The investigation reportedly relates to allegations of attempted rape at his Balnagown Estate in the Highlands.

An investigation has been launched by Police Scotland into sexual assault allegations made against the former Harrods owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.

The force is reportedly looking into allegations of attempted rape at his Balnagown Estate in Easter Ross in the Highlands. Al Fayed, who died in August 2023, is alleged to have sexually abused hundreds of women and girls over the course of decades.

In 2024, police said they had completed their investigation into a “non-recent sexual assault” in Balnagown, which Al Fayed bought in 1972. Officers have now reopened the case after a new witness came forward, according to the Scottish Mail on Sunday.

The case is reportedly related to an alleged attack at the estate in 1991. This comes after a new witness has spoken to officers and provided information.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Further investigation is ongoing. It would be inappropriate to comment further.”

More than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct have been made against Al Fayed dating back to 1977.

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Chinook helicopters for logistical and heavy-lift capacity and support from UK standby battalions will be made available upon request.

The UK Government has offered military support to tackle the Cairngorms wildfire following a request by Scotland’s Justice Secretary.

Douglas Alexander, the Scottish Secretary, told Neil Gray that specialist resources will be made available upon request, including Chinook helicopters for logistical and heavy-lift capacity and support from UK standby battalions. However, the First Minister said the UK Government’s offer was unnecessary.

John Swinney said the Scottish Government had requested aerial support to drop water on the fire but was told that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) did not have such equipment. Instead, the UK Government has offered alternative support.

On Sunday afternoon, firefighters said an “intensive operation” is still under way but better weather conditions, including heavy rain and low winds, have slowed the fire and limited its spread.

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More than 75 firefighters remain at the scene, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said. Residents of Nethy Bridge who were evacuated on Friday night have been told they can return home.

Police Scotland said on Saturday night it was no longer treating the fire as a major incident. Following a request for military support on Saturday, the Scottish Secretary confirmed some help could be made available.

He said: “The last 12 days have been extremely challenging for the teams on the ground tackling the wildfire and for those who live and have livelihoods in the area. Scottish Fire and Rescue services and the local community have committed exceptional efforts to trying to get the fire under control and they deserve a wealth of praise and thanks.

“Since receiving the request for assistance from the Scottish Government, I have worked at speed with the Defence Secretary to establish the resources we can deploy to support the efforts in the Cairngorms.”

The First Minister said: “The Scottish Government requested military assistance, in the form of aerial support to drop water on the fire, from the Ministry of Defence to supplement existing aerial resources that are in place.

“We have received a formal response advising that the UK Government are not in a position to agree to this request, given that the Ministry of Defence does not possess aerial firefighting assets stationed within the UK.

“The offer of other resources is welcome but SFRS has confirmed they have the other resources they need.

“Ministers will continue to be updated on the fire, and resources and services will remain until the fire is out.

“As I stated earlier, this wildfire is being treated with the utmost seriousness and necessary resources will be in place until the last flames are out.”

Earlier on Sunday, Scotland’s Justice Secretary said he did not expect to receive military support, saying it was his understanding that the UK military “does not have the capability” that is required for the fire. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the armed forces are “always ready” to respond to emergencies.

He said: “My thoughts are with those who have been affected by the terrible wildfires in the Cairngorms and I pay tribute to the brave emergency services personnel who have been working tirelessly to tackle the blaze.

“Our armed forces are always ready and able to respond to serious situations and Chinook helicopters can be available to provide heavy-lifting capacity, which may be needed given the landscape, and we have UK standby battalion personnel ready to deploy to provide additional numbers on the ground to help bring the wildfire under control.

“The Ministry of Defence is ready to support in any way we can and we are working closely with teams on the ground.”

The SFRS still has more than 75 firefighters, nine fire appliances and additional specialist resources on scene, supported by three helicopters conducting water-bombing operations.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “I want to reassure everyone affected by this prolonged incident that we are still fully committed with the appropriate resourcing in place as we work to protect the community.

“This is still very much a large, multi-agency response with partners, volunteers and the community pulling together to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.

“We intend to take advantage of the positive weather conditions to aggressively fight this fire in key areas, particularly in the north end of the incident ground to make an impact while the conditions allow.

“However, we are not complacent. SFRS staff and partners remain vigilant across all areas of the incident ground to monitor for any flare up.”

More than 500 firefighters and staff from partners and community volunteers have been actively involved in or supported the response since the incident began on July 15.

Mr Barbour added: “This remains a dynamic and changing incident and we expect to be in attendance with significant resources into next week.”

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Shelly Fairchild will perform at The Forum on Thursday, August 13.

Known for her work with big names like Martina McBride, Keith Urban, and Tim McGraw, Ms Fairchild has built a strong reputation in the country music scene.

Allison McKay, chief executive of The Forum Music Studios, said: “This is going to be a great night of original live music, all the way from Nashville.

“Shelly Fairchild has played with some of the greatest names in country, and on one of the most iconic stages of them all, The Grand Ole Orpy, so to see her here at The Forum is something we’re really excited about and not to be missed.”

In addition to touring with major artists, Ms Fairchild has provided backing vocals for Jason Aldean and Eric Church, and written songs recorded by Little Big Town and Tanya Tucker.

Her appearance in Darlington coincides with the release of “Sacred Southern Daughter,” her first album in a decade.

Support on the night will come from Cambridge country act Tennessee Twin.

Tickets are priced at £15 and available from theforumonline.co.uk.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued “do not eat” notices for potentially unsafe items due to potential health risks.

Customers are advised not to consume the products and to follow recall guidance, which may include returning the items for a refund or disposing of them safely.

Tesco, Asda and Waitrose product recalls you should know about

Waitrose recall

A popular bakery item sold at Waitrose is being recalled due to fears it may contain hard plastic and metal pieces.

The supermarket chain is recalling its eight-pack of Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls.

Customers are being warned that the item could be “unsafe to eat,” and if you have bought the affected product, you should package it up and send it back to your local Waitrose shop for a refund.

The FSA has warned shoppers “do not eat it.”

Tuesday 21st July – Waitrose & Partners recall Waitrose & Partners 8 Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls. It may contain pieces of hard plastic and metal #FoodAlert https://t.co/7MH0vuY3KN pic.twitter.com/F8D4nsEIFc

— Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) July 21, 2026

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The recall only applies to one batch of Chocolate Chip Brioche Rolls.

To check a pack of the brioche rolls, look out for the batch code B26177 and the best before date of July 26, 2026.

Tesco and Asda recall

A popular dairy item sold at Tesco and Asda is being recalled due to the risk that veterinary medicines, including antibiotics (penicillin), could be found in it.

Graham’s Family Dairy is recalling the Graham’s Family Dairy Semi-Skimmed Milk of various sizes.

Customers are being warned that the items could be “unsafe to consume” and if you have bought the affected products, you should return them to where you bought them for a refund.

The FSA has warned shoppers “do not consume” the milk.

22 July 2026 – Graham’s Family Dairy recalls Semi-Skimmed Milk due to the presence of veterinary medicines including antibiotics (penicillin) #FoodAlert https://t.co/CrpN76g6ZH pic.twitter.com/4rxkED0OTx

— Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) July 22, 2026

The recall applies to the following products:

• Graham’s Family Dairy Semi-Skimmed Milk – one pint
• Graham’s Family Dairy Semi-Skimmed Milk – one litre
• Graham’s Family Dairy Semi-Skimmed Milk – two litres

To check the milk, look out for the best before date of July 31, 2026.

Graham’s Family Dairy said: “At Grahams Family Dairy we believe that the quality of our products and the safety of our consumers is paramount.

“This is a precautionary measure we have taken as there is a small risk a trace level of antibiotics may be present in the milk which could cause a reaction to consumers with an allergy to antibiotics.”

What is a product recall?

The FSA explains what a product recall is: “If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be ‘withdrawn’ (taken off the shelves) or ‘recalled’ (when customers are asked to return the product).

“The FSA issues Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food.

Recommended reading:

“In some cases, a ‘Food Alert for Action’ is issued.

“This provides local authorities with details of specific action to be taken on behalf of consumers.”

Have you had to return a recalled product recently? Tell us in the comments below.

The medal is Scotland’s fourth gold of the Games, which are being held in Glasgow.

Anghard Evans has won gold for Scotland in the Commonwealth Games – winning the Women’s 100m Breaststroke.

She is the first Scot to take home a gold in the event.

Evans, 23, completed the race in 1 minute 6.07 seconds, beating South Africa’s Aimee Canny who finished just .12 of a second behind her.

The medal is Scotland’s fourth gold of the Games, which are being held in Glasgow.

Earlier today Reuben Ward, 21, picked up a gold for his performance in gymnastics.

Duncan Scott also took gold in the 200m individual medley, before Faye Rogers won gold in the 200m individual medley SM10.

From energetic companions looking for outdoor adventures to affectionate pets eager for a cosy place to settle down, the dogs currently in the charity’s care are all waiting for their forever homes.

Here’s a look at five of the dogs at the RSPCA’s Great Ayton branch hoping to find their perfect match.

Kassie

Kassie, a five-year-old Border Collie. (Image: RSPCA Great Ayton)

Kassie is a five-year-old Border Collie looking for a loving forever home after being rescued from unsuitable conditions. The friendly and affectionate dog could live with children aged 12 and over and may also be able to share her home with another dog.

Like most Border Collies, Kassie enjoys exercise and mental stimulation and would benefit from owners who can spend plenty of time with her.

Mitsy

Mitsy, an 11-year-old Lurcher. (Image: RSPCA Great Ayton)

Mitsy is a sweet senior lurcher, around 11-years-old, searching for a loving new home after arriving at the centre with her companion, Sox.

Described as gentle and sensitive, she enjoys plenty of affection and can usually be found curled up on a comfy bed or sofa. Mitsy could live with children of primary school age and may be able to share her new home with another dog, or even be rehomed alongside Sox.

She would suit a home where someone is around for much of the day and where she can enjoy the comfort and companionship she loves.

Sox

Sox, a nine-year-old Lurcher. (Image: RSPCA Great Ayton)

Sox is a nine-year-old Lurcher who may be a senior dog, but is still full of life. Staff say the he is “young at heart” and has become increasingly playful since arriving at the centre, enjoying toys, interaction with handlers and zooming around enclosed paddocks.

Sox could live with children of primary school age and may also be able to share a home with another dog, or be rehomed with Mitsy. He is looking for a home with plenty of space where he can continue to enjoy life and show off his playful side.

Stella

Stella, a two-year-old American Bulldog. (Image: RSPCA Great Ayton)

Stella is a two-year-old American Bulldog cross searching for a second chance after an abusive start in life.

Despite her difficult past, staff describe her as a sweet, affectionate dog who loves people and enjoys nothing more than cuddling up on the sofa. Stella is full of energy, loves toys and treats, and would benefit from gentle, reward-based training.

She could live with secondary school-aged children but would prefer to be the only pet in the home. Stella also requires a specialist urinary diet to help manage an ongoing health condition.

Marley

Marley, a three-year-old Greyhound. (Image: RSPCA Great Ayton)

Marley is a three-year-old Greyhound looking for a patient home where he can continue to build his confidence.

The handsome youngster arrived at the centre significantly underweight but has since made a full recovery and is now ready to find his forever family. Staff say Marley walks well on the lead, settles nicely indoors and should eventually be comfortable being left for short periods.

He would be best suited as the only pet in a household and is looking for owners willing to continue his training around other dogs. Described as a sweet-natured dog who has been through a lot, Marley is hoping for a calm home where he can finally relax and enjoy life.

To enquire about adopting one of these dogs, or to find out more about animals currently available for rehoming in your area, visit the RSPCA website.

Stand Up To Racism have bashed alleged “Nazi salutes” made during a far-right protest in Glasgow Green.

“Nazi salutes” pictured at a far-right protest in Glasgow Green, which clashes between opposing groups, have been slammed by anti-racist activists.

Ugly scenes broke out at the demonstration attended by around 1700 people organised by the Unite the Clans group at 11am on Saturday after protestors clashed with a counter-demo arranged by Stand Up To Racism (SUTR) and Women Against The Far Right. Police Scotland have so far arrested 15 people with incidents of disorder.

The offences include acts of violence, possession of weapons, breach of the peace, obstruction, resisting arrest disorder, intimidation and hate motivated offences. Photographs from the rally show attendees, some of which wearing balaclavas, performing what appear to be Nazi salutes.

The gestures have been pictured being made amid Scotland and Union Jack flags.

One of the organisers of the counter-protest, SUTR, have bashed the scenes online. In a statement released on their social media platforms they said: “Multiple Nazi salutes openly on display” before going on to slam those involved in the far-right protest.

Extensive enquiries are underway into the disorder and officers will be reviewing CCTV, mobile phone and dashcam footage, and capturing statements to identify those responsible.

Chief Superintendent Emma Croft earlier hit out at those attendees and promised those involved in the disorder to expect a police presence at their homes.

She said: “The level of disorder, violence and intimidation we saw in Glasgow on Saturday was nothing short of disgraceful.

“People have the right to express their views lawfully and to protest peacefully, however the behaviour we saw from those involved in the disorder was not legitimate protest but rather acts of aggression to cause fear in our communities.

“A significant investigation is already underway and my message is clear – if you were involved in these deplorable acts, you should expect our officers to be knocking on your door.

“We understand how concerning witnessing the disorder must have been and we would urge any members of the public with information, including mobile phone and dashcam footage, to please pass this on to us.

“We will continue to have a visible policing presence in the city centre and surrounding areas. Anyone with any concerns can approach our officers out on patrol who will be happy to assist.”

A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has now been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers. Those with footage or photos of criminality related to the disorder in Glasgow on Saturday are encouraged to upload it using the online form here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26S14-PO1

Information can also be passed to Police Scotland via 101 quoting Operation Cornstarch. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

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Plans have been submitted by Wickes for a new store at the Loom Retail Park in Spinning Jenny Way, Leigh.

The move comes after plans were approved earlier this month to transform the vacant former Cineworld into a unit for “bulky goods” retail.

Realty Income Limited submitted the initial plans to Wigan Council earlier this year to convert the site into a shop supplying DIY, trade, and home improvement products.

Mark Craft from Wickes and Alex Yates from Sovereign Signs are now steering the proposal for new signs for the upcoming store.

The plans include a series of new signs, including internally lit fascia signs, and a free-standing directional sign measuring 2 metres by 1.8 metres, made from galvanised steel and aluminium.

The new signs are expected to remain in place until June 2030 if the proposal is green-lighted.

The illuminated signs will emit a steady light at 250 cd/m.

Prepared by Sovereign Signs, the proposal acknowledges that they would be noticeable from public roads and pathways.

According to the document, no external consultations were undertaken regarding the notice, and no advice was sought beforehand from the local authority.

The application was registered on June 25 and received validation on July 15.

For those interested in seeing the plans, they’re available on the Wigan Council planning portal quoted under reference number A/26/101121/ADV.

The plans for the former Cineworld to become a retail unit for bulky goods were approved by Wigan Council recently.

The former Cineworld, which has been empty since January 2025, is to be transformed to accommodate a shop supplying DIY, trade, and home improvement products.

Alterations include the addition of new roller shutters, revised windows, and the establishment of a service yard next to the building to handle deliveries from large vehicles.

The name of the shop wasn’t confirmed in those plans, but the new signage plans confirm that Leigh is getting a Wickes store.

For more notices affecting YOUR area, visit our Public Notice Portal: https://publicnoticeportal.uk/leigh-journal

The plans were scaled back earlier this year due to costs ‘soaring’

Plans to build a new activity centre at one of the best parks in the UK have taken a major step forward. In 2021, the Nene Park Trust had plans approved to build a new indoor activity centre in the former Lakeside car park in Ferry Meadows, Peterborough.

Ferry Meadows recently retained its status as one of the best parks in the UK, as it was awarded the Green Flag status.

The original plans included an Olympic-standard climbing facility and all-weather indoor activity centre. In May of this year, these plans were scaled back due to rising costs.

The trust proposed a “smaller, less expensive building”. The plans have now taken a major step forward, as the Nene Park Trust has officially submitted its plans to Peterborough City Council.

Matthew Bradbury, chief executive of Nene Park Trust said: “We’re confident that these revised plans for the activity centre at Ferry Meadows offer an exciting development for the park and the city of Peterborough.

“As a charity, our objective is to provide recreation for the public through the park and its facilities, both for Peterborough’s residents and all our visitors and through the activity centre we would be able to offer indoor recreation, in all weathers, all year round.

“Climbing – especially bouldering – is a growing sport across the UK – and as it now features in the Olympics it’s great that we can support aspiring climbers of all ages to fulfil their dreams.”

The trust held a public information event in April, which resulted in a “mixed response” to the new plans. However, the response was largely positive.

Following the consultation, the trust has made some changes to the internal plans. The trust has been working with Butcher Bayley Architects (BBA) on the proposals.

Luke Butcher, co-founder and director of BBA said: “We’re pleased to have supported Nene Park Trust in developing the revised plans for the Lakeside Activity Centre.

“Responding to a changing funding and construction landscape has meant designing a simpler, more efficient building, but the ambition is undimmed: a welcoming, year-round home for climbing, activity and play, sitting comfortably in its lakeside setting.

“As a practice with deep Peterborough roots, we’re proud to be shaping a building that will open up new leisure opportunities for Ferry Meadows and the wider city.”

The first phase of the build will offer an indoor roped climbing wall, as well as bouldering. The plans also propose a small cafe, children’s play area, small gym and accessible changing rooms.

Jeremy Wilson, founder of Lakeland Climbing Community, partners on the internal design and management of the activity centre said: “We are thrilled to be working with Nene Park Trust on this Peterborough project. The location, park setting and architect-designed building are an amazing backdrop for what we hope to create at the heart of the scheme. We have been really impressed by the team and look forward to working closely with them to bring this project to fruition.”

Subject to approval and remaining funding being secured, construction is set to begin in early 2027. The opening date for the first phase of the centre is proposed to be in early 2028.

A driver has been arrested after a car crash killed four people including a baby girl on the A38 in Derby.

The red Hyundai car, containing five people from Leeds, had left the dual carriageway and crashed into trees.

Paramedics were called to a stretch of the road between the A50 Toyota Island and the A516 at 11pm on Saturday.

Two women, aged 18 and 30, along with a 36-year-old man, were declared dead at the scene.

A baby girl was taken to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The driver, a 33-year-old man, was taken to hospital to be treated for serious injuries, where he remains today.

He has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

The road was closed for several hours while emergency services dealt with the crash.

A Derbyshire Police spokesman said: ‘The relatives of those involved have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers.

‘Our thoughts are with them at this most distressing time.

‘Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to please come forward.

‘We would also like to hear from anyone who has any dash cam footage which may have captured the incident.’

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