The two-car crash happened on the A68 West Auckland Road in Darlington just after 6am on Wednesday (April 29).

One of the cars hit a lamppost and ended up wedged in a field.

Photos show the front bumper of the blue car badly smashed up with police tape across a gap in a fence and over the fallen light column.

A man in the second car is not believed to have been injured.

A spokesperson for North East Ambulance Service said: “We were called to a road traffic incident on A68 West Auckland Road, Darlington, at 6.11am on April 29.

(Image: Northern Echo)

“We dispatched a double crewed ambulance and one patient was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital.”

A spokesperson for Durham Police added: “We were called to reports of a two-car collision on the A68 near Darlington shortly before 6am this morning (Wednesday, April 29).

“One of the cars collided with a lamppost.”

“One male driver was taken to hospital for treatment. The other male driver is believed to have been uninjured.”

“The road was closed for a short time while emergency services attended the scene but has since reopened.”

Chelsea captain Millie Bright has retired from football with immediate effect.

The 32-year-old made 294 appearances for the Blues after joining from Doncaster Belles in 2015 and also won 88 caps for England.

The defender won eight Women’s Super League titles with the Blues – including six in a row between 2020 and 2025 – as well as six FA Cups and four League Cups.

But the former England defender has not featured for the Blues since February because of an ankle injury and has decided now is the time to end her career.

‘Representing Chelsea over the last 12 years has been everything to me, but I’m now ready to say goodbye to playing football,” said Bright.

“I’ve given all I can, and I never wanted to fight for any other badge.

‘It is now time, and I’m ready to go into a new era. I’m always going to be Chelsea, but just in a different way.”

Nigel Farage revealed that a petrol bomb had been posted through his letterbox last year as he spoke about the ‘huge dangers’ and said billionaire Christopher Harborne had gifted him money to pay for his security

Nigel Farage has revealed his home was firebombed as he said there are “huge dangers” in his job.

The Reform UK leader said the petrol bomb was posted through his letterbox last year, and no suspects have been identified. Mr Farage said Thailand-based billionaire Christopher Harborne has gifted him money – claimed to be around £5million – to pay for his security.

In an interview with The Telegraph he said he was not home when the attack happened early last year. He said: “It was an outright arson attempt.

“I wasn’t at home at the time, but when I came back and opened the door I found the damage.” He said he believes the perpetrators were disturbed in the act.

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Mr Farage – who had milkshakes and a rock thrown at him during the General Election campaign in 2024 – said he has also previously had to write off a car after protestors attacked it.

And he added: “There is also the online threat, with people encouraging the use of violence against me, which we have reported to the police several times with no response that I can discern whatsoever and the pretty much point-blank refusal of the British state to help me.”

The Reform leader told the newspaper that he was speaking publicly about it because material about his private finances had been compromised. He said Mr Harborne agreed to underwrite his security costs in early 2024, before he made the decision to stand as an MP.

The gift, which is not taxed, was not declared as it did not count as a political donation, The Telegraph states. He said: “Sometimes things happen when there are cameras there, but there are plenty of times when things don’t make the news, like pints of beer being thrown over me or the attack on my home.”

He said the money from Mr Harbone was given to him so he would be safe and secure for the rest of his life. He claimed to have tried and failed to get his security funded by the Home Office.

The billionaire was with Mr Farage when he had milkshake thrown at him while campaigning in Newcastle in 2019.

Reviews of the new 10-part horror comedy series starring Matthew Rhys are full of praise

Fans of Stephen King in particular have been told this new series is a must watch.

The first couple of episodes of Widow’s Bay are streaming now and early reviews urge audiences not to miss out. In fact, some have claimed that it is the best new show of the year so far.

However, while critics have been able to make their judgement on the entire 10-part series, fans will face a wait. Only two episodes have landed on Apple TV+ so far.

Following instalments will be released on a weekly basis, each Wednesday. As a result, the finale is expected to be available sometime in June.

Star of Netflix series The Beast in Me and The Americans Matthew Rhys leads the cast as Mayor Tom Loftis. As expected, it is set in Widow’s Bay, a quaint island town 40 miles off the coast of New England where something lurks beneath the surface.

The Mayor is desperate to revive his struggling community. Not only is there no Wi-Fi, spotty cellular reception and very little to actually do, he must also contend with superstitious locals who believe their island is cursed.

They don’t respect him or his position but he is determined to build a better future for his teenage son and turn the island into a tourist destination. Even in the face of some success, unfortunately, it seems the locals were right. After decades of calm, the old stories that seemed too ludicrous to be true start happening again.

Reviews have already begun to be published online and the vast majority are extremely positive. In fact, at the time of writing, Widow’s Bay has managed to record a perfect 100% rating on website Rotten Tomatoes against 23 reviews.

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Critics have so far praised the show’s blending of the comedy and horror genres, highlighting that the series is so far a thrill for fans of both genres. As one person pointed out: “Just about every horror trope is accounted for, and they are masterfully woven together through the eyes of several of Widow’s Bay’s most quirky residents.”

Another declared: “Apple TV’s delightfully oddball horror-comedy may have a few flaws, but it’s like almost nothing else on TV at the moment.”

One reviewer penned: “A brilliant horror comedy packed with atmosphere – it’s Jaws meets The Shining meets Veep! Matthew Rhys stars in yet another great show backed up by a very strong cast. Dippold & Murai have created something special.”

Meanwhile, one verdict claimed: “While still feeling original, it riffs on supernatural legends and ghost stories that come naturally to old seafaring towns, with references to classic sea horror like The Fog, and Jaws. Amid the supernatural tension and jeopardy, it’s also a lot of fun.”

One seemed to agree as they said: “Widow’s Bay starts as a horror-comedy that is engaging, scary and entertaining from all angles. The combination of clever character development, subtle comedy and horror is a beautiful concoction that makes for must-watch TV.”

Another added: “Eerie and uniquely haunting, the outstanding visuals, coupled with the exceptional performances, ensure that the series beams like a lighthouse, waiting to welcome lost souls back home.”

While others confidently stated that Widow’s Bay should be considered a highlight of the year: “The result is a series that’s as funny as it is unsettling, with moments so genuinely scary you can’t help but laugh. Without a doubt, creator Katie Lippold has delivered one of the best new shows of 2026.”

In a similar vein, another critic put forward: “A charmingly ghoulish saga about a locale beset by the sins of the past. It’s also, to date, the best new show of the year.”

Widow’s Bay is streaming on Apple TV+.

Jack Grealish says his recovery from the operation he had on his season-ending foot injury is going extremely well and that his surgeon is delighted with the progress.

The 30-year-old England midfielder, who is on loan at Everton, had the operation on a stress fracture 10 weeks ago.

He suffered the injury during a 1-0 win against his former club Aston Villa in January.

“I feel really good in myself now. I had a 10-week Zoom call with the surgeon, who said it couldn’t be looking any better at this stage,” he told BBC Sport.

“So for me, it’s happy days and so good to hear news like that.”

Grealish has made 22 appearances in all competitions for Everton this season, scoring twice and providing six assists.

“As a footballer it’s always difficult being injured,” he said.

“I came to the Merseyside derby game and it got me a bit emotional, because its something I miss doing so much.”

He has a year left on his Manchester City contract, and BBC Sport previously reported that Everton would be interested in signing him on a permanent basis if they can negotiate a lower price than City’s rough valuation of £50m.

“I can’t thank [Everton] enough for the way they’ve been with me since I’ve been injured – they’ve been brilliant. From the staff, to the players, to the manager,” he added.

TV legend Derek Thompson is returning to Casualty.

The actor, who is 78, left his role as Charlie Fairhead in 2024. He played the role for 38 years, making him the longest serving cast member after joining the show when it first began in 1986.

Charlie departed Holby City ED after making the decision to retire. Before this though, Charlie’s life was put in danger after being stabbed by a patient.

Finally feeling the weight of his lengthy career, Charlie realised he needed to give himself a break and handed in his notice.

Joined by friend Josh (Ian Bleasdale), who worked as a paramedic back in the day, Charlie then got into a brand new yellow beetle and prepared to leave for Cyprus, ready to find his son Louie.

Charlie and Josh drove off ready for their new adventure together, leaving their friends behind as they got back to work, ready to do the most important thing Charlie dedicated so much of his life to.

Two years on from his departure, Charlie is set to head back to Holby ED.

Whether he’s returning as a nurse, patient, or simply to visit his friends is yet to be revealed, but it’s said that he’s already been filming on set in Wales.

Metro understands that while Derek is reprising his role, it is only for a short storyline.

‘Fans will be delighted to see Charlie. The character was never killed off and the door was left open for a return’, a source told The Sun.

‘Viewers will have to wait to see how Charlie’s storyline pans out. But it is an appearance rather than a permanent return to the cast.’

Last Saturday, the medical drama’s latest boxset Lethal Legacy kicked off.

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Former Emmerdale star Mark Womack has joined the show, playing the role of domineering Colonel Jack Bard, whose powerful hold over his subordinates, and ties to Flynn Byron (Olly Rix), threaten to shake the bedrock of the ED.

When history begins to repeat itself, Flynn faces a past he believed was long behind him, while Stevie Nash (Elinor Lawless) and Matty Linklater (Aaron Julius) turn to an unexpected source of comfort. Also, a decision made by Matty pushes Dylan Keogh (William Beck) away from the son he’s only just started to get to know.

Meanwhile, Jodie Whyte (Anna Chell) uncovers a disturbing truth buried deep within a local estate and risks everything to expose it.

Trouble within the military casts a shadow, while strained relationships come to the fore as the team struggles to keep the ED afloat. With old wounds reopening, the team need to pull together – or watch everything unravel.

Lethal Legacy will be an action-filled exploration of the impact the past can have and how it can be challenged, reshaped – and ultimately broken.

Great Yarmouth’s Britannia Pier has been crowned the UK’s best seaside pier, winning the National Piers Society’s Pier of the Year 2026 award following a £2.2 million renovation. The historic Victorian pier boasts rides, amusement arcades, fish and chips, and a theatre — and it’s not Brighton or Blackpool.

A vast seaside pier offering classic British coastal entertainment has been crowned the nation’s finest – and it may surprise you.

Britain boasts stunning coastlines, from expansive golden beaches, salt marshes and dunes to striking chalk cliffs, hidden coves and caves. However, what distinguishes UK shores from anywhere else in the world is its remarkable collection of historic pleasure piers extending into the sea, embodying quintessential British seaside character.

Notable examples include Southend Pier in Essex, the world’s longest pleasure pier, the famous Brighton Palace Pier, and Blackpool Pier with its Victorian entertainment. Yet, one pier has remained somewhat overlooked – that is, until it was crowned the national Pier of the Year.

Following an extensive multimillion-pound refurbishment, Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth was awarded ‘Pier of the Year 2026’ in the National Piers Society’s annual competition. The beloved attraction, originally constructed in 1858 as one of the Victorian timber-framed piers, secured top spot, triumphing over 62 other seaside piers from across the UK – and it offers a wonderful day out!

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Britannia Pier offers all the classic seaside attractions for a thoroughly enjoyable day out, boasting amusement arcades, rides, attractions, a bar, two pubs and stunning coastal views. At its far end sits the Britannia Pier Theatre, which has been welcoming audiences since 1880 and remains one of just five surviving pier theatres in the UK, continuing to draw visitors with an impressive programme of live entertainment.

There is no shortage of seaside dining options along the pier, with a varied selection of eateries including a fresh seafood bar, an American burger bar, and the much-loved Krispies Fish and Chip restaurant. Those with a sweet tooth will be well catered for, with food stalls serving up warm doughnuts, ice cream and churros, reports the Mirror.

In December 2022, the pier was acquired by businessman Joseph Abbott and his wife, Cherise Abbott, who have devoted themselves to restoring this cherished seaside landmark through a £2.2 million refurbishment that remains ongoing. As part of its fresh new look, the dated 1970s signage has been replaced with a sleek, contemporary façade and an eight-metre digital advertising screen.

The amusement arcade has been significantly upgraded and expanded to three times its former size, with new rides, attractions and food stalls also added to the mix. Further plans are in place to renovate the Pier Tavern, one of the pier’s two pubs, with new bars and bifold doors opening out onto a seafront terrace, allowing visitors to make the most of the spectacular views.

Joseph told the BBC: “I used to come to Great Yarmouth as a child – my mum and dad used to bring me, and we used to always go on the pier… play on the rides and the games. To now own it and see it grow – it’s fantastic. To win this award… It’s a great achievement.”

The pier’s transformation has clearly caught visitors’ attention, with one TripAdvisor reviewer writing: “I was not looking forward to seeing the new pier as I was nostalgic for the old style, but good news is, the new pier looks fantastic and has been well renovated, feels so much more spacious now!

“New advertisement screen is excellent, the new renovated frontage of Britannia Pier looks good and professional, well done,” another commented.

Highlighting its classic seaside appeal, one visitor shared: “Enjoyed the pier amusements with grandchildren. There’s plenty of affordable 2p machines which do give out prizes and the attendant even gave us some ‘lucky’ 2ps, very happy kids, thank you.” Though they observed that the toilets might require “more regular cleaning”, during their visit last July.

Meanwhile, another visitor simply said: “A typical British pier. All the things you’d expect, bars, food, funfair, amusements. Worth a visit, lots to do. Nice view.”

Further details about the National Piers Society can be found on their website. Alternatively, plan your trip to Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth via their website.

Drivers are facing delays on the road

A major motorway is blocked due to an “obstruction” on the road. Drivers face long delays along the M11 southbound between Saffron Walden to Bishops Stortford this morning (Wednesday, April 29).

Traffic monitoring site Inrix reports the road is partially blocked. Inrix said: “M11 Southbound partially blocked, long delays due to obstruction on the road from J9A A11 (Saffron Walden) to J8 (Bishops Stortford).”

Emergency services have been contacted for more information.

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Frasers Group plc has bought the York Designer Outlet from the property firm  McArthurGlen.

Fraser Group plc is the retail and property conglomerate behind Sports Direct and the House of Fraser and was founded by Mike Ashley in 1982.

The deal, announced today, also includes Fraser Group Plc also buying the East Midlands Designer Outlet.

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The exterior of York Designer Outlet (Image: Pic supplied)

The company says the move reflects progress in extending its range of brands both as a landlord and retailer.

The 250,000 sq ft York Designer Outlet at Fulford is home to 120 leading UK and international brands and welcomes 4.3 million visitors annually.

The 170,000 sq ft East Midlands Designer Outlet, positioned near the M1 motorway, offers over 65 designer brands and has a footfall of 3.5 million visitors annually.

Michael Murray, Chief Executive Officer at Frasers Group, said: “These strategic acquisitions reinforce our vision, leveraging strong partnerships with leading global brands to unlock mutual value – supporting their outlet strategies while driving growth. Today, we own over one-fifth of the UK outlet market and have a clear ambition to grow our share further.”

The sale price has not been disclosed.