The biscuit has an interesting bit of history behind its ‘ornate’ pattern

One of Britain’s most iconic treats, available for under £1 in most supermarkets, has kept a distinctive piece of history to this day. Few people actually understand why the beloved Custard Cream features such an “ornate” pattern compared to other biscuits.

On Instagram (@Theotherbritishmusuem), radio presenter Annabel Port delves into unusual aspects of British heritage, uncovering entertaining ‘did you know’ facts. In a viral video viewed by over 612,000 people, she examined the reason behind one of Britain’s most recognisable biscuits having its “over the top” design, reports the Mirror.

She said: “You will not believe what the swirls on a custard cream are supposed to be. These are one of the UK’s favourite biscuits and also one of the cheapest.

“It’s a very bog standard food with an incredibly over-the-top, ornate decoration – like a semi in Swindon with a recreation of the Sistine Chapel inside.” Custard cream biscuits have been savoured in Britain since 1908, Annabel revealed, with the Victorians responsible for the biscuit’s “ornate” appearance.

She continued: “[The Victorians] were mad for ferns. They were so obsessed that they held fern-hunting parties and collected them to the point that some species became extinct.”

“The reason ferns got so massive was [because of] George Loddiges. He built the largest greenhouse in the world in Hackney, East London, and it was really expensive – so he needed people to visit.” More powerful than sticking an advert somewhere, Loddiges spread a rumour that an appreciation for ferns showed a sign of intelligence.

“Somehow, this actually worked,” Annabel joked. She added: “There was such a craze for them that they put a fern-like decoration on this biscuit. That’s what those swirls are supposed to be.

“Not sure they did the greatest job. At least now I can think ‘Oh this makes me look more intelligent’ – even though they are a little bit boring.”

Advertisement

To this day, Custard Creams remain a British favourite that millions enjoy nationwide every day. Retailers stock these baked goods for as little as 45p per pack.

Previously, Annabel revealed the “rule” that prompted nearly all UK washing-up liquids to choose the exact same colour – green – despite only one having a logical explanation. People were fascinated to discover that another slice of Victorian-era history has shaped major brands to this day, including Asda, Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Aldi and Lidl.

Annabel explained: “Back in 1898, Fairy Soap was launched and was used for everything – clothes, dishes, skin, whatever. It was made in Newcastle by Thomas Hedley and Co, and early ads show that the soap was also green, olive green, and for a reason, it contained olive oil.

“The olive oil is gone now, probably as it’s more expensive than gold or printer ink. This was their brand colour and they stuck with it, even if it got more lurid over the years and other companies blindly followed.”

Snooker’s top stars are lasting longer than ever, with some of the best in the world now in their 50s and still competing for titles.

The legendary trio of Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Williams and John Higgins have all passed the half-century and all remain in the top 16 in the world rankings.

Then come the 40-somethings who are also as good as ever: Mark Selby, Neil Robertson, Shaun Murphy, Mark Allen and Barry Hawkins among them.

30 years old used to be seen as the beginning of the end on the baize, but now it seems unlikely to even be the halfway mark of a career.

That is not to say there aren’t young talents around, as we have seen at the Crucible of late, with the last two world champions lifting the trophy in their twenties.

It is as difficult as ever for youngsters to make the breakthrough, with legendary names somehow still producing brilliance for at lot longer than they ever did in the past.

Are you snooker loopy?

You’re in the right place. I’m Phil Haigh, and I cover the game we all love for Metro.

In my newsletter, The Table, I analyse the biggest talking points, pull back the curtain on the sport and crown the biggest winners and losers every week.

Advertisement

Sign up here.

There are bright young things around on the professional tour, though, and here are the 30 youngsters shining brightest, ranked by both what they have done so far and what they are likely to achieve in the future.

30. Liam Davies – 19 – Wales

29. Iulian Boiko – 20 – Ukraine

Still just 20, it feels that Iulian Boiko has been around a while since first turning pro at 14. Progress has not been rapid since then, but has been noticeable, looking more comfortable on tour last season.

28. Wang Xinbo 18 – China

Only just turning pro this season, but Wang Xinbo could make quick strides up the rankings. Won his first ranking match three years ago as a wildcard and won two World Championship qualifiers comfortably in April. Looks great.

27. Michal Szubarczyk – 15 – Poland

The youngest ever professional could easily have gone his whole first season winless, but picked up some impressive victories. Notably two of those came in World Championship qualifying. He doesn’t turn 16 till January.

26. Lan Yuhao – 17 – China

It was just the odd win here and there in his first season on tour, but Lan Yuhao passes the eye test and looks to have a lot of potential. Mark Selby, Matthew Stevens and Michael Holt have all noted how good the teenager looks.

25. Artemijs Zizins – 20 – Latvia

Some big wins at key times last season over the likes of Ali Carter and Luca Brecel saw the Latvian cling onto his tour card. Isn’t delivering consistently yet, but progress continues.

24. Gao Yang – 21 – China

WSF Championship winner last year, Gao Yang is in his second stint on tour and is looking more the part. Two years on the spin he has won three matches in World Championship qualifying, but just missed out on the Crucible both times.

23. Long Zehuang – 29 – China

Quickly established himself as a solid mid-ranker since turning pro in 2023, but more steady than spectacular. A very good player, but not with the potential of some on this list.

22. Ben Mertens – 21 – Belgium

It’s been very under-the-radar progress from Ben Mertens, but into the top 64 in the world rankings at 21 is impressive. Still waiting for a deep run outside the Shootout, but it is coming.

21. Julien Leclercq – 23 – Belgium

The Belgian Beast has shown flashes, with a run to the Shootout final in 2023 and qualifying for the UK Championship last season, but it feels like there is plenty more to come from the 6’6″ giant.

20. Antoni Kowalski – 22 – Poland

Needed to win three World Championship qualifiers to save his tour card in April and he did just that, with impressive victories over Joe O’Connor and Jamie Jones. A confident character, he’s capable of kicking on now.

19. Jiang Jun – 20 – China

One frame away from a Crucible debut in April after beating Elliot Slessor in the penultimate round. A slightly odd player to watch, Jiang downed the likes of Mark Selby, Barry Hawkins, Dave Gilbert, Thepchaiya Un-Nooh, Chris Wakelin and Hossein Vafaei last season.

18. Louis Heathcote – 28 – England

Two of his three ranking quarter-finals have come in the last two seasons, so progress continues, but we are still waiting for a big breakthrough for the Hoover. The talent is there, but one thing he must start doing is win more matches on the road as Chinese events are a huge help on the rankings.

17. Liam Pullen – 20 – England

The Yorkshireman’s first two years on tour were tough, as you’d expect them to be, but last season he started showing what he’s got. Wins over the likes of John Higgins and Chris Wakelin, a first ranking quarter-final and winning four matches to make a Crucible debut.

16. He Guoqiang – 25 – China

A Crucible debut this year – beating Jack Lisowski in qualifying – continued He’s rapid progress since turning pro in 2023. He has two wins under his belt over Ronnie O’Sullivan, plus victories over the likes of Neil Robertson, Wu Yize, Kyren Wilson and Barry Hawkins.

15. Liu Hongyu – 22 – China

Made a splash in his first season by making the semi-finals of the 2023 English Open, beating Shaun Murphy, Chris Wakelin, Mark Williams and Ding Junhui en route. That remains his most impressive performance, but he has been steady in climbing the rankings.

Advertisement

14. Lyu Haotian – 28 – China

One ranking final, four more semis and four trips to the Crucible, it’s a very decent return, but Lyu Haotian’s progress has stalled. He sits at number 61 in the world rankings, having reached 24 at one stage, but there is clearly great talent in there.

13. Jackson Page – 24 – Wales

Action Jackson is becoming a more regular face at the business end of events, with a ranking final and four quarter-finals over the last two seasons but consistency is still evading him. Progress seemed to stall a bit over the last campaign, but is devastating when he hits form.

12. Xu Si – 28 – China

The 2024/25 season was Xu Si’s best of his career, but the last campaign saw him return to the unspectacular results of previous years. He looks great at times, making three maximums, but consistency is still lacking after nine years on tour.

11. Yuan Sijun – 26 – China

Turning pro in 2017, Yuan Sijun has been a coming man for nearly a decade but he is still yet to arrive. There’s still plenty of time and is impressively ranked 30 in the world, but he is still to fulfil the potential he was showing a few years ago.

10. Aaron Hill – 24 – Ireland

Two 147s last season and a third ranking quarter-final continued the Irishman’s march up the world rankings to well inside the top 50. Improvements are clear and the next step seems imminent, perhaps semi-finals Triple Crown qualification.

Advertisement

9. Fan Zhengyi – 25 – China

Out of nowhere Fan Zhengyi beat a load of top players including Ronnie O’Sullivan in the final to win the 2022 European Masters. He hasn’t really seemed like repeating that since, but three wins in World Championship qualifying this year and then an epic 10-9 loss to Shaun Murphy saw him looking good again.

8. Stan Moody – 19 – England

The teenager reached his first two ranking quarter-finals last season and is up to a career high ranking of 40 after making a Crucible debut in April. He may have lost that World Championship opener to Kyren Wilson, but a thrilling opening session showed what a danger he is to anyone. He beat Wilson, John Higgins, Ali Carter (twice), Barry Hawkins, Ding Junhui and Zhou Yuelong (twice) last season.

7. Lei Peifan – 23 – China

The 2024 Scottish Open victory was entirely out of the blue but was a stunning win. He has backed it up to an extent, qualifying for the Crucible twice since and beating defending champion Kyren Wilson there last year. He came through UK Championship qualifying in each of the last two seasons as well, so is racking up serious experience for his age.

6. Pang Junxu – 26 – China

One of the least flashy youngsters to emerge from China in recent years but one of the more effective. He has a ranking final and two semis to his name and has reached the Crucible four years on the bounce. Wins a lot of games and looks a pain to play, which is a compliment.

5. Si Jiahui – 23 – China

After his incredible World Championship semi-final run in 2023 it looked like Si Jiahui was the next big star. It continued to look like that when he reached the German Masters and Wuhan Open finals, while he also beat Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump in spectacular fashion in big events. Last season saw him stall and drop behind a couple of compatriots on this list, but clearly the game is in there.

4. Chang Bingyu – 23 – China

Back on tour last season after a ban, it was an eye-catching return and there is a lot of excitement about what Chang Bingyu can produce in the coming campaign. A ranking final, two 147s and a whitewash win over Shaun Murphy with 100 per cent pot success were notable highlights of the 2025-26 season. On his way to the Scottish Open final he beat Stephen Maguire, Si Jiahui, Kyren Wilson, Mark Selby and Mark Allen.

Advertisement

3. Zhou Yuelong – 28 – China

Turning professional in 2014 with a huge amount of expectation, it is surprising Zhou Yuelong is yet to land a ranking title, but he has come close, with four finals to his name. Because we have seen so much of him it is tempting to think he may have peaked, but he could easily replicate thetitle-winning success of the likes of Xiao Guodong and Zhang Anda. In fact, his ceiling is probably higher.

2. Wu Yize – 22- China

Crucible success in May turned Wu Yize into a superstar as he became the second youngest world champion ever. It was just his second ranking title, but he could rack up a huge amount over the next 20 years.

Wu Yize has pushed hard for top spot, but Zhao Xintong still holds on for now after a brilliant season as world champion saw him add three more ranking titles to his collection.

He doesn’t turn 30 until April next year and we can expect a few more trophies on the mantlepiece by then.

What does it all mean?

Nationalities of snooker’s 30 under 30

China – 18
England – 3
Belgium – 2
Poland – 2
Wales – 2
Ireland – 1
Latvia – 1
Ukraine – 1

Advertisement

As we have known for some time, the top young talent is overwhelmingly coming from China more than anywhere else.

Britain is lagging behind, with more coming from mainland Europe than the UK right now.

Advertisement

Comments


Add as preferred source

The Table

Stay ahead of snooker’s next big break with Metro’s resident expert Phil Haigh in his new weekly newsletter.

Advertisement

North Yorkshire Police said a blue-coloured electric bicycle with Twofish branding and two seats, was stolen from accommodation in King Street, around 11.25am on Tuesday, April 14.

Recommended reading:

The force has issued an appeal for to the public for information along with an image of a person its officers said could assist its investigation.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: “If you can help our appeal, please email clair.bailey-lane@northyorkshire.police.uk.

“Or call 101 and ask for PC 1411 Clair Bailey-Lane.

“If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Please quote reference 12260068068 when passing on information.”

Traffic hums along the busy Bolton Road, in Ashton-in-Makerfield, where neat front gardens and clipped hedges have become unlikely political battlegrounds.

The houses are dotted with Labour red and Reform turquoise placards. On one short stretch of this road, politics is no longer confined to television studios or social media feeds – it’s literally on the doorsteps.

Within a few hundred yards, five different households display five different political stickers.

Click here for our dedicated Makerfield by-election newsletter with exclusive interviews and analysis

Arguably, they serve as a microcosm of what we have seen and heard across the constituency over the past few weeks: former Labour voters switching to Reform, while some remain loyal to the party.

Neighbours disagree sharply about immigration, trust and overall decline of the country as well as the constituency. Because the stakes couldn’t be higher.

On June 18 the people in Makerfield will go to the polls in a by-election triggered by the resignation of its MP Josh Simons, clearing the way for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster.

Burnham, one of Labour’s most recognisable and popular political figures, is gambling that the personal brand he has built over nearly a decade as mayor of Greater Manchester can overcome wider frustrations with the party nationally.

For Reform UK, the contest presents an opportunity to deliver an embarrassment to Labour in one of its traditional heartlands. This constituency voted Leave in 2016 and, in a seat shaped by post-industrial decline and deep frustration with politics, Nigel Farage’s party believes it has fertile ground.

And nowhere is that contest more visible than on this stretch of Bolton Road. We often hear how the country is divided, but what about a divided street?

Can a neighbourhood stay neighbourly when the political stakes are so high?

While national parties trade blows on television or online, these neighbours still share a fence line.

The MEN managed to knock on four of the five semi-detached houses to find out the answer to that question.

One house stands out immediately. Behind an immaculately kept garden – with trimmed hedges and colourful flower beds that give the place an almost stately feel – a large turquoise Reform banner flutters atop a flag pole.

The Reform “flag flier” is 79-year-old Albert Bretherton. A retired haulier, he says one reason for putting up the banner was practical: to stop campaigners knocking at the door.

But it’s also an act of political defiance.

“All our friends are just fed up with Labour” he says. But a lot of people don’t want to admit they’re voting Reform, because “they’re frightened of getting the racist card chucked at them,” says Albert.

Like many people I spoke to across Makerfield, Albert is a disillusioned former Labour voter, frustrated about immigration, policing, crime and what he sees as Labour abandoning working people.

“Look at the government we’ve got now,” he says. “I predicted what would happen when Labour got in. I knew they would take off them who saved, and got a pension, and give it to them what don’t want to work. They’re Labour’s main policies.”

In some ways, the Reform banner could be construed as a red rag – or turquoise in this instance – to a bull.

But Albert insists there have been no issues with the neighbours “Oh no, no, everybody’s entitled to their opinion,” he says.

He remains critical of Andy Burnham’s record, particularly questioning the efficiency of the public transport policies and urban regeneration projects.

But immigration comes up repeatedly. “I don’t mind immigration but it should be done in a fair way. People should apply and not come on a boat and come to the front of the queue.”

He claims some of the neighbours are only voting for Andy Burnham because “they’re retired and have a house in Spain. [Burnham] wants to go back into the EU.”

Albert doesn’t agree with Josh Simons stepping down as MP and clearing the path for Burnham.

“That’s why they brought Andy in by the back door by the way. I think that’s a bit naughty isn’t it,” he says.

He admits that he liked Josh – “He was alright” – but insists he shouldn’t have stood down.

As for Burnham, he adds: “Since he’s been in Manchester he’s never been back here. He’s a career guy isn’t he?”

A few doors down, one house is bearing multiple Labour placards, featuring the slogan ‘Vote Andy For Us’ alongside an avatar of the Greater Manchester mayor.

The hardcore Burnham fan in this house is a 19-year-old man, who declines to be named.

“I think he’s a great guy, he’s local,” he tells me. He’s voting for Labour because “they’re better than Reform”.

He brings up Rob Kenyon’s old social media posts, adding: “He’s clearly sexist isn’t he?”

The teen says he had an altercation on the street with Reform while they were out canvassing.

This was shortly after Nigel Farage’s visit to Chapo’s at The Caledonian across the road. The Reform UK leader was visiting the pub as part of the party’s ‘Save Our Pubs’ campaign.

“I saw the candidate, Rob Kenyon. I just pulled over in my car, rolled down the window and called him an aristocrat,” the young man continues. “They started taking pictures and said they’d get me done for a Public Order offence.”

Why did he do that?

“Nigel Farage is a Tory at the end of the day and he’s an aristocrat,” he replies.

Reform told the MEN it has no recollection of this happening.

Apart from that, the man insists that conversations with his neighbours are more cordial.

“I do have some conversations with the neighbours. They’re not bothered, we get along,” he says.

Asked about Reform voters, he adds: “I think people are focused on immigration but what’s the problem? I don’t see a problem. I think it’s great for the economy.”

Voting for Labour seems to be in his blood. His parents are voting for Burnham and his granddad “used to go around with a megaphone screaming ‘vote Labour’ back in the 80s,” he says.

For him, Labour identifies problems and implements change, even if Keir Starmer’s performance hasn’t been perfect. Next door the contrast couldn’t be more stark

Engineer Andrew, who declines to give his surname, is Albert’s son-in-law.

He makes no secret of his voting for Reform, with two turquoise placards on his property.

“It’s mainly because we don’t like Keir Starmer,” he tells the MEN. “I want to get rid of him, he’s useless. It’s everything.”

Nigel Farage, on the other hand, is a “good communicator. All the things he stands for is more or less what we stand for,” says Andrew. “We’re working people and we get taxed far too much.”

Reform’s candidate, Robert Kenyon, has faced criticism over previous online comments about various issues, including his position on Brexit, abortion and sexist remarks about women. But Andrew dismisses this as Labour “spin”.

He dislikes Andy Burnham, describing him as “Keir Starmer part two”.

Immigration is one of the main concerns, and says the country is letting in too many people. But he rejects the label of “far right”, describing himself and his partner as “concerned people,” adding: “I’m not racist. My partner’s not racist. We’ve got friends from different religions and that. It’s not a problem.”

For Andrew, the window signs also serve a practical purpose. Since he put the signs up, he’s had no door knocks from any of the parties.

When asked if the different political views cause any tensions on the doorsteps, he gestures towards the neighbours and jokes: “I might not take her parcels in anymore.”

Next door to him, Mike Brumskill has put up a Labour placard because he feared people would assume the Reform sign, on the neighbour’s hedge, was on his house and might present him as a target.

He’s put up Andy Burnham stickers in the window. “I just think he’s a very genuine man, I think he’s got a moral compass,” he tells me. “He’s set himself apart from normal politicians.”

Citing Burnham’s record, including campaigning for the families of Hillsborough and as Health Secretary, he believes “nobody but Andy Burnham would have a chance of beating Reform around here.”

Farage’s vote share has been dented slightly by newcomer Restore, whose candidate, Rebecca Shepherd, is polling at seven percent in her party’s first parliamentary contest.

For that reason, Mike is “so glad” that Restore is “going to take away a chunk of the Reform vote and weaken them.”

Advertisement

A retired police officer and used to putting down riots and disorders, Mike expresses deep alarm over Nigel Farage’s rhetoric.

“I’ll be totally honest with you. I see Nigel Farage as someone like [Oswald] Mosley in the 1930s,” he says. “I really, really am scared of the community tensions.”

Like the 19-year-old Labour voter, Mike brings up Rob Kenyon’s “misogynistic” social media posts.

“I like to think of myself as a decent man and I find him abhorrent,” he continues. “I’ve got three daughters, a wife and granddaughters and I wouldn’t want that man anywhere near politics and power.

“That level of misogyny offends me as a man. My wife was horrified when she saw that and I don’t blame her.

“He’s got the potential to go to Parliament and he’s supposed to represent women. And if you’ve got that contempt… you know I just don’t understand that as a man.”

Yet, despite these sharp divides, Mike remains committed to his community.

“I love my neighbours, they’re really lovely decent people,” he says. “I even love the fella who’s flying the Reform flag. Everyone’s entitled to their opinion.”

Nonetheless, he struggles to understand “how anyone can even contemplate voting for Reform.”

Whichever way Makerfield votes on June 18, the striking thing is that despite all the different political views, people still manage to live side by side. They’ve managed to do something that national politicians increasingly struggle with – disagreeing fiercely without falling apart.

After the by-election the placards will come down. Some will wake up to the results feeling disappointed, others vindicated.

But the people of Bolton Road – and Makerfield overall – will have to find a way to live with the results.

President Donald Trump has compared the UFC structure being built at the White House to the Eiffel Tower and says he may “never, ever take it down”.

The UFC is set to host an unprecedented show on the South Lawn of the home of the United States’ leader in Washington DC on 14 June, to mark 250 years of American independence.

Construction has started, with workers assembling domed arches over a staging area which will become the octagon.

Trump says he may choose to leave the arena standing because it is “attractive to a lot of people”, like when Paris decided to keep the Eiffel Tower.

The famous structure, built in 1889 as part of the World’s Fair to celebrate 100 years of the French Revolution, was planned to be taken down 20 years later before French authorities decided to keep it.

“Many don’t know that it was supposed to be taken down immediately after the World’s Fair,” Trump said on Tiktok.

“They said ‘you know, we sort of like it, let’s leave it up a little longer’. And then they said ‘let’s leave it longer and longer’ and they never took it down.

“We’re building something in front of the White House that’s quite attractive to a lot of people. And I’m looking at it and maybe we’ll never, ever take it down.”

The proposal, which will be considered by North Yorkshire Council’s Richmond area planning committee on Wednesday, would see the restaurant built on a parcel of grassland immediately north of the main Scotch Corner roundabout.

The scheme includes a drive-thru restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, a children’s play area, toilets and parking for 55 vehicles.

The location of the proposed McDonalds restaurant at Scotch Corner. Photo: Google.

Four electric vehicle charging points would be installed within the car park, with infrastructure in place to allow a further eight bays to be connected in the future.

In addition, outline permission is being sought for a dedicated electric vehicle charging facility featuring up to 20 charging bays on land to the north of the restaurant.

Supporting documents say this would double the number of publicly available EV chargers in Richmondshire at present.

Planning officers have recommended approval of both elements of the application, subject to conditions and a legal agreement covering highway improvements, biodiversity measures and travel plan monitoring.

The proposed restaurant would operate 24 hours a day and is expected to create around 120 jobs, equating to around 82 full-time positions.

The site sits between the A1(M) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) testing facility and would be accessed via an existing junction on the A6055.

Improvements to the junction, pedestrian routes and cycle access are included as part of the development.

Planning officers concluded the scheme would provide significant economic benefits and is appropriately located close to the strategic road network.

A report to councillors states that although the development would result in the loss of less than one hectare of Grade 3 agricultural land, the impact is considered acceptable due to the site’s location and limited agricultural value.

The application has attracted objections from local parish councils, residents and businesses.

Concerns raised include increased traffic congestion, road safety, litter, the loss of greenfield land and the cumulative impact of further development around Scotch Corner.

In its response, Moulton Parish Meeting said a strategic assessment of the many planning applications in the pipeline for the Scotch Corner area was required before any further schemes were approved.

It added: “There is already a choice of fast food outlets, either planned or existing at Scotch Corner or nearby at the approved Road Chef at Catterick Central and Barton Truckstop.

“Any further development is unnecessary.”

However, both National Highways and North Yorkshire Council’s highways officers have withdrawn their initial concerns following amendments to the scheme and have raised no objections, subject to conditions.

The development would also include extensive landscaping, with 14 new trees, wildflower grassland and additional screening planting designed to soften the appearance of the site and enhance biodiversity.

Russia’s ‘good’ outcome for the next 25 years would involve the use of nuclear weapons, according to a report.

The country’s annual economic forum kicked off on Wednesday in St Petersburg, attended by Vladimir Putin and business heavyweights from across the globe.

Presenting at the conference was Konstantin Malofeev, founder of the Russian Orthodox media network Tsargrad, who presented a ‘Russia 2050’ report with three possible scenarios.

The ‘good’ scenario involves Russia ‘obtaining a clear image of victory in the ideological war’ using nuclear weapons, annexing Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Odesa, Kharkiv ‘and so on,’ and seeing the European Union crumble.

A ‘bad’ scenario would see Russia lose its war in Ukraine and be ‘colonised’ by 2050, while an ‘inertial’ result would end in ‘American and Chinese hegemony’ and would see Russia use nuclear weapons by 2036.

Malofeev has vocally supported the annexation of Crimea and has funded efforts to destabilise Ukraine, including Russia’s 2014 Donbas operation.

He is sanctioned by the UK for ‘acting in support of the destabilisation of Eastern Ukraine’, and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) says he has faced a criminal investigation into his alleged support to separatists in the region.

Malofeev was joined onstage by Alexander Dugin, co-author of the report who is also sanctioned by the UK, US and EU.

The FCDO says he ‘is or has been involved in destabilising Ukraine by being responsible for, engaging in, providing support for, or promoting any policy or action which destabilises Ukraine or undermines or threatens the territorial integrity, sovereignty or independence of Ukraine.’

Dugin told audiences at the summit that the unpublished report had already been presented at the Russian Ministry of Defence’s General Staff Academy.

It comes after St Petersburg was attacked in a Ukrainian drone strike the night before the economic forum began.

The city’s governor, Alexander Beglov, said ‘infrastructure objects’ in three districts of the city had been hit on Wednesday.

Meanwhile Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the drones had struck several ‘military targets’, including the Petersburg Oil Terminal ‘which serves the war’ and ‘an enterprise in the Tambov region involved in the production of Russian weapons’.

In a post to X, he said: ‘Important facilities on Russian territory were hit last night.

‘I thank our warriors for their precision. Ukraine’s plan for long-range sanctions is being implemented exactly as needed to bring peace closer. Glory to Ukraine!’

Beglov confirmed in a post on Telegram that clean-up efforts are underway and that several people had been injured, but there were no fatalities as a result of last night’s strike.

MORE: British teenager sanctioned by Russia ‘won’t be intimidated’ by Putin

MORE: How your old fave Watermelon Ice vape became a secret weapon on the battlefield

MORE: Putin loses 1,000 troops a day in fresh wave of Ukraine AI drone strikes

Ask an incoming tourist what the country’s big visitor draws are, and they may well say Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Stonehenge, Thorpe Park or even Legoland

The best attractions in England this year have been crowned, and the winners may come as something of a surprise.

Ask an incoming tourist what the country’s big visitor draws are, and they may well say Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Stonehenge or even Legoland.

It’s unlikely that they’ll mention the winner of Visit England’s Large Visitor Attraction of the Year, which went to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park in Suffolk.

The victory comes off the back of a win at the Visitor Attraction of the Year at the 2026 Suffolk and Norfolk Tourism Awards, so Jimmy’s is clearly having a good year.

The wildlife park is owned by TV star and conservationist Jimmy Doherty, who has presented programmes on both Channel 4 and the BBC. He is best known for the show Jimmy’s Farm, which details the operation of the Essex Pig Company that he and his wife Michaela Furney own in Suffolk.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Advertisement

The park aims to be a centre of excellence for British rare breeds while also housing animals like camels, primates, tapirs and crocodiles. Lions and a tiger were added as recently as October 2025.

The real draw that put the place on the map was the acquisition of polar bears. Jimmy’s Farm built Europe’s largest facility for the species, called “the Lost Lands of the Tundra,” housing rescue polar bears alongside brown bears, Arctic foxes, grey wolves, reindeer and red-breasted geese. The bears are even visible from the train window on the London–Ipswich line.

Getting from London to Ipswich by train takes about an hour from Liverpool Street, but the lack of a bus from Ipswich station to the park is an issue some have confronted. Most visitors end up getting a taxi, which costs around £13 each way. The zoo itself is only part of the site; there are also shops and a restaurant in the farm area, and you can leave and re-enter the zoo with your receipt.

Jimmy’s Farm has 1,800 five star reviews on Tripadvisor, out of 2,400 in total.

“What a great day out, a well thought out place, extremely conducive and focused on giving the animals the best possible environment to flourish and feel comfortable in their habitat,” one happy customer wrote.

“Some beautiful woodland walks, plenty of things to do for children aside from seeing the animals, beautifully situated in the centre of the park, away from the majority of animals. Plenty of choice around the park for eating, whether you want a snack or something more substantial, as well as numerous picnic areas if you bring your own food.”

The winners were announced at the annual event hosted by journalist and broadcaster Sean Fletcher on 3 June at Aerospace Bristol.

Coming in second place in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year rankings was Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire, where visitors can learn about the code-breaking geniuses who were instrumental in helping the Allied Forces win WWII.

It is clearly a year for farms. The bronze award was handed to Attwell Farm Park in Worcestershire, a family-run petting farm where Pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and ducks are all ready to nibble some feed from your hand.

Gold, Silver and Bronze were awarded in 17 categories selected from 21 local awards. They ranged from ‘Regenerative Tourism Award’ to ‘Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award’ and from ‘New Tourism Business of the Year’ to ‘Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year’.

Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “I am delighted to see so many businesses across England being recognised for their outstanding work, helping to make people’s stays as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

“From hotels and pubs to glamping, museums and experiences, these awards are a real testament to those striving to ensure our tourism industry remains outstanding. Our upcoming Visitor Economy Growth Strategy will provide a clear, long-term plan to unlock investment, back businesses and showcase more of our great destinations to the world.”

VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes added: “The awards are a celebration of England’s outstanding tourism industry and an opportunity to highlight the excellence that makes it world-leading.

“From a hands-on, traditional blacksmith’s visitor experience in the Midlands and a castle hotel and spa set in one of our national parks to accessible and inclusive holidays, these awards showcase the exceptional quality, unparalleled customer service and innovation that drive our industry.

“I congratulate the wonderful range of first-class award recipients, all of whom are so passionate about tourism. They are all deserving winners.”

VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 winners

Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award:

Gold: Hoe Grange Holidays(opens in a new tab), Peak District, Derbyshire

Silver: Nottingham Playhouse(opens in a new tab), Nottingham

Bronze: Attwell Farm Park(opens in a new tab), Worcestershire

B&B and Guest House of the Year:

Gold: MonkBridge House(opens in a new tab), York

Silver: One Drake Road and Apartments(opens in a new tab), Devon

Bronze: Holly Lodge Boutique Bed & Breakfast(opens in a new tab), Norfolk

Business Events Venue of the Year:

Gold: Warwick Conferences(opens in a new tab), Warwick

Silver: Nottingham Venues(opens in a new tab), Nottingham

Bronze: The Catalyst(opens in a new tab), Newcastle

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year:

Gold: Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa(opens in a new tab), Devon

Silver: Bredon View Glamping Retreats(opens in a new tab), Worcestershire

Bronze: Kaya at Blackhill Farm(opens in a new tab), Herefordshire

Experience of the Year:

Gold: Blacksmithing Experience Days(opens in a new tab), Oldfield Forge, Herefordshire

Silver: The Wizard Walk of York(opens in a new tab), York

Bronze: Make Your Own Distilled Spirit(opens in a new tab), Shed One Distillery, Cumbria

International Tourism Award:

Gold: The Beatles Story(opens in a new tab), Liverpool

Silver: Castle Howard(opens in a new tab), York

Bronze: Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves(opens in a new tab), Devon

Large Hotel of the Year:

Gold: Bovey Castle(opens in a new tab), Devon

Silver: Watergate Bay Hotel(opens in a new tab), Cornwall

Bronze: The Grand Brighton(opens in a new tab), Brighton

Large Visitor Attraction of the Year:

Gold: Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park(opens in a new tab), Suffolk

Silver: Bletchley Park(opens in a new tab), Buckinghamshire

Bronze: Attwell Farm Park(opens in a new tab), Worcestershire

New Tourism Business of the Year:

Gold: One Acre Wood(opens in a new tab), Herefordshire

Silver: The Story of Emily(opens in a new tab), Cornwall

Bronze: Flora and Fauna Exmoor(opens in a new tab), Somerset

Pub of the Year:

Gold: The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest(opens in a new tab), Northumberland

Silver: The Tickled Trout, Barlow(opens in a new tab), Derbyshire

Bronze: The Tollemache Arms(opens in a new tab), Northamptonshire

Regenerative Tourism Award:

Gold: Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton(opens in a new tab), Lancashire

Silver: Gladwins Farm – Self Catering Holiday Cottages(opens in a new tab), Suffolk

Bronze: Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre(opens in a new tab), Birmingham

Self-Catering Accommodation of the Year:

Gold: Bosinver Farm Cottages(opens in a new tab), Cornwall

Silver: Cedar Hollow @ The Oaks(opens in a new tab), Oxfordshire

Bronze: Rowley Farm Holidays(opens in a new tab), Worcestershire

Small Hotel of the Year, sponsored by Booking.com:

Gold: The Tempus(opens in a new tab), Northumberland

Silver: Peak Edge Hotel(opens in a new tab), Derbyshire

Bronze: Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant(opens in a new tab), Cumbria

Small Visitor Attraction of the Year:

Gold: Morgan Experience(opens in a new tab), Worcestershire

Silver: Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery(opens in a new tab), Northumberland

Bronze: National Justice Museum(opens in a new tab), Nottinghamshire

Taste of England Award:

Gold: Carriages Restaurant(opens in a new tab), Herefordshire

Silver: Eight at Gazegill by Doug Crampton(opens in a new tab), Lancashire

Bronze: Blackfriars Restaurant(opens in a new tab), Newcastle

Unsung Hero Award:

Gold: Jayne Chapman – Tatton Park(opens in a new tab), Cheshire

Silver: Viv Smith – National Stone Centre(opens in a new tab), Derbyshire

Bronze: Andy Black – Horses and Ponies Protection Association(opens in a new tab), Lancashire

On Thursday morning, Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court heard that the officer remains in hospital, and is “seriously unwell”, having sustained a broken wrist, a crush injury to a leg which they cannot put weight on, injuries to the head, cuts and abrasions, and is in “a great deal of pain”.