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Games Inbox: Does the Nintendo Switch 2 have enough good games?

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Games Inbox: Does the Nintendo Switch 2 have enough good games?
Pokémon Pokopia is good! (The Pokémon Company)

The Thursday letters page still has a very mixed opinion about the recent Nintendo Direct, as a reader feels sorry for the head of Xbox.

Games Inbox is a collection of our readers’ letters, comments, and opinions. To join in with the discussions yourself email gamecentral@metro.co.uk

The wrong games
I’m not surprised to see the mixed reaction the Nintendo Direct, including from GC, as personally I thought it was a very weak one. On paper there was lots of games, but very few from Nintendo themselves and almost no surprises. Personally, I’d say that Fire Emblem, Xenoblade, Splatoon, and Wii Sports were amongst the least interesting Nintendo franchises, even if they’re probably a lot more popular in Japan.

The problem, as has been said, that there’s nothing else to go with them. Usually you’d get those games and something more mainstream, now you’re just getting them. Whether Nintendo thinks its made a mistake or not is a question I doubt we’ll ever get answered but they certainly don’t seem to be in a hurry to change their approach.

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But, and this is something GC picked up, it’s the poor staging of the Direct that surprised me. Opening with Rhythm Paradise Groove was a terrible idea and so was only showing five seconds of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time.

With the price rise coming up I think there’s a real question as to whether the Switch 2 has enough good games to justify the purchase, especially when you’re talking about Nintendo games, and despite all the games at the Direct I don’t think any of them are most people’s idea of a system seller.
Zeiss

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Fair summary
Quite a range of opinions on the latest Nintendo Direct. I think if you only own a Switch 2 it was probably a pretty exciting show, but if you thought that such a lengthy Direct would see a strong focus on first party games then it’s hard to see it as anything other than a mild disappointment.

Ports, remasters, more ports, Wii Sports… Splatoon Raiders looked like it should be fun, and I’m sure some people will be buzzing at the announcement of a new Xenoblade game (my backlog in that particular series already stretches back to the Wii).

The Zelda: Ocarina Of Time tease was disappointingly short, but I suppose from Nintendo’s point of view that’s just the initial announcement. Overall, I thought it was jam-packed with content but not a huge amount that I’m really interested in. In contrast, the PlayStation and Xbox shows had fewer games but did a better job of showing off their big hitters in my opinion.
Magnumstache

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Impossible mission
I’m sure she’s being paid a ridiculous salary but I still kind of feel sorry for the boss of Xbox. Talk about being handed a poisoned chalice. I don’t how on earth she’s supposed to turn around Xbox considering not only is it practically dead as a hardware business, but the entire console business is in danger of extinction – as she seems to realise.

We all said Phil Spencer should’ve gone years ago and the situation Xbox is in at the moment shows exactly why. All he was doing was digging a deeper hole and now someone else has got to find a way out and it may be impossible. It’s grim times, given how many companies Xbox owns.
Korbie

Email your comments to: gamecentral@metro.co.uk

Direct your anger
I thought that was one of the worst and embarrassing Nintendo Directs for a long time. There are lots of people saying that it was jam-packed and very varied and had something for everyone. But if you think about the context, it’s the big summer one, there’s about to be a massive price increase, there hasn’t been any really big first party announcements for a very long time, and not many at all for the Switch 2; it was awful.

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The majority of announcements were ports or games for very young children. It’s a slight joke there has yet to be a new 3D Mario or a new Metroid and slightly ridiculous that the new Zelda is a remake of an old game. For me personally, there was nothing that was exciting and it seemed like half the games had already been announced in the PlayStation State of Play or Summer Game Fest.

It was particularly telling that it started off with a rhythm game and then proceeded to spend a disproportionate amount of time on that. And then it seemingly didn’t get any better.

I was really looking forward to it. I came away actually quite angry, which I know sounds very irrational.
John

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Consumer doubt
I don’t know who Microsoft is trying to fool with this Gears Of War: E-Day exclusivity. They’re caught uploading a video with the PlayStation 5 version in it and then they pretend they never intended to make it. Whatever.

We’re all used to Xbox being economical with the truth, but this latest nonsense just makes them look incompetent. Especially the bit about people buying an Xbox console to play Gears Of War. People haven’t cared about the franchise for 15 years and I don’t think remaking the same game again, except this time they’re in civvies, is going to push anyone over the edge.
Boz

Regular releases
Got to say, I personally felt the Nintendo Direct was a bit of a disappointment. I do think however, that it’s not entirely clear cut as to whether or not Nintendo are dropping the ball at the moment.

On the one hand, whilst people lament the lack of triple-A exclusives that really showcase the Switch 2, Nintendo will still by the end of 2026 have released Pokémon Pokopia, Yoshi And The Mysterious Book, Nintendo Switch Sport Resort, a new Fire Emblem game, a new Splatoon game, and a remake of a beloved Zelda game. A new exclusive every two months on average isn’t bad output.

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However, let’s face it, what people really want is a new mainline 3D Mario or Zelda game. The issue is that games take so long to make these days that we might only get one mainline Mario and Zelda game every decade. Surely, though, a Mario 3D must be well underway by this point, given it’s nearly nine years since Super Mario Odyssey?

Normally I’m not a fan of companies making an announcement years before release date (I’m looking at you The Elder Scrolls 6). However, given the recent scrutiny perhaps some kind of announcement even just a very brief teaser might’ve resulted in some good will.

I think for me the most disappointing part of the direct was the Zelda:Ocarina of time reveal. Despite being a teenager when released I’ve never played the original but Breath of the Wild is my favourite game of all time and I’m really keen to play earlier Zelda games. The reveal though was so lacklustre. I’d really hoped some gamplay would be shown even if only a few seconds.

I do think some of the issues Nintendo are having at the moment are overblown. You only have to look at companies like Rockstar, Naughty Dog, and CD Projekt Red to see how long the gaps between major releases are. The trouble is Nintendo no longer have as much scope to rely on plugging the gaps with re-releases and remasters like they did with the original Switch and need to come up with ideas for new or existing franchises that aren’t their more established IP.

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As a Switch 2 owner I’m satisfied so far, but I do play most third party games on the Switch 2, as I’m happy to make accommodations to play games in handheld mode. So I recognise that some Switch 2 owners are understandably a bit more negative.
matc7884

Not-so-super bros.
I always try to keep letters as concise as possible. No need to ramble on and over analyse everything.

As I said previously, there’s never been a better time to be a gamer but, blimey, that was a poor show from Mr Nintendo. Load of guff, bro’!
Paul C.

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Nintendo Fest
A bit late to the party, but I thought it was a good, not great, Nintendo Direct. I liked Star Fox getting a demo, as I’ve never played the original and the graphics look great but it’s been a long time since I’ve played an on-rails shooter, so I’m not sure if I’d get on with it.

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Happy the Zelda: Ocarina Of Time remake rumour was true but, like many, I would’ve liked to see some actual gameplay of it, especially with it releasing this year.

The thing that impressed me most was the number of impressive looking ports of current gen games. Kingdom Hearts 4 on release day, Lies Of P, Lords Of The Fallen 2, and Devil May Cry 5 (a PlayStation 4 game but a very good looking one) all looked visually impressive, even if they’re not the sort of games I go to.

These and Resident Evil Requiem, 007 First Light, and Lego Batman: Legacy Of The Dark Knight (when the latter two are released), suggest the Switch 2 is capable of delivering high-end current gen games.

My hope is that other developers take note because I was concerned how few games from Summer Game Fest, the PlayStation State of Play, and Xbox Showcase seemed to be coming to Switch 2. Maybe I’m misremembering, but Star Wars Zero Company sticks out as one that lacked a Switch 2 release, which was surprising because it doesn’t look that demanding (although I’m not a developer, so maybe it is) and I’d imagine the audience is there for it on Switch 2.
J-Sco

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GC: It’s a shame because mouse controls would likely suit it well, but that game has been in development for a long time – long before the Switch 2 was announced – and the team probably wasn’t big enough to work on that as well.

Inbox also-rans
As a follow up to my letter – I mean in gaming terms they are doing poorly. Business is obviously booming for Nintendo.
Simon

I have to admit, the idea of playing Resident Evil 4 remake on the go has me very tempted to double dip on Switch 2.
Cleng

Email your comments to: gamecentral@metro.co.uk

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The small print
New Inbox updates appear every weekday morning, with special Hot Topic Inboxes at the weekend. Readers’ letters are used on merit and may be edited for length and content.

You can also submit your own 500 to 600-word Reader’s Feature at any time via email or our Submit Stuff page, which if used will be shown in the next available weekend slot.

You can also leave your comments below and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter.

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NATO scrambles warplanes during huge Russian attack on Ukraine – as missile lands in Poland creating 33ft crater

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First responders operate at a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30, 2026, amid the Russian invasion in Ukraine

NATO scrambled warplanes during a huge Russian attack on Ukraine, as a missile landed in Poland creating a 33ft crater.

Polish police found the crater and scattered debris in a field near the village of Tarnawa-Kolonia in the Lublin province, following reports of an explosion. 

The missile disappeared from army radars tracking it in domestic airspace during Russian strikes on Ukraine, authorities said on Thursday.

Poland scrambled fighter jets to secure its airspace after Russian air strikes killed at least 13 in neighbouring Ukraine, including one in Kyiv, the capital, in attacks that spread as far as the western city of Lviv.

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‘An unidentified object moving westward was detected in Polish airspace,’ the operational command of the armed forces said on X, adding that it disappeared from radars soon after the sighting at 3.40am.

A Mi-24 helicopter that went to the object’s last location to verify and confirm the radar data pinpointed the likely crash site, it added.

Later, Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the object was a missile, saying: ‘From the early morning hours, we have all been very strongly mobilised. 

‘During Russia’s massive missile attack on Ukraine, a serious incident also occurred in Poland. A missile fell in the village of Tarnowa-Kolonia. Fortunately, there are no reports of casualties or damage.’

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First responders operate at a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30, 2026, amid the Russian invasion in Ukraine

Local residents react outside a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30

Local residents react outside a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30

First responders escort a wounded local resident (C) outside a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30

First responders escort a wounded local resident (C) outside a residential building partially destroyed as a result of Russian missile strikes in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on July 30 

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Ukraine’s foreign ministry said a Russian cruise missile had ‘crossed into Poland’ as part an attack on Ukraine, ‘violating NATO airspace’.

The missile, which Ukraine identified as a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile, landed around 1.2 miles from the nearest buildings.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow had launched more than 70 missiles and over 280 drones at the country overnight. 

One person was killed and two more injured in the capital, emergency services said, with six more, including two children, killed in the regions ​of Dnipropetrovsk and Poltava.

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In Zelensky’s hometown, the central city of Kryvyi Rih, two girls aged 5 and 12 were among ⁠six killed, with eight injured in what Oleksandr Vilkul, the city’s defence council head, said was a direct strike by a Russian Iskander-M ballistic missile.

‘A dark ​night,’ Vilkul said on Telegram, adding that the missile, launched from Russia’s Voronezh region, struck the home of a large family, and warned the death toll could ​increase as emergency workers clear away rubble. 

Earlier, Zelensky had warned a massive Russian attack was likely, saying the safety of Ukrainians depended on the willingness of allies to provide anti-missile defences.

‘It is important that our partners ​fully understand what is happening and that the protection of people’s lives depends directly on their willingness,’ Zelensky wrote on Telegram.

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Russia’s defence ministry said on Thursday ​its forces struck what it called military facilities across Ukraine, in areas from the capital Kyiv to Lviv and Dnipropetrovsk, as well as three cargo ships. 

The attacks come as Zelensky returns from the United States, where he said President Donald Trump agreed to give Ukraine licences for Patriot missiles. 

A man reacts near an apartment building hit by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Lviv, Ukraine July 30

A man reacts near an apartment building hit by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Lviv, Ukraine July 30 

A woman reacts near an apartment building hit by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Lviv, Ukraine July 30

A woman reacts near an apartment building hit by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Lviv, Ukraine July 30

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Smoke rises as firefighters work to extinguish a fire at Wildberries logistics hub following a Ukrainian drone attack in the Ryazan region of Russia on July 29

Smoke rises as firefighters work to extinguish a fire at Wildberries logistics hub following a Ukrainian drone attack in the Ryazan region of Russia on July 29

A warehouse of Russian top online retailer Wildberries caught fire in the western city of Penza after Ukraine’s drone attack, regional governor Oleg ​Melnichenko said on Telegram. 

One person was injured and ​about 200 people evacuated from the ⁠site, he added, just a day after the company, which has become a frequent target of Ukraine’s attacks, evacuated another facility in central Russia. 

Another of its facilities, in Sarapul in Russia’s Udmurtia region, also caught fire after a drone attack, the company ​said separately on Thursday. 

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Its losses pile on the pain for ordinary Russians, some of whom have made online sales their main ​source of income, as ⁠Ukraine continues hitting energy facilities and refineries, deepening the fuel crisis in the world’s largest country by area. 

Drone strikes have damaged nearly a dozen Wildberries warehouses recently, destroying about 10 per cent of storage capacity and inflicting losses on tens of thousands of small businesses using the platform, the company and local authorities say. 

Russia’s biggest bank, Sberbank, has warned it may ⁠have to ​boost loan-loss provisions as attacks on Wildberries hit the finances of online retailers and their suppliers. 

Russia ​downed a total of 258 drones overnight, its defence ministry said. 

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That figure covers Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. 

Both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians in the war ​following Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbour in February 2022. 

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Horse Racing Betting: Best Glorious Goodwood Betting Sites

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Horse Racing Betting: Best Glorious Goodwood Betting Sites

Glorious Goodwood and the Galway Festival are dominating horse racing betting sites this week as two of the biggest meetings of the summer run concurrently.

All the UK betting sites will cover these festivals in some way, but there is plenty that separates a genuinely good racing site from a general sportsbook that happens to offer racing odds.

The Standard’s betting experts have reviewed horse racing betting sites and assessed them on racing-specific features, such as best odds guaranteed, each-way terms, money-back specials, pool betting options, and welcome offer value.

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It should be noted that the online horse racing bookmaker depends on how you bet on racing – each-way punters will prefer different things to ante-post specialists, for example.

Glorious Goodwood betting offers

Bookmaker

Offer

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Details

Tote

Money back if 2nd in any race

Get your stake back in free bets, up to £10, if your horse finishes second in any race at Goodwood or Galway.

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Betway

Bet £20, get a £5 free bet

Wager £20 or more on a Glorious Goodwood accumulator (4+ selection, minimum odds of 1/2) and get a £5 free bet.

William Hill

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Bet and get a free racing bet

Opt in and place a bet on any race at Goodwood at odds of evens or greater. William Hill will match your stake with a free racing bet.

Coral

Paid as a winner if 2nd

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Wager a maximum of £10 on any race at Goodwood and if your selection finishes 2nd by a head or less, Coral will pay out as if it’s won.

Sky Bet

Cash back on select races

Get your stake back in cash if your horse finishes second or third in one race every day of Glorious Goodwood.

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Top horse racing betting sites

Bookmaker

Welcome offer

Key feature

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Tote

Bet £10, get £20 in free bets

UK’s only pool betting operator

BOYLE Sports

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Bet £10, get £40 in free bets

Strong Irish horse racing markets and coverage

Spreadex

Bet £10, get £60 in free bets

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Spread betting operator with racing features

Bet365

Bet £10, get £30 in free bets

Early prices on UK & Irish racing

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Betfred

Bet £10, get £50 in free bets

Highest-value welcome offer on the market

Paddy Power

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Bet £10, get £5 in free bets

Extra place promotion

Coral

Bet £5, get £30 in free bets

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Coral Rewards loyalty programme

The Standard’s betting experts have selected the best horse racing betting sites on racing-specific factors and promotions, including best odds guaranteed, each-way terms, money-back specials, festival coverage, and welcome offer structure for racing bettors.

UKGC license number

54779

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App rating (iOS)

4.3/5

App rating (Android)

4.1/5

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Standard score

4.5/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

3-5 business days

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Tote is the UK’s only pool betting operator. Bettors’ stakes go into a shared pool and dividends are calculated after the event, meaning better potential returns on outsiders that fewer punters have backed than fixed-odds books.

You may not be familiar with how pool betting works – the dividend is variable, not fixed. That means the best returns come on big-field races when a well-fancied winner is beaten by an underdog.

While Tote don’t offer fixed odds on racing, they do offer a great range of racing offers, such as money back if your selection finishes second at major meetings and a free bets club where punters can secure £10 in Tote credit each week.

There’s also a Tote guarantee that means they’ll always pay the starting price on win bets. All of this can be accessed from the excellent Tote app, which ranks as one of the best betting apps in the country.

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  • UK’s only pool betting operator – genuinely unique product not available at any other bookmaker
  • Strong selection of racing offers
  • Top-rated app on both iOS and Android
  • Pool dividends are variable – you do not know your exact return until after the race
  • Payments are slower than most racing bookmakers

UKGC License

39469

App rating (iOS)

4.4/5

App rating (Android)

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4.3/5

Standard score

4.4/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

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2-5 business days

BOYLE Sports excels when it comes to racing offers and tools, with money back specials every day on a selected UK or Irish meeting. As an Irish-based bookmaker, they take pride in their Irish racing coverage, which is superior to many other racing bookmakers.

Regular racing acca bettors will find all the accumulator offers, while there’s also a free bet refund available if your horse fails to start a race.

The BOYLE Sports site isn’t always the easiest to navigate, with offers hidden away on pages and easily missed, but there’s plenty of information on those pages to help bettors make informed decisions when wagering on racing.

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  • Daily money back offers on selected meetings
  • Great range of accumulator offers
  • Welcome offer (£40 free bets) is competitive but not the highest value in this comparison
  • Bet builder product is less developed than football-focused competitors

UKGC license number

8835

App rating (iOS)

4.7/5

App rating (Android)

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4.5/5

Standard score

4.2/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

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2 hours (Visa Fast Funds only)

Spreadex are one of a handful of UK spread betting sites, with racing spread betting an option. For those unaware, spread betting carries a greater level of risk than traditional betting, with bettors able to lose more than their original stake.

However, Spreadex does offer a fixed-odds sportsbook and a good selection of racing offers, helping it to rank as one of our top racing betting sites.

The current Spreadex welcome offer gives bettors the chance to claim £60 in free bets, while racing punters can benefit from money back if second to a 33/1 shot or bigger and an odds boost on Lucky 15/31/63 bets that finish with one winner.

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Spreadex also have an excellent app, with both iOS and Android users scoring it highly, while they offer fast withdrawals when using selected methods.

  • Large welcome offer
  • Reliable and easy-to-use betting app
  • Live streaming of UK, Irish and international racing
  • Some free bets with the welcome offer tied to spread betting
  • Desktop website can be confusing

UKGC license number

55148

App rating (iOS)

4.7/5

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App rating (Android)

4.6/5

Standard score

4.4/5

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Estimated withdrawal speed

Instant (Apple Pay), 1-4 hours otherwise

If bettors are looking for the earliest prices on a race, bet365 is usually the palce to go. They consistently get their markets priced up ahead of every other racing betting site and their odds tend to be competitive as well.

There’s plenty more to like about bet365, beyond being quick off the draw, including a welcome offer that features up to £30 in free bets, all of which can be wagered on horse racing.

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Bet365 offer racing bet builders and will regularly run a winnings boost, up to 25 per cent, for those bet builders. The other unique racing feature is the Position Payout market, where punters can place a wager on a horse and the higher it finishes, the bigger the payout is.

During the big meeting, bettors can also look forward to a Super Boost, where bet365 take the price of a well-fancied horse and boost it way beyond the market average.

Best Odds Guaranteed, extra place races and live streaming are also available, either through the desktop or one of the best betting apps on the market.

  • Unique racing offers
  • Excellent all-round racing package
  • First to the market with odds
  • Acca boost promo doesn’t apply to racing
  • No racing free bets available

UKGC license number

39544

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App rating (iOS)

4.6/5

App rating (Android)

4.4/5

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Standard score

4.2/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

4-6 hours (debit card, instant bank transfer)

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Betfred have the highest-value welcome offer on the market with £50 worth of free bets available to new users. They are also one of the top racing bookmakers when it comes to offers for existing customers, with best odds guaranteed, extra place races and winnings boosts for various system bets.

Betfred also run a racing rewards scheme, where bettors earn points for placing bets that can be exchanged for tickets to meetings, including Cheltenham and Royal Ascot.

We also like Betfred for the speedy withdrawals across a variety of banking methods and the mobile-first design, which makes navigation and use on mobile devices a stress-free experience.

  • High-value welcome offer with £50 in free bets to spend on racing
  • Unique racing promotions, like Rewards 4 Racing
  • Fast withdrawals on most banking options
  • Winnings boosts for racing tied to system bets
  • App is well-rated but interface is more functional than polished

UKGC license number

39439

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App rating (iOS)

4.8/5

App rating (Android)

4.6/5

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Standard score

4/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

1-3 business days (instant via Pay By Bank)

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Paddy Power’s extra places promotion gives additional each-way places on selected races. There are also regular money-back special races spread across both the National Hunt and Flat seasons.

The Rewards Club and Wonder Wheel give bettors further opportunities to claim a free bet on a regular basis, although there are no guarantees on what prizes a punter will receive from those free-to-play games.

The odds on Paddy Power could be a little sharper, but there’s little doubt they offer a good all-round betting experience for racing.

  • Money-back specials and non-runner free bet offers are a regular feature of the racing calendar
  • Large quantity of extra places races
  • Odds on racing not always the most competitive
  • Free bets are often limited to a bet type

UKGC license

54743

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App rating (iOS)

4.6/5

App rating (Android)

4.4/5

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Standard score

4/5

Estimated withdrawal speed

Under 4 hours (Fast Funds)

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Coral is a dependable pick for racing bettors thanks to its low £5 qualifying bet. Coral also has a strong high street presence and racing heritage, highlighting why they are trusted by thousands of punters for horse racing.

There are plenty of racing-friendly offers, such as the daily rewards shaker, which includes prizes of free bets and profit boosts, while there’s a chance to own a racehorse with Coral’s Racing Club.

  • Low £5 qualifying bet for the welcome offer – accessible entry point for new racing bettors
  • Coral Racing Club offers punters the chance to own a racehorse
  • Lots of free-to-play games and prize giveaways
  • Welcome offer (£30 in free bets) is the second-lowest headline value in this comparison
  • Fewer racing-specific ongoing promotions than Betfred, Paddy Power or BOYLE Sports

How to choose a horse racing betting site

A good betting site will tick if not all of the following boxes: competitive odds, user-friendly platform, good market choice, excellent security, fast and safe payments, and top-level customer service.

Those are some of the basic requirements for a good betting site. But what about a good horse racing betting site? When seeking out those, our betting experts at The Standard look for some of the following attributes to gauge how appropriate a bookie is for a racing punter.

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Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) means bettors get the best price on a winner, be that the odds of the horse when they placed the bet, or the starting price at the beginning of the race. Not all bookmakers offer BOG, while some do it better than others.

Best Odds Guaranteed are only available on the day of the race, but while some bookmakers will offer BOG prices from 8am, for others, it won’t start before 10am. Check which horse racing betting sites offer BOG and when the offer starts each day.

Having a good selection of offers is one thing, but are they applicable to betting on racing? The best racing bookies run money-back special race, winnings boosts for successful accumulator and system bets, and offer insurance should your selection fail to start or lose by a neck.

We are also on the lookout for promotions like extra-place races, which can increase the value of a racing bet. Bookmakers who don’t offer enough of these promos, or cater too much towards betting on football and other sports, don’t make the cut.

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Nearly every bookmaker offers the same number of places for an each-way bet, depending on the number of runners. Extra-place races can increase the chances of securing a return on a wager, as can the percentage of the starting price bookies pay for an each-way bet.

More racing bookmakers offer 1/5 the starting price on an each-way, but some are still going with 1/4 the SP. That can make a big difference to regular racing bettors.

Many online racing bookmakers now carry live streaming of races. However, the quality and quantity of live streams can vary. Some bookmakers will only offer live streams on selected UK courses, others will have all UK and Irish racing.

Some will also carry international racing, providing streams on the action from Australia, the United States, France, Japan, and beyond.

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Cheltenham, the Grand National and Royal Ascot are the three big racing events of the year in the UK. Every year, some bookmakers will mark the big meetings with extra offers, more extra place races and plenty of odds boosts.

Other bookmakers will stick with the same offers they have all year round. We have a strong preference towards those bookies keen to celebrate the big festivals.

How to claim a free bet for horse racing

  1. Register an account and verify your ID – this is a UKGC requirement before you can deposit.
  2. Make a qualifying deposit via debit card or other approved payment method. Note, credit cards have been banned for UK gambling since 2020.
  3. If required, opt in to the welcome offer or use a listed promo code.
  4. Place a qualifying bet on horse racing at the minimum odds stated in the terms, typically evens or 1/2.
  5. You will receive your free bets once your qualifying bet settles, usually within 24 hours of settlement.
  6. Use your free bet tokens on racing markets before the expiry date, typically 7-30 days.

Responsible gambling on racing

All licensed horse racing betting sites are required to provide safer gambling tools as part of their licence with the UK Gambling Commission. These features are designed to help customers stay in control of their betting and may include deposit limits, loss limits, reality checks, time-outs, cooling-off periods, and self-exclusion options.

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If you enjoy betting on horse racing, it’s worth taking a few minutes to familiarise yourself with the responsible gambling tools available. Setting deposit limits or enabling regular reality check reminders can help you keep track of both your spending and the amount of time you have been betting.

Horse racing betting should always be viewed as a form of entertainment rather than a way to make money. There are no guaranteed winners, so never chase losses or bet more than you can afford in an attempt to recover previous bets. If betting stops being enjoyable, it’s time to stop.

Being aware of your betting habits is essential. Pay attention to how you feel before, during, and after placing bets. If you become concerned that horse racing betting is affecting your finances, wellbeing, or relationships, don’t hesitate to speak to someone you trust or seek professional support.

Help is available day or night through a range of specialist organisations:

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Horse racing betting sites – frequently asked questions

What are the best horse racing betting sites in the UK?

The best site depends on how you bet on horse racing. See the comparison table above to see how different best horse racing betting sites stack up against each other.

For example, Tote are the only bookmakers that provide pool betting, whilst Betfred has the highest welcome offer value and a wide range of offers.

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What is best odds guaranteed in horse racing?

Best Odds Guaranteed (sometimes called BOG) means if you take a price on a horse and the starting price (SP) is higher, the bookmaker pays you at the SP.

BOG availability varies by bookmaker and is not available at every site. Make sure to check before betting.

What does each-way mean in horse racing?

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An each-way bet is two bets in one – one on your selected horse to win, one on it to place (finish in the top positions).

The place part pays a fraction of the win odds. Both the amount of places paid and the exact fraction of the odds paid out vary both by race type and from bookmaker to bookmaker.

Which betting sites offer money back on horse racing?

Money-back specials are a common feature at UK racing bookmakers – typically a refund of your stake in free bets if your horse finishes second to the SP favourite, or a non-runner replacement.

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BetGoodwin is the UK leader for money-back specials volume, whilst Paddy Power is another site with regular money-back promotions.

Money-back specials can be a solid safety net but always be prepared to lose money when gambling, as it should not be treated as a source of income.

Are there any new horse racing betting sites?

New UKGC-licensed sites continue to launch. Newer operators are required to meet the same regulatory standards as established brands. Newer sites sometimes offer competitive welcome offers to attract customers in a crowded market. The UKGC ensures punters can trust licensed sites.

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What changed in UK gambling in January 2026?

New laws were introduced to cap wagering requirements for any sportsbook or casino bonuses at 10x. The other major change was to make it illegal to combine welcome bonuses for both sportsbooks and casino sites, with online racing bookmakers required to run separate sign-up offers.

We aim to offer every online gambler and reader of The Standard a safe and fair platform through unbiased reviews and offers from the UK’s best online gambling companies.

Gambling can be addictive, always play responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. Gambling sites have a number of tools to assist you to stay in control, including deposit limits and time outs. If you think you have a problem, advice and support is available for you now from BeGambleAware or Gamcare.

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Any offers or odds listed in this article are correct at the time of publication but are subject to change. Terms & Conditions apply to all offers.

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Morrisons’ freebie that anyone in the UK can claim until September

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The offer is running in every Morrisons store across the country with a cafe

According to research by Morrisons, almost half (48%) of parents have admitted they have been forced to skip meals entirely just to make ends meet and ensure their child does not go without during the summer holidays. Most often, breakfast is the number one thing cut from the menu.

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In an effort to help families make their money go further this summer, Morrisons is offering a free deal to everyone until September, no questions asked. Families visiting their local Morrisons Café can enjoy a free Kellogg’s Breakfast.

The deal was recently highlighted by ITV’s This Morning regular and money specialist Jordon Cox. In an Instagram post to remind families of the deal, he said: “If you’re struggling over the school summer holidays – head down to a Morrisons Cafe.

“Anyone can claim this, although the deal is focused on helping people who may be struggling to afford keeping the kids fed/entertained over the summer. So maybe only use it if you need it!”

To redeem the offer, ask for at the cafe till for a ‘Kellogg’s Breakfast’, and staff will give you the items included in the deal for free. Alternatively, people can use touch-screen ordering kiosks in certain stores with those installed, as there will be a specific option for the free breakfast.

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Matt Khan, senior trader for Morrisons Café, said: “We know that when schools close for the summer, family budgets get stretched to the absolute limit. Losing that daily routine makes it a challenging time for parents and grandparents.

“By teaming up with Kellogg’s, we want to take some of that pressure off by offering a welcoming space where families can sit down and enjoy a healthy, proper breakfast together, completely free of charge.” Andrew Ridge, social impact manager at Kellogg’s, added that the cereal company is ” incredibly proud to partner with Morrisons” to support families left feeling the pinch.

On top of the Kellogg’s Breakfast offer, Morrisons popular Kids Eat Free offer will also continue to run in all of its Cafés. This all-day offer allows families to enjoy a free meal and drink for one child aged 16 or under when they purchase an adult main meal costing over £5 from The Breakfasts and The Classics menu.

What is included in the Kellogg’s offer?

Families can take advantage of the offer at Morrisons Cafés nationwide throughout the 2026 school holidays (running from June 29 to September 6). Limited to one per person per day, Morrisons has partnered with Kellogg’s to offer a simple yet balanced breakfast option that won’t eat into a family budget this summer.

When redeeming the offer, customers receive a complete breakfast, including a portion pack of Cornflakes (24g) or Rice Krispies (22g) with milk or a milk alternative (125ml). On top of this, the offer includes a portion of fruit (usually an apple or banana).

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York Mosque member phoned police after ‘shot fired’ outside

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York Mosque member phoned police after 'shot fired' outside

Mohamad Douba said a member of the mosque “noticed suspicious activity and heard what appeared to be a shooting” in the early hours of Thursday (July 30).

“They immediately contacted the police, who attended the scene promptly,” he said. “We would like to thank our brave member of the community for their quick thinking and for immediately alerting the police.”

Mr Douba said the mosque is “grateful that no one was injured, and there have been no reports of any members of our congregation, staff, volunteers or students being harmed”.

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A police cordon remains in the area with the mosque closed “as a precaution” while officers work at the scene, he said.


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Mr Douba thanked police for “their swift response and for their continued support in ensuring the safety of our community”.

“We are cooperating fully with the authorities and will provide an update to the community once we have confirmation that it is safe to reopen,” he said. “We will inform everyone as soon as the mosque is ready to resume normal activities.

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“The safety and wellbeing of our worshippers, students, staff, volunteers and the wider community remain our highest priority.

“We kindly ask everyone to avoid speculation and to allow the police to carry out their investigation.”

He urged anyone with information about the reported incident to contact police quoting reference number 12260145924.

Police said a 44-year-old York man, described as a white UK national, was arrested following the alleged incident and remains in custody.

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Firefighters face ‘punishing conditions’ as crews attend more than 120 incidents over weekend

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Cambridgeshire Live

Firefighters were called to a record number of incidents over the last weekend

The fire service has said crews are working in ‘punishing conditions’ after a record number of incidents last weekend. Between Friday (July 24) and Monday (July 27), firefighters were called to more than 120 incidents – significantly higher than its three-year average of 94 incidents.

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Assistant chief fire officer Stuart Smith said the hot weather is putting more pressure on the service. He said: “Our crews have been worked extremely hard by the conditions over the last few days. It is common to see an increase in fires during spells of hot weather, and we do plan for this. However, the temperatures we’ve experienced, for the length of time we have, make the conditions very tough.”

Peat fires have caused a significant issue for crews. Fires like the one at the Holme Fen Nature Reserve tend to burn over several days.

Stuart added: “Peat fires present significant challenges for us, as they are often unseen, being predominantly underground. It makes not only finding and containing the fire extremely difficult, but the heat on the floor makes it very dangerous for firefighters to tackle the fire.

“Not only this, but water supplies are also often an issue, meaning we have to commit several fire engines to ensure we have enough. Our crews have been maintaining regular presence at two separate peat fires, in Whittlesey and Holme Fen. These have been especially gruelling due to the amount of incidents crews are attending and the severe heat.”

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Residents are being urged to stay fire safe. Stuart said: “We know during the school summer holidays, especially when the weather is hot like this, people want to make the most of it. We just want to highlight that everyone can do this safely just by thinking beforehand and following a few of our fire safety tips.

“Having a barbecue is a great way to get together with family and friends, but they can easily lead to a fire if people don’t follow some basic safety tips. Things like keeping the area supervised and lighting the barbecue away from fencing, buildings and garden furniture, keeping a bucket of water close by, and only disposing of the charcoal ashes once completely cooled.”

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Dawn French leads tributes after ‘brilliant’ publicist Neil Reading dies aged 56

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Dawn French leads tributes after ‘brilliant’ publicist Neil Reading dies aged 56
Tributes have flooded in for late entertainment publicist Neil Reading (Picture: PA)

Leading celebrity publicist Neil Reading, described as ‘quietly magnificent’ and a ‘one-off’, has died aged 56.

The entertainment PR to the stars, who founded Neil Reading PR,died after a short illness.

During his career, he represented a whole host of high-profile clients including comedians Dawn French, John Cleese, the late Victoria Wood, as well as John Bishop, Sir Lenny Henry, Paul McKenna and Jason Manford.

In a heartfelt tribute, the French and Saunders star said: ‘Neil Reading was a one-off, such a kind, decent, intelligent man, a proper gentleman in the old-fashioned way, quietly magnificent.’

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Sharing how they built ‘a very real and trusting friendship’, she added: ‘He has been my ally and fierce protector through so much and for so long. I don’t quite know how I’ll manage without him. Sleep tight darlin’ heart.’

Meanwhile, Manford praised him as a ‘trusted friend of almost 20 years, a confidant and one of the most loyal, noble, brilliant men I have ever known.’

Neil Reading
Reading died aged 56 after a short illness (Picture: Reading family/PA Wire)

Reading has built a well-respected reputation for himself across the TV industry since launching his agency in 1992. Neil Reading PR also launched a string of West End shows including High Society, Only Fools and Horses, and Fawlty Towers – The Play.

Bishop said: ‘Neil was a true gentleman. He was too humble to realise how much he meant to people and I know he will be greatly missed’ while McKenna called him ‘one of the finest people I’ve ever known’.

Another of his clients, Monty Python’s Cleese, called him ‘a very kind, protective, sensible and caring man, who looked after his clients with great skill’ and concluded he shall ‘miss him very much’.

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Dawn French
He represented clients like Dawn French (Picture: PA Wire)
Jason Manford
Jason Manford said he was ‘one of the most loyal, noble, brilliant men’ (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Piers Morgan shared that it was ‘incredibly sad news’. He continued; ‘Neil was a a brilliant PR man, one of the very best in the business who really cared about his clients.

‘He was also fantastic fun, I had so many great times with him over the years. My deepest condolences to all his family.’

‘Saddened to hear that Neil Reading has died, shockingly young, much love to his wife and daughter – he was so much more than a “PR guru” he cared so much about his clients and was decent and honest, a gentleman and a friend,’ BBC contributor David Yelland echoed.

‘Neil Reading was honest, hard working, loyal and a true professional. He was also great fun. Most of all he was devoted to his family,’ Keir Simmons shared.

Fellow PR man Neil Wallis called him ‘a brilliant, true, loyal, brave & wonderful friend’, sharing it was ‘so so sad. I’m bereft, as will be anyone who had the joy of knowing him & being his friend.’

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He is survived by his wife Claire and daughter Rosa.

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Japan earthquake: Death toll rises to 34 as rescuers keep searching through extreme heat

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Rescue workers in overalls stand on top of a collapsed house

The number of people who have died after a powerful earthquake hit southwestern Japan has risen to 34, authorities in Kumamoto prefecture said on Thursday.

Rescuers are still working to find survivors after the magnitude 6.8 earthquake hit Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu island on Tuesday, causing widespread damage to houses and power lines.

Several people died after part of a shopping centre collapsed and an explosion ripped through the mall about an hour later.

Thousands of displaced residents are now staying in evacuation centres – though the challenge is to keep them cool and hydrated as the region battles sweltering heat.

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Temperatures could reach 39C in the prefecture in the coming days, according to forecasts, with officials urging survivors and rescuers to take precautions against heatstroke.

On Wednesday, Japan’s defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced the delivery of 300 air conditioners to Kumamoto, with 150 of the units bound for evacuation centres.

Around 9,000 displaced residents have been put up in evacuation centres, and more than 30,000 households were out of power as of Wednesday.

Yukiya Sanoue, who works at one of the centres, told the BBC that heat stroke was the biggest concern at his facility, which hosts about 1,000 people. About 30% of the people at his evacuation centre are senior citizens.

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He said their electricity and water supplies had stopped since the earthquake, and the centre had been without air conditioning until Wednesday afternoon when they received a generator.

Quite a few people are suffering from conditions similar to heatstroke, and several have been taken to hospital, he said.

More than 100 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial quake, and many have taken to sleeping in their cars for fear of further tremors.

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Knifeman who attacked and partially-blinded Salman Rushdie is convicted of terrorism and faces life behind bars

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Hadi Matar, pictured in 2025, has been found guilty of federal terrorism charges and could spend the rest of his life in prison

The man who stabbed and partially ​blinded author Salman Rushdie at a speaking event in 2022 could spend the rest of his life behind bars after being found guilty of terrorism. 

Hadi Matar, 28, already serving a 25-year prison term on state charges of attempted murder for the knife assault, faces the maximum penalty when he is sentenced on his federal conviction on November 3. 

A US District Court jury in Buffalo, New York, deliberated for only two hours before finding Matar guilty on ​all counts on Wednesday — attempting to provide material support to Lebanon’s Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah, a US-designated terrorist organisation; ⁠engaging in terrorism transcending national boundaries; and providing material support to terrorists. 

The verdict capped a trial that began last Tuesday and included prosecution testimony from ​Rushdie, 79, winner of the prestigious Booker Prize for his 1981 novel, ‘Midnight’s Children.’ 

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Neither Matar nor anyone else was called to the ​witness stand by the defence. 

At the time of the attack, Rushdie had faced threats on his life since the 1988 publication of his fourth novel, ‘The Satanic Verses.’

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, then Iran’s supreme leader, denounced the book as blasphemous, and in 1989 issued a religious edict, or fatwa, calling on Muslims to ​kill Rushdie and anyone else involved in the book’s publication.

Khomeini’s fatwa led to a multimillion-dollar bounty and several other acts of violence, ​including the 1991 murder of Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi.

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Hadi Matar, pictured in 2025, has been found guilty of federal terrorism charges and could spend the rest of his life in prison

Author Salman Rushdie, pictured in 2025, was left partially blind after Matar stabbed him more than a dozen times during a speaking event in New York in 2022

Author Salman Rushdie, pictured in 2025, was left partially blind after Matar stabbed him more than a dozen times during a speaking event in New York in 2022

This still image from video shows Hadi Matar, 24, of Fairview, N.J., at left, being escorted from the stage as people tend to author Salman Rushdie, center right, at the Chautauqua Institution, in Chautauqua, N.Y., Friday, Aug. 12, 2022

This still image from video shows Hadi Matar, 24, of Fairview, N.J., at left, being escorted from the stage as people tend to author Salman Rushdie, center right, at the Chautauqua Institution, in Chautauqua, N.Y., Friday, Aug. 12, 2022

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The Iranian government distanced itself from the fatwa in 1998. But the edict was endorsed ‌in 2006 by Hezbollah’s secretary general and reaffirmed in 2017 by Khomeini’s successor, Ali Khamenei, according to the US Attorney’s Office.

According to evidence presented at his trial, Matar spent more than a year researching the fatwa before attempting to fulfil the edict with an attack on Rushdie while the author was on stage speaking at the Chautauqua Institution, an arts and education centre, in Mayville, New York, on August 12, 2022. 

Rushdie, who ​spent the first decade of ​the fatwa in hiding, was stabbed more ⁠than a dozen times in the head, neck, torso and left hand. 

The Indian-born author lost sight in his right eye and suffered damage to his internal organs. A second man also was wounded in ​the attack.

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Audience members rushed onto the stage to subdue the attacker.

US-born Matar, who also has ​Lebanese citizenship, lived ⁠in Fairview, New Jersey, and was found guilty of attempted murder in a New York state court in February 2025. 

He was sentenced three months later to 25 years in prison.

Rushdie, who was born into a Muslim Kashmiri family in India and later obtained British and US ⁠citizenship, spent ​most of the 1990s in seclusion under the protection of the British police ​but adopted a higher profile more than two decades ago, moving to New York City.

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Ten simple and proven ways to reduce your exposure to pollutants in your home

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Ten simple and proven ways to reduce your exposure to pollutants in your home

Modern life exposes us to a wide range of substances. While most exposures occur at low levels, researchers like me are increasingly interested in the potential cumulative effects of certain chemicals. These include synthetic compounds, indoor air pollutants and microplastics, which can disrupt our hormone and developmental systems. Scientists are still investigating the combined effects of different chemicals and the cumulative health effects they can have over time.

Consequently, many experts recommend a precautionary approach where practical and achievable. So when a chemical ingredient presents a plausible risk of serious harm, protective measures may be justified even before definitive scientific proof of harm is established.

Pollution is often perceived as “out there”. Yet the indoor environment allows more opportunities to lower exposure to chemicals that are associated within an array of diseases and conditions. These include cancer, diabetes, obesity, neurodivergence and heart disease.

Many chemicals found in household products have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and research continues to investigate their potential effects on reproductive health, development and early-onset menopause. So if you are trying to conceive, undergoing fertility treatment, pregnant, going through perimenopause or breastfeeding, these guidelines may be particularly relevant.

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The term “detox” tends to be associated with restrictive diets, expensive supplements and wellness trends that promise to cleanse the body of toxic substances. But rather than focusing on dramatic detox interventions, it’s possible to reduce unnecessary exposure to environmental contaminants by following a few simple and proven steps. Reducing environmental exposures does not require major lifestyle changes. Small, everyday habits can help create a healthier home environment.

1. Open windows

Open your windows every day, unless they face a busy road. Good ventilation can help reduce the build-up of indoor air pollutants.

2. Wash fresh produce

Wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly, especially conventionally grown produce. Rinse fresh produce with water or soak it briefly in a dilution of bicarbonate of soda to remove some pesticide residues on the surface.

3. Use mild cleaning products

Chemical cleaning products such as bleach or disinfectant were created for environments where sensitive procedures take place, such as hospitals – not our homes. Always wear gloves, open a window, and avoid breathing in the fumes directly as some cleaning products can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Where appropriate, consider using milder alternatives or water-based cleaning solutions such as vinegar on greasy surfaces.

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4. Avoid synthetic fragrances

Many synthetic fragrances, including air fresheners, plug-ins, fabric softeners, and deodorising sprays, contain chemicals such as parabens and phthalates. Studies have raised concerns about the potential health effects of long-term exposure to certain fragrance ingredients, particularly in enclosed spaces such as cars.

5. Cut down on plastics

Microplastics are well researched as causing health damage. Reduce your exposure by replacing plastic chopping boards with oiled wooden ones where practical. Buying loose fresh produce without plastic packaging also helps reduce the risk of exposure to microplastics.

6. Dust with damp cloth

Household dust can contain a mixture of particles, allergens, and environmental contaminants, simply use a damp cloth to dust regularly. A 2025 study also found that participants who vacuumed regularly reduced the accumulation of dust and other indoor pollutants.

7. Streamline your beauty routine

Consider whether a complex, multi-step beauty routine is necessary. Personal care products can contain a wide range of synthetic and toxic ingredients, and some people may benefit from simplifying their routine, particularly if they experience skin irritation or sensitivity. Coconut oil can be used as an alternative to cleanser and moisturiser, for example.

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8. Cook with care

When cooking, always switch on your cooker extractor fan, or open a window. Cooking can release particles and gases that may affect indoor air quality.

9. Store in jam jars

Avoid recycled plastics to store food as they are less regulated, especially black plastics which are commonly made from electrical waste, consequently containing chemicals that should not encounter our food, such as flame retardants. Use metal, ceramic or glass containers where possible.




À lire aussi :
Can’t face running? Have a hot bath or a sauna – research shows they offer some similar benefits


10. Help your body detox

Regular exercise and activities that promote sweating, such as sauna use, may also support some of the body’s natural processes for eliminating toxic chemicals.

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À lire aussi :
PFAS forever chemicals found in English drinking water – why are they everywhere and what are the risks?


Overall, try to be mindful of what you breathe in, apply to your skin, and consume. To help consumers choose lower-toxicity products, apps such as Detox Me and Think Dirty can be useful resources. Less is more: use fewer products, simplify your routine and be mindful of what you bring into your home. Often reducing unnecessary products can help “cleanse” your wallet, the environment and your body.

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Inside horror ‘Frankenstein’ funeral home where director let bodies pile up

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Daily Record

Police investigating Robert Bush’s Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull found 35 bodies and bags of ashes among a back room of chaos

Chilling footage released of police raid on Robert Bush’s funeral directors where 35 bodies were found

Shocking pictures show how a callous funeral director treated the deceased – and their ­grieving families – with utter contempt.

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Some 35 bodies and the ashes of more than 100 people who Robert Bush was entrusted with sat among rubbish, scrap cars, motorbikes and wine boxes.

The public-facing areas of Hull’s Legacy Independent Funeral Directors featured a perfectly respectable waiting room and chapel. But behind the appearance of order and dignity lay a back room of horror and chaos. 17 of the bodies stored there had putrefied within a dirty cold storage area, reports the Mirror.

Bush, 48, has admitted 67 offences ­including fraud charges relating to giving families the ashes of strangers, and denying 30 people a decent and proper burial.

When police were called to the scene in March 2024 he boasted about his chapel, telling them: “It seats about 70 people, it’s got a lectern, the coffin sits at the front.” He also described how they had a vicar “the same as a crematorium” and a celebrant with a slide show on a screen.

But among the clutter in the back room, bodies were stored on shelves three racks high in an “undignified manner”. As Hull Crown Court heard from the prosecutor this week: “The vast majority were uncovered and in varying states of decomposition.

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“There was a further naked body lying on a stretcher on the floor. In addition, there was one sealed wooden coffin and four sealed cardboard coffins. There was evidence of human putrefaction visible on the floor, and a mop and bucket in the corner of the room which contained further evidence of putrefaction.

“Many of the bodies had hospital ID bracelets on their wrists and/or ankles, some had biological hazard bracelets, while others had no identifying markers.”

The workshop, complete with slab and body gurney, also had a sink labelled “dirty area” full of waste and scissors. A Christmas tree was also among the rubbish.

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A single comfy chair with a footrest sat in front of a screen in another room. Disturbingly, families have said they feared Bush was watching them as they visited their loved ones.

A book about a road trip to America was also found at the premises, along with motorbikes, four ­sets of motorbike leathers and helmets hanging neatly from the wall. They appeared to have been taken better care of than the bodies stored nearby or bags of ashes lined up on the floor.

Katie Woolston, 28, went to Legacy after her fourth miscarriage and now fears her child was dumped in a bin by Bush. She said: “People’s loved ones were in the building, so why on Earth was he storing motorbikes and cars in there?”

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As well as conning around 200 families out of more than £550,000 through fraudulent pre-paid funeral plans, Bush – who spent £42,000 on holidays alone – also failed to pass on donations given by relatives and mourners to charity.

Bush’s sick deception – were uncovered by funeral directors who had been called in to collect a body for him while he was away in the US.

Gary Pickering and Steve Emmerson, of Evergreen Funeral Directors, took immediate action they were so disturbed. The prosecutor said: “Putting it simply, they were shocked by what they saw – but then saw a passing police car which they flagged down and they spoke to a PC.

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“The officer described the witnesses as being shaken as they relayed the details to him.

“Three police officers then attended Mr Bush’s premises where they found a large number of human bodies within a cold storage area of the premises.”

The prosecutor added: “There was also evidence of personal possessions with some of the deceased and other personal effects on the floor and on shelving.”

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Containers of ashes were found all over the premises, with most “stored in an undignified manner”, according to a report on the conditions in the premises.

Some were stacked chaotically on the floor where damp had caused mould to grow on the boxes. Ash was also found on desk surfaces, in empty and unidentified boxes and, in one room, strewn across the floor.

Many families had complained about a bad smell coming from the ­premises, with one man identifying mould on his gran’s coffin.

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Photographs show one room full of wood cuttings after Bush started making his own coffins out of MDF, to save money.

He will be sentenced on Friday, after harrowing victim impact statements are read to the court.

One of Bush’s victims told the Mirror the funeral director went quickly from the “consummate professional” to “Frankenstein”.

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Karen Dry said she is praying the fiend is served justice for his crimes. The mum-of-two said she may never know if she actually has her parents’ ashes.

Bush is being sentenced at Hull Crown Court for more than 65 offences spread over 12 years, with hundreds of victims and their grieving families impacted.

READ MORE: Criminal Record: Body found in suitcase in Athens and Encrochat kingpin caged

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READ MORE: Beauty boss death to be probed by watchdog after cops contacted in lead up to brutal killing

Ms Dry, of Cottingham, Hull, said: “He was charming. He was pleasant and very patient, he was a consummate professional. He had a certain pleasantness about him. He had a nice personality.

“But we realised he was actually a wolf in sheep’s clothing. The truth is you can’t DNA-test ashes. This man has affected hundreds of families. A small village full. There’s probably more Frankenstein’s elsewhere – hiding in plain sight.”

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