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‘I’ve lost three loved ones recently and this is one way I’m dealing with grief and pain’

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Belfast Live

The 33-year-old will be climbing three peaks in memory of family members he has lost to ill health

Meet Ryan McConnell who is taking on a brand-new adventure challenge in the Mourne Mountains later this year in memory of family members he has lost to ill health.

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Ryan, from Belfast, is picking a peak and pushing his limits this September to help others to mark Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke’s (NICHS) 80th anniversary of supporting and improving the lives of people across Northern Ireland.

The 33-year-old explained: “I’ve lost three loved ones over recent years. My mum, Bernie, passed away from uterine cancer. My mother-in-law, Cathy, had COPD and passed away. My dad, Paul, passed away at the start of May last year after having a few strokes.

“It has been a tough few years and I thought a good way to deal with the grief and pain would be to try and turn it into a positive, make some sort of difference, especially for a worthwhile cause.”

He added: “I was familiar with Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke and the great work it does and when I saw the Mighty Mournes Challenge it really appealed to me. It is something that will be a test of my endurance, but it will also be enjoyable and raising money to help NICHS at the same time makes it even better.”

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Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year and the Mighty Mournes Challenge is part of a series of events planned to mark this significant milestone. The charity was founded on June 14, 1946, in response to the tuberculosis crisis at that time.

Over the past eight decades the charity has adapted and evolved to meet the changing health needs of the population and today focuses on chest, heart and stroke conditions and illnesses – the leading causes of death and disability in Northern Ireland. Something Ryan sadly understands all too well.

Ryan added: “My dad and my mother-in-law were affected by stroke and chest related conditions, and these are so much more common than people might think. NICHS is currently running a campaign to highlight that 40% of our adult population are living with a chest, heart or stroke condition or illness.

“That is approximately 600,000 people which is a shocking figure. That’s also why I am taking part in the challenge, to raise awareness of how many people here are impacted by these conditions and the fact that NICHS is here to help.

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“The work NICHS does is great and very worthwhile. Really, it’s a necessity given the number of people affected by chest, heart and stroke conditions here. People need NICHS’s help and support, but the charity needs the public’s support in turn to be able to do all it does.”

The Mighty Mournes Challenge is comprised of two options- a one peak challenge up Northern Ireland’s highest mountain, Slieve Donard, and a three peak adventure taking in some of our most iconic landscapes including Slieve Donard, Slieve Commedagh and Slievenaglogh.

Talking about the challenge Ryan said: “When I saw the three peak challenge it just seemed the right option for me as I am doing this in memory of three people. I also thought about everything my mum, mother-in-law and dad went through and felt the three peaks was a more fitting tribute than the one peak option.

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“I want to put myself through a bit more of a challenge in their memories. When I get up each peak I’ll be thinking about them. I’m still dealing with my dad’s death, and the challenge will definitely provide some time for reflection.

“Doing the challenge is helping me deal with the grief of the past few years because if sharing my story and raising awareness or funds for NICHS helps at least one person, that’s a great thing.

“From the physical side of things, I’m not a hiker so the challenge will be something new for me. I do have a decent level of fitness as I play sports, so I train and play matches, and I also go the gym. I try to be pretty active so hopefully that will help and I will do a test run on Donard in the next while so that will be good preparation too.

“I would encourage people to sign up and take part in the Mighty Mournes Challenge as it is not only a great opportunity for a personal challenge, but it will also help such a great, worthwhile cause which is a bonus.”

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Someone who is also supporting the call for people to get involved with the Mighty Mournes Challenge is Dawson Stelfox. Dawson is well known as the first person from Ireland to reach the summit of Mount Everest, which he did 33 years ago in 1993.

Dawson may seem an unlikely candidate for experiencing ill-health, but he had an unexpected, life-changing stroke in December 2022.

Dawson also understands first-hand how important Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke’s work is as he completed the charity’s Post Rehab Exercise Programme (PREP) as part of his recovery journey. PREP is a 6-week physiotherapy led, community-based course which helps rebuild people’s lives after stroke through exercise and education.

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Dawson said: “My stroke affected my whole left-hand side- my left leg, left arm, I was pretty much immobile down my left side. My speech was also a bit slurred. I spent one month in the Royal Victoria Hospital’s stroke ward and have been working on my recovery since I was discharged.

“I had physiotherapy and occupational therapy through the Community Stroke Team at the Lagan Valley Hospital, and it was they who pointed me in the direction of Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke for further support.

“I attended PREP and what is good and different about it is that you are measuring yourself against time on the activities. If you have any sort of competitive spirit, like I do, you are always trying to do a bit better than the previous week.

“It’s not about competing with other people in the group, it’s about challenging yourself and what you can do. There is a sort of parallel to climbing and mountaineering activities in the sense that with these, you are not in competition with the other people that you are climbing with, you are in competition with the environment that you are in.

“That’s a bit like PREP because everybody is at different stages, everybody has their own particular abilities and disabilities, and it’s all about your own individual journey.

“Also, when you are climbing with somebody there can be times you might need their support and encouragement if you are finding things tough. That is similar to PREP in that there is great comradery at the groups, with everyone encouraging and supporting each other. There is collaboration and teamwork, like in mountaineering. “I attended two sets of PREP, and it was extremely useful. It definitely helped me on my physical recovery journey. I would encourage people to get involved with supporting Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke and to sign up for the Mighty Mournes Challenge so the charity can continue its great work and help more people, like me, after a stroke, chest or heart related illness.”

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

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Burnham Guaranteed To Be Next Prime Minister After Avalanche Of Support From Labour MPs

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Burnham Guaranteed To Be Next Prime Minister After Avalanche Of Support From Labour MPs

Andy Burnham is guaranteed to be the next prime minister after 322 Labour MPs nominated him to take over from Keir Starmer.

The huge level of support means that only 81 Labour MPs have not nominated him so far, the minimum needed to get on to the leadership ballot.

But as Starmer is not expected to nominate anyone, it is impossible for anyone else to get the level of support required to mount a challenge.

Burnham will therefore become Labour leader unopposed on July 17, and prime minister on July 20.

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In a post on X, the Makerfield MP said: “I am deeply grateful to the 322 Labour MPs who have put their trust in me and nominated me for leader of the Labour Party.

“Their support comes from across the PLP (Parliamentary Labour Party) and reflects a shared belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics. That is the circuit breaker I am offering: power out of Westminster, an economy rewired for ordinary people, and good growth in every postcode.

“I want to empower MPs to bring the experiences of their constituents into the heart of government, and harness the full breadth of our Labour movement, drawing on all its traditions and beliefs in pursuit of a common purpose.

“I want to thank every colleague who has nominated me for their commitment to that vision.”

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Eighteen members of Starmer’s cabinet, including chancellor Rachel Reeves, deputy prime minister David Lammy and foreign secretary Yvette Cooper, are among those who nominated Burnham.

Other backers included former health secretary Wes Streeting, who ditched his plan to run for the leadership last week.

Meanwhile, Burnham set out more of his vision for British foreign policy and signalled a tougher stance towards Israel over its military operations in Gaza.

In a video on social media, he apologised for Labour’s previous stance, saying his party “didn’t get it right” and the UK had been “too slow to call for a ceasefire”.

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Mr Burnham suggested that his government would “do more to strengthen our approach”, including “looking at further sanctions, both on those involved in the violence in Gaza, but also looking at measures to ban trade in goods with illegal settlements”.

His comments followed an article in The Times in which he said he would seek stability in foreign policy, setting out his commitment to Nato, the nuclear deterrent, maintaining close ties with the US and support for Ukraine as well as closer relations with the EU.

Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.

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Travis Kelce’s brother Jason breaks silence on secretive Taylor Swift wedding

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Daily Mirror

Travis Kelce’s brother Jason has made his first comments about the sports star’s wedding to global pop star Taylor Swift after the pair got married at Madison Square Garden

Jason Kelce has spoken for the first time about his brother Travis’ wedding to Taylor Swift. The pair got married in a secretive ceremony on 3 July at Madison Square Gardens.

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Jason, the 38-year-old Philadelphia Eagles player, made his first comments about the wedding whilst at the 2026 ACC Golf Championship.

Whilst walking to the course, a fan asked him about the wedding, which guests reportedly had to sign NDAs about. He responded: “It was a good time”.

Later, he added that it was “great”, and when asked about how much he drank during the party, he admitted he went “way over” 15 beers. Jason was the best man for the wedding, while Taylor’s brother Austin was the man of honour.

Guests reportedly had to surrender their phones before the wedding to ensure details didn’t get out. However, fans were still able to piece together bits and pieces about the wedding from what they could see going in and out of the venue. The roads around the stadium had been closed to allow the set up to happen the day before.

Employees were seen taking in set pieces to construct a castle in the arena, while vans were seen supplying food to the venue. The menu for the buffet was believed to include lobster and fries.

The guest list was also said to be over a 1000 people long and several guests were seen on their way to the wedding. Bradley Cooper, Zoe Kravitz, Hugh Grant and Ethan Hawke were all seen there, as were Taylor’s friends Gigi Hadid and Selena Gomez.

Karlie Kloss, who was thought to be in a feud with Taylor until recently was also seen heading to Madison Square Garden in a gold dress.

Other celebs there included Lena Dunham and her ex and Taylor Swift collaborator Jack Antonoff – who turned up with his sister rather than his wife Margaret Qualley. The two are now thought to have split.

Fans and the people of New York were alerted to the moment Travis and Taylor said “I do”, as big signs reading “JUST&T MARRIED” were displayed around the venue.

After the ceremony, some guests posted details to Instagram. One post showed a Chanel bag that a guest had one in a raffle. The other gifts up for grabs included a Cartier watch and a car.

In another post, a guest revealed that the pair had given out handkerchiefs as a wedding favour. The gifts were embroidered with two Ts and the quote “So it’s going to be forever…”. The lyric comes from Blank Space, a song by Taylor about a messy breakup. The lyric that immediately follows the one stitched onto the wedding favour is “or it’s going to go down in flames”.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

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France vs Morocco – World Cup quarter-final LIVE: Kylian Mbappe MISSES from the penalty spot after lengthy VAR delay in Boston

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France vs Morocco - World Cup quarter-final LIVE: Kylian Mbappe MISSES from the penalty spot after lengthy VAR delay in Boston

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Follow Daily Mail Sport’s live coverage of the latest updates as France take on Morocco in the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Boston. 

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York- fish and chips and seafood restaurant could open

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York- fish and chips and seafood restaurant could open

Plans lodged with York Council would see Vitoria, in Coppergate, converted into a new Yorkies Fish and Chips seafood restaurant and takeaway.

The Harrogate-based business’ application stated the conversion would see the building renovated to create a welcoming environment for customers.

It follows the closure of the Vitoria Italian restaurant in 2023.


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The restaurant said at the time it was due to a technical issue after it temporarily shut due to problems with its gas supply.

To Let signs then went up on the Grade II*-listed building which has stood empty since.

Its conversion into Yorkies Fish and Chips would see the outside of the building redecorated, new flooring fitted inside on the ground floor, stairs replaced and electricity cables rewired.

Two new air conditioning units would be installed at the back of the building.

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The existing kitchen is also set to be refurbished and a wine cellar installed in the building’s basement if plans are approved by York Council.

The empty Vitoria restaurant in Coppergate, York (Image: Newsquest)

Plans stated the conversion would help preserve the historic building.

They stated: “The planning application is primarily for our client who wishes to open a high end fish and chip and seafood restaurant with a takeaway part to complement it.

“The restaurant will create a high end fit-out to the existing buildings to create a welcoming environment for the customers.”

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Yorkies Fish and Chips opened in Knaresborough Road, Harrogate in April last year.

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World Cup LIVE: France vs Morocco updates as furious Thomas Tuchel and England complain

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Daily Mirror

Martin Odegaard is aiming to use his Premier League experience to claim England as another shock World Cup scalp.

Norway take on the Three Lions in Miami on Saturday evening with the victor securing a spot in the semi finals.

The game will also see a number of familiar faces come together, with Odegaard and Erling Haaland set to take on some of their club teammates and domestic rivals.

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And Norway captain Odegaard is hoping to use that familiarity to his advantage as the Scandinavians eye a spot in the last four.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash, Odegaard said: “Obviously we know the quality they have. I know them really well. Outstanding players, world-class players, playing for probably one of the best national teams in the world at the moment, so it’s going to be a big test for us.

“But I think Brazil was the same. We were the underdogs and, as you saw, anything can happen in football, so, yeah, we’re going to give it a good try and see what we can do and looking forward to it.

“It’s true that a lot of us play in England, so we know them quite well. Obviously, we’ve been playing against a lot of these players in the league, so we know them but it’s about the whole team. We have to be prepared, we have to analyse the opponent like we always do and we have to have the belief in ourselves.”

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I’m a priest and the Bible gives us proof of what UFOs really are… here’s what Jesus told us

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Father Lee Taylor, who leads three churches in North Wales, told the Daily Mail that several passages of Scripture suggest the mysterious objects in our skies are better understood as non-human intelligence than demonic beings

The belief that UFOs are demonic has gained traction among some Christians, but one priest argues the Bible tells a very different story.

Father Lee Taylor, who leads three churches in North Wales, told the Daily Mail that several passages of Scripture suggest the mysterious objects in our skies are better understood as non-human intelligence than demonic beings.

He pointed to Genesis’ description of humanity as God’s supreme creation on Earth, Ezekiel’s vision of the ‘wheel within a wheel,’ and Jesus’ statement in John 14:2 that ‘in my Father’s house are many rooms.’

Taylor said the Church should begin examining those passages now, arguing that Christians need to prepare theologically for the possibility of non-human intelligence before any official confirmation sparks confusion or fear.

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He believes the discovery of intelligent life beyond Earth would not undermine Christianity, but instead expand humanity’s understanding of God’s creation.

‘A bigger universe, or the discovery of a bigger universe, doesn’t make God smaller,’ Taylor, who has been ordained for 15 years, said. ‘It just makes creation bigger.’

‘I don’t think it’s a challenge to faith. I think it’s a challenge to the limits of our theological imagination,’ he added. ‘I think a larger universe demands a larger theology.’

He also urged fellow Christians to reconsider the belief that UFOs are demonic, warning that it encourages people to respond with fear rather than to approach the phenomenon with an open mind.

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Father Lee Taylor, who leads three churches in North Wales, told the Daily Mail that several passages of Scripture suggest the mysterious objects in our skies are better understood as non-human intelligence than demonic beings

While Taylor is sure the Bible holds clues to the truth about UFOs and extraterrestrial beings, the Pentagon and White House have maintained that there is no evidence that they have visited Earth. 

The Vatican does not have a definitive doctrine on aliens, but officially embraces the scientific possibility of extraterrestrial life. 

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The idea that UFOs are demonic has also been promoted by Vice President JD Vance and conservative commentator Tucker Carlson, both of whom have publicly discussed the phenomenon through a Christian lens.

‘I believe we’re approaching the time when humanity really must learn to think of itself not merely as citizens of the Earth, but as participants in a much larger creation,’ Taylor said.

Vance discussed the UFO phenomenon, saying he firmly believed that there were phenomena that humans simply cannot explain, but he was more open to other possibilities, such as a divine presence.

However, the vice president added that what he might view as an angel or demon might be interpreted as an extraterrestrial by others.

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While speaking on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast in 2024, Carlson said: ‘They’re from here, and they’ve been here for thousands of years, whatever they are.’

‘And it’s pretty clear to me that they’re “spiritual entities,”‘ he continued, ‘whatever that means.’

Taylor said the Church should begin examining Bible passages now to prepare theologically for the possibility of non-human intelligence before any official confirmation sparks confusion or fear. Pictured is a still from a UFO video released by the White House

Taylor said the Church should begin examining Bible passages now to prepare theologically for the possibility of non-human intelligence before any official confirmation sparks confusion or fear. Pictured is a still from a UFO video released by the White House 

Taylor said: ‘I don’t think it’s the most helpful framework for discussing an unknown phenomenon. It can encourage people to project fear or certainty onto something we don’t yet understand.’

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He argued that, if intelligent life exists beyond Earth, ‘there’s no reason to assume that every other form of intelligence would fit neatly into categories of absolute good or absolute evil.’ Instead, he believes such beings would likely reflect the same diversity already found among humanity.

The priest discussed Steven Spielberg’s latest film, Disclosure Day, which explores global disclosure of extraterrestrial intelligence.

One of the film’s central characters, a former nun named Jane, fears that confirmation of extraterrestrial life could shatter the foundations of her faith.

She worries that disclosure could force believers to question everything they know about God, Jesus and the Bible.

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However, another nun highlights a verse in Genesis that Taylor said could point to the existence of extraterrestrials.

Taylor said the movie points to Genesis’ narrative that humanity is God’s supreme creation on Earth.

The priest also pointed to the Book of Ezekiel, in which the prophet describes a mysterious vision of 'a wheel within a wheel' descending from the sky

The priest also pointed to the Book of Ezekiel, in which the prophet describes a mysterious vision of ‘a wheel within a wheel’ descending from the sky

‘So then that asks a profound question: Why would God create such a vast universe if it was intended only for us?’ he added.

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He argued that the repeated emphasis on Earth leaves open the possibility that God may have created intelligent life elsewhere in the universe, meaning humans could be God’s supreme creation without being His only intelligent creation.

Taylor said that interpretation should encourage Christians to think more broadly about creation rather than view the possibility of extraterrestrial life as a threat to their faith.

The priest also pointed to the Book of Ezekiel, in which the prophet describes a mysterious vision of ‘a wheel within a wheel’ descending from the sky.

While mainstream biblical scholars interpret the passage as a symbolic vision of God’s glory, Taylor said some people believe it could instead describe an encounter with advanced non-human technology that ancient writers lacked the language to explain.

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Finally, Taylor cited John 14:2, in which Jesus tells his disciples, ‘In my Father’s house are many rooms,’ or ‘many mansions’ in some translations.

While the verse is traditionally understood as referring to heaven, Taylor believes it could also hint at a far larger and more complex creation than humanity has yet discovered, one that may include other forms of intelligent life.

‘When Jesus talks about “many rooms” or “many mansions,” using language that people at the time would have understood, I wonder if this is some sort of hint? Could we view it that way?’ the priest questioned.

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Jason Kelce makes first comments on Travis and Taylor Swift wedding while at celebrity golf tournament

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Jason Kelce has finally broken his silence on his brother Travis' wedding to Taylor Swift

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Jason Kelce has finally broken his silence on his brother Travis’ wedding to Taylor Swift – and admitted the celebrations were heavily fueled by booze.

The Philadelphia Eagles legend, 38, made his first public comments regarding the highly secretive July 3 ceremony while out at the 2026 ACC Golf Championship. 

While walking between holes on the course, Kelce was asked by a fan about the Madison Square Garden event, to which he said: ‘It was a good time’. 

He later told another spectator, as seen in a New York Post video, that the exclusive bash was ‘great’, before continuing his walk with his entourage.  

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But the 38-year-old really let slip just how wild the reception got when quizzed about his beverage intake on the night. 

When asked if he had consumed more or less than 15 beers during the festivities, Jason confessed his final tally was ‘way over’ that mark. 

Jason Kelce has finally broken his silence on his brother Travis’ wedding to Taylor Swift

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Travis celebrated his wedding to Taylor Swift in front of 1,000 guests at MSG last week

Travis celebrated his wedding to Taylor Swift in front of 1,000 guests at MSG last week  

Kelce and Swift officially tied the knot inside the iconic New York City arena last week in an event shrouded in intense secrecy. Guests were reportedly forced to sign non-disclosure agreements and surrender their cell phones upon entry.

Jason served as his younger brother’s best man, while Swift’s brother, Austin, took on the role of man of honor. The ceremony was officiated by actor Adam Sandler.  

The bride and groom´s outfits came from Christian Dior Haute Couture and its designer Jonathan Anderson with shoes custom-made by Christian Louboutin. She wore Cartier jewelry.

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Actors Bradley Cooper, Zoe Kravitz, Hugh Grant and Ethan Hawke; models Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss; comic Chris Rock; director Steven Spielberg; singer Camila Cabello and author Jenny Han were among the guests from the world of arts and entertainment.

Kelce’s coach Andy Reid and Chiefs teammates including Patrick Mahomes were among the sports figures in the arena, along with Brady, Seattle Seahawks receiver and recent Super Bowl champ Cooper Kupp, New York Giants receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and ESPN personalities Joe Buck and Stephen A. Smith.

Earlier on Thursday, Jason – who has competed in the celebrity golf tournament for the past two years – was captured working on his swing before the competition officially gets underway on Friday, according to US Weekly.

He’ll be without his right-hand man this year as brother Travis will be enjoying his newly-wedded bliss rather than tee it up at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course this week. 

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The brothers have hit the fairways together for the past two years in boisterous fashion – much to the entertainment of fans. 

Jason made his first =comments regarding the ceremony at the 2026 ACC Golf Championship

Jason made his first =comments regarding the ceremony at the 2026 ACC Golf Championship

Travis did not join his brother on the fairways this year as he enjoyed newly-wedded bliss

Travis did not join his brother on the fairways this year as he enjoyed newly-wedded bliss 

Last year, Jason and Travis served as the headliners for the ACC Golf Championship – that attracts some of the biggest A-Listers across sport and entertainment. 

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To say their tournament descended into chaos would be an understatement. 

Playing alongside Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, the trio shotgunned beers, received ice cream deliveries and threw a party throughout their round – which almost ended in disaster.

One spectator found himself in Travis’s firing line – albeit through no fault of his own – as he was struck in the back of the neck by an errant shot from the Kansas City Chiefs star.

The injured fan managed to laugh the incident off as the tight end signed an autograph and posed for a photo in compensation. ‘I think so,’ he answered, when asked if he was okay.

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Football’s most famous brothers soaked up the attention in Tahoe all week, patiently signing autographs and taking photos with fans who lined the fairways.

They partied around the golf course, throwing and drop kicking footballs into the boats parked along the par-three 17th. Jason and Mayfield even practiced a snap. 

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Lanchester Garden Centre in Durham home to rare Jellycats

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Lanchester Garden Centre in Durham home to rare Jellycats

Lanchester Garden Centre on Bargate Bank boasts an almost perfect rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 4,000 reviews on Google.

Within the garden centre is Potter’s World which describes itself as the “North East’s hidden gem.”

The attraction is home to exotic free-flying birds, reptiles, amphibians, and two tortoises called Hermione and Herman.

It holds educational experiences where children can meet and interact with the animals.

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One reviewer said: “Potters World with the birds and animals is amazing. They’re all so well looked after too”.

One of the biggest draws appears to be the play area.

A review said: “Nice place to visit, great garden centre and small animals to see.

“Lovely play area for the kids and plenty of outdoor seating.”

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The garden centre announced that they had been specially selected as an official Jellycat Seeker Store on social media this week (July 6).

They have become an official Jellycat Seeker Store. (Image: EMMA FOSTER)

They said: “Only a handful of independent stores across the country are chosen for this, and it means some very special Jellycat characters will be quietly perched on our shelves, waiting for the right person to spot them.

“A few old pals have crept out of hibernation — and not a moment too soon.

“After snoozing for quite a while, these unforgettable Jellycat favourites have decided it’s time for a new adventure… and they’ve chosen Lanchester Garden Centre as one of their special UK hideouts.

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“We’re expecting our very first Seekers delivery any time soon — bringing with it a mix of rare returners, old favourites, and magical little characters who’ve been hiding away for far too long.”

Emma Foster, the garden centre’s general manager, said: “We were over the moon to be chosen.

“We work very closely with our rep and Jellycat have very strict protocols, so they only select people who they feel are married to the brand and match their concept and ethos.

“We’ve had a huge response.

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“This has definitely reignited a passion for finding those little quirky, unusual pieces that not everybody will have.”

The centre also includes The Greenhouse Restaurant which serves afternoon tea, a full English, and Sunday lunches.

One person commented: “The restaurant is very nice.

“I got an afternoon tea, and my husband got fish and chips.

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“The food was so good, it finished the day off perfectly.”

The garden centre offers a wide range of products including plants, outdoor furniture, paving, and tropical fish.

The opening times are 9am-5pm.

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Man masking face with scarf caught in fuel station scam

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Wales Online

Darren Watts was the only culprit caught after a fraud involving seven fuel stations

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The owner of a haulier firm is furious after authorities were only able to bring one fraudster to justice following a fuel card scam.

Libco Logistics, based in Caerphilly county, lost more than £5,000 from the swindle which took place across seven filling stations over the course of two days.

Prosecutor Jemma Guy told Newport Magistrates’ Court: “Libco had 45 vans delivering housing goods around Wales. For each van a fuel card was registered to purchase diesel. On April 16, 2024, the company was emailed by Snap Fuel, the business it used for fuel cards.”

Snap raised concerns of potential fraudulent activity on the cards and Libco quickly realised several payments from recent days had not been for the purpose of refuelling its vans.

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“The value of some of the transactions was much greater than would be expected,” said Ms Guy. “Refuelling should cost no more than £100 but some of these cost more than £300.”

Libco reported to police some £5,235 worth of payments at seven fuel stations in south Wales but only one of those incidents led to a criminal conviction. That incident had happened on April 14 at the A470 Texaco station in Abercynon when a 54-year-old man called Darren Watts – who did not work for Libco – had used one of the fuel cards to buy £300 worth of diesel.

CCTV showed Watts had been on the station forecourt wearing a hood and a scarf that covered his face. He pulled the pump hose behind his car boot which was up and blocking the camera’s view of what he was doing. It became clear he had pumped diesel into a container – and in the following days he advertised the fuel for sale online.

Watts was caught after his Ford Cougar’s registration number was picked up on the CCTV. But he was the only culprit brought to justice and Libco owner Steven Walters believes the blame for this lies with Gwent Police.

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Mr Walters told WalesOnline: “I had 50-odd drivers working for me and one of them got their hands on a bunch of fuel cards, which were then passed on to people who stole thousands of pounds of fuel over two days.

“Darren Watts was the tip of the iceberg. He’s just somebody who was handed one of these cards. I didn’t even know who he was.”

Mr Walters accused Gwent Police of acting too slowly to gather evidence against others who may have been involved including an employee he suspected of handing out the fuel cards in the first place.

Police said there had been difficulties obtaining CCTV footage from three of the fuel stations “despite requests to supply it for the investigation”. The force refused to answer why it had not served warrants to seize all the footage it needed.

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Watts, of Church Road in Gelligaer, pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and was fined £240 and ordered to pay compensation of £300 to Libco. After the sentencing we phoned Mr Walters who was not satisfied by the lone conviction well over two years after he reported the crimes.

“I’m so angry,” he said. “Police dragged their feet. All the CCTV gets wiped after the first few weeks. Some of the garages obviously weren’t as helpful as they should have been but police never followed up with a warrant.”

Gwent Police told us it did receive CCTV from four of the seven fuel stations but that the Crown Prosecution Service decided there was only strong enough evidence to bring a charge over one of the incidents – Watts’ fraud in Abercynon.

Libco is now in the process of being liquidated. Mr Walters said this was the result of losing its key client and nothing to do with the fuel card scam.

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He added: “We did get past the fraud. I had a strong chat with an employee I suspected and they then quit.”

During the sentencing District Judge Sophie Toms asked why it took two years for the case to reach court but the prosecutor was unable to shed light on this.

The court heard Watts has been struggling with health problems including a stroke and throat cancer.

Watts’ solicitor Richard Williams said: “He accepts the stupidity of his actions. He has had previous convictions but nothing in the past 25 years.”

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The defendant receives £1,050 per month in personal independence payments and universal credit, the court heard.

Judge Toms said Watts was not fit for unpaid work due to his health issues. She imposed prosecution costs of £85 and a victim services surcharge of £96 on top of the fine and compensation.

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How to watch France vs Morocco FOR FREE: TV channel and live stream for World Cup quarter-final today

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How to watch France vs Morocco FOR FREE: TV channel and live stream for World Cup quarter-final today

Quarter-final action at the World Cup begins tonight with pre-tournament favourites France taking on Morocco in Boston.

Les Bleus have won every single game in North America so far, topping their group in the process and are now two games away from reaching a third successive World Cup final.

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