Iran executes January protester for being Israeli ‘intelligence agent’
Iran says it has executed an Iranian working as an Israeli intelligence official on Saturday after the man is alleged to have engaged in vandalism and violence during nationwide protests in January earlier this year, according to Tasnim news agency.
Erfan Kiani was accused of being a “hired thug of Mossad” and of engaging in the destruction and arson of public and private property, spreading fear and terror across Isfahan while wielding a machete, according to the agency.
He was executed by hanging on Saturday morning shortly after his sentence was confirmed by the Supreme Court.
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Maira Butt25 April 2026 08:05
Recap:
In case you’re just just joining us, here is a recap of the key developments in the ongoing war between the US, Israel and Iran.
All eyes are on Pakistan’s capital Islamabad where talks are reportedly set to take place between US and Iranian representatives this weekend. Tehran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has landed in Pakistan, according to reports, with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to join. Iran has publicly denied that direct talks are taking place.
The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed as the war enters its eighth week. A US blockade nearby also continues with Central Command reporting several interceptions and at least 34 redirections of vessels.
German chancellor Friedrich Merz floated the idea of easing sanctions against Iran in order to speed up a deal, but the suggestion was rejected by his European counterparts as premature
US-Kuwaiti journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin has left Kuwait on Saturday after being released from prison. He was acquitted of all charges after being accused of spreading false information.
Maira Butt25 April 2026 07:45
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Latest pictures from Pakistan show preparation for talks
Pakistan is ramping up security in Islamabad as it prepares to host a potential new round of US–Iran talks, with key envoys converging on the capital.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived, while the White House says US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are due to follow – citing Tehran’s interest in meeting “in person”.
Police officers stand guard near the Serena Hotel, the venue for expected US-Iran talks, in Islamabad’s Red Zone (AFP/Getty)
Iran’s foreign minister arrived in Islamabad on April 24 and US envoys headed to the Pakistani capital in a bid to kickstart a new round of peace negotiations amid a fragile ceasefire (AFP/Getty)
Posters of ‘Islamabad talks’ in Pakistan’s capital dot roads (AFP/Getty)
A police officer stands guard as the motorcade, believed to be carrying Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, arrives (Reuters)
Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 07:30
Trump faces diplomatic backlash after sharing ‘hellhole’ remark about India and China
Donald Trump’s amplification of a comment describing India and China as “hellhole” has drawn severe criticism from lawmakers and advocacy groups and a rare condemnation from Delhi.
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Mr Trump shared on social media a video clip and transcript linked to conservative commentator Michael Savage, who was discussing efforts to end birthright citizenship in the US. Birthright citizenship is the principle under which a child born in a country automatically receives nationality there, regardless of the parents’ immigration status.
Among the remarks reposted by Mr Trump was the statement: “A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s embassy in India voiced its support for Delhi, posting on X: “Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. #Trump, it might just reduce the random [nonsense].”
Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 07:00
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Hormuz crisis drives $4m Panama Canal crossings as global shipping reroutes
Some businesses are paying as much as $4m to secure passage through the Panama Canal as the near-total disruption of the Strait of Hormuz forces global shipping to reroute.
Normally, vessels book transit slots through the canal at fixed rates. But those without reservations can bid for priority access – often paying steep premiums to avoid days-long delays off Panama’s coast.
In recent weeks, those auction prices have surged, driven by escalating tensions between Iran and the United States that have effectively choked traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
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As a result, more ships are diverting to alternative routes, including the Panama Canal, while buyers increasingly source goods from elsewhere to bypass the volatile Middle Eastern corridor.
“With all the bombings, the missiles, the drones, companies are saying it’s safer and less expensive to cross through the Panama Canal,” said Rodrigo Noriega, a Panama City-based lawyer and analyst. “All of this is affecting global supply chains.”
Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 06:45
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US legal adviser says Iran war justified by Tehran’s ‘aggression’ over decades
The State Department’s top lawyer, Reed Rubinstein, argues the campaign is not a new war but a continuation of a long-running conflict with Iran, driven by decades of what Washington calls Iranian aggression – from proxy attacks to missile strikes and nuclear ambitions.
He laid out the case in a statement issued just days before a 1 May deadline under the War Powers Act, which requires the administration to seek congressional approval or halt military operations.
Rubinstein argued that Washington was acting both in its own defence and in “collective self-defence” of Israel, citing what he described as decades of Iranian aggression since the 1979 revolution – including proxy attacks, missile strikes and nuclear ambitions.
He maintained that US actions fall within accepted interpretations of international law on the use of force.
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That position, however, is strongly disputed. Many legal experts say the strikes violate the United Nations Charter, which prohibits the use of force except in cases of self-defence against an imminent threat or with Security Council approval.
Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 06:15
Egypt and Pakistan hold talks over Iran-US ceasefire
Egypt and Pakistan foreign ministers held a phone call to discuss to revive diplomacy between the United States and Iran.
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In a phone call, the two countries’ foreign ministers discussed ways to advance a diplomatic track, stressing that dialogue remains the only viable path to de-escalation.
The outreach comes at a delicate moment, with ceasefire efforts under strain and direct US–Iran engagement still uncertain.
Islamabad and Cairo have increasingly positioned themselves as key intermediaries – relaying messages and coordinating regional efforts to keep talks alive.
Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 06:13
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Watch: Podcaster says Trump’s attack on Iran ‘doesn’t make sense’
Joe Rogan says Trump’s attack on Iran ‘doesn’t make sense’
Rachel Dobkin25 April 2026 06:00
Frustration grows among Pakistanis with capital under lockdown for stalled US-Iran talks: ‘Living in a cage’
Bilal Mazhar Khawaja, 44, runs three restaurants in Islamabad. For the past few days his business has been severely hit, with food supply chains disrupted and movement of staff restricted as the Pakistani capital remains in an indefinite lockdown in anticipation of the stalled US-Iran talks.
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Shweta Sharma25 April 2026 05:49
Ousted Navy secretary refused to leave post until Trump told him directly
Sources close to the publication say that Phelan spent Wednesday night in the White House waiting to see if the president, his once close friend and neighbour, would push back against his dismissal. However, he left empty-handed.
Liverpool are reportedly looking to to sign RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande this summer as Red Bull boss Oliver Mintzlaff has delivered an update
Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff has made his position crystal clear regarding Yan Diomande’s future at RB Leipzig amid speculation linking him with Liverpool. The Reds have been strongly linked with a move for the highly-rated 19-year-old forward ahead of the forthcoming summer transfer window.
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Liverpool are expected to be linked with numerous wide attacking options this summer in light of confirmation that Mohamed Salah will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Diomande has been earmarked as a star in the making and ranks among Europe’s most coveted young talents following a standout debut campaign at Leipzig.
The Ivory Coast international has scored 13 times in all competitions for Leipzig this term, including 12 strikes in the Bundesliga, and is believed to carry a price tag in the region of €100 million (£87m).
Friday evening witnessed Leipzig in Bundesliga action as they secured a comfortable 3-1 home triumph against Union Berlin, with Diomande providing an assist for Ridle Baku’s strike, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Mintzlaff, Leipzig’s chairman of the supervisory board and Red Bull boss, has delivered his assessment on the speculation swirling around Diomande’s future amid reported interest from Liverpool.
The Leipzig chief has outlined precisely why he remains intent on keeping Diomande at the club beyond this summer, despite suggestions that a departure could materialise during the transfer window.
“I can say: If I were sporting director, I wouldn’t sell this young player, who hasn’t even completed a full season with us,” Mintzlaff is quoted as telling Sky Germany.
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“No matter what price is being asked. I believe he’s a player who can still develop further, because he’s still very young. And he can certainly become more expensive.”
“Of course, there are other clubs where players also want to take the next step – FC Bayern is one of them, but also clubs from England and Spain,” he added.
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“But we have to expect that a player, even if he delivers outstanding performances here, doesn’t leave again after just one year.
“Therefore, I can only recommend to the management that they keep this player with us for the coming season. And then we’ll have to see how he develops.”
He continued: “We want to play in the Champions League. And that’s naturally an argument for such a young player, to then deliver what he’s shown in a second season and potentially develop further – also at an international level.
“So we have many good arguments. And the best argument is a long-term contract. Therefore, I’m completely relaxed about the whole matter.”
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Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package
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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.
Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.
For a medicine so commonly found in bathroom cabinets and high street pharmacies, codeine has a surprisingly complicated story. It sits at the intersection of pain relief, genetics, public health and regulation. As the UK continues to tighten rules around opioid use, codeine offers a useful case study in how a drug can be both helpful and potentially harmful, depending on who takes it and how it is used.
Codeine is an opioid used to treat mild to moderate pain. In some formulations, it is also used to suppress coughing. Over-the-counter products typically combine it with paracetamol, as in co-codamol, or ibuprofen, while stronger doses are available only on prescription.
Codeine itself is a weak opioid. Its analgesic effect is about one tenth that of morphine. Once swallowed, it is metabolised by enzymes in the liver, with some of it converted into morphine. That morphine then produces pain relief by acting on opioid receptors in the brain. For most people, the body makes enough morphine to ease symptoms. For others, the same dose can be ineffective or unexpectedly strong.
One of the most striking features of codeine is how differently people process it. The enzyme mainly responsible for converting codeine into morphine, CYP2D6, varies significantly between people. Most metabolise codeine at an expected rate, but some carry genetic variants that alter the process.
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A small proportion of the population are ultra-rapid metabolisers, thought to make up around 1% to 2% of people. They convert codeine into morphine much faster than average. This trait is more common among people of North African and Middle Eastern backgrounds, for whom even standard doses can produce unexpectedly high morphine levels, increasing the risk of severe drowsiness, breathing difficulties and other serious side effects.
Around 2% to 11% of people are intermediate metabolisers. Their CYP2D6 enzyme works more slowly or less effectively, so codeine may provide only limited benefit.
At the other end of the spectrum are poor metabolisers, estimated to make up 5% to 10% of the population. They convert very little codeine into morphine, so the drug may offer little or no pain relief. Poor metabolism is more common in people of white European descent. In these cases, it may make more sense to prescribe a different painkiller rather than rely on a drug the body cannot use efficiently. This wide variation makes codeine far less predictable than many people assume.
That unpredictability matters because low-dose codeine does not always offer much in return. Research suggests that many over-the-counter codeine products provide little proven benefit for pain relief, particularly at doses below 10mg, while still carrying the risk of side effects. A review found that low-dose codeine combinations gave only modest relief for short-term pain, such as dental pain, episiotomy pain or pain after minor surgery, and many of the underlying trials were small.
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Low dose codeine may not be the most effective painkiller for some. Kmpzzz/Shutterstock
By contrast, combinations such as ibuprofen 400mg with higher-dose codeine, between 25mg and 60mg, appear to provide more reliable relief. Even so, studies suggest that simple combinations such as paracetamol plus ibuprofen can match or outperform low-dose codeine products without the risks associated with opioids.
Common side effects include constipation, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness. At higher doses, codeine can slow breathing and impair coordination. It can also interact with other medicines that cause sedation, including some antiepileptic drugs. Certain antidepressants can block the enzyme that converts codeine into morphine, making it less effective.
Like other opioids, codeine can also become less effective with repeated use. This process, known as tolerance, happens when the brain’s opioid receptors adapt to the drug. People may then need higher doses to achieve the same effect. Even when taken as directed, tolerance can develop within days, and as doses rise, so does the risk of physical dependence.
Stopping suddenly after regular use can trigger withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, sweating, anxiety and poor sleep. This is why health professionals advise using codeine for the shortest possible time and tapering the dose if it has been taken for longer periods.
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Concerns about misuse, addiction and accidental harm have prompted tighter regulation in the UK. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has introduced clearer warnings on packaging about addiction risk and limited over-the-counter pack sizes to a maximum of 32 tablets or capsules. Non-prescription codeine-containing products are now intended for use for no more than three days. Stronger codeine tablets, including 30mg formulations, have long been prescription-only.
Some products have faced even stricter controls. Codeine linctus, once widely used as a cough suppressant, was reclassified as prescription-only in 2023 because of growing concerns about misuse and diversion. It has been used in “purple drank”, a recreational mixture of codeine cough syrup with soft drinks and sometimes alcohol. Its opioid effects can lead to dependence, breathing difficulties and overdose, especially when combined with other sedatives.
Codeine remains a useful option for short-term pain when other medicines are unsuitable or insufficient. But its effectiveness, safety and potential for dependence vary far more than many people realise.
In a landscape where medicines are often judged by how familiar they feel, codeine is a reminder that common does not always mean simple. Used carefully, it can help. Used carelessly, it can cause problems that last long after the pain itself has passed.
Think again. These free, under-the-radar locations tell a different story.
It’s free to visit the Victorian canal system in the Castlefield area of Manchester (Image: Getty)
Quiet, scenic and often overlooked, they’re all completely free to visit – and some even include free parking.
1. Aberdulais, Wales
Tucked away in a wooded gorge, Aberdulais Tin Works and Waterfall feels like a secret slice of wild Wales. The powerful waterfall crashes beside a historic water wheel, once vital to industry. It’s rarely crowded, especially midweek, and there’s the added bonus of free parking nearby.
2. Castlefield Viaduct, Manchester
A surprising escape above the city streets, like Manchester’s own high line, Castlefield Viaduct is still relatively unknown compared to New York’s skyline gardens. This elevated green space blends urban views with wild planting, making it a peaceful retreat many visitors overlook.
Manchester’s industrial past against the modern city at Castlefield Viaduct. (Image: Getty)
3. Chirk Castle Estate, Wales
While the castle draws crowds, the wider grounds of Chirk Castle remain a hidden gem. Wander through ancient woodland, spot rare bats and follow quiet stretches of Offa’s Dyke – all without paying entry. Even better, parking here is free.
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4. Divis and the Black Mountain, Northern Ireland
Often missed by tourists heading elsewhere, Divis and the Black Mountain offers some of the best views over Belfast. Wide open spaces and peaceful trails mean you can walk for miles without the crowds – plus there’s free parking.
5. Downs Banks, Staffordshire
This “little wilderness” at Downs Banks is one of the Trust’s best-kept secrets. Expect rolling heath, woodland and far-reaching views, with far fewer visitors than better-known beauty spots. Free parking is available, though limited.
6. Kinver Edge, Staffordshire
Despite its dramatic scenery, Kinver Edge often flies under the radar. Walk along sandstone ridges, discover historic rock houses and enjoy sweeping views – all without paying a penny. Free lay-by parking makes it even easier to visit.
From secret waterfalls to quiet estates, these little-known National Trust places are free to explore (Image: Getty)
7. Morden Hall Park, London
Even in London, hidden gems exist. Morden Hall Park is a peaceful riverside escape that many visitors miss in favour of bigger parks. With wetlands, gardens and quiet walking routes, it feels worlds away from the city – and offers limited free parking.
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8. Penrose Estate, Cornwall
While Cornwall’s beaches steal the spotlight, Penrose Estate remains a quieter alternative. Encircling Loe Pool, it offers miles of scenic trails through woodland and farmland, plus a free public car park nearby.
9. Pin Mill, Suffolk
A tranquil riverside spot, Pin Mill is often overlooked by those heading to busier coastal towns. With its literary links and peaceful walks, it’s a true hidden gem – and easy to explore with nearby parking.
Recommended reading:
10. Rayleigh Mount, Essex
Right in the centre of town, Rayleigh Mount is a surprising secret. Once home to a medieval castle, it’s now a quiet green space filled with wildlife and views.
Most people pass by without realising its history – or that it’s completely free.
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If you’re looking to dodge crowds and save money, these lesser-known National Trust spots prove the best days out are often the ones nobody else knows about.
Hamerton Zoo is not only home to wonderful animals but also play areas and a miniature train ride
A day trip to the zoo is enough to keep any child happy. But if you pair it with a miniature train ride and hours spent running around an exciting playground, you might be able to enjoy the perfect day with your whole family.
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Hamerton Zoo could be an ideal place to go for the day, especially if you and your family love animals. The zoo is home to a range of wild animals such as big cats like the Bengal tiger and cheetahs as well as bears, otters and zebras.
You can also spot some domestic animals around the zoo from alpacas and camels to donkeys and sheep. For those who like more exotic animals, there is a whole section for lizards, snakes, and even Australian lungfish.
If you want to get up close to some of the animals rather than watching them from afar, you could book one of the animal encounter experiences. You can choose from a few different animals to meet like the lemurs and meerkats and get some extras including a personalised certificate and cuddly toy to remember the day by.
During the animal encounter experiences, you will be able to feed the animals and go inside their enclosures to help groom them. For experiences involving tigers, bears and cheetahs, you will be able to feed them from behind their fenced-in enclosure.
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Hamerton Zoo not only has plenty of animals to see but lots of other activities to get involved in. The tree tops play area features a range of things for children to explore from a zip rope, swings, and slides to climbing cubes with plenty of outdoor seating for parents to watch from.
For younger children, there is a separate play zone with smaller swings, a miniature slide, and a climbing frame that is ideal for those under five years old. On weekends and throughout the school holidays, the K-T Express Railroad Train runs throughout the day.
The miniature train ride will take children around the picnic area and through the dinosaur exhibit. It is described as being a “fun and relaxing way to see part of the park”.
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While you are free to bring your own food to the zoo, you might want to treat yourself to something from the onsite coffee shop. The coffee shop offers a range of hot and cold drinks as well as light snacks and food to help fuel you for the day.
Tickets for the zoo cost £19.99 for adults and £15.99 for children between the ages of three and 15. Children under three can get into the zoo for free.
Hamerton Zoo can be found along Hamerton Road and is around a 42-minute drive away from Cambridge via the A14. There is a free car park onsite for visitors to use.
If you see this on a wine list, order it (Picture: Getty Images)
If you can say the name of a wine without stuttering, don’t order it.
Sure, we can all pronounce Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre, Chablis, Côtes du Rhône and Malbec, but be warned, the ones that roll off the tongue come with the addition of a ‘pronunciation tax’.
And because it’s even easier to say ‘second wine down, please’, those come with an ‘idiot tax’ slapped on, that 80% of diners don’t know they’re paying.
If you want to drink like an insider, there’s one hack to follow, the experts say, that works every time and will ensure you’re sipping the highest quality wine for the least amount of money.
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The trick is simply to order the drink you can’t pronounce.
If you’re picking a popular wine, you’re likely paying a little more (Picture: Getty Images)
Why it’s a good idea to go for a wine you can’t pronounce
Not many people know this, but there are certain wines on the menu that the sommelier or restaurant owner personally likes.
They squirrel them away, in nooks around the wine list. These are the bottles the staff would actually drink themselves.
These will be wines made from grapes with names that are extremely tricky to pronounce, like Agiorgitiko, Nerello Mascalese or Xinomavro.
See? They’re hard to get your mouth around.
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And the best bit? The margins on the unpronounceable wines are significantly lower and provide incredible value for money. They aggressively mark them down in price to keep the stock moving.
You could say, they’re passion project wines, made from more unusual grapes, which sommeliers or restaurant owners put on their list because they make them tick. Many are under-the-radar wines, which they’ve found on a buying trip or a tasting that they simply had to put on the list, despite being a far harder sell.
Be sure to speak to the sommelier at a swanky restaurant (Picture: Getty Images)
Maxim Kassir, Head of Wine at The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London, confirms that the less familiar wines on the list are the better value choice.
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He tells Metro: ‘Naturally, the demand for famous names is higher. Most guests prefer to stay on the beaten path. And as demand increases, so does the price – simple economics.
‘Wines off the beaten path can offer great value for money. They are often the underdogs, but that’s exactly where the opportunity is.
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‘If guests can describe their preferences and are open to trying something different, sommeliers will always have a few cards up their sleeve.’
He continues: ‘Personally, I look for wines made from indigenous grape varieties rather than international ones. Who needs another Chardonnay from Abruzzo? I’d rather go for Pecorino.’
Skip the prosecco and pick an underdog drink (Picture: Getty Images)
The wines to avoid
The wines that keep the restaurant’s lights on are the likes of Sauvignon Blanc, Prosecco, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, you get the picture.
For example, at the Ivy Brasserie, a bottle of Touriga Nacional from Portugal is £47.85 a bottle, while the Argentinian Malbec starts at £57. Both bottles retail for similar prices in stores.
That’s because the popular wines work on a standard gross profit margin of 75% GP, minimum. Often 85% at swanky London restaurants. This means that a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, that cost the restaurant £8 a bottle, can be found on a wine list for £55.
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Equally, to encourage people to taste Mencia from Spain or Austrian Zweigelt, restaurants often drop their margins to 50-60%. So, you may end up paying £30 for a bottle that costs the restaurant £15, which doubles the quality in your glass for basically half the price.
Meanwhile, the second ‘cheapest’ on the list is a trap, as it’s often the most profitable wine for the restaurant. It’s no secret that these are prime fodder for people who don’t want to opt for the house wine for fear of appearing tightfisted.
What to do if you can’t afford the wine you can’t pronounce?
Go for another wine you can’t pronounce, that’s cheaper.
There’s always one that’s cheaper.
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And if you don’t want to wade through pages of a wine list, call over the sommelier or waiter and point to the sort of price you’re able to pay and say: ‘Do you have anything really unusual for that price? I like a Pinot Noir in style.’
With that in mind, if you want to dodge the ‘pronunciation tax’ this year, look for these grapes, which are the ones being championed by UK sommeliers and restaurant owners.
And just remember, if you have to point at the wine list because you’re afraid of mangling the name, you’ve made the right choice.
Do you take suggestions from a sommelier at restaurants?
I ususally just order the same thing
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I’m too nervous to speak to them
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Unique wines to look out for on restaurant menus
Assrytiko (ass-ear-tea-koh)
If you like Chablis (but not the strain on your wallet) and other uber-dry, clean and zesty whites, this is for you. It’s grown in mainland Greece and Santorini, and has a touch of salinity thanks to the volcanic soil.
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Grüner Veltliner(groo-na-velt-leena)
For anyone who’s developed Sauvignon Blanc-fatigue and wants to try something similar, but different. Often called Gru-Vee, this is Austria’s flagship white, and gives a naughty lick of white pepper on the finish.
Godello(go-day-yo)
Albariño’s neighbour in northern Spain, but nowhere near as well-known. It’s the sommelier’s secret weapon, zesty in its youth and leaning more towards a richer White Burgundy with a bit of age, and a fraction of the price tag.
Xinomavro(Zeen-oh-mav-roh)
Greece’s signature red grape produces wines not dissimilar in style to Barolo, minus the money drain. It translates as ‘sour and black’, and it’s grown extensively in Macedonia.
Touriga Nacional (tour-eeger-nass-eeon-al)
Portugal’s flagship red grape and the backbone grape of Port. In its non-Port form, the wines are slightly Cabernet-like, with a bergamot note, like it’s been dunked with an Earl Grey teabag. I mean that in a good way.
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Frappato(Fra-pat-oh)
Like a bit of Beaujolais? Give Frappato from Sicily a chance. Similar softness, fruitiness and lack of mouth-drying tannins. It’s chillable too, so be sure to show it the fridge for 20 minutes before quaffing.
And Maxim also has a few thoughts on wine to keep an eye out for on the menu.
He adds: ‘People should make a beeline for Slovenian Rebula (complex, savoury, mineral-driven), Feteasca Alba from Moldova (light and fresh with ripe stone fruit flavours), and Saperavi from Georgia (structured, full-bodied wines with lots of black fruit).’
It’s that time of the year. One of the standout days on the London calendar – the London Marathon – is almost upon us.
With more than 59,000 runners expected at the start line in Greenwich on Sunday — after a record-breaking 1.13 million ballot entrants — the marathon’s 2026 edition is set to be the most popular in the world.
So, preparation has never been more important. Knowing exactly where you need to be (and when), where to pick up your race number, and where to find fuel stations and toilet stops can make all the difference on the day.
As a fellow runner this year, Standard reporter Megan Howe has put together the ultimate guide to the TCS London Marathon 2026 so you can focus on what really matters: getting around the course and having the best day possible.
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And for the tens of thousands of people cheering runners on, we’ve provided a handy guide on how to navigate the busiest viewing areas.
The TCS London Marathon 2026 is set to take place this Sunday, April 26
PA Archive
Where do I collect my number before race day?
Before the big day, you’ll need to collect your event pack from the London Marathon Running Show – which has been taking place at the ExCel Centre this week, and remains open until 5.30pm today (Saturday, April 25).
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Inside, you’ll find everything you need for race day, including your bib number (complete with timing chip) and some safety pins to attach to your running gear on the day.
The nearest station is Custom House, which is served by the Elizabeth line and the DLR.
One key thing to remember: there is no collection on Sunday. Make sure you’ve picked up your pack in advance, as you don’t want your marathon to end before it’s even begun.
To collect your pack, you’ll need your QR code (sent in your official TCS London Marathon email last month, along with your wave and start time) and a valid form of ID.
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And if you’re travelling in from outside London, it’s best to pack light; lugging a suitcase through busy crowds is not ideal race-day prep.
What else can I do at the Running Show?
There’s plenty to keep runners entertained at the ExCel Centre, and most people tend to spend around one to three hours there. With over 250 exhibitors, including major brands like New Balance, Shokz, and Vaseline, you won’t be short of things to browse.
It’s also a great opportunity to pick up official TCS London Marathon 2026 merchandise. Whether you need anything or just want to make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, that’s entirely up to you. Personally, I’ll be taking all the race-day motivation I can get.
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Beyond the shopping, there are expert talks from elite athletes, vendors offering race-day fuel, and the Charity Village, where runners supporting a specific cause can collect goodies and learn more about cheer points along the course.
Don’t miss out on a chance to visit the Runners Wall (or the Wall of Names), which includes the names of every single participant in this year’s event. Runners enjoy searching for their own name and taking pictures, but it does involve quite a bit of slow scanning.
What time should I head to Greenwich for the start?
Race day is a major operation for everyone involved. Whether you’re running, volunteering, or spectating, the golden rule is simple: plan ahead. Know exactly where you’re going and what time you need to be there, before the excitement and the nerves kick in.
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Runners will already know their wave and expected start time, as well as their estimated arrival time at the start area. Stick to this guidance if you can — it’s there for a reason, and keeps everything moving smoothly.
Participants run past the Cutty Sark in Greenwich during the TCS London Marathon
PA Wire
All runners can travel for free on the London Underground, Overground, DLR and buses on race day, just show TfL staff your running bib to get through the barriers.
There are three start areas across Greenwich and Blackheath, assigned by colour. Blue Start is in Blackheath, while Green Start (Greenwich Park) and Red Start (Greenwich Park, Charlton Way) are both based nearby.
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For those taking part, here’s how the morning unfolds (staggered start times apply):
08:50: Elite Wheelchair races
09:05: Elite Women’s race
09:35: Elite Men’s race and Mass Start begins
09:35 – 11:30: Mass Start waves continue
19:30: Official finish line on The Mall closes (it then moves to St James’s Park until midnight)
Where is the bag drop area at the start?
The bag drop is an important part of race day for runners, making sure any personal belongings you don’t want to carry are waiting for you on The Mall when you finish.
But beware, it gets extremely busy. Expect queues, and— as with everything on race day— arrive in good time.
On race morning, head to the baggage lorry that matches your bib number in your designated assembly area (Blue, Red, or Green). Team Green participants follow a slightly different process, dropping bags at St James’s Park on Saturday instead.
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You must use the official clear plastic kit bag provided when you collect your bib, as no other bags will be accepted on the transport lorries.
Before you hand it over, make sure to check your pockets; you really don’t want to be running 26.2 miles with house keys jangling in your belt.
After you cross the finish line, follow the signs back to your numbered lorry to collect your bag.
There’s also a charity collection point at the start where runners can donate any unwanted layers. It’s well worth using, especially as it can feel quite chilly before the race gets underway.
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Where are the best places to watch the runners?
The London Marathon is known for being one of the best-supported in the world – runners can expect to be cheered on at virtually every point on the 26.2-mile course.
So, if you’re heading out to watch the spectacle, the choice of viewing points is enormous.
If you want to watch at one of the most popular spots – expect to have to navigate large crowds and long queues for public transport.
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London Marathon organisers have put together a guide for those seeking to get to one of most spectacular – and busiest – spots:
Cutty Sark DLR station will be extremely busy with queues up to 90 minutes at peak times. Consider walking from Deptford, Greenwich, Island Gardens or Maze Hill.
Canada Water station will be extremely busy. Use London Overground to Rotherhithe or Surrey Quays instead.
Runners crossing Tower Bridge during the London Marathon (PA)
PA Archive
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Bermondsey station will be extremely busy .Consider using London Bridge station to access Jamaica Road and the surrounding area.
Arrive early for viewing spots. London Bridge is a better alternative to Tower Hill or Tower Gateway.
Miles 18 and 19 – Canary Wharf and Heron Quays
Canary Wharf Underground station, and the surrounding area, will be extremely busy. For Canary Wharf, use the Elizabeth line or Canary Wharf DLR. For Miles 15, 17 and 18, use Crossharbour or South Quay.
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Limehouse station will be extremely busy with queues up to 90 minutes. Expect queues of up to 90 minutes at peak times. Consider walking to and from Shadwell station via Cable Street, Westferry station or Poplar station.
Tower Hill will be extremely busy, consider using Cannon Street or Mansion House. For Lower/Upper Thames Street, use Bank, St Paul’s or Southwark.
Westminster station and St James’s Park will be extremely busy. Westminster station will be exit only from 7pm to 7pm. It will be possible to arrive via this station but not to leave from it. Consider using Charing Cross, Piccadilly Circus, Victoria and Waterloo.
Where can runners meet people after the race?
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The Meet and Greet Area is located at Horse Guards Parade, where large A–Z letter boards help runners and supporters find each other amid the post-race crowds.
It’s worth noting that phone signal around the course can be unreliable, especially in Canary Wharf, so it’s a good idea to agree on a meeting point beforehand.
What is the support like on the course?
The London Marathon is one of the best-supported races in the world, with water available at almost every mile. In other words, you might be able to free up a bit of space in your running belt or vest and grab what you need along the way.
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Buxton Natural Mineral Water is available every three miles up to Mile 12, then every two miles through to Mile 24.
Lucozade Sport drinks are available at Miles 7, 15, 21 and 23, with Lucozade Sport gels at Miles 13 and 19.
Runners taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2025
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Can I book a last-minute hotel?
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There’s still time to book a last-minute hotel if your plans have changed, your reservation has fallen through, or if you just haven’t got round to it.
One recommended option is TRIBE London Canary Wharf, which currently has availability from Friday, April 24 to Monday, April 27. That said, rooms are in high demand, so it’s worth booking sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.
A double bedroom inside TRIBE Canary Wharf
TRIBE
The hotel offers both continental and full English breakfast options, a 24-hour snack bar, and a Californian-style restaurant, Feels Like June, which is ideal if you’re carb-loading beforehand or if you’re looking for a well-earned post-marathon meal and celebratory cocktail.
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Location-wise, it’s hard to beat. The hotel overlooks part of the marathon route itself, making it a great choice if you’re travelling with supporters who would rather stay in one spot than battle the Tube on race day.
It’s also just a short DLR journey to Greenwich, keeping race morning logistics relatively straightforward.
Feels Like June restaurant at TRIBE Canary Wharf
TRIBE
Inside, the hotel has a relaxed, bright and airy feel, with staff on hand to help with any last-minute questions, which is exactly what you want on the build-up to marathon day.
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Guests can also get day passes for Third Space gym, located above the hotel, which is perfect for anyone looking to sneak in a strength-session or get a few kilometres in on the running machine to warm up.
The rooms themselves are cosy, with spongey mattresses and blackout blinds, perfect for a solid night’s sleep.
And finally, a small but added bonus, the hotel is offering free protein balls for runners on the day.
What should I do post-race?
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You might be thinking, “My goal is to just get round, I haven’t even thought about what happens after”, but it might be time to start.
Finishing the London Marathon is an incredible achievement, but in the following days, it is natural to feel a little lost, with no early alarms to get up for or long runs to work towards.
Perhaps you might want to sign up for another race (it’s all about chasing that runner’s high) or even consider booking a much-needed sports massage.
Cryotherapy is a popular way to speed up recovery after a marathon. The extreme cold helps reduce muscle inflammation and swelling, easing Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and helps to get you back on your feet that little bit quicker.
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Sessions are usually quite short, typically between three to five minutes, using dry air, which is ideal if, like me, you’re not keen on plunging into an ice bath.
A cryoair chamber at Third Space Canary Wharf
Supplied
London-based luxury health club, Third Space, offers Cryotherapy sessions, as well as Red Light Therapy and Vibro-acoustic therapy, designed to promote relaxation through sound and vibrations.
Anyone who’s trained for a marathon will know it’s as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one, so getting yourself in the right headspace and feeling ready to go on race day can make all the difference.
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A vibro-acoustic session might also be just the thing to help you properly unwind and take the edge off after months of training.
Sitting in a heated chair with a blindfold on, listening to the sound of waves while focusing on vibrations through the body, it’s an effective way of releasing tensions.
Missed out on entry this year? How to sign up for 2027
If you missed out on a ballot place for the 2026 TCS London Marathon, you’re not alone. The event is more popular now than it has ever been.
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A staggering 1,133,813 people threw their hats into the ring for the 2026 ballot, a 36 per cent increase on the previous record of 840,318 applicants for the 2025 race.
Entry to the TCS London Marathon 2027 ballot has already opened.
It’s well worth considering a charity place too. Start thinking about causes you’d be proud to run for, and keep your eyes peeled for when their entries open.
Adam Kindon, 24, of Sunnyview Terrace, Leeds, pleaded guilty to dangerous riding of a motorbike and cannabis riding on the A1(M) and A64 near Tadcaster and was found guilty of wilfully interrupting court proceedings for shouting insults in court while being sentenced. He was jailed for 12 months, banned from driving for 66 months and ordered to take an extended driving test before driving alone again.
Daniel Wilson, 33, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to stealing beer, crisps and a pretzel roll worth £24.15 from Sainsbury’s in Piccadilly, York, and assaulting a police officer. He was given a nine-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months on condition he does six months’ alcohol treatment and 20 days’ rehabilitative activities. He must pay £100 compensation to the police officer and £24.15 compensation to Sainsbury’s.
Robbie Maynard, 18, of Malton Road, Rillington, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the A64 at Rillington. He was given a 12-month community order with 80 hours’ unpaid work. He was banned from driving for 12 months and ordered to take an extended driving test before driving unsupervised again. He must pay £85 prosecution costs.
Those near Bury Old Road in Ainsworth have been warned they may experience low water pressure or no supply while engineers investigate a reported issue in the area.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman might do something this weekend he’s never done in his storied NFL career: draft a player who will take a pay cut by entering the league.
It won’t be the last time, either.
The minimum salary for an NFL draft pick in 2026 is slotted at $915,120. But with college revenue sharing going into effect before the 2025 season — top programs are now spending up to $20.5 million on student-athletes, with the majority earmarked for the most talented football players — there are undoubtably players who will be drafted Saturday who topped the million-dollar mark last season and will earn less in the pros.
At least in Year 1.
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AP AUDIO: NFL draft in NIL era includes players taking a pay cut to go from college to the pros
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With new rules on collegiate earnings, some athletes at the NFL draft will be earning less money as professionals. The AP’s Jennifer King reports.
“So the character of those players, their passion and love of the game come to the forefront even more,” Roseman said.
Most of the players making more than $1 million in college football are quarterbacks. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Alabama’s Ty Simpson were first-round draft picks, with Mendoza going No. 1 to the Las Vegas Raiders and Simpson surprisingly landing with the Los Angeles Rams at No. 13.
Mendoza’s NFL rookie deal is slotted to top $57 million, including nearly $10.5 million in 2026. Simpson’s contract will be roughly half that — $25.4 million total, including $4.6 million in the first year.
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LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and Miami’s Carson Beck are projected to be the next quarterbacks selected, with both potentially coming off the board in the second or third round Friday night — and both likely earning less as NFL rookies than they made as established college starters.
Same goes for fellow QBs Drew Allar (Penn State), Taylen Green (Arkansas), Cole Payton (North Dakota State), Sawyer Robertson (Baylor), Cade Klubnik (Clemson), Joey Aguilar (Tennessee) and others.
Although revenue share payments are typically undisclosed, name, image and likeness valuations are much more public. Nearly half of the top 50 NIL valuations in 2025 belonged to QBs, according to On3, with two dozen of those over $1.5 million.
“They come in almost like pros now,” Raiders general manager John Spytek said. “I actually think it’s made it easier because you know what the guys are going to do when they have money.
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“You know the ones that love the game and are about the right things, and just because they’ve got more money than we all had when we were in college, they still prepare the right way, they play the right way, they love the game, they’re there for their teammates. I think it’s kind of been a little bit illuminating to the character of who they are.”
The financial component has less of an impact on NFL decision-makers as the age issue.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said this is the third consecutive year in which 18% of the team’s draft board is comprised of players at least 24 years old. That number used to be 4%, he added.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused the initial age surge. But soaring NIL payments and rev share could be the deciding force for years to come.
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“That’s something that we don’t really understand fully and what that means,” DeCosta said. “I don’t think it’s a good thing, certainly. But historically we’ve tried to draft younger players when we can. That’s been something that we feel strongly (about), but now we’ve got 18% of the draft board that’s over 24 years old. So that’s going to change the way that maybe we target players.”
And some of them will be millionaires before they even sign an NFL contract.
“That’s interesting. I don’t know that it’s rooted in financial thoughts as much as you talk about age quite a bit and whether or not tread on the tires is something of note,” Jacksonville Jaguars general manager James Gladstone said. “I think most of the times the guys have a little bit more financial awareness, and that can be a really helpful tool.
“The fact that they’re not just being dumped a good chunk of cash for the first time when they enter the NFL. They now have some version of experience navigating that, and that can be a really helpful piece for sure.”
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