley railway line. After decades of disuse, it was restored in 2019 thanks to volunteers and local charities, before reopening to the public in 2021. Today, it forms part of the five‑mile Wye Valley Greenway — a flat, scenic route that has become a favourite for families, cyclists and walkers.

Inside, the tunnel’s high arches and soft, dim lighting create a hypnotic atmosphere. The bats roost in alcoves that run the entire length of the structure, and their presence is the reason the tunnel feels so dark and peaceful.

Jeremy Cowen, volunteer coordinator for the Wye Valley Greenway, said around 50 bats currently live in the tunnel. They are protected by law, meaning any deliberate disturbance of the bats or their habitat is a criminal offence.

A route designed around nature

The tunnel is free to enter and open daily until 8pm throughout the summer season. It will remain accessible until October 1, 2026, when it will close again for the bats’ winter hibernation.

Visitors are advised to keep left to avoid collisions with cyclists, and on bright days, the Greenway team even recommends wearing sunglasses for the final half‑mile before entering the tunnel so your eyes can adjust to the darkness.

Kevin Ford, destination manager for Monmouthshire, said the Greenway has become a hugely popular route:  

“It’s the best way to cycle between Tintern and Sedbury because it’s completely flat,” he said. He added that those passing at dawn or dusk may be lucky enough to see bats entering or leaving the tunnel.

A rare blend of wildlife, history and adventure

The Tidenham Tunnel is more than just a walkway — it’s a remarkable example of how historic structures can be brought back to life while protecting the wildlife that depends on them. Its reopening each summer offers a unique chance to experience a piece of railway history, a thriving bat habitat and one of the most atmospheric tunnels in Wales.

More information and opening times can be found on the Wye Valley Greenway website.

Claire Thomas, from south Wales, had been cycling through Denbighshire and was excited to visit the iconic Horseshoe Falls in Llangollen — a 140‑metre weir designed by Thomas Telford and considered one of the jewels of the Wye Valley.

But when she arrived, her excitement quickly turned to disappointment.

“I was so excited to visit the beautiful and iconic falls,” she told Pulse Media. “But it was with great sadness that I found it had succumbed to the amazing weather and people’s laziness — there was litter everywhere. Such a very sad sight to see.”

‘I picked it up myself’

Claire, a keen outdoor enthusiast, said she couldn’t walk away without doing something. She began gathering the rubbish herself, filling bags with discarded waste.

“As part of my journey I’ve been doing small litter‑picks — but nothing on this scale,” she said. “To my shock there were no public bins in the area. It would be fantastic if the local authority examined the ongoing problem of litter at Horseshoe Falls.”

She urged for both landfill and recycling bins to be installed to help keep the area “in pristine condition”.

Council: bins at the river are ‘not feasible’

Denbighshire Council said bins are available at Llantysilio Green car park, which provides access to the falls. However, installing bins at the bottom of the slope beside the river is “not feasible due to access and resource issues”.

A spokesperson said rangers regularly litter‑pick the site, with one staff member recently removing five bags of rubbish in a single visit.

“We urge people visiting Horseshoe Falls and other countryside sites to be respectful,” the council said. “Littering is a form of anti‑social behaviour and is a criminal offence.”

The council added that rangers routinely remind visitors to keep the area clean, and signage makes clear that camping, fires and BBQs are prohibited.

A world‑renowned heritage site under pressure

Horseshoe Falls is a key entry point to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Llangollen Canal World Heritage Site, an area recognised internationally for its industrial and cultural importance.

But with its rising popularity has come increasing pressure. Volunteers often work alongside council teams to tackle the constant stream of rubbish left behind by visitors — a battle they say they frequently lose.

The council said it will continue promoting responsible tourism and encouraging visitors to take their litter home.

“There is no excuse for dumping litter anywhere in the county,” a spokesperson said. “We encourage the public to report any incidents of littering or fly‑tipping.”

‘A beautiful place deserves better’

For Claire, the experience was a stark reminder of how easily natural beauty can be spoiled.

“Horseshoe Falls is stunning,” she said. “It deserves to be looked after. People need to respect these places — they won’t stay beautiful unless we do.”

The Home Office confirmed this week that the rapper — who now goes by Ye — has been denied entry on the grounds that his presence would not be “conducive to the public good”. The move followed widespread backlash over his planned headline slot at Wireless Festival, which has since been cancelled, and his history of antisemitic and pro‑Nazi statements.

Sir Keir Starmer said West “should never have been invited” and that the government “stands firmly with the Jewish community” in tackling antisemitism.

Nigel Farage, however, argued that West should not be barred from the UK on free‑speech grounds. He said he found West’s comments “vile” but warned that banning people for their views was a “dangerous path”.

Farage said: “If we start banning people from entering the country because we don’t like what they say, I worry where that ends up… I wouldn’t ban people even if I think what they say is thoroughly objectionable, unless the line is crossed and you see direct incitement of violence.”

Harriet Harman strongly criticised his stance during Sky’s Electoral Dysfunction podcast, saying: “It’s so deplorable that Nigel Farage is trying to lead a culture war against this. What kind of society does he want us to be living in?”

She referenced concerns about security at Jewish schools and synagogues, saying these issues affect “all of us, not just the Jewish community”.

Reform UK has been contacted for comment.

Farage has previously condemned rising antisemitism in the UK and has been a vocal supporter of Israel. He has also faced historic allegations of racist and antisemitic behaviour during his school years, which he has denied, saying he “never directly racially abused anybody” and that the claims have a “strong political element”.

The debate over West’s ban continues to spark wider discussion about free speech, public safety and the government’s approach to extremism.

---

Interviews with defence sources reveal widespread frustration over Defence Secretary John Healey’s reform programme, which aims to reshape how the UK rearms, procures weapons and prepares for future conflict. One source said there is “lots of ill feeling among the civil servants” and “little meaningful action”. 

Naming disputes and internal delays

The newly created National Armaments Director Group (NAD Group) — responsible for procuring billions of pounds of military equipment — has already faced internal disputes, including arguments over whether to rename it the Royal Armaments Directorate. One source said the abbreviation “NAD” being slang for “testicle” had caused “unfortunate amusement”. 

The MoD has denied any plans to change the name.

A mass email intended to inform 27,000 defence staff about new reporting structures had to be halted due to inaccuracies, and corrected emails have still not been issued — despite the NAD Group becoming fully operational on 1 April. 

Long‑delayed defence investment plan

The MoD has also failed to publish its long‑promised Defence Investment Plan, which should outline what equipment the UK will buy over the next decade. It was expected last autumn but has been repeatedly delayed, reportedly due to Treasury funding issues.

“There is a gap of billions of pounds just to deliver the programme of record,” one defence industry source said. “It is so broken inside.” 

Reforms criticised as ‘theatrics’

Healey’s reforms include creating a new Military Strategic Headquarters to decide how the UK fights future wars, with the NAD Group then responsible for sourcing the required equipment.

However, multiple defence insiders say the reforms have changed job titles rather than culture, with the same officials who oversaw previous procurement failures now tasked with delivering the overhaul.

“It is reform theatrics,” one industry source said. “We have the same people in similar jobs just under a different label.” 

Industry left waiting for contracts

Defence companies say they are being left in limbo, with order books empty as they wait for the NAD Group to issue contracts.

“I am twiddling my thumbs trying to find something to do,” one defence employee said. “I half expect to lose my job.” 

Some firms are reportedly considering moving overseas, with Germany and the US investing far more aggressively in defence.

MoD rejects criticism

The MoD strongly rejected claims the reform programme is failing, calling the criticism “incorrect” and insisting the changes represent “the biggest shake‑up of UK defence for over 50 years”. 

It said reforms are already delivering results, including “clearer accountability”, reduced duplication and improved procurement processes.

‘You’ll go to the next war with the old stuff’

Air Marshal Ed Stringer warned that without genuine cultural change, the UK risks entering future conflicts with outdated equipment.

“You’re going to the next war with the old stuff,” he said. “You’ll find, pretty quickly on, you’re taking casualties.” 

---

The proposed site, located at Upper Broughton Farm near the Shropshire–Powys border north‑west of Bishop’s Castle, would provide around 500 burial plots and may also include space for domestic pets.

Natural burial grounds — sometimes called woodland or green burial sites — focus on sustainability and minimal environmental impact. They avoid concrete vaults, steel caskets and toxic embalming fluids, instead using biodegradable materials and encouraging the land to return to nature.

The applicants estimate the site would host five to eight burials a year. They plan to plant native wildflowers to boost biodiversity and maintain the peaceful, rural character of the area.

A design and access statement says visitors would park at Camlad Barns and walk across the lane to the burial ground. The existing field gate, already used for overspill parking during events at the Barns, can “readily accommodate vehicles and persons arriving for a burial”.

The statement adds:  

“The natural burial ground is intended to provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional burial practices… avoiding the use of traditional embalming methods that utilise toxic chemicals that can leach into the wider environment.”

It also highlights concerns about the emissions and fuel use associated with cremation, as well as the environmental impact of stone memorials.

The burial ground would be managed by Mr and Mrs Leeke as part of their wider farm operations, with maintenance including hedge cutting, fencing repairs and care of wildflower areas.

The applicants say they have spoken extensively with neighbours and local residents, and feedback so far has been “extremely positive”.

---

Dylan Dawes, 50, worked on radio shows for well‑known presenters and comedians while based at the broadcaster’s headquarters in Llandaff, Cardiff. During his trial, the court heard that Dawes had downloaded more than 6,200 indecent images, including 192 Category A images, the most serious classification.

A judge said there was “overwhelming evidence” against the married father‑of‑three, who had the images spread across four devices — a laptop, a hard drive and two iPads.

Search terms included ‘jailbait’

Jurors were told that Dawes had used search terms such as “jailbait” while accessing the illegal material. Despite this, he insisted he had “no idea” how the images appeared on his devices, suggesting that colleagues at the BBC could have used them while he left them unattended in open‑plan offices.

Dawes told Pulse Media he had worked as a producer for BBC Radio Wales before moving into a digital content role. He said he often left his computer at his desk for “extended periods of time” while working in studios.

Police raid after family holiday

The court heard that Dawes had returned from a family holiday to Disneyland Paris in February 2022, arriving home at around 1am. Just six hours later, police officers woke him at his home in Canton, Cardiff, and arrested him. He was taken to Cardiff Bay police station for questioning.

Dawes was suspended on full pay following his arrest and later signed off sick with stress. He admitted he did not carry out any investigation into who else may have accessed his devices.

Prosecutors said the offences spanned 16 years, between December 2006 and March 2022. Devices seized included a Freecom hard drive, a Compaq laptop and two iPads.

Dawes denied all wrongdoing

In interviews, Dawes denied possessing or making any indecent images, claiming he had “never knowingly used, accessed, downloaded or sought indecent images of children”. He said he had only downloaded “regular pornography” and suggested colleagues could have used his devices.

However, the jury rejected his explanation after a four‑day trial.

Found guilty on all counts

Dawes was found guilty of three counts of possessing indecent images and three counts of making indecent images. He has been bailed ahead of sentencing next month and must now register as a sex offender.

Judge Eugene Egan told him:  

“The jury has found you guilty on what they found to be absolutely overwhelming evidence.”

A pre‑sentence report and medical report will be prepared before he returns to court.

Officers carried out two arrests on Wednesday after searching a property in Undy, Monmouthshire, where they seized a significant amount of suspected counterfeit cash, two samurai swords, nunchucks, mobile phones and other electronic devices.

Alongside the Newport suspect, a 36‑year‑old man from Bristol was also arrested on suspicion of arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child and possession of a weapon in a private place.

A third man — a 31‑year‑old from Cornwall — had already been charged in connection with the investigation and remains remanded in custody to appear in court at a later date.

Detective Inspector Emma Coopey said child exploitation has a devastating impact not only on victims but on communities across Gwent.

She said: “If you or someone you know has suffered abuse or has concerns about someone who may be suffering abuse, please come forward and speak to us. We will listen to you. Our team works tirelessly to provide a safe and supportive environment where victims feel able to speak openly and to ensure you have access to any help or support you need.”

The investigation is ongoing.

---

Nancy Pexton, 69, is charged with killing Jennifer Abbott at her flat in Camden, north London, on 10 June last year. Prosecutors told the Old Bailey that there was no evidence Ms Abbott was alive after Pexton visited her home that day.

Three days later, a neighbour forced open the door after becoming concerned he could no longer hear Ms Abbott’s corgi barking. Inside, he found her partially naked and decomposing on the floor with a large slash wound across her neck and gaffer tape over her mouth. Emergency services were called immediately.

Prosecutor Bill Boyce KC said Ms Abbott’s Rolex — a watch she was “greatly attached to” — was missing. When police later searched Pexton’s bag, they found the watch. Pexton allegedly told officers: “Oh yes, that’s my sister’s. She asked me to look after it.”

A post‑mortem examination found Ms Abbott had suffered several stab and slash wounds, as well as a defensive injury to her right hand.

The court heard Pexton, who is nine months younger than her sister, was effectively homeless at the time and had been staying near Baker Street. After the alleged killing, she contacted her GP claiming she had taken an overdose and was taken to hospital, where she remained until her arrest on 18 June.

Pexton denies murder. The trial continues.

Plans have been submitted for a hydroelectric system at Treforest Weir, just south of the Broadway/Glyntaff interchange. If approved, the scheme would generate a large chunk of the Lido’s electricity using the natural flow of the river.

How the scheme would work

The proposal includes:

- A 215–300kW hydroelectric turbine  

- A new hydraulic channel built alongside the existing weir  

- A replacement fish pass  

- A turbine house, screens, outfall and new access route  

- A transformer and cabling to link the system to the Lido  

Most of the existing Victorian weir structure would stay in place, but listed building consent is needed because part of the old fish pass would be replaced.

Local business would be affected

The plans say Riverbank Car Sales, a business next to the site, would need to temporarily shut during construction. Its garage building would be demolished to make space for access and a construction compound.

The business has objected, saying the proposal threatens their livelihood and has caused stress, and that discussions with the council have been unclear so far.

Why the council is recommending approval

RCT planning officers say the scheme would:

- Help Wales move toward its target of 70% renewable electricity by 2030  

- Have only a modest visual impact  

- Use an existing watercourse rather than creating a new one  

- Preserve most of the historic weir structure  

They say the benefits outweigh the heritage concerns, especially as the works are reversible.

What happens next

Both the planning application and the listed building consent will go before RCT’s planning committee on Thursday, April 16.

If approved, the River Taff could soon be helping to power one of Pontypridd’s most popular attractions.

---

The incident happened at around 11.55am on Friday, March 6, on the footpath next to the A40. Gwent Police has launched an investigation and is urging anyone who may have seen what happened to come forward.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Officers are investigating a report of indecent exposure on the footpath next to the A40, Monmouth, at around 11.55am on Friday 6 March. This man was seen nearby at the time and may be able to assist with enquiries.”

Police say enquiries are ongoing and are asking anyone with information — including dashcam or CCTV footage — to get in touch quoting log reference 2600070728.

Information can be reported by calling 101, sending a direct message to Gwent Police on social media, contacting the force via its website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

---

Ravelle Melbourne, 32, carried out four separate attacks over nine months, each triggered by jealous accusations that his partner had looked at other men. He was jailed for five years and three months, with an extended licence period of two years, at Cardiff Crown Court.

A pattern of escalating violence

The court heard the couple had been together for a year when Melbourne first attacked the victim on New Year’s Day 2025. After spending the day with family, he pushed her onto a bed, causing her to hit her head on a wall, before shoving her into a bedside unit.

A second assault followed in April after an argument in Llanishen. When the victim refused to let him into her flat, Melbourne pushed her to the floor, scratched her back and kicked her in the head before leaving.

The violence escalated again in June after Melbourne accused her of looking at another man at a Morrisons petrol station. Back at her flat, he dragged her off the sofa, hit her with a coffee table, threw a broken table top at her leg, and hurled a hoover and baby gate at her.

Jaw fractured in final attack

The most serious assault happened on September 12, when Melbourne became angry about her plans to meet friends.

He pulled her off the sofa, threw a baby gate at her head “with full force”, ripped her nightgown and shut the curtains to stop her escaping. As she screamed for help, he covered her mouth and pulled her jaw, causing her to bleed.

Despite briefly allowing her to go to the bathroom, he continued hitting her. She eventually managed to call for help, though Melbourne threatened to “knock her out” if she contacted police.

Officers arrived and arrested him. The victim was taken to hospital where scans revealed multiple fractures to her jaw. She required surgery, metal plates, screws and the removal of several teeth.

‘Nightmares, pain and fear’ — the victim’s words

In a statement read to the court, the victim described the lasting impact:

- “I wake up in the night with hot sweats and lash out in my sleep as if I’m trying to defend myself.”  

- “I experience constant pain in my face… the cold makes it worse.”  

- “I have nightmares about Ravelle hitting me.”  

- “I distanced myself from my family. I was scared to come to court.”  

She said she fears her jaw could break again and still struggles with eating.

No previous convictions — but violence described as ‘sustained and serious’

Melbourne, of Clive Road, Canton, pleaded guilty to wounding and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He had no previous convictions.

His barrister said he had stable employment and strong family ties, but Recorder Claire Pickthall said the attacks were “repeated, escalating and deeply harmful”.

Melbourne was also handed a 10‑year restraining order banning him from contacting the victim.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The former Love Island star, 26, appeared on Good Morning Britain to promote his upcoming boxing match against strongman Eddie Hall — a fight scheduled for June 13, just one day after Molly‑Mae’s due date.

‘That’s a family matter — we’re dealing with it’

As the interview wrapped up, presenter Charlotte Hawkins asked the question everyone was waiting for:

“Tommy… the fight is on June 13, and Molly‑Mae is due on June 12. How is she feeling about the timing?”

Tommy immediately shut it down.

“I just want to thank the Lord for blessing me with another child. That is a family matter — we’re dealing with that fantastically. Everything will be perfect, and we’ll deal with it as a family. Thank you.”

He offered no further details, making it clear he wasn’t willing to discuss the situation publicly.

A turbulent first year of parenthood

Tommy and Molly‑Mae welcomed their first child, Bambi, in January 2023 — a period Molly‑Mae has since described as emotionally overwhelming.

She previously revealed she carried “a lot of trauma” from early motherhood, relying heavily on her sister Zoe and mum Debbie while Tommy spent four weeks in Saudi Arabia for a training camp shortly after the birth.

The couple briefly split before reconciling later in the year.

Baby number two — and a name people ‘won’t like’

The pair announced their second pregnancy in February with a video filmed at home, captioned:

“Soon to be four.”

Molly‑Mae has been sharing updates through her YouTube channel, recently teasing that the baby’s name will divide opinion.

“I can’t wait for everyone to hate it,” she joked.  

“It’s a different name — we were never going to choose something ordinary.”

She added she has only ever heard of one other baby with the same name.

Tommy focused on fight night

Despite the tight timing, Tommy insists he’s fully committed to his bout with Eddie Hall — joking that some of the challenges in training “shouldn’t even be legal”.

The fight will take place just 24 hours after Molly‑Mae’s due date, leaving fans wondering whether he’ll be racing from the delivery room to the ring.

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Data obtained from all 49 UK fire services shows 432 e‑bike fires were recorded in 2025 — a 38% increase on the previous year. E‑scooter fires also rose sharply, climbing to 147 incidents, up 20% on 2024.

Fire investigators say the majority of these incidents are linked to failing lithium‑ion batteries, often found in cheap or unregulated products bought online.

‘Always cut‑price products’ — expert warns of dangerous batteries

Nick Bailey from BatteryIQ said the devices involved in fires are almost always low‑cost imports with poor quality control.

He warned of a growing black market in DIY and counterfeit batteries, particularly among delivery riders, with some packs even being built from reclaimed vape batteries.

Bailey said:

“I wouldn’t keep a battery in my home without continuous monitoring — regardless of what the manufacturer’s sticker says.”

London remains the UK’s biggest hotspot

London Fire Brigade recorded the highest number of incidents by far, with Greater Manchester and Nottinghamshire also identified as major hotspots.

Lithium‑ion battery fires are especially dangerous because they:

- Ignite extremely quickly  

- Burn at intense temperatures  

- Release toxic vapours  

- Can re‑ignite even after appearing extinguished  

The risk has become so severe that e‑bikes and e‑scooters are now banned from the London Underground.

Electrical Safety First says the surge in fires is becoming a national emergency.

Chief executive Lesley Rudd warned:

“Poorly made batteries and accessories are a major route through which dangerous devices enter people’s homes. Without strong, enforceable changes, further loss of life is inevitable.”

Consumer group Which? also warned that unsafe products are “increasingly saturating” online marketplaces, undercutting retailers who follow safety laws.

Government plans crackdown on unsafe online sales

In response to the rising threat, the government has launched a consultation aimed at tightening product safety rules.

Under the proposals, online marketplaces would be legally required to:

- Prevent dangerous products being listed  

- Identify unsafe items  

- Remove them quickly  

The move comes as private e‑scooters — still illegal to ride in public — continue to be widely used in cities across the UK.

---

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The issue was first reported around 5pm on Sunday, with many locals saying the smell was still lingering the following morning. Some described it as so overpowering they could “almost taste it”.

Fire crews search Asda petrol station as source hunt begins

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service were seen at Asda Caerphilly, checking the area around the petrol station for leaks. The investigation has now been handed over to Natural Resources Wales (NRW), who believe the source of the pollution is somewhere near:

- Howard Drive  

- Dyfed Drive  

- Davies Drive  

- Close to Churchill Park

Residents in these areas are being urged to check for leaking fuel tanks or anything that could be entering surface water drains.

Fuel-like substance spotted in local brook

Videos sent to Pulse Media show what appears to be a fuel-type sheen in Nant yr Aber, the brook running through Pont‑Y‑Pandy woods. Homes backing onto the woodland have reported the smell inside their properties.

One resident said the fumes were so strong she could “almost taste it”.

Environmental officers working to contain pollution

Jon Goldsworthy, duty incident manager for NRW, confirmed:

“We’re investigating a fuel pollution incident affecting a stream in the Pontygwindy area of Caerphilly.”

He said absorbent booms and pads had been placed in the water to help contain the contamination while officers continue searching for the source.

NRW is urging anyone with information to report it via their website or by calling 0300 065 3000.

Concerns for health and wildlife

Alongside worries about fumes entering homes, residents have raised fears about the impact on local wildlife, with the brook running through a well‑used woodland area.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said they are aware of the strong smell and confirmed NRW is now leading the response.

Council leader monitoring situation

Caerphilly council leader Jamie Pritchard told Pulse Media he is aware of the incident and is making enquiries as investigations continue.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Haye, 45, is returning to screens for the new I’m A Celebrity… South Africa series, while Flanagan, 35, has spoken candidly about the complicated bond they once shared — and the pain that came with it.

‘I didn’t mean to fall in love with him, but I did’

The pair first met in the jungle back in 2012, but sparks didn’t fly until they reunited on the 2022 edition of the show. Their connection later became a talking point on Celebs Go Dating in September 2024, where Flanagan broke down while discussing their romance.

She told relationship experts:

“I’d known him for 10 years… I didn’t mean to fall in love with him, but I did. We had this amazing connection — we were like fire.”

But the actress admitted the relationship quickly became emotionally difficult, as Haye was in an open relationship at the time.

Helen: ‘I wouldn’t have enjoyed watching the man I loved with someone else’

Addressing the widely circulated rumours that she was part of a three‑way relationship, Flanagan firmly denied it:

“No, it wasn’t a throuple. I was in love with him. I wouldn’t have enjoyed watching the man I was in love with have sex with another woman — that’s not for me.”

She said she had communicated with Haye’s girlfriend but struggled with guilt and loneliness.

“I didn’t feel nice about it. It really upsets me because I don’t mean to hurt other people… I should’ve known better.”

The pair ended their fling in December 2023.

Haye returns to the jungle — and says the trials are tougher than ever

Speaking ahead of the launch of I’m A Celebrity… South Africa, Haye said he wanted a tougher challenge this time around — and producers delivered.

“The first time I did it, it felt easy. I was vocal about wanting more of a challenge — and they turned up the heat. Some of the stuff they got us to do, I wouldn’t have thought was legal.”

This year’s series is pre‑recorded and has been teased as the toughest edition yet, following the 2023 spin‑off won by Myleene Klass.

I’m A Celebrity… South Africa begins Monday, April 6 at 9pm on ITV1 and will also stream on ITVX.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Known as Pindar, this fortified underground complex sits around 200 feet beneath the Ministry of Defence headquarters and has been on permanent standby since it became operational on December 7, 1992.

With global tensions rising and fears of nuclear escalation resurfacing, interest in the UK’s doomsday preparations has surged — especially as billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg build their own private survival bunkers. But unlike the tech elite, Pindar isn’t for the rich or famous. Its guest list is far more exclusive.

Who’s allowed inside Pindar?

Access to the bunker is strictly limited to:

- Government ministers  

- Senior military leaders  

- Key civilian officials  

- Operational and support staff essential to national survival

That’s it. No celebrities. No wealthy escapees. No members of the public.

The Prime Minister is the only person permitted to bring their family, ensuring their decision‑making isn’t compromised by fears for loved ones.

Colonel Philip Ingram, speaking to MailOnline, described Pindar as:

“Britain’s worst‑case scenario bunker… a last throw of the dice to keep the country running after a full‑scale nuclear strike.”

He added that the list of who gets inside may not even reflect the current government — the priority is competence, not politics.

What’s inside the UK’s secret nuclear bunker?

Pindar is essentially a self‑contained underground city, built to survive catastrophic nuclear attack and keep the government functioning.

Inside, it contains:

- Around 400 bunks for essential personnel  

- A broadcast facility for national emergency communications  

- A vast Situation Room with wall‑to‑wall screens  

- A hardened communications hub capable of running the UK’s entire network  

- Medical rooms  

- Storage packed with essentials like toothpaste, shower gel and hygiene supplies  

- Breathing apparatus and protective gear  

- A colossal industrial‑grade document shredder  

Photographer David Moore is one of the only civilians ever allowed inside. His images — heavily vetted and censored by the MoD — show stark bunk rooms, briefing areas, endless monitors and shelves of emergency equipment.

He recalled seeing a sign reading “To the Bomb Shelter Area” and even a copy of The Ipcress File on a bookshelf.

How the bunker would operate during a nuclear attack

Pindar was commissioned by Margaret Thatcher and took a decade to build. It cost the UK £126.3 million and remains permanently staffed.

If the worst happened:

- Staff would have minutes to reach the bunker before lockdown  

- Pindar can seal itself off completely from the outside world  

- It has its own air filtration system to protect against radioactive fallout  

- Personnel would work in three eight‑hour shifts  

- Secret tunnels reportedly link Pindar to 10 Downing Street and the Cabinet Office  

Despite its readiness, Pindar has never been used for a real emergency — only drills and simulations.

But its location beneath one of the most secure buildings in the country shows exactly how seriously the UK takes its worst‑case planning.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

A Welsh Internet Icon Evolves

For more than a decade, Dai Ling Ping has been one of Wales’ most recognisable online personalities — a chaotic, sharp‑tongued, and endlessly creative comedian whose surreal humour helped define an era of early YouTube culture. Known for his explosive gaming rage skits, bizarre characters, and unmistakable voice, Dai built a cult following that still quotes his lines today.

But now, the creator who once dominated the Welsh meme scene is surprising fans with something entirely different: a deeply emotional new song about dementia that is touching listeners across generations.

---

A New Creative Direction: The Dementia Song

In a move that has taken fans by surprise, Dai Ling Ping has released a new song centred on dementia — a raw, heartfelt piece that stands in stark contrast to his usual comedic persona.

Why the Song Is Hitting People So Hard

Listeners have described the track as:

- “Unexpectedly emotional”  

- “Painfully real”  

- “A side of Dai we’ve never seen before”  

The lyrics explore themes of:

- Memory loss  

- Watching a loved one fade  

- The emotional weight carried by families  

- The fear of being forgotten  

For many fans, the subject matter is deeply personal. Dementia affects thousands of families across Wales and the wider UK, and Dai’s willingness to tackle the topic with honesty has struck a chord.

A Natural Evolution

While the emotional tone may seem new, it aligns with Dai’s long‑standing interest in human behaviour and psychology. His ability to read emotion, express vulnerability, and connect with audiences has always been present — this song simply channels those strengths in a new direction.

---

Fan Reaction

Across social platforms, fans are praising the track for its sincerity. Many have shared their own stories of relatives affected by dementia, turning the comment sections into a space of collective empathy and remembrance.

For a creator known for humour, this shift has reminded audiences that even the funniest personalities carry deep emotional worlds.

You can listen to Dai Ling Ping - 5 Second World on SoundCloud here

For more news visit Pulse Media 

Prince William and Kate Middleton had just four months to organise their 2011 wedding, and despite their best efforts to keep every detail under wraps, one of the most closely guarded secrets of the day was leaked: the identity of Kate’s wedding‑dress designer.

The dress leak that caused ‘tears at the Palace’

Kate had gone to great lengths to keep her chosen designer hidden. But weeks before the big day, news broke that Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen had been selected to create the gown.

The Sunday Times reported at the time that the dress would blend Kate’s ideas with Burton’s high‑fashion expertise.

According to royal expert Katie Nicholl, speaking in Channel 5’s Secrets of the Royal Dressmakers, the leak left Kate devastated:

“Behind the scenes I think that caused tears at the Palace because Kate had done everything she could to keep the wedding dress a secret.”

Burton denied involvement until Kate stepped out of the car at Westminster Abbey, confirming the rumours in spectacular fashion.

A gown that still gives people ‘butterflies’

Despite the leak, Kate’s dress became one of the most celebrated royal gowns in history.

The ivory creation featured:

- A satin bodice  

- Hand‑cut Chantilly lace sleeves  

- Lace appliqué of roses, thistles, daffodils and shamrocks  

- A 2.7‑metre train  

- A skirt designed to resemble a flower opening  

- A veil embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework  

Designer Caroline Castigliano said the moment Kate emerged from the car remained unforgettable:

“Everybody loved Kate’s dress… she looked sensational. Even now it gives me butterflies.”

A design rooted in tradition

Burton incorporated Carrickmacross lace, a technique dating back to the 1800s, as Kate’s “something old”. She was present at the Abbey on the day, ensuring every detail was perfect before Kate walked down the aisle.

Kate is said to have first noticed Burton’s work at the 2005 wedding of Tom Parker Bowles, where Burton designed the gown worn by Sara Buys.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The incident unfolded before Leicester’s match against Gloucester at Villa Park, when TNT’s pundits attempted a light‑hearted kick‑at‑goal segment during the warm‑ups. Parling reacted angrily, shoving Doyle off the pitch and swearing at the presenters.

Owens says the moment highlighted just how tense and high‑pressure the minutes before kick‑off can be — something many fans underestimate.

‘Those moments before kick‑off are incredibly tense’

Owens recalled several examples from his refereeing career to illustrate how emotions run high before a match:

- A tunnel altercation between Ryan Wilson and Owen Farrell before the 2018 Calcutta Cup  

- A heated stand‑off between New Zealand and Australia coaches during a Bledisloe Cup warm‑up  

- England’s V‑formation creeping forward during the Haka in the 2019 World Cup semi‑final  

He said you can “cut the tension with a knife” in those moments, especially when coaches are under pressure.

Owens: TV crew shouldn’t have done it — but Parling overreacted

Owens believes TNT’s pundits made the first mistake by kicking a ball towards players warming up.

“They know they shouldn’t have done it,” he said. “They probably didn’t think about the consequences.”

But he also criticised Parling’s response:

“He was within his right to tell them not to do that. But the way he approached them aggressively and swearing was the disappointing bit.”

Owens said both sides should “hold their hands up”, adding that Parling should have been more aware of the live cameras nearby.

A reminder of the fine balance between TV access and match preparation

Owens said the incident shows how broadcasters and teams must work together to avoid disrupting warm‑ups — a time when emotions are already running high.

He also recalled a moment when a Welsh referee, David R Davies, accidentally ran into a cameraman at Murrayfield during the old Five Nations, breaking his nose.

“Thankfully, TV and rugby didn’t collide quite so dramatically last week,” Owens joked.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Officers stopped two males acting suspiciously on Thursday, leading to the discovery of the locked unit. Inside, they found a large quantity of nitrous oxide canisters — commonly known as laughing gas — along with a substantial amount of cash.

A North Wales Police spokesperson said:

“Officers from Rota 1 were out on routine patrol when their attention was drawn to two males acting in suspicious circumstances. Their swift action led to the arrest of two males, aged 17 and 20, on suspicion of drug supply offences and burglary.”

Further enquiries led officers to the secure container, where the haul was recovered.

Police described the find as a “significant haul of nitrous oxide off the streets of Bangor – far from a laughing matter.”

Both suspects remain under investigation.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The postal service has already faced criticism in recent months over slow or inconsistent delivery times. Now, following the Good Friday suspension of services across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, further disruption is expected.

No deliveries on Easter Monday

Royal Mail has confirmed there will be no deliveries or collections on Monday, April 6, due to the Easter Monday bank holiday.

A spokesperson said:

“We aim to deliver to all addresses we have mail for, six days a week. In a small number of local offices, this may temporarily not be possible due to issues such as high sick absence, resourcing or other local factors.”

They added that delivery rotations may be used to minimise delays and apologised for the inconvenience.

Among the Welsh areas affected today is Pontyclun (CF72), with Deeside (CH5) also listed.

Weekend services still running

Despite the Easter weekend, Royal Mail says:

- Saturday deliveries and collections are operating as normal  

- Customer Service Points remain open for parcel collection  

- Sunday parcel deliveries are expected to go ahead as usual  

Last week, Royal Mail owner Daniel Křetínský appeared before MPs to address concerns over delays, saying he was “deeply sorry” for late letters but rejected claims the situation was worsening.

Stamp prices rising this weekend

Customers are being urged to buy stamps before prices increase on April 7:

- First Class: £1.80  

- Second Class: 91p  

(First Class stamps cost 76p in 2020.)

Postcodes facing delays today

- Banbury (OX15–OX17)  

- Birmingham East (B8–B10)  

- Deeside (CH5)  

- Erskine (PA7, PA8)  

- Grimsby (DN31–DN37)  

- Hockley (SS5)  

- Lichfield (WS7, WS13, WS14)  

- New Ferry (CH32, CH62, CH63)  

- Petersfield (GU31–GU33)  

- Pontyclun (CF72)  

- Prenton (CH43)  

- Selsey (PO20)  

- Yate (BS37)

Royal Mail’s Easter schedule at a glance

Saturday, April 4

Normal weekend deliveries and collections. Customer Service Points open.

Sunday, April 5 (Easter Sunday)

Sunday parcel deliveries expected.

Monday, April 6 (Easter Monday)

No deliveries or collections.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Kyle Draper, 21, and Benjamin Evans, 20, targeted several properties over just two days in February, stealing vehicles including an Audi, a Volvo, a Hyundai and a Seat Arona.

Both men, who have no fixed address, admitted four burglaries, two thefts and dangerous driving. Draper was jailed for 42 months, while Evans received 45 months at Chester Crown Court.

Two‑day spree across Wales and Cheshire

Cheshire Police said officers launched an investigation after a series of burglaries between February 2 and 3.

Key details included:

- Two stolen cars from North Wales — a Hyundai and a Seat Arona — were spotted travelling in convoy towards Chester  

- CCTV later captured the vehicles near the scene of an Audi Q3 theft in Upton  

- The Hyundai was later abandoned in Crewe  

- A Volvo was then stolen in Crewe, with both the Audi and Volvo seen travelling together across Cheshire and Staffordshire  

High‑speed pursuit ends with two arrests

On February 3, officers from the Roads and Crime Unit located the stolen vehicles and attempted to stop them.

Both drivers fled:

- The Audi crashed in Staffordshire, where Draper was arrested  

- The Volvo continued into the West Midlands at high speed before crashing, leading to Evans’ arrest  

Police also seized their mobile phones, and forensic footwear analysis linked both men to one of the burglary scenes.

‘They didn’t count on us closing in’

PC Jack Ryder praised the teamwork that brought the pair down:

“These two reckless young men targeted so many addresses in such a short period of time, but didn’t count on us closing in on them and stopping them in their tracks.”

He added that the arrests should reassure the public that police remain “relentless” in pursuing offenders.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Kamber Murrja, 24, had been cultivating around 400 cannabis plants inside a rented property in Porth town centre when officers arrived on February 25.

Police were called by the letting agency after suspicious wiring was spotted outside the building and rent had gone unpaid.

400‑plant cannabis farm uncovered

When officers entered the property, they found a full grow operation, including:

- A room packed wall‑to‑wall with cannabis plants  

- Specialist lighting rigs  

- Ventilation equipment  

Body‑worn camera footage released by South Wales Police shows the scale of the setup.

Drone team spots suspect heading for the river

As officers searched the house, police drone operators spotted a man climbing out of a back window and scrambling down towards the riverbank.

Murrja briefly attempted to wade into the river to escape — but quickly thought better of it. He then walked back towards officers, who helped him up the bank before arresting him.

Jailed for cannabis cultivation

Murrja, of Heston, pleaded guilty to cultivating cannabis at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court. He was jailed for 30 weeks.

PC Dylan Baldwin said:

“By continuing to disrupt and seize these supply lines we can make the communities of South Wales a safer place. With the help of our drone operators, we were able to swiftly locate Murrja and bring him to justice.”

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Jordan Hamilton, 31, involved himself in the supply of cocaine and cannabis and also drew his partner Gemma Davies, 36, into the operation. Both appeared at Swansea Crown Court after police uncovered evidence of drug dealing at their home near Pontardawe.

Police raid uncovered scales, bags and incriminating messages

Officers executed a search warrant on April 15 last year, seizing both defendants’ phones along with weighing scales and a large number of snap‑seal bags.

Messages on Hamilton’s phone showed he was supplying cocaine and cannabis, while further messages between the pair revealed they were working together. In one exchange, Hamilton told Davies to “bring scales and bags” because a customer was waiting.

Davies’ phone also contained drug‑related messages, including some written by Hamilton.

Both defendants initially gave limited or no comment in interview.

Guilty pleas and personal circumstances

Hamilton and Davies, both of Clos Pentyle, Trebanos, admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis. Neither had previous convictions.

Davies’ basis of plea stated she acted under Hamilton’s direction — allowing money into her bank account and sending occasional messages at his request.

Hamilton’s barrister said he was a long‑term drug user involved in “low‑level supply to friends”. He expressed remorse and acknowledged he would now face an “enforced absence” from his young children.

Davies’ barrister said her client had been a drug user since her teens and was “deeply ashamed” to be in court.

Judge: ‘You knew the sentence that awaited you’

Judge Paul Thomas KC told Hamilton:

“When you involved yourself and your partner in the supply of Class A drugs, you would have known the likely sentence if caught. The gamble did not pay off and now you must pay the price.”

He added that addicts who choose to supply drugs “create the same misery in other people’s lives”.

Hamilton was jailed for 33 months, with credit for his guilty pleas.

Davies’ sentence delayed

Davies’ sentencing was adjourned for three weeks so the Probation Service can assess whether a mental health treatment requirement or curfew might be appropriate. She was remanded in custody in the meantime.

The judge stressed that exploring alternatives should not be taken as an indication of the sentence she will ultimately receive.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The popular early‑evening chat show will skip its Monday (April 6) episode, with the programme returning to its usual slot on Tuesday, April 7.

Friday’s edition saw JB Gill and Angellica Bell back on the sofa, joined by a packed line‑up of guests. Strictly Come Dancing pros Kai Widdrington and Jowita Przystał teased what fans can expect from the upcoming Strictly Pro Tour, while Patsy Kensit and Jayne Middlemiss discussed their emotional journey on BBC Two’s Pilgrimage.

As the show wrapped up, Angellica confirmed the short break, telling viewers:

“We will be back on Tuesday and we’ve got a whole host of fabulous guests joining us throughout the week.”

The BBC didn’t give an official reason for Monday’s absence, though it’s understood the team is taking a brief Easter break.

Ant McPartlin apologises after ‘spoiler’ moment

The shake‑up comes after I’m A Celebrity host Ant McPartlin appeared on Thursday’s episode and jokingly apologised for almost revealing too much about the upcoming South Africa all‑stars series.

While discussing the new season with Dec, Ant teased:

“This series gives you everything… drama, arguments… am I saying too much? I’m sorry, ITV.”

The all‑stars edition, filmed in South Africa last year, launches on Monday, April 6, promising high‑stakes trials, returning campmates and plenty of chaos.

The One Show airs weekdays at 7pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The Northern Ireland international missed the dramatic 3–3 draw with Sheffield United after suffering a calf injury during the recent international break, where he featured against both Italy and Wales.

Speaking to the BBC, Matos said:

“Ethan has a calf strain so he’s really unlikely to play again this season. It will be around six to eight weeks. Nothing I can control – it happened during the international period.”

Swans fight back for thrilling point

Despite Galbraith’s absence, Swansea produced a spirited comeback at Bramall Lane.

After Gustavo Hamer’s early opener, Zan Vipotnik levelled from the spot, but goals from Harrison Burrows and Tom Cannon put Sheffield United 3–1 up.

Late strikes from Adam Idah and Eom Jisung rescued a point in a breathless finale.

Substitutes praised for impact

Matos highlighted the influence of his bench, with two substitutes scoring and others helping shift the momentum.

He said:

- Jay Fulton brought “control and experience” and made “two unbelievable tackles”  

- Adam Idah added “physicality and energy in the final third”  

- Eom Jisung, who only arrived back from international duty on Thursday, delivered a “proper effort” in his 20‑minute cameo  

Matos added that all five substitutes made a “big impact” and showed the depth and commitment within the squad.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

John Clark, 57, who previously stood in Aberconwy in 2024, is second on Reform’s Bangor Conwy Môn regional list — a position considered likely to secure a Senedd seat.

According to the BBC, Clark suggested in December 2023 that NATO expansion contributed to the conflict, writing that the war “would not have happened” without NATO “pushing into Eastern Europe.” In another post, he claimed NATO wanted to “bleed Russia dry.”

His comments drew further scrutiny after he said former prime minister Rishi Sunak “hates the British people more than Putin” and thanked Vladimir Putin following the Russian leader’s interview with US commentator Tucker Carlson. Clark also appeared to cast doubt on Putin’s responsibility for the death of opposition figure Alexei Navalny, though he later clarified he believed Putin was responsible and said his remark was intended as a quip about David Cameron.

Reform UK Wales distanced itself from the posts, stating that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was “unprovoked and illegal” and that Putin’s regime “deserves calling out in the strongest terms.”

Opposition parties have called for Clark to be removed as a candidate. Labour MS Mick Antoniw said he “should be removed,” while Conservative candidate Janet Finch‑Saunders described the comments as “extremely troubling.” Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds said attempts to shift blame from Russia were “wrong and dangerous.”

Clark remains on the ballot despite a series of resignations from Reform UK candidates in Wales in recent days. Several former candidates have criticised the party’s internal decisions, with some claiming Reform is prioritising ex‑Conservative politicians over local voices.

Speaking on The Claudia Winkleman Show on Friday, Rita — who served as executive producer on both the 2008 original and its 2018 sequel — teased that the beloved musical series could return.

Asked about Mamma Mia 3, she said:

“There will always be discussions but there is nothing definitively to announce,” before cheekily winking at the camera.

When pressed on whether she would consider directing, she added:

“I think I would direct if it was the right material.”

Meryl Streep: ‘Damn, yes!’

The tease follows Meryl Streep’s enthusiastic response on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, where she declared she would “Damn, yes!” return for a third film.

Amanda Seyfried: ‘Pretty sure it’s a done deal’

Back in late 2025, Amanda Seyfried also fuelled speculation, telling Entertainment Tonight:

“Maybe I should be coy… but I’m pretty sure Mamma Mia! 3 is a done deal. I’d love to see Sophie with her kids.”

Fans still obsessed with the films

Both Mamma Mia! films remain huge fan favourites on Netflix, with viewers calling the original:

- “The most rewatchable movie of all time”  

- “Genuinely one of the greatest films ever made”  

- “Talented. Brilliant. Incredible. Amazing…”  

Even sceptics of the sequel admitted they were won over, with one IMDb reviewer saying:

“The film is really wonderful, even better than the first in a weird way.”

The Claudia Winkleman Show

The show returns Friday nights on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 10.30pm.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

South Wales Police had warned earlier in the day that military personnel would be stationed at St Athan Airport in the Vale of Glamorgan for a pre‑planned operation designed to test responses to major incidents. The exercise involved HM Forces and police working together to rehearse contingency plans.

The training comes as the UK’s terror threat level remains substantial, meaning an attack is considered likely.

Residents report explosions and aircraft overhead

Despite the advance notice, many locals said they were shocked by the scale of the activity.

People living in Rhoose reported a loud explosion shortly before midnight that “shook” their homes, while others in Pencoedtre, on the outskirts of Barry, also heard bangs echoing through the night.

Some residents said their children were excited after spotting what they believed were Apache helicopters flying overhead.

Officials: ‘No cause for concern’

Police stressed that the exercise was routine and not linked to any specific threat:

“It is not in response to any recent incident, intelligence, or threat. The threat from terrorism remains at substantial, which means an attack is likely.”

St Athan, once a major RAF base, was transferred to civilian control in 2019 and is now owned by the Welsh Government, though it continues to be used for military training.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The unusual six‑hour running challenge will take place at the Tesco Extra in Bridgend, where 140 runners have signed up to complete anything from a 5km to a full marathon (or even an ultra) by repeatedly lapping the store and its car park.

A marathon… inside a supermarket

The quirky course, created by Phoenix Running, will:

- Start in the store foyer  

- Loop outside around the car park  

- Re‑enter the store  

- Require runners to walk on the travelator for safety  

- Complete a lap of the first floor  

- Head back down and start again  

Organisers say the final lap distance will be around 0.4–0.5 miles, meaning runners could end up doing dozens of loops within the six‑hour limit.

Participants can run as many or as few laps as they like — and everyone gets a finisher’s medal.

Huge interest from runners

Tickets cost £47.95–£49.95 and sold out quickly. Social media reaction was a mix of excitement and disbelief:

- “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard, I’m definitely interested.”  

- “The two loves of my life. Running and supermarkets.”  

- “One of the daftest runs I’ve ever seen — I’m checking my diary.”  

Raising money for Help for Heroes

Tesco confirmed the event will take place on June 28, starting at 4.30pm, outside normal opening hours. A full risk assessment has been completed, with staggered starts and safety rules in place — including mandatory walking on the travelator.

A Tesco spokesperson said:

“It’s not every day runners get to follow a course that goes through a supermarket, so we’re not surprised it’s proved incredibly popular.”

The event will raise funds for Help for Heroes, Tesco’s armed forces network partner charity.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The teenager had been moved out of south Wales to escape child sexual exploitation, but was instead placed in a property run by MAP Adventures, a provider that was not registered to operate as a care home. Caerphilly council had arranged the placement in September 2024.

Abuse by staff with violent criminal histories

The home was staffed overnight by Stephen Hurst, 40, and Liam Ramsay, 46, both former soldiers. Despite holding seven previous convictions between them, including violent offences, they were hired to supervise vulnerable children.

During an overnight shift, the pair took the girl into Durham city centre, bought her alcohol using their own bank cards, and later purchased £120 worth of Class A drugs. Back at the property, they supplied her with cocaine and subjected her to hours of physical and sexual abuse.

The following day, traumatised and bleeding, she fled the home and was found by police at a nearby train station.

A jury later convicted both men of sexual activity with a child, intentional strangulation, and supplying cocaine. Ramsay received 11 years in prison, while Hurst was jailed for nine years. Both were placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Placement breached legal limits

MAP Adventures was only registered to provide outdoor activities, not residential care. Caerphilly council said the girl was on a “holiday break”, but the law limits such stays to 28 days — and she was attacked on day 29.

The Bureau of Investigative Journalism reported that the council had requested an extension beyond the legal limit. The authority did not respond when asked to explain the decision.

Safeguarding concerns raised after the attack

Minutes from a Durham safeguarding meeting revealed:

- The girl was the only child at the property  

- No female staff were present overnight  

- A detective questioned how the council could monitor safety at an unregistered home so far away  

- Ramsay had a previous substantiated neglect allegation from 2023 at another unregistered home  

MAP Adventures has since closed. Its founder, former army sergeant Paul McGrory, said background checks only revealed one conviction and insisted he was “sickened to the core” by what happened.

Growing crisis in unregistered placements

Due to a shortage of regulated children’s homes, councils across the UK are increasingly placing vulnerable young people in illegal or unregistered settings.

Nearly 700 children were living in unregistered accommodation in 2025 — up from 147 in 2020 — and the true figure is likely higher, as councils are not required to notify Ofsted.

Police praise victim’s bravery

Detective Constable Beth Otty said the girl had shown “remarkable courage” in giving evidence:

“Ramsay and Hurst should have been keeping her safe. Instead, they groomed and abused her. She should have been able to trust them.”

The girl continues to suffer flashbacks and reportedly attempted an overdose after the trial.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Moynul Janu, 35, approached a four‑year‑old girl and a 16‑month‑old girl as they played in the water fountains at Victoria Park, Cardiff, in July last year. The incident happened in front of their mothers, who intervened when they saw him moving toward the children.

Prosecutor Bethan Evans told Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court that Janu told the women he was “grabbing the kids” before taking hold of both children by their arms. One mother blocked his path while both shouted at him to stop.

The four‑year‑old, described as physically vulnerable due to health issues, now wakes up screaming:  

“He is coming. He is coming to get me.”

Parents raised the alarm

After the confrontation, Janu tapped the older child on the head and walked away while speaking into his smartwatch. Park attendants were alerted and stopped him. He told them he was homeless in the UK and looking for work.

Police detained him but later dropped him off in Cardiff city centre.

Targeted a nursery the next day

Just 24 hours later, Janu entered a nursery in Pencoed, where 17 children were present. Staff saw him loitering in the foyer before he walked “quickly and directly” toward a nursery nurse, coming within 30cm of her.

As the automatic door locked behind her, Janu tried to guess the entry code and push the buttons to gain access. Police were called and found him still outside 15 minutes later.

Parents traumatised

The mother of the four‑year‑old said her daughter now suffers nightmares and fears Janu will return.  

The mother of the 16‑month‑old said she had gone to the park to help manage her own anxiety:

“A strange man tried to take my child in front of me.”

She said she is now too frightened to stay home alone with her children.

Defence said he was mentally unwell

Defending, Andrew Kendall said Janu was suffering from bipolar affective disorder at the time and was “clearly very unwell”.

Janu admitted three counts of attempted child abduction.

Judge Richard Kember issued a hospital order under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, meaning Janu will be detained in a secure medical facility rather than prison.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Cerys Nomi, who worked at The Rookery care home in Newcastle Emlyn, Carmarthenshire, was accused of allowing a male resident — referred to as User A — to grind against her and place his head in her breast area while she was supposed to be supervising him.

A Social Care Wales fitness‑to‑practise panel heard that Nomi was laughing, giggling and making a “shimmying movement” with her chest during the incident, which took place while a colleague stepped out for a cigarette break.

Witness described ‘grinding movement’

Support worker Amanda Hands, who was in the room at the time, told the panel that Nomi got down on the floor with the resident, who then placed his body against her. She said Nomi pushed out her chest and continued to engage with him as he became increasingly excited.

Ms Hands said their legs became intertwined and the pair began moving back and forth in what she described as a grinding motion. She told the panel the incident lasted four to five minutes and that Nomi made no attempt to use de‑escalation techniques, despite staff being trained on how to safely reposition the resident.

Incident reported after safeguarding training

The incident was reported to management around a week later following safeguarding training. Nomi was dismissed after an internal investigation.

She did not attend the hearing and disputed the accounts given by colleagues, telling an interviewing officer she had “problems with personal boundaries” but insisting her behaviour was not sexual.

Panel rules behaviour was serious misconduct

Panel chair Alison Walker said Nomi’s actions posed a risk to a vulnerable resident and breached fundamental professional standards:

“She did not follow his care plan and did not follow training on how to use a safe breakaway technique. The panel could not be satisfied she would not act in this way again.”

The panel found allegations relating to inappropriate physical contact proven, but did not find that her behaviour was sexual in intent.

Nomi has been immediately removed from the Social Care Wales register and will not be able to reapply for five years.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The item was found on Lyme Regis beach in Dorset on Tuesday afternoon, with HM Coastguard confirming it was alerted at around 1pm. Dorset Police and a specialist bomb disposal team were also called to the scene.

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard said:

“A report of suspected ordnance at Lyme Regis beach was made at about 1.05pm. Coastguard Rescue Teams from Lyme Regis and West Bay are attending, as well as Dorset Police. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team has been sent.”

Beach closed as precaution

Lyme Regis Town Council confirmed that part of the beach had been cordoned off:

“A section of the beach is currently closed following guidance from HM Coastguard. There is no immediate cause for concern, however we kindly ask members of the public to avoid the area while this is being managed.”

Police said they were assisting with the cordon but that the coastguard was leading the incident.

Not the first scare in the area

Lyme Regis is a hugely popular seaside destination, attracting more than 20,000 visitors during peak season. It has seen similar alerts before.

In March last year, a suspected bomb discovered on nearby Charmouth beach triggered a major emergency response — only for experts to later confirm it was a “very old straight‑sided saucepan”.

Coastguard teams say ordnance washing up on the coastline is not uncommon and urged the public to report anything suspicious.

“If there is any doubt, please call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Edwards, once one of the BBC’s highest‑paid and most recognisable newsreaders, fronted News at Ten for decades before pleading guilty in July 2024 to making indecent images of children. He received a six‑month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

His downfall was recently dramatised in a Channel 5 series starring Doc Martin actor Martin Clunes — a portrayal Edwards has strongly criticised.

‘I will challenge the misleading or fabricated claims’

In a statement released on Thursday, Edwards said:

“Much has been written and reported in the past week following Channel 5’s one‑sided account.  

Other opportunities will arise later this year for me to state my case and to challenge the misleading or fabricated claims made in recent coverage.”

He added that “serious questions” remained unanswered and said he would not comment further until he produces his own account — believed to be a documentary or podcast.

Criticism of Channel 5 drama

Edwards previously accused the production company behind the Channel 5 drama, Wonderhood Studios, of failing to verify the “truth” of the narrative portrayed in the series. The programme revisited allegations first reported by The Sun in July 2023, claiming a “top BBC star” paid a teenager more than £35,000 for sexual images.

Channel 5 defended the drama, saying:

“Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards is based on extensive interviews with the victim, his family, the journalists who revealed his story, text exchanges between the victim and Edwards, and court reporting.  

All allegations made in the film were put to Huw Edwards via his solicitors six weeks before transmission.”

‘Reckless, shameful and damaging’

Edwards has previously expressed “deep regret and remorse” for his offences, admitting his behaviour was “reckless, shameful and damaging”.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Police confirmed on Thursday (April 2) that a girl and three boys were killed inside the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program School in Kampala’s Makindye Division. A 34‑year‑old man has been arrested, though detectives say the motive remains unclear.

According to Uganda’s Daily Monitor, the suspect allegedly tricked staff by posing as a parent, entering through an office before stepping outside, locking a gate and beginning the attack.

Parents in tears as police fire warning shots

Footage broadcast by NTV Uganda showed distressed parents rushing to the school, with some breaking down in tears. Officers were seen firing shots into the air to disperse an angry crowd reportedly attempting to lynch the suspect.

The Uganda Police Force said in a statement:

“We confirm a tragic incident at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program school… where a male suspect brutally stabbed and killed four juveniles. The suspect has been apprehended, and the motive behind the killings is still under investigation.”

Detectives remain at the scene, with further updates expected as the investigation continues.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

A Senedd inquiry has warned that GP services across Wales are in decline, with surgeries underfunded, understaffed and struggling to cope with daily demand. Doctors told the committee they feel “beleaguered”, while patients described the system as increasingly unworkable.

The Senedd’s health and social care committee found that chronic underfunding has left practices unable to provide the level of care they want to deliver. The most widespread frustration — shared by both patients and GPs — is the now‑infamous “8am scramble” for appointments.

‘The most common cause of frustration’

The report states:

“The most common cause of frustration for patients is the struggle to get a GP appointment, often referred to as the ‘8am scramble’. Time and again we hear of people struggling to get through, only to find all appointments have gone.”

Despite Welsh Government assurances that this should not be happening, the committee said it remains widespread and must be urgently addressed.

GPs say demand is impossible to meet without funding

Cardiff GP Dr Rebecca Towner told the inquiry that surgeries simply cannot meet demand without more investment:

“How are we supposed to offer capacity for all of our patients when daily demand is so unpredictable and we are not funded to provide care for all of our patients?”

A patient from Brecon described being 49th in the queue after calling at 8am.

Primary care underfunded despite handling 90% of NHS contacts

The inquiry found that although primary care handles around 90% of all NHS interactions, it receives a disproportionately small share of funding. General medical services accounted for 5.7% of NHS Wales spending in 2024‑25, down from 7.1% in 2018‑19.

The committee warned that the imbalance between hospital funding and primary care is now “critically impacting” the sustainability of general practice.

A service in decline

Evidence submitted painted a bleak picture:

- Chronic underinvestment  

- Rising numbers of practice closures  

- Low morale among staff  

- Poor public perception  

- A workforce stretched beyond capacity  

Wales now has around 374 GP practices, down from 516 in 2002. Doctors say the situation is even worse than official figures suggest.

One GP told the inquiry their practice has 11,526 registered patients but is only funded to care for 8,281.

Recruitment crisis — and GPs leaving Wales

The inquiry heard that deprived areas face the biggest shortages, with more patients per GP. Meanwhile, some urban areas have the opposite problem — too many GPs and not enough funded jobs.

Dr Rowena Christmas, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners Cymru Wales, said many GPs are leaving for better pay and work‑life balance abroad:

“They want to stay and work in Wales. They are just struggling to find the work.”

Minister rejects simple online booking fix

Outgoing health minister Jeremy Miles acknowledged issues with phone systems but said online booking alone would not solve the problem:

“Going to see a GP is not the same as ordering a pizza… there needs to be an element of clinical triage.”

The committee, however, said it remains unclear how access standards will be strengthened.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

The King and Queen arrived at St Asaph Cathedral on Thursday, April 2, where Charles presented traditional Maundy gifts to 77 men and 77 women — one for each year of his age — recognising outstanding Christian service and community contribution.

What the recipients received

Each person was given two leather purses:

- A white purse containing specially minted silver Maundy coins totalling 77 pennies  

- A red purse containing:  

  - A £5 coin marking 100 years since Queen Elizabeth II’s birth  

  - A 50p coin celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust  

These coins are rarely produced and highly collectible. The Royal Mint currently lists Maundy sets priced between £120 and £785, depending on age and condition — meaning this year’s recipients have been handed gifts potentially worth several hundred pounds.

‘It was just so, so special’

Jean Carthy, 81, from Towyn, said she initially thought the nomination letter was a scam:

“Even this morning I was wondering why I was there. It was just so, so special… He gave me the purses and said ‘thank you for the work you do’.”

Colin Pengelly, 77, from Castle Caereinion, described the moment as “humbling”:

“The King put the purses in my hand and said ‘thank you for all you have done over the years’. I said to him ‘thank you too, keep doing it’.”

Crowds, protesters and a cleaned‑up message

Supporters lined the streets with Union and Welsh flags to greet the royal couple. Further up the road, protesters from Republic held banners calling for transparency around royal conduct.

Hours before the visit, graffiti reading “Not our King” was scrubbed from a wall in the cathedral grounds.

A historic service

The Royal Maundy tradition dates back to 1210, commemorating the Last Supper and the distribution of alms. This year’s bilingual service featured specially composed music, including A Sacred Benediction sung by soprano Rebecca Evans.

As they left the cathedral, Charles and Camilla greeted schoolchildren and well‑wishers. The Queen wore a navy Dior ensemble with a sapphire and diamond brooch once owned by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Jack Louis, who runs his own men’s hair styling salon in Great Dunmow, Essex, left leaflets designed to look like official penalty charge notices on windscreens across the town.

Instead of a fine, the “tickets” contained a voucher for £5 off a haircut — a stunt that split opinion among locals. Jack, 35, said he was visited by PCSOs after complaints, but insisted rising costs meant businesses had to “shout the loudest” to be noticed.

Great Dunmow Town Council criticised the tactic, saying anything that mimics an enforcement notice is “inappropriate”.

Jack, who has run his community barbershop for nine years, said:  

“You have to reinvent the wheel and get creative. Some people said it caused them stress — that wasn’t the intention. But it’s got people talking, which was the aim.”

He said the vouchers could help people struggling with rising costs, while also boosting footfall for the shop.

The stunt cost him £140 — £70 for the fake PCNs and £70 for printing vouchers worth £5,000 in total. Reactions online ranged from amusement to anger.

One local wrote:  

“Open it, laugh, chuck it in the bin and go on about your day.”

Another said their partner was “raging”, while a third branded the idea “disgraceful”.

Jack said the cost‑of‑living crisis, rising national insurance and soaring prices for supplies — including hairspray now costing him £80 a month — had made business tougher.

With seven barbers on the high street, he said standing out was essential.  

“Typical leaflets end up in the bin. This grabbed attention. Around 50 people have already come in with their voucher.”

Police spoke to him about the stunt but confirmed it wasn’t illegal.

A spokesperson for Great Dunmow Town Council said some residents had been “understandably distressed”, adding:  

“Placing anything on a vehicle that mimics an enforcement notice risks causing unnecessary alarm.”

For more news visit Pulse Media.

Speaking on the Vogue & Amber podcast, which she co‑hosts with her sister Amber Wilson, the presenter said she was struggling with nerves as she prepares to travel with Theodore, Gigi and Otto.

‘Guys, I am scared… I’m absolutely sg myself’

Vogue told listeners:

“Guys, I am scared. I know it’s first‑world problems — we’re going on holidays tomorrow — but I have to get up at half three in the morning and I’m pushing the kids out. I’m absolutely sg myself.”

She explained that the travel schedule itself is what’s worrying her:

“We’re flying to Paris, then Paris to St Martin, then St Martin to St Barts. It’s a lot of flights. I’m never usually like that with them, but it’s such a full‑on day and I don’t feel very well at the moment.”

Amber tried to lighten the mood, joking that Paris airport is where Home Alone 2’s Kate McCallister famously realised she’d left Kevin behind.

Life with Spencer and the kids

Vogue shares her three children with husband Spencer Matthews, whom she met on Channel 4’s The Jump. The couple married in 2018 and split their time between London and Ireland.

Over the years, Vogue has built a successful career across TV, radio and podcasting. She first appeared on Irish reality series Fade Street, later competing on Dancing with the Stars Australia and winning Bear Grylls: Mission Survive in 2015.

More recently, she’s become known for her candid podcasting style, regularly sharing honest insights into parenting, work and family life.

Candid stories and past awkward encounters

Her latest admission follows another recent revelation in which she recalled being “completely ignored” by a “rude” celebrity early in her modelling career. Amber said she’d had a similar experience with the same unnamed person while handing out flyers in Dublin.

The King and Queen are due to attend the service, where Charles will present gifts to 77 men and 77 women from Wales and other dioceses across the UK in recognition of outstanding Christian service and community support.

Workers in hi‑vis jackets were seen attempting to remove the paint on Thursday morning ahead of the Royal arrival.

The first recorded Royal Maundy service took place in 1210 under King John and commemorates the Last Supper, with the distribution of alms becoming a long‑standing tradition.

Charles will give recipients two purses – a white purse containing specially minted silver Maundy coins totalling 77 pennies, matching the King’s age, and a red purse containing a £5 coin marking 100 years since the late Queen’s birth and a 50p coin celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust charity.

The King is traditionally assisted in distributing Maundy Money by the Lord High Almoner, currently the Bishop of Norwich, the Right Rev Graham Usher.

This year’s service is the first held in Wales since 1982 and will feature specially commissioned music by Welsh composers and musicians.

For more visit Pulse Media News.

Michael Dennis Evans, 65, has repeatedly been told to stop contacting his ex‑partner — but on March 5 he turned up at her home in Swansea, knocking on the door and asking to see her, despite a court order banning all contact.

Evans has breached restraining orders more than 20 times over the years and has a long record of harassment offences.

‘Police have got nothing on me’

Swansea Crown Court heard that Evans arrived at the woman’s home while she and her housemate were inside. When the housemate told him he wasn’t allowed to see her and threatened to call police, Evans replied:

“Police have got nothing on me.”

The woman agreed to go for a walk with him, but when she didn’t return after 90 minutes, her housemate called police.

Officers went to Evans’ home, where he became verbally abusive, shouting and swearing at them. He later accused officers of being “paedophiles” and claimed they were “working for Jeffrey Epstein”.

Victim went with him ‘in the rush of the moment’

Police later found the woman had returned home. She told officers she had briefly gone to Evans’ house in a taxi before leaving again — and made clear she did not want to see him.

Evans was arrested and largely answered “no comment” in interview, though he admitted he sometimes saw his ex at Swansea Market.

A long history of harassment

Evans has 36 previous convictions for 67 offences, including:

- 23 breaches of restraining orders  

- Multiple harassment offences  

- Several prison sentences for similar behaviour  

His past offending includes:

- Repeatedly going to an ex‑partner’s home in Gorseinon, shouting through the letterbox and forcing her to move out (jailed for 30 months in 2021)  

- Bombarding the same victim with abusive and threatening messages after his release, telling her he would kill her (jailed for 18 months in 2023)  

In June last year he was convicted of stalking involving fear of violence and given a suspended sentence along with a restraining order.

Judge: Evans ‘portrays himself as the victim’

Judge Paul Thomas KC said Evans had shown a “flagrant” disregard for the restraining order and noted his tendency to present himself as the victim.

Evans’ barrister said his client had been doing well on his suspended sentence until he decided to start drinking again after an alcohol‑abstinence requirement ended.

Seven months in prison

Evans was sentenced to:

- 1 month for the latest breach  

- 6 months activated from his previous suspended sentence  

He will serve 40% of the sentence in custody, before being released on licence.

The Hawk and Buckle in Llannefydd has applied to Conwy Council for a variation to its licence, with director Paul Harris seeking permission to serve alcohol until midnight and remain open until 1am. He has also requested extended hours until 2am on New Year’s Eve.

The application will be considered by the council’s licensing sub‑committee.

Residents complain of late‑night noise and vomiting

One resident wrote to the council claiming customers were leaving the pub noisily, vomiting in the road, and even knocking on doors in the early hours.

Another, Marian B Hughes, said she had heard reports of people being sick on nearby doorsteps:

“It’s a terrible situation — stepping out of the house and into vomit early in the morning. I’m concerned that extending the hours will lead to more anti‑social behaviour.”

She also raised concerns about the pub’s location next to a cemetery and a Grade I‑listed parish church.

Landlord: ‘It was a one‑off incident’

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, landlord Paul Harris strongly denied that such behaviour was common.

“It was a one‑off incident, which we do not condone.  

We went round ourselves, cleaned it up, and apologised to the residents. The person responsible has been spoken to.”

He said the pub has received overwhelming support from villagers and that only one local resident had objected.

Harris added that pubs are “closing left, right and centre” and that the extended hours would help the business remain viable and support local events.

Strong support from the community

Several residents submitted letters backing the pub:

- Nansi Davies described it as “an important part of the local community”  

- Amy Moss called it “the heart of the community” and said businesses like it were essential for small villages  

Decision due this week

The licensing sub‑committee has the power to approve the application, amend the conditions, or refuse it entirely.

Councillors will meet on Thursday, April 2, at Conwy County Council’s Coed Pella offices in Colwyn Bay.

The British Dental Association (BDA) says the reforms, described by the Welsh Government as the biggest shake‑up in 20 years, risk pushing more practices into private work and worsening the existing access crisis.

What’s changing?

The new system alters how often patients are seen and how they are charged.

1. Check‑ups less frequent

Healthy patients will no longer be encouraged to attend every six months. Instead, routine NHS check‑ups will now take place every 18 to 24 months, freeing up dentist time for patients with higher clinical needs.

2. New charging structure

The old Band 1, 2 and 3 system has been scrapped. Treatments will now fall under care packages, with clinical care and lab fees charged separately.

The BDA says this could mean higher costs for some patients, highlighting:

- A simple check‑up rising 22% to £24.50  

- A periodontal package increasing from £60 to £93.50

While the union acknowledged that Welsh patients may still pay less than those in England “in some cases”, it warned the increases come at a difficult time amid the cost‑of‑living crisis.

---

Dentists warn reforms are ‘untested’

The BDA says the new system has not been properly trialled and that communication with practices has been poor. Some dentists have already handed back their NHS contracts due to uncertainty about the future.

Some health boards have reportedly seen 10% or more of their NHS contract allocations returned, putting further pressure on remaining services.

A long‑promised patient information leaflet explaining the new system has also not yet been published.

BDA: ‘The service is on the brink’

Russell Gidney, chair of the BDA’s Welsh General Dental Practice Committee, said:

“Many patients across Wales will have to get used to more costly, less frequent dental care.  

The risk now is that untested reforms will push more practices out of the NHS, taking the access crisis from bad to worse.”

He warned that whoever forms the next Welsh Government will inherit a service “on the very brink” and will need a rescue package to secure its future.

---

Welsh Government defends the changes

A spokesperson said the reforms are designed to prioritise patients based on individual risk and need, ensuring capacity for new patients while maintaining continuity for existing ones.

They insisted the changes are not experimental:

“It is not a leap into the unknown, but a consolidation of what has already been shown to work.  

We are proud to have developed the new contract arrangements in partnership with the BDA, the NHS and the people of Wales.”

Producers are said to have had Josie on their wish list for some time and came close to signing her three years ago. Now, following a major overhaul of the show — including the departure of several professional dancers and long‑time hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman — bosses are reportedly more determined than ever to bring her on board.

A source told The Sun that Josie’s warm, down‑to‑earth personality is exactly what the refreshed series needs:

“Josie has been on the BBC’s radar for a while and they’ve not given up their pursuit. Talks are progressing well. Bosses are convinced her charm will be the boost this year’s new‑look show needs.”

Strictly vs I’m A Celeb bidding war

Josie was previously in discussions to join Strictly in 2023 but ended up heading into the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! jungle instead, finishing in fourth place. Producers are reportedly hopeful that this year they’ll finally secure her.

From Big Brother winner to daytime TV favourite

Josie first shot to fame after winning Big Brother in 2010. She later joined This Morning as a competition announcer before becoming one of the programme’s most popular presenters.

She has also been open about her personal life, including her weight‑loss journey, intermittent fasting, and her diagnosis of lipoedema, a condition that causes fat to build up in the legs.

Despite her rising profile, Josie has said she has no plans to take on a permanent full‑time presenting role on This Morning:

“I only get to be a mum once and you never get that time back. I love the West Country — that’s where I feel myself and where I can grow.”

A relatable mum with a huge following

Josie regularly shares the highs and lows of parenthood with her hundreds of thousands of followers. Asked whether she sees herself as a role model, she laughed:

“Oh no — please, no. Mums don’t look up to me. I’m juggling, I’m struggling, I’m stressed.”

With Strictly gearing up for a major reboot, producers reportedly believe Josie’s humour, warmth and relatability could make her one of the standout stars of the 2026 series.

Drivers aged 17 to 69 must renew their photocard licence every 10 years, while those aged 70 and over must renew every three years.

Failing to renew on time means you could be breaking the law, and anyone caught driving with an expired licence faces a fine of up to £1,000.

Photocard licences must be kept up to date so that drivers can be clearly identified.

---

Who can renew a licence?

To renew, you must:

- Be a resident of Great Britain  

- Not be disqualified from driving

---

How to Renew Your Driving Licence

Online renewal

- Cost: £14  

- You’ll need valid photo ID (passport or driving licence)  

- The new licence usually arrives within one week

Renewing by post

You’ll need a D1 form pack from a Post Office that handles DVLA services.

Include:

- A recent passport-style photo (not signed)  

- Your current photocard licence (if you have it)  

- A £17 cheque or postal order payable to DVLA  

  - No fee if you have a medical short‑period licence or are 70+  

- Identity documents if you’ve changed your name  

Send to:  

DVLA  

Swansea  

SA99 1DH

At a Post Office

Take:

- Your reminder letter (or your photocard licence if you don’t have the letter)  

- The £21.50 fee

Licences renewed via post or Post Office usually arrive within three weeks, though it may take longer if medical or personal details need checking.

---

Can you still drive while waiting?

Yes — you can continue driving as long as you meet the DVLA’s eligibility rules and your application is being processed.

Patrick Banks, 42, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court where a judge told him he had “grotesquely abused” his position as a serving officer in West Yorkshire Police’s specialist safeguarding unit.

The victim, who had reported a sexual assault to police in April 2025, said she was especially vulnerable at the time — homeless, caring for two children and relying on officers for help.

‘The man who was supposed to protect me took advantage’

Banks had been assigned to investigate her case but instead began contacting her from his personal phone, visiting her off‑duty in his own car and pretending he was working.

He sent her sexually explicit messages — which he had translated himself using Google Translate — including:

- “I like you a lot”  

- “I want to take off your underwear with my teeth”  

- “Do you miss sex”

He also touched her inappropriately and smelled her hair during a meeting, the court heard.

The woman told the court:

“What revolts me today is that the man who was supposed to protect me took advantage of this vulnerability.  

This trauma prevents me seeing the beauty and goodness in the world.”

Second woman targeted

Prosecutors revealed Banks also made inappropriate contact with a second woman who had reported a sexual assault. Police recovered 53 pages of messages, including personal questions about her past and a request for a “peck on the cheek”.

Officers later found the woman’s mobile phone inside Banks’ home — despite him telling her it had been sent for forensic examination.

Only one official record existed of Banks visiting either woman on legitimate police business.

Judge: ‘You were unhampered by scruples’

Sentencing him, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC said:

“You grotesquely abused your position as a police officer whilst working in the safeguarding unit.  

It becomes exceptionally serious when the misconduct embraces a sexual crime.  

You were unhampered by scruples of any kind.”

Banks admitted misconduct in public office and sexual assault. He joined Essex Police in 2019 before transferring to West Yorkshire Police in 2022. He resigned in September 2025.

Galbraith has become one of Swansea’s most reliable options at full‑back since December, but O’Neill says the 24‑year‑old’s long‑term future lies in the middle of the pitch.

O’Neill said Galbraith’s versatility comes from his intelligence on the ball:

“Versatility comes with two things — athleticism or being a really intelligent footballer. Ethan comes into the latter category.  

His ability to retain the ball and his technical level is extremely high. For me, his best position is in midfield for our team.”

Swansea still see him as a midfielder

When Galbraith joined Swansea from Leyton Orient last summer, the internal expectation was that he would be used primarily as a midfielder who could cover at full‑back when needed. That view still largely stands, even though he has excelled in defence.

O’Neill added:

“We’ve played him deeper, we’ve played him higher as a 10. His versatility shows his football intelligence and what a top‑class player he can become.”

Why O’Neill believes Swansea was the right move

The Northern Ireland boss also praised Galbraith’s decision to join Swansea, saying he had other options but made the right call.

“I spoke to him in the summer. Relocating to Swansea wasn’t at the top of his list because he’d been in London and Manchester for most of his career. But I think he made a really good choice in the club he went to.”

O’Neill, who gave Galbraith his senior international debut at just 17, said the midfielder’s progression has taken time but believes there is still another level to come.

“The player we always knew is now coming through. I’ve known him since he was 15 or 16. It took him longer than we hoped, but I think there’s another step in Ethan. I thought he was terrific.”

Speaking after Donald Trump suggested he was considering pulling the United States out of the alliance, Starmer said:

“Nato is the single most effective military alliance the world has ever seen, and it has kept us safe for many decades. We are fully committed to Nato.”

He added that “whatever the pressure on me and others, whatever the noise”, his decisions would be guided by the national interest.

Starmer reiterated that the UK would not be drawn directly into the current conflict, saying:

“This is not our war and we’re not going to get dragged into it.”

Calls for closer European cooperation

The Labour leader said defence, security and economic stability required closer ties with Europe, pointing to last year’s summit and confirming another would take place this year.

He said the upcoming meeting would:

- Build on equipment and agreements put in place last year  

- Go further on alignment with European partners  

Starmer framed the approach as part of a long‑term strategy to strengthen the UK’s security and economic resilience.

Samantha Jones, 41, was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court after admitting six counts of theft.

Between February and March this year, Jones targeted two stores across Maesteg, stealing more than £380 worth of items.

What she stole

- Four thefts from Asda, Maesteg – meat and spirits worth around £300  

- Two thefts from Filco Stores, Maesteg – coffee and meat worth around £80

Alongside her jail term, Jones has been handed a two‑year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) restricting where she can go once released.

Shops she is banned from entering

Jones is prohibited from entering:

- Any retail premises on Talbot Street and Commercial Street, Maesteg  

- Asda Stores, Castle Street, Maesteg  

- B&M Bargains, Llynfi Road, Maesteg  

- Filco Stores, Hermon Road, Caerau

Police: “Businesses deserve to trade without fear”

Maesteg Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Danieele Burton said:

“This was a thorough and in‑depth investigation run by our neighbourhood policing teams. Businesses in our community deserve to be able to trade without worrying about theft.  

Not only will Jones now serve a short sentence, but she will also be under conditions from the CBO when she is released.”

Darren Williams, 54, broke into the car on a lane just off Walter Road on March 23. Footage shows him approaching the vehicle in broad daylight, smashing the front passenger window and stealing items from inside.

Around an hour later, Williams came back to the same vehicle and attempted to access it again.

Caught with stolen items

Body‑worn camera footage from South Wales Police shows officers arresting Williams shortly afterwards. He was found in possession of items taken from the car.

Williams pleaded guilty to theft from a motor vehicle and criminal damage, and has been sentenced to 12 weeks in prison.

Police: “Zero tolerance”

PC Luke Morgan said:

“Thieves like Darren Williams make the good, law‑abiding people of Swansea fearful that their vehicle could be targeted at any time. We have a zero‑tolerance approach to thefts from motor vehicles, and it was pleasing to see this brazen offender brought to justice so quickly.”

Judith Bryce, assistant director of operations, said crews need to remain available for the most serious and life‑threatening incidents.

She said:  

“We expect the Easter bank holiday to be a busy time, and we’re asking the public to help ensure our crews are available for those who need us most. Calling 999 for something that isn’t an emergency could take vital resources away from someone in urgent need.”

She also reminded the public that arriving by ambulance does not mean you will be seen sooner in A&E.

---

Use 111 and other services for non‑emergencies

People are being encouraged to use:

- NHS 111 Wales website  

- Local pharmacies  

- Minor injury units

Last Easter saw a 44% rise in 111 calls compared with the previous week — something the service says helps keep ambulances free for critical cases.

---

Advice for the long weekend

The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging the public to:

- Collect prescriptions early  

- Keep basic first aid supplies at home  

- Drink responsibly if socialising  

- Plan journeys home in advance  

- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs  

- Check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours and relatives  

Demand is expected to remain high across the NHS throughout the holiday.

The message from the service is clear:  

Use 999 only for genuine emergencies, and help keep crews available for those who need them most.

The Japanese Bridge, one of the park’s most recognisable landmarks, has been cordoned off while the council assesses the extent of the issue. A notice placed on the fencing apologises for the inconvenience and asks visitors to use alternative routes.

A historic centrepiece of Clyne Gardens

The bridge forms part of the estate originally developed by William Graham Vivian, who bought Clyne Castle in 1860 and invested heavily in its gardens. His nephew, Algernon ‘The Admiral’ Vivian, took over in 1921 and shaped much of the landscape seen today — including the Japanese Bridge, the Admiral’s Tower and the gazebo.

Visitors express frustration

Regular visitors have voiced disappointment on social media, with some questioning why repairs have not already begun.

One wrote:  

“I walk in Clyne most weeks and this sight makes me angry every time I go past. Surely there should be a plan in place by now?”

Another added:  

“What a shame. So many fond memories — let’s hope they repair it soon.”

Council: Dead tree damaged the structure

A Swansea Council spokesperson said the closure was necessary after a dead tree impacted the bridge, causing structural concerns.

They said:

“Unfortunately we have had to close access to the Japanese Bridge due to a dead tree that had impacted the structure. The tree has been removed and we are currently assessing options for repair or reinstatement works.”

The council added that any work must be carefully planned to suit the bridge’s historic setting.

“The bridge is a valued and much‑loved feature of Clyne Gardens and we will provide further updates when work is ready to start.”

Kayla Smith, 18, Archie Rycroft, 19, and a 17‑year‑old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons, have all been remanded in custody. They are due to appear before Leeds Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Chloe died in hospital after being found unconscious with stab wounds at around 5.55am on Saturday in the Austhorpe area of Leeds.

Police were called to a property on Kennerleigh Avenue, east of the city centre, following reports that a young woman had been discovered unresponsive. Floral tributes have since been left at the scene.

Further arrests

- An 18‑year‑old man has also been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.  

- An 18‑year‑old woman and a 17‑year‑old boy, who were arrested on suspicion of murder, have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Family tribute: “My beautiful princess Chloe”

Chloe’s mother released a heartbreaking statement following her daughter’s death.

She said:

“My beautiful princess Chloe. I cannot put into words how I feel that you are not here with me.  

You are my life, my world, my best friend and I know that I am yours. I cannot live without you – I need you.”

She described Chloe as “stunning, confident, loyal, honest and family‑oriented,” adding:

“When you walk into any room, it lights up with your bubbly personality. There’s a big hole in my heart that can never be filled.”

She said Chloe’s siblings — Connor, Courtney and Cienna — would “always love and miss her to infinity.”

The astonishing footage shows the woman filling supermarket carrier bags with fuel before placing them loosely in the boot of her car — without attempting to seal or secure them. The clip, filmed by the baffled driver waiting behind her, has now been viewed more than 10 million times online.

The incident comes as rising oil prices and global supply disruption — triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East — have pushed UK fuel costs sharply upwards, prompting panic buying reminiscent of 2021.

Strait of Hormuz disruption driving global panic

According to reports, Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route that handles around 20% of the world’s oil trade. Attacks on vessels have left crews too afraid to travel through the region, causing major delays and uncertainty.

This turmoil has sent UK drivers rushing to forecourts, with fuel spending jumping 10.9% in a week.

Online backlash: “We’re not going to run out of fuel, love”

Social media users were quick to condemn the woman’s actions.

One commenter wrote:  

“This is just selfish. Look at her desperation. We’re not going to run out of fuel, love.”

Others pointed out the obvious safety risks:

- “What does she think will happen when she goes round a corner?”  

- “The petrol will eat through those plastic bags.”  

- “Sainsbury’s shopping bags though? At least use a jerry can.”

Fuel prices continue to climb

The latest figures show:

- Diesel: 181.2p per litre (up from 142.4p on Feb 28)  

- Petrol: 152p per litre (up 14%)  

The RAC is urging drivers to use the myRAC app to find the cheapest fuel locally.

Will the UK run out of oil?

A JP Morgan map circulating online shows when the final shipments of Gulf oil are expected to reach global destinations. It suggests most UK deliveries could cease by April 10, with Asia and parts of Africa affected even earlier.

However, analysts say actual shortages are unlikely, though prices may continue to rise.

The 15‑strong syndicate, made up of former colleagues who stayed connected through their weekly £5 lottery contributions, struck gold in the EuroMillions draw on Friday, February 27, matching the winning Millionaire Maker code.

The group first formed seven years ago as a “light‑hearted way to lift spirits” during long 14‑hour shifts at the steelworks — and the tradition continued long after retirement.

Among the winners are Port Talbot locals Gill Furlong, Christine Davies, Sally Wise, Julie Lambert, Allan Evans, Ian Howells and Raja Prasad.

“I thought it was an error”

Syndicate leader Paul Davy, 61, said he was stunned when the winning message appeared on his National Lottery app.

“I couldn’t believe it — a message just popped up on the app. I was checking Saturday’s draw when it flashed up. I thought it must be an error, but then I saw the winning code.”

The £1m prize will be split equally between the 15 members, with many already planning how they’ll spend their share — from paying off mortgages and helping family to dream kitchens, new cars and holidays.

For Paul, a cruise is top of the list.

“Me and my partner went on a cruise a couple of years ago. She was nervous at first because she doesn’t like boats, but we absolutely loved it. Another cruise is definitely on the cards — maybe the Mediterranean this time.”

A perfect excuse to reunite

The win has also given the group a reason to celebrate together. While a few members still meet occasionally “for a game of pool and a beer,” the full syndicate hasn’t gathered in years.

Now, they say, that’s about to change.

Lottery funding continues to support UK communities

Each week, National Lottery players help raise around £32 million for good causes. Since its launch, more than £52 billion has been distributed to projects in every UK postcode area.

The UK average now stands at:

- Petrol: 152.83p per litre  

- Diesel: 182.77p per litre  

That’s a near‑30p gap — the biggest difference ever recorded.

Before the conflict, the gap was around 10p. Now it’s triple that, and analysts expect the divide to keep widening.

This isn’t the first time global instability has pushed up prices. During the height of the Ukraine–Russia war in 2022, UK fuel hit record levels:  

- 191.5p per litre for petrol  

- 199.09p per litre for diesel  

Today, diesel is once again rising faster.

---

Why diesel is increasing more quickly than petrol

Several factors are driving the surge:

1. The UK relies heavily on diesel imports

The UK sources petrol and diesel from different parts of the world — and is far more dependent on imported diesel. Any disruption to global supply chains hits diesel prices harder and faster.

2. Diesel has more uses than petrol

Diesel isn’t just for cars and lorries. It’s also used for:

- Heating  

- Power generation  

- Aviation fuel  

- As a substitute for gas in some industries  

That wider demand pushes prices up when global supply tightens.

3. Diesel is more expensive to refine

Diesel is thicker and denser than petrol, and the refining process is more complex. When crude oil prices rise, diesel becomes disproportionately more expensive to produce.

4. Wholesale prices dictate what drivers pay

The RAC says pump prices are shaped by:

- Global crude oil prices  

- Refinery capacity  

- The pound–dollar exchange rate (fuel is traded in USD)  

- Distribution costs  

- Retailer margins  

- Fuel duty  

- VAT  

When wholesale diesel prices spike, forecourt prices follow quickly.

---

Latest supermarket petrol prices

- Morrisons: 149.0p  

- Asda: 147.1p  

- Tesco: 147.1p  

- Sainsbury’s: 146.9p  

Latest petrol prices from other brands

- Essar: 149.9p  

- JET: 152.0p  

- Murco: 151.4p  

- Esso: 152.7p  

- Texaco: 152.6p  

- BP: 153.4p  

- Shell: 156.1p  

- Asda Express: 153.4p  

---

Latest supermarket diesel prices

- Morrisons: 179.4p  

- Asda: 174.7p  

- Tesco: 175.1p  

- Sainsbury’s: 172.4p  

Latest diesel prices from other brands

- Essar: 179.9p  

- JET: 183.0p  

- Murco: 181.9p  

- Esso: 183.0p  

- Texaco: 184.3p  

- BP: 183.6p  

- Asda Express: 182.2p  

- Shell: 183.3p  

The lunar spectacle will be visible for three nights, from Tuesday, March 31, through to Thursday, April 2, with the moon reaching peak illumination in the early hours of Thursday morning.

When to see it

The Pink Moon will appear at its fullest at 3.12am on Thursday, April 2, meaning the best views will come late at night or just before dawn.

On Wednesday night, the moon is expected to take on a more orange hue, caused by its light passing through a thicker layer of Earth’s atmosphere. This scatters blue and violet wavelengths and allows warmer red tones to shine through.

Why is it called the Pink Moon?

Despite the name, the moon won’t actually appear pink. The term comes from Native American seasonal traditions, marking the springtime bloom of wild ground phlox — a pink flower that emerges in April.

What to expect this year

Last year’s Pink Moon was a micromoon, appearing smaller because it was at its furthest point from Earth. This year, it will be average in size, but still bright enough to dominate the night sky.

How to get the best view

For the clearest sighting:

- Look east at moonrise  

- Choose a spot away from tall buildings or trees  

- Bring binoculars for extra detail  

- Hope for clear skies  

The Pink Moon is one of the most reliable and striking full moons of the year — and a welcome sign that spring has truly arrived.

Here’s your at‑a‑glance guide to every Welsh local authority so you don’t end up putting the bins out on the wrong day.

(Information for Caerphilly will be added once confirmed.)

---

Anglesey

No changes to collections.

Blaenau Gwent

All waste and recycling services — including nappy, hygiene and green waste — running as normal.  

Household recycling centres open as usual.

Bridgend

- Good Friday (April 3): Collections as normal  

- Week starting April 6: Collections one day later than usual

Caerphilly

To be confirmed.

Cardiff

No changes over Easter.

Carmarthenshire

- March 30 – April 3: Collections one day earlier  

  (e.g. Thursday April 2 → Wednesday April 1)  

- April 6 – April 10: Collections one day later  

  (e.g. Thursday April 9 → Friday April 10)  

Applies to all waste streams including nappy, hygiene and garden waste.  

Recycling centres open as normal.

Ceredigion

- Friday April 3: No change  

- Monday April 6: Moved to Saturday April 4

Conwy

No changes.

Denbighshire

No changes.

Flintshire

Collections operate as normal on bank holidays except Christmas Day and Boxing Day — so no Easter changes.

Gwynedd

No changes.

Merthyr Tydfil

No changes.

Monmouthshire

No changes.

Neath Port Talbot

- Week starting April 6: Collections one day later  

  (e.g. Wednesday April 8 → Thursday April 9)

Newport

No changes.

Pembrokeshire

No changes.

Powys

No changes.

Rhondda Cynon Taf

No changes to kerbside recycling or waste collections.

Swansea

No changes to bank holiday collections until Christmas.

Torfaen

No changes.

Vale of Glamorgan

No changes.

Wrexham

No collections on Good Friday (April 3) or Easter Monday (April 6).

What this means:

- Recycling due Friday April 3: Put out extra recycling on Friday April 10  

- Black/blue bin + recycling due Friday April 3:  

  - Black/blue bins → Tuesday April 7  

  - Extra recycling → Friday April 10  

- Black/blue bin + recycling due Monday April 6:  

  - All collected Monday April 13  

- Recycling due Monday April 6:  

  - Extra recycling collected Monday April 13

Witnesses reported seeing more than 10 police vehicles, including armed units and officers carrying battering rams, at Rossett Hall Hotel in Wrexham. The large‑scale response prompted speculation online before both the hotel and North Wales Police released statements.

Police: “A male was detained”

Chief Inspector Wes Williams confirmed officers were called to an incident involving a man at the hotel.

He said:  

“Officers were called to an incident at a hotel in Rossett earlier today where a male was detained. I would like to reassure the community that this was an isolated incident, it was brought to a safe conclusion, and to thank them for their patience.”

Hotel: “A vulnerable individual”

Rossett Hall management said the incident involved a vulnerable person and praised police for their swift response.

In a statement, the hotel said:  

“Following an incident at Rossett Hall this afternoon involving a vulnerable individual, we would like to express our sincere thanks to North Wales Police for their swift and professional response. The situation has now been fully resolved and the hotel is operating as normal.”

On Tuesday morning, a spokesperson added that all guests and staff were “absolutely fine” and that it was business as usual.

Handling staff at Palma de Mallorca Airport walked out on Monday, with unions CCOO, UGT and USO calling for industrial action across all airports where Groundforce operates — including Palma, one of Spain’s busiest holiday hubs.

The strike entered its second day on Tuesday (March 31), plunging the airport into chaos just as hundreds of thousands of tourists begin arriving for the Easter getaway.

Three daily strike windows causing maximum disruption

Groundforce workers are striking during three peak periods each day:

- 5am – 7am  

- 11am – 5pm  

- 10pm – midnight

By midday on Tuesday, 12 flights had already been delayed — eight departures and four arrivals — with airport sources warning more disruption is likely throughout the week.

800,000 passengers expected over Easter

Around 800,000 travellers are expected to pass through Palma Airport over the Easter holidays, and tourists are being warned to brace for queues, delays and potential knock‑on disruption.

Local media report that the strike is already causing staffing shortages at check‑in, baggage handling and aircraft turnaround operations.

The Gorseinon 10K returns on Sunday, April 12, with the main race starting at 9am. Hundreds of runners are expected to take part, with the event once again raising money for Morgan’s Army and other local causes. A 2km family fun run will also take place.

Race route

The 10K will start and finish near Penyrheol Leisure Centre, before heading through Gorseinon High Street and joining the newly refurbished cycle path for around 4km. Runners will then make their way towards Pontarddulais, loop through Grovesend, and tackle the final stretch back to Penyrheol.

Road closures and restrictions

To keep runners safe, several roads will be closed or restricted during the event. Organisers say emergency access will be maintained at all times.

8.30am – 9.45am

- Pontarddulais Road (both directions)  

- Brynteg Road (and all adjoining roads)  

- Princess Street (and all adjoining roads)  

- High Street (and all adjoining roads)  

8.30am – 11.30am

- B2496 (and all adjoining roads)  

- Pentre Road / Grovesend High Street / Coalbrook Road (and all adjoining roads)  

- Heol y Mynydd (and all junctions/adjoining roads)  

- Pontarddulais Road (both directions)  

Race pack collection

Participants must collect their race packs — including bib and timing chip — in advance:

- Saturday, April 11 at Penyrheol Leisure Centre  

- Race day between 7.30am and 8.30am  

ID will be required.

Supporting Morgan’s Army

The event continues to honour the legacy of Morgan’s Army, founded by Natalie and Matthew Ridler after their son Morgan’s cancer diagnosis. Morgan died in June 2023, but the charity continues to support families affected by childhood cancer across Wales.

The movement, known as looksmaxxing, has exploded across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers promote extreme and often dangerous methods to “improve” physical attractiveness.

One of the most prominent figures driving the trend is Braden Eric Peters, known online as Clavicular. The 20‑year‑old influencer, who openly calls himself a misogynist, was arrested earlier this week on a battery charge after allegedly inciting a fight between two women and livestreaming it.

Despite his notoriety, he has built a huge following by encouraging young men to take drastic measures — including hammering their own cheekbones and jawlines in an attempt to “reshape” their faces.

Influencer admits his mother hid the hammer

Clavicular has previously admitted that as a teenager, his mother removed the hammer from their home to stop him injuring himself. He also claims to have bought testosterone and fat‑dissolving drugs online at just 14.

Reports now suggest boys as young as 10 years old are attempting the same “bone‑smashing” techniques.

Extreme methods: steroids, surgery and even drug use

Looksmaxxing forums — once hidden in obscure corners of the internet — now thrive on mainstream platforms. Vulnerable boys are encouraged to:

- Smash their faces with hammers  

- Take steroids  

- Undergo leg‑lengthening surgery  

- Use Botox and fillers  

- Follow extreme dieting routines  

Clavicular has also told followers he lost weight by smoking crystal meth, a behaviour he branded “leanmaxxing”.

Experts warn of severe mental health risks

Sociology expert Michael Halpin told The Sun that some young people are developing extreme self‑hatred, with forum users being told they are “too ugly” and should consider suicide.

One teenager reportedly said he would take his own life if he didn’t reach 6ft tall.

Counsellor Georgina Sturmer warned that the trend preys on people struggling with low self‑esteem, anxiety or isolation.

> “If we’re drawn towards this, it’s likely there are strong underlying emotional motivations,” she said.  

> “There are plenty of organisations ready to help.”

GP Dr Lawrence Cunningham added that while healthy grooming and fitness habits are normal, the line is crossed when practices become extreme or harmful.

Women affected too

Although the trend is now heavily associated with the online “manosphere”, women are also being drawn in. Russian woman Kseniya Didik, who began looksmaxxing as a teenager, said the obsession became “addictive” and pushed her into extreme dieting and repeated cosmetic procedures.

She warned that the trend has been “rebranded for men” but is rooted in the same insecurities that have long affected young women.

Helna Parathanam, 38, suffered catastrophic brain injuries in the collision on the A48 at St Nicholas in the Vale of Glamorgan on May 3, 2024. She never regained full consciousness and died more than a month later in hospital.

Two of her close friends and housemates, Diya Dolwin and Parvathi Selvaraj, were also seriously injured but told the court they do not blame the driver, Jose John, who they described as “like a brother”.

Friends had gone to watch the sunset — then slept in the car

Cardiff Crown Court heard the group had worked long shifts the previous day and decided to drive to Southerndown Beach to watch the sunset. They arrived too early and slept in the car before deciding to head home around 5am.

Helna and Parvathi were in the back seats, but the rear seatbelts were trapped behind the seats and could not be used.

As they drove back towards Cardiff, John repeatedly drifted into the opposite lane. At one point he stopped to adjust a seatbelt and splash water on his face — clear signs, prosecutors said, that he was struggling with extreme tiredness.

No braking before impact

As the car entered St Nicholas, CCTV showed the Ford Fiesta clipping the pavement near a bus stop before ploughing into a wall with no sign of braking.

Passers‑by rushed to help. Helna was unconscious and gravely injured. A CT scan later revealed extensive brain damage and swelling. She died on June 20, 2024.

Helna — also known as Helna Marie Siby — had moved from India to South Wales just weeks earlier to begin her nursing studies. Her family described her as an “adored daughter, sister and family member” who was “loved by everyone who knew her”.

Survivors suffered serious injuries

- Diya Dolwin sustained rib fractures, abdominal injuries, concussion and memory loss.  

- Parvathi Selvaraj suffered spinal and pelvic injuries, a fractured chest bone, a liver laceration and ongoing pain.

Both women said they still experience trauma, flashbacks and anxiety — but remain united in supporting each other.

Victims: “We don’t blame Jose”

In powerful statements, both surviving passengers said they do not hold John responsible.

Diya said:

> “We know Jose will have to receive a sentence but we think of it as an accident that could have happened to anyone.  

>   

> He was like a brother to us. Even after we were discharged, he was the only one who helped us.”

Parvathi added that she still suffers pain and flashbacks but is working through the trauma with Diya’s support.

Driver devastated and remorseful

John, 27, from Southampton, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He has no previous convictions.

His barrister said he suffers flashbacks, struggles to sleep and relives the crash “almost every day”. He had reached out to Helna’s family, who accepted his apology but were not ready to speak with him in detail.

Judge: “A tragedy with significant impact on everyone”

Judge Christopher Felstead described the case as “a tragedy” that had deeply affected all involved.

John was sentenced to:

- 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months  

- 120 hours of unpaid work  

- 25‑day rehabilitation programme  

- 18‑month driving ban

The incident happened at around 3.55pm on Tuesday, March 24, as the child was walking along Scarrowscant Lane, close to Furzy Park.

Dyfed‑Powys Police say a shiny blue car, similar in size and shape to an Audi A4, pulled up alongside her. The passenger got out, placed his hand on the girl’s arm, spoke to her briefly, then returned to the vehicle before it drove off towards Furzy Park.

The child was not injured and immediately went home to tell her parents, who alerted police.

Description of the suspect

The man who got out of the car is described as:

- White  

- Around 5ft 11  

- Short dark brown hair  

- Brown beard  

- Believed to be in his 40s  

- Wearing a black T‑shirt, black jogging bottoms and white trainers

There is currently no description of the driver.

Police appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage

A Dyfed‑Powys Police spokesperson said:

> “Local officers have been carrying out a number of enquiries since this matter was reported and are now appealing for anyone who may have information that could assist our investigation.”

Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who:

- Saw the shiny blue car in the area  

- Has dashcam footage from Scarrowscant Lane or Furzy Park around the time of the incident  

- Recognises the description of the suspect  

Anyone with information is urged to contact police quoting reference 26*235970 via:

- Online reporting  

- Email: 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk  

- Direct message on social media  

- Phone: 101

Daniel Wyke, 28, hit Aaron Jones, 38, with such force that the dog walker was thrown over a stone wall and into a churchyard pond. Wyke was driving at 34mph in a 20mph zone when he ploughed into him on December 23, 2024.

Swansea Crown Court heard how Aaron — described by his family as “a gentle and loving soul” — had only just left home to walk the family’s labrador in Llanpumsaint when he was struck. His family initially believed he was missing after a member of the public found the dog alone in the road.

Wyke saw Aaron’s body — then lied and drove away

An eyewitness heard the impact and came outside to find Wyke picking up pieces of his damaged Volkswagen. Wyke claimed he had hit a branch and insisted he didn’t know where the dog had come from.

He then looked over the wall, where Aaron’s body lay either dead or dying — but still chose to leave.

Instead of calling for help, Wyke continued delivering Chinese food, returned briefly to the scene minutes later, then left again. At the restaurant, he complained to another driver about the damage to his car, saying he only had third‑party insurance.

Prosecutor Ian Wright said Wyke was visibly agitated, kicking his car and swearing about repair costs.

Family found Aaron while Wyke swapped cars

Meanwhile, Aaron’s family and friends launched a frantic search. A friend eventually spotted his high‑vis jacket over the wall and began CPR, but it was too late. Aaron was pronounced dead at the scene.

Wyke, meanwhile, had swapped his damaged car for his father’s vehicle and finished his delivery shift.

He was arrested the following afternoon after forensic officers matched green fibres from his shattered windscreen to Aaron’s jacket.

Judge: “Cruelly inhumane”

Wyke claimed he had “lied in a panic” and said he was neurodivergent. But Judge Paul Thomas KC said Wyke had shown no genuine remorse.

In a devastating sentencing address, he told Wyke:

> “Had you been looking, he would’ve been visible to you for about 100 metres — the length of a rugby pitch.  

>   

> After you hit Mr Jones, it must have been obvious you had caused very serious injury.  

>   

> You quite simply decided to prioritise evading responsibility rather than give him any help. That was cruelly inhumane.”

He added:

> “You drove off leaving him dead or dying while you carried on with your deliveries, worried about the cost of repairing your car.  

>   

> Your dangerous driving cost the life of a well‑loved father, husband and son. Aaron Jones is irreplaceable.”

Sentence

Wyke was jailed for four and a half years for causing death by dangerous driving.

Gwent Police is looking for Georgina Dyke, who was last seen almost a week ago

Officers are looking for a 33-year-old woman from south Wales who has been missing for almost a week

• Gwent Police is appealing for information to help them find Georgina. The 33-year-old, from Bedwas, was last seen in the shopping area of Lansbury Park heading in the direction of Porset Park on Tuesday, March 24, at around 5.15pm.
• Georgina is described as white, about 5ft 2, slim-build with straight long dark brown/black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black gilet, a grey top and black jeans.
• The force said she has links to Caerphilly, Bargoed and Cardiff.
• Gwent Police said: "Anyone with information on Georgina's whereabouts is asked to call us on 101 or send us a direct message on Facebook or X, quoting log reference 2600091548. Georgina is also urged to get in touch with us to confirm that she is safe and well."

The incident unfolded eight minutes from time in Saturday’s Rugby CHAMP clash, when a mass scuffle broke out between players. Referee Jamie Parr admitted he did not see how the fracas started, but told his assistant he did witness a Pirates coach entering the field of play and striking a Worcester player.

> “What I haven’t seen is what started it,” Parr said over the referee mic.  

> “But I have seen the coach from Cornish Pirates come onto the field of play and slap one of the players in the face.”

He then issued a red card to a member of the Pirates coaching staff, later confirmed to be joint‑head coach Alan Paver.

Parr told Worcester’s players that the matter would be dealt with after the match, saying:  

> “Discipline will look after it after the game. It is not for now.”

Worcester replacement Jake Garside is believed to be the player involved.

Pirates: “We accept responsibility”

In a statement released Sunday evening, Cornish Pirates confirmed Paver was the coach dismissed and said the club would fully cooperate with the RFU’s disciplinary process.

> “We accept responsibility for our part in the incident, the actions taken and acknowledge the seriousness of the matter,” the club said.  

> “Our priority is to respect the due process and learn from this event. We will be making no further comment at this stage.”

Paver, a long‑serving coach and former player who joined the Pirates in 2002, now faces a tribunal and could receive a touchline ban if found guilty.

Worcester end Pirates’ winning run

The match finished 29–7 to Worcester, ending the Pirates’ five‑game winning streak.

Hooker Ieuan Morris was the hero of the day, completing his hat‑trick with a final‑play try to rescue the SRC leaders, who had been staring at a third straight league defeat.

“It was an extraordinary game, featuring five yellow cards and one red,” said Strange.  

“Given our injuries and suspensions, the team delivered an outstanding performance and secured a crucial victory against a much‑improved Swansea side.”

Chaos, cards and a late comeback

Ebbw struck first through wing Liam Lloyd, but Swansea were dealt a major blow when back‑rower Iwan Shenton was sent off for an off‑the‑ball shoulder charge.

Despite being down to 14, the Whites rallied. Tries from Lewis Edwards and Matthew Aubrey, both converted by Josh Phillips, gave them a 19–8 half‑time lead.

But Swansea’s discipline collapsed after the break. Yellow cards for Kian Hire and Mat Protheroe reduced them to 12 men, allowing Ebbw to surge ahead with:

- A penalty try  

- Morris’ second try  

- A score from centre Cameron Davies  

- Two conversions from Tom Price  

That put the visitors 29–19 up.

Swansea fight back — before Ebbw steal it

Ebbw then found themselves in trouble as Curtis Gregory and Luke Garrett were both sin‑binned. Swansea hit back with a penalty try and a converted score from Callum Bowden, turning the game on its head at 33–29.

But there was still time for one final twist.

Another Swansea yellow — this time for Iwan Glynn — handed Ebbw a lifeline. They kicked to the corner, set up the maul, and Morris powered over to seal a dramatic victory.

---

Elsewhere in the Admiral Premiership

Newport 35–20 Bridgend Ravens

Reigning champions Newport made it six wins in a row, securing a double bonus‑point victory. Tries came from:

- Dafydd Buckland  

- Ben Roach  

- Kyle Tayler  

- Henry Palmer  

- Chay Foster‑Smith  

All were converted by Harrison James. Bridgend claimed a bonus point through four unconverted tries, including a brace for Corey Lewis.

RGC 41–23 Carmarthen Quins

RGC climbed above the Quins into sixth after a powerful second‑half display at Parc Eirias. Tries from Billy McBryde, Delwyn Jones, Caio Parry, Sam Jones and Osian Burt secured six points for the hosts.

Carmarthen responded through Eilir George, Gabe McDonald, and earlier scores from Lee Taylor and Ilan Phillips.

Aberavon 38–14 Pontypool

Aberavon finally ended their long wait for a win, beating bottom‑side Pontypool thanks to a first‑half hat‑trick from scrum‑half Scott Whitlock. Further tries from Ashton Evans and Scott Delnevo sealed a much‑needed victory.

In a report published Monday, the Welsh Affairs Committee said it recognises the wider need for more prison places across the adult male estate. But it warned that expanding the Bridgend jail now would distract from essential safety improvements still being embedded.

The recommendation follows two years of scrutiny triggered by the deaths of 17 inmates in 2024, which exposed serious issues around violence, suicide, drug misuse and inadequate support services at the category B/C prison.

Inspectors still concerned despite progress

A full inspection in January 2025 found:

- High levels of violence  

- Widespread illicit drug use  

- Significant self‑harm  

- Under‑resourced mental health and substance misuse services  

- Staffing shortages  

A follow‑up inspection in January 2026 noted improvements and praised staff and leadership, but warned that more than half of inspectors’ concerns had not been sufficiently addressed.

Despite this, the UK Government’s 10‑year prison capacity strategy includes 345 additional places for Parc as part of its plan to create 14,000 new spaces nationwide.

Committee: Expansion risks undoing progress

The committee concluded that the scale of failings uncovered in 2024 — and the ongoing work to stabilise the prison — mean expansion should not proceed at this stage.

Committee chair Ruth Jones MP said:

> “The deaths of 17 inmates in 2024 have shone a light on the problems with suicide, self‑harm and drug use that have been plaguing HMP Parc.  

> Every preventable death is a tragedy. Improving the safety and wellbeing of men serving sentences at the prison must be at the forefront of any decisions made by management and government.”

She warned that expanding the prison now would be “an unwanted distraction” that could jeopardise progress and compromise safety.

> “The expansion of the prison estate is needed, but Parc is not currently the place for it.  

> Prisoners deserve safe environments that support rehabilitation, not violent settings that threaten their physical and mental health.”

Government urged to rethink plans

The committee is calling on the UK Government to reconsider whether Parc can safely absorb hundreds of additional inmates while still addressing the deep‑rooted issues highlighted by inspectors.

A final decision on the expansion has not yet been announced.

Floyd Powell, 36, had been studying to become a physician associate and holds a PhD in cancer therapeutics. Swansea Crown Court heard that his conviction will have a “catastrophic” impact on his career prospects in medical research or the NHS.

Undercover officer posed as a teenage boy

Prosecutor Abul Hussain told the court that in April 2023 Powell contacted what he thought was a 13‑year‑old boy on the social networking platform Hornet. The profile was in fact a decoy account run by an online policing team.

The pair later moved their conversations to Snapchat, where Powell:

- Said he was “looking for fun”  

- Commented on the boy’s body  

- Asked for “sexy” pictures  

- Asked when they were going to have sex  

When the decoy stated he was 13, Powell replied that he was “cool” with the age.

Arrest and interview

Powell was arrested in October 2023. Officers seized two phones and a tablet. He admitted the Hornet profile was his but gave “no comment” answers when asked about the messages. He denied having any sexual interest in children.

Powell, of St Mary’s Square in Swansea city centre, later pleaded guilty to attempted sexual communication with a child. He has no previous convictions.

Defence: Stress and “curiosity”

Defence barrister James McKenna said Powell was highly academically qualified and had been under significant stress from his studies. He suggested Powell’s actions were linked to “curiosity” about his sexuality.

He told the court:

> “Whatever sentence the court imposes, the conviction alone is catastrophic for his career.”

Judge: “The usual sad tale”

Judge Geraint Walters said the case was another example of an adult engaging in sexual conversations with a decoy believing they were speaking to a real child.

He criticised the length of time it had taken for the case to reach court, saying the delay would be reflected in the sentence.

Community sentence imposed

Powell was handed an 18‑month community order, which includes:

- A rehabilitation programme  

- 150 hours of unpaid work  

He will also be:

- On the sex offender register for five years  

- Subject to a five‑year Sexual Harm Prevention Order

Stewart Parker, 34, was spotted by plain‑clothed officers from a specialist organised crime team on February 5 this year. They saw him repeatedly entering and leaving Merlin’s Bar on Windsor Road before approaching a parked car and carrying out what appeared to be a drug deal.

Officers moved in and detained him. Parker immediately admitted he had cocaine in his wallet. A search uncovered five snap‑seal bags containing underweight half‑gram deals. He told officers:

> “I don’t take it… I’m dealing to make money to get out of debt. It is stupid.”

A search of his home found more cocaine, weighing scales and traces of benzocaine — a common cutting agent.

Dealer’s phone revealed he was “working the pubs”

Parker gave police the PIN to his iPhone. Messages showed he had been actively supplying cocaine, including texts saying he was “working the pubs in Neath”. Officers also found conversations with his “upstream supplier”.

That supplier was identified as Sophie Rees, 34. Police tracked her down the next day to her parents’ home, where she was caught setting up a new phone and SIM card — believed to be an attempt to destroy evidence after learning of Parker’s arrest.

Rees was found with £1,690 in cash, which she claimed came from selling horses. Both she and Parker answered “no comment” in interview.

Both admit cocaine supply

Parker, of Wern Road, Skewen, and Rees, of Southgate Street, Melin, Neath, pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine. Rees also admitted possession of criminal property.

Parker has 12 previous convictions, including burglary and two assaults. Rees has five, including public disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

Defence: Debt, grief and drug use

Parker’s barrister said he was “thoroughly ashamed” and had previously worked as a carer while studying health and social care with the Open University. Debt, she said, pushed him into dealing.

Rees’ barrister said she was a “devoted mother” who had stayed out of trouble for 14 years until 2025, which had been a “particularly difficult year” following her grandfather’s death. Her cocaine use escalated, leading to significant debts.

Judge: Class A drugs “blight communities”

Judge Geraint Walters said Neath, like many towns, had a “profound problem” with drugs.

> “Class A drugs not only blight the health of those addicted but blight communities where decent people live and work.”

He said dealing was a “mug’s game” motivated by either addiction or greed, and that all dealers know the consequences if caught.

Both jailed for three years

With credit for their guilty pleas:

- Parker was jailed for three years  

- Rees was also jailed for three years  

Both will serve up to half their sentences in custody before being released on licence.

22‑year‑old Nadia M. Horn, a staff member at North High School in Eau Claire, was taken into custody after a colleague reported concerns about an inappropriate relationship between her and a student. Police say multiple potential victims have now been identified.

Lieutenant Mark Pieper confirmed Horn was arrested on charges of sexual assault of a child by a school staff member and second‑degree sexual assault of a child, adding that investigators are still working to determine the full extent of the case.

According to Eau Claire Police, the investigation began on March 25, 2026, when the school district alerted the School Resource Officer at North High School to a possible inappropriate relationship. Officers gathered evidence that led to Horn’s arrest. She was transported to Eau Claire County Jail and is awaiting her initial court appearance. She has not yet entered a plea.

School District Responds

In a letter to families, Eau Claire Area School District Superintendent Mike Johnson described the allegations as “deeply troubling.”

> “We kindly request that the school community respect the privacy of our students and their families and refrain from spreading rumours or speculation,” he wrote, adding that student support services are available for anyone affected.

The district said it cannot answer further questions due to the ongoing police investigation and encouraged anyone with information to contact Eau Claire Police.

Police Praise School Resource Officer

Lieutenant Pieper highlighted the crucial role of the school resource officer in uncovering the alleged offences.

> “The role of a school resource officer is about relationship‑building within the school,” he said.  

> “Without those partnerships, we wouldn’t receive nearly the amount of information that we do. SROs build trust with staff and students alike.”

Horn remains in custody as the investigation continues.

The mess was spotted on Friday, March 27, just days before families are expected to flock to the coast for the Easter holidays. The substance has not yet been officially identified, but environmental campaign group Surfers Against Sewage currently lists an active discharge alert at the Saundersfoot car park overflow.

“Absolutely disgusting” — locals warn beachgoers

Local resident Leigh Mears, who came across the sludge while walking his dog, said the scene was shocking.

> “It’s absolutely disgusting. There are no warning signs anywhere,” he told Pulse Media.  

> “I had to warn several people because they were throwing balls for their dogs straight into what looks like thick piles of poo.”

He said the sludge was spread across much of Coppet Hall Beach and raised concerns about children coming into contact with it during the busy half‑term weekend.

> “Kids will be using the beach — imagine if they ingest it.”

Mr Mears has since reported the incident to Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

Authorities now investigating

An NRW spokesperson confirmed the report and said officers are looking into the matter.

> “This issue has been reported to NRW and we are investigating.”

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water also confirmed it is examining a possible storm overflow spill in the area.

> “We’ve received a report from Natural Resources Wales of a possible storm overflow spill in Saundersfoot,” a spokesperson said.  

> “Our team is on site to investigate and understand the cause.”

Further updates are expected once testing and inspections are complete.

Westbridge Furniture Limited, based in Holywell, Flintshire, and its sister company Belfield Leisure Limited have both entered administration, with Chris Pole and Will Wright of Interpath Advisory appointed as joint administrators this week.

Westbridge designs and manufactures sofas and upholstery for high‑street and premium retailers, while Belfield Leisure — headquartered in Ilkeston, Derbyshire — supplies soft furnishings to the UK leisure industry and employs around 200 staff. Both companies operate under The Belfield Group.

Operational disruption and loss of major customer blamed

The two firms were created in February 2025 following a pre‑pack acquisition of assets from Westbridge Furniture Designs Limited and Belfield Furnishings Limited. But administrators say the newly formed companies were hit by significant operational disruption soon after the takeover.

Westbridge was further impacted by the loss of a major customer and weak trading at the start of 2025, putting severe pressure on cashflow.

Belfield Leisure, meanwhile, struggled with falling consumer confidence across the leisure sector. Despite cost‑cutting and attempts to regain market share, the company was unable to return to breakeven and required urgent capital to stay afloat.

When efforts to secure new investment or refinancing failed, directors made the decision to seek administration.

Companies continue trading while buyers sought

The administrators say both businesses will continue operating for now, with certain orders being completed while a potential sale of the companies and their assets is explored. Most staff will remain in place to support ongoing operations, though a small number of redundancies have already been made.

Interpath managing director Chris Pole said the wider furniture industry has faced intense pressure.

> “After a spike in demand during Covid‑19, the sector has since been hit by falling sales, high interest rates and inflation,” he said.  

> “Both Westbridge and Belfield Leisure had made progress on their turnaround plans, but further capital was needed. Unfortunately, despite management’s best efforts, funding could not be secured.”

Pole added that administrators intend to trade Belfield Leisure as a going concern while maintaining operations at Westbridge long enough to complete existing work.

> “We invite any interested parties to contact us as soon as possible.”

Other Belfield Group companies unaffected

Interpath confirmed that other businesses within The Belfield Group — including Tetrad Furniture Limited and Clinchplain Foam and Fibre Limited — are not in administration and continue to operate as normal.

Vetch Field — Swansea City’s home from the club’s formation in 1912 until their move to the Liberty Stadium in 2005 — remains one of the rare success stories. For nearly a century, the ground hosted the highs and lows of life in the lower tiers of English football, witnessing promotions, relegations and generations of supporters who packed into a stadium that, by its final days, held just under 12,000 fans.

Despite its modest size compared to the modern Swansea.com Stadium, many supporters still speak fondly of the intimacy and character the Vetch offered. And thanks to Swansea Council, parts of the old ground continue to stand today at what is now known as Vetch Park.

One of the most striking remnants is the original centre circle, still carefully maintained as a community green space overlooking the city. Its preservation isn’t just sentimental — over the years, many supporters chose the Vetch as their final resting place, with ashes scattered across the pitch. Out of respect, both the club and council committed to protecting the area.

Visitors will also find a surviving stretch of stadium wall, complete with a Swansea City crest, standing in remarkably good condition. It borders a wide open space where thousands once gathered on matchdays.

But perhaps the most iconic survivor is the players’ tunnel. Wedged between two terraced houses, the narrow passage still bears the old Gate 2 sign, marking it as the entrance for players, directors, officials and the press. Its design evokes memories of traditional British football grounds like Luton Town’s Kenilworth Road, where the sport and local life blend into one.

Nearby, a rusting gate from the former East Stand remains in place — a relic awaiting its final chapter, now leading only to a dead end.

The Vetch wasn’t just a football venue. It once hosted major cultural moments too, with legendary performers such as The Who in 1976 and Stevie Wonder in 1984 taking to the stage. And its record attendance — an astonishing 32,796 — came during an FA Cup clash with Arsenal in 1968.

Today, Vetch Park stands as a rare example of a former football ground that hasn’t been erased from the landscape. Instead, it has been woven back into the community, preserving memories while offering a peaceful green space in the heart of Swansea.

A Freedom of Information request submitted by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) shows Cardiff Council spent £5.7 million on road surfacing, £72,469 on pothole repairs, and £1.5 million on patching work in 2025. All three categories represent the highest spending levels since 2020.

The year before, the council spent almost half that amount on surfacing and significantly less on potholes and patching. But despite the surge in investment, many people living in the city say they’ve seen little improvement on the ground.

“It’s embarrassing for a capital city”

Resident Liz Nihan didn’t hold back when speaking to the LDRS.

> “It’s atrocious. The roads in Cardiff are absolutely appalling,” she said.  

> “It’s embarrassing for a capital city… wherever you drive, it’s just appalling.”

Others echoed the frustration. Sukhcharan Gill said potholes have become unavoidable.

> “The potholes are just mad. Me and my son have had punctures, cuts — everything,” he said.  

> “Some you can dodge, but some parts are really bad now.”

Regular visitor Sheena Cameron said the issues are noticeable even from the bus.

> “There can be big dips where you really get thrown about,” she said, adding that grooves around bus stops have become so deep “it’s almost like a wave.”

Another resident, Ben, who didn’t want to give his surname, said repairs often feel temporary.

> “It feels like potholes are left unattended or fixed in a way that won’t last,” he said.  

> “It makes it feel like they’re done on the cheap.”

Council: “A challenging winter and a national backlog”

Cardiff Council said the city is facing the same pressures as local authorities across the UK, pointing to a £12bn national backlog in road repairs.

A spokesperson said the winter’s persistent heavy rainfall caused “significant and continuous damage” to road surfaces, leading to a spike in potholes. Utility works were also blamed for weakening road structures and allowing water to seep in.

The council said 4,252 potholes were repaired in the first two months of this year alone, compared to 12,660 across the whole of 2025.

Temporary fixes, they added, are sometimes necessary to make roads safe quickly, with more permanent resurfacing carried out later.

The spokesperson also confirmed Cardiff has received an additional £10m from Welsh Government for resurfacing over the next two years.

More permanent repairs planned

Looking ahead, the council says it aims to increase the use of long‑term reinstatement methods rather than temporary patches, and will trial new repair techniques alongside ongoing resurfacing programmes.

Michelle Morgan, who keeps several horses on her small holding near Pontardawe, says her 21‑year‑old mare Lass became trapped after being spooked by off‑road bikers riding across common land. The incident unfolded on Saturday evening near Gwrhyd Road, where Lass became stuck thigh‑deep in freezing mud for around four hours.

Three crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene and managed to free the horse using specialist equipment. But despite hopes of a recovery, Lass suffered a seizure shortly after being loaded into a horse box and was later put to sleep.

“Everyone was hoping for a happy ending”

Ms Morgan described the heartbreaking final hours with her mare.

> “We couldn’t move Lass because she couldn’t stand. She took a couple of steps and collapsed,” she said.  

> “She seemed bright at first. The vet was with me for seven and a half hours. But her body went into severe cramps — atypical myopathy — and things went the wrong way.”

Lass, who was nine weeks away from giving birth to what would have been her final foal, suffered a seizure inside the horse box.

> “It would have been cruel to take it any further,” Ms Morgan said.  

> “I wasn’t going to drag her off the box across a stony track. It’s not fair.”

She described standing in the freezing bog water for hours, refusing to leave her horse’s side.

> “I was shaking so badly. People were giving me their jackets, but I wasn’t leaving her.”

Long‑running issues with off‑road bikers

Ms Morgan, who has kept animals all her life, says the tragedy is part of a wider problem with off‑road bikers riding across Gwrhyd Mountain and surrounding common land.

She claims riders regularly cut through areas where horses, cows and sheep graze, frightening animals and putting them at risk.

> “It’s got out of hand,” she said.  

> “People are trailering bikes up from Swansea. I’ve been told that instead of going around the horses, they went straight through them. Lass must have taken one stride too far and ended up in the bog.”

She says other animals have already been harmed.

> “A friend of mine lost a foal last year because of scrambler bikes. It cut its stomach open on wire fencing after being spooked.”

Ms Morgan described spending hours last summer blocking a gate at Tairgwaith to stop bikers entering the land.

> “Some of them were understanding, but others didn’t grasp the danger. There are cows calving up here — calves hidden in reeds — and they’re flying over embankments on bikes without knowing what’s underneath.”

“Enough is enough”

Ms Morgan says many farmers are too afraid to confront riders, worried it will only make the situation worse.

> “But they’re chasing the animals anyway. Enough is enough,” she said.  

> “It’s been reported to the police and I hope they take note and police it better.”

South Wales Police has been contacted for comment.

Monmouthshire County Council confirmed that the Old Wye Bridge, which links Bridge Street to Castleford Hill, has now been shut to all users, including pedestrians. The decision follows urgent safety advice from specialist engineers who inspected the structure this week.

The cast‑iron bridge has already been closed to traffic for several months while detailed inspections were carried out. But during the latest assessment, engineers identified several new cracks in the structure, prompting an immediate safety warning.

According to the council, experts advised that the bridge could no longer be considered safe for pedestrians due to the deterioration.

Closure implemented on March 27

The council said a team was being deployed on the evening of March 27 to secure the site and put the full closure in place. Officials will continue working with structural engineers to assess the damage and determine what repairs or long‑term solutions are required.

Further updates are expected once the full condition of the bridge has been evaluated.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident happened at around 2pm local time in the same town where Woods lives. A photo from the scene shows a vehicle lying on its driver’s side, though police have not yet released details about Woods’ condition or how the crash occurred.

Officers remain at the scene and an investigation is underway. A local sheriff is expected to brief the media at around 5pm ET (10pm UK time).

Woods’ history of serious injuries

The crash comes five years after Woods suffered major leg injuries in a 2021 collision in California, where his car rolled multiple times. He later underwent surgery for open fractures in his right leg, including the insertion of a rod in his tibia and screws in his ankle and foot.

His recovery has been long and complicated. Woods required further surgery in April 2023 and has since dealt with a lumbar disc replacement and an Achilles injury, all of which have limited his ability to compete.

Hopes of returning for the Masters

Despite his ongoing physical challenges, Woods recently expressed optimism about returning to competitive golf at the Masters at Augusta National next month. He has not played a professional event since The Open in July 2024.

Speaking recently about his recovery, Woods said:

> “I’ve been working on it. Some days are good, some days are bad. Disk replacement is not a lot of fun… the body doesn’t quite heal like it did when I was 24.”

He added that he is still pushing to return:

> “I keep trying — I want to play. I’ve loved the Masters since I was 19. It means a lot to me and my family, and I’m going to be there either way.”

Woods’ most recent appearance was in the TGL Finals with his Jupiter Links Golf Club, where his team suffered a 9–2 defeat to Los Angeles Golf Club.

Tillie Young‑Lewis was found unresponsive at her family home on March 2, 2024. Despite emergency services being called immediately, paramedics were unable to revive her.

At Pontypridd Coroners’ Court, coroner Graeme Hughes said Tillie had experienced difficulties gaining weight in the months after her birth. Medical assessments were carried out, but no underlying reason for the “sub‑optimal” weight gain was ever identified.

However, the coroner stressed that there were no acute health concerns in the days leading up to her death. Tillie had recently been treated for bronchitis following a viral infection, but this had already been diagnosed and managed.

Post‑mortem unable to find a cause

A paediatric pathologist carried out extensive post‑mortem examinations, but Mr Hughes told the court that, on the balance of probabilities, no medical cause could be established.

> “Several potential causes indicated a natural causation, and there was no evidence to suggest an unnatural causation,” he said.

The coroner recorded a conclusion of death by natural causes, with the medical cause listed as unascertained.

Thomas Serpell, of Regent Street, Aberaman, Aberdare, sent a series of disturbing texts to the child, asking him to kiss him, see him naked, and “be his boyfriend”. Cardiff Crown Court heard the messages left the boy “confused and uncomfortable”.

Serpell then told the child to delete the messages and not to tell his mother, allowing him to hide what he had done. He later claimed the messages were a “joke”.

When the matter was reported to police, Serpell initially denied sending any messages at all.

Judge Paul Hobson told Serpell the impact on the child had been “significant”.

> “You only have to think how frightening and disturbing this episode must have been for that child,” he said.

A victim personal statement read in court described how the boy is now scared to go out alone, struggles to eat and sleep, and has become increasingly isolated. The court also heard there have been concerns about self‑harm.

Defendant claimed seizure caused behaviour

Serpell pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual communication with a child. The court heard he had no previous convictions.

His barrister, Nick Gedge, said Serpell has epilepsy and claimed the offence took place shortly after a seizure. He also said his client had been bullied in school and by his father because of his sexuality.

Judge Hobson rejected the suggestion that epilepsy played any part in the offending.

> “Epilepsy does not cause people to sexually offend against children,” he said.  

> “You have sought to minimise your behaviour.”

Jailed and placed under long‑term restrictions

Serpell was sentenced to 12 months in prison. He was also made subject to:

- A 10‑year restraining order  

- A 10‑year Sexual Harm Prevention Order  

- 10 years on the sex offender register

The gross misconduct hearing, which has been running throughout the week, centres on allegations that Officer Z sexually harassed PC A, a female officer he was supervising. Both officers have been granted anonymity due to concerns raised by the panel chair.

But on the fourth day of evidence, the hearing took an unexpected turn when a witness — PC SW — admitted she had made a serious error of judgement in her own involvement.

Witness admits she “overstepped” by sharing information with accused officer

PC SW told the panel she had been a “very close friend” of both Officer Z and PC A. After learning a complaint had been made, she attempted to get details from PC A, who only revealed that a “vile comment” had been made.

Despite this limited information, PC SW admitted she passed the comment on to Officer Z — before he had even been interviewed about the allegation.

Under intense questioning, she conceded she had “overstepped” and acted inappropriately.

> “I was tied up in the moment,” she told the panel.  

> “I was concerned for his mental health… but yes, I overstepped.”

South Wales Police confirmed the force was unaware of PC SW’s actions until she disclosed them during the hearing. The force said her conduct will be reviewed once the current proceedings conclude.

Officer Z accused of abusing power and tormenting junior colleague

The panel heard allegations that Officer Z:

- Told PC A he wanted to cheat on his wife with her  

- He wanted to “f*” her  

- Questioned her about relationships with male colleagues  

- Became angry when she refused to answer  

- Sent her hundreds of messages, including one calling her an “a*hole”  

- Made her feel scared to come to work  

Barrister Mark Ley‑Morgan, presenting the case against him, said the officer had “abused his power” and used his supervisory role to exert pressure on PC A.

The alleged harassment is said to have taken place between January 19 and 30, 2024.

Witness challenged over loyalty to accused officer

During cross‑examination, Mr Ley‑Morgan pressed PC SW on why she had shared information with the accused officer despite being a potential witness.

> “You were firmly in his camp from the outset,” he said.  

> “You reached out to her, she properly declined to tell you anything — and shortly afterwards you told him everything you knew.”

PC SW insisted she had tried to support both colleagues, but accepted she had met Officer Z twice before his interview and told him she did not believe the allegation.

Incident during first aid training highlighted

The panel also heard about an incident during a first aid session in which Officer Z used a dummy to demonstrate wound packing, made an obscene gesture, and asked PC A: “Is this turning you on?”

He accepts the comment was inappropriate but denies directing it specifically at her.

Defence accuses complainant of lying

Officer Z denies the most serious allegations, though he admits telling PC A he “liked” her and later apologised in a text message.

His barrister, Susannah Stevens, accused PC A of telling “complete lies” and claimed she had openly discussed her personal life with colleagues, including asking about sexual positions on a night out.

She also argued that PC A had shown interest in Officer Z and had sought his advice about another relationship.

The hearing has now concluded its evidence phase. The panel will deliver its findings at a later date and will also decide whether anonymity for the officers should remain in place.

Hawkes, who is already serving a sentence for sexually abusing a girl under 13, denied the allegations against the boy but was found guilty following a trial.

“Brutal” rape accompanied by threats and violence

Prosecutor Ian Wright told the court that Hawkes subjected the boy to a “brutal” rape and serious sexual assaults, using intimidation, violence and threats to kill him if he ever spoke out.

The abuse of the boy happened shortly after Hawkes had sexually assaulted a young girl — offending for which he received a nine‑year sentence in 2021, made up of eight years in custody and one year on licence.

The court also heard that Hawkes had been released on licence from a previous sentence for sexually assaulting a woman in her 20s shortly before abusing the girl.

Victim endured “mental and psychological torture” for nearly 20 years

Recorder Jonathan Rees KC, who presided over the trial, said the evidence from the male victim was “harrowing”.

> “The brutal rape and serious sexual assaults caused him almost two decades of mental and psychological torture,” he said.  

> “He told the jury how the abuse almost destroyed him — and it is to his credit that it did not.”

Defence: Hawkes “went completely perverse” in mid‑2000s

Defence barrister Colin McCarraher said Hawkes had not committed any sexual offences since the period before the court and described his client as someone who “went completely perverse” during the mid‑2000s.

He said Hawkes’ family had cut ties with him following his convictions, leaving only his grandfather — who died earlier this week — as the sole relative who maintained contact.

McCarraher added that Hawkes had completed every available rehabilitation course in prison and had been an enhanced prisoner for six years.

16‑year sentence imposed — to run after current term

Hawkes was sentenced to 16 years as an offender of particular concern, made up of 15 years in custody and a mandatory one‑year licence period. The sentence will begin after he completes the term he is currently serving.

He will only be eligible to apply for release after serving two‑thirds of the custodial element, and even then, the Parole Board will decide whether he is safe to be released.

Recorder Rees said the combined effect of the sentences imposed since 2021 means Hawkes now faces 24 years in prison, followed by two years on extended licence.

Hawkes will remain on the sex offender register for life and is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order restricting his access to children.

---

Support for Sexual Abuse

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, support is available:

Lifecentre

- 0808 802 0808 (freephone)  

- lifecentre.uk.com  

Support for survivors of rape and sexual abuse, including helplines and counselling.

NAPAC (National Association for People Abused in Childhood)

- 0808 801 0331  

- napac.org.uk  

Helpline and support for adult survivors of childhood abuse.

One in Four

- 0800 121 7114  

- oneinfour.org.uk  

Counselling and advocacy for adults who experienced childhood trauma or abuse.

Safeline

- 0808 800 5005 (Male Survivor Helpline)  

- safeline.org.uk  

Support for adults and young people affected by sexual abuse.

The Survivors Trust

- 0808 8010 818  

- thesurvivorstrust.org  

Directory of specialist local services and ISVA support.

Rape Crisis England & Wales

- 0808 802 9999  

- rapecrisis.org.uk  

Support for women and girls affected by sexual violence.

The aircraft, carrying a pilot and four passengers, went down near Kalalau Beach, a remote stretch of coastline on Kauai’s famous Na Pali Coast — an area known for its dramatic cliffs and popular helicopter sightseeing tours.

Emergency crews were alerted at around 3.45pm, but the rugged terrain and limited access made the rescue operation extremely challenging. Responders were forced to reach the crash site by both air and sea.

Three killed, two survivors rushed to hospital

Kauai Fire Department officials confirmed that three people died at the scene.  

The two survivors were transported to Wilcox Medical Center, though the extent of their injuries has not yet been released.

The helicopter involved in the crash was operated by Airborne Aviation.

Remote coastline complicates rescue efforts

Kalalau Beach sits along one of the most isolated stretches of coastline in Hawaii, accessible only by boat, helicopter or a strenuous hiking trail. The Na Pali Coast is a hotspot for aerial tours, offering views of towering cliffs, hidden beaches and waterfalls.

Multiple agencies responded to the emergency, including:

- Kauai Fire Department  

- Kauai Police Department  

- Kauai Emergency Management Agency  

- US Coast Guard  

- American Medical Response  

- Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources  

Cause of crash still unknown

Investigators have not yet determined what caused the helicopter to go down. Both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been notified and are expected to launch a joint investigation.

Second fatal helicopter incident on Kauai’s coast in recent years

This tragedy follows another deadly crash in July 2024, when a Robinson R44 helicopter operated by Ali‘i Kaua‘i Air Tours & Charters plunged into the ocean near Hanakoa Valley — also along the Na Pali Coast. Three people died in that incident, with two victims initially reported missing before the search was called off days later.

Anyone visiting a Morrisons Café can order a free Kellogg’s Breakfast, which includes a bowl of cereal and a portion of fruit. Customers can choose Corn Flakes or Rice Krispies, served with dairy or non‑dairy milk, plus a free apple or banana.

The initiative runs across England, Scotland and Wales during the Easter break and beyond, helping families manage rising food costs when children are home from school. Morrisons already operates its Kids Eat Free scheme all year round, allowing children to enjoy a free hot meal with any adult meal purchased.

Holiday hunger concerns rising

Research from Kellogg’s and Morrisons shows:

- 1 in 3 parents struggle to feed their children during school holidays  

- The figure rises to 2 in 5 among parents aged 25–34  

- 8 in 10 parents worry about food lasting until their next shop  

- Children aged 5–11 ask for food roughly every two hours during holidays  

- 77% of parents say they spend more on food when school is out  

“We know holidays bring extra pressure”

Matt Khan, Senior Trader for Morrisons Café, said the supermarket wants to support families during a financially difficult time.

> “We know the school holidays can bring extra pressures for families, from food costs to keeping routines in place. We’re here to help by opening our Café spaces up for Breakfast Clubs to give families a chance to enjoy a simple, balanced breakfast together.”

How to get a free Kellogg’s Breakfast

The Breakfast Clubs run across all school holidays, including March 30 to April 19.

To claim the offer, customers simply order a Kellogg’s Breakfast at the till in any Morrisons Café. Each free breakfast includes:

- 1 portion pack of Corn Flakes (24g) or Rice Krispies (22g)  

- 125ml of milk or milk alternative  

- A free apple or banana  

There is a limit of one free breakfast per customer per day.

Chloe Tyrell, who runs Chloe’s Little Treats on Alexandra Road in Gorseinon, woke up in the early hours of Thursday morning to a flood of messages from neighbours and customers alerting her that the shed’s door had been damaged overnight.

The small business, which sells homemade brownies, blondies, cookie bars, cheesecake jars and classic school‑style traybakes, has only been trading for five days — and now faces an unexpected repair bill of around £300.

“I was upset and disheartened”

Chloe said she couldn’t rush to the scene immediately due to caring for her newborn and her severely autistic son, but headed straight down later that morning.

“I’ve only been open five days,” she said. “I woke up to loads of messages from neighbours and customers who had been passing late at night. When I got there, the doors were damaged beyond repair.”

She removed the broken doors herself before heading to B&Q for replacements — an extra cost she hadn’t planned for so soon after launching the business.

“To replace the doors and hinges is about £100, but to redo the whole setup would be over £300,” she explained. “It’s really upsetting. The community has been so positive about the shed, and every time I’ve restocked, it’s sold out. To have this happen so soon is disheartening.”

Business continues despite setback

Determined not to let the vandalism stop her, Chloe continued trading the next day, even leaving the shed temporarily without doors while replacements were being fitted.

She chose not to report the incident to police, saying the CCTV inside the shed didn’t capture the culprit and neighbours’ cameras hadn’t picked up anything useful.

“It would just be a waste of time,” she said.

Appeal for information

Anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area is encouraged to contact the business directly. Chloe’s Little Treats can be found on Facebook.

Officers quickly identified Williams from the footage and arrested him shortly afterwards. He was found carrying items taken from the vehicle.

Williams appeared at Swansea Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty to theft from a motor vehicle and criminal damage. He was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison.

Police: “Zero tolerance for vehicle crime”

PC Luke Morgan said the case showed how seriously the force takes thefts from cars.

> “This demonstrates our zero‑tolerance approach to thefts from motor vehicles,” he said.  

> “Criminals like Williams make the good, law‑abiding people of Swansea fearful that their vehicle could be targeted at any time.”

The rapid turnaround — from offence to arrest to sentencing — has been described as unusually swift.

Residents urged to stay vigilant

Police have reminded Uplands residents to report suspicious behaviour, particularly around parked cars, and to use security measures such as:

- Steering locks  

- Car alarms  

- Removing valuables from view  

Officers say they are continuing to crack down on opportunistic thefts across Swansea, with quick arrests helping to deter repeat offenders and reassure the community.

CCTV and bodycam footage from the incident is now being used to raise awareness about vehicle crime and encourage the public to report suspicious activity promptly.

Jordanna Wheeler repeatedly broke the curfew which was part of her suspended sentence, failed to turn up for multiple appointments, and didn't engage with any help being offered by various agencies.

Activating the suspended sentence, a judge at Swansea Crown Court said custody was the "best place" for the defendant at the present time, especially given "the state" she turned up at court in.

The court heard that in December last year Wheeler was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court to 16 months in prison suspended for 18 months and was ordered to do a rehabilitation course, complete a 120-day alcohol abstinence requirement, and abide by a three-month nightly curfew after admitting causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. The defendant was also disqualified from owning any animal for the next 10 years.

The original sentencing hearing was told that on August 19 last year Wheeler attended Neath Port Talbot Hospital "demanding to be sectioned" due to her mental health issues.

While talking to staff Wheeler disclosed that she had attended a party the previous day and consumed a large amount of alcohol before going home.

She said she then "woke up on the sofa covered in spew" and when she went to look for her dog "I discovered I had battered him to death".

Hospital staff reported the matter to police and when officers went to the defendant's flat in the Penlan area of Swansea they found a large brown Mastiff dog lying unresponsive and clearly dead on its bed in the living room.

The court heard that officers also found a "severely deformed" saucepan with dog hair on it which Wheeler had used to "bludgeon her dog to death". 

Wheeler, 28, now of Beili Glas, Loughor, Swansea, had previously pleaded guilty to breaching the terms of her suspended sentence when she appeared in the dock via videolink. She had been due to be dealt with on Monday but turned up late to court and was remanded into custody.

The court heard the defendant broke her curfew on six occasions during January and February, failed to attend any of her rehabilitation sessions, missed numerous probation appointments without an acceptable reason, and failed to engage with outside agencies offering help.

Alexandra Wilson, on behalf of the Probation Service, said the defendant had shown a "complete disregard" for the order and that the recommendation to the court was that the original custodial sentence be activated. She added that Wheeler had been candid with probation staff that she had left her flat on multiple occasions to go to the pub or the park and take cocaine.

Sarah John, for Wheeler, said it had to be conceded that activation of the original sentence was the likely outcome, and said the defendant's reasons for breaching the curfew - namely that she needed to go outside for a walk - was "not one which would hold much weight with the court".

She said Wheeler had started to engage with probation after breach proceedings were started and she invited the court to reduce the sentence in light of her client's compliance with the alcohol abstinence requirement.

Judge Geraint Walters said where a defendant breached a suspended sentence the court was expected to activate the sentence unless it would be unjust to do so. He said not only would it be not unjust to activate it in the circumstances but it could be said it would be unjust not to activate it.

He added: "Quite frankly, I think you are better off at the moment where you are, not least given the state you arrived in at court on Monday."

Judge Walters activated 12 months of the suspended sentence. The defendant will serve up to half the sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community.

The company, which has been operating since 1995, supplies a wide range of industries — including food processing, industrial, pharmaceutical and medical sectors — with both food‑grade and non‑food polythene products.

Administration halts creditor action while options explored

The administration process temporarily stops creditors from taking action, giving the business time to assess whether restructuring, refinancing or a potential sale is viable.

Reform Polythene specialises in:

- Extrusion, printing and conversion of polythene  

- Food‑grade bags, liners and sheeting  

- Standard and heavy‑duty polythene bags  

- Clear plastic bags and sheeting rolls  

- Tear‑off polythene bag rolls  

- Thin‑film and eco‑friendly products containing 30% recycled consumer waste  

All of the company’s polythene products are fully recyclable.

Three decades of manufacturing heritage

Founded in Derby — a city known for its strong manufacturing base and home to major employers such as Rolls‑Royce, Toyota and Bombardier — Reform Polythene has supplied customers across the UK, Ireland and beyond for more than 30 years.

The future of the business remains uncertain as administrators review its financial position and explore next steps.

Pulse Media has contacted Reform Polythene for comment.

Yvette Cooper’s Iranian counterpart stated that the UK making its military bases available for US use is seen as "participation in aggression". Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi conveyed this message during a telephone call with Cooper, who responded that UK operations in the region are a response to Iran’s own attacks on Gulf nations. She also criticised the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key international shipping route, as the UK ramps up support for its Gulf allies.

Public health expert Irwin Redlener (Columbia University, specialising in disaster preparedness) told Insider that the first 24 hours are the most critical: individuals should shower immediately and stay indoors until further instructions, per the Express. Nuclear science professor Kathryn Higley (Oregon State University) noted that while radiation damage can often be treated with substances like potassium iodide, "there are certain dose levels that you can't do anything about". In a disaster scenario, there may also be a shortage of doctors and hospital beds. Tara Drozdenko (director of the Union of Concerned Scientists' Global Security Programme) added that the US doesn’t have enough burn beds to handle even one nuclear attack on a single city.

Detailed safety steps include: showering quickly with warm water and soap (avoid harsh scrubbing to protect skin’s natural barrier; cover any cuts), skipping lotions, conditioners or hair treatments (which can trap radioactive particles), blowing your nose and wiping ears/eyelids to remove lodged particles. The CDC recommends placing outer clothing, used tissues or cloths in a plastic bag. Sealed container food, fridge or pantry items are safe if containers/cookware are wiped first—never eat food left outside. After these steps, stay indoors for a full 24 hours.

University of Buckinghamshire professor Anthony Glees urges Britons to go underground if a strike occurs: "If you are not obliterated, the safe thing to do is go underground if you possibly can—tube station, cellar, under the stairs—and don't go out for 72 hours." He also criticised the lack of official government guidance for nuclear strikes (unlike for nuclear plant explosions), calling it "fairly disgraceful". He warned that those in central London, near military targets (like Faslane or RAF air bases), high-rise areas or apartment blocks face extreme risks—"the higher you are, the greater the danger"—and advised against heading for the hills.

Military historian Dr Mark Felton stated on his YouTube channel Mark Felton Productions that the UK is "not prepared for any such attacks", highlighting the absence of an Israeli-style Iron Dome defence system or surface-to-air missiles to protect infrastructure or nuclear facilities (per the Express). Prof Glees echoed this concern.

Last week, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard held talks with representatives from 13 major UK defence firms, plus Gulf ambassadors and military chiefs, to explore new industry support for regional partners. This follows the MOD’s announcement that the UK will acquire more Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs)—made by Thales UK in Belfast, already proven in Middle Eastern air defence operations—to equip British forces and support allies, including UK-based training where needed. Discussions focused on potential new protective equipment and technology UK firms could quickly provide to counter Iranian drone and missile attacks. Attendees included major contractors and innovative emerging companies, plus representatives from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Iraq and Jordan.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: "Iran's indiscriminate attacks are a threat to Britain, our allies and our partners in the region. That's why our dedicated Armed Forces are taking defensive action in the Middle East. A nation's Armed Forces are only as strong as the industry that supports them. I'm proud of how our military and industry is stepping up together—just as we are for Ukraine—to offer rapid support to our Gulf partners. This is the best of our British industry, innovators and military in action."

Minister Pollard added: "As Iranian attacks against our partners in the Gulf continue, the UK is stepping up our support—both military and industrial. We are committed to defending British people, interests, and partners across the region. This event showcases a new approach: actively pulling in allies and industry to drive the pace on the defence kit the Middle East needs. We are bringing in British expertise to help our partners, removing barriers, and championing innovative UK-based industry."

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched formal investigations into AutoTrader, Feefo, Dignity, Just Eat, and Pasta Evangelists. According to the CMA, online reviews influence billions of pounds in UK spending every year, making transparency a matter of national economic importance. Research from Which? reinforces this, finding that nearly 9 in 10 people use reviews to research products—making it essential that the information provided is genuine.

The Brands in the Crosshairs

The CMA is currently investigating whether these five businesses have infringed consumer law through several specific practices:

- AutoTrader & Feefo: Investigators are looking into whether a number of 1-star reviews—moderated by Feefo—were suppressed on AutoTrader’s platform and excluded from overall star ratings.

​

- Dignity: The funeral and crematoria provider is being investigated over allegations that it asked staff to write positive reviews, potentially painting an inaccurate picture of customer satisfaction.

​

- Just Eat: The delivery giant is accused of inflating star ratings for certain restaurants and grocers on its app.

​

- Pasta Evangelists: The CMA is examining whether customers were offered discounts on future orders in exchange for leaving 5-star reviews on delivery platforms.

New Legal "Banned Practices"

This crackdown comes as the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCC Act) officially made several review-related actions "banned practices" in April 2025. These are now automatically deemed unfair and illegal, including:

- Posting or obtaining fake reviews.

​

- Paid-for reviews that aren't clearly marked as incentivized.

​

- Manipulating star ratings or hiding negative feedback to mislead customers.

The CMA now holds the power to decide if consumer laws have been broken without going through the courts, and they can impose staggering fines of up to 10% of a company's global turnover.

"The Time to Get it Right is Over"

Sarah Cardell, Chief Executive of the CMA, issued a stern warning to the industry: “Fake reviews strike at the heart of consumer trust. With household budgets under pressure, people need to know they’re getting genuine information—not reviews or star-ratings that have been manipulated. We’ve given businesses the time to get things right. Now we’re deploying our new powers to tackle some of the most harmful practices head-on.”

While the CMA notes it has not yet reached a final conclusion on whether law has been broken, the investigation brings the total number of businesses currently under review to 14.

Pulse Media will continue to track this story as the evidence unfolds. Whether these cases end in massive fines, forced changes in business practice, or case closures, the message to UK brands is clear: the era of the "fake 5-star" is over.

The candidate in question, Corey Edwards—a former Conservative now standing for Reform UK in the Pen-y-Bont Bro Morgannwg constituency—has come under intense scrutiny after an image surfaced showing him mimicking a moustache with one finger while raising his other arm.

While the image is cropped and lacks clear context, it has immediately become a lightning rod for criticism as the May 7 election approaches. Pulse Media has the full breakdown on the party's defiant stance.

Farage: "It looks terrible, but he’s a human being"

Speaking to ITV News, Nigel Farage admitted the photograph "looks terrible" and stated he "wouldn’t approve of it," but he confirmed that Edwards would not be removed from the party's candidate list.

Farage dismissed the gesture as a "Fawlty Towers impression," referring to the famous John Cleese character, Basil Fawlty. "Maybe we should ban the BBC, I don't know," Farage quipped, before adding: "No [he won't be kicked out]. He's a human being. Things in isolation often do look bad."

The Candidate’s Defense

In a statement to the press, Corey Edwards claimed the photo was from "many years ago" and was an attempt to parody both Basil Fawlty and Welsh footballer Wayne Hennessey, who was involved in a similar salute controversy in 2019 (a charge that was eventually found "not proven").

"I recognise it looks bad and could be misinterpreted," Edwards stated. "The Nazi regime was the most barbaric ever, and I'd never make light of its seriousness. My grandfather fought against the Nazis." He went on to describe himself as a "staunch champion of Judaism" and asked voters to judge him on his current professionalism rather than "mistakes" made as a young man.

A spokesperson for Reform UK Wales echoed this sentiment, telling Pulse Media: “We’re not willing to write people off forever because of mistakes they made when they were young.”

Political Backlash in Wales

The revelation has drawn a blistering response from political rivals. A Plaid Cymru spokesperson called the situation "utterly disgraceful," suggesting it highlights a "clear pattern" in the calibre of candidates Reform UK is selecting.

"This photo confirms they aren't fit to be anywhere near power here in Wales," the spokesperson said. "Reform has serious questions to answer regarding their vetting process across the UK."

The controversy lands just 24 hours after Reform UK published its full list of candidates for the upcoming election. Edwards, who previously worked for former Welsh Secretary David TC Davies, reportedly had the image circulating within Conservative circles for over six years before it was made public by Nation.Cymru.

The Pulse Media Take

With polls suggesting the Welsh election is becoming a head-to-head battle between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK, this latest scandal puts Farage’s "no-apology" leadership style to the test. Will voters accept the "Fawlty Towers" defense, or will this be the breaking point for Reform's momentum in Wales?

Leave your comments below

In a deeply moving installment, Stacey Solomon and her team stepped in to help dads Craig and Craig declutter their three-bedroom semi-detached home. The couple, who adopted their five-year-old daughter, El, were struggling to let go of the past, with one of the fathers admitted to holding onto every single item their daughter had ever owned.

However, it wasn't the mountain of toys that caught the team’s attention—it was a small, carefully curated "memory corner" that hit home for Dilly.

A Personal Connection

While sorting through the family’s belongings in the warehouse, Dilly discovered a folder titled All About El. For Dilly, who was adopted herself at the age of three, the discovery was instantly personal.

“Oh my gosh, I don’t think I can read it,” Dilly admitted, her voice breaking as she leafed through the pages. “This is so nice.”

The folder contained a beautiful explanation of adoption designed for a child: "Adoption means belonging to and growing up with a new adoptive family... Like millions of other children all over the world, you are adopted. This is because your daddies have adopted you."

“So Grateful for People Like You”

The emotional weight of the moment peaked as Dilly read a section introducing El to famous figures who were also adopted—including Superman and Paddington Bear. Overcome with emotion, Dilly apologized to the parents for her tears before embracing Craig.

“I’m so grateful for people like you,” Dilly told the couple. “What you’re doing is so amazing.”

The moment wasn't just a hit on set; it resonated deeply with the Pulse Media audience and viewers across the UK. Taking to social media, Dilly herself confessed: “I can't even re-watch this without sobbing.”

Viewers React

Fans were quick to flood the comments with support for the "wonderful daddies" and Dilly. One viewer noted, “This had me crying! What great people,” while another added, “It was such a beautiful moment. We all love Dilly.”

At Pulse Media, we love a good home makeover, but it’s these raw, human moments that remind us why we hold onto things in the first place—and how powerful it is to finally let them go.

Catch the full episode of Sort Your Life Out on BBC iPlayer now.

The controversy began when Toshack's son, Cameron, told the Daily Mail that his father had received a formal dementia diagnosis and faced a "daily struggle" with his memory. However, the elder Toshack hit back during an interview with the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, stating with a wry smile: "Demented? Not yet."

A Family Divided

Toshack’s wife, Mai Angulo, revealed the devastating impact the public claims have had on the veteran coach. She described a heartbreaking scene, noting that the Welsh legend "fell asleep at two in the morning crying" because of the distress caused by his son's statements.

Mai also cast serious doubt on the accuracy of Cameron's information, claiming that the father and son have not seen each other in two years, despite Cameron’s assertions that they speak almost daily.

Health Battles and Memory

While Toshack admitted to some lapses in short-term memory, he attributed these issues to a life-threatening battle with COVID-19 and pneumonia in 2022, which left him in a Barcelona ICU for 16 days.

- Sharp Recall: Toshack insisted he remains sharp regarding his storied career, joking: "I’ve forgotten all the goals I’ve missed, but I remember perfectly the ones I’ve scored."

​

- Recovery: He credits his past as an athlete for surviving the severe illness that once left him in a wheelchair.

Legacy of the "Volcano"

Known as the "Volcano" of Welsh football, Toshack remains one of the most decorated figures in the sport.

- Player: Scored 96 goals for Liverpool, forming a legendary partnership with Kevin Keegan.

​

- Manager: Led Real Madrid to a La Liga title and managed the Wales national team across two different spells.

Toshack now lives a quiet life in Girona, Spain, surrounded by his five dogs. Despite the physical toll of his recent health scares, he maintains the "spark" that defined his career, telling reporters: "I'm no spring chicken anymore," but insisting he is far from the diagnosis his son claimed.

The incident occurred on the slopes of Moel Famau during a multi-agency operation to save County Councillor Huw Williams, who had been crushed by his quad bike after it struck a rabbit hole. While the Wales Air Ambulance and mountain rescue teams were on the scene, it was the council's brand-new "green" flagship that became the center of a terrifying secondary drama.

"The Paramedics Decided to Walk!"

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the Munro 4x4 attempted to navigate the hilly terrain. Fellow councillor Merfyn Parry, who was at the scene, recounted the moment the vehicle lost control:

"The driver veered up a bank as if to slow it down... It continued downhill, knocking over a post and running into a wooden fence some 75 metres down the slope," Parry told Pulse Media. The situation was so alarming that the two ambulance staff on board opted to exit the vehicle and finish the journey to the casualty on foot.

"I've contacted council officers asking if the vehicle is fit for purpose," Parry added. "This could have ended up with two ambulance crew in hospital."

The "Unstoppable" Electric 4x4?

The Munro M280 was a point of pride for Denbighshire Council when it was unveiled last August. As the first electric 4x4 of its kind in the UK, it was specifically chosen for its supposed ability to tackle 40-degree gradients and harsh off-road conditions at Loggerheads County Park.

However, this real-world test has raised serious questions. While the manufacturer, Munro Vehicles, stated they are "not aware of any malfunction," the council has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash.

The Rescue Outcome

Despite the vehicle mishap, the primary rescue was a success. Huw Williams was transported to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, where he was treated for two fractured vertebrae. Fortunately, he is now on the mend.

A spokesperson for Denbighshire Council confirmed that no one was injured in the 4x4 incident but stayed tight-lipped on the details: "We have launched an investigation and we do not know the cause at this time."

Pulse Media will continue to investigate whether this £80k investment is truly "mountain-ready" or if the council’s push for a zero-carbon fleet has hit a very expensive roadblock.

In 2020, 15-year-old Jessica and her 13-year-old cousin, Mikey, were killed when their parasailing rope snapped during a sudden storm, sending them plummeting onto the rocks below. Jessica’s brother, James, miraculously survived the fall but spent weeks in a coma. Today, Tony stood on that same shoreline to place two white roses in the sand, just hours before the boat operator, Nikos Mallios, was set to face criminal prosecution at the Rhodes Courthouse.

The memories of that final afternoon remain razor-sharp. Tony recalls the family gathering on the beach, the laughter, and the "last dad duties" he performed—giving the children a cuddle and waving them off with three simple words: "We love you." He never saw them alive again.

The case against Mallios centers on a series of alleged, fatal safety violations. Prosecutors argue that the operator ignored weather warnings, ventured outside designated zones, and conducted a "triple-seat" ride that is strictly prohibited—especially with children as young as 13. Perhaps most agonizing for the family is the fact that, despite the ongoing investigation, Mallios has been allowed to continue running his parasailing business in the very same location.

For Tony, this trial is about more than just a verdict; it is about the heavy burden of "what ifs" and the guilt he carries for letting them board the boat. He hopes a prison sentence will finally allow him to stop mourning the way Jessica died and start remembering the way she lived.

"This feels like the last thing I have been able to do for Jessica," Tony said. "I've felt like I'm still able to do something as her dad. When this is over, I won't have any more dad duties."

The 20-year-old also pleaded guilty to two counts of making indecent images in relation to the same person. Both offences happened in May, 2025.

Mold Crown Court heard he also admitted raping the second victim in June of the same year. He was sent to prison for 10 years, with an extra two years on licence. 

In each case, the victims, who cannot be named, were asleep when the attacks were carried out in the Flintshire area, said Karl Scholz, prosecuting

Dobandi entered his victim's home at night while she slept before carrying out the rape, the court heard

Dobandi was next to the victim in bed when she woke to find herself partly undressed. Police were called. Dobandi's phone was then examined by police.

In a victim impact statement the first teenager said the offences had made her feel "anxious and shocked" and hard for her to trust anyone.

She said she found it hard sleeping and being in the house without anyone there.

The second victim said she "slept and cried" when the investigation started and "wanted to be left alone".

She found it difficult to eat and "couldn't keep her mind straight and was trying to work out what had happened".

Defending Dobandi, Gareth Bellis said his client had pleaded guilty at an early stage and was aged 19 at the time of the offences. He requested a sentence as short as possible.

The crimes were branded "totally depraved behaviour" by Judge Rhys Rowlands. He said the defendant was assessed as a "high risk" of reoffending, had shown "arrogance", with little "understanding or remorse" for what he had done to the two young women.

"They were either comatose or asleep," the judge said.

Dobandi was a "dangerous offender", added the judge, as he gave him an extended sentence of 10 years in custody, with an extra two years on licence. He must serve two thirds, before he can be considered for release from prison.

The court ordered he must also register as a sex offender and was made the subject of a sexual harm prevention order - both indefinitely.

Dobandi was also given a 10 year restraining order preventing him from contacting the two victims. He must also pay a statutory surcharge.

Investigating police officer, Detective Constable Guto Hughes, said following the hearing: "Dobandi has proved himself to be a predator who is a danger to women. There is no doubt these horrific offences will likely impact his victims forever.

"I commend their courage for speaking out and reporting his crimes, which has led to his conviction today, and prevented him from committing further sexual offences.

"Tackling violence against women and girls remains a foremost priority for North Wales Police. We are committed to identifying perpetrators, pursuing justice, and ensuring that victims receive the protection and support they need.

"We will continue to work tirelessly to hold offenders to account and to keep our communities safe."

His victim said she was alerted to the grisly scene after hearing a terrified woman screaming. When she saw Rogers' terrified partner with blood on her face, she called police. Yet as she dialled 999, the wicked thug punched her before cracking her skull with a hammer.

She told the court she thought she was "going to die" in the brutal attack and was "screaming for my life", 

As Rogers was jailed for nine years and branded dangerous, she told how the attack in Sunderland has left her traumatised and scarred.

In a victim impact statement which she read in court, the woman said: "I went to help her because I heard her screaming. I was acting as a Good Samaritan and I never thought by helping her I would be in danger.

"I was viciously attacked and I thought I was going to die. I ended up being taken to hospital by ambulance with serious injuries to my head. (A child) saw me being attacked with a hammer, being hit repeatedly in the head and screaming for my life."

She added that she now has tinnitus, suffers daily constant headaches, has PTSD, some of her scars are visible due to hair loss in those areas and she is anxious and conscious about that.

She told the court: "I think about this attack and how it's affected me every day and I have flashbacks. This has not only impacted me but my family. My mam thought she was going to lose her child.

"I can't live my life like I did before the attack. Every day I look in the mirror and see the scars, the scars I got for being a Good Samaritan.

"I didn't do anything to the girl but try to help her. I did nothing to the man who attacked me, I don't know why he attacked me.

"He was so calm while hitting me numerous times with the hammer. I never thought by helping someone I could end up being the victim of a serious assault."

The court heard Rogers had been in a relationship with the first victim for around a year. On Saturday, September 27 last year, having called at a pub, when they got home, she said he "seemed a bit off" with her, as if he wanted an argument. He went into the kitchen and the woman heard a smash and saw a bowl had been broken on the floor and Rogers was angry.

She removed items, including her father's motorbike helmet, and took them to the bathroom, fearing he would cause further damage. Rogers followed her and punched her to the face and side, then hit the helmet with a hammer on a number of occasions before taking her phone and hitting that with a hammer, smashing it.

The court heard the victim was terrified, crying and screaming as he waved the hammer towards her then used it to smash a TV. The woman ran to the front door but couldn't get it open and Rogers pinned her against a wall using his forearm across her throat with so much force she couldn't breathe properly and felt that if she moved, her neck would crack.

She screamed for help, but Rogers put his hand over her mouth to stop her. The woman then seized an opportunity to run out of the house, but he followed her, and there was a tussle in the street.

The second victim then walked out of a bake lane and asked what was going on. Rogers' partner, who had blood on her face, asked her to call police and she did so.

Andrew Walker, prosecuting, said: "While she was on the phone to the police, the defendant punched her to the face, causing her to stumble. She then saw him go to a nearby house and he emerged carrying a hammer.

"He then approached her and hit her about four times to the head with the hammer."

The woman was taken to hospital by ambulance and was found to have an open depressed fracture to the right side of her skull along with a number of lacerations to her head caused by the hammer.

Rogers, then went on to smash his then-partner's car window and windscreen with the hammer, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent, strangulation, battery, two counts of criminal damage and possessing an offensive weapon.

The court heard the 49-year-old has 25 previous convictions, including for wounding with intent in 2005 and wounding in 2019.

Recorder David Brooke KC jailed him for nine years, with an extended licence period of a further four years due to him being dangerous. He told Rogers he is "high risk" and said: "These are very bad offences indeed and they are set against a background of an appalling record for violence. This was a disgraceful incident.

"I hope you are thoroughly ashamed of yourself. She went merely to help someone who was in distress and you responded by attacking her in a horrible way, striking her four times to the head, causing a depressed fracture to her skull."

Christopher Morrison, defending, said Rogers is "extremely sorry and remorseful", apologises for his actions and has mental health issues.

The con lasted for over four years, where Kingsley hooked in male victims tricking them into relationships with her. She lied, claiming she was set to inherit a large fortune, then using this revelation to convince them to spend huge sums of money on her behalf, including on a planned wedding.

On other occasions, she stole or used false bank card details to pay thousands of pounds for hotel stays, according to Manchester Evening News. At Swindon Crown Court on February 5, Kingsley pleaded guilty to six counts of theft, four counts of fraud by false representation, two counts of using a false instrument with intent that it will be accepted as genuine, and one count of being in possession of an article for use in fraud.

Wiltshire Police said that in 2019, the force received a report that Kingsley, of Beadnell, Northumberland, had fraudulently used the bank details of her mother’s friend to pay for a stay at Cromhall Farm in Chippenham. An investigation was launched with assistance from other forces.

Detectives found that between January 2016 and January 2018 Kingsley was in a relationship with the victim, during which she alleged she was due to receive a multi-million-pound inheritance, even displaying forged letters from professionals as proof.

Court documents reveal she told the victim she was inheriting a "total inheritance fund" of £42 million from her grandfather and added that a solicitor had said she would be receiving £16 million. As a result, the victim spent tens of thousands of pounds on furniture for a new home, dental bills, her debts and a payment for a wedding.

The grand event did not take place on the assumption he would soon be reimbursed through the inheritance. She also repeatedly used his bank cards to steal money and opened a betting account in his name, through which she lost thousands of pounds.

This victim "lost in excess of £100,000" after falling for her lies, the documents show. Following the breakdown of this relationship in 2018, Kingsley started a relationship with another victim the following year.

Again she lied claiming she believing she was about to inherit a large fortune. Following this he assisted her with significant deposits for a Land Rover and a Porsche, as well as expensive hotel stays for which they had no means to pay.

The victim also incurred a large debt through her use of his bank cards. In two further brief relationships in the autumn of 2019, Kingsley again repeatedly used the victims’ personal and company bank cards to make purchases without their knowledge.

Police also found that Kingsley had committed theft and fraud against numerous other victims, including solicitor’s firms, lawyers and a bank, by falsifying documents and letters. Kingsley was later charged with various offences but failed to attend to court.

In June last year, she was arrested on the Isle of Skye after being spotted speeding.

Detective Constable Melissa Pope, from Wiltshire Police’s fraud team, said: "Kingsley wove a web of lies with her victims, causing significant emotional anxiety and long-term mental and financial harm. She manipulated their emotions, assuring them that through her future inheritance she would be able to repay the considerable sums of money that they were spending on her behalf."

DC Pope continued: "For one of the victims, an expensive wedding which had been planned, for which the victim’s relatives had booked to come from Australia, was cancelled at short notice.

"Following the launch of our investigation, Kingsley delayed the court process, denying what she had done until the final moment before a trial would be arranged. She lied continuously through the investigation, giving false statements and communicating various health issues as to why she shouldn’t face charges.

"I’m pleased she has finally admitted the romance fraud charges against her, as well as a number of other fraud and theft offences relating to other victims."

She added: "I hope that her victims can now start to move on from this traumatic experience. It is a huge breach of trust and self-esteem which can take years to recover from."

A Small Space with Big Ambition

Faced with the staggering costs of traditional London real estate, Benedettini spotted an opportunity in the disused kiosks. Recognizing that renting these iconic structures was far more viable than a standard storefront, he invested £1,000 into a DIY renovation.

By August 2020, the 18-square-foot operation was open for business. While the space was too small for a full kitchen to produce pizza or pasta, it was the perfect size for specialty tiramisu. Today, Walkmisu serves four varieties—including pistachio and Biscoff—priced at £6.95, sticking to a traditional alcohol-free recipe that sets it apart from competitors.

Scaling Through Intelligence

While the storefront is vintage, the back-end operation is cutting-edge. Benedettini credits much of his operational success to Artificial Intelligence (AI), describing the technology as a "gamechanger" that saves him hours of administrative labor.

He isn't alone in this digital shift. New research from Accio Work (Alibaba’s AI agent for small businesses) reveals that 40% of SMEs have already adopted AI to handle the increasing complexity of modern commerce. With 12% of business owners feeling they are doing the work of an entire team solo, AI is becoming an essential "digital employee" for:

- Automating marketing and sourcing

​

- Managing complex VAT and tax filings

​

- Negotiating with international suppliers

Overcoming the "Hated Tasks"

For Benedettini, the most frustrating aspect of the job is managing international suppliers and fluctuating prices. "Managing international suppliers can be really stressful," he notes. "They are always changing things, and the prices are always increasing."

To combat these hurdles, he plans to further integrate "agentic AI" into his business model. These autonomous agents can forecast demand and manage supplier communications, allowing him to focus on the creative side of the brand.

The Future is Fragile and Fast

What started as a creative solution to high rent has evolved into a scalable franchise model. With an online shop offering nationwide delivery and click-and-collect services, Walkmisu is proof that physical size doesn’t limit market reach.

As a spokesperson for Accio Work noted, Daniele’s success highlights how talented entrepreneurs can use a "customizable fleet of AI agents" to digitize and scale. For this Roman expat, the future of the British phone box isn't just about heritage—it's about high-tech hospitality.

Morgan’s story united communities, sports stars and public figures in grief and admiration. Today, his legacy lives on through the charity set up by his family — supporting children with cancer and helping parents navigate the darkest moments of their lives.

On April 12, that legacy becomes the heartbeat of Gorseinon.

More than 800 runners are expected to take part, but organisers say the day is about far more than miles or medals.

> “This event means everything to us,” said Morgan’s mum and charity founder, Natalie Ridler.  

> “It’s about remembering Morgan and other children taken too soon… and showing families they are not alone.”

The event has become one of the most emotional and unifying days in the local calendar — filled with tributes, moments of reflection and a community determined to stand together.

Running for a Cause That Matters

Every pound raised will help Morgan’s Army continue its vital work — offering emotional, practical and financial support to families facing childhood cancer. Funds will also help Tŷ Hafan, which provides essential care for children with life‑limiting conditions.

A Growing Community Event

The Gorseinon 10K has rapidly evolved into a major local highlight. Alongside the main race, the 2K Fun Run opens the day to children, families and runners of all abilities — ensuring everyone can be part of something meaningful.

Expect a buzzing race village, a huge turnout and a wave of colour and emotion sweeping through the town.

Backed by headline sponsor Brisco Williams and supported by partners including Sinclair Group UK, the event is a testament to what community spirit can achieve when people come together.

Every Step Is for Morgan

At the heart of it all is one message:  

Every runner, every cheer and every finish line crossed is for Morgan — and for the families still fighting the battle he never got to finish.

The Gorseinon 10K & 2K Fun Run takes place April 12, with entries filling fast.

Swansea’s iconic seafront is gearing up for a lively season as several much‑loved, council‑run attractions officially reopen this Friday, March 27.

Families heading to the prom can expect the full line‑up: the Swansea Bay Rider land train, colourful crazy golf courses, and the ever‑popular pedalos at Singleton Boating Lake — all returning to action as the city shakes off winter and steps into brighter days.

🚂 Swansea Bay Rider Back on Track

The Bay Rider will once again be rolling along the seafront, offering visitors a scenic coastal trip with stunning views across the bay. It’s fully accessible and even welcomes dogs on leads, making it a perfect option for family days out.

⛳ Crazy Golf & Family Fun

Both the Singleton Park and Southend Gardens courses are reopening, giving budding golfers the chance to take on vibrant, quirky layouts that have become a staple of Swansea’s outdoor entertainment.

🦢 Pedalos Return to Singleton Lake

Kids (and adults who refuse to grow up) can take to the water in a fleet of themed pedalos — from dragons and swans to unicorns — bringing a splash of colour back to the boating lake.

🛠️ Ready for a Big Season

Council teams have spent recent weeks preparing the attractions for what’s expected to be a busy spring and summer.

Cllr Elliott King said the city is ready to welcome visitors back:  

“As the days get brighter and warmer, our attractions are getting ready to welcome visitors for another fantastic season. If you’re planning a day out for the family, look no further than Swansea Prom.”

🕙 Opening Times

All attractions will run daily from 10am to 5pm throughout the Easter holidays, up to April 12.  

After that, they’ll switch to weekend openings, with daily sessions during school holidays.  

Blackpill Lido is also set to reopen in May.

Full details on opening times and prices are available online.

Under the proposals, the price of an online adult passport would rise from £94.50 to £102, while children’s applications would increase from £61.50 to £66.50. Postal applications would see even steeper charges, climbing to £115.50 for adults and £80 for children.

The changes are scheduled to take effect on 8 April, pending parliamentary approval. The SNP has confirmed it will vote against the measures. The Home Office says the increase is intended to reduce the system’s reliance on general taxpayers.

Research commissioned by the SNP from the House of Commons Library highlights the scale of long‑term price rises. Since 1997, the cost of a standard adult passport by post has increased by 542%, rising from £18 to £115.50. Children’s passports have risen by 627% since 1999, from £11 to £80. Over the same period, average wages have grown by 144%.

According to the research, if passport fees had risen in line with inflation, an adult passport would cost £33.36 today, while a child’s would be £21.60. The SNP argues the new increases could leave a family of four paying up to £391 for two adult and two children’s passports — roughly equivalent to a week’s wages for someone on minimum pay.

Pete Wishart, SNP MP for Perth and Kinross‑shire, said the proposed rise would place further pressure on households already dealing with higher bills and rising prices.

“Families are struggling with increased energy costs, rising food and fuel prices, and higher mortgage rates,” he said. “Adding another significant increase to passport fees will only make it harder for people to afford holidays or travel to major events such as this summer’s World Cup.”

The UK Government has been contacted for comment.

The two sides meet at Wembley in the first major final of the season, with Arsenal booking their place after overcoming Chelsea in the semis, while Manchester City saw off 2025 champions Newcastle to reach Sunday’s showpiece.

But roughly an hour before kick‑off, ITV viewers were left confused as the channel suffered a technical fault that wiped all sound from its coverage. With the issue unresolved, ITV were forced to lean on Sky Sports’ pre‑match feed for both their TV broadcast and their ITVX live stream.

Sky presenter Mark Chapman and Arsenal icon Ian Wright were fronting the build‑up — but on ITV’s platforms, their analysis was completely silent.

As the problem persisted, ITV issued an on‑screen apology to viewers, acknowledging the disruption less than an hour before the teams walked out at Wembley.

> “We apologise for the audio disruption,” the message read.

Fans quickly took to social media to vent their frustration — and, in some cases, poke fun at the situation.

One viewer wrote: “Interesting choice from ITV to broadcast the League Cup final with no sound.”  

Another added: “Really excited for Arsenal vs Man City… shame ITV forgot to check the audio.”  

A third joked: “No commentary today lads — subtitles only.”  

And a fourth quipped: “If Gary Neville was on commentary, I’d be fine with ITV leaving it muted.”

ITV and Sky are sharing broadcast duties for this year’s competition, with both networks scheduled to show the final live from Wembley — audio issues permitting.

The Stradey Park Hotel in Llanelli first made headlines in May 2023 when it announced it would cease operating as a traditional hotel and instead accommodate around 240 asylum seekers under a Home Office arrangement. The proposal sparked sustained protests outside the site, a well-known spa and wedding venue, before the plans were formally withdrawn in October 2023.

The hotel reopened in 2024 under new ownership, with assurances that efforts would be made to rebuild its reputation within the local community following the fallout.

Ownership had transferred to Ullcom Limited, a Hounslow-based company, which acquired a majority stake from the previous operators, Sterling Woodrow Investments and Gryphon Leisure Limited.

However, earlier this month the hotel closed once again, this time without any formal announcement. The shutdown appears to have been sudden, with no prior communication issued to staff or customers. Weeks later, there has still been no official statement released via the hotel’s website or social media channels.

While the hotel’s website remains active, bookings are currently unavailable, with dates inaccessible to users. Gift vouchers, including those for dining experiences, continue to be advertised, further compounding confusion.

Attempts to obtain clarification from those connected to the hotel have proved unsuccessful. The Home Office has confirmed it is not in discussions regarding the use of the site for asylum accommodation, either currently or in the future.

Customers affected by the closure have described difficulties in obtaining both information and refunds.

One local resident, who had booked a family celebration at the hotel for the end of March, said he paid £900 in total for an event package that included catering, entertainment, and accommodation.

“I received no communication from the hotel,” he said. “I only became aware of the closure through a post on Facebook.

“Repeated attempts to contact the hotel were unsuccessful, and when I visited the premises, I was told the manager was unavailable. I’ve since had to make alternative arrangements.”

A woman from Carmarthen, who had secured the venue for her wedding in 2027 and paid a £500 deposit, reported a similar experience.

“Initially, I thought the reports online were incorrect,” she said. “When I contacted the hotel, a staff member told me they had only just been informed of the immediate closure and were unclear about their own situation.

“I was assured someone would follow up regarding our booking and a refund, but I have not received any further communication.”

Another customer, who booked accommodation via a third-party platform, said he has encountered difficulties obtaining a refund, as confirmation of the closure is required directly from the hotel.

The situation is further complicated by legal developments involving Gryphon Leisure Limited, the hotel’s former owner, which is now subject to a High Court winding-up petition.

Company records indicate that Ullcom Limited, which took a majority stake in 2024, shares a director — Ahsan Ullah — with Gryphon Leisure Limited. Mr Ullah is also associated with several other companies registered at the same Hounslow address.

Separately, a company listed as “Stradey Park Hotel #77 SAPL LTD” is registered with a correspondence address in Singapore and incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. Mr Ullah is not listed as being connected to this entity.

In a brief video statement issued shortly after the closure, Mr Ullah said: “This is an ongoing matter, and it would not be appropriate to provide further details at this stage.

“I recognise the significant impact this has had on staff and customers, and I am doing everything within my capacity to safeguard the long-term future of the hotel.”

No further updates have been issued since.

Mr Ullah has responded to some queries on X, directing affected individuals to contact an email address. However, several customers have stated they are still awaiting responses and refunds.

The Carmarthen bride added: “I was asked to send my details via email, which I did, but I’ve received no reply.

“Many people are in similar situations involving weddings, events, and other bookings. Even if the hotel were to reopen, we would not consider using it again.”

Pulse Media has made repeated attempts to contact Stradey Park Hotel, Ullcom Limited, and Mr Ullah via telephone, email, and social media. No responses have been received.

While supporters who pay their hard-earned money have every right to voice frustration after three goal-less home games, a little perspective is needed. If any squad deserves a bit of "latitude by the bundle full," it’s this one.

The "Growing Pains" of a Youth Revolution

This season was always going to be a steep learning curve. Barry-Murphy has tasked a group of teenagers and early twentysomethings with the massive burden of an instant return to the Championship. Inconsistency is the tax you pay for building a future.

Yes, the recent home form against Lincoln, Wycombe, and Blackpool has been a slog. But let’s look at the cold, hard facts: Cardiff are currently sitting pretty.

The Math of Promotion

Despite the recent "blip," the Bluebirds are 11 points clear of Bolton in third. Factor in a vastly superior goal difference, and it’s effectively a 12-point cushion with only seven games left.

Bolton’s run-in is a nightmare—six of their last seven games are against the top ten. For them to catch Cardiff, they’d need a near-miracle while Barry-Murphy’s side would have to suffer a total collapse. Even Bradford, a further point back, would need perfection to bridge the gap. Ironically, despite the negativity in the stands on Saturday, Cardiff’s point actually extended their lead because their rivals both stumbled.

The Bigger Picture

Compare this to the "dead-end" football we witnessed under Erol Bulut and Omer Riza. Back then, the squad was bloated with players in their thirties with zero resale value and no long-term future.

Today, we are watching a journey. The ceiling for talents like Yousef Salech, Alex Robertson, and Will Fish is miles away. These are players who aren't just here to get us out of this league—they are the foundation for the next one.

History Repeats Itself

If you think promotions are supposed to be a victory lap, you haven't been watching Cardiff City long enough:

- Neil Warnock (2018): Took only 11 points from the final 24 available.

​

- Malky Mackay (2013): Won only three of the final 13 games.

​

- Lennie Lawrence (2003): Won only four of the last 12 and suffered heavy home losses to teams like Colchester.

Crucially, Barry-Murphy’s "Class of 2026" is in a much stronger position than Lennie’s play-off winners ever were. They’ve built up "oceans of credit in the bank" with 14 wins from their first 17 home games.

The Verdict

The goals will return, especially with Salech coming back into the fold. These young players will learn more from these difficult, "turgid" afternoons than they will from the 4-0 away wins at Exeter and Doncaster.

My firm belief? This team finishes the job and goes up automatically. When that happens, the boos will be a distant memory, replaced by the roar of a fan base that finally has a team to grow with.

Do you think the fans were right to boo, or is the pressure on such a young squad unfair?

It was late September 1990, a time of year when summer quietly gives way to autumn. The air was cooler, daylight hours shorter, but one thing hadn’t changed at Nantycaws landfill — the ever-present smell that drifted along the nearby A48.

For decades, the site had served as a final destination for the county’s waste. Like many landfill sites of its time, it was largely unremarkable — until one lunchtime changed everything.

A worker, taking a break from his machinery, noticed something unusual among the piles of rubbish. At first glance, it seemed out of place. As he moved closer, the reality became horrifyingly clear.

It was part of a human leg — belonging to a baby.

The man, a machine operator at the site, was no stranger to the unusual sights that often turned up in landfill during that era. Before strict recycling regulations, almost anything could end up there. But this was different.

Shaken, he carefully moved the limb aside to prevent it being disturbed further and immediately alerted authorities.

Police quickly descended on the site, sealing off the area and launching an extensive search. For days, officers combed through tonnes of waste, hoping to find more remains or clues that could explain the grim discovery.

The limb was later identified as the left leg of a baby girl, only a few months old. It appeared to have been cleanly severed at the thigh with a sharp instrument, raising troubling questions about what had happened.

Investigators worked tirelessly to trace the origin of the waste, examining delivery records and questioning drivers. They considered every possibility — from medical waste mishandling to foul play.

Health officials ruled out the idea that the limb had come from a hospital, deepening the mystery. Rumours began to circulate locally, ranging from tragic accidents to more sinister theories, though many were dismissed by police.

As the investigation continued, one key question remained unanswered: had the child died before the limb was removed, or was something far more disturbing at play?

Despite a nationwide appeal for information and cooperation from police forces and social services across the UK, no further remains were ever found. No missing child was definitively linked to the case.

Weeks of searching and forensic analysis led to no clear conclusion. Eventually, the case went cold.

More than three decades later, the events at Nantycaws remain unresolved — a chilling chapter in Carmarthenshire’s history that has largely faded from public memory.

Yet cases like this are not as rare as many might think. Across the UK, hundreds of unidentified remains and body parts are still under investigation, some dating back decades.

The questions raised in 1990 still linger today. Who was the baby? How did she end up there? And perhaps most hauntingly — is it possible the story behind that discovery has never truly been uncovered?

After all these years, the answers may still lie with someone, somewhere.

The incident, shared online, quickly sparked debate after the driver said the sticker — positioned behind the rear-view mirror and barely visible — was enough to result in an instant failure.

But while it may sound harsh, experts say the tester was simply following the rules.

Under current MOT regulations, visibility through the windscreen is a key safety check. The area covered by the wipers is divided into zones, and anything that obstructs the driver’s view — including stickers, permits, dashcams or phone holders — can lead to a fail if it’s deemed too large or poorly positioned.

In this case, the sticker was located within the wiper-swept area. After removing it in the test centre car park, the vehicle was reportedly reassessed and passed shortly afterwards.

Motoring experts say it’s a rule that often catches drivers off guard.

A spokesperson for Indigo Car Hire said many motorists wrongly assume small items on the windscreen won’t matter, particularly if they’re out of direct sight behind the mirror.

However, MOT testers are required to apply strict visibility guidelines, and anything considered an obstruction — no matter how minor it seems — must be marked as a failure.

The sticker incident highlights just how easily drivers can be tripped up on test day.

Other common but unexpected MOT failures include empty windscreen washer bottles, which must be able to clean the glass effectively, as well as illuminated dashboard warning lights such as engine, ABS or airbag alerts — all of which can trigger an automatic fail.

While many of these issues are quick fixes, they continue to catch out thousands of motorists every year.

With more than 30 million MOT tests carried out annually across the UK, drivers are being reminded that even the smallest detail could be the difference between a pass and an unexpected trip back to the garage.

Khoresh Ameni, 19, armed himself with the weapon on December 7 last year and became involved in an incident outside the Ibis hotel in Churchill Way. The police were called and CCTV was viewed which showed the defendant waving the machete at four people.

A sentencing hearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Thursday heard Ameni was later arrested and was found in possession of a cannabis joint. 

The footage revealed some of the other men involved in the incident were also armed.

The defendant was taken to Cardiff Bay police station and was interviewed but he answered "no comment" to all questions.

Ameni, of Churchill Way, later pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article and possession of a class B drug.

The court heard he has one previous conviction for offences including section 18 wounding and possession of a bladed article.

Prosecutor Ben Jones said the defendant was sentenced to a detention and training order for 20 months, which he is now in breach of.

In mitigation, Kevin Seal said his client had been unable to work due to his immigration status and had become alienated from his family, but he is hoping to move to the Midlands to stay with an uncle.

The defence barrister said Ameni suffered trauma during his childhood, which left him unable to cope with day to day life and resorting to violence when facing conflict.

Sentencing, Recorder Paul Lewis KC said: "The way you're going, you are going to face longer and longer and longer periods of custody.

"Your behaviour at the moment poses a risk of violence in the future. It's in your hands if you continue down that path or not."

Ameni was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.

South Wales Police said its firearms officers were sent to the scene shortly before 1.30pm to reports of threats made towards a person in the building.

A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of making a false report. 

A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: "Officers were called to the Princess of Wales hospital at 1.20pm on Thursday (March 19) to reports of threats made towards a person in the building.

"Firearms officers attended and, following enquiries, a man aged 23 has been arrested on suspicion of making a false report."

A spokesperson Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board confirmed that the hospital is back open and operating as normal.

The UK steel industry, which has been calling on the government to shield it from cheaper steel made abroad, welcomed the measures.

The UK Government says it will protect domestic steelmaking and build more resilience in the supply chain for critical national infrastructure and defence.

On a visit to Tata Steel Port Talbot to meet steelworkers and launch the strategy UK business secretary Peter Kyle announced a target to boost domestic production.

From July 1, 2026, overall quota levels for steel imports will be significantly reduced. It will apply to imported steel products only where they can be made domestically. 

Business and trade secretary Mr Kyle said: "Making steel in the UK is vital for national security, critical infrastructure and the wider economy. Steel-making is a cornerstone of our modern industrial policy that deliberately focuses support for key industries, technologies, and strategically important sectors.

"With this strategy we are closing the decades-long chapter of destructive de-industrialisation and committing instead to strengthening and sustaining Britain as a steel-making nation.”

First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said: “Steel has a long and proud history here in Wales where the industry is the lifeblood of many communities.

“The publication of the UK Government’s steel strategy is good news for our steel communities and the thousands of people across Wales who work in or around the industry now and in the future.

“The commitment for 50% of steel used in the UK to be made here is important not just for steelworkers but to the Welsh economy as a whole. The strategy also re-affirms the transition to electric arc steel production in the UK where Port Talbot is leading the way not just in the UK but across Europe. It was great to be able to meet the Tata management and unions again and to see the progress that has been made in building the new electric arc steel plant.

“The Welsh Government has fought tirelessly for a good future for steel at Port Talbot, Llanwern, Shotton, and tinplate at Trostre, Llanelli.”

The new strategy also:

• confirms electric arc furnaces (EAF) as the future of British steelmaking, continuing the shift from blast furnaces to cleaner EAF-based production using recycled scrap to support net zero;

• enables offshore wind developers to include steel manufacturers in the next round of clean industry bonus applications (to maximise UK steel use in renewables;

• launches a cross-government working group to secure a sustainable supply of scrap metal for UK steelmakers, and;

• tasks the Steel Council with action on workforce needs and practical research and innovation to boost productivity and competitiveness.

Alongside the new trade measures being announced on Thursday the UK Government will also be raising the UK’s maximum most favoured nation (MFN) steel tariffs at the WTO to 50% to protect domestic industry in the long run from the impacts of global overcapacity.

In tandem the government will explore the possibility of introducing requirements to identify where steel imports are melted and poured.

There will be a quarterly rollover of quotas within the year and a review of the measure after 12 months.

"Important shortcomings" at the school in Powys "prevent pupils from making suitable progress", the education watchdog said as it put it into special measures. 

Urgent improvement is needed – particularly in leadership, the quality of teaching, skills development and attendance, the report says. Powys Council said the education authority and the school had accepted the report and an action plan would be launched.

On a recent monitoring visit to the 700+-pupil school, which was placed in Estyn review two years ago, inspectors found that absence rates had got worse in that time.

Recommended actions to improve teaching, progression and attendance had not been acted on sufficiently.

In a separate matter, not referenced in the Estyn report, Llanidloes High was cleared of promoting religious beliefs in January this year after complaints were made about what children were being taught.

On the school's website headteacher Daniel Owen gives a glowing description of the "smashing progress pupils make regardless of their starting point". The just published Estyn monitoring inspection paints a different picture.

The "initial introduction of a plethora of strategies", after the school was put into review two years ago, "stalled meaningful progress", inspectors found.

Llanidloes High's self evaluation of its work, a cornerstone of Wales' education reforms, was "over generous".

Work to improve the quality of teaching in the last two years had seen "very little discernible progress", inspectors found.

In fact, "the proportion of lessons where pupils make only limited progress has increased slightly since that inspection".

The damning report said the school's leaders involved in the restructure to improve "are still coming to terms with their new roles at a time when urgent, sustainable improvement is required".

It continues: "In the two years since the core inspection, the school has been supported by the local authority.

"However, there has been very little progress in other key areas identified by that report, in particular improving the quality of teaching and the coordination of the school’s provision for skills. In addition, there has been a decline in pupils’ attendance during this time."

In a dire description of the standards of teaching inspectors said that only in about half of the lessons they saw had teachers planned meaningful activities with clear instructions and explanations to meet the needs and interests of their pupils.

"In close to half of lessons observed, there continue to be important shortcomings very similar to those seen during the core inspection, that prevent pupils from making suitable progress," they warned.

As a result of these shortcomings "a significant proportion of pupils do not make enough progress in developing their knowledge, skills or deeper understanding," Estyn found.

Currently, not all pupils in the Welsh language stream in Years 7-9 go on to study Welsh First Language at GCSE and "too often" pupils continue to "make limited progress in developing their literacy, numeracy and digital skills".

On pupil absence, Estyn found that attendance of pupils eligible for free school meals had also fallen at Llanidloes High, since the core inspection in 2024, and was now below the average for this group of pupils in similar schools.

Rates of persistent absence have varied over this period, but, overall, did not compare well to those in similar schools, the report noted.

On a more positive note inspectors said that in the lessons observed during their visit in February, most teachers demonstrate sound subject knowledge.

Teachers they observed had "generally positive working relationships with their pupils and manage behaviour effectively" . In many lessons, teachers "establish purposeful routines which ensure that pupils settle well to the starter task".

In about half of the lessons seen teachers "frequently monitor pupils' knowledge and understanding appropriately by circulating the classroom or by asking basic questions".

Putting Llanidloes High into special measures Estyn said it had made insufficient progress in relation to recommendations to improve. The school was ranked eighth best secondary in Wales in the 2025 Sunday Times Parent Power guide.

Describing the report as "disappointing", Powys County Council said a team of senior education officers was already working with Llanidloes High.

"The findings have been accepted by both the school and the council and will underpin a joint, detailed action plan to drive improvement," the council said in a statement.

"Council officers, the school and its governing body will work together to identify the reasons behind the inspection outcome and ensure the required changes are delivered.

"Staff, pupils and parents will be fully supported throughout the improvement process."

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “This is a deeply disappointing outcome for everyone connected with Llanidloes High School, and I fully recognise the concern this will cause for parents, learners and staff.

“The Estyn report offers a clear and honest assessment of where urgent improvement is needed – particularly around leadership, the quality of teaching, skills development and attendance. These challenges are significant, but they are also surmountable.

“By focusing firmly on Estyn’s recommendations and building on the school’s strengths – such as positive teacher–pupil relationships – we will ensure that teaching and learning improves and that the school moves forward on a stable and sustainable footing.”

Clare Bound, chair of the Llanidloes Schools’ Federation, said: “While we are disappointed by the content of the report, we accept its findings and see this as an important opportunity to reset and strengthen the school’s direction.

“The governing body, senior leadership team and staff are committed to working tirelessly alongside the council and Estyn to ensure rapid and sustained improvements across the school.”

The council will now work with the school to develop an action plan, which Estyn will review.

Inspectors will revisit the school within the next four to six months to monitor progress.

4Chan has refused to pay all previous fines from Ofcom.

Ofcom responded to the BBC's request for a reply to Byrne's posts with a statement from Suzanne Cater, its director of enforcement.

"Companies – wherever they're based – are not allowed to sell unsafe toys to children in the UK. And society has long protected youngsters from things like alcohol, smoking and gambling. The digital world should be no different," she said.

"The UK is setting new standards for online safety. Age checks and risk assessments are cornerstones of our laws, and we'll take robust enforcement action against firms that fall short."

She did not comment on the image 4Chan had published in response to the fine.

The OOONO Co-Driver NO2 is £65 (was £69) at Amazon and connects to smartphones to provide motorists with real-time alerts about speed cameras, roadworks, hazards and accidents. With it, motorists can receive alerts without having to look at a screen or their phone, preventing dangerous driving that could see them slapped with unwanted fines or points on their license.

It’s compatible with Apple and Android devices and shares road data from a network of more than eight million drivers in eight countries, OOONO says. Drivers simply tap the Co-Driver – which can be easily applied to a car’s dashboard – to send a visual or audio alert to other users.

Many modern cars now feature touchscreens infotainment systems, but OOONO says its Co-Driver offers a simpler, safer solution. Sean Morris is OOONO's UK chief operating officer who previously held engineering positions at Aston Martin and Continental.

He said: “This is a game-changer for motorists and UK road safety. With popular navigation apps, drivers can easily miss road hazards, police, or safety cameras ahead – and adding alerts often becomes horrendously distracting, hidden behind various sub-menus.

“Most people don’t even switch their maps on just to pop to the shops – Co-Driver is different. It’s always on, using a simple button and audio beep system to keep drivers focused.

“We believe safe driving is a team sport. With Co-Driver, every user becomes both a recipient and a contributor of vital road information.”

According to research by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), using car screens while driving can be more distracting than driving under the influence. The Co-Driver aims to counter this with its single-button design that connects millions of drivers and allows them to share and verify road information quickly and safely.

The gadget can be charged via USB-C and traditional USB ports, whether in the car or home. Similar features are offered by rival gadgets like the Tom by TomTom Road Alert Assistant, but this model holds a three-star rating compared to the Co-Drivers 4.1.

There’s also the Road Angel Pure Sync, but this requires a subscription to work and comes in at a more pricey £99.99 (was £199.99). Motoring Editor Gareth Butterfield road-tested the Co-Driver and hailed it as ‘one of the most useful bits of motoring tech out there’.

Explaining how the little gadget works, he said: “You’re driving along and the dashboard-mounted Co-Driver beeps at you. This is a warning that something is ahead.

“You can distinguish exactly what it’s warning you about by configuring the alerts in the app, but this means a Co-Driver user has spotted a speed camera or a hazard and tapped on the device. So picture the scene, you’re driving along the motorway and carelessly let your car wander over the speed limit.

“A camera is approaching in a few hundred yards but, thankfully, the Co-Driver knows, lets you know, and you’ve got time to slow down before you reach the camera. When you get to whatever it is you’ve been warned about, you then confirm it’s still there by pressing the device.

“You don’t need to look at it, you don’t need to read anything, it’s all just done with beeps and flashes. It’s really clever.”

On his own experience with Co-Driver, Gareth added: “I’ve been on some long journeys with the Co-Driver, including motorway jaunts and a blast around Snowdonia – it’s pretty good. In high-traffic areas, it’s very reliable, it only missed a few speed cameras and hazards.

“In more rural, isolated parts, it’s not been quite as clever. I guess that's the hitch with a community-based system, the bigger the community is, the better it works.”

It comes as Thousands of students in Kent are to be offered vaccines in the coming days as health chiefs deal with an “unprecedented” and “explosive” outbreak of meningitis.

Some 15 cases of meningitis have so far been reported to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), up from 13 reported previously, including two deaths.

The number of cases is expected to rise because the incubation period for the infection – to when symptoms appear – is two to 14 days.

The outbreak is being viewed by experts as unprecedented owing to the high number of cases appearing in such a short space of time.

UKHSA chief executive Susan Hopkins said: “This looks like a super-spreader event, with ongoing spread within the halls of residence in the universities.

“There will have been some parties particularly around this, so there will have been lots of social mixing.

“I can’t yet say where the initial infection came from, how it’s got into this cohort, and why it’s created such an explosive amount of infections.

“I can say that in my 35 years working in medicine, in healthcare and hospitals, this is the most cases I’ve seen in a single weekend with this type of infection.

“It’s the explosive nature that is unprecedented here – the number of cases in such a short space of time.

“NHS were initially managing it as a major incident in the region but they have now increased that overlay to having a national-level oversight as well.”

England’s deputy chief medical officer Dr Thomas Waite said: “This is by far the quickest-growing outbreak I’ve ever seen in my career, and I think probably any of us have seen, of meningitis for a very long time.

“Whilst it remains an outbreak that is having its consequences in Kent, it is obviously of national significance.”

About 5,000 students in university halls in Kent are to be offered the meningitis B vaccine in coming days. The aim is to prevent further disease in several weeks time if somebody has been harbouring the infection.

Four schools in total across Kent have now confirmed cases and hundreds of people are being offered antibiotics as an immediate treatment.

All reported cases so far have a link to Kent, according to the UKHSA. At least one person who fell ill and had links to Kent attended a London hospital.

Health officials stressed that people should not skip antibiotics if prescribed them, with a single tablet of Ciprofloxacin reducing the risk of meningitis in a household by about 80% to 90%.

Experts said many of those affected attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury over March 5-7.

The UKHSA said all 15 cases had required hospital admission, with four cases confirmed to have menB.

Laboratory scientists are urgently trying to work out if the spread is caused by a possible mutant strain of menB.

The genome of the menB strain identified in the outbreak is undergoing whole genome sequencing to see if there are any differences to known strains.

It will also be tested against available menB vaccines, though experts stressed people should get a jab if eligible.

Earlier on Tuesday, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said most students would not already be vaccinated against menB, adding that the jabs will begin in the next few days.

He told MPs “This is an unprecedented outbreak. It is also a rapidly developing situation.”

He said the menB vaccine has been available on the NHS since 2015 as part of routine childhood immunisations, “but clearly most students would not be vaccinated”.

He added: “Given the severity of the situation, I can confirm to the House that we will begin a targeted vaccination programme for students living in halls of residence at the University of Kent in Canterbury, which will begin in the coming days.”

The programme may also expand further if other groups are deemed to be at risk.

Mr Streeting said he had asked the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to “re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines” for a wider group of people after it ruled a menB catch-up campaign for older children was not cost-effective.

The Health Secretary also told MPs he was “confident” that the UKHSA acted as “quickly and comprehensively as possible” in its response to the outbreak of meningitis, after criticism that it was too slow to act and inform the public.

Mr Streeting also set out how the cases “link back” to the Club Chemistry nightclub over the dates of March 5-7.

He said that on Saturday, French authorities alerted the UKHSA to a confirmed case in France in a person who had attended the University of Kent.

Both two cases at this point lived in private accommodation, “and at that stage, there was no apparent link between the two”, Mr Streeting said.

There are four centres open in Canterbury offering antibiotics, with 11,000 doses available on site, Mr Streeting told MPs.

“The onset of illness is often sudden, and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital,” he said, adding it could likely be spread from sharing drinks, vapes and close contact.

Earlier, the deputy director of the immunisation and vaccine preventable diseases division at the UKHSA, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, said the outbreak of meningitis had been “unusual” but she did not believe there was a current risk to anyone outside the Kent region.

“We have no evidence of any wider spread,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.

“So it’s really important to reassure people across the country that there’s no evidence of wider spread at the current time but it’s important, in terms of vaccination, to make sure that your children are fully up to date with the vaccines that are available, and to be alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease.

“Although it can be rare, it can be severe and devastating, and so prompt recognition, early treatment is very important.”

In the letter, they confessed that they and another student took a temporary PVC banner hanging outside the shop on St Helen's Road after a night of drinking. The former student had a guilty conscious over the theft which happened over a decade earlier and sent the apology as well as five £20 notes.

The note reads: "Some 15 years ago as a student, following a night of drinking, I and another came across a temporary PVC banner hanging from your shop. 

The now seven year old complained of pain in her legs before falling asleep on the sofa. When Emma, 41, checked on her just 30 minutes later, she noticed she had a high temperature and a rash on her thigh. “It started so suddenly,” said Emma, from Cefn Fforest, Caerphilly.

“She’s been playing in the park with my husband that morning and was absolutely fine. When she came home, she began complaining of pain in her legs. Noa-Rose fell asleep on the sofa and when I checked on her, she had developed a high temperature, her hands and feet were cold, and a rash had appeared on her thigh. It quickly spread to her shoulder and stomach.”

Emma and husband Scott, 47, rushed the girl to the hospital where she was diagnosed with Meningococcal Meningitis Type B, whooping cough and flu. Doctors said that if Emma hadn’t acted so quickly, it could have been fatal.

Emma said: “Her little body was taking an enormous hit. We knew she was seriously unwell, but we never imagined meningitis. She had received all her vaccinations, including her booster just eight weeks earlier.

“When we heard the word meningitis, we were terrified. I knew how fast it can become fatal. Doctors told us that bringing her in when we did saved her life. If we had waited, she would not have survived.

“They didn’t say what caused it, just that it was an isolated case.”

Despite pulling through since the scary ordeal in December 2022, Noa-Rose has been left with long-term health complications including epilepsy. She has two seizures a month.

The youngster is still undergoing tests and there is a possibility she may require brain surgery in the future. Emma said: “She takes daily medication and life is very different for her now. She has frequent hospital appointments and her bedroom has a camera, a seizure mattress and epilepsy alarm.

“No child should be governed by a medication schedule. My message to anyone who suspects meningitis is simple, be decisive, go to hospital and get checked. Meningitis progresses incredibly fast and can be fatal within hours.

“Knowing the signs and symptoms can save a life. I absolutely know what the families in Kent are going through. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by the outbreak. We know only too well how stressful and uncertain this time is for them all.”

Since the ordeal, Emma has become a community volunteer, helping to raise awareness of the disease and its symptoms. The family has also taken part in a series of fundraising challenges.

Her husband climbed Mont Blanc, raising around £2,500, while Emma organised community events including a Halloween party and a festive fundraiser. In their most recent challenge, Noa-Rose herself climbed Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, raising more than £5,000.

Emma added: “Throughout our journey, we have been supported by Meningitis Now. They have been helping families for 40 years and have contributed £13 million towards vaccine research. Their support has meant everything to us.

“We wanted to give something back. Our purpose is not only to raise funds, but to raise awareness, so no family ever has to experience what we did.”

The senior officials briefed MPs on the Access to Work programme. This is a grant initiative to offer additional workplace support for people with a health condition or disability, to help them to carry out their job. Applicants can receive up to £69,260 annually in grants through the initiative, which can cover items such as specialist equipment or a support worker. The typical grant award amounts to £4,000 per year, or £10,500 for those requiring a support worker, the equivalent of almost £200 a week.

Both demand for and expenditure on the programme have doubled since the 2018/2019 financial year, with the DWP allocating £321million to the initiative in 2024/2025. The processing time for applications currently stands at up to 37 weeks.

Nevertheless, the committee heard that the DWP can expedite applications. DWP permanent secretary Peter Schofield, said: "If you have a job that you are ready to start within four weeks, we prioritise it.

"If there is some other reason why it needs to be prioritised, we prioritise it." The representatives said they are making headway in reducing case processing times.

Mr Schofield said one significant shift they have observed concerns the types of medical conditions for which individuals are seeking the support.

Different health conditions

He said: "What we have seen is not only a doubling of claims but a really dramatic change in the nature of the claims coming in and of the health conditions that we are talking about-more mental health conditions and more conditions around neurodiversity. There is not a standard way of looking at what would be required in terms of reasonable adjustments."

Reasonable adjustments are modifications that employers are legally obliged to implement so that people with health conditions can perform their duties. This might involve supplying physical equipment or changing your working practices.

Mr Schofield said: "You have to think about each of those conditions individually. They could be fluctuating conditions; they could be conditions that impact in particular circumstances in a different way.

"Obviously, the nature of the workplace has changed dramatically as well. To get this right - to get the right decisions - is a really complex piece of work, and we have got to get it right."

Who could qualify for Access to Work?

DWP guidance clarifies that to be eligible for Access to Work funding, you must have "a physical or mental health condition or disability that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work".

A formal medical diagnosis is not required to submit an application for this support. These seven types of health conditions could qualify you for the funding:

• A physical disability, such as being hard of hearing or using a wheelchair
• A learning disability or related condition, for instance Down's syndrome
• A developmental condition, like autism spectrum disorder
• Conditions like ADHD or dyslexia
• An illness such as diabetes or epilepsy
• A temporary condition, like a broken leg
• A mental health condition, for example anxiety or depression.

You can apply for the support on the Government website.

Numerous parks are set to reopen for the spring season within the next fortnight, whilst others are unveiling new rides and even entirely new themed areas. From adrenaline-pumping attractions to experiences based on children's television programmes, there are numerous forthcoming openings to mark in the diary.

Here's an overview of some of Britain's largest and most popular theme parks and what new experiences await visitors in 2026.

Paultons Park

Paultons Park is introducing an entirely new themed area to its layout. Valgard: Realm of the Vikings launches on 16th May, perfectly timed for half term.

It will feature three Viking-inspired attractions: Drakon, the park's first inverting rollercoaster featuring a dramatic vertical lift, Vild Swing, which will propel riders 39ft skyward, and Raven, a bobsled ride formerly known as the Cobra coaster, which has been reimagined to complement the theme, 

The new area will also feature a Viking-themed playground and dining hall, offering a truly immersive experience. Theme park enthusiasts can reserve Paultons Park tickets online for the opening day.

Paultons Park is arguably most renowned as the location of Peppa Pig World, and its new area is targeted towards older children and adults, introducing additional thrill rides to the park. However, if you're bringing younger visitors, be sure to visit Peppa Pig World to meet the family's newest member, Evie.

Chessington

Chessington's new World of PAW Patrol will arrive on the double, though a specific launch date remains unconfirmed. The park has announced a spring 2026 opening, featuring four attractions.

Chase's Mountain Mission, a family-friendly rollercoaster, Skye's Helicopter Heroes, offering youngsters an aerial adventure, and Marshall's Firetruck Rescue, where children can board a gleaming red fire engine.

Zuma's Hovercraft Adventure will be a 'drifter' attraction, set to become the first of its kind in Britain. Additionally, Rubble and Rocky's Playzone will allow children to "climb, slide, and explore."

Character meet-and-greets with the beloved pups will be available, and fans can even reserve an overnight stay in one of the PAW Patrol-themed rooms at Chessington's Azteca hotel. These vibrant rooms accommodate up to five guests and feature themed bunk beds for youngsters.

Alton Towers

Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies! welcomes Alton Towers' visitors on March 28, perfectly timed for the Easter holidays. It's the world's first Bluey rollercoaster and will cater to young devotees of the programme.

Preview images for the attraction depict Bluey and Bingo dressed as the beloved grannies Janet and Rita, with the ride situated in the Heelers' back garden. Additional Bluey rooms are being introduced to the CBeebies Land hotel, with bookings available online for spring dates and beyond.

Adrenaline junkies can also experience the Toxicator, which launched last March. This vivid green rollercoaster propels riders skyward whilst spinning them at breakneck speed, delivering a heart-pounding thrill.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Come spring 2026, Blackpool Pleasure Beach will unveil Aviktas, a new £8.72 million gyro swing attraction. Standing at 138ft tall, it will claim the title of Britain's loftiest ride of its type.

Whilst a precise launch date has not been announced, enthusiasts can secure VIP passes for the inaugural event, guaranteeing first access to the new attraction.

The year 2026 also marks Blackpool Pleasure Beach's 130th anniversary. Throughout March, guests booking online ahead of time can obtain half-price admission, with eTickets priced at £30.

Alternatively, families can purchase four tickets for £100, granting unlimited access to the park's attractions for the day.

Crealy

Crealy will introduce two new attractions in 2026, with one potentially recognisable to theme park aficionados. Spring will witness the debut of Pirates' Plummet, an 80ft tall drop tower set to become the South West's highest ride.

Previously located at Paultons Park under the name Magma, the attraction is being reconstructed at the Devon theme park.

During summer, Rotor, an inverting air race attraction, will commence operations. The ride will rotate guests around and upside-down for an exhilarating adventure.

Neither ride has a confirmed opening date yet, though short breaks or tickets can be reserved via the Crealy website.

Pleasurewood Hills

Pleasurewood Hills changed hands last year, with new proprietors unveiling proposals for four fresh attractions to rejuvenate the family-oriented Suffolk theme park. The BBC reports that the proposed additions would feature Star Flyer (a 30-metre-high thrill ride), Spinning Coaster, Apple Coaster, and the Big Wheel.

Planning permission for these new attractions is anticipated in April, though no opening date has been confirmed should approval be granted.

NCP has suffered economically since the pandemic with the need for parking decreasing especially in city centre car parks. Commuter locations have also taken a hit as less people travel to the office and have continued to work from home since 2020.

PwC said: "The company’s performance has deteriorated over a number of years post Covid-19 as demand for parking has not recovered to historic levels, particularly across city centre and commuter locations.

"Continued shifts in commuting and customer driving patterns have impacted site occupancy while the high concentration of long-term inflexible leases has meant the company has been unable to reduce costs in line with revenue or to exit loss-making sites resulting in ongoing trading losses."

They also clarified that NCP "now has insufficient cash available to meet its financial obligations and the directors have therefore taken the decision to appoint administrators".

Site closures across the 340 locations could be possible according to the administrators.

All NCP car parks are open and staff currently remain as the potential sale of all or part of the business is discussed.

Zelf Hussain, joint administrator and PwC partner, said: "NCP has faced a challenging trading environment over several years with changing consumer behaviours impacting volumes and a high fixed cost-base leading to trading losses.

"Our priority on appointment is to ensure continuity of service while we undertake a detailed review of the business. All sites are open, staff remain in post, and trading continues as normal.

"We will be engaging with landlords, employees, and other stakeholders as we explore all options, including the potential sale of all or part of the business, to secure the best possible outcome for creditors."

NCP operate car parks across Wales including in city centres such as Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea.

Two demountable classrooms at the school in Fairwater used to provide accommodation to “support pupils’ emotional health needs” but have “exceeded their operational lifespan and are no longer fit for purpose”.

The planning application reads: “The structures suffer from persistent water ingress through the roof and external envelope, and despite repeated repair attempts, these defects have not been successfully resolved.”

It continues: “The ongoing leaks have resulted in electrical failures on multiple occasions, presenting a clear and unacceptable health and safety risk.” 

The loss of these classrooms has “created an immediate and critical shortfall in teaching accommodation” as the school has no alternative internal spaces to repurpose for this need and “continued delivery of education is therefore being adversely affected”.

As such, Cardiff Council has approved the installation of a portable building to serve as a temporary classroom.

According to the application, this temporary classroom is “urgently required” and is considered to provide “essential accommodation”.

The classroom will be in place while a “permanent solution is developed and delivered”.

Documents read: “It is anticipated that the temporary classroom would be required for a period of approximately three years, reflecting the timescales associated with securing funding, design, and construction of a permanent facility.”

The building will not be occupied by additional staff and pupil numbers, no car parking spaces will be lost nor will any public rights of way be affected.

According to the document: “[The proposal is] a wholly sustainable method of providing functional classrooms quickly with minimal disruption to the surrounding area, off site prefabrication and fit out ensure both quality and material /energy wastage are stringently monitored.”

The school will continue to safeguard pupils through the installation and management of “control authorized access systems”.

Her health worsened and she was moved to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, where she died on November 7, 2025.

Her friend Scarlett Tonna remarked: "She was hilarious, she was always the life of the party. She'd always love going out and being involved in all the socials. She was in the Cheer Society at John Moores and she'd go out with them and dress up."

Another friend, Niamh Bosher, commented: "Her first week, she came as a bumblebee. Then she came as a pineapple with these massive feathers on her head. She always loved to dress up and go out."

Scarlet noted: "She loved uni, she had so many friends here. She was loved by so many people. (Losing her) was awful for everyone. We had a memorial walk a few days after she passed away and there were hundreds and hundreds of people there who knew her and cared about her."

"We did a fundraiser and thousands of people donated to it, and it racked up quite a lot of money. She was honestly so popular and everyone loved her."

An inquest at Liverpool Coroners' Court today, Monday (March 16), heard how Olivia, a second-year business student at Liverpool John Moores University, had attended the Halloween rave at the venue in Vauxhall on November 1 last year. Prior to the event, she took a taxi to Scarlett's house, where she disclosed she had MDMA (ecstasy) in her possession,

The pair arrived at the Halloween rave at around 4pm, and Scarlett said she witnessed Olivia take MDMA approximately one to two hours afterwards.

Another member of the group said they saw Olivia consuming MDMA before she collapsed at around 10.05pm. She was taken to a welfare tent, where staff used bags of ice in an attempt to reduce her temperature.

An ambulance was called and she was transported to Royal Liverpool Hospital, arriving at 11.45pm.

She was taken to the emergency department, where she was intubated and placed on a ventilator. Her liver and kidney functions deteriorated and she was given medication and placed on dialysis.

On November 3 she was approved for a liver transplant, and was transferred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham on November 5. However, a CT scan that day "confirmed that sadly Olivia was unlikely to survive", and she died two days later before the transplant could be carried out.

A post-mortem examination found her cause of death was multi-organ failure, acute liver failure, and drug intoxication. A registered organ donor, Olivia donated her lungs and her heart, saving the lives of two other people.

Recording a conclusion of a drug-related death, coroner Helen Rimmer stated: "Olivia did donate her lungs and her heard prior to her death, and she has given that gift of life to at least two individuals and she has saved two other people.

"I accept the medical cause of death as multi-organ failure, acute liver failure and drug intoxication. She had consumed ecstasy at a rave event in Liverpool on November 1 with fatal consequences."

Following her death, Olivia was repatriated to Northern Ireland, where her funeral took place at St Colmcille's Church, East Belfast, on December 12 last year.

Niamh remarked: "It seemed like every time you'd go out with Liv, every five minutes you'd stop and talk to someone. She knew everyone and everyone knew her.

"On her birthday we went down the docks and laid flowers down, and a few other people went down too. The Cheer Society's doing a charity event for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust that helped her get home. Everybody still thinks about her and they're still planning things."

But over a 72-hour period, her condition quickly worsened to vomiting and migraines - and she was admitted to Poole Hospital on April 1, 2024, where tests and a lumbar puncture confirmed viral meningitis. Over the weekend, it was announced that two people have died following an outbreak of meningitis at the University of Kent - with 11 more "seriously ill" in hospital.

Vicki said that she feels like history is repeating itself and is calling for mandatory education in schools and universities for meningitis awareness. Vicki, who works part-time, from Wimborne, Dorset, said: “I just feel sad that history's still repeating itself.

“My heart just goes out to all those families affected and it's just such a sad thing to happen to those people. Ideally, with meningitis, there should be a mandatory training element within schools, maybe even with PSHE lessons. I think that should be taught a lot earlier, before it gets to the point of university and to the age of college.

“It can be carried in so many different ways, and some are unavoidable, but if you know and recognise the symptoms, it can potentially be prevented. Even if it’s not the individual who ends up going through it, they could help a friend if they know that information.”

Vicki believed she contracted the deadly illness after taking her youngest, Freddie, to the hospital a week prior. But it wasn't until her mum, Julie, found out she was vomiting and slurring her words following a phone call three days later in March 2024 that she dialled 999.

Vicki was asked to touch her chin to her chest, but when she couldn't, she was blue-lighted to Poole Hospital. A lumbar puncture test confirmed she had viral meningitis.

Vicki, who originally shared her story with Talk To The Press, said: "I remember waking up with a headache and some pains and not thinking much of them.

"I honestly thought it was just the flu and the symptoms would subside. At the hospital, I was pumped with antibiotics as my body was somewhat shutting down. But when I heard meningitis, the words hit me like a train."

Vicki was discharged from the hospital after a week. But later returned on April 15 when she experienced the "same symptoms again" - known as recurrent meningitis - and, at this point, the illness had affected the neurological pathways of her brain so much she “lost most use" of her legs.

Further tests confirmed she had focal neurological deficits (FND) - a condition triggered by the meningitis where the brain has trouble sending and receiving signals properly - which can cause a wide range of issues, including loss of sensation and touch in the body.

Vicki was discharged from hospital a second time four days later and was told her mobility may return after a few weeks. But two years later, she is still unable to walk and heavily relies on a wheelchair and aid to get around.

"I essentially lost sensation from the waist down and my independence took a severe hit," Vicki said. "I was virtually housebound for a year. I relied on a wheelchair to get around and I missed out on being a mum and a wife.

"It was incredibly isolating. I couldn't go out without someone taking me out or enjoy the outdoors like I used to. And I didn't recover like doctors said I would."

Today, Vicki continues to try to recover by regularly attending physiotherapy and doing exercises to boost mobility. She is also preparing to attend school assemblies as a guest speaker to help raise awareness about the disease.

Vicki believes this could be an effective and empowering public health strategy because assemblies gather a “large audience” of students who “have to listen”.

Her message to university students and young people is to “empower yourselves with knowledge - knowledge is power”. Vicki said: “Not as a scaremongering thing, but empower yourself with the information of various things you might get at your age, so that if anything happens, you know what the signs and symptoms are.

“You really need to just go get yourself checked out if you've got any kind of severity of the symptoms. Contact the GP or 111, or refer to Meningitis Now for the symptoms.

“For me personally, it was a migraine like no other. I was physically being sick from the pain of it being so unbearable. You can't shake it off and no standard medication would touch it.”

Vicki’s goal for 2026 is to try and turn what’s happened to her into a positive by “helping others”. She has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for the “proactive work” of Meningitis Now, the charity that helped provide Vicki with her wheelchair.

Vicki said that she hopes the families of those impacted in Kent will reach out to Meningitis Now’s bereavement support team as a resource.

“I just sent out my condolences to them all because it's just such a horrible thing for everyone affected to go through," Vicki said. "I've had a real rubbish past couple of years, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Even though I am trying my hardest to recover."

"I don't think I ever will, but I hope my story can help others to become more aware of the symptoms for meningitis and FND. My thoughts go out to them all.”

If you wish to donate to Vicki's GoFundMe, visit: https://gofund.me/d417e7a5b

Aspiring DJ Christian St Louis, 22, from Middleton, Greater Manchester, invited the King to try his hand on the mixing table.

As he put Charles through his paces, Mr St Louis explained: “First, you load up the tracks and then play this one … there are so many buttons. Once you know what to do, it’s easy.”

The King moved to the groove as an onlooker said: “It’s not as easy as it looks, is it?”

Charles laughed and replied: “You just have to get the hang of it.”

Mr St Louis, formerly from east London, told the King that taking a DJing course through the trust had been “more than helpful”.

He said: “I always wanted to DJ. Now I know I can do it.”

He said he was looking for a job to save up and buy his own decks, with a goal of bringing out his own EP music recording.

In 2024, the King’s Trust joined forces with the Elba Hope Foundation, a public charity founded by actor Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina to launch Creative Futures, a range of free courses designed to inspire young people through the arts, building their skills and confidence to work in the creative industries.

Elba was supported by the King’s Trust, formerly the Prince’s Trust, when he was a teenager.

Another beneficiary from the King’s Trust, Mariama Jallow, 19, from Manchester, read her own poem to the King.

Ms Jallow undertook a creative music course and went on to learn about health and social care.

Charles told her he had already seen an example of her poetry which Elba had shown him on a piece of film.

He said: “It was fantastic. Really, really good.”

Charles also met young people who had learned skills in stage construction such as lighting, sound and production through the Factory Academy based at Aviva Studios.

Creative Futures has helped more than 100 young people across Manchester and is now supporting young people in other parts of the UK.

Launched in 2018 by Factory International, the Factory Academy aims to provide accessible career pathways into the creative industries and boost creative skills across the region.

The Factory Academy has collaborated with the King’s Trust to deliver programmes from Creative Futures.

Charles unveiled a plaque to mark his visit before he was treated to a performance outside by a choir from the Royal Northern College of Music.

The King spoke briefly to members of the public who gathered outside the city-centre venue including child-minder Jodie Pownall, from New Mills, Derbyshire, who brought along one-year-old twins Teddy and Kuba, two-year-old Jackson, and Ronnie, Stevie and George, all aged one.

Next on the royal visit, Charles spent time at the launch of Circularity in Practice, a new initiative repurposing and resuing pre-loved items to reduce waste.

The nationwide project invites UK firms of all sizes and sectors, to cut waste and promote the circular use of materials that would otherwise go to waste.

“Let’s hope you can make a real movement out of it, now you have signed up,” Charles told business leaders gathered at the event.

And the King got his hands on the tools at the launch of the project at the Renew Hub on Trafford Park, run by waste and recycling firm Suez.

The King handled a compression staple gun to finish off a French-style settee, reupholstered with fabric from London’s Royal Opera House.

Paul Cunliffe, 56, from Winstanley, Wigan, teaches volunteers about the craft of upholstering and renewing furniture and invited Charles to use the staple gun.

He said afterwards: “It was all right, I was just, obviously, you don’t want him shooting himself.

“I think he’s supportive, very supportive.”

The Renew Hub, launched in 2021 by Suez, is the UK’s largest reuse and repair facility, located at Trafford Park in Greater Manchester.

The King viewed the thousands of items salvaged from local council dumps which will now be repurposed, including thousands of electrical items, bicycles, vacuum cleaners and all types of furniture.

These are then resold, with the money donated to charity.

The hub said it had already refurbished and recycled 500,000 items, sold through shops in Altrincham, Oldham and Salford and online, and had raised £1.6 million for good causes over the last four years.

Earlier, Charles was greeted on arrival by Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, Councillor Jane Brophy, Mayor of Trafford, and Michelle Pinggera, chair of the Circularity in Practice Initiative, before being given a tour of the facility.

John Scanlon, chief executive of Suez, who accompanied Charles during the tour, said: “So today we’ve had a launch of an initiative, a task force, Circularity in Practice, it’s about bringing together lots of people from different industries to look at how can we do things smarter with what other people would normally throw away as waste.

“How can we give it a second life? How can I either sell that into members of the public or how can we then reuse that in industry or to make sure that we don’t need to take raw materials out of the earth.

“And what’s been very clear from the outset is, His Majesty has been super passionate about the environment and really wanting to champion how we can make sure that items that other people discard become a real valuable raw material going forward.

“So it was really great to see how interested he was.

“I think I can say, you know, he was here to be scheduled for a certain amount of time and that overran quite a lot because he was really keen to talk to lots of the volunteers who work here to understand what they’re doing and how they’re making things more circular.

“A great privilege for me, personally, and for our company.

“And for everybody that works here, all the team, to have their kind of work recognised in such a manner.”

Later in the day, the King visited the Greencore food manufacturing site in Warrington, Cheshire, where he was shown meals on the production line which will be donated to communities in need through the Coronation Food Project.

The project, inspired by the monarch, led to the formation of the Alliance Food Sourcing initiative which has “rescued” more than 10 million meals from surplus food and production capacity, as well as donations from the industry.

While touring the site, which makes Italian ready meals, the King spoke to factory worker Leanne Scott, 42, who was monitoring a production line of lasagnes which will be donated.

She said: “I’ve worked here for 20 years and I’ve never met a king before, so it’s one for the memory box.

“He was really pleasant and a really nice guy. I think what he’s been doing for charity is great.”

Members of staff waited outside to see Charles before he left.

Leah Ellis, 44, said she asked the King what his favourite Italian dish was.

She told the Press Association: “He didn’t say but he did say he likes a good parmesan.

“He asked if we get to travel to Italy to try the dishes and we have been to Italy to look at products.

“It’s been very exciting today since we found out he was coming, we’ve been watching out of the window.

“It was so lovely he came out and spoke to us.”

Chief executive of the Greencore Group Dalton Philips said: “It was a privilege to welcome the King and to showcase the innovation happening across Greencore.

“From pioneering new ways to reduce food waste to developing the highly skilled engineers of the future, our teams are proving just how dynamic and forward‑thinking the food industry can be.”

The cash is designed to help local authorities recover from the “devastating” floods of November 2025, which saw emergency rescues and widespread damage across West Wales.

It follows a major incident declaration at the height of the storms, which saw fire crews and lifeboats called out to save residents from rising waters.

The funding comes as a lifeline for the region, which has already seen £100k drainage grants used to tackle persistent flooding issues in the city and surrounding areas.

Among the most heart-breaking stories from the 2025 floods was the rescue of 34 animals from a Carmarthenshire dog sanctuary after it was completely submerged.

Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, said: “The storms of late 2025 caused real hardship for communities right across Wales.”

She added: “I am determined that no council should be left to bear those costs alone.”

The new funding will be used to repair infrastructure, clear debris, and support ongoing recovery efforts in the hardest-hit areas.

It builds on previous support, including £2.5 million already made available to communities in Monmouthshire following Storm Claudia.

The announcement is a major step forward for Carmarthenshire, which has been at the forefront of the battle against extreme weather.

Ms Bryant concluded: “I want residents in Carmarthenshire to know that the Welsh Government stands with them as they continue to recover and rebuild.”

The funding will be officially allocated in the 2026-27 financial year, which the Welsh Government say will provide long-term security for the county’s recovery plans.

The former Hendrefoilan Student Village, which closed its doors in 2023, is being reborn as a 248-home estate featuring a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom properties.

Developer St Modwen Homes — now part of Miller Homes — says work will start “imminently” on the final selection of houses, which will be “wrapped around” a significant area of existing woodland.

James Mulcahy, managing director of St Modwen Homes, said: “We have made a significant commitment to this area of Swansea with a simple outcome — to help develop the former student village into desirable new housing.”

The project has already seen nearly £1 million paid by the developer to fund a major extension at Hendrefoilan Primary School and improve local traffic junctions.

The final phase will include 10 affordable homes, bringing the total number of affordable properties on the estate to 25, alongside a brand-new play area for local families.

While the approval was unanimous, the committee did raise questions about the completion of “missing” footpaths onto Dunvant Road and the management of construction dust on the site.

Planning officers confirmed that the developer would be pressured to finish the outstanding paths, while three replacement trees will be planted for every one cut down during the final build.

Prospective buyers can already register interest in the Hendrefoilan Park development, with a new showhome expected to open later this year as the final phase of the landmark project nears completion.

Devonish is accused of having expressed an opinion or belief in support of the proscribed organisation during a speech in November 2023. The court heard Devonish had attended a march in Cardiff and addressed a crowd gathered at Ty William Morgan in Central Square.

Devonish was arrested in January 2024 after a video of the speech was posted on social media. 

In a video shown to the jury Devonish said: "I would never condemn the resistance of Palestinians because their resistance is due to the occupation.

"So, if you want to talk about violence, if you want to talk about atrocities, then point the finger to the state of Israel. I am sick of being told to condemn Hamas, when Hamas are fighting for freedom, Hamas are fighting for the people."

The court heard the march took place on November 11, 2023 and was attended by approximately 500 people.

Diana Wilson, prosecuting, said: "There is no dispute this is Miss Devonish (in the video) and she is addressing a crowd, likely at the end of the march."

Devonish, of Pentrebane, Cardiff, is charged with expressing an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation, namely Hamas, contrary to the Terrorism Act 2000.

The trial continues.

The injuries the two men suffered in the incident are not thought to be life-threatening, it was previously reported.

A statement from South Wales Police read: "Following a report of an assault in 10 Mile Lane during the early hours of March 8, Leroy McCalla, 41, from Southwark, London, has been charged with two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

"He is due to appear at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court today (Monday, March 16)."

The popular city centre bar was closed last weekend, but said it will be welcoming people back soon. In a statement on social media, the bar posted: "While we take this time to pause and re group, we would like to thank everyone for their support and understanding. We look forward to welcoming you back soon."

Jones, 23, of no fixed abode, was with another man in the Abergele Road area of Colwyn Bay on the evening of February 17, a court heard.

Council CCTV operators requested police officers attend Station Road where they had spotted the two men who appeared to be in possession of a knife. 

The pair were detained, with witnesses describing how Jones had been waving the knife about, making threats towards the youngsters. Firearms officers were also called and the two were detained following a struggle.

The court heard Jones approached the group and, after an exchange, pursued them to Station Road whilst brandishing the weapon,

Most of the youngsters managed to take shelter inside a shop but one girl was trapped outside. She said she feared for her life as Jones waved the knife, shouting: "I will show you who I am."

The ordeal continued near the Prince Madoc pub before officers arrived and detained both men following a struggle. Even whilst being restrained Jones continued to shout threats.

Judge Timothy Petts noted Jones' "bad track record" and a persistent pattern of carrying knives. The Probation Service deemed him a high risk to the public and there was nothing they could do to contain his risk in the community.

As a result, the judge determined that a custodial sentence was the only suitable punishment for such menacing behaviour.

Jones confessed to threatening an individual with a bladed object in a public area. On Friday at Caernarfon Crown Court, Judge Timothy Petts sentenced him to 20 months in prison.

A spokesperson for North Wales Police said: "We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who threaten the safety of our community."

The force said it has not taken the decision "lightly" and added that it did so in conjunction with the city's council ensure the safety of pupils.

The nature of the report, which it has not been disclosed, remains under investigation according to police. 

A statement from South Wales Police read: "Two Cardiff schools will remain closed on Monday (March 16) following a report made to South Wales Police on Sunday evening.

"Llanishen High School and Eastern High School will close as a safety precaution whilst investigations are undertaken, following discussion between the police and Cardiff Council."

Superintendent Mark Kavanagh added: "We have come to the decision, with support from Cardiff Council, to keep these schools closed on Monday in order to avoid risk, following a report which was made to police on Sunday evening.

"This report is currently under investigation.

"This decision was not taken lightly but was made with the safety of pupils, staff and the wider school communities in mind."

Organisers admit the night went “slightly off script” when the First Minister was found in a huddle with young people in the bar, posing for photos before her formal speech.

Ms Morgan arrived quietly and without fanfare, joining more than 80 people gathered for the launch of Welsh Labour’s new Gwyr Abertawe candidates.

Alison Martin, Club Secretary of Penlan Social Club, said: “Our regulars had no idea she was coming and were delighted to have the First Minister posing for photos in the bar.”

She added: “It’s not every day the First Minister drops in for a fish and chip supper and we’re very proud to have been part of such a special evening.”

The First Minister used the visit to set out her party’s election pledges ahead of the Senedd vote on May 7, promising a “new chapter” for Wales.

The evening also marked a changing of the guard for Swansea, with Ms Morgan paying tribute to long-serving MSs Julie James and Rebecca Evans, who are both standing down.

The new candidate list for the region is led by Mike Hedges MS, followed by Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart, who has spearheaded the city’s regeneration.

In a move that delighted the room, Ms Morgan stayed on after the formal speeches to enjoy a supper of fish and chips supplied by local Swansea chip shop, Roma.

She also took time to meet local business owners, including Nicky Romanello from the popular chippy, who had supported the event.

The First Minister’s unannounced stop in Penlan is seen as a key moment in the lead-up to the May elections, as parties begin to ramp up their local campaigns.

The areas of Wales which have seen the greatest spikes in prices are Ceredigion, where motorists are paying more than an 11p extra per litre. The second largest price increase was seen in Carmarthenshire, where costs have gone up by more than 10p a litre.

Here are the full price increases in each Welsh local authority area:

• Ceredigion - 137.6p. Up 11.4p per litre.
• Carmarthenshire - 139.7p. Up 10.4p per litre.
• Flintshire - 140.9p. Up 9.7p per litre.
• Swansea - 137.5p. Up 9.5p per litre.
• Pembrokeshire - 136.5p. Up 9.4p per litre.
• Anglesey - 136.8p. Up 9.3p per litre.
• Monmouthshire - 139.5p. Up 9.2p per litre.
• Bridgend - 136.8p. Up 9.2p per litre.
• Gwynedd - 136.1p. Up 9.2p per time.
• Conwy - 141.6p. Up 9p per litre.
• Blaenau Gwent - 136.9p. Up 9p per litre.
• Cardiff - 140.5p. Up 8.8p per litre.
• Wrexham - 140.2p. Up 8.8p per litre.
• Caerphilly - 138.5p. Up 8.8p per litre.
• Newport - 138.7p. Up 8.7p per litre.
• Neath Port Talbot - 136.8p. Up 8.7p per litre.
• Torfaen - 136.4p. Up 8.7p per litre.
• Powys - 140.3p. Up 8.5p per litre.
• Denbighshire - 142.2p. Up 8.2p per litre.
• Rhondda Cynon Taf - 137.5p. Up 8.2p per litre.
• Vale of Glamorgan - 139.4p. Up 7.9p per litre.
• Merthtyr Tydfil - 140.4p. Up 6.1p per litre.

It is estimated that the Iran war is set to cost UK motorists £15m a day in extra fuel costs as prices continue to spike upwards at petrol forecourts around the country. 

The impact of the price hikes means that the average cost of all the fuel bought each day in the UK is already costing motorists £12.9m more than it did before the war began on February 28, and that figure is set to pass £15m on current trends.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it has put fuel retailers “on notice” that it is stepping up monitoring of petrol and diesel prices in light of the Middle East conflict.

The CMA’s executive director for markets, Juliette Enser, said: “Whilst price increases might be inevitable because of rising wholesale costs, it is important that those increases reflect genuine cost pressures.

“We will be closely scrutinising and reporting on what’s happening with fuel prices and call out any concerning behaviour.”

Among the major retailers, Asda Express is charging the highest average price for unleaded petrol. The firm, which operates Asda service stations rather than supermarket forecourts, has an average price of 142.9p per litre - which is 12.1 p more than before the Iran war.

Esso, BP, Shell, Murco and Texaco are all charging motorists an average of over 140p a litre at their petrol stations.

Of the big four supermarkets, Tesco is charging the highest price at 138.2p a litre, slightly more than Morrisons (137.7p), Sainsbury’s (137.6p) and Asda (137.1p).

A petrol industry trade group pulled out of a meeting with Chancellor Rachel Reeves after accusing minister of using “inflammatory language” that has led to abuse against forecourt workers.

The Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) said executive director Gordon Balmer had been invited to take part in the Downing Street meeting with Ms Reeves and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband on fuel prices.

But it said Mr Balmer had withdrawn over concerns that recent language being used by ministers was inciting abuse against fuel retail staff by members of the public.

The PRA said “following several days in which ministers have suggested that forecourts may be ‘price gouging’ and ‘ripping off’ the motorist”, it had looked to get assurances from Ms Reeves’s office that the meeting would be held in private, but that this was not provided.

The PRA said it made the decision not to attend the meeting to “protect retail staff”.

On Thursday, the Competition and Markets Authority warned it was putting fuel retailers “on notice” of plans to step up monitoring of petrol and diesel prices in light of the Middle East uncertainty.

President Donald Trump has said he is not ready to make a deal with Iran to bring about the end of the war as "the terms aren't good enough yet". The President told NBC American forces had "totally demolished" military targets in Iran.

Israel launched "wide-scale strikes" on Iran overnight, with residents in southern Lebanon and Beirut ordered to evacuate. the country targeted heavily armed checkpoints in Iran, according to he Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, with an attack on a factory in Isfahan resulting in the deaths of 15 workers.

It argues the move fits in with its plans to "stimulate the ongoing regeneration" of the city centre. Following the proposed deal, the council expects the next steps would be a swift demolition of the building, which is currently empty.

The aim of the project would be "improving public space along Commercial Street after demolition", according to the report.

No detailed proposals for that improvement have been set out, but the council's placemaking plan – adopted last year – sets out general proposals for improving the look of the city centre, attracting more prosperity and footfall, and increasing the number of events.

The new report states "responding to vacant sites where the market is unlikely to deliver a solution is a central objective of the placemaking plan".

The purchase of the Commercial Street property will come with some risks, however, including the possible presence of asbestos.

Shared walls with neighbouring properties will also have to be secured if the building is knocked down, and there are also safety concerns given its location in a prominent shopping street.

It is estimated the demolition project would cost nearly £40,000 on top of the purchase price. Cabinet members are due to meet on Wednesday March 18 to discuss the proposals and make a decision on the property deal.

The development management committee for Pembrokeshire Coast National Park was asked to back delegated authority for prosecution proceedings to be brought before the magistrates' court. This was in respect of land south of Parc Yr Eglwys, Brynhenllan, Dinas Cross, which has been made subject to an enforcement notice.

A report stated a complaint had been received by the park in May 2023 regarding a green field being stripped of its vegetation by the new landowners and turned into a mobile home park. 

A planning contravention notice was served, following a site inspection, for the removal of hedge banks and hedgerows, the existing access to be widened, ground level alterations, track construction and storage container siting.

A planning application was retrospectively received by the park in 2024, for the retention of the hardstanding area siting of storage container and additional landscape works, but that was refused in May of that year.

The report said: "“As no voluntary steps were taken to remedy the breach of planning control and no appeal made against the refusal of planning permission, the authority considered it expedient to issue and serve an enforcement notice as the development and use of the land resulted in an unnecessary incursion into the rural countryside which causes a significant visual intrusion to the detriment of the special qualities of the National Park."

In January last year, an enforcement notice was served and the landowner lodged an appeal the following month with the Planning & Environment Decisions Wales. That was dismissed in June, and the enforcement notice took effect.

In June 2025, a further application was received, for a small scale seasonal campsite on the land, which was refused in October that year.

The landowner was told by officers that the enforcement notice remained in place until January 3, 2026.

Three days after that date, a site inspection was carried out and confirmed the breach of planning control. A further planning application to regularise the development was received on January 21, which was refused on March 9.

The report concluded: “The landowner has had multiple opportunities to regularise the development through both retrospective applications and an appeal against the enforcement notice. Those processes have not resulted in permission being granted nor compliance being achieved.

“The continued failure to comply with the enforcement notice undermines the integrity of the planning system and public confidence in its proper operation. “It also results in an unnecessary incursion into the rural countryside which causes a significant visual intrusion to the detriment of the special qualities of the National Park. “Officers therefore consider it expedient and in the public interest to pursue prosecution proceedings should the breach remain unresolved.”

The recommendation was backed by the park.

Under the new prices, a single ticket bought from the driver will rise from £3.00 to £3.10, while a return will increase from £5.70 to £5.90. Day tickets will climb from £7.00 to £7.30, with weekly passes rising from £25.00 to £26.30 and monthly tickets increasing from £80 to £84.

First Cymru says the changes are part of a regular fare review aimed at balancing rising operating costs while continuing to invest in services.

Passengers using the company’s Tap On, Tap Off system will also see small changes depending on how far they travel. The distance-based system was introduced in 2024 when the operator rolled out new Tap On, Tap Off payment technology across its network as part of a wider overhaul of fares and ticketing.

That shake-up also triggered criticism at the time after some ticket prices jumped sharply. Early changes to the pricing structure saw the cost of some day tickets rise by more than 40%, prompting complaints from passengers when bus users hit back at the price rises.

Under the Tap On, Tap Off system, fares vary depending on the distance travelled, with longer journeys capped. From March 29 that cap will remain £3.10 for a single journey and £5.90 for a return.

Pembrokeshire services follow a slightly different mileage-based structure, with lower starting fares for very short journeys but increases still being applied across most distance bands.

Despite the changes for adult passengers, fares for children and young people using the My Travel Pass scheme will remain unchanged. Single journeys will continue to cost £1, returns £2, and day tickets £3.

Main First Cymru fares (from 29 March 2026)

Tap On, Tap Off adult fares (distance-based)

Tap On, Tap Off fare caps

Pembrokeshire Tap On, Tap Off fares (from 29 March)

Children and My Travel Pass fares (unchanged)

The latest fare review comes after a turbulent period for the bus operator. In late 2025, drivers and engineering staff staged a series of walkouts as pay talks broke down, causing disruption across the region before unions eventually secured a new deal that was hailed as a major pay win for First Cymru drivers.

The agreement delivered a 5% increase backdated to April, along with staged rises that will see drivers’ pay reach £15 an hour by 2027.

First Cymru says passengers can still ensure they are charged the cheapest available fare by using Tap On, Tap Off when boarding and leaving the bus.

The new fares will apply across the operator’s network from March 29.

Mr Davies said the posts used images taken inside the school without permission and described many of the videos as “deeply upsetting, abusive, unkind and entirely untrue.”

Police contacted

The headteacher confirmed the posts had been reported to both TikTok and the police.

He warned that if the person responsible is identified, they could face severe consequences.

In the letter he wrote:

“If the originator is identified, the seriousness of these posts means that permanent exclusion is a possible outcome.”

Posting harmful or defamatory material online could also amount to harassment, defamation or malicious communications under UK law, he added.

Account deletes videos

The TikTok account believed to be linked to the posts has since removed all of its videos.

However, the account page still displays a message saying: “the videos have to be deleted im sorry but i will have a comeback and it will be 10 videos per day but not anytime soon.”

Its profile description also appears to challenge anyone reporting the account, stating: “snitch if u want they wont catch me | i take requests for teachers and students.”

“Cowardly behaviour”

In his letter, Mr Davies criticised the person behind the posts for attempting to remain anonymous online.

He wrote:

“What is particularly troubling is that the individual responsible appears to be taking pleasure in remaining anonymous, boasting that they ‘won’t be caught’. This behaviour is cowardly and has no place in our school community.”

Pupils who shared posts could face consequences

Although the creator of the videos has not yet been identified, the school said it can see the names of pupils who have liked, commented on or encouraged the content.

Those students could also face disciplinary action under the school’s behaviour policy.

Parents urged to check social media

Parents have now been urged to check their children’s social media activity and discuss the seriousness of the situation.

Mr Davies said:

“If they know who is responsible, the most honourable and responsible action is to ensure the posts are removed immediately and to inform the school.”

He added that while social media can be positive and creative, the posts circulating in this case were “offensive, harmful and completely unacceptable.”

Growing concern about children’s online lives

The incident comes amid growing national concern about how social media is affecting young people.

Earlier this month, Swansea Bay News reported how Llanelli MP Nia Griffith backed calls for tougher rules on children using social media, warning many parents are unaware of what their children are doing online.

Separate research highlighted on Safer Internet Day also revealed a stark gap in parental awareness. A government-backed campaign found half of British parents have NEVER spoken to their children about harmful online content, even though most 11-year-olds now own a smartphone and regularly use social media.

The findings warned that many parents simply do not know what their children are seeing on their screens.

Experts say regular conversations between parents and children about online behaviour are one of the most effective ways to reduce risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content and online harassment.

Paria Veisi was murdered in the conservatory of the home she had recently moved out of. A Cardiff Crown Court judge said Alireza Askari had murdered his wife because she wanted a divorce and had left him two weeks before, despite him having a new girlfriend in Iran. Mrs Justice Stacey said: "You would not let her have her own life and were jealous and resentful."

After murdering his wife, Askari recruited his aunt, Maryam Delavary, to travel from London to Cardiff and help him clean-up, bury her body in a pond in the garden and arrange for her blood stained clothes to be disposed of. 

Askari, 42, of Foster Drive in Penylan, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 25 years and 37 days. Maryam Delavary, 48, of White City in London, was jailed for five years and six months.

One of Paria's closest friends, Sara Rezaei, said Askari and Delavary's sentencing had brought some justice and would allow them to properly process her death, but acknowledged that nothing could bring her loving and caring friend back.

She remembered her for her extraordinary kindness, her radiant smile, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her.

Sara said: "Today's sentence will bring a measure of justice but nothing will bring her back. We can now at least start to properly grieve her and start the process of living without her.

"It's not one feeling. We feel that justice has been served but at the same time the feeling of sadness and pain is there as well.

"The whole process has been very painful but we are glad that at least some sort of justice has now been served and we know he will be in prison for the next 25 years. They are getting what they deserve."

Sara said Parias family and friends had been shocked by the brutality of her death.

Over the course of the two-day sentencing, Cardiff Crown Court heard how the 37-year-old was murdered weeks after moving out of the home she had lived in with her husband. She had run a hairdressing business from the conservatory of their home.

On April 13, 2025, Paria had gone to the Foster Drive house after a phone call with her estranged husband. She was working as a hairdresser at the Rey salon in Cowbridge Road East at the time.

Shortly after her arrival he stabbed her to death with one of the four kitchen knives he had bought earlier that day from Tesco with the intention of using them to kill her.

A witness who was in a car near the house at the time of the murder, at around 4.30pm on April 12, heard a scream which they likened to a horror film.

In the immediate aftermath, Askari changed his clothes and went to the David Lloyd leisure centre in Penylan to swim and have a shower.

A number of days later, Paria's body was found buried beneath patio slabs, soil and newly planted flowers which had been purchased from B&Q in an area which used to be a pond. She had suffered four stab wounds and two slash wounds to her neck and upper chest.

Sara said: "It was very very painful listening to the whole thing and the actions that happened before Paria's murder. We are all emotionally drained and filled with emotions.

"We were shocked at the brutality of the action. It was awful to listen to all that but what brought us some sense of comfort was that the judge has been fair to us and through the whole process we felt reassured that the judge would be fair."

Remembering her friend, Sara said she did not want her to be remembered solely as a victim but as who she was as a person. She said: "Paria was really, really kind. I can't describe how kind she was.

"She was loving. I want everyone to remember her by her laugh and by her smile. She had an amazing smile and she was beautiful.

"I want everybody to know that she was not just a victim but she was more than that. She was a caring friend, she brought joy to all our lives and whenever she was in the room the whole room would be brightened by her presence.

"It's so painful to see that her chance at happiness and her chance at having her own life taken away from her. We will continue honouring her memory and we will never stop thinking about her, she's going to stay on in our lives."

Six days after concerns were first raised about Paria's whereabouts by her friends, Alireza Askari was charged with murder, preventing lawful and decent burial of a dead body and assaulting a person occasioning them actual bodily harm.

In the days after the murder, Askari had travelled to Bannau Brycheiniog to find a site to get rid of Ms Veisi's body. He also sent fake messages to her friends and family on her phone in an attempt to lay a false trail.

Police went to his house on April 13 after concerns for Paria's safety. When Askari attempted to speak to the officers, Delavary told him in Farsi to "shut up".

When the officers went inside, a dining room table could be seen blocking the entry to the conservatory.

On April 15, Askari had travelled to Birmingham and bought caustic soda, a highly corrosive solution which he planned to use for the destruction of Paria's remains.

On his return to Birmingham he was arrested on suspicion of kidnapping his wife. Police found the containers of caustic soda in the vehicle.

He had tried to claim Paria was his carer, not his estranged partner, and he also tried to insinuate a mystery man called Hasan was responsible for her death, claiming he had received threats from the man.

A police search of his property's back garden led to the discovery of Paria's body.

Prosecutor William Hughes KC said: "Extensive efforts had been made to clean the conservatory floorboards. A large table [had been moved into the room] and was now taking up most of the conservatory itself.

"Extensive blood-staining was found beneath the floorboards.

"Paria was buried beneath patio slabs, soil and newly planted flowers, purchased from B&Q. The area had previously been a pond."

The court heard the defendants had used bleach and dusters to cover up the crime.

Mr Hughes said there were no defensive injuries to Paria's body, suggesting the attack took her "completely by surprise".

Maryam Delavary was charged with preventing a lawful and decent burial of a dead body and conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

Mrs Justice Stacey said the evidence against the pair had been "overwhelming".

She added: “In April, 2025, there was excitement for Paria, she was just starting a new life free of you, enjoying life in her new flat with her future to look forward to, free of fear from you.

“CCTV of Paria in work on April 11 shows a strong, confident, attractive woman with her new future ahead of her. Her life was getting better…

“She was just 37 years old. Friends and family have spoken of her vibrant personality, kindness and popularity. She was in the prime of her life.

“Her death destroyed her family’s happiness as you knew it would.” She said it had left her mother with the pain of being pre-deceased by her child.

“You murdered your ex-wife in a pre-meditated plan hatched at least a month earlier…

“You spent time choosing knives to buy in order to kill her.

“When she arrived at 5pm, you lured her into the house and conservatory and stabbed her four times to the right side and front of her neck and chest.

“It went through her carotid and vertebral arteries and punctured her left lung.

“She was taken by complete surprise and had no chance to defend herself.”

The judge added: “Delavary, you set about the clean-up operation in earnest with your nephew. You discussed how to clean and hide (Paria’s) body.

“You dumped her in a pond in the garden and covered it with paving stones with compost situated on top.

“The next day you made arrangements for her blood stained clothing to be disposed of.

“You sent messages to friends and family from Paria’s phone that she would be away for a few months and not to worry about her.

“Of course they were desperately worried about her and called the police.”

Referring to Askari again Mrs Justice Stacey added: “You killed your ex-wife because she wanted a divorce and left you two weeks before. You would not let her have her own life and were jealous and resentful.

“Your hypocrisy was staggering. At the same time you wanted her out of the way to be with your new girlfriend in Iran.”

Following the conclusion of the sentencing, Paria's sister, Heliya Veysi, said losing her sister was a wound that time would never be able to heal.

She said: "Today's verdict will never bring Paria back to us, nor can it heal the deep and lasting pain of her loss. However, it is an important step towards justice and accountability.

"Our family sincerely thanks South Wales Police, the judicial system and all those who, with dedication, responsibility and persistent effort, played a role in ensuring that justice was served.

"Paria was not just a victim, she was a beloved daughter, sister and friend, who was kind, full of life and deeply loved. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts and the pain of losing her is a wound that time will never fully heal."

A joint investigation by South Wales Police’s Online Investigation Team and the Digital Forensics Unit traced the material back to devices belonging to Jones. What they found was vast and serious: thousands of images and videos, including a large number in the most extreme category.

Jones eventually admitted a string of offences. He had been making and distributing indecent images of children, as well as possessing prohibited images and extreme material involving animals.

He has now been jailed for 28 months.

Detective Constable Thomas Connick said Jones “knew exactly what he was doing” and that his actions had caused “immense distress” to his family and community.

“Offences involving these images are not victimless,” he said. “People who access them create a demand that can only be met by the further abuse of vulnerable individuals. South Wales Police will continue to target anyone who enables or encourages this.”

The authority had awarded businessman Michael Border a lease for the Alpine-style building in 2023, and he spoke of plans for a cafe-restaurant, a street food kitchen and an external serving area for drinks and ice cream. Community activities were also in the offing to position the building as a real local hub.

Mr Border, a joint director at Tifa Property, said at the time: “It’s great to be taking it over. It was sad to see it in disrepair. The feedback has been really good. People want this to be something again and not fall into disrepair, it’s a landmark.”

Grade two-listed Swiss Cottage was badly damaged in an arson attack in 2010 and, despite being restored externally, has proved a hard sell despite its fine south-facing views across the park towards Swansea Bay.

A fair bit of refurbishment work is still needed internally but Mr Border, speaking in 2023, said this was “nothing too troubling from a build perspective”. He added that heritage funding would be needed to make it viable. 

Council leader Rob Stewart, when asked by a group of oppostion councillors last week why there had been no development at the cottage, said the prospective tenant had formally withdrawn “notwithstanding considerable support from council officers”.

A council spokesman said it had provided considerable support to help restore the building’s exterior. “While it’s disappointing that the current leaseholder at Swiss Cottage has decided to surrender the lease, we remain committed to finding a suitable sustainable and will now look at alternative options to achieve that,” he said.

The cottage, built in 1826, was designed by Peter Frederick Robinson, who also designed nearby Sketty Hall for the Vivian family in the early 19th Century. Mr Robinson had visited Switzerland and been impressed by the timber-built houses with balconies and external stairs.

An inscription in German on the front of building translates as, ‘Live that you may live again’.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service contacted Tifa Property to speak to Mr Border but no-one responded at the time of going to press.

The Kings Local convenience store will be on King Edward, Brynmill, near Truffle restaurant, and owner Jenan Ragunathan applied to Swansea Council for a new premises licence allowing the sale of alcohol from 6am to 2am seven days a week.

South Wales Police objected, saying such late opening hours would attract an element of anti-social behaviour and encourage people from outside the area to drive there late at night. The force requested a closing time of 11pm and two additional conditions: no single cans of alcohol above 6.5% strength to be sold; and a personal licence holder to be on duty at all times for the purpose of selling alcohol.

There were six other written objections, including from a Truffle member of staff. 

A council licensing sub-committee heard further representations when it met to consider the application, including from a police representative who said a 2am licence would have a detrimental impact on families, elderly people and students in a densely-populated residential area, although she said some students would make use of the late opening.

A Truffle representative said he was concerned that the late sale of alcohol could lead to people congregating outside the shop, potentially deterring restaurant customers. He also raised parking and litter concerns. He said Truffle, which has an 11pm licence, didn’t have large parties and limited the amount of alcohol customers could bring themselves. “We find our clientèle are less rowdy, and more inclined to come and enjoy the food,” he said. “It is a quiet street at the end of the night.”

The owner of a nearby café said people were worried that the late sale of alcohol proposed would attract “the wrong type of people”. She added: “I’m not opposing there being a shop, it’s just the late licensing – that’s my problem.”

Mr Ragunathan’s legal representative said his client would amend the proposed sale of alcohol to 11pm instead of 2am and that the shop would also close at the earlier time.

He said Mr Ragunathan was investing quite a lot of money in the new convenience store, that he knew how to run them, and that an operating schedule had been drawn up. He also described the area, which several has shops, pubs and other businesses on adjacent Brynymor Road, as having a commercial mix.

“People are concerned about people congregating – I would say it’s not unmanageable,” said the legal representative. He added that CCTV would cover an area outside the shop as well as inside, that Mr Ragunathan would install a bin outside and make sure the area was clean, and also have lighting in keeping with nearby businesses.

The legal representative accepted the police’s recommended condition not to sell single cans of alcohol above 6.5% strength, but felt the request that a personal licence holder be on duty at all times for the purpose of selling alcohol was not “proportionate or fair”.

The sub-committee retired to consider the evidence and awarded the amended licence setting out the 6am to 11pm hours. Sufficient litter bins at the exit or just outside must be provided for customers, CCTV must cover directly outside the shop, and clear notices must be displayed requesting customers don’t loiter or congregate outside or in the immediate vicinity.

Reagan Chan, who shares content under the name The Chan Family on TikTok, recently disclosed what transpired by posting a video which subsequently went viral. Whilst parenting is full of surprises, there are certain things that people simply don't anticipate.

This isn't the first instance of someone discussing the use of baby monitors either. A few years ago, another mum shared her horror after using this technology.

Reagan uploaded the video with the caption: "POV: What the baby monitor sees every night", and the footage has left viewers stunned. In fact, it's since been watched over 40,000 times as people are captivated by the unfolding events.

The video then shows the toddler throughout the night, adopting a variety of positions. At one stage, he appears to be exercising before he dangles over the side of his bed.

He's also observed moving around during the night, and sleeping on various items in the room. It reaches a point where he even manages to fall asleep on the floor following all the activity.

The video is so outrageous and amusing that viewers couldn't resist reaching out to Reagan with their comments. It appears that infants truly do engage in all sorts of antics when no one's watching.

One individual joked: "How'd you become an Olympic gymnast?' Well, my mum let me stay up all night practicing in my room as a kid'."

Another queried: "So, do you just let him be all night or do you pop in there once in a while and get him to sleep?" To which Reagan responded: "He usually goes to bed by himself pretty fast."

A third commented: "They say when a baby goes through sleep regression it's because they are gaining a new skill. Clearly this one craves gymnastics."

Meanwhile, a fourth remarked: "You know, as long as he's quiet and not hurting himself, I don't see the issue." Another added: "Can't wait to see him in the Olympics."

It's safe to say many people, including Reagan, were taken aback after viewing the footage. Several were astounded by what they witnessed.

Audiences believe he has a future in gymnastics, and were left utterly amazed. One even questioned what his parents were feeding him given his seemingly boundless energy.

Someone quipped: "I've heard of sleep walking before but never sleep gymnastics." Another also observed: "Honestly, I love that he has a way to tire himself out by himself at night, and then can go right back to sleep when he's ready."

From summer 2024 onwards, Ceredigion County Council said its public protection team issued ongoing verbal and written advice to Christopher Wise of Llainweddfa, Betws Ifan, urging him to repair his boundary fencing.

His goats had been found wandering into private gardens, farmland, and onto the highway, creating risks for residents and motorists, the local authority said. 

Despite this advice, the fencing was not repaired and incidents continued until March 2025.

"Mr Wise gave several reasons for the lack of repairs, including hot weather and claims that badgers were digging under the boundary," the local authority said.

With no improvement and further complaints received, the council began legal proceedings.

On March 5 2025, Mr Wise appeared at Aberystwyth Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to breaching a Community Protection Notice under the Anti Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

The court issued a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), giving him 12 weeks to repair the fencing.

However, problems continued. On June 13 2025, officers again saw goats roaming between his property and neighbouring farmland and damaging crops, confirming that neither the notice nor the CBO had been complied with.

Mr Wise was summoned back to court on February 3 2026, where he again pleaded guilty - this time for breaching the Criminal Behaviour Order.

At sentencing on February 25, he received a 12 month Community Order The order requires Mr Wise to complete 15 rehabilitation activity days which are structured sessions that must be completed under the supervision of the Probation Service.

He was also fined £80, plus a £114 victim surcharge. The council was also awarded £300 in costs.

Councillor Matthew Vaux, Ceredigion Council cabinet member for partnerships, housing, legal and governance and public protection said: “Straying livestock can put motorists and neighbours at risk. Our officers gave repeated advice, and the court set clear requirements.

"Where notices and orders are ignored and problems persist, we will act to protect the community and uphold the law. Of course it is for the court to decide the sentence”.

But their secret romance was rumbled when he became "overprotective" of her and began attacking other prisoners whom he believed had stepped out of line with the mum. The authorities then discovered a mobile phone hidden within a sock in his cell, with more than 1,000 messages which were uncovered as a result having laid bare the true nature of their relationship.

Liverpool Crown Court heard today, Tuesday, that Oldham had been a guard at HMP Risley in Warrington for five years by 2023, when she engaged in an "intimate relationship" with Smith over the course of several months. This "included her sending images of her genitals" and money being transferred into the 29-year-old officer's account.

Simon Christie, prosecuting, described how there was also a "strong inference that there was a sexual relationship", although no specific acts were ultimately identified. Concerns were first raised over the two in March of that year after Smith "became overprotective over Ms Oldham and carried out assaults on prisoners who he believed had disrespected her".

This led to a search of the 32-year-old inmate's cell, which revealed a mobile phone hidden inside a sock. When analysed, the device was found to contain a total of 1,184 messages which had been exchanged between the couple.

Mr Christie added: "Amongst the other images found were full face images of the defendant, images of her in her underwear, images of a female masturbating with a sexual aid and images of female genitals sent to the defendant Smith. He, in return, sent topless pictures of himself. The two of them say on many occasions how much they love each other."

Oldham, of Marlborough Road in Accrington, Lancashire, was also said to have given Smith her bank details, leading to funds of "at least" £350 being transferred into her account via his sister. She has no previous convictions.

Damian Nolan, defending, told the court: "I am probably going to concede that the gravamen in this case is the public interest in ensuring that the prison system operates in a carefully ordered way. If it does not, the ramifications can be significant.

"But this offence can be committed in a number of different ways. We would submit that, ordinarily, the courts will be particularly concerned if items were being taken in, either weapons, phones, drugs or other associated paraphernalia. Thankfully, this is not one of those cases. But what she has done is allow her office to be corrupted by, essentially, a combination of Smith's actions and her actions.

"This is not someone who has been reckless throughout while she was a prison officer. It is asserted that, on a previous occasion, she had, in fact, reported inappropriate contact from a serving prisoner. She was commended for doing that and indicated that she would not go back on the wing until that had been dealt with.

"This all arose at a particularly vulnerable time for her personally. She is the mother of a young child. She was at a vulnerable time in her relationship with the father of her child. I am informed that, for some time, they have been back together as a couple and live together as a family. She had to move out of her own accommodation because she lost her job.

"This has been the most salutary of lessons for her. She lost this employment. She tried other employment, but that fell away when this was reported. This has, in effect, haunted her since she was first arrested.

"The first date placed on this indictment is now almost three years ago. She got subsequent employment, but social media did its best so that she had to resign from that company. She hopes that, because she did that, she can reobtain that employment. She is, at the moment, on state benefits, but she is very much keen to work and put this aberration on her otherwise exemplary character behind her.

"No one knows more than her just what a grave error of judgement she made with Smith. She has been haunted by that and will remain so. The court can mark the offence by saying, in effect, that this was worthy of a prison sentence but suspended, so that she can continue to rehabilitate.

"Obviously, there is a very stark choice. While she has had to make certain arrangements, the ideal would be that she is not separated from her young daughter. It is clear that she has learned a lesson. She will not work in the public sphere in that way again.

"The court can be satisfied that she will return to a law abiding life. She is a good mother, as all the references attest to. She wants to set good standards for her daughters. She has slipped, but that does not stop her from being a good mother.

"The ultimate sacrifice, namely going to prison immediately, in my submission, can be avoided in this case. The height of it is an intimate relationship, embarrassing to her. All of her family and everyone that she knows know what she did. Three years have passed since the commission of the offence. She has demonstrated humility about that."

Oldham admitted one count of misconduct in a public office during an earlier hearing. Appearing in the dock wearing a brown fur coat and sporting long brown hair, she was jailed for eight months.

Sentencing, Judge David Swinnerton said: "You were, in March 2023, working as a prison officer at HMP Risley. You had been there for about five years by then. You were not a very junior officer. You had some experience.

"What was discovered upon seizing a phone found in the cell of Lewis Smith, hidden in a sock, was that you and he, he being a serving prisoner, spent some months conducting an intimate relationship. That is not to say that there was physical sexual activity between you, but the nature of your messaging was intimate and romantic. That went on for some months. This was not just a one off. You knew full well that it was wrong.

"It is a slightly double edged sword. You chose not to report the initial contact because you were not satisfied with the way that the prison service had dealt with contact from a previous prisoner. You had been trained what the right thing to do was.

"You must have known how undermining it is of prison discipline if officers have relationships like this with prisoners. You are not only letting down the public, who place trust in those that are employed as prison officers, but you also badly let down your colleagues. It makes their lives more difficult and risky when prisoners are able to manipulate officers.

"You did not take anything into the prison for him. If you had, your position would have been much, much worse. But you made yourself very, very vulnerable. You accepted money from him. Two separate sums of money were transferred to your account by his sister, you having provided a serving prisoner with your bank account details.

"If you had stopped for a moment to think, you would have realised just how foolish that was, just how vulnerable that made you and just how vulnerable that made the security and safety of the prison. With relationships like this, there might be a risk that you will be leant upon, even blackmailed. You knew full well, throughout the months that this went on, that this was wrong.

"The authorities make clear that punishment and deterrents are always very important elements in such cases. Really, the cases where suspension is justified are exceptional.

"You are of previous good character. This began at least three years ago and ended two-and-a-half years ago now. In that time, you lost your job as a prison officer. You sought other employment, which you lost after publicity about what you have done. But you have stayed out of trouble. You have tried to work and continued to look after your daughter.

"It is an important factor, of course, that you have a now five-year-old daughter that you are the primary carer for, albeit you are now living at your father's house with him and her father. You do not present a high risk of reoffending

"Immediate custody will result in a significant harmful impact on others. You have a dependant child, albeit she can stay where she is and has her father and grandfather with her. But I have to weigh against that the seriousness of the offending.

"I have taken the view that appropriate punishment can only be met by immediate custody. Prison officers have to realise that they cannot form these inappropriate relationships. It carried on for months. You won't be away for very long, but the punishment is going away at all. The message is that immediate imprisonment follows, almost always, in cases of this nature."

Smith, of Abbey Hey Lane in Gorton, Manchester, was handed a further eight months imprisonment by the same court in December last year. He pleaded guilty possession of a mobile phone in a prison and possession of a class C drug in a prison, the latter count relating to anabolic steroids which he was found with while serving at HMP Wymott in Lancashire.

Baby Cleo Gray was born with the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck on February 21, at the John Radcliffe Hospital Women’s Centre. She was delivered by her dad Matt, a former ambulance technician, after a "panicked" midwife left the room.

British tourists planning to visit destinations such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are advised to review their travel plans. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its guidance in response to the conflict.

The Foreign Office currently warns against travel to the UAE and urges those already in destinations like Dubai and Qatar to shelter in place and to limit movements to “essential journeys only".

As a result, British Airways has issued a major travel update for customers on flights to the UAE. In a statement on its website, BA announced that flights to Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, and Tel Aviv are cancelled through March 28, while flights to and from Abu Dhabi are suspended until later this year.

While the airline has not specified the number of cancelled flights, its previous daily service to Abu Dhabi suggests that hundreds of flights have been grounded.

The airline writes: "Due to the continuing uncertainty of the situation in the Middle East and airspace instability, we’ve had to temporarily reduce our flying schedule in the region.

We’ve cancelled all flights to and from Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai and Tel Aviv until later this month and to and from Abu Dhabi until later this year. We’re keeping the situation under constant review and are in touch with our customers to offer them a range of options.

"We have limited seats remaining on our repatriation flights from Oman (Muscat) to London Heathrow on 11 and 12 March for customers with an existing booking. Following these dates, the flights will pause due to reduced demand, but will be kept under continuous review."

Thousands of passengers have been affected by airspace closures, disrupting major airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. Some travellers are stranded in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia.

As of Tuesday, 10 March 2026, Dubai International Airport (DXB) remains operational with limited service. Flights have resumed in phases following initial disruptions, but significant issues continue due to ongoing conflict and airspace restrictions.

The disruption to aviation resulting from the US and Israeli attack on Iran has been extensive. Of 38,193 flights scheduled to depart or arrive in the Middle East since February 28, 21,915 have been cancelled.

Recent figures indicate that most routes are returning to near-normal operations. Of the 4,783 flights scheduled for today, 1,107 have been or are expected to be cancelled.

If you are scheduled to fly to or from the Middle East in the coming days, please check your airline’s website for instructions and consult the Foreign Office website for the latest guidance.

Health visitors work with families for regular reviews from birth to three-and-a-half years. Ms Emmanuel works with 140 families in her patch, she said.

She is one of those who say they are being systematically underpaid for their role. Unite members have been on strike since February 23, with the strike to continue until March 20, but it could go longer.

The union say the health board has refused to acknowledge its own job descriptions and pay health visitors accordingly which, the union say, is costing health visitors between £8,000 and £9,000 per year dependent on where workers are on their pay scale.

Ms Emmanuel said: "My families have been so supportive, they're all behind me.

"I want to apologise and say sorry that I'm not in work at the moment, I'm not there supporting them like I am usually, five days a week, I've got such excellent relationship with my families, I am so lucky.

"So I do apologise to them but they're all behind and I do miss them and I can't wait to get back to work.

"Everybody who knows me, knows how much I love my job. I said to my son on first day of the strike 'do a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life' and that is how I feel about my job and it makes me feel quite emotional.

"I just want to get back to work but everyone's so supportive, all the families are supporting me, they came to Ponty Park on Friday, they came down on the train, they've turned up to play groups and have spoke on my behalf so I'm so lucky but we just need the health board now to come back around the table and get us all back doing what we love because we just all want to get back work," she said.

Being on strike was, she said, a last resort for her and her colleagues who worried for their families.

"This is not something we've taken lightly. This is the last resort and we've been pushed into this with no other option.

"We did action short of strike two years ago but unfortunately that hasn't got us anywhere, so we had no other options than to do a full strike this time and it wasn't a decision that was taken lightly.

"We've been so upset. The first Monday, on the 23rd of February. I didn't know what to do with myself, I was lost. I just wanted to go to work. But everyone is behind us and we will be back and it won't be long, hopefully, but it's time to contact now, to come forward and do the right thing."

She said she worries issues are being missed, in an area which has deprivation. 

"In the early days is when we build our relationship with the families and unfortunately we're not in work now to build those relationships.

"I drove through the community yesterday and could see balloons outside a window of a house that I know one of my mums have had a baby and that upset me.

"I should be there now visiting weekly supporting her, getting to know her and the baby and that isn't happening.

"But it's down to the health board now to recognise our value. They need to appreciate what we do day in, day out, supporting these families. Also as well we live in quite a vulnerable area so the deprivation is quite high and we definitely are being missed I know that I just hope that you know nothing catastrophic happens really and we all get back soon."

The striking workers walked across Cardiff Bay, protesting at the Senedd.

Hours later, the issue was brought up in the Senedd, with Plaid Cymru MS Heledd Fychan raising it with the First Minister.

Ms Fychan said "it cannot continue".

The First Minister said they had a "critical role" and they should be given the "honour and distinction they deserve".

"I want to see both parties finding a resolution to this dispute that is fair to health visitors, to patients and to the NHS," the First Minister said.

She was criticised for refusing to get involved in the dispute.

"I'll repeat that this is a local employer-led dispute. This is unilateral local rebanding, that would have system-wide consequences. I just want to be clear about what you are saying here, just so that the people of Wales understand that, if Plaid Cymru ever got into power, if ever there were a local issue, Plaid Cymru would step in. You would step in for health boards, for education, for all of the issues that they're responsible for. Have we all heard that? Let's just understand what you are saying and what you're committing to, because that is not how Government works."

A spokesperson for Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said: "The health board has been in discussion with Unite and health visiting staff since a formal dispute was lodged in February 2024.

"The dispute, at that time, asked for the Band 6 health visitor job description to be updated to reflect the duties of the role, and to re-evaluate the job. A process to review and agree the revised job description took place, facilitated by NHS Wales Employers.

"The job description, which was agreed in social partnership, was re-evaluated, and came out at the same band, Band 6. The job description was issued to health visiting staff and remains in effect. A Band 7 job description has not been agreed in partnership to date at CTMUHB, or on an All-Wales basis by NHS Wales Employers.’

“It is important to recognise that the pay banding for health visitors in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board is the same banding for health visitors across England and Wales.

“It would therefore be inappropriate for CTMUHB, as an individual health board, to work in isolation to re-band its health visitor workforce.

"The health board is aware that, over recent years, there have been changes made to education requirements for health visitors, as a result of decisions taken by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, which have more recently impacted national profiles for health visitor roles across the UK.

"The health board is committed to working through the implications of these changes in social partnership with trade unions, and an expert partnership group has been established in NHS Wales to take these discussions forward.

"We respect the rights of colleagues to take industrial action and will work with teams to minimise disruption to families across our communities as required."

Cherish Bean, 15, and her boyfriend, Ethan Slater, both from Sheffield, were enjoying a family holiday last month at Little Eden Holiday Park in Bridlington when the pair were tragically found deceased.

The opening of the inquest at into their deaths at Hull Coroner's Court revealed the teens were both "fit and well" when they spent the evening together with their family on February 17.

Senior coroner Professor Paul Marks said Cherish left the family cabin for a smaller one, known as the "Mancave", where she stayed with Ethan and watched television at around 9pm, reports the Mirror.

About an hour later, the youngster returned to the main cabin, complaining of a headache and took some Calpol because the family had no paracetamol.

After going back into the smaller lodge, the inquest heard Cherish sent a text to her mum after 10pm to say goodnight and that she loved her, Professor Marks said. He added that Ethan went back to the cabin at a similar time.

Detective Chief Inspector Ben Robinson, of Humberside Police, reported that four individuals "associated with the management and maintenance" of the holiday park have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. They were subsequently interviewed and released on bail, he added.

When questioned by Professor Marks if there was reason to suspect the couple's deaths were "associated with carbon monoxide poisoning", Det Ch Insp Robinson confirmed there was.

He informed the hearing that the official cause of death was still awaiting the forensic pathologist's examination.

Det Ch Insp Robinson stated that the boiler from the cabin had been retrieved and a forensic assessment had been conducted, aided by specialist gas engineers. He mentioned that both the Health and Safety Executive and the National Crime Agency had been consulted.

Professor Marks postponed the inquest until after the police investigation concludes. He expressed: "I would like, once again, to extend my condolences to both the families of these young people."

In a statement previously issued by the police, Cherish's mother said: "My perfect girl, my angel, has left this world and we are broken as a family. I am broken as a mother, and I will never ever be the same again.

"If you know me, I live and breathe my babies, and we were away for a few nights making the best memories ever. We have had the best life together and it has been ripped from under us."

He was responding to a CCTV query by another councillor, Will Thomas, who said some constituents he’d spoken to didn’t feel safe in the city centre, especially in the evening.

Cllr Stewart said: “I understand the perception that Cllr Thomas has highlighted there but it doesn’t match the reality, and in fact the data that is publicly available now shows that anti-social behaviour and crime in the city centre has fallen by over 50% in the last two years.”

Two days later, in a cabinet meeting, the Swansea Labour leader was talking about various council and private schemes coming to fruition in the city centre, and added: “And again, perceptions are important. I know and see the comments online from time to to time of people concerned about safety in the city centre, and whether or not there are issues in terms of crime.

“Well again, the figures tell a very telling story. Crime has fallen in the city centre by 50% in the last two years. Great work is being done by our police colleagues and our teams of rangers and others.”

Asked about the figures at the time by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, given the extent of the fall and how well it reflected on the city centre, Cllr Stewart indicated that they referred to anti-social behaviour reports and that he would look to provide wider crime data for the city centre and correct the record if required. 

The council did put out a press release last October about reports of anti-social behaviour in the school summer holidays dropping by 12.1% in the city centre, following a 38% reduction the previous summer.

The press release, which had quotes from Cllr Stewart and a South Wales Police inspector, highlighted work by the two organisations and other groups to get young people involved in various activities, workshops and events at a pop-up area in St David’s Square.

While this was undoubtedly positive news and there are different types of anti-social behaviour, crime has many more components. 

And figures now obtained by the Local Democracy Reporting Service from South Wales Police give a fuller picture of recorded crime in the calendar years 2023, 2024 and 2025.

The Freedom of Information Act response by police said there were 6,353 recorded crimes in 2025 where the location was recorded as Swansea city centre.

The figure was 6,635 in 2024 and 6,427 in 2023. This shows a 4.4% drop between 2024 and 2025, and a 1.1% per cent drop between 2023 and 2025.

The details reveal, among other things, that possession of controlled drugs rose during the three years, as did drug trafficking, while shoplifting rose then fell.

Assault with and without injury fell then rose, although in the case of assault with injury it increased by only one incident.

Burglary of “business and the community” and theft from a person dropped, while harassment increased as did robbery of business property. Public fear, alarm or distress increased and then decreased. Bike theft fell.

You can look at all the data here:

Meanwhile, the council has introduced two public spaces protection orders in the city centre to clamp down on anti-social behaviour. These orders give the authority, supported by police, extra powers to deal with the issue.

Swansea also has Purple Flag status – a scheme run by the Association of Town and City Management denoting a safe, thriving evening and night-time economy.

In response to the new crime figures provided by police Cllr Stewart, who has led the council since 2014 and is standing as a Labour candidate for the Gŵyr Abertawe constituency in May’s Senedd elections, said: “My reference was to the significant drop over two years in anti-social behaviour (ASB). The broader crime figures also show reduction but not a big a drop as in ASB.

“The increased level of policing in the city centre and the public space protection order has assisted in reducing the level of crime and ASB in the city centre.”

Andrew Douglas, the manager of business group Swansea BID, said organisations across the city worked hard to ensure it remained a safe and welcoming place for local businesses, visitors and investment.

He said: “Recent figures show a reduction in crime in the city centre, with shop theft down 14.5% year on year and anti-social behaviour down 6.2%.”

Mr Douglas added: “The latest figures from December show a 63% positive outcome rate for reported shop thefts in the city centre, up from 39% in 2024. Positive outcomes for anti-social behaviour have also risen significantly, reaching 87% in December compared with 32% the previous year.”

He said positive outcomes referred to when a case had been resolved, such as when an offender was found, charged, cautioned or appropriate action taken.

The business provided energy consultancy and data services to multi-site property portfolios, landlords, and infrastructure operators across the UK. It had traded strongly in 2024, but experienced cash flow challenges and a decline in revenues through 2025.

Matt Whitchurch and Jonathan Dunn, of specialist business advisory firm FRP, were appointed joint administrators.

Prior to appointment, FRP said it undertook an accelerated marketing process to explore options for the business and its assets. While there was initial interest from a number of parties, only limited asset sales were ultimately achievable. A solvent sale was explored, but did not proceed after interested parties withdrew. 

Immediately following their appointment, the joint administrators completed the sale of certain assets.

However, the sale did not provide for the transfer of the wider workforce and 138 of the company’s 143 employees have been made redundant. The joint administrators are supporting those affected with claims to the Redundancy Payments Service.

Mr Whitchurch, partner at FRP, said: “Amber Energy Solutions had established a well-regarded offering in its sector but was unable to overcome sustained cash flow pressures.

“We explored options to secure a wider going concern solution, however this was not achievable in the circumstances. While sales of certain assets have been completed, the majority of roles have unfortunately been made redundant.

"Our focus now is on supporting employees through the claims process and working to maximise recoveries for creditors.”

Its last published financial accounts with Companies House, for its 2024 financial year, showed the business experienced a strong rise in revenues on the previous year from £9.51m to £11.43m. It also posted an improved profit of £1.51m.

The business was set up in 2009 by Nicholas Proctor. It had featured in the Wales Fast Growth 50 initiative, an annual league table of the fastest-growing indigenous firms in Wales based on revenue growth.

The Clitheroe based man, 43, also had two children from a previous relationship. According to LancsLive reports his mental state deteriorated in the months leading up to his wedding on October 24 last year, he was reportedly experiencing "severe stress" relating to the day.

Just four weeks earlier, at his farm near Skipton, Edward's family had found him stood on top of a Land Rover and threatening to kill himself. They took him to A&E at Airedale General Hospital, with his mum Gillian later saying she was "desperate for help", but he was discharged three hours later.

Edward and his family had hoped that his anxiety would calm down after the wedding but his new wife Liz noted that, even on honeymoon, he "took himself off for a couple of hours". On November 15 last year, Liz had spoken to Edward after finding out he had sent some messages to a friend and fallen out with them.

Edward then "took his wedding ring off" and said Liz would be "better off without him". Liz tried to ease Edward and left him to continue working in the shipping container which he was converting into a workshop.

Their friends later arrived at 6.30pm for dinner, Liz sent Edward a text telling him that dinner was ready, but the message was never read. Edward's friend Rob Lancaster then went to find him but discovered the container was locked from the inside.

Rob heard a sound which "wasn't right" and he raced back to the house to get help. Rob then returned to the container, with Edward's wife Liz and her daughter Evie, and they used an axe to smash the lock off the door.

Edward was tragically found inside unresponsive, despite CPR attempts he was pronounced dead when paramedics arrived.

Inquest

An inquest into Edward's death, which was held at Preston Coroners' Court yesterday (Monday March 9), heard from Louise Batchelor from the Home Treatment Team who had assessed Edward three days after his suicide attempt on September 27 and said she concluded that he "had capacity" and therefore did not require admission to hospital.

Edward's sister Susannah, who gave evidence to the inquest via video link from New York, asked: "How can you say someone has capacity less than three hours after someone has tried to [take their own life]?"

Assistant Coroner Sian Jones pointed out that it had been a mental health nurse based at Airedale General Hospital who had made that decision but Ms Batchelor said: "[During my assessment] he engaged very well.

"Evie [Edward's step-daughter] was present and he was very transparent in front of her; she was a positive presence. He had full capacity and he said he regretted his actions and had been impulsive. His fiancée and children were protective factors.

"[There weren't] grounds for admission. At the hospital he was keen to go home and he was no longer expressing suicidal thoughts."

Psychiatrist was 'shocked'

After Edward's visit to A&E in September last year, he contacted a private psychiatrist and obtained a referral from his GP at Clitheroe Health Centre. He thereafter saw Dr Amal Beaini, a consultant psychiatrist of more than 40 years, who agreed that Edward did not present as an immediate risk of suicide.

"I had no concerns for the immediate future and, furthermore, his insightfulness and acceptance of what I was proposing gave me a lot of confidence," Dr Beaini added.

"He had done a lot of research and it felt more like I was talking to a colleague than a patient. That is why I was so very shocked when I heard he had died."

Edward's sister Susannah asked Dr Beaini if he had been aware that her brother had lost 27kg in weight in the few months prior to his death.

"He was pleased with what he had achieved," Dr Beaini replied. "He said he had done it through weight loss injections so it was intentional."

GP records

The inquest also heard a statement from a GP at Clitheroe Health Centre who detailed some of Edward's recent medical history. Since 2019 there had been several consultations concerning Edward's anxiety and stress relating to relationship problems, a marital breakdown and concerns about finances.

Not long before his death, Edward had resigned from his job with an animal feed firm, but his dad Jeremy told the coroner his son had been offered another job with a rival company. Although Edward had experienced increasing stress and anxiety about his upcoming wedding he was "committed to his partner and was looking forward to the future", the coroner said.

Conclusion

Although Dr Beaini told the coroner he "doubted Edward's intent" in the actions he took on the day he died, and believed they were impulsive, Assistant Coroner Sian Jones said that "in that moment" he knew what the inevitable outcome would be and returned a conclusion of suicide.

"I do think that Edward's behaviour was impulsive," she explained. "If someone had interrupted him he may not have done it but in the circumstances I do find that at the time that he [took those actions] and locked the doors it was his intention, at that time, to take his own life.

"He was away from the main home, he had locked the unit from the inside and he was unlikely to be found for some time. It was very difficult for people to get in.

"I am satisfied that in placing himself in the situation he did, and taking the steps that he did, he did so with the intention of taking his own life."

Tributes

After Edward's death, Clitheroe Rugby Club described him as an enthusiastic player who "had no hesitation in helping people out if they were stuck".

The club posted online: "As you may have already heard, we share with heavy hearts the tragic news of Ed's passing at the age of just 43.

"Many at the club remember Ed on and off the pitch playing in his free spirited way; as either a back five forward or sometime employed usefully on the wing using his large frame and long stride to good effect - wreaking havoc with unsuspecting defences.

"His enthusiasm to get stuck in made him a popular team mate in the maroon & gold colours. Prior to playing at Clitheroe he had had a spell as a junior over at Burnley, then Calder Vale RFC.

"Off the pitch Ed was a friend to many and had no hesitation of helping people out if they were stuck. With no fanfare he would turn up to lend a helping hand. That was the character of man he was.

"He even built, unprompted, our first scoreboard at the club - which is still in use today."

One of Edward's friends also spoke of his generosity. "Ed was a kind and caring soul," she shared.

"He once helped my friend who he didn’t really know fix her car when she had a prang. He looked after her whilst an ambulance came and returned the car to her husband completely repaired two days later. People like Ed are rare in life. I feel privileged to have known him."

The incident unfolded after Flint Town secured their spot in the Welsh Cup semi-final with a 5-1 win over Bangor at the Go Goodwins Stadium in Llandudno. North Wales Police said five people were arrested in connection with the "serious disorder" which happened outside a pub in the town following the match.

Footage shows police detaining a number of fans, with one officer pulling out a taser before asking people to step back. 

Bangor City said it was aware of the incident and the "ongoing police action". "CPD Bangor City 1876 has established policies and procedures to address any issues raised and will follow those processes should they be required," a statement from the club said.

The FAW said "violence has no place in football", adding that the association would assist with the police investigation if necessary.

North Wales Police said officers were called shortly before 4pm to an incident involving a large number of people outside the Nevill public house in Vaughan Street, Llandudno.

Five people were subsequently arrested on suspicion of public order offences, section 47 assault occasioning actual bodily harm and assaulting an emergency worker.

In a statement, Bangor City said it was aware of footage of the incident being circulated on social media.

"We understand the matter is currently subject to ongoing action by North Wales Police, therefore, at this time, the club is unable to comment further," it said.

"CPD Bangor City 1876 has established policies and procedures to address any issued raised and will follow those processes should they be required. Further updates will be provided if and when appropriate, until then the club will be making no further comments."

A spokesperson for the FAW said: "The JD Welsh Cup Semi-Final between Flint Town United and Bangor City 1876 at the Go Goodwins Stadium in Llandudno was played without incident.

North Wales Police asked anyone who recorded footage of the incident to contact officers.

Police have asked people not to speculate about the incident or post personal information, including names and photos, of those involved.

A police statement read: "Following the Welsh Cup semi-final between Flint Town United and CPD Bangor 1876 on Saturday (March 7), officers were called at 3.59pm to an incident of serious disorder involving a large number of people outside the Nevill public house on Vaughan Street, Llandudno.

"Five individuals were subsequently arrested on suspicion of public order offences, S.47 ABH and assaulting an emergency worker. This remains a live investigation including the reviewing of video footage and CCTV.

"We are aware of considerable interest on social media, including widespread sharing of recorded footage by people present, and we would ask anyone who recorded the disorder to send the video to us to assist in our ongoing investigations. You can contact us via our live webchat https://orlo.uk/MFpGN or on 101 quoting ref O035019."

Thomas thanked the Education Workforce Council Wales fitness to practise committee which judged that it would be disproportionate to strike her off, despite the seriousness of the conviction.

Visibly relieved at the outcome, Thomas told the panel: "Thank you for all your patience and understanding. Thank you." 

The young teaching assistant, who worked at St Thomas Community Primary School in Swansea, threw a hard plastic drink container at her victim, which caught her in the face and caused a gash to her forehead, Swansea Crown Court previously heard.

Thomas was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years, when she appeared before the court in November 2024.

Swansea Crown Court heard that on November 4, 2023 the complainant in the case – a student paramedic – was out socialising with housemates in Swansea's Wind Street and the group ended up in the Proud Mary bar.

Thomas and her sister were also in the pub that night. The court heard that as the group of friends left the toilets, one of their number accidentally bumped into the defendant, or her sister, causing a drink to be spilled. The group apologised for the incident and returned to the dancefloor.

However 30 seconds later Thomas approached the group of friends "aggressively" and began shouting at them and making threats of violence. The prosecutor said moments later Thomas threw her drink over the group and the container itself which struck the student paramedic in the face causing "immediate sharp pain".

Police were called and arrested Thomas outside the bar. The victim was taken to hospital where a 2cm-long gash to the forehead was cleaned and glued shut. In an impact statement read to the court the victim said the assault left her anxious, struggling to sleep and not wanting to socialise. She had also been conscious of the wound on her forehead which she felt people were staring at.

Appearing in court, Thomas, of Gelli Grafog, Port Tennant, Swansea, then aged 24, pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding.

As well as a suspended prison sentence she was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work in the community and to pay the victim £1,000 compensation.

The matter was then referred to professional registering body the Education Workforce Council Wales which has now heard the case.

An EWC fitness to practise hearing, held remotely on on March 3, 2026, was told that the offence, admitted by Thomas, was incompatible with her registration as a teaching assistant.

EWC presenting officer Kira Evans told the panel that Thomas' actions that night risked damaging the reputation of St Thomas Community Primary, where she had worked since 2017, as well as the teaching profession as a whole.

Thomas was present at the hearing, but not represented. Her request to give her evidence behind closed doors was agreed by panel chair Steve Powell.

But she spoke in public to confirm her name and that she admitted the two allegations before the committee - that she had been convicted and sentenced for unlawful wounding and that this amounted to a relevant offence in terms of her remaining on the EWC professional register as a teaching assistant. She also spoke in public to thank the panel.

Ms Evans told the panel that Thomas' actions that night "called into question her thinking skills and ability to exercise judgement". As a role model her behaviour had been inconsistent with a role in education.

"The sentence reflects the severity of the offence," Miss Evans told the committee. "It has material relevance to her fitness to practise and as a registered person."

But the panel judged that there were mitigating factors which warranted keeping Thomas on the register. Instead they imposed a reprimand which will stay on her EWC registration for two years.

Chair Steve Powell said Thomas had a previously unblemished record, had admitted the offence immediately and informed her headteacher of it the next day.

"She showed insight and remorse and engaged with the EWC proceedings," he added.

Thomas, who was described as under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offence, had explained to the panel, in private, that personal matters at the time of the incident had impacted her judgement.

Given these factors, the committee did not judge that there was a risk she would repeat the behaviour.

However, Mr Powell said her behaviour had been unacceptable and must not be repeated.

"This was a serious matter and a concerning lack of judgement, which she accepted," he said.

"The committee viewed this as an isolated incident."

He added that the panel commended the former teaching assistant for "realising her health was impacted and (had) removed herself from the school".

Drawing the case to a close he wished Thomas good luck and reminded her to abide by the EWC code of conduct in future.

She will have to notify any new, or potential new, school employer of the EWC reprimand on her registration.

Thomas has the right of appeal to the High Court within 28 days.

A cordon was erected outside the school and a large police presence was maintained at the site throughout Monday. Pupils and staff were eventually allowed to leave the premises on Monday afternoon, and a decision was made to close the school on Tuesday while investigations continued.

No arrests have been made, police have confirmed. 

On Tuesday evening it was revealed that a second threat was received by the school in the form of an email, which was reported to police on Monday evening.

Superintendent Gareth Grant of Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We understand this is a very unsettling time for the school’s pupils, teachers, parents and wider community.

“I want to reassure the public that there is no evidence to suggest any threat against any other schools or businesses in the local area.

“Our priority is to ensure the safety of pupils and teachers at the school, and we are working closely with Powys Council and the senior leaders at Ysgol Maesydderwen to this end.

“I want to thank the community for their understanding and patience while we carry out our enquiries. The impact of school closures on parents and carers cannot be underestimated, and I extend my thanks to everyone who has supported us to this point.

“You will see an increased police presence in the area as we continue our enquiries and provide reassurance to the local community.

“We will continue to share more information as soon as we are able to.”

Ysgol Maesydderwen will reopen on Wednesday, police added.

Despite numerous trips to her GP over three months where she was tested for thrush and STIs, which all came back clear, she was left in agony. After being referred to a hospital gynaecology department, a biopsy revealed Laura had pre-cancerous VIN 3 (Vulval Intraepithelial Neoplasia).

The hospitality worker underwent surgery to have part of her labia removed in July 2025 and later that month received the devastating news it had developed into vulval cancer. Laura then underwent another surgery to remove the lymph nodes in her groin in December 2025.

Now healing at home after being declared cancer-free, Laura is bravely sharing her story to encourage women to regularly check themselves and get anything unusual looked at. Laura, from Bristol, said: "A lot of young girls don't touch their vaginas, they don't look at their vaginas, it's a taboo thing to do.

"You have to know what it feels like, you have to know what is down there for you to know if something's not right. I think it [vulval cancer symptoms] really needs to be talked about and be advertised everywhere."

Laura was first alerted there may be an issue with her vulva in March 2022, while recovering from groin abscess surgery. While cleaning the wound, Laura became concerned that part of her vagina 'didn't look right', due to a swelling in her left labia.

As it wasn't painful, and was simply a little more swollen than the right-hand side, Laura brushed it off as 'just her anatomy'. Laura said: "I didn't worry about it at all, I just thought it was my anatomy. No one vagina is the same as the other. None of my partners have ever mentioned it, to me it was just normal, I just put it off as nothing.

"At the beginning of last year I was getting increasingly even more sore, to the point where I couldn't wear underwear, I couldn't walk and I couldn't sleep. I was in proper agony."

She told how she had suffered with thrush her whole life and said the doctors kept putting it down to that. she added: "Everything they tested me for - thrush, STIs, you name it they were testing me for it down there - all results said I had a clean bill of health.

"It was unbearable pain and I couldn't get rid of it. They [doctors] gave me local anaesthetic gel to numb it, but even that wasn't helping."

After being referred to a hospital gynaecology department in April 2025 a biopsy revealed she had pre-cancerous VIN3, before surgery results revealed it had developed into vulval cancer. Laura said: "[When they told me I had vulval cancer] I was more concerned about how it would affect my family.

"It's a very rare cancer and it normally shows up in women over 70. I'm only 31, they're saying it's probably down to my immune system and that HPV could be a factor.

"I do think about it and it does get me down. I'm only 31, I shouldn't be having this happen to me. I like to work, I like to be busy and the fact I can't do anything is driving me insane. Going to the toilet is very painful, it burns, and they've said it will affect my sex life."

Laura, who was told she was cancer-free on December 24, is now sharing her experience to encourage people to regularly check themselves. She said: "I've posted it everywhere I could. I've been speaking to everybody, everyone down my local shop, any women I speak to [about it]

"Even men I'm like 'listen, check your missus out'. Even my little nieces I've said to them 'look I know this is something you don't really want to discuss but you need to'.

"I think they should be testing you for that when you go for your smear, just checking it looks ok and if it doesn't, getting a biopsy from the area."

What is vulval cancer?

According to the NHS vulval cancer is cancer that's found anywhere in the vulva. The vulva is the area around the opening of the vagina, including the inner and outer lips around the vagina (labia) and the clitoris. Vulval cancer may be caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), or by skin conditions that affect your vulva.

Symptoms of vulval cancer can affect any part of your vulva, but they're most common on the inner and outer lips (labia) around the opening of your vagina. Symptoms can include: a lump, a sore, bleeding from your vulva, or blood-stained vaginal discharge, that is not related to your periods, itching that does not get better, changes to your skin, such as red, white or dark patches, a mole that changes shape or colour, burning pain when you pee.

Due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, Brits have been told to avoid dozens of destinations, including popular holiday hotspots.

The FCDO’s list of restricted areas now includes 76 countries and territories where certain zones are flagged as dangerous. Major winter-sun destinations such as Egypt, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are among those affected by the updated safety advice.

The warning comes as chaos hit major travel hubs over the weekend. Flights in and out of Dubai were suspended, leaving British tourists, including those from Wales, stranded abroad.

While Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reassured the public that the UK Government is working to keep citizens safe, the scale of the disruption is significant. Currently, 76 out of the 226 travel advice pages maintained by the FCDO contain warnings against travel.

Airlines, including British Airways, have confirmed they are "closely monitoring the situation" as large sections of airspace across the Middle East remain closed. Many carriers have already moved to cancel a string of flights to the region.

The full list, covers countries across the globe where tensions remain high.

FCDO advises against all travel

Afghanistan

Belarus

Burkina Faso

Haiti

Iran

Iraq

Israel

Mali

Niger

Palestine

Russia

South Sudan

Syria

Venezuela

Yemen

FCDO advises against all travel to parts

Algeria

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Benin – northern border

Burundi

Cameroon

Central African Republic

Chad

Congo

Côte d’Ivoire

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Djibouti

Egypt

Eritrea

Ethiopia

Georgia

India

Indonesia

Jordan

Kenya

Lebanon

Libya

Mauritania

Moldova

Mozambique

Myanmar (Burma)

Nigeria

Pakistan

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

Somalia

Sudan

Togo

Tunisia

Turkey

Ukraine

Western Sahara

FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Bahrain

Cuba

North Korea

Kuwait

Qatar

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts

Angola

Bangladesh

Bolivia

Brazil

Cambodia

Colombia

Ecuador

Ghana

Guatemala

Kosovo

Laos

Malaysia

Mexico

Papua New Guinea

Peru Rwanda

Tanzania

Thailand

• South Wales Police have appealed for information after 13-year-old Olivia was reported missing. The force has said that there is concern for her welfare.

• Olivia was last seen in Llanrumney, Cardiff, on Tuesday, February 24, almost a week ago.

• The schoolgirl is from Shropshire but was last seen in Cardiff. She has links to Splott and Tremorfa.

• If you have seen Olivia or have any information that could help police, contact the force quoting reference 2600059400, 2600059400.

A statement released by the council said it "does not recognise the suggestion that there are ongoing governance failings" and that it operates in accordance with its rules, statutory legislation, national regulations and its code of conduct.

Four of the five had walked out of a council meeting in October, expressing frustration that bodies responsible for upholding standards on local volunteer councils — which are permitted to employ their own staff — indicated they either wouldn't, or couldn't, pursue their complaints.

The dispute is believed to stem from the appointment of council clerk Mark Tredwin in September 2024, initially on a probationary basis, before being confirmed in a permanent role in 2025.

Complaints had been lodged against the clerk, who is understood to have the backing of a majority of councillors. The council has a full membership of 16, though it now faces six vacancies following the resignations and the recent death of a fellow councillor.

Amongst the concerns highlighted was a claim that a member of staff had been prevented from returning to their duties following sick leave, alongside internal personnel issues and tensions between the clerk and dissatisfied councillors.

The situation has now intensified following the departures of councillors Jill Bond and Rachel Grumach, who represent the West End ward, Tony Easson representing the Dewstow ward, and Castle Ward councillors Robert Wilsher and John Woodfield.

Three of the five were originally elected as Labour councillors, although Tony Easson, who also serves as a Monmouthshire County Councillor, was latterly listed as independent after his suspension from the Labour Party, whilst Rachel Grumach and John Woodfield stood as independents.

In a joint statement, the five said: "The decision reflects shared and long-standing concerns about governance, organisational effectiveness, and the overall working environment within the council, impacting delivery to the Caldicot community."

They said that over the previous 15 months they had attempted to tackle the matters through "proper channels" within the council and external bodies including the Welsh Local Government Association, Audit Wales, Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, the Information Commissioner's Office, One Voice Wales – the umbrella organisation for town and community councils – and Monmouthshire County Council's monitoring officers, as well as local Members of Parliament and Members of the Senedd.

"While these engagements were undertaken in good faith and in the interests of securing improvement, the councillors do not believe that sufficient progress has been achieved to address the underlying issues," the statement issued by the five said.

Caldicot Town Council's statement said resignations are "always a matter of regret" and thanked the five for the service but said there would be no detrimental impact on how the council functions.

It said: "Like many councils, Caldicot has experienced periods involving employment matters which have placed pressure on administrative capacity.

"Members have consistently been advised that the greatest risk to the council's effectiveness arises not from governance structures themselves, but from divisions within the membership and any failure to adhere collectively to agreed governance procedures, standing orders and the code of conduct.

"The council remains committed to transparent decision-making and to serving the residents of Caldicot. Work continues to ensure stability, continuity and effective service delivery."

Reports suggest the incident has taken place at Akrotiri, one of two UK Sovereign Base areas on the Mediterranean island, at around 10.30pm.

Some witnesses described an 'explosion' during the incident, which came just after Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the US could use British bases to launch attacks on Iran, as Israel and America continue to target the country.

No one is reported to have been hurt. It is unclear if the drone had hit the base directly or after it had been shot down.

The Cyprus Mail, a newspaper on the island, is reporting personnel at the two sovereign bases, which also includes Dhekelia, received a 'security alert' - and that personnel were told a 'small drone' had struck the site.

The newspaper reports that workers on the bases were told to return to their homes and stay inside.

It is unconfirmed whether Iran, which has fired rockets and drones at a number of neighbouring countries in retaliation for the Israeli-US attack which has killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamanei and many other senior officials, is involved in the incident at Akrotiri.

However it has struck at a number of other bases being used by the US, including in Bahrain and Qatar.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruled out the UK joining the strikes against Iran, saying the country had learned its lessons from the Iraq war.

Britain has also been involved in preventing Iran hitting targets elsewhere in the Gulf, with an RAF Typhoon destroying an Iranian drone that was heading for Qatari airspace.

Iran has launched strikes against a number of countries around the Gulf, as well as Israel itself, with all flights cancelled to many and the British government working to support hundreds of thousands of citizens in the affected countries.

Police officers, firefighters, ambulance crew, and a helicopter were all involved in fishing a sodden Ryan Rankmore out of the water, at which point he said to the emergency workers who had rescued him "**** you".

Cardiff Magistrates Court heard that on February 8 this year Rankmore entered a shop at the Welcome Break Services at Cardiff Gate and began filling a bag with items including ready meals, alcohol, and Lego sets.

The defendant was challenged by two staff members who told him to pay for the items but he responded by becoming verbally abusive and aggressive. As he was leaving the shop Rankmore hit a member of staff in the face with a can of Red Bull energy drink. 

The court heard that the incident was reported to the police and officers began a search of the area. Rankmore was sighted by officers from the local neighbourhood policing team but he ran off then jumped into the water to evade arrest.

A period of negotiation followed, with 42-year-old Rankmore threatening to go further into the river.

Officers from South Wales Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and the Welsh Ambulance eventually managed to get the defendant onto the river bank, all under the watchful eye of the circling helicopter from the National Police Air Service. Once he was on dry land Rankmore began swearing at officers while being arrested on suspicion of theft and assault by beating.

After his arrest, it emerged that Rankmore was on court bail awaiting trial for two counts of assault by beating in relation to an incident in June 2025.

Ryan Rankmore, of Bronte Crescent, Llanrumney, Cardiff, pleaded guilty to theft and assault in relation to the motorway services incident and to two counts of assault in relation to the June incident when he appeared before magistrates.

With a discount for his guilty pleas the defendant was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison. He will serve no more than half the sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community.

Speaking after the sentencing South Wales Police constable Jones said: "Rankmore’s actions on February 8 were inexcusable. No one should be subjected to violence for intimidation when they are just doing their jobs. His attempts to avoid arrest not only wasted emergency resources but were also pointless, as we were determined to hold him accountable for his actions. Rankmore’s additional assault charges highlight the aggression he poses, and I'm pleased to see him held accountable for all of his actions."

Tesco Clubcard Plus was introduced in the UK in November 2019 and is a subscription-based scheme costing £7.99 per month. The scheme offers perks including 10% off two "big shops" per month and reductions on selected sections of the store.

The scheme doesn't cover online shopping, click and collect orders or Whoosh, and discounts can only be redeemed when shopping in store.

One woman, Katie Mary, has been subscribing to Tesco Clubcard Plus for some time and shared how people are "outraged" over the fact she's paying the retailer for cheaper groceries.

Nevertheless, the mum-of-one stated she won't be returning to her old ways due to the additional savings she's making.

She said: "Guess what, I'm still paying for it and I'm still reaping the benefits and absolutely loving it. I genuinely don't think that there is a better supermarket reward system on the market than Tesco Clubcard.

"Even if you don't have Clubcard Plus, they do reward you really well compared to all the other supermarkets. So for those that don't know, because it's not widely advertised really, Clubcard Plus is £7.99 a month and for that you get 10% off FandF clothing all the time, you get 10% off FandF Home and you get two 10% vouchers every single month to use on your shopping.

"It says Big Shop on them but you can use it on anything really. So we've actually changed how we shop because of it, so now we only do two Big Shops a month and use those two 10% vouchers and every single month we save more than the £7.99 subscription.

"And that's before you even factor in normal Clubcard points, Clubcard prices and the extra offers. You obviously still collect your Clubcard points as normal as well, which you can then turn into vouchers or exchange for days out and things like that.

"This year, for the first time ever, I've actually locked mine into Christmas Savers. I know it's so early but I really want to see how many points we can build up by Christmas because I genuinely think we may be able to cover our December and January food shops completely just from Clubcard points alone.

"But honestly, if something consistently saves you more than it costs and potentially pays for your Christmas food shopping, I'm keeping it."

Following her savings revelation in a TikTok video, other users flocked to the comments section to share their own experiences.

One person said: "I've paid it for the past 2 years now! Really feel like it's valuable for me."

A second said: "We pay for TWO Clubcard plus subscriptions, one in my husbands name and one in my name. We save over triple what it costs, we're both Tesco mobile customers so we get double data and there's the permanent discount in FandF clothes. 100000% worth it for us!"

A third person commented: "I have Clubcard plus too, couldn't be without it now. You also get double data if you have a Tesco phone contract which I think is amazing x".

Several Cardiff schools have this weekend written to parents both to reassure them and ask them to discourage their children from attending the fights apparently being organised for Monday, March 2, with other fights throughout the week.

Nick John, the headteacher of Whitchurch High, one of Wales' biggest secondary schools, wrote in a letter to parents: "We would ask parents and carers to actively discourage their children from engaging with or sharing such content, and to remind them of the serious consequences of involvement in or promotion of violence.

"Any behaviour that places pupils or others at risk would be treated as a serious breach of the school’s behaviour and safeguarding policies and could result in sanctions, as well as potential involvement from external agencies."

The videos and still graphics circulating on social media are entitled "Cardiff War" and attempt to put schools into different teams for the organised fights. They list one side as the red team and one side as the blue team. They are directed at children in years 9 to 11 - aged 13 to 16. It lists a location for the fight.

A separate graphic is entitled Trowbridge/Rumney War and is directed at years 7-11, aged 11 to 16. It again lists the names of the schools and a time and location for the supposed fight. A separate page lists "the rules" as "Be Violent" and encourages pupils to use weapons such as metal protractor spikes.

St Illtyd's Catholic High School posted on social media to say: "We are aware of a TikTok post which is being shared widely on Snapchat and other social media platforms. This post is inciting violence within Cardiff schools and the wider community.

"Please make your children aware that encouraging others to commit acts of violence is a criminal offence and anyone who shares, reposts and encourages this behaviour could face police action.

"We have informed the police, the local authority and other relevant agencies of this post. We urge parents to check your child's phone. Monitor their interactions, especially related to this post and speak to them about the criminal nature of this type of action. We thank those parents who have reached out and brought this to our attention."

Ysgol Glantaf also wrote to parents to express similar sentiments.

Mr John of Whitchurch High said that the organised fights were "not specific to our school or to Cardiff alone, but reflects a national trend currently being monitored across the UK."

In London, the Metropolitan police has asked social media platforms to ban accounts promoting “school wars”. Other accounts are promoting fights in Northampton, Bristol and other UK cities.

Commander Neerav Patel, from the Met, said the force was aware of the posts and was in contact with several London boroughs to offer reassurance.

He said: “We continue to closely monitor online spaces and have worked with platforms to request a dozen social media accounts to be disabled where threats or violence were planned or encouraged.”

In a message to pupils, he said: “I would like to remind young people of the serious consequences of getting involved in matters like this.

“An arrest, charge and conviction for violence and carrying weapons could mean imprisonment, with a significant long-term impact on future opportunities.”

John Healey said the government did not believe they were targeting the bases intentionally, but said “it shows how indiscriminate” the Iranian retaliation to Saturday’s US-Israel strikes was.

He also said that 300 UK military personnel were close to targets that were hit in Bahrain.

John Healey told Sky News's Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme: "This is a really serious and deteriorating situation, (with) rising risks of increasing Iranian indiscriminate retaliatory attacks.

"Let me give you a couple of examples. Yesterday, we had 300 personnel on that Bahrain base that was attacked by Iranian missiles and drones, some of them within a few hundred yards of where they landed.

"We had two missiles fired in the direction of Cyprus. We don't believe they were targeted at Cyprus, but nevertheless, it's an example of how there is a very real and rising threat from a regime that is lashing out widely across the region, and that requires us to act."

The revelations came a day after Sir Keir Starmer said the UK had ordered “planes in the sky” over the Middle East on defensive operations to protect our allies.

Mr Healey repeated the prime minister’s calls for Iran to end its missile strikes and “steps back from its increasing uncontrolled indiscriminate attacks in the region” and “gives up its weapons programs.”

It came as the US and Israel launched waves of missile strikes on Iran in preemptive actions, taking out military infrastructure and the country’s leadership, including the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Mr Healey added: “Few people will mourn the Ayatollah’s death.”

The defence secretary said he was now more concerned about the repercussions of the attacks on Iran in the wider region.

He noted the 20 terror plots on the UK’s streets organised by Iran, the death of tens of thousands of its own citizens and the supply of 50,000 drones to Russia to attack Ukraine.

“Make no mistake that this is a regime which harasses other countries and can never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.”

Mr Healey declined to comment on whether the US-Israeli strikes on Iran were legal.

He told Sky News: "No one who has seen the way that Iran has menaced us and sponsored terror around the world, been a source of instability in the region, is developing a nuclear weapons program, can be under any doubt about the character of this regime, and the threat it poses."

Asked again whether the US action was legal, he said: "That is for the US to set out and explain. It's not for me, as defence secretary of the UK, I'm here to speak for the UK.

"I can speak for the very active participation that we have in coordinated defence across the region."

He noted that “everything the UK does is within international law”.

But Mr Healey also declined to say whether the UK may be drawn into joining the US and Israel in direct operations on Iran.

Describing UK operations, Mr Healey said: "When our UK planes fly from Qatar, they are protecting against any missiles or drones directed towards Qatar.

"When they fly from Cyprus, they're doing the same for Cyprus.

"But of course, when our planes are in the air and they see things, missiles or drones directed towards other countries, they'll take them down.

"So when I talk about Britain playing a role in reinforcing regional stability as part of co-ordinated regional defensive operations, that's what I mean."

The Rogerstone local began using sunbeds at 16, typically spending eight to ten minutes per session. Emma admitted that she would often left the sunbed burnt, yet was still allowed to continue. In some salons, she was even offered tanning accelerators - creams with no sun protection - while the risks were rarely, if ever, discussed.

"It just felt normal," she said. "Everyone I knew seemed to use sunbeds. It made me feel better about myself."

Throughout her late teens, Emma would often use the sunbeds before holidays, chasing what she believed was a "base tan." Now - while she cannot say for certain that sunbeds caused her cancer - Emma believes they were "likely a factor in me getting melanoma."

Emma gave up sunbeds in her early twenties after learning more about the dangers of UV exposure. But not long after, while applying sun cream at a party, she noticed what she thought was a smudge of chocolate on her stomach - it was actually a changing mole. She was diagnosed shortly afterward with 1A melanoma.

According to the NHS, melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells responsible for producing pigment. It can spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. The main cause is ultraviolet light, from both the sun and tanning beds, with risk factors including pale skin, a high number of moles, family history of skin cancer and age. Stage 1 melanoma, like Emma's, means the cancer was detected early and confined to the skin, giving her a strong chance of successful treatment, which usually involves surgery.

Despite the early diagnosis, Emma says the emotional impact was heavy. "I'd assumed cancer was something that happened when you were older. I wasn’t emotionally equipped to deal with it," she said.

However, this wouldn't be Emma's last confrontation with the disease. Years later, things took a devastating turn during a routine check-up while she was pregnant with her second child. Doctors became concerned about another mole, which was confirmed as melanoma shortly after her baby was born.

"The thought that I'd had my baby growing while I had cancer was horrible," she said. "It felt different the second time because I had children relying on me to be alive. The thought that I've done that to myself made me feel so guilty."

Since her diagnoses, Emma has had 10 moles removed. Most have been non-cancerous, but she describes the wait for results as "horrific." 

Now, she avoids sunbeds completely and uses fake tanning products instead, calling them a much safer way to achieve the same confidence boost.

Reflecting on her experience, she adds: "It is really not worth it, that momentary feeling of 'oh yes, my skin looks lovely and tanned'. It doesn't last. It's literally a moment."

Skin cancer is easier to treat when found early so it's important to know what to look for. Think ABCDE. Take time to regularly check your skin and moles for these warning signs:

• Asymmetry - one half looks different to the other
• Border - Unusual or uneven borders
• Colour - Patches with more than one colour
• Diameter - Spots or moles larger than 6mm in diameter
• Evolution - Changes in shape or size over time

If something doesn't look right, get it checked by your GP. Recognising the signs of skin cancer could save your life.

Now consultant-led, with four helicopters and a fleet of rapid response vehicles, it delivers 24/7, hospital-standard care to people across Wales, wherever and whenever they need it. The service is a mobile emergency department.

More than 56,000 missions have been conducted since the first flight a quarter of a century ago.

Dr Sue Barnes, the charity's chief executive, said: "Wales Air Ambulance was created by the people of Wales, for the people of Wales. You are a big part of this Welsh success story, helping us grow into the world-class service it is today.

"It costs £13 million each year to keep our helicopters in the sky and rapid response vehicles on the road. We cannot do what we do without your generosity and kindness.

"As we mark our 25th anniversary, we give thanks for all those who continue to support Wales Air Ambulance.

"Whether through regular or one-off donations, playing our lifesaving lottery, fundraising, offering services in kind, or using our shops, it all helps save lives across Wales.

"Of course, the service also owes much to those, past and present, who have been directly involved; Charity employees and volunteers, medics, pilots, engineers, allocators and patient liaison nurses. You can all take pride in the service you helped to create.

"We will be marking this special occasion throughout the year."

Dr Barnes added: "Our silver anniversary deserves a moment of reflection, but equally, it is an opportunity to look to the future. We have a duty to the people of Wales to improve our service and ensure its security for our future generations. We can only achieve this with the continuation of the incredible support we receive from across Wales."

"There have been many 'milestone moments' during the past 25 years", says Mark Winter, operations director for the charity's medical partners, the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS). Mark was a medic on the very first mission in 2001.

He continued: "Being on the first aircraft to take off, and the camaraderie among the first crew to make it work, is among my highlights.

"If anyone had said at the launch event for Wales Air Ambulance Charity that in 25 years, we would have four aircraft covering the whole of Wales, working overnight, with the most advanced interventions, I wouldn't have believed them."

Wales Air Ambulance takes hospital-standard treatments to the patient and, if required, transfers them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury. It is delivered via a unique third-sector and public-sector partnership.

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £13mi required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.

EMRTS supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the charity's vehicles.

This advanced critical care includes the ability to administer anaesthesia, deliver blood transfusions and conduct minor operations, all at the scene of an incident.

As a pan-Wales service, its dedicated crews, regardless of where they are based, will travel the length and breadth of the country to deliver emergency lifesaving care.

Lead consultant, Dr Ami Jones, was awarded an MBE in 2017 for her contributions to military and civilian pre-hospital critical care. She has worked on board the charity's vehicles for over 10 years.

She said: "As a doctor, you often treat one patient at a time. But being part of the team that helped set up the development of the consultant-led service in 2015 was a great privilege.

"You touch every single patient via your colleagues because if the service had not been put in place, no one would be receiving the care."

Past patient, Joanna Hicks, was on holiday in Pembrokeshire when she got into difficulty whilst swimming on Newgale Beach. Joanna was caught in a rip current and given just a 1% survival rate after being rescued. She spent 10 days fighting for her life in hospital.

A grateful Joanna said: "I cannot thank these amazing, truly impressive people enough. Without the Wales Air Ambulance, I really would not be here today to tell the tale."

Yet many recipients might be unaware that certain changes in circumstances require notification to the DWP, as failure to do so could affect their eligibility or payment amounts and, in certain instances, result in penalty charges or court proceedings.

Almost 20 different changes require reporting, including acquiring a new mobile telephone number or email address, transferring to another bank account, relocating home, and fluctuations in rental costs.

According to the Daily Record, DWP guidance on GOV.UK warns: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."

Change of circumstance you need to report to DWP

DWP guidance on GOV.UK advises that you must report any changes in your circumstances promptly to ensure you receive the correct monthly amount. It emphasises reporting changes 'as soon as they happen' because delays 'may result in receiving too much money and the need to repay it'.

DWP adds: "Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you’re paid for your whole assessment period - not just from the date you report them."

Changes can include:

1. Finding a job
2. Finishing a job
3. Having a child
4. Moving in with your partner
5. Starting to care for a child
6. Starting to care for a disabled person
7. Your child stopping or restarting education or training, if they’re aged 16 to 19
8. Changing your mobile number
9. Changing your email address
10. Moving to a new address
11. Going outside Great Britain for any length of time, if you live there
12. Going outside Northern Ireland for any length of time, if you live there
13. Changing your bank details
14. Your rent going up or down
15. Changes to your health condition
16. Becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach
17. Changes to your earnings (only if you’re self-employed)
18. Changes to your savings, investments and how much money you have
19. Changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen

Reporting a change

DWP states that claimants can notify a change of circumstances by logging into their online Universal Credit account.

If you get a job or increase the hours you work

Use a benefits calculator or consult your work coach to understand how gaining employment or a higher income could impact your Universal Credit claim.

Most employers will handle reporting your earnings. You typically only need to report your monthly income if you're self-employed.

If you have been paid too much by DWP

You may have to repay the money if you:

• did not report a change straight away
• gave wrong information
• were overpaid by mistake

Additional details about benefit overpayments can be found on GOV.UK here.

At the time, Ashleigh explains that she was missing the creativity of teaching and wanted something to keep her busy during maternity leave. Her content initially focused on affordable days out for parents.

But Ashleigh realised documenting family activities quickly became expensive which ultimately led her to turn to her weekly shop.

“I was on statutory maternity pay, which was diabolical, and the days out were costing me about £50 each time,” she explained. “I wanted to keep doing them because I loved it, but I couldn’t afford it.”

“I just looked at my food shop and thought, I’ll make sure I only spend £25 this week so I can still afford to do the days out,” she said. “I didn’t think much of it I just shared ingredients across meals.” After posting the idea online to her small audience, something unexpected happened.

"I literally just put it up and I only had a few followers and it randomly went viral,” she said. Within weeks, her following increased immensely from around 10,000 to over 100,000.

By 2020 she had built a six-figure online audience and secured a partnership with the supermarket Aldi, becoming an ambassador and in-house recipe writer producing monthly “five meals for £25” plans.

Her growth accelerated during the cost-of-living crisis, when more families began searching for ways to reduce grocery bills.

“I think people were panicking and looking for help, and the media started picking it up,” she said. “Lots of people became aware of my page and my followers just went through the roof.”

Before developing her system, she admits she regularly threw away unused ingredients.

“I used to do fridge clear-outs and just chuck loads in the bin half bags of spinach, cherry tomatoes, crème fraiche,” she said. Now, Ashleigh praises her ability of cutting down food waste at home and shopping for meals in a savvy way.

Her approach focuses on buying versatile ingredients that can stretch across multiple meals. “It becomes a way of life,” she said. “You start looking at ingredients differently how they can work in more than one meal instead of just one.”

Her first cookbook, Thrifty Feasts, released in 2022, became a bestseller, reaching number one in the Amazon charts and the Sunday Times list.

This year, Ashleigh now has released her second book, Five Meals for £25, which she says took around 18 months to complete and features 16 sets of meal plans.

“It’s about learning the skills,” she said. “The price might vary depending on where you shop, but the idea is teaching people how to stretch ingredients and plan properly.”

The success of her platform has also transformed her family’s circumstances. She lives with her partner and their three children aged six, three and one and says the opportunities created by social media have been life-changing. “I work with amazing brands and I’ve built this community of mums online. It’s honestly my dream job.”

Ashleigh's success was completely unplanned. “I didn’t even mean for this to happen,” she said. “It was just something to keep me busy while I was on maternity leave.”

Now, she remains focused on helping families navigate rising food costs and says she still feels grateful every day. “Not a single day goes by where I don’t feel lucky,” she said. “I work so hard because I don’t want this opportunity to slip through my fingers.”

Just days ago, shoppers and staff were shocked by the decision to close the long running store which celebrated its 123rd birthday in 2025. Marks and Spencer has always been a staple in Swansea, and as shops have come and gone over the years it was one of the rare locations that locals expected to stay.

As I'm sat in the cafe on a grey Thursday morning, the saying "death of the high street" has never felt more apparent as there's a sense of mourning in the air. 

Like a typical day the store is busy, and the restaurant is filled with old biddies catching up over a coffee. There's lingers of "I still can't believe it" and apologies to the staff who are set to lose their jobs. One woman shared that she is so upset about the news, and was really shaken when she read that her favourite store would be closing.

Over 90 members of staff will be losing their jobs when the store closes later this year and they have no idea what is coming next for them. I spoke to one staff member, who has worked for the company for over 20 years and there are still questions lingering for those facing unemployment. Will they be relocated? Will they have to look for a new job? Will this happen to other stores?

Meanwhile, punters are wondering where is the nearest location to get their M&S fix.

"Well, we can do our food shop in Fforestfach or Mumbles, but if we want to get some clothes we'll have to trek all the way to Trostre in Llanelli or even Cardiff."

When you see the usual hustle and bustle, you can't help but wonder why would they be closing. There's a clear demand from regulars who will have just months to find somewhere new to get their weekly afternoon teas, with rumours swirling that the shop will close in May.

Despite the sad news you can still hear ripples of laughter from tables of locals and staff, as everyone is making the most of what could be considered the hub of Swansea before it vanishes.

There's a real sense of community here, and honestly that is what makes it so sad. For some, heading for their weekly coffee catch up with their mates in Marks may be the highlight of their week and could even be the only time they really leave the house.

As a child, I would look forward to the occasional trips to M&S with my grandmother or my auntie. I'd feel so grown up. But then as I got older, that excitement faded and it became uncool. That was until I reached my mid 20s and began to truly appreciate the fact that this was a store that had everything in one place- good food and rather trendy clothes.

What used to be considered a shop for OAPs to get their quarter zip jumpers and their comfortable shoes, has become a hot spot for Gen Z to pick up good quality fashionable garments (I couldn't help but pick up a top in the sale during my visit).

With so many stores in Swansea disappearing due to financial pressures, like Woolworths, Wilko, Zara, Debenhams, Miss Selfridge, David Evans and now Marks & Spencer, I can imagine the footfall in Swansea will soon disappear too. This will inevitably have a knock on impact on other businesses in the area, and they're bound to be scared, especially if a big shop like M&S is closing, what hope do small independent alternatives have.

Walking through Swansea city centre feels quite bleak, as what used to be a bustling city full of clothes shops has been replaced with endless fast food chains catered to those nipping in on their lunch break. Gone are the days where you could spend a day shopping, as people pop in to town for an evening meal, head to the cinema or head down Wind Street on a night out.

It's such a shame that after money has been funnelled in to the likes of the arena, and the refurbishment of Castle Gardens, Swansea's high street feels almost like it is beyond repair. Those of us who are used to shopping online may not feel as impacted, but the biddies in Marks will definitely feel the loss.

It became the world's "Original Frying Range manufacturer", according to its website, and has continued to supply "bespoke" frying equipment to fish and chip shops across the UK ever since.

Its most recent clients include:

• Bennett's Fish and Chips (Weymouth)
• Donelli's (Loughborough)
• The Chippery (St Asaph)
• JB'S Fish & Chips (Poole)
• Shortstown Foodbar (Bedford)
• Ocean Blue Fish & Chips (Llandybie)

After 161 years in business, Henry Nuttall Ltd entered administration earlier this month.

Richard Oddy and Jonathan Mark Amor of Azets Holdings Limited were appointed as administrators on February 12 to oversee the process, according to Companies House .

However, it appears the business has been rescued, and is now a part of the RGM Leeds Group.

In a post on Facebook, Henry Nuttall Ltds said: "We’re pleased to share an important update with our customers and wider Henry Nuttall community.

"Henry Nuttall is now part of the RGM Leeds group, alongside Hopkins.

"This is a positive step that strengthens the long-term future of our business, while allowing us to continue operating as the independent brand you know and trust.

"For our customers, nothing changes. The same people, products, values and commitment to service remain firmly in place.

"Day-to-day operations continue as normal, with the added benefit of long-term investment and support behind the scenes.

"We’re excited about what the future holds and grateful for the continued support of our loyal customers, partners and community. More updates will follow as we move forward together."

Turbulent start to 2026 for UK high street

It has been a rough start to 2026 for the UK high street, with several retailers entering administration and others announcing widespread store closures.

Major high street retailers, including River Island , Primark, and Poundland , have been forced to close stores already in 2026.

Revolution owners The Revel Collective also closed 21 bars across the country in January after falling into administration, resulting in the loss of 591 jobs.

Several other retailers have fallen into administration in recent weeks, including:

• Russell & Bromley
• Moores
• Claire's and The Original Factory Shop
• Quiz

Meanwhile, four UK travel companies have also closed in the opening weeks of 2026:

• Tesco also recently revealed plans to cut 380 jobs in stores across the UK, while its been reported that Morrisons is looking to sell some of its in-store pharmacies as it continues to cut costs.

It's not been all bad news for the UK high street, with several major brands announcing new store openings for 2026, including Aldi, M&S, Superdrug, and Lidl.

Which recent shop closure has affected you the most? Let us know in the comments below.

Violence broke out late on Saturday’s fixture between Aberkenfig BGC and Trefelin BGC, with video footage widely shared on social media showing adults running onto the pitch and becoming involved in a physical altercation in front of children.

The match, held at Coleg Cymunedol Y Ddderwen in Tondu, was abandoned by the referee after fighting continued for around 90 seconds.

Onlookers could be heard shouting “it’s just a game” and “you’ve got your boys watching” as several adults grappled and threw punches.

Both clubs confirmed over the weekend that internal investigations were under way. Trefelin BGC has now announced its investigation had concluded, with individuals involved handed lifetime bans.

In a statement posted on social media, the club said: “Following the incident on the weekend an internal investigation has been conducted and individuals involved have been handed a life ban by Trefelin BGC.

“Further investigations are in the hands of the relevant governing bodies.

“We will not be making any further comments.”

Aberkenfig BGC previously described themselves as “extremely disappointed” by the incident and apologised to match officials, players and the wider football community, confirming they would compile a full report for the relevant authorities.

In a statement released on Sunday evening, Trefelin BGC said: "As a club we have been made aware of an incident on social media.

"Trefelin BGC certainly don't condone this behaviour and are awaiting reports from the relevant match and league officials.

"We are also conducting an internal investigation. Updates will be made in due course."

The governing bodies are now understood to be examining the matter, with potential further sanctions possible following their review.

The incident is believed to have occurred shortly after a player was sent off late in the game, though both clubs have now stressed that investigations are ongoing.

The footage prompted widespread condemnation online, with many expressing concern at the example set in front of young players.

Further updates are expected once the governing bodies conclude their inquiries.

On Tuesday night, the Swans took on Preston North End in a Championship clash at the Swansea.com Stadium. But the main focus of the evening was not on the 1-1 draw that played out on the pitch, but rather on who was in attendance.

Legendary US rapper Snoop Dogg - who has a reported net worth of £118m - made his first appearance at a Swansea City game since buying a minority stake in the club last summer.

And what an appearance it was. Before kick-off, the artist was introduced to the Swans’ faithful and completed a lap of the pitch as a packed crowd twirled souvenir Snoop Dogg-themed towels in the air.

The 20,000 supporters in the stands were each given one of these towels for free, which have the words ‘Make Some Noise’ emblazoned on them, and it wasn’t long before they started appearing for sale online.

A quick look on auction site eBay reveals that a number of the items are currently for sale, with one priced at £103.66 on Thursday morning.

Others are subject to bids of between £36 and £40.01.

Shelling out more than £100 for a towel may seem excessive, but if Tuesday night’s atmosphere is anything to go by, Swansea City is in the middle of Snoop Dogg fever, and merchandise is merely a part of it.

The club has its own ‘Swansea City x Snoop Dogg’ clothing range on its website, selling T-shirts, hoodies and jackets costing between £25 and £60.

Peter Boden, who lives at Clifton Street in the Splott area of Cardiff, has called for disabled parking bays to be refurbished in the street. He said he is currently having to park a long distance from his house because motorists who aren't disabled are using the bays.

"[The] disabled bays are not vacant enough," he told Pulse Media. “You just can’t find a space to park.”

He said the problems have arisen due to the paintwork differentiating the disabled parking spaces from normal spaces having been weathered away, meaning other motorists who don't have a blue badge are parking in the allocated spots.

Pictures from the street show the disabled signs on the road are weathered and in some instances are hardly visible.

Mr Boden claimed at Clifton Street larger vehicles which stay for extended periods of time appear to be taking up the spots. He claimed: "It's the owners of the shops that park their vans there."

He said he has sometimes had to rely on others for shopping because of a "constant struggle" with parking on the street. He said he has tried to get in touch with the council but his complaints have gone unanswered.

Parking in a disabled bay without a blue badge can result in a fine up to £1,000.

A spokesperson for Cardiff council said: “There are seven disabled bays on Clifton Street, which is more than the recommended government guidance.

"Blue badge holders can park for up to three hours in permit-holder-only bays or on yellow lines by displaying their badge with the time clock displayed, provided there are no ‘no loading’ restrictions in place."

They added: “Blue badge holders can also park for free and for as long as they require in limited waiting bays or pay-and-stay bays, with their badge displayed.

“The council frequently patrols this area of the city, and 24 visits have taken place this year, with 14 penalty charge notices issued. The council has also had one request to repaint one of the disabled parking bays – and this will be carried out when weather conditions allow.”

With the Winter Olympic Games captivating audiences worldwide, there’s no better moment to experience Disney’s enchanting spectacle brought to life on ice. Audiences can expect princesses gliding effortlessly, oceans shimmering, and castles rising from frozen floors in a stunning blend of choreography and storytelling.

Beloved characters will take to the rink, including Frozen characters Anna and Elsa, joined by the ever-charming snowman Olaf. Fans will also see the fearless Moana as she sails across the ice, while Rapunzel and Flynn Rider bring their adventure and romance to arenas across the country throughout February and March.

The tour begins on February 26 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, before travelling to Leeds, Cardiff, Glasgow and London, reports the Express. The complete schedule of locations and dates can be found below.

At each venue, spectators can anticipate "Olympic-style ice precision" combined with "lightning-fast costume changes", all flawlessly woven into Disney's characteristic storytelling. Substantial effort is required to adapt Disney On Ice for every arena, explains lighting assistant electrician Brandon Dupree, who highlights just how much preparation is necessary to bring the production to life on the ice, 

"A bright, white ice surface is always a challenge," they said. "We have to balance visibility, colour and mood without washing out the visuals."

Meanwhile, head of wardrobe Jenine Vanderhoof discloses that one costume transformation in Disney On Ice occurs in merely 31 seconds: "Many costumes are more technical than they appear, featuring hidden stretch panels, reinforced seams and custom closures designed specifically for skating.

"One example is Moana's adventure costume in the show - it appears layered and textural to reflect the film's island aesthetic, but beneath that organic look are stretch gussets and performance-grade fabrics that allow her to execute powerful skating choreography."

Tickets for Into The Magic are still available via the official website, with further seats obtainable through Ticketmaster. For those seeking further half-term ideas, a number of theatre productions are bringing Disney's most cherished tales to life on stage.

If you’re searching for more half-term inspiration, several theatre productions bring Disney’s most beloved stories to the stage. Hercules is the latest screen-to-stage adaptation, and tickets are now on sale. Meanwhile, The Lion King continues to be a global theatre favourite, delighting audiences for decades.

Disney On Ice - Into The Magic Tour 2026

• Liverpool, M&S Bank Arena - 26 Feb-1 Mar, 2026
• Leeds, First Direct Arena - 5 Mar-8 Mar, 2026
• Cardiff, Utilita Arena Cardiff - 12 Mar-15 Mar, 2026
• Glasgow, OVO Hydro - 19 Mar-22 Mar, 2026
• London, OVO Arena Wembley - 25 Mar-29 Mar, 2026

Yogesh Parmar pleaded not guilty to both charges but was convicted following a trial on 26 January. He was sentenced on Monday by Judge Catherine Richards, who also imposed a 20-year restraining order.

The court heard harrowing details of the victim’s ordeal through an impact statement read by prosecutor Ian Wright. The victim described being “repeatedly pinned down and not allowed to leave” during the attack, saying she had “no control over my own body or what he was doing to me.”

In her statement, she revealed the ongoing psychological impact of Parmar’s crimes, explaining that the incident had stopped her living a normal life and caused her to suffer panic attacks.

“I’m still affected to this day and it’s something I feel I will never recover from,” she said. “I have a constant heavy feeling in me from what he did and it comes back to me in waves.”

The victim added that she would “never forget his soulless eyes.”

The court also heard that the trial process forced the victim to relive the traumatic incident in order to have the truth recognised.

Detective Constable Lauren Williams from South Wales Police praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward and reporting the crimes.

“Yogesh Parmar raped his victim and also made her fear that he would be violent towards her on multiple occasions,” DC Williams said. “He physically assaulted her, prevented her from leaving his home and also threatened to destroy her property.

“This was a harrowing ordeal for the victim, who we commend for her bravery in coming forward and reporting Yogesh Parmar’s crimes.

“We hope that with this verdict and sentencing, the victim can now finally come to terms with what Yogesh Parmar did to her, and move on with her life, free from fear of what he would do next.”

South Wales Police emphasised that victims of sexual abuse will be “listened to, treated with dignity and respect, and will be supported throughout the judicial process.”

The force encouraged anyone who has been sexually abused to seek support, even if they are not yet ready to report to police. Information about support services is available through South Wales Police’s website.

The case was heard at Swansea Crown Court, which regularly handles serious criminal cases across the Swansea area.

Parmar, from Mount Pleasant, will serve 11 years in prison for his crimes.

Support for victims of sexual abuse:

If you have been affected by sexual abuse, support is available:

• South Wales Police: Call 101 or visit www.south-wales.police.uk
• Rape Crisis England & Wales: 0808 500 2222 (24/7)
• The Survivors Trust: 08088 010 818
• Victim Support: 08081 689 111

The 36 year old was additionally handed a sexual harm prevention order for life. Springer, previously of Cornstall Buildings in Stamford near the Cambridgeshire border, had earlier admitted guilt to nine charges of rape at the same court on December 2, 2025.

His offences targeted three victims living with dementia at a residential care facility for elderly residents in the Stamford area. A fourth victim was located in the North Yorkshire region.

Of Springer's nine charges, six were distributed equally amongst three women at the Stamford care facility, whilst the remaining three charges related to a fourth woman in North Yorkshire.

The care facility and location in Yorkshire are being withheld to safeguard the victims' anonymity. Springer also received sentencing for creating indecent images of children, offences to which he similarly pleaded guilty, 

Detective chief inspector Jennifer Lovatt, of the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, said: "Whilst Springer has been sentenced for his horrific crimes, that does not mean that our investigations have stopped. [The] result shows that offenders will be brought to justice, so if you think you have been affected, please get in touch."

DCI Lovatt is urging any other potential victims of Springer, who also goes by the names Joshua Kearney and Joshua Kearney Springer, to get in touch with the police. The DCI stated: "Our team has worked tirelessly for some time in bringing Springer to justice, and there may be other potential victims who perhaps have not yet come forward.

"I'd encourage them to contact us - you can call 101 (ask for Lincolnshire Police) and quote Incident 272 of November 28. If you want to remain anonymous, then you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

• Hannah O’Brien, 26 from Merthyr was banned from retail premises in Merthyr Tydfil including TK Maxx, Tesco and Farmfoods after repeated criminality within the stores.

• Although she was given repeated interventions by South Wales Police and offers of support, O'Brien continued to offend and "has caused ongoing harm to the local community through her persistent criminality.

• After breaching her Community Protection Notice, banning her from entering the stores, the 26-year-old has been jailed.

• On Friday, February 13 she appeared at Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court and was handed an eight-week custodial sentence.

• PC Liam Jones from the Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "We are working closely with retailers and businesses across Merthyr Tydfil to protect them from crime and anti social behaviour committed by individuals like Hannah O’Brien. Retail crime is not a victimless crime — it has a significant impact on shopworkers and retailers, with many facing financial hardship and intimidation."

• He added: "It puts stores at risk of closure and jobs at risk. It will not be tolerated, and we will use all powers available to hold offenders to account."

Following last week's instalment, the programme entitled Skegness Psycho: 28 Miles to Murder explores a devastating case of domestic violence and the tragic killings of a mother and son in May 2021.

Bethany, 26, and her son Darren, known as DJ, were fatally stabbed by Daniel Boulton at their home in Louth, Lincolnshire. The two-part series immerses viewers in the distressing investigation and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Bethany and DJ.

Launching on Monday, 16 February on Crime+Investigation, true crime devotees faced a wait for the second episode, which is scheduled to broadcast tonight (23 February) at 9pm on the channel, 

A synopsis states: "Just before midnight in May 2021, Daniel Boulton leaves his hostel in Skegness and begins a 28-mile march to the home his ex-girlfriend Bethany Vincent shares with her two young sons.

"Bethany's family tell the story of how this loving mother-of-two started a relationship with Daniel Boulton with no idea of his violent, criminal past."

It adds: "There is a further tragedy in this case, revealed by retired homicide detective Russell Wate. His investigations reveal that parole officers, the police, health services and other agencies were aware of Boulton's past and deteriorating behaviour – but failures in multi-agency communication and risk management meant they were unable to keep Bethany and her family safe."

The programme features interviews with Bethany's mother, father and sister, alongside disturbing insights from homicide detective Russell Wate and Boulton's prosecuting barrister Katherine Goddard KC.

Described as "out of control" and a "danger to society", audiences discover Boulton undertook the 28-mile journey entirely on foot. Following last week's release, true crime enthusiasts expressed frustration at having to wait for the subsequent instalment.

On TikTok, one true crime devotee recommended the brand new two-part series, commenting: "Skegness Psycho 28 Miles to Murder about a man who walked 28 miles from where he was living to his ex partner's house to murder her and her son. Absolutely shocking, I mean, I hadn't even heard of this."

One person responded: "OMG I've just watched the first one, nearly had me in tears." Another remarked: "I need to watch it, looks wild."

In a separate video, one true crime aficionado stated they "can't stop thinking about it", noting the two-part series will "make you feel all the emotions." They added: "It's one you don't want to miss."

One viewer replied: "I watched this it was absolutely awful cried my eyes out."

Crime+Investigation hinted on social media: "He marched 28-miles to kill. Watch the terrifying full story in #SkegnessPsycho: 28 Miles to Murder on Crime+Investigation Monday 9pm."

Boulton was previously handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years at Lincoln Crown Court in February 2022. He had walked 28 miles from a homeless hostel in Skegness to Bethany's home, where he stabbed her nine times before assaulting DJ, aged 9, 14 times in his bedroom.

Prior to the deadly assault, Boulton had sent Bethany around 900 messages, many of which contained threats.

If you or anyone you know are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free on 0808 2000 247. The line is available 24 hours a day.

The man, thought to be in his early twenties, was carrying what appeared to be a shotgun and a fuel can as he tried to breach the secure perimeter, according to the agency. President Trump was not at the Florida resort at the time, despite regularly spending weekends there, and was instead at the White House.

Officials have not yet released the man’s identity. The Secret Service said he was seen near the north gate shortly before 01:30 local time on Sunday. Agents, supported by a Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputy, opened fire after he failed to follow instructions and raised the weapon,

"At 1.30 this morning, the security detail detected that an individual had made his way into the inner perimeter of Mar-a-Lago. A deputy and two Secret Service agents on the detail went to that area to investigate," confirmed Rick Bradshaw, the sheriff of Palm Beach County.

"They confronted a white male that was carrying a gas can and a shotgun. He was ordered to drop those two pieces of equipment that he had with them at which time he put down the gas can, raised the shotgun to a shooting position.

"At that point in time, the deputy and the two Secret Service agents fired their weapons and neutralised the threat. He is deceased at the scene."

Members of the public with any information which could aid detectives have been urged to come forward by the FBI. Brett Skiles, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Miami field office, said: "If you live in the area of the shooting, please check your exterior cameras for last night, early this morning."

Mr Skiles added: "If you see anything that looks suspicious or out of place, please contact us... call FBI or contact the West Palm Beach Sheriff's Office." Skiles said the "evidence response team" is scouring the scene and will continue to work there "as long as it takes".

The sport's most eagerly awaited fixture brought together the two favourites, featuring some of the finest hockey players on the planet, with the spectacle living up to expectations for Winter Olympics audiences.

Team USA opened the scoring in what had been a cautious first period, only for Canada to respond and level matters in the second. Between both goals, a major altercation broke out on the ice.

USA's Connor Hellebuyck had produced an excellent save, keeping out Cale Makar at his near post, before the aftermath descended into unsavoury scenes.

The Tkachuk brothers, Brady and Matthew, were at the centre of the incident as at least six players began fighting behind the American goal, with Dylan Larkin also becoming embroiled as several Canadian stars turned physical, with helmets being knocked off.

Yet when the referee declared that neither side would face any sanction, jeers rang out inside the arena as spectators clearly believed that at least one team deserved to be penalised,

Just four minutes later, Canada equalised.

They secured a face-off on the left and Davon Toews passed the puck to an unmarked Makar, who skated past Connor Hellebuyck and fired into the net, triggering massive celebrations.

BBC commentator Kent Simpson, who hails from Canada, interrupted Seth Bennett and exclaimed: "Sheepdogs!" He then swiftly apologised: "Sorry, as a Canadian I've got to jump in, 'Feeling Good' by the Sheepdogs is the name of the song."

The second period concluded with more scuffles erupting in front of the bench, as the two teams, filled with NHL players who share the same locker rooms back home, clashed once again as they exited the ice.

However, the referee promptly intervened, cautioning both teams that he would penalise only one of them if any further confrontations occurred, leaving everyone involved aware that they risked jeopardising their own prospects.

The third and final period saw USA goalkeeper Hellebuyck pull off a series of remarkable saves, including four within just the opening few minutes.

He found himself in a one-on-one situation with Macklin Celebrini, but held his nerve and kept the scores level.

The USA were handed a golden chance to clinch gold late on, as Sam Bennett was penalised for high sticking and the Americans were awarded a four-minute power play, a man advantage, with just over six minutes left on the clock.

Banning him indefinitely from the professional register to teach, a professional standards panel found the messages to two students at Coleg y Cymoedd, which has four main sites in Aberdare, Nantgarw, Rhondda, and Ystrad Mynach, were inappropriate, "sexual in nature" and amounted to professional misconduct.

In one of a series of flirty messages Davies told a student, or someone he thought was a student: "Nobody sees your phone though, right? Can’t even begin to say the trouble I’d be in if anyone else saw these messages," the panel heard,

Among messages he spoke, or sent to the student, Davies also sent a photo of a chocolate bar on his lap and made comments including:

‘What’s it worth?’

‘Persuade me’ ‘

'So what do I get?’

‘You’re not trying very hard. You can’t want this Freddo that much…’

‘Interesting… What else do I get?’

‘What else you got?’

‘What could you give that you don’t have to buy?’

‘You didn’t show me the photos like you promised’

‘Why can’t I see them now?’

‘Good girl’ and;

‘Sweet cheeks’

The panel found it proved that Davies sent the messages between around October 11, 2023, and November 22, 2023, and also gave the student, identified only as Learner A to protect their identity, a chocolate bar.

In another set of messages, the teacher told a second student "Could look at you all day ngl (not going to lie)" and said "You’re making me very hot under the collar here".

He also told the student, referred to only as Learner B in the hearing: "Wow you really are incredible" and "these pics are getting addictive".

Davies then seemed to get worried and messaged Learner B saying: "Nobody sees your phone though, right? Can’t even begin to say the trouble I’d be in if anyone else saw these messages", and: "Just realised this convo took place on a works platform".

In another message, in a series he sent to Learner B between around September 26, 2023, and November 29, 2023, Davies said: "You’re giving me very unprofessional thoughts again… You’re getting very good at doing that xx".

Finding all the above conduct proved the committee, sitting remotely between January 2 and 22, 2026, found that the messages were sexual in nature and that they, along with giving Learner A a chocolate bar, did not maintain professional boundaries.

Publishing the findings online, the EWC said the committee imposed a Prohibition Order, indefinitely removing Mr Davies from the Register of Education Practitioners in the category of further education teacher.

It also decided Mr Davies might not make an application for restoration to the Register of Education Practitioners for two years from the hearing's decision.

If Davies does not make a successful application for eligibility for restoration to the Register after January 22, 2028, he will remain prohibited indefinitely. He had the right of appeal to the High Court within 28 days of the hearing

The Hapello Power Train has been recalled because of a choking hazard for small children, whilst the Stretcherz Stretch Squad Assortment may be contaminated with cancer-causing asbestos. Customers are urged to return the items to Asda or contact Asda's customer services if they cannot visit their local branch.

Those who return the items will receive a full refund.

Stretcherz Stretch Squad Assortment

• Barcode: 5050837662419
• Purchase dates: January 2024 to February 2026

Slammerz Assortment Toys

• Barcode: 5050835105345
• Purchase dates: January 2025 to February 2026

Both the Slammerz and Stretcherz toys have been recalled amid concerns that they may contain asbestos, a banned substance as it's a known carcinogen that poses a serious risk to health – even at low levels of exposure.

The items have now been removed from shelves and recalled by Asda, and the Office for Product Safety and Standards have warned that other retailers may have stocked the toys, with further guidance to be issued shortly.

Issuing the recall notice, Asda said: "Testing has shown that the sand-like material inside some products may contain trace levels of asbestos. The overall risk is considered low, but because asbestos should not be present in any amount, we are recalling the affected items as a precaution.

"While we have received no reports of harm, we are taking this action out of an abundance of caution and in line with our commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality."

Customers should return the products at the earliest opportunity to receive a complete refund.

Hapello Power Train

• Barcode: 5063089308547
• Purchase dates: August 2024 to February 2026

The Hapello Power Train has been withdrawn from sale because it presents a choking hazard. Asda said: "We have found that in some cases this product may release the orange steam dome from the top of the train, which could pose as a small part choking hazard. We have taken the decision to recall the product."

Customers who own the toy have been urged to return it to their nearest Asda branch. The retailer stated: "If you have purchased the Hapello Power Train, please bring it back to your nearest store where you will be given a full refund.

"You do not need your receipt. The product was sold between 2024 and 2026. We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused. If you would like any further information, please contact: Asda Customer Relations on 0330 053 0111."

Justin Rey, 35, horrifically "skinned" Jessica Monteiro "like a fish" following her death aged just 32 in a motel, before taking a shocking photograph with her body and their two children.

Jessica's body parts were discovered spread across several containers. Rey initially insisted she had taken her own life, though he later claimed she died during labour. The coroner conducting the post-mortem was unable to establish a definitive cause of death.

After Jessica died following the birth in a Kansas City motel, Rey failed to contact emergency services, instead dismembering her body in the bathtub. He defended this appalling act by saying he feared their two daughters would be removed from his care, reports the Express US.

Rey spent eight harrowing hours cutting up his partner's body before placing it in a cooler, according to Jessica's sister, reports the Mirror.

At his preliminary hearing, Rey gave evidence: "It's something I had to do. My family is very dear to me. It's something I had to do to protect my family."

Following his arrest in October 2017, Rey admitted his culpability to Johnson County District Court, expressing his desire to keep his family intact. Following reports of someone living in the storage unit with two children, police discovered Rey alongside his newborn baby girl and his two year old daughter.

An officer gave evidence that the older child "almost looked like she had cancer". Rey subsequently told officers he was heading to Arizona to give his wife a proper ceremony. Rey was arrested and his children were placed into protective care.

Lenexa police detective Shannon Murphy gave evidence that Rey had made his children pose for photographs with their mother's dead body, and Rey confessed that he had "skinned her like a fish".

Murphy presented evidence Ray admitted to placing the body parts that wouldn't flush down the toilet into containers.

Deputy Johnson County Coroner Charles Glenn told the court there were a "number" of stab wounds on the body parts but said it couldn't be established whether they occurred before or after her death.

During his disturbing testimony, Rey claimed they had only been at the storage facility for 11 hours when they were discovered. He also told the court he only flushed the placenta down the toilet and not any other body parts.

"It was not fun for me," he said.

Investigators alleged Rey took photographs with his wife's body and his newborn and two-year-old, then dismembered the body two days later in a hotel bathtub and placed some of the remains in a large cooler. CCTV footage captured him manoeuvring a red cooler with a black bag atop it through the hotel, whilst pushing a pram with a toddler ambling alongside.

When probed about the dismemberment, Rey told The Associated Press, "What was I supposed to do? I wasn't going to leave mama behind."

Rey's solicitor only cross-examined him regarding the images discovered on his mobile, thereby preventing the prosecution from grilling him about the children and the fate of his wife. However, during a series of telephone interviews, Rey claimed he refrained from alerting the police as he didn't want them to "steal more children."

He alleged that he and his wife had six children together and that the police had previously "stolen our children before."

In a letter addressed to AP dated 23 June, Rey penned, "My children had not been in any danger, I'm not a murderer, I never abandoned a corpse, never lived in a storage unit/facility, never looked up/screenshot child porn."

Yet, he conceded: "I did dismember a dead corpse under religious views."

Rey was facing charges including two counts of aggravated child endangerment and two counts of contributing to a child's misconduct - these were unrelated to his own offspring but rather stemmed from photos of teenagers found on Rey's phone after he asked law enforcement to scrutinise it for evidence he believed would assist him at trial.

Rey was made to watch the hearing via video link from a separate room after his numerous interruptions led to a judge ordering his removal. As part of his nine-year prison term, Rey will be obliged to register as a sex offender.

• Officers are looking for 16-year-olds Roxy and Lacie, who were last seen on Saturday, February 21. In an appeal for information about their whereabouts, South Wales Police said "there is a concern for their welfare."

• The girls have links to Cardiff city city centre, the Rhondda Valleys, the Cynon Valley and the Caerphilly area. Roxy and Lacie were last seen on Saturday afternoon in Mountain Ash.

• Roxy was wearing black leggings with white socks and white sliders with a pink jumper and black body warmer. Lacie was seen wearing black combat trousers with a black jacket.

• Officers looking for the girls have asked anyone who has seen Roxy or Lacie or has any information about their whereabouts to contact the force, quoting reference numbers 2600056340/ 2600056356.

• You can contact the police force via its live chat platform by clicking here or via an online form by clicking here. You can also call 101. Alternatively, information can also be given via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or its online form by clicking here. Always call 999 in an emergency.

The former Match of the Day presenter had been the public face of the BBC's football output for more than 20 years, yet he seldom stepped outside the sport.

That all changed in 2012 when he agreed to anchor broadcasts of the Olympic Games. However, a tense episode in which he was required to speak with multiple medallists without a proper briefing on their identities eventually prompted Lineker to retreat.

"I did the evening show [at London 2012] and what would happen was that people would win a medal, whether silver, gold or bronze and then there'd be a good chance that they'd be in the studio," the 65-year-old said on the The Rest Is Football podcast in 2024.

"So, I'd come in very early in the morning, I'd watch every event and any time there was a medal winner, I'd do massive amounts of research on them. I'd find out what I could about their background, where they're from, what their interests are, on the off chance that they might come into the studio.

"Now, normally, there would probably be three or four interviews during the show in the evening, But I remember one day, we were starting to win so many medals, gold, silver, bronze, loads of them. We were doing so well. It was amazing."

Team GB ultimately secured 65 medals at the London Games, with 29 golds among them, placing third in the standings behind dominant forces the USA and China. "It took a while to get going," Lineker explained. "For the first three or four days, we struggled, but suddenly, it was madness, and everyone was winning."

He went on: "I remember sitting in the studio, and I was on my own. They'd keep coming back to me, and I'd have a guest with me. This one night, I had nine separate lots of guests. That might've been one individual, a pair, a four, and I think there was even a group of eight.