Naomi Church and Emily Bell went up against each other for the women’s title, while Josh McDonald and Tyler Spence competed for the men’s title.

Each duo competed across five events as well as the Eliminator challenge in order to be crowned champion.

Once again, father and son duo Bradley and Barney Walsh took viewers through the action, with Guy Mowbray providing commentary.

Ahead of the final airing, a synopsis for the episode shared: “In the final, Viper leaves the Gladiators gobsmacked, Bradley races Electro on the track, and much to Guy Mowbray’s surprise, Legend tries his hand at commentary.”

Who won Gladiators 2026?

In the end, Emily emerged victorious in the women’s event, and Josh secured the win in the men’s event.

Emily was the youngest woman to compete in Gladiators this series, and celebrated her 23rd birthday on the day of the final’s filming.

In a twist of fate, she ended up competing against the oldest contestant in this series, Naomi, who is 40 years old.

The business consultant and former England U16 hockey captain started strongly, gaining an advantage over Emily in the ‘Destruction’ challenge, but lost a bit of ground in ‘The Edge’ and ‘Duel’.

It meant Emily had a six-and-a-half-second head start in the final ‘Eliminator’ challenge, which she used to her advantage to get over the finish line first.

Meanwhile, Josh, who is a former Royal Marine Commando trainee and now an Area Sales Manager, managed to beat Tyler in the men’s event.

Josh gained an advantage over Tyler in the opening ‘Unleash’ challenge and never looked back from there.

He had a three-second head start in the final ‘Eliminator’ challenge, but it was tense all the way until Josh got up the travelator first and got over the finish line.

What does the winner of Gladiators get?

Winners of the rebooted BBC series Gladiators get a trophy shaped like the “G” logo.

This differs from the 1990s ITV series, which gave out a cash prize, as well as a new car.

In total, 12 cars and prizes totalling more than £45,000 were won over seven series of UK Gladiators on ITV.

What did you think of the Gladiators 2026 final? Let us know in the comments.

Fleetwood schoolkids plagued by horrid stink say ‘we can’t play out’ in a plea to the Prime Minister

Children at a school in Lancashire have issued a desperate plea to the Prime Minister, saying the stink from a notorious landfill has become so bad ‘they can’t play outside’.

Flakefleet Primary School is in Fleetwood, where residents have been plagued by a stink from its landfill on Jameson Road since summer 2024. Locals have reported a strong sulphur-like stench in the air, which some have said is causing them headaches and difficulty breathing.

It is said to worsen during heatwaves, with residents unable to open their doors or windows due to the stench.

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Now, children from the primary school have taken part in a TikTok video which the school hopes might reach the orbit of Number 10.

“Dear Prime Minister…we wrote you a letter but we didn’t even get a reply,” they say in the video. “Last year we asked for help. We thought you would listen, we thought things would get better. But nothing’s changed.

“It still stinks. Some days its worse than ever. We have to play out in it. Some days its that bad we don’t want to. It makes us feel sick.

“When we get visitors it’s embarrassing. We’re just kids but we’re taught to stand up for what’s right. We’re trying to be heard but it feels like no one is listening. Please help us to stop the stink.”

Landfill owners Transwaste insist they have “undertaken a great deal of work to bring the site up to modern standards”. However, last month campaigners discovered there had been up to 70 permit breaches between February 2024 and November 2025, Lancs Live previously reported

.

Transwaste said the breaches need to be seen in an operational context, with many of the breaches relating to a single issue which, in some cases, inflated the actual number of breaches.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said previously: “We understand how distressing the odours from the Jameson Road landfill site have been for local residents. We are maintaining an increased regulatory response and require Transwaste to take all necessary steps to comply fully with its environmental permit.

“Where we identify breaches of permit, we follow up with regulatory action as needed. We will continue to keep residents and the local community updated through a variety of engagement activities.”

Hamsterley, around 15 minutes from Bishop Auckland, has built a reputation as a peaceful rural destination, with people drawn to its village setting, open countryside and easy access to Hamsterley Forest.

Visitors have described the area as a “hidden gem”, with many praising its traditional feel and the range of outdoor activities nearby.

Hamsterley (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Set between Bishop Auckland and the North Pennines, Hamsterley offers what many say is a quieter side of County Durham, while still being close to one of the North East’s most popular woodland attractions.

The village itself has been described by one visitor as a “quintessential English village”, with stone-built cottages, surrounding farmland and a strong sense of community.

Another said it has “lots of character”, making it an ideal place for those looking for a slower pace and countryside views.

Much of Hamsterley’s appeal comes from its position next to Hamsterley Forest, a vast woodland spanning more than 2,000 hectares.

The forest attracts walkers, cyclists, wildlife enthusiasts and families throughout the year, with routes ranging from gentle woodland strolls to more challenging trails.

It is particularly popular with mountain bikers, with purpose-built routes helping make it one of the best-known biking locations in the North East.

Visitors have also praised the forest for its wildlife and scenery, with one saying it is a “fantastic place for a day out” with “beautiful walking trails, great cycling routes, and plenty of wildlife to see”.

Hamsterley Forest (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Another reviewer said the village itself is “charming”, adding that it offers “lovely countryside views and a real sense of community”.

As well as the forest, Hamsterley is close to several major attractions, including Raby Castle, High Force, Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland, making it a convenient base for exploring wider County Durham and the Durham Dales.

The village also has links to one of Britain’s best-known television naturalists.

Broadcaster, botanist and environmental campaigner David Bellamy lived in Hamsterley for many years before he died in 2019.

Its location beside the forest reflected the strong connection to nature that shaped much of his life and work.

Bellamy, who taught at Durham University and played a major role in conservation work in the county, was closely associated with the landscapes of the North East.

His presence has added another layer of interest to a village already valued for its setting and rural character.

For many visitors, though, it is the combination of countryside, woodland and peace and quiet that stands out most.

Just a short drive from Bishop Auckland, Hamsterley continues to attract attention as one of County Durham’s most scenic and best-loved village locations.

Bridlington Coastguard Rescue Team said it, alongside colleagues from Filey Coastguard and the Filey RNLI Lifeboat, was called out after reports of a capsized boat in the sea off North Yorkshire today (March 28).

The vessel was seen off the coast of Filey’s Haven Primrose Valley Holiday Park – close to Hunmanby Gap.

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A spokesperson said: “On arrival, teams quickly assessed the situation and confirmed that both persons on board had safely exited the water prior to their arrival. They were cold but, fortunately, uninjured.

“The occupants are now making their own arrangements for the recovery of the vessel.”

The service also issued a reminder for anyone heading out on the water to check the conditions, wear appropriate safety equipment, and let someone know your plans.

In an emergency at the coast, people should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said they were called at around 4.50am on Saturday, March 28, to reports of a collision on Market Street, Stoneclough, where a vehicle had struck a residential property.

Roads in the area were cordoned off as police launched an investigation.

The crash caused extensive damage to the home, with the vehicle ploughing through an iron fence and front door before coming to rest inside the hallway.

The vehicle had gone through the iron railing fence into the home (Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

Homeowner Tony Walters, 72, described the moment of the impact, saying: “I was asleep, I thought a bomb had gone off.

“There’s been significant structural damage to my house.

“The vehicle went straight through my steel iron railings and front door and came to rest in the hallway.

“I was in shock.”

“Thankfully, my wife is away at our holiday home, so it was just me and my son. We’re not injured, but the house is very badly damaged,” he added.

Tony said: “It’s also damaged my neighbour’s property, taking parts off the wall and sending a brick through a window.”

More pictures from the scene (Image: Phil Taylor)

A nearby bus stop was also hit and later removed due to the damage.

Emergency services, including officers. and fire crews, attended the scene, with fire crews saying it was a police led incident.

A Bolton Council Highway Maintenance vehicle arrived to help clear the scene (Image: PHIL TAYLOR)

The Serious Collision Unit was on the scene throughout the day carrying out investigations.

The car was removed late afternoon , and council highway maintenance teams attended to clear debris and take away a damaged Bee Network bus stop sign.

A large cordon remained in place for much of the day, affecting sections of Market Street and surrounding roads.

Roads remained closed throughout the day (Image: Phil Taylor)

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: “There is significant damage to a house and enquiries are ongoing to understand the collision and how it occurred.

“To help understand the full circumstances, officers are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage of the incident or of the moments leading up to the incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting log 547 of 28/03/2026.

Information can also be shared via GMP’s online reporting tools or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

French police have thwarted a suspected bomb attack outside a Bank of America building in Paris, and detained a person, authorities say.

Anti-terrorism prosecutors have begun an investigation after a man allegedly tried to ignite an improvised explosive device close to the US bank’s premises.

The incident happened early on Saturday when officers spotted two suspects carrying a shopping bag near the building in the capital’s 8th arrondissement, or district, according to RTL radio, citing police sources.

One of the suspects, who was holding a lighter, was attempting to light a device, RTL said.

He was arrested in the area at around 3.25am local time (2.25am UK time) and was taken into custody, according to Le Parisien.

The second suspect fled the scene and remains at large.

The detained suspect told police he had been contacted via Snapchat and paid 600 euros (£520) to carry out the act, adding he was driven to the scene by another person, ⁠Le Parisien reported.

The newspaper said the device consisted of a 5-litre container ​filled with an unidentified liquid and an explosive charge made of 650g ​of powder.

It was secured and handed over to forensic experts from the Paris police laboratory, according to Le Parisien.

The Paris police authority declined to comment.

“We are aware of the situation and are communicating with the authorities,” a Bank of America spokesperson said.

An investigation into alleged terrorism-related offences has been opened by the national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office, or PNAT.

The suspected offences include attempted damage by fire or by a dangerous means, the manufacture of an incendiary or explosive device, the possession and transport of such devices with the intent to prepare dangerous damage, and involvement in a terrorist criminal association.

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France’s interior minister Laurent Nunez praised officers, saying on social media: “Well done to the rapid intervention of a Paris police prefecture unit, which made it possible to thwart a violent act of a terrorist nature overnight in Paris.

“Vigilance remains at a very high level.

“I commend all security and intelligence forces, fully mobilised under my authority in the current international context.”

Since the Iran war started, French authorities have strengthened the protection of Iranian opposition figures and increased security around sites that may be a target, including those linked to US interests and to the Jewish community, Mr Nunez previously said.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka beat Coco Gauff 6-2 4-6 6-3 to retain her Miami Open title and extend her exceptional start to 2026.

Belarusian Sabalenka, 27, is the fifth female player – and the first since Iga Swiatek in 2022 – to complete the ‘Sunshine Double’ by winning titles at Indian Wells and Miami in the same season.

Victoria Azarenka, Kim Clijsters and Steffi Graf are the other three women to have previously achieved that feat.

Sabalenka has won three WTA Tour titles and 23 of her 24 matches during this calendar year.

Her only loss was in January’s Australian Open final to world number two Elena Rybakina, who had been the only player to win a set against Sabalenka in 2026 before American Gauff sent the Miami final into a decider.

In exploring lost and abandoned villages dating back to the 13th century, The Northern Echo has uncovered several places that no longer appear on modern maps but are recorded in historical documents and guides.

Lost and abandoned villages of Darlington and County Durham

Old Richmond

Located near Gainford in the civil parish of Barforth, Old Richmond is one such vanished settlement.

Barforth, situated in the Teesdale district of County Durham, had a population of just 77 at the time of the 2001 Census, remaining under 100 by 2011.

Due to its small size, details are now preserved within the nearby parish of Ovington.

Positioned along the northern banks of the River Tees, Barforth is home to the remains of Old Richmond.

Though the village itself has disappeared, several historic structures survive, including a dovecote, the ruins of St Lawrence’s Chapel and the still-inhabited Barforth Hall.

Ulnaby

Ulnaby is another deserted village with deep historical roots.

Recognised as an ancient monument, it lies within the grounds of Ulnaby Hall Farm near High Coniscliffe.

This former “toft” village was occupied from the late 13th century until the 16th century. Temporary buildings were later added during the 19th century.

Ulnaby Hall Farm, which dates from the late 16th century, is believed to have replaced an important medieval manorial enclosure connected to the original settlement.

The village once covered around 6.6 hectares, with visible ridge and furrow farming remains to the north and west.

An 1841 document refers to three named fields in the area: Back Field, Eastern Field and the Garths, along with New Acridge Carr to the south.

Whessoe

The medieval village of Whessoe once stood on the northern edge of what is now Faverdale, between High Faverdale and Whessoe Grange farms.

For centuries, earthworks and fragments of medieval buildings marked the site.

However, these remains were levelled in the 1950s.

Up until the mid-20th century, the surrounding area was largely rural, made up of properties including Faverdale House, Middle and High Faverdale farms, Cockerton Grange and Rise Carr.

Originally part of the Cockerton civil parish, the area was incorporated into Darlington in 1915.

Do you remember any of these villages? Let us know in the comments.

Officers were called at 5.55am on Saturday to Kennerleigh Avenue, Austhorpe, to reports of a young woman being found unconscious, West Yorkshire Police said.

She was found to have suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital for medical treatment, but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Four people – two women aged 18, a man aged 20 and a boy aged 17 – were all arrested from a nearby address on suspicion of murder, police said.

All four remain in police custody and a crime scene is in place while officers carry out further inquiries.

The victim remains unidentified and inquiries are ongoing to identify her, police said.

Detectives are also releasing details of her identity in the hope that someone will recognise her.

She is of slim build and has tanned skin. She is described as 5ft 2ins tall and believed to be in her mid to late teens, with green eyes and brown hair with darker roots and blonder ends.

She also has fixed metal braces to her upper and lower teeth.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Superintendent Marc Bowes said: “This is an extremely complex investigation where a young woman has sadly lost her life.

“We are treating her death as murder and have arrested four people in connection with it.

“Despite carrying out extensive inquiries throughout the course of today we have not yet been able to confirm her identity.

“We hope by releasing these details that someone will recognise who she is and come forward.

“I am also keen to speak to anyone who was in the Kennerleigh Avenue area in the early hours of this morning, or anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the vicinity.”

If you can assist this investigation then call 101, or use the live chat options at westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat, quoting log 280 of 28 March.

Information can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

Britain’s Got Talent hosts Ant and Dec ‘changed the rules’ after one act’s future was hanging in the balance

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Britain’s Got Talent presenters Ant and Dec were forced to intervene and ‘change the rules’ after one contestant’s future on the show hung in the balance.

During Saturday’s (March 28) episode of the popular ITV talent programme, judges Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and KSI returned to our screens in their quest to discover the next standout act.

With a £250,000 prize and a coveted spot at the Royal Variety Performance up for grabs, it comes as no surprise that the contestants pulled out all the stops to impress the panel.

One performer in particular caused quite a stir. Kevin Hogg, widely regarded as a dance legend and known as Gateshead’s very own MC Tazo, stepped onto the stage and set about winning over the crowd with his MC abilities.

With his wife and two children, Tyler and Riley, watching proudly from the audience, he encouraged everyone to get to their feet and dance as he performed an original track dedicated entirely to Britain’s Got Talent, reports Belfast Live.

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KSI was clearly won over, with the musician and YouTuber dancing along and declaring Tazo’s song a “banger”. Fellow judge Simon was equally entertained and awarded him a ‘yes’.

Amanda and Alesha, however, were less enthusiastic and both delivered a ‘no’. With three ‘yesses’ required to advance to the next round, it appeared Tazo’s journey was over.

Yet Geordie hosts Ant and Dec had other ideas, stepping in to ‘change the rules’ and securing his place in the next round. As Ant walked onto the stage, he asked: “Can we just give a ‘yes’ then that will be three ‘yesses’?”

With the audience applauding, Simon responded: “OK right, I changed the rules.” Gesturing towards KSI, he clarified: “Two ‘yesses’, four ‘yesses’, he is through.”

Meanwhile, viewers were left puzzled by Simon’s surprising response to another act, with some suggesting “he’s lost the plot”.

Japanese music group Arubai appeared on stage and performed one of Queen’s most iconic songs in a style never before seen on the BGT platform. Their rendition of Don’t Stop Me Now was delivered as a Japanese punk number.

Simon was the only judge to vote ‘yes’, a decision that promptly sparked debate amongst fans who flocked to social media to voice their opinions.

One viewer posted on X: “wtf has happened to Simon he’s lost the plot #bgt.” Another queried: “Simon liked it.? #BGT #BritainsGotTalent.”

Britain’s Got Talent airs Saturday nights on ITV and ITVX.