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NewsBeat

Man United latest: Rashford risks unwritten rule break as Carrick has bargain first transfer option

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Manchester Evening News

Manchester United news is coming in thick and fast with Michael Carrick expected to be confirmed as the next permanent manager

Michael Carrick is already receiving transfer propositions following reports that Manchester United have agreed to appoint the interim head coach as Ruben Amorim’s permanent replacement.

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United are said to be presenting Carrick with a two-year deal, with the option to extend it by a further 12 months. After making a permanent appointment, focus will shift towards this summer’s transfer window.

Securing Champions League qualification gives the club a chance to reshape their squad before next season, with a midfield overhaul on the cards. MEN Sport examines some of the most significant stories surrounding United.

Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.

Bargain first signing

Benfica would reportedly be willing to sell United target Richard Rios for just £26 million this summer, according to A Bola. They are said to be considering a major sale, with Andreas Schjelderup and Vangelis Pavlidis also amongst potential departures.

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A rebuild is necessary following a disappointing domestic campaign, in which the team finished considerably behind champions Porto after drawing too many fixtures. Consequently, they will reportedly be prepared to part with Rios for just £26million, a sum that falls well short of the Colombia international’s £87million release clause.

United are amongst several clubs linked with a move ahead of the summer. With the club targeting multiple midfield additions, securing Rios at a discounted price could allow them to meet Elliot Anderson’s valuation.

Securing the Colombian as their first summer signing could also prove advantageous with the World Cup on the horizon. Completing any transfer before the tournament gets underway would help United avoid any inflated price tag driven by his performances in North America.

Napoli are said to be among those competing with United for his signature, and they are due to pay United £38million for Rasmus Hojlund this summer. This sum would effectively cover the cost of any potential deal for Rios.

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Rashford risks unwritten rule break

Marcus Rashford could find himself making a sensational switch from Barcelona to Real Madrid this summer, according to the Independent. The publication cites sources close to the matter, reporting that the Spanish club’s prospective new head coach, Jose Mourinho, is eyeing a move for the forward.

With Barcelona yet to activate their £26million option to sign the England international permanently, there could be a window of opportunity for Madrid to swoop. Mourinho is said to retain a strong rapport with Rashford, dating back to their time together at United when the Portuguese replaced Louis van Gaal.

Any such transfer, however, would be deeply contentious. It is virtually unheard of for a player to represent both clubs, let alone move between them within a single summer. Luis Figo remains the most notorious example, while Luis Milla also made the same crossing before the Portuguese – much like Rashford – after just one season at Barcelona.

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Michael Laudrup is another case in point, though he managed only a single season at Madrid after his switch, while Luis Enrique made the reverse journey during the 1990s. Rashford would become the first senior player to tread that path since Javier Saviola. The Argentine departed Barcelona for Spain’s capital, but, like Laudrup, moved on after just 12 months.

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.

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Jo Malone CBE Readers Ask

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Jo Malone CBE Readers Ask


When coming up with a new fragrance what is your starting point? Eleanor, South East

In my head, I have a library with all of these fragrance notes. I see it as a big, spiral staircase and it goes up and up, and around it are all these shelves with bottles or things on.

Each one is a memory; a walk in the park, riding my horse, lying on a cashmere blanket in the middle of the desert. I pick those bottles, smell them and start to add it to the fragrance. Each one is a story, each note is words, music or touch.

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Then you put together what’s called accords. They’re often single notes, and I’ll take them and twirl the papers round and round. Do they match? Are they a disrupter? Are they a magnet? Do they want to draw and control everything in that fragrance?


If you could only wear one scent for the rest of your life, what would it be? Ali, South West

That’s impossible. I love creating, I love smelling fragrances and I love accords.

But, if I could only take one bottle, it would be ‘Jo by Jo Loves’. I created that many years ago and it’s the story of my life through the ingredients of grapefruit, pomelos, lime and citrus. It reminds me to remember who I am. It was the second business I built and a part of my life where I was really trying to discover again who Jo was.

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Or, it’s always the one I’m currently creating. So at the moment it would be ‘Sunkissed Orange’, the code name of my current working project.


What was the biggest risk you took that defined your career and what did it teach you? Andrew, East of England

I think one of the biggest risks was opening our first shop in Walton Street, 32 years ago. My husband and I had this tiny pool of money for rent and for products and all we could think about was “Can we survive?”. And within five years we’d sold that business, so it paid off.

Then, I left Jo Malone London in 2006 and I had a five year lockout, so I was non-compete. After those five years, an opportunity came to me and I missed fragrance so much that I decided I wanted to take it, but that was a risk.

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Just because you’re successful once in your life, it doesn’t give you the right to be successful again. You have to go from the ground, and let me tell you, the first two years of building Jo Loves were torturous. I lost lots of money. I got it all wrong.

But often when you take risks in business and you push through, you build business muscle and find different solutions. Never be frightened of risk. It’s always going to come, but we have to push on.


What is one piece of advice that you would give to a young person today, setting out in the world of work? Andrew, East of England

Well, it’s going to be an adventure. I left school at 15 years old. I have no qualifications. I had a whole heap of dreams, I set to work and I have built and helped build great global brands. When I was 15 to 16 years old, my first job was in a florist. I never wasted any opportunity to learn something. Learning that you don’t like something is often as valuable as knowing you love it, because you can eliminate a lot.

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Surround yourself with people that you find creative and inspiring and learn from them. If you don’t know how to do it in the beginning, mimic them. Mimic some of their thought processes and conversations. Listen to every word. Read stories of other entrepreneurs.

The next question will probably be: “Well, I don’t know whether I’m an entrepreneur?” You may not be, but you have an entrepreneurial instinct, because the minute you were born, you were born to learn and be creative.

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Horoscope today: Your daily guide for Sunday, May 17, 2026

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Horoscope today: Your daily guide for Sunday, April 5, 2026

Aries (March 21st – April 20th)

Energy builds steadily today as confidence returns in a calm, grounded way. You don’t need to rush to be seen or heard. As I always say, what’s meant for you won’t pass you by. Trust steady progress, my friend. Strength grows through patience now.

Taurus (April 21st – May 21st)

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Mercury enters Gemini until June 1st, and this prodigiously progressive transit helps you gain the momentum you’ve so far not been able to find. Beware those who promise money they don’t yet have. Keep those standards high, and you gain control professionally and financially.

Gemini (May 22nd – June 21st)

Clear thinking returns and conversations flow more smoothly today. A decision feels easier once you stop overthinking it. Trust your natural adaptability. You don’t need permission to change direction, do you? Let curiosity guide you forward.

Cancer (June 22nd – July 23rd)

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Emotional strength grows when you stop carrying everyone else’s worries. Today favours gentle boundaries and honest self-care. Remember, you can’t heal others by hurting yourself. Choose peace without guilt, my friend. Support follows self-respect now.

Leo (July 24th – August 23rd)

Confidence shines quietly today through calm choices rather than bold gestures. A leadership moment appears when you least expect it. As I often say, true power never needs to shout. Lead with kindness and wisdom. Others notice your grace.

Virgo (August 24th – September 23rd)

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Relationships feel lighter when you allow things to unfold naturally today, Virgo. Not everything needs fixing or explaining this weekend, so trust mutual understanding. Small acts of kindness strengthen bonds more than words. Let go of perfection.

Libra (September 24th – October 23rd)

Balance returns as you give equal time to rest and responsibility, thank the heavens. A routine tweak you make your way and not others improves wellbeing more than you realise. Listen to your body’s signals. Peace comes from daily choices, not big promises.

Scorpio (October 24th – November 22nd)

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Creative and emotional energy deepens, encouraging honest self-expression. Don’t hide what matters to keep the peace, and know that what’s spoken with truth brings healing this weekend. Share your feelings bravely, my friend. Authenticity strengthens connections now.

Sagittarius (November 23rd – December 21st)

The Moon highlights home and family matters today, stirring reflection and emotional grounding. Comfort comes from familiar places and trusted people. Let yourself slow down without guilt. Security grows when you honour your roots.

Capricorn (December 22nd – January 20th)

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Communication flows best when softening your delivery. A practical conversation leads to progress if you listen as much as you speak. Respect builds bridges today. Stay flexible without losing authority.

Aquarius (January 21st – February 19th)

Self-worth themes surface gently, reminding you not to undervalue yourself (again). Financial and personal choices improve when aligned with your principles. Know your worth before you negotiate. Trust your inner compass.

Pisces (February 20th – March 20th)

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You’re more emotionally aware today, sensing what’s needed without explanation. Protect your energy and choose kindness toward yourself. Sensitivity is your strength when guided wisely. Let intuition lead calmly forward.

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Scorpio 0904 470 1148 (65p per minute)*

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*Astro line horoscopes are updated every Thursday. Calls cost 65p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge and will last approximately five minutes. You must be over 18 and have the bill payer’s permission. Service provided by Spoke. Customer service: 0333 202 3390

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Ofsted says pupils at Cambridge school ‘not achieving as well as they should’

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Cambridgeshire Live

The school says that “all necessary improvements are already underway”

A Cambridge primary school has been told it ‘needs attention’ by Ofsted. After dropping from an overall ‘good’ rating in their previous inspection, staff members at St Philip’s CofE Aided Primary School said they have recognised “some areas need continued attention” and that “all the necessary improvements are already well underway”, which Ofsted noted.

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The report, which was published on Thursday, May 14, judged the primary school ‘expected standard’ in four areas assessed and ‘needs attention’ in three including in attendance and behaviour and achievement, and curriculum and teaching.

The report states that over time, pupils have “not achieved as well as they should”. It added: “Outcomes in national tests at the end of key stage 2 in reading, writing and mathematics dipped significantly in 2025. Although outcomes in reading and mathematics for all pupils were close to national averages, outcomes for disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) were significantly below.”

However, the inspection also identified that leaders have “taken steps to address weaknesses in pupils’ writing and have transformed support for pupils with SEND and disadvantaged pupils”. They have also “refreshed their approach to teaching phonics to improve achievement”, and Ofsted noted that this new approach has not been in place for sufficient time to be reflected in national test outcomes yet.

The safeguarding standards were met and early years, inclusion, leadership and governance and personal development and wellbeing were graded at ‘expected standard’.

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The report said that leaders acknowledge that “too many pupils are or have been persistently absent and missing school”, and, as a result, a revised approach to improving attendance was introduced.

Inspectors found that teachers “do not consistently provide pupils with meaningful opportunities to develop the important knowledge they need in English and mathematics” and at times, pupils “do not receive helpful guidance and support to develop the accuracy of their reading or the clarity of their writing”.

“In some other subjects, leaders have not ensured that pupils learn the key vocabulary that they need to understand and explain their learning. This hinders the progress that pupils make”, the report continued.

However, Ofsted noted that leaders have an accurate view of curriculum strengths, have identified areas for development and have begun to bring about improvements.

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A spokesperson for St Philip’s CofE Aided Primary School said: “We are pleased that the inspectors showed a balanced understanding of what St Philip’s does well, and what we are working to develop. The school has faced challenges in recent years; however, we now have a capable and committed new Headteacher.”

Ofsted praised the staff for being “passionate, knowledgeable and enthusiastic leadership” and noted that children “recognise the positive recent changes to their school” , “are proud to have roles and responsibilities that help them to contribute to school life” and “take these responsibilities seriously”.

A spokesperson for St Philip’s CofE Aided Primary School said “Although some areas need continued attention, the inspectors fully endorsed leaders’ decisions and priorities. They judged that only minor improvements need to be made for the school to be ‘Expected standard’ in all areas, and they noted that all the necessary improvements are already well underway.

“We are particularly pleased that the school met all Safeguarding criteria, and that our Leadership & Governance met the expected standard. Being a safe, well-led environment gives us solid foundations to grow and develop.

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“Furthermore, the inspectors praised pupils’ wellbeing and behaviour, commenting on the kindness and consideration they had observed during their visit; this is endorsed by the 95% of respondents to the Ofsted Parent View questionnaire who agreed that ‘My child is happy at this school’. (Although Attendance & Behaviour was graded as ‘Needs attention’, this was only because recent improvements in attendance have not yet been sustained over sufficient time.)

“We feel that the Ofsted summary of ‘What it’s like to be a pupil at this school’ gives an excellent and balanced picture, noting recent improvements in teaching and concluding that ‘the school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain’. Perhaps that’s why 95% of respondents to the Parent View questionnaire said that they would recommend St Philip’s to another parent.”

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Wales icon who made 93 Premier League appearances now sells building materials

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Wales Online

The ex-Wales and Premier League star underwent a curious career pivot

Former Wales star Sam Ricketts walked away from football to pursue a career in construction. Ricketts, now 44, played 103 games for Swansea City and earned 52 caps for Wales.

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Sam Ricketts’ tenure at Swansea City from 2004 to 2006 marked a meteoric rise from non-league football to the international stage following his free transfer from the defunct Telford United. He became an immediate fixture in Kenny Jackett’s side, earning a place in the PFA League Two Team of the Year and helping the club secure promotion during their emotional final season at the Vetch Field.

During his second year, Ricketts was instrumental in Swansea’s transition to the Liberty Stadium and their 2-1 victory over Carlisle United in the Football League Trophy final at the Millennium Stadium. Although his time in South Wales ended after a heartbreaking play-off final defeat in 2006, his 103 appearances paved the way for a successful career in the higher divisions and the Premier League.

He went on to play a pivotal role in Hull City’s remarkable promotion to the Premier League in 2008/09 with the Tigers once more on the brink of the top flight this season, with the play-off final just days away.

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Following his departure from Hull, Ricketts, turned out for Bolton in the Premier League, Wolves, Swindon Town and Coventry. Managerial spells with Wrexham and Shrewsbury Town came next.

After departing Shrewsbury in November 2020, the former right-back embarked on a fresh chapter as a construction merchant, stepping away from the game. He revealed in 2021: “I’m done at the minute – I’ve opened a builder’s merchants instead.

“I’ll do that for a couple of years and pick and choose what I do in football. I don’t want to move, stay away from home five nights a week, that’s just me.”

Although he was born in England, Ricketts was eligible to feature for Wales due to his grandmother being Welsh. However, Ricketts will forever be associated with the Tigers’ historic season and promotion under former manager Phil Brown.

The side rose from 18th in early October to second by mid-April. The former defender has warm recollections of that memorable campaign, even drawing parallels with Leicester City’s remarkable Premier League title success in 2016.

“We didn’t come into that season wanting to get promoted,” said Ricketts in 2018. “I’m not sure that was the aim for anyone. But we gradually built as the season went on and improved as a team.

“We had good players who worked incredibly hard for each other. Everyone bought into what we were trying to do. The team was full of players who had never been in the Premier League before, so once all those eyes were fixed on the possibility of winning promotion, it galvanised everyone.

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“It was a bit like when Leicester won the Premier League. They never thought they were going to win the Premier League at the start of that season, but I will guarantee you that for the last few months of that season, they ate, slept and breathed those possibilities. That was us in 2008.”

Ricketts called time on the game in 2016 following injury concerns. In a statement, he revealed how he was going to gain his coaching badges with the Welsh FA: “Today, I am announcing my decision to retire from the game after having received medical advice that I should stop playing with immediate effect due to injury.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me to fulfil every boy’s dream of becoming a professional footballer. I am grateful to all of the managers, coaches and teammates that I have had the honour of working with and learning from throughout my career.

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“I would also like to express my gratitude to the brilliant supporters of the clubs I have played at for always offering me their wholehearted support.

“It has been a fantastic journey and one which has provided me with so many unbelievable experiences and memories. As my playing career comes to an end, I am now looking forward to embarking on a new chapter.

“A few years ago, I started working towards my coaching badges and am currently in the process of completing my UEFA A Licence with the Welsh FA. I am excited about the challenges that lie ahead and now hope to be able to give something back to a game which has given me so much.”

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.

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Who won Eurovision 2026? Full leaderboard and scores

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Who won Eurovision 2026? Full leaderboard and scores

The 2026 competition was held in Vienna, Austria, after their act JJ won the 2025 contest with the song ‘Wasted Love’.

Favourites going into the final included the Finnish duo Pete Parkkonen and Linda Lampenius, and Australian singer Delta Goodrem.

Meanwhile, the UK’s entry was Sam Battle (known by his stage name Look Mum No Computer), who is known for his unusual electronic music.

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But how did the votes stack up, and who impressed the juries and viewing public the most?

Who won Eurovision 2026?

The full leaderboard for Eurovision 2026 is as follows:

Bulgaria’s Dara secured victory, with her song ‘Bangaranga’ scoring 516 points.

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A tense finale saw Israel in first place until the last points were announced, eventually finishing second with 343 points.

The country’s entrant, Noam Bettan, sang his song ‘Michelle’, in English, Hebrew and French.

Some chants and booing could be heard in the crowd, where many Israeli flags and banners could also be seen.

There were a number of protests in Vienna this week over Israel’s inclusion in the contest amid its actions in Gaza.

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Romania’s Alexandra Capitanescu, with the intense pop metal song Choke Me, finished third on 296 points.

Speaking at a press conference after her win, Dara said: “I want to thank my husband, because he was the one to push me to come to Eurovision.

“Because in the beginning I was not sure if I want to come or not, because I had anxiety and doubt with myself, and he was the one that he just pushed me, and he was like, ‘you need to go right now to Eurovision, right now, pick up your phone tell them you’re going’.”

She added: “I’m so thankful that I (got) the chance to be in Eurovision, and every day I’ve been here in this place, I felt safe, protected, loved, supported.


Recommended reading:

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“I felt that I can do everything, that everything is possible, and I really, truly think that this community is so amazing.

“I will miss you so much, today I woke up, and I almost cried, because I will miss this place, and you all.”

Dara’s win means next year’s contest will take place in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia.

What did you think of Eurovision 2026 this year? Let us know in the comments.

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Cleaning expert shares simple 1p cleaning hack for mirrors

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Cleaning expert shares simple 1p cleaning hack for mirrors

The trick, shared by content creator Armen Adamjan, costs just 1p and uses something found in almost every home.

Mr Adamjan said: “Did you know if you grab a tea bag and put it in hot water for about five minutes then pour it into a spray bottle, what you have right now is a homemade natural chemical-free mirror cleaner.

“The tannic acid in tea leaves your mirrors streak-free and crystal clear.”

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The reason why tea bags are so effective is because they contain tannins, which are a natural type of plant compound found in foods and beverages including tea, coffee, chocolate and wine.


How to Get Rid of Ants from Your Home


This acts as a mild and acidic agent that can be used to break down dirt, grease and fingerprints which so easily build up on our mirrors.

It is thought black tea bags contain the highest tannin concentration and steeping the tea bag for at least five minutes increases the tannin extraction.

With most Brits already having their cupboards stocked up with teabags and with them being available for as little as 1p it is a cheap and effective hack.

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To carry out the cleaning hack, the content creator advises Brits to grab a tea bag and leave it in hot water for around five minutes.

After leaving the tea bag to brew, tip the contents into a spray bottle ready to spray onto your mirror.

For the final step, grab a cloth and wipe the tea bag water off the mirror until it’s dry.

Armen claims this will leave your mirrors looking shiny and clean.

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Tea bags are a staple in most British households and can be bought for as little as 1p each.

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Major Gmail update spotted and users aren’t happy, here’s how it may affect you

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Daily Mirror

An update to Google’s terms has been spotted and it could mean less storage for your emails.

It’s no secret that Google’s Gmail service is one of the most popular on the planet, with it boasting some 1.8 billion users. Its success is partly down to its easy setup process and the generous free storage Google dishes out, allowing users to save emails and files without paying monthly subscription fees . However, it seems a change is on the way — and not everyone is pleased.

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According to a Reddit user, Google now appears to offer only 5GB of free storage to people who create a new Gmail account without linking a phone number. Previously, all new accounts typically received 15GB of storage without requiring additional personal information.

“Gmail now gives 5GB free if you sign up without a phone number,” the post on Reddit said.

The user explained that while creating a new Gmail address, they were told they would receive the full 15GB only if they added a phone number. Otherwise, the account would be limited to 5GB.

READ MORE: EE dishes out useful free upgrade to iPhone and Android users – here’s how to get it

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Screenshots shared online reportedly show a message during signup saying:

“Review your storage options. Your account includes 5GB of storage. Now get even more storage space with your number for Google Photos, Drive and Gmail. Google will use your phone number to make sure storage is added only once per account.”

Further fueling speculation, 9to5Google noticed a subtle update on Google’s support pages. Previously, the company stated: “Your Google Account comes with 15 GB of cloud storage at no charge.”

That wording has reportedly been changed to, “Your Google Account comes with up to 15 GB of cloud storage.”

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Google has not officially explained the updated terms, but some believe it could be aimed at reducing fake accounts or preventing users from creating multiple accounts simply to gain extra free storage.

The reaction online has been largely negative. One Reddit user joked that the next step might be forcing YouTube creators to share phone numbers to keep their videos online, while another sarcastically predicted the free allowance could eventually shrink even further.

Others criticised the move as another example of tech companies encouraging users to trade personal data for services.

At the moment, the reported change appears to affect only newly created accounts, not existing Gmail users. Google has yet to release an official statement clarifying the situation.

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Today’s rugby news as Cardiff learn play-off opponents and spitting allegations emerge

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Wales Online

The latest rugby stories making morning headlines on Sunday, May 17.

Here are your rugby morning headlines for Sunday, May 17.

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Spitting allegation made in URC clash

Munster’s United Rugby Championship victory over the Lions was marred by an allegation of spitting by one of the Lions players.

Munster replacement Diarmuid Barron made the allegation during the second half of Saturday night’s match.

The Irish province’s captain Craig Casey brought the incident to the attention of referee Andrea Piardi during their 24-17 win at Thomond Park.

Piardi looked at the “serious allegation” with the TMO, which was made by replacement Barron.

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However, the TMO was unable to verify anything obvious from the Lions players during the rucks.

After a lengthy delay, play resumed – although the incident is likely to be sent to the disciplinary citing commission.

Bizarrely, Barron did an on-air TV interview following the match – but wasn’t asked about the incident.

Barron had initially been banned for the match against the Lions, but he was cleared to play after his red card against Connacht was overturned.

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Cardiff learn play-off opponents

Cardiff will take on the Stormers in their United Rugby Championship quarter-final in a repeat of Friday’s superb victory.

The Blue and Blacks sealed their place in the top eight by overcoming the South African side at the Arms Park, winning 22-16.

Having had to wait for Saturday’s results to find out where they’d finish in the league table, the Bulls’ win ended any hopes of a home quarter-final.

Leinster’s win over the Ospreys and Munster’s win over the Lions meant that Corniel van Zyl’s side will face the Stormers once again – this time in Cape Town.

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The match will take place at DHL Stadium on Saturday, May 30, kicking off at 2.30pm.

Two Welsh bosses ruing missed chance

Both Scarlets and Dragons bosses were left ruing their luck after the two sides finished off their season with an entertaining 35-35 draw.

The Dragons, who were bidding to avoid being Wales’ lowest-placed side in the league for the first time since 2020, led for much of the match in Llanelli, but were ultimately pegged back in an eventful Welsh derby.

The Scarlets had a chance to win it late on, but Joe Hawkins’ penalty was off-target.

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“The character was fantastic and since I’ve been here I can’t fault the effort of these players,” said Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies.

“We could have easily had four home wins.

“There’s a few things we can do moving forward next year and probably one of the biggest is make sure discipline is where it needs to be.”

Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia added: “We should have won. We dominated territory and possession for large parts of the game.

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“We just allowed them to have opportunities and they took them. It was one of those games and I was disappointed for the group.

“It was a fourth draw in 18 games and not really a record I want because you can talk about whether they should have been wins.”

Jones says Dublin hammering won’t define Ospreys season

Ospreys head coach Mark Jones says Saturday’s 10-try defeat to Leinster won’t define their season.

The club brought the curtain down on a difficult season with a 68-14 defeat in Dublin. It has been a testing campaign for the club, with off-field uncertainty threatening their very existence and resulting in the departure of Wales duo Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake.

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“The scoreboard is really ugly,” said Jones afterwards. “I just said to the group try not to focus too much on that as a level of how hard you tried and the quality you put into the game.

“There were some good patches for us there and we created some good opportunities. We didn’t capitalise.

“That first 20 minutes, we had good field positions and lineouts in key areas, but we turned the ball over. Like good teams do, they went up the other end and punished us on every one.

“We chased a little bit then because we wanted an impact on the scoreboard. Through the chasing, we snatched at some bits and fed some of the high quality transition players Leinster have got.

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“You’re basically playing Ireland here. We knew it was a big ask. It was probably one game too much for us. We looked a bit tired in some of those moments.

“I don’t want this to be the game we remember. I want to remember some of the performances and victories, through the adversity we’ve had. The boys deserve credit for it.”

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‘Rare’ cottage at family-friendly National Trust site among last of its type

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Cambridgeshire Live

The Fen Cottage was built in around 1700 and is one of the last surviving homes of its type

A historic cottage at a popular National Trust site in Cambridgeshire has been given a Grade II listing. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England has given Fen Cottage at Wicken Fen protected status.

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The cottage was built around 1700 using clay, peat, and sedge grass for the roofing thatch that had been collected locally It is one of the last surviving homes of its type.

Tony Calladine, East of England Regional Director, Historic England, said: “This 300-year-old cottage is a rare record of how people once depended on their natural surroundings. The Fen fed, housed, and employed the people around it and Fen Cottage stands as evidence of that vital relationship between the people and the land.”

The cottage was originally found in the hamlet of “the Lode” but is now a part of the Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. The fen dwellers used to make their homes by cutting sedge for roof thatching, digging for peat, and digging clay for brick making and floor tiles.

In the 19th century, the cottage was home to Charles and Jane Butcher. The last resident was Alice Butcher, who lived there until 1972 when she died at age 93. The interior of the cottage has back-to-back fireplaces in the two original rooms.

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The living room connects to the bedroom, which has a ladder to reach the sleeping loft. The house also has an extended kitchen with an iron range cooker, a bread oven, and a pantry.

The National Trust took over the cottage in 1974. The cottage was restored between 1988 and 1990 and is described as bringing “together natural and social history”.

The Fen Cottage is a popular spot for families to visit with lots of activities on throughout the year including crafting events. There is even a Santa’s Grotto at Christmas.

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Emma Ormond-Bones, National Trust General Manager for North Cambridgeshire, said: “We are delighted by the award of Grade II status, which recognises the importance of Fen Cottage, not only as part of Cambridgeshire’s built heritage, but also for its cultural importance as a symbol of the deep, historic relationship between people and nature at Wicken Fen, reflecting the livelihoods and communities that once depended upon this wonderful wetland landscape.

“Whilst the focus for this habitat has shifted away from harvesting for materials and food, Wicken Fen remains vital for our communities, providing access to nature for physical and mental wellbeing, as well as playing a key role in fighting the nature and climate crisis.

”The role of Fen Cottage in storytelling both our past and future is critical, and as such, we welcome Historic England’s protection of this wonderful place for the benefit of future generations.”

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Bob Odenkirk: ‘I’m good enough to do my own stunts at 63’

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Bob Odenkirk: 'I'm good enough to do my own stunts at 63'
‘There’s an advantage I feel that I have in not having used my body,’ Bob Odenkirk tells Metro (Picture: Getty Images)

Age is just a number, they say. Just ask Bob Odenkirk. At 63, the American star is enjoying something of a late-career switch to action star.

After playing slimy lawyer Saul Goodman in TV series Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, he played a family man fighting the Russian mafia in 2021 film Nobody and last year’s sequel, Nobody 2. Now he’s an interim sheriff facing off with some corrupt townsfolk in new movie, Normal.

Like Liam Neeson before him, Bob’s getting in on the geri-action gigs. It’s 10am when we speak and he’s itching to get down the gym. In the afternoon, he’s off to work out with his trainer, Daniel Bernhardt.

‘It engages your brain,’ he says. From boxing to choreography, he and Daniel spar like demons. ‘It’s just more fun than a workout that a person would do on their own.’

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Bob ‘reluctantly’ took up going to the gym in his 30s. But it was only in his early 50s, when he and writer Derek Kolstad started developing Nobody, that he learned how to stunt fight. ‘Now I’m good enough to do all the basics on my own,’ he says.

Los Angeles Premiere Of Magnolia Pictures
Bob was drawn to the script for Normal, not because it was filled with bone-crunching action (Picture: The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)
Undated film still from Normal. Pictured: Bob Odenkirk as Ulysses Richardson and Jess Mcleod as Akex. See PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews. PA Photo. Picture credit should read: Magnolia Films. All Rights Reserved. NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature SHOWBIZ Film Reviews.
Bob plays an interim sheriff facing off with some corrupt townsfolk in new movie Normal (Picture:: Magnolia Films. All Rights Reserved)

I ask Bob whether his example might lead to others of his age doing the same and taking up fitness in their later years. ‘I hope so. I would like to inspire people.

‘There’s an advantage I feel that I have in not having used my body. My knees are in decent shape. My hips are in good shape. My back is good. It’s not great, but it’s good.’

Bob was drawn to the script for Normal, not because it was filled with bone-crunching action – which it is – but because of the mysterious first act, as his character Ulysses discovers that just about everyone in the film’s Midwest town of Normal is crooked.

‘I’m just all about the first act,’ he shrugs. ‘Is there a story, a guy that we can relate to? And certain kind of tensions? Things that when we feel them, we go, “I know what that feels like.”’ Raised in Naperville, Illinois, the second eldest of seven siblings, Bob knows something of what it’s like to live in a town like the one in the film.

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‘It certainly felt like I was in the middle of nowhere as a kid,’ he says. ‘And as a teenager I couldn’t wait to get out. But the town I grew up in was a quaint, very nice Midwestern town. If I had an issue with it, it was that it was too sedate and too placid.’

In three days, Bob is heading to the real Normal – the small Illinois college town that lent its name to the movie. ‘I’m going to show this movie to a bunch of people,’ he says, presumably hoping they won’t be too offended that he and Derek Kolstad depicted a town on the wane.

Film Review - Normal
Bob has made an unexpected switch to action star (Picture: AP)

‘The movie was not called “Normal”,’ he says. ‘It was called “The Interim” because my character is an interim sheriff. He’s filling in. And I said, “Could you name it after the town?”’

With Ben Wheatley, British cult director of horror crime film Kill List (2011) at the helm, Bob looks like he could give prime-era Arnie Schwarzenegger and Sly Stallone a run for their money when it comes to action.

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‘You get a lot of protection when you’re doing film,’ he says. ‘The stunt team make you look good. So I think anybody who’s being honest with you about doing action knows that the team of people who are taking the hits are making it look just as good as the person delivering.’

What’s intriguing about Bob’s unexpected switch to action star is that he started out as a comedy writer, working on shows such as Saturday Night Live and The Ben Stiller Show.

Performing sketch comedy is a world away from movie fighting. ‘In comedy, it’s fun to smile,’ he says. ‘The character comes out, you know who they are and you want to hug them. You know them, completely, from sight. There’s no ulterior thing going on at all. That works great in comedy.’

Then came Breaking Bad and its equally brilliant spin-off Better Call Saul. ‘Actors dream of parts that are as good as the parts in both of those series. Almost every character gets justification, gets dimension.’

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Bob worked with British cult director Ben Wheatley for Normal (Picture: Getty Images)

He points to a ‘wonderful’ episode in the latter when the evil Gus Fring’s personal life is shown. ‘I mean, that kind of writing, that kind of world-building with sensitivity and humanity, is just… thank God people liked it so that we got to do it.’

The two shows turned Bob into a major star, with Better Call Saul netting him six Emmy nominations across its seasons. The role of Saul was once-in-a-lifetime. ‘I just went at it with complete earnestness and seriousness of purpose, without any protection of apology or ironic dimension that would protect me.’

Now Bob is developing a comedy with his son Nate, inspired by classic British sitcom The Royle Family, which starred Ricky Tomlinson as a sofa-dwelling, TV-watching curmudgeon.

‘It’s quite different but again, the DNA of people just sitting around is there,’ says Bob, who also has a daughter, Erin, with his talent manager/producer wife Naomi Yomtov.

From action star to couch potato? Not on your life. Bob has no plans to ditch his gym routine. ‘I have to keep it up,’ he grins.

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Normal is in cinemas now.

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