Oil depots spewing black smoke. Debris sinking in the Persian Gulf. Missiles pounding military sites.
The Iran war has unleashed a toxic mix of chemicals, heavy metals and other pollutants that threaten everything from agriculture to drinking water to people’s health — and will leave behind environmental damage and health risks that could persist for decades, experts said.
“All the burning of oil and gas fields in the coastal areas, all the ships that are there, the oil tankers that are being burned or (sunk) — all of these mean pollution,” said Kaveh Madani, an Iranian scientist and director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health. “For someone like me who has fought for sustainability and protection of the environment in that region, this is like going many years backward.”
Documenting the damage has proved daunting, with a full accounting impossible for now, said Doug Weir, director of the Conflict and Environment Observatory, a U.K.-based nonprofit that monitors environmental harms from armed conflicts.
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First responders inspect the remains of a residential building hit in an overnight strike during the U.S.-Israeli military campaign in Tabriz, Iran, March 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Matin Hashemi, File)
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First responders inspect the remains of a residential building hit in an overnight strike during the U.S.-Israeli military campaign in Tabriz, Iran, March 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Matin Hashemi, File)
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The group uses remote satellite sensing and open-source intelligence to identify damage and score environmental risks to people, ecosystems and agricultural land. So far, it has recorded more than 400 environmentally concerning incidents related to the war, though much is still unknown due to delays in satellite imagery and an internet blackout in Iran, Weir said.
Attacks on oil- and gas-related sites create some of the worst environmental risks because of impacts to air quality and soil and water pollution, as well as health threats to people. Harder to quantify are risks from bombed military sites, some of which are deeply buried and some near populated areas, adding to “huge uncertainties” around potential impacts, Weir said.
The air pollution unleashed could lead to many health problems
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Plumes of smoke and fire rise after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone struck an oil facility, according to authorities, in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, March 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri, File)
Plumes of smoke and fire rise after debris from an intercepted Iranian drone struck an oil facility, according to authorities, in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, March 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri, File)
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Perhaps the most enduring images of the war are of darkened skies from oil infrastructure set ablaze by airstrikes, including two weeks ago when black rain fell near Tehran, Iran’s capital.
Soot, ash and toxic chemicals from strikes on fuel depots and a refinery combined with water droplets in the atmosphere and fell back to Earth as an oily, acidic rain that prompted warnings to stay indoors. Microscopic soot raises risks of lung and heart problems, while toxic chemicals pose long-term cancer risks and heavy metals from the fallout could contaminate soil and water supplies, experts said.
Debris and contamination from missiles, as well as potential strikes on manufacturing facilities and other infrastructure also could unleash harmful pollution throughout the region, experts said.
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“If you hit an ammonia-producing plant for fertilizer or for food production … those release chemicals that are absolutely toxic and harmful if they spread,” said Mohammed Mahmoud, head of Middle East Climate and Water Policy with the United Nations University Institute of Water, Environment and Health and founder of the Climate and Water Initiative.
Intensive fossil fuel emissions also are spiking levels of greenhouse gases that cause climate change, experts said. The carbon accounting platform Greenly estimated that the U.S. military alone released almost 2 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases in just the first six days of the war, meaning the actual amount generated by the fighting is certainly much higher, when accounting for Israeli and Iranian emissions and damage to infrastructure.
That is a significant amount in such a short time, as in an entire year around 50 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases are released around the entire world, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Global oil shortages also are causing some countries to resume or increase their use of coal, which creates more air pollution that hurts people, and more greenhouse gas emissions.
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Continued access to clean water is a big concern
Countries in the arid Persian Gulf region rely on hundreds of desalination plants for drinking water, raising health and security risks if plants are damaged or water is polluted, experts say.
Iran has said a U.S airstrike damaged one of its desalination plants, while neighboring Bahrain accused Iran of damaging one of its plants. Experts fear more could be targeted the longer the war goes on.
People in the region “struggle with having access to clean drinking water, even at peace times,” said Madani, the Iranian scientist and U.N. official. “Any damage to water infrastructure can have long-lasting impacts.”
Weir worries that pollution, including oil, from sunken ships and other sources could clog desalination plants or that they could be knocked offline by attacks on power plants.
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Experts say pollution also could damage fisheries and important ecosystems. Though some contaminants will be dispersed and diluted by water that moves through the gulf, heavy metals and toxic chemicals still could settle in sediment.
“It’s an enclosed basin, quite shallow,” Weir said. “There are sensitive habitats there, coral reefs, seagrass meadows, sensitive species which could be impacted.”
Nuclear risks are largely unknown
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An Israeli soldier stands next to a fragment of a missile fired from Iran and intercepted by Israeli air defense system embedded in an open field in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, March 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg, File)
An Israeli soldier stands next to a fragment of a missile fired from Iran and intercepted by Israeli air defense system embedded in an open field in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, March 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg, File)
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The U.N. nuclear watchdog has not had access to Iranian nuclear sites, including facilities targeted in June by the United States and Israel, meaning their status is largely unknown.
Possible attacks on large and small nuclear sites throughout the region is “another thing to worry about,” because of immediate and long-term health and environmental impacts, said Madani. Exposure can cause skin damage and radiation sickness, while long-term risks include cancer, heart disease and genetic damage.
U.S. and Israeli officials have said one of the war’s aims is to destroy Iran’s ability to produce nuclear weapons.
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After Israel and the U.S. this month bombed an Iranian uranium enrichment installation, Iran retaliated by firing missiles at two Israeli towns, including one with a nuclear research center. Israel said the facility wasn’t damaged.
“We are hearing that there is no major radiation or change in the level of pollutants so that makes us hopeful that nothing has gone wrong,” Madani said. “But the risk is always there.”
Addressing environmental damage could take decades
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A thick plume of smoke rises from an oil storage facility hit by a U.S.-Israeli strike in Tehran, Iran, March 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)
A thick plume of smoke rises from an oil storage facility hit by a U.S.-Israeli strike in Tehran, Iran, March 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)
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After the war, as Iran and other countries rebuild, environmental damage could be a low priority, experts said.
The focus will be on energy and water infrastructure, manufacturing plants and food production facilities, Mahmoud said. Some pollution, especially to the gulf or other waterways, “I doubt will be addressed soon, and in some cases, not at all.”
Weir said environmental damage isn’t addressed properly after most conflicts because it’s expensive and “humanitarian needs come first,” even if environmental risks are high.
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In densely populated Tehran, for example, a huge number of strikes have hit not just oil infrastructure, but also buildings and residential areas, generating harmful contamination from pulverized building materials. People are being exposed to dust and chemicals, which may continue for a long time after the war eventually ends and rebuilding begins.
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The building will be demolished to make way for a new development
A city centre building that housed TK Maxx and Woolworths is set to be demolished. Peterborough City Council announced the completion of the sale of the building in Bridge Street at its full council meeting on Wednesday (March 25).
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If plans are approved, new owners, MJS, plan to demolish the current building and replace it with a “landmark building” that offers a mix of retail and accommodation. In a social media video, leader of the council, Councillor Shabina Qayyum said: “Subject to planning approval, this building is going to be completely demolished and showcase retail on the lower floor, with accommodation on the top floor and landscaped areas, so it actually joins in with our city centre street scene.
“What’s going to be wonderful is that when this eyesore of a wall comes down, you will see the whole of the area have a regenerated look to it.”
MJS has previously completed renovation works of the Guild House in Peterborough, and is also working on Whitworth Mill at Fletton Quays.
In 2020, the council purchased the building for just over £4 million. The TK Maxx shop was then moved into the Queensgate shopping centre, where it remains today. The council initially received six bids for the building.
What’s in store for you today? (Picture: Metro.co.uk)
The Moon in Leo links with Neptune in Aries, putting connections and relationships in the spotlight. Everything feels charged with a potentially romantic energy.
Pisces, Capricorn, and Scorpio, it’s your relationship with yourself and your work that you are drawn to focus on today. Things are rich in colour, so bask in this.
Consider the role that others fulfil in your life today, and yours in theirs. Check in with yourself and the energy levels you are sharing.
Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Friday March 27, 2026.
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The Moon-Leo alliance means confidence and creativity blur into something dreamlike. You’re inspired, expressive, and slightly whimsical, though not everything is meant to be taken literally. Follow intuition but be practical too. This is a good time to create, perform, dream, or simply believe in yourself a little more. Trust the vision, then let it evolve naturally.
Home, memories, or private longings may seem very vivid. Let them speak through creativity, rest, or quiet pleasure. You don’t need to explain every mood, as such things are meant to be felt, not analysed. Daydreams can be healing, especially when paired with kindness toward yourself and close ones. And comfort relaxes you when you slow down enough to notice it.
Your words shimmer with feeling, and conversations can be subtle but filled with big promises. Inspiration flows, though facts may blur. A compliment, idea, or story can lift spirits more than you expect. Creativity thrives through writing or channelling artistic talents. Share generously however save big decisions for later. Today is for connecting, not wrapping things up.
Generosity meets imagination, and emotions feel warmer, richer, and idealistic as the Moon aligns with Neptune. You may feel inspired to give, spend, or share more than usual. Pause before overpromising, but don’t close the door on happiness. When you respect what truly matters to you, you’ll truly thrive. Avoid committing to anything that is too good to be true!
The Moon in your sign connects with Neptune in Aries, so charisma and imagination pair up, and self-expression turns luminous. You’ll feel romantic and even a tad unreal, in a good way. Creativity flows when you stop trying to impress and tune into subtle inspiration. Follow intuition but keep promises flexible. When heart and vision align, you shine and enchant.
Your sixth sense is at work beneath the surface, even if you can’t explain it. Amazing insights arrive through dreams or feelings that don’t fit your calculations. You don’t need to have everything organised, so if something feels vague, give it time. Rest, reflection, and creativity are productive in their own way. Compassion toward yourself can open unexpected doors.
Cosmic messages for Cosmic messages for Virgo today
Libra
September 24 to October 23
Your social life feels warmer, more fascinating, and maybe idealised. You’ll feel inspired by people, causes, or creative plans that lift your spirits. Enjoy the feeling but avoid promising more than you can give. Kindness travels far now when it’s genuine rather than with a result in mind. Still, it’s wise not to take everyone at face value – get to know them better first.
Your public image, goals, or work dreams feel infused with emotion and imagination. You may glimpse a future version of yourself that feels inspiring but slightly out of reach. Don’t force anything yet. Let this vision motivate, not pressure you. Creativity at work or compassionate leadership really helps too. Even so, be mindful of idealising authority figures.
Inspiration arrives, and your sense of possibility is expansive and heartfelt. Ideas sparkle, dreams feel reachable, and confidence softens into compassion. It’s a good time for learning, creating, teaching, or believing in something again. Just avoid promising the moon before checking you can deliver it. Follow the urge toward meaning but avoid escapist tendencies.
Emotions take on richer colour today as practical concerns soften and deeper feelings surface, especially around trust, intimacy, or shared dreams. You may sense more than you can neatly explain. That’s fine, as this is a day for instincts, not fact-finding. Inspiration can arrive through art, music, or an honest conversation that feels unexpectedly tender and supportive.
As the Moon in Leo links with Neptune in Aries, connections feel warmer, more romantic, and slightly idealised. You may see the best in others, sometimes before they see it themselves. Enjoy the glow but keep expectations flexible. This is a wonderful time for creativity, forgiveness, and heartfelt conversations, as listening matters as much as sharing.
Your daily life gets a splash of colour and compassion as routine tasks feel more emotional, creative, or slightly theatrical. You may look for meaning in the mundane or inspiration in your work. Let imagination soften obligations without drifting into avoidance. This is a beautiful day to care for yourself. Music, art, or a gentle yoga session lifts your energy fast.
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Scientists have only fully begun to understand how the medication works after six decades.
Metformin has been prescribed to type 2 diabetes patients to control blood sugar levels for over 60 years, yet scientists have only now begun to fully understand how it works. A new study, published in Science Advances, indicates that the drug works directly within the brain, potentially paving the way for innovative treatment approaches.
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In 2025, researchers at the Baylor College of Medicine in the US pinpointed a brain pathway through which the drug appears to function, alongside its effects on biological processes elsewhere in the body. Makoto Fukuda, a pathophysiologist at Baylor, explained: “It’s been widely accepted that metformin lowers blood glucose primarily by reducing glucose output in the liver. Other studies have found that it acts through the gut.
“We looked into the brain as it is widely recognized as a key regulator of whole-body glucose metabolism. We investigated whether and how the brain contributes to the anti-diabetic effects of metformin.” Earlier research by some of the same scientists had identified a brain protein called Rap1 as influencing glucose metabolism, particularly within a region of the brain known as the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH).
In their 2025 study, experiments on mice demonstrated that metformin travels to the VMH, where it combats type 2 diabetes by effectively deactivating Rap1.
When the team bred mice without Rap1, metformin had no effect on a diabetes-like condition – despite other medications proving effective. This provides compelling evidence that metformin operates within the brain through a mechanism different from other medications.
The research team was also able to examine closely the specific neurones that metformin was influencing. In future, this could pave the way for more precise treatments that specifically target these neurones.
Fukuda said: “We also investigated which cells in the VMH were involved in mediating metformin’s effects.
“We found that SF1 neurons are activated when metformin is introduced into the brain, suggesting they’re directly involved in the drug’s action.”
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Metformin is both long-lasting and relatively inexpensive. It functions by decreasing the glucose produced by the liver and enhancing the body’s insulin efficiency, thereby helping to control type 2 diabetes symptoms.
We now understand it very likely operates through the brain, in addition to the liver and gut.
Obviously, this requires confirmation through human studies, but once that’s established, we may be able to identify methods to enhance metformin’s effects and increase its potency.
Fukuda added: “These findings open the door to developing new diabetes treatments that directly target this pathway in the brain.
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“In addition, metformin is known for other health benefits, such as slowing brain aging. We plan to investigate whether this same brain Rap1 signaling is responsible for other well-documented effects of the drug on the brain.”
These findings also align with other compelling research suggesting the same drug can decelerate brain ageing and extend lifespan. As our knowledge of how metformin functions continues to grow, it could well be prescribed for a far wider range of conditions in the years ahead.
While metformin is generally considered safer than many other type 2 diabetes treatments, side effects aren’t uncommon with gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhoea, and stomach discomfort affecting as many as 75 per cent of patients.
Additional complications can arise in those with conditions such as kidney impairment, posing further risks to overall health.
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Metformin is also classified as a gerotherapeutic: a drug capable of slowing various ageing processes within the body. Research has demonstrated, for instance, that it can limit DNA damage and encourage gene activity linked to longevity.
Earlier studies have indicated that metformin can reduce deterioration in the brain and even lower the risk of long COVID.
A 2025 study involving more than 400 postmenopausal women examined the comparative effects of metformin and another diabetes medication known as sulfonylurea.
Those taking metformin were found to have a 30 per cent lower risk of dying before the age of 90 compared to those on sulfonylurea, highlighting the drug’s promising role in combating the effects of ageing.
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A deeper understanding of how metformin affects the body as a whole could guide medical professionals in prescribing it beyond diabetes treatment, and potentially enhance its safety profile even further.
Fukuda added: “This discovery changes how we think about metformin. It’s not just working in the liver or the gut, it’s also acting in the brain.”
A fault was found with the hydraulic scissor lift mortuary trolley after Mrs Blundell’s death
An undertaker was accidentally crushed to death after she positioned herself in the scissor lift of a coffin lifter machine at a funeral parlour and it descended unexpectedly onto her, an inquest concluded.
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Funeral administrator Sally Blundell, 58, was found trapped underneath a device used to move bodies from cold storage in a back room at a branch of the East of England Co-op Funeral Services. The grandmother had been working alone at the branch in Swaffham, Norfolk on December 1 2023 and was found by a colleague from a neighbouring branch in Dereham.
The coroner earlier told the hearing it was not known why Mrs Blundell had “inserted herself” in the frame of the device but that her glasses had been found on the floor. Jurors returned a conclusion of accidental death after hearing evidence at an inquest in Norwich, on the third day of proceedings.
They recorded that she died at some point between 9.46am when she was last seen on CCTV at the funeral parlour and 12.06pm when she was found. The inquest was earlier told there are no CCTV cameras in sensitive areas of the funeral parlour where bodies are kept.
Concerns had been raised after a woman who had made arrangements to see a deceased relative at the branch attended for her 11am appointment and found there were no staff at the funeral parlour. She tried calling the celebrant she had been dealing with and a message was passed to another branch, with a colleague from the Dereham branch attending and finding Mrs Blundell dead.
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The medical cause of death for Mrs Blundell, of Great Cressingham, was recorded as “contusion and compression of the chest by an external object”.
Norfolk area coroner Yvonne Blake told jurors that expert evidence indicated a fault was found with the hydraulic scissor lift mortuary trolley after Mrs Blundell’s death. She said the fault was that the trolley “descended unexpectedly”.
The coroner said she was considering writing to the equipment’s manufacturer A R Twigg and Son with her concerns about this issue in a Prevention of Future Deaths report.
She was told by barrister Dominic Kay for the East of England Co-op that the chain no longer uses this type of trolley.
Nga Ngo Quynh, from Malton, was named as the national Artist of the Year with her painting Before the Night Falls in an award organised by packaging and delivery company PACK & SEND.
2026 marks the second year in a row the competition has been won by a North Yorkshire artist, following Cawood-based Sophia Hood’s win in 2025.
Recommended reading:
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Competition organiser PACK & SEND specialises in the shipment of fragile, large, unusual and valuable items, and has previously handled works by Banksy, Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, Tracey Emin and Jeff Koons amongst others.
PACK & SEND Marketing Director Sam Whittaker expressed his delight at announcing Ms Ngo as the winner.
He said: “Influenced by rural environments and shifting weather, her work has been described as reflecting an interest in stillness, light and the subtle presence of human life within the land.
“Through restrained composition and layered mark-making, she seeks to create spaces where narrative remains open, allowing viewers to pause and reflect.
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“Her practice continues to develop toward contemporary exhibition contexts, with a focus on visual impact and mood within the landscape.”
Born in Hanoi, Vietnam, Ms Ngo has lived in the UK for the past four years.
She has described the winning piece as exploring landscape as a quiet form of storytelling, focusing on atmosphere, memory and moments of transition rather than specific locations.
Speaking on winning the award, she said: “I’m really pleased to have my artwork recognised in this way by PACK & SEND, which has worked with some of the most famous and respected fine artists in the world.
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“It’s great to see an international company of their standing supporting and championing artists at grassroots level, helping artists like myself introduce their work to wider audiences.”
Along with the acclaim, Mrs Ngo also received £250 worth of vouchers to support the shipping of her own art with PACK & SEND.
As an approved provider to LAPADA, the largest association of professional art and antiques dealers in the UK, PACK & SEND provide shipping services to galleries, collectors, dealers, artists and exhibitions around the world.
For more information about Nga Ngo Quynh’s art, go to https://www.instagram.com/qnga.rt/. To find out more about how PACK & SEND works with fine artists, go to www.packsend.co.uk/leedsnorth or call 0345 873 9990.
“No one should face threats, intimidation or assault simply for doing their job. We need a coordinated approach across Government, the Met and the NHS to ensure staff are safe, reporting is easy and meaningful, and offenders face real consequences. Without this, we risk a growing culture of fear that harms staff wellbeing and undermines patient care.”
The ECMWF weather model shows temperatures on the morning of April 9 could drop as low as -2C – creating the conditions for wintry showers.
Ethan Blackshaw Deputy Publishing Lead (Mirror) and Ryan Carroll Reporter
22:52, 26 Mar 2026
Advanced weather modelling maps show a surprise blizzard will soon move across Scotland from the east and bring snow to several major cities.
The ECMWF weather model shows temperatures on the morning of April 9 could drop as low as -2C – creating the conditions for wintry showers.
At 6am, the weather maps show snow building to the east, with rain moving across the country at first. Snow should be confined south of the border in the Pennines around this time, although over the subsequent hours it could hit several low-lying areas.
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The maps show snow falling in parts of Scotland by midday, as the ‘Beast from the East’ storm makes progress. Across the UK, only Northern Ireland looks set to miss out on the snow entirely.
The Met Office has also suggested snow could impact some parts of the UK next month, reports the Mirror. Its forecast for March 31 to April 9 suggests “high pressure to the southwest of the UK” will dominate our weather during this period.
It adds that “wetter and windier weather can be expected in the north”, whereas southern areas can expect more settled conditions. However, while temperatures are expected to remain “near to or a little above average”, the national weather agency says some colder periods are on the cards – bringing a chance of snow.
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The Met Office adds: “Whilst temperatures will be generally near to or a little above average, some colder interludes are possible, especially in the north, where there could be some wintry showers at times.”
BBC Weather says there is a chance of “chillier flows” to the UK next month. The BBC forecast for April 6 to 19 states: “The strongest high pressure anomalies could eventually become positioned at higher latitudes, most likely to the north or north-west of the UK, towards Iceland and Greenland. As a result, there would be a chance of chillier flows from the northerly quarter towards and through mid-April.
“Although a significantly cold outbreak has rather low odds, temperatures should dip near or a little below normal. This realignment could allow low pressure systems to develop closer to the UK, leading to the potential for wetter weather to develop later, at least in the south.
“There is another world in which high pressure could build more towards Scandinavia, and this might promote milder south-east to southerly flows through the middle of April.”
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Life-saving equipment was stolen from one of the fire stations
Residents have been urged to be alert after two Cambridgeshire fire stations were broken into this week. Chatteris fire station was broken into in the early hours of Monday morning (March 23), while Gamlingay fire station was broken into on Tuesday evening (March 24).
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At Chatteris, life-saving cutting equipment used at road traffic collisions and other rescues was stolen. Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents living next to or opposite its fire stations in the county to remain alert to suspicious activity following these incidents this week, which have reportedly also happened at other fire stations across England.
Chief Fire Officer Matthew Warren said: “Break-ins to fire stations are happening across the country, and this week we have been victims twice. We are asking local residents to please help be our eyes and ears, to report any suspicious activity and make a note, if possible, of any vehicle details, including registration number, as well as descriptions of any individuals involved.
“Please also save any CCTV or Ring doorbell footage if it has captured any suspicious activity. The incidents have happened when it’s dark, in the evening and early morning.”
Chief Fire Officer Warren continued: “Entry has been forced, so if you hear a noise coming from one of our stations, please do just look and check to see if it is our firefighters, don’t assume it is. This support by our local communities would be greatly appreciated.”
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Cambridgeshire Police are investigating the break-ins and has urged anyone with any information to contact them quoting 35/21532/26.
Made some brilliant saves, the pick of the bunch being his one-handed effort to keep out Demirovic. Harsher critics might well wonder if he could have done better for the goal, mind.
Neco Williams 7
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Defended pretty well. No player made more tackles. Not quite as influential as usual in possession, but a fairly good performance nonetheless. Agony in the penalty shootout.
Dylan Lawlor 8 – STAR MAN
Read the game so well throughout. So confident on the ball, and carried possession through the lines brilliantly. Points to a very bright future on a disappointing night.
Joe Rodon 8
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Made a brilliant sliding challenge to deny Memic in the first half. No player won more in the air all night.
Jay Dasilva 7
Made a couple of decent challenges and got himself into some good positions in extra-time in possession. Just didn’t have the quality to finish. Made more clearances than anyone else.
Ethan Ampadu 7
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A decent showing on a night where he captained the side again. Competed well in midfield and played some key passes at times.
Daniel James 8
Pace caused all sorts of problems for the Bosnians. Scored a superb goal, and could have had a second were it not for the crossbar. Subbed.
Harry Wilson 8
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Unlucky to have been denied by the post in the first half. Worked hard and was once again the man Wales looked to for inspiration.
Jordan James 6
Industrious in the middle of the park all evening. Mopped up well in midfield but was a little too untidy in possession at times. Subbed.
David Brooks 7
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Was given a bruising night by the Bosnians. Deserves immense credit for sticking to the task, though, and linked up pretty well with others. Also produced some really useful driving runs. Subbed.
Brennan Johnson 5
Another difficult night in what’s been a difficult season for the forward. Snapped at a shot but otherwise couldn’t quite get into the game. A traumatic penalty miss too.
Subs:
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Liam Cullen (on for Jordan James 56) – A little too chaotic in possession, but did well defensively – 6
Mark Harris (on for Brooks 74) – Got himself into some good positions that he should have made more of – 6
Sorba Thomas (on for Dan James 84) – Put in cross after cross in extra-time. Deserved more on what was a lively cameo – 7
In a pre-sentence report, Spence told a probation officer that he accepted his guilt over the incidents and said he was “sickened over his behaviour”, adding that he was “out of my head on alcohol and drugs”
A sentenced Co Antrim prisoner who tried to hijack two cars in Belfast city centre was handed a 50 month jail sentence on Thursday.
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Andrew Bradley Spence, 23, of Madigan Park, Carrickfergus, had previously pleaded guilty to two attempted hijackings, two counts of criminal damage and one of possessing an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence.
Belfast Crown Court heard that during the first incident at around 9.45 pm on March 9, 2024, a man was sitting in his black Hyundai car parked in Royal Avenue.
Prosecution barrister Emma McIlveen said Spence approached the driver’s side of the car, opened the door, put a “sharpened piece of metal” towards the victim’s face and told him to get out of the vehicle.
The victim got out and Spence climbed in, stealing £70 in cash from the dashboard.
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“The victim tried to re-enter the vehicle but the defendant used the sharpened piece of metal to threaten him and also damaged an interior door panel.”
Spence got out of the car and fled on foot in the direction of Belfast City Hall.
Belfast Recorder Judge Philip Gilpin heard that at around 10pm that same evening, a woman was sitting in her red Ford Focus car in a car park in Bankmore Street.
Said Ms McIlveen: “This defendant opened the driver’s side door and told his victim: ‘I have a knife and I am going to f***ing stab you’.
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“He then pulled his victim out of her car at which point she attempted to fight back. She shouted for some assistance from a group of pedestrians who were nearby.
“When they became aware of the defendant, he returned the car keys to the victim and he walked off in the direction of Bedford Street.”
Spence was subsequently arrested by police and was found not to be wearing an electronic tag which he had forcibly removed.
He denied involvement in both attempted hijackings and became verbally abusive and agitated towards interviewing police.
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In a pre-sentence report, Spence told a probation officer that he accepted his guilt over the incidents and said he was “sickened over his behaviour”, adding that he was “out of my head on alcohol and drugs”.
He also extended an apology to his victims.
The probation officer said Spence was not assessed as posing a danger to the public but was a high likelihood of reoffending.
Judge Gilpin said the victims in the case “will have endured a frightening experience”.
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The female said in a Victim Impact Statement that at the time of the incident she “genuinely feared for her safety”.
She said that the emotional and psychological toll was both “significant and ongoing”.
She wrote that travelling or driving “fills me with dread” and felt “a sense of shame and guilt” that she should have done things differently that evening.
“It has affected my ability to relate to others, in particular men. I have become more defensive or guarded and less trusting.
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“The impact of the incident has left true and lasting harm on me,” she wrote.
The court heard Spence had 64 previous convictions, including an entry for hijacking in March 2023.
Defence solicitor Paul Dougan said that in 2025 Spence was sentenced at Downpatrick Crown Court for the hijacking offence and driving whilst disqualified and received a total sentence of eight years and two months, which was divided equally between custody and probation.
Mr Dougan said in relation to the ‘Downpatrick case’, Spence was granted High Court bail in the lead up to Christmas 2023.
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But when he was arrested over the ‘Belfast case’, his bail was revoked and he was remanded in custody.
He said that if the two cases had been dealt with together at Downpatrick Crown Court, the judge would have had to take into account the principle of totality in sentencing Spence.
Mr Dougan added that Spence’s release date for the ‘Downpatrick case’ was October 10, 2027.
In his sentencing remarks, the Belfast Recorder said: “The exercise for this court is to determine how much more of a sentence would the defendant have received if Downpatrick Crown Court had also dealt with the offences I am dealing with today.”
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Judge Gilpin said he would take into account the principle of totality and handed down a 50 month sentence.
However, Judge Gilpin said the 50 month sentence would run concurrently to the sentence imposed in the ‘Downpatrick case’ which would not interfere with Spence’s release date in 2027.
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