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‘Steve Wright wrote to me from prison – one paragraph chills me to the bone’

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Cambridgeshire Live

The Suffolk Strangler Steve Wright pleaded guilty today to killing a teenager more than 20 years ago.

A harrowing letter Steve Wright, the notorious serial killer, has resurfaced as the Suffolk Strangler has finally confessed to killing a teenager more than 20 years ago.

The Suffolk Strangler who stalked the streets in search of victims was scheduled to stand trial at the Old Bailey for killing Victoria Hall today (February 2).

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Yet Wright, now 67, made a dramatic U-turn from the position of innocence he’s held over the decades as he finally confessed to kidnapping the 17-year-old “by force or fraud” and murdering her on September 19, 1999. He also pleaded guilty to the attempted kidnap of Emily Doherty, then aged 22, in Felixstowe the day before.

The former steward on the QE2 was handed a rare whole life order in 2008 after being found guilty of the brutal murders of five prostitutes in Ipswich. It made him one of the country’s most notorious criminals.

In an astonishing letter from prison to Anthony Bond shortly after he was jailed, the twisted killer continued to protest his innocence, despite the mountain of evidence against him.

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Looking back at that letter today, his horrific lies and lack of empathy for the victims’ families are even more chilling.

The brutal murders of five young sex workers from Ipswich’s red light area nearly 20 years ago sent shockwaves through the country.

The naked bodies of Gemma Adams, 25, Tania Nicol, 19, Anneli Alderton, 24, Paula Clennell, 24 and Annette Nicholls, 29 were found in isolated spots near the Suffolk town in a ten-day spell in December 2006. They had all been strangled or suffocated.

Anthony Bond worked as a reporter in Ipswich during that time and covered the trial of the then 49-year-old. Prosecutors said Wright “systematically selected and murdered” the women after stalking streets around his home.

DNA and fibres linked to his clothes, house and car were found on the women.

Shortly after he was jailed, Wright sent me a three-page letter from high security Long Lartin prison in Worcestershire.

His words understandably caused fury with the victims’ families.

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What I would say to the people of Suffolk is be on your guard because the real killer is still out there, although the injustice that has been done to me I feel no malice or contempt for the people of Suffolk and for the families of the five girls that were cruelly taken away from them.

“I feel sorrow and heartfelt pain for their loss….but believe me when I say he is still out there contemplating his next move.”

But now the sick killer has admitted to murdering Victoria Hall, his horrendous lies are even more stark, and one paragraph from that letter particularly stands out.

“People should believe I am innocent because I have gone through my whole life trying to be as fair and considerate to other people as I possibly could. I do not have a violent bone in my body and to take a life I would have thought would be the ultimate form of aggression.”

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Reacting to the letter at the time, Brian Clennell, father of Paula, said: “How can he say that he is innocent when there is so much evidence against him?

“He can do what he wants. He has hobbies and a TV and the gym and meals every day…. If Paula could have been rescued from what she was into she maybe could have another chance but she does not have a chance.

“I say let him rot in hell.”

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Now that Wright has admitted for the first time to being a killer, the families of Gemma, Tania, Anneli, Paula and Annette will be hoping he finally has the guts to admit to their murders too.

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Two boys arrested after ‘stolen’ car crash in Hartlepool

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Two boys arrested after 'stolen' car crash in Hartlepool

The incident took place when a red Ford Ka, which had been reported stolen overnight, collided with a Mercedes Vito taxi today (Sunday, April 12). 

The crash, at the junction of Winterbottom Avenue and Warren Road just before 5.25am, then saw both vehicles strike a pedestrian barrier. 

A 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy in the Ka were injured in the crash, with the older boy losing consciousness and several teeth. 

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The younger boy sustained cuts and bruises, and both were taken to the University Hospital of North Tees, in Stockton. 

They have each been arrested on suspicion of several driving offences and will be questioned.

The 49-year-old man driving the Mercedes sustained a head injury and he remains in the University Hospital of North Tees receiving treatment.

It is believed someone else ran from the Ka before officers arrived. 

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Cleveland Police is now appealing for anyone with information or any relevant doorbell, dash cam or private CCTV footage who has not yet spoken to police to contact the force on the 101 number or via the website, quoting ref 068120.

If you don’t want to speak to police, please consider passing information anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by phoning them on 0800 555 111.

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PSNI issue appeal for missing teenage girls who may have travelled to Dublin

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Belfast Live

The 14 and 13-year-olds are missing from the Bangor area

Police are seeking the public’s help to locate two missing teenagers who may have travelled to Dublin.

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14-year-old Amber Pollock and 13-year-old Bay Giltrap, who are missing from the Bangor area, are believed to be together and were last seen on Saturday, 11th April.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Amber is approximately 5ft 6, slim build with long dark hair that has a blonde streak. She has a septum piercing and is believed to be wearing a black hoodie, black tracksuit bottoms and black converse.

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“Amber is believed to be carrying a black backpack which has approximately 20 coloured badges on the main face of the backpack.

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“Bay is approximately 5ft 7, slim build with long red/brown hair. They are believed to be wearing black jeans, black boots, black top and a black hat. Bay may also be carrying a Nike bag and a sleeping bag.”

Police enquiries have determined that Amber and Bay boarded an early-morning train on Saturday from Bangor to Grand Central Station in Belfast.

The spokesperson continued: “It is believed Amber and Bay may have travelled to Dublin.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have been on the 11:11am train from Bangor to Belfast and seen two young people matching Amber and Bay’s descriptions or where they may went to after they have disembarked, to get in touch with us.

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“If you have any information in relation to their whereabouts, or you believe you may have seen them, please contact police on 101 quoting reference numbers 1309 11/04/25 and 1325 11/04/25.”

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

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Jet2 ’12 hours’ update for all UK travellers

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Jet2 has issued an advisory to passengers

Jet2 has issued a 12-hour check-in alert to passengers with flights booked on the carrier this year.

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The UK’s third-largest airline has provided crucial guidance to travellers, encouraging them to check the ‘latest travel information’ on Jet2’s website no less than 12 hours before departure to ensure they are kept fully up to date. The full message to passengers states: “Please check this section of the website at least 12 hours before your flight for the latest flight information. Further information can be found by using the [above] search panel by entering your flight number or route.

“We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. Please remember – check-in desks close 40 minutes before this.

“In the event of flight disruption our dedicated Operations teams are working hard behind the scenes at our UK-based HQ to get you on your way as soon as possible.”

Jet2 currently flies from approximately 14 UK airports, among them London Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted, as well as Liverpool John Lennon, Belfast International, and Manchester. Those travelling with Jet2 have access to upwards of 75 destinations across Europe and further afield. Jet2 also offers ‘Twilight Check-in’, a free service allowing travellers to deposit hold luggage at the airport the evening before their flight.

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This means on the day of travel, you can bypass the check-in desks completely and head straight to security, though availability is dependent on your flight time and departure airport.

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Golden eagles could be seen over England’s skies again soon – here’s how | News UK

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Golden eagles could be seen over England's skies again soon - here's how | News UK
The stunning birds could make their return to England (Picture: PA)

Bird lovers could see golden eagles return to England after the Government announced new funding to explore their reintroduction.

Mentioned more than 40 times in Shakespeare’s work, the bird of prey has a huge two-metre wingspan and plays a vital role in keeping the whole ecosystem in balance as an apex predator.

The species was once widespread across England, but it was virtually wiped out by sheep farmers and gamekeepers in the Victorian era, who viewed them as a threat to lambs and game birds.

Only a handful of pairs have been seen in England in the last 150 years, with the last eagle dying in the Lake District in 2016, though they are still found in Scotland.

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A study by Forestry England, published on Sunday, found that England now has the capacity to sustain golden eagle populations again.

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The paper identified eight potential ‘recovery zones’ as the most suitable areas, mostly in the north of England, although it could take more than a decade until breeding populations are established in the area.

Undated handout photo issued by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) of the release of Hamlet a golden eagle which was injured by shooting and has been cared for by the Scottish SPCA. Bird lovers could see golden eagles return to England, the Government has said, as it announced new funding to explore their reintroduction. Issue date: Sunday April 12, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Phil Wilkinson /Restoring Upland Nature (RUN)/PA Wire NOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.
The birds essentially died out in England during the Victorian era (Picture: PA)

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds has since approved £1 million in additional funding to help pave the way for a recovery programme.

This could include reintroduction efforts that would see juveniles aged six to eight weeks old released as early as next year.

Ms Reynolds said: ‘This government is committed to protecting and restoring our most threatened native wildlife – and that includes bringing back iconic species like the golden eagle.

‘Backed by £1 million of government funding – we will work alongside partners and communities to make the golden eagle a feature of English landscapes once again.’

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In Southern Scotland, golden eagle populations have recovered to record numbers because of a major project to restore their populations in the area.

A Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) in the Highlands of Scotland, United Kingdom..
The awe-inspiring birds could soon breed again in England (Picture: Getty)

It is hoped the new funding will help to support these birds in England, coupled with targeted reintroductions.

Forestry England’s research found that Scottish birds could be seen across northern England within 10 years, but it will take longer for breeding golden eagles to become established in England.

Mike Seddon, Forestry England chief executive, said: ‘The detailed findings of our feasibility study will guide us with our partners, Restoring Upland Nature, to take the next steps to explore the recovery of golden eagles in northern England.’

Ministers said the charity Restoring Upland Nature (RUN) will lead the new project alongside other partners, including Forestry England, seeking to replicate the success of the south of Scotland project.

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Cat Barlow, RUN chief executive, said: ‘This presents a truly exciting and potentially game-changing moment for the return of golden eagles to Northern England.

‘Our priority will be to listen, to work in partnership, and to ensure that golden eagle recovery supports both nature and the people who manage these landscapes, so that everyone can enjoy the thrill of seeing golden eagles flying high once again across the uplands of the UK.’

The funding comes as part of the £60 million in species recovery funding announced by the Environment Department last week.

It ties into work aimed at meeting the UK’s legally binding target to halt the decline in species abundance by 2030 and reduce species extinction risk by 2042 against 2022 levels.

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Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

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Streeting blasts Trump’s “incendiary, provocative, outrageous” language as Iran talks stall

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Streeting blasts Trump’s “incendiary, provocative, outrageous” language as Iran talks stall

Wes Streeting has branded Donald Trump’s language as “incendiary, provocative, outrageous” – but insisted people must draw a distinction between what the US president “says and what he does”.

The health secretary launched a tirade against the US president on Sky News’s Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme as he reacted to the rapidly changing picture in the Middle East following the collapse of talks between the US and Iran.

Mr Streeting, who is still being seen as a potential leadership candidate to replace Keir Starmer, praised the prime minister’s refusal to enter the war.

But, unlike Sir Keir, who simply criticised Mr Trump’s values, the health secretary did not hold back on recent statements made by the US president.

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The health secretary said: “Over the course of the last week, President Trump has said some pretty bold – in Yes Minister language – incendiary, provocative, outrageous things on social media.

“I think we’ve all come to learn that you judge President Trump through what he does, not just what he says.”

Mr Streeting was also critical of the way the US president has focused very personal attacks on the prime minister, such as comparing him to Neville Chamberlain and saying “he is no Winston Churchill”.

The senior minister said: “You’ve seen some of the criticisms he’s levelled at this country.

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The health secretary used uncharacteristically critical terms to describe the president
The health secretary used uncharacteristically critical terms to describe the president (PA Wire)

“The prime minister has sought throughout the time they’ve both been in office simultaneously to influence effectively, to make sure we’re leveraging the bilateral relationship.”

The health secretary described Nigel Farage as a “plastic patriot” and attacked the Reform UK leader and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch for initially wanting to join Trump in his attack on Iran.

But Mr Streeting admitted disagreements over the Iran war, Greenland and the Chagos Islands deal had “undoubtedly strained things with the Trump administration”.

He added: “But on so many other things, our interests as the UK and the US are intertwined. We are old and close friends, and we’ve got a shared outlook as democratic countries, and we’ve got shared security interests.

”So all of that work, all of that partnership continues to go on. And the point I’m making is you have to distinguish between some of the rhetoric, which people might find shocking, and then the reality.”

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Mr Streeting was commenting on Donald Trump’s warning wanted this week that “a whole civilisation” would die
Mr Streeting was commenting on Donald Trump’s warning wanted this week that “a whole civilisation” would die (AP)

It came as Mr Streeting insisted that the long-awaited Defence Investment Plan, which has already been delayed by six months, will be published “shortly”.

He told the BBC that he would not agree to money being redirected from health spending to defence to fund an increase to 3 per cent of GDP to boost military readiness.

He said: “The defence investment plan is coming. It will be published when it is ready, when it is robust, and it is a plan that can be delivered.”

He contrasted that with the “pie in the sky promises” made by the previous Tory government, saying Labour “do action, not words”.

Asked when the spending document will be published, Mr Streeting said: “Shortly. I understand it is being finalised.”

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Nationwide ‘no set timescale’ update for members

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The building society recently issued an update

Nationwide Building Society has shed light on a rule that affects customers accessing services online. The update after a query was raised by a member on social media.

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The customer explained that they had switched to a new phone several weeks prior and were unable to activate biometrics on their new device. They asked: “How long is the waiting period to get these back?” Biometric authentication is a security feature that uses a unique personal identifier to verify account access. This can include fingerprint scanning or facial recognition to confirm a user’s identity. In response to the question, Nationwide stated: “If you get a new phone, you’ll need to wait to re-qualify for biometric authentication on that device.”

Regarding how long this can take, the group said: “There’s no set timescale, and we’ll usually notify you by text message when it becomes available.” The building society also pointed the customer towards an information page on the Nationwide website detailing how to set up biometric authentication.

State Pensioners to face major tax change

The feature can be set up for everyday banking purposes, allowing customers to log into the app and authorise both small and recurring payments through either the app or internet banking portal. Biometrics can also be used to verify your identity when logging into internet banking.

Customers also have the option to set up biometrics within the app, to provide an extra layer of security for more sensitive transactions. This includes larger payments or resetting your passnumber.

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With account biometrics enabled, there will be no need to use your card reader or debit card to log in or make payments. Nationwide recently issued guidance on how to identify counterfeit currency, following reports of fake notes appearing at one of its branches.

Counterfeit cash warning

A spokesperson said: “We are aware of a rise in scammers using fake banking notes to pay people for goods and would urge consumers to always check. Suspected counterfeits should be reported to the police, and guidance is available on the Bank of England website.”

Counterfeit notes frequently feature a thick plastic sticker concealing the hologram, which if peeled away may reveal the words: ‘for props only’. Another indicator that a banknote is fraudulent is if some of the UV numbers can be easily scratched off.

You may also want to look out for features such as the hologram and colour-shifting inks on the bank note, to make sure they appear exactly as they should.

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Pictures as Bedale welcomes hundreds to annual Point-to-Point

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Pictures as Bedale welcomes hundreds to annual Point-to-Point

The Point-to-Point meeting has been taking place for more than a century in various locations around the Bedale area, before settling in the parkland of Hornby Castle in 1947.

It takes place each year and sees a series of races with the first being held at 12.30pm.

There was entertainment for all with food vendors, a beer tent and a bouncy castle for kids, with coverage of the Grand National at Aintree as I Am Maximus won the coveted race.

Organisers once again put on a successful event, with the Point-to-Point continuing to prove a popular day out for both racing fans and families alike in the region.

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Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern Echo(Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

(Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Issey Gill, Lucy Gloag, Yasmin Bell, Annabel Hill, Helen Peach, Amy Simes, Clara Levitt and Charlotte Martinson. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Graham and Lizzie Schofield and Sophie Pedlar. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Rob Blakey, Alex Dobson and Lydia Wormald. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point. From left, Freya Williams, Isobel Hart, Caroline Hartley, Anabel Nuttall, Evie Boon, Maddie Sinclair, May Smith, Senara Laity, Bethan Robinson, Jess McLeod and Phoebe Eglington. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern Echo (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Ruby Wilkinson and Lauren Milner. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Jess Seed, Olivia Greensmith and Holly Scott. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Ellie Greenway, Abigail Sutton, Harriet Hymas and Lily Watkinson. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Rupert and Lisa Scales, Jonathan Lawson-Brown and Martin Williams. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Natasha Ropner, Darcy Wyvill, Mellissa Wyvill, Henry Ropner and Imogen Wyvill. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, Emma Jenks, Arthur York, Alexander and Rose Wyvill. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoGerry and Janet Tvedt (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoFrom left, June, Peter, Eliza and Charlie Barker. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

Bedale point to point. 11.4.2026. Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Northern EchoBedale point to point 2026. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

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The famous Cambridge clock that crowds swarm to

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Cambridgeshire Live

The clock was unveiled to the public in 2008 and still gathers crowds who are drawn to its uniqueness

Cambridge is full of many weird and wonderful things. One that can’t be missed is a large gold clock with a grasshopper on top, on the corner junction of Bene’t Street and Trumpington Street.

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This is the Corpus Clock, one of the city’s most unique landmarks. Crowds always gather around the clock to admire this striking time piece. It was created by Dr John C Taylor, who studied natural sciences at Cambridge University. It was officially unveiled to the public by Professor Stephen Hawking in September 2008.

What makes the clock unusual is the large grasshopper on top of it, also known as Chronophage or time eater. The large insect on top is an example of the grasshopper escapement mechanism invented in the 1700s by John Harrison, who also invented the marine chronometer that meant sailors could work out longitude.

The clock mouth opens at 30 seconds past each minute, but then closes when the minute is over. Then, when it strikes on the hour, it doesn’t chime like people may think. Instead, its chains rustle and a hammer hits a wooden coffin. Unlike a normal clock, the Corpus Clock has no hands or digital numbers. Instead, it has Vernier slits cut into its face.

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In 2023, the clock was vandalised when the glass protecting it was smashed with a hammer. After it was damaged, the landmark was left out of action for nearly two months. However, it made its triumphant return in June of that year. Since then, crowds continue to gather every day to admire this unusual piece.

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Marie-Louise Eta: Union Berlin makes history with first female manager in major European leagues

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Marie-Louise Eta: Union Berlin makes history with first female manager in major European leagues

Marie-Louise Eta has made history by becoming the first woman to take charge of a men’s team in one of Europe’s top five football leagues, after being appointed head coach of Union Berlin until the end of the season.

The groundbreaking appointment follows the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart on Saturday, after his side suffered a 3-1 defeat to Bundesliga strugglers Heidenheim.

Eta, 34, a Women’s Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam in 2010, has been serving as Union Berlin’s under-19s coach this season.

She is also slated to lead the club’s women’s team from the summer.

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Her previous experience includes working as an assistant to former men’s head coach Nenad Bjelica, and she notably handled media responsibilities during a Bundesliga game in 2024 while Bjelica served a touchline ban.

Her immediate task is to revitalise a struggling Union Berlin side, who have secured just two wins from their last 14 league matches, leaving them seven points clear of the relegation play-off position.

The 34-year-old Eta, a Women’s Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam in 2010, has been working as Union Berlin’s under-19s coach this season and is due to take charge of the club’s women’s side from the summer
The 34-year-old Eta, a Women’s Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam in 2010, has been working as Union Berlin’s under-19s coach this season and is due to take charge of the club’s women’s side from the summer (AFP via Getty Images)

“Given the points gap in the lower half of the table, our place in the Bundesliga is not yet secure,” Eta said on the club’s website.

“I am delighted that the club has entrusted me with this challenging task. One of Union’s strengths has always been, and remains, the ability to pull together in such situations. And, of course, I am convinced that we will secure the crucial points with the team.”

Union director of men’s football Horst Heldt said: “We have had a hugely disappointing second half of the season so far and will not allow ourselves to be blinded by our league position.

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“Our situation remains precarious and we urgently need points to secure our place in the league. Two wins from 14 matches since the winter break and the performances shown in recent weeks do not give us the confidence that we can still turn things around with the current set-up.

“We have therefore decided to make a fresh start. I am delighted that Marie-Louise Eta has agreed to take on this role on an interim basis before becoming head coach of the women’s professional team in the summer as planned.”

Marie-Louise Eta has been handed the reins after Steffen Baumgart was sacked on Saturday following a 3-1 loss to the Bundesliga’s bottom side Heidenheim
Marie-Louise Eta has been handed the reins after Steffen Baumgart was sacked on Saturday following a 3-1 loss to the Bundesliga’s bottom side Heidenheim (AP)

Carolina Morace became the first woman to manage a men’s professional team in Europe when she took charge of Italian third division side Viterbese in 1999.

In July 2023 Forest Green appointed Hannah Dingley as caretaker boss, although she did not take charge of a competitive fixture.

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Rory McIlroy seeks quick fix on practice range after surrendering six-shot lead at Masters as Shane Lowry races into contention

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Rory McIlroy surrendered a six-shot lead to leave the defence of his Masters title in the balance and headed straight to the range to find a fix ahead of the final round

Rory McIlroy made a beeline for the practice range to work on his game after squandering a six-shot lead, leaving his Masters title defence hanging in the balance.

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Just 24 hours prior, the Northern Irishman had appeared set to dominate the field, having established the largest 36-hole lead in the tournament’s storied history.

While his rivals were posting impressive scores — the nine players immediately beneath him all carded sub-70 rounds — the world number two could only manage a one-over 71, having come unstuck at Amen Corner.

The persistent tee troubles he had been carefully managing throughout the week proved costly, and he wasted no time heading to the range to seek a solution ahead of his final-group pairing with Cameron Young, who fired a Masters-best 65, on 11 under.

“The course was obviously gettable, there was a lot of good scores out there, and the quality of the chasing pack is obvious,” McIlroy acknowledged.

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“There’s a lot of guys in with a chance tomorrow. I’m still tied for the best score going into tomorrow, so I can’t forget that, but I do know I’m going to have to be better if I want to have a chance to win.

“I’m in the final group. I just need to go to the range and try to figure it out a little bit.”

McIlroy had entered Augusta National’s notoriously demanding Amen Corner stretch at 13 under, holding a three-shot advantage but showing signs of vulnerability. He finished one stroke behind Young after a difficult stretch that saw him take a double bogey, bogey and par, having pulled a seven iron into the water at the 11th, failing to find the green at the 12th and driving into the trees at the 13th.

“When you’re not quite feeling it, you struggle. You have to dig deep and I felt like I did that on the front nine and made a lot of good par saves,” he added.

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“I missed a couple of chances on eight and nine and then I thought I turned the round around with the birdie on 10.

“I felt like I hit a pretty good second shot on 11 but it just drifted on the wind a little bit and went in the water. Those two holes (11 and 12) weren’t great.

“But again I felt like I bounced back pretty well with the birdies on 14 and 15. It would have been nice to play those last few holes and not make that bogey on 17 but, you know, I still have a great chance.”

Meanwhile, Shane Lowry, renowned for his knack for aces, celebrated his “wild” hole-in-one at the Masters, which propelled him into contention ahead of the final day.

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The Irishman boasts an impressive array of aces throughout his career, and this marked his second at Augusta National, making him the first player to achieve this distinction.

Lowry’s tee shot at the 190-yard sixth saw him leap from six to eight under, and he concluded on nine under following a 69, sitting just two shots behind the leader.

“That’s wild, isn’t it? I made one a couple of weeks ago in Houston. You don’t ever expect to make a hole-in-one, I just couldn’t believe it,” remarked the former Open champion, whose previous ace here came at the 16th during the final round in 2016.

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“Obviously you’re out there and you’re in the hunt at the Masters and you’re making hole-in-one, it’s pretty cool.

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“The walk down the sixth hole with everyone around 16 and the sixth was very special. I’ll remember that for a while. It was obviously amazing.

“It gives you obviously a huge kind of boost. You go from six-under to eight-under and then all of a sudden you’re only four back.

“It’s getting real now. I felt like I did a great job of calming myself down afterwards.”

Lowry has also recorded aces at the 17th at Sawgrass in 2022 and the seventh at Pebble Beach in January 2025, two of golf’s most iconic par threes.

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