By SAM LAWLEY, NEWS REPORTER

Published: 13:20 BST, 9 September 2026 | Updated: 14:01 BST, 9 September 2026

Doctor Who star Noel Clarke has been charged with sexual offences against five women.

The actor, 50, was charged with two charges of sexual assault, three charges of voyeurism and one of exposure.

The offences are alleged to have taken place between 2007 and 2016 and follow an investigation which began in September 2025.

Clarke, who lives in Kensington, west London, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, October 21.

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The shamed actor was in December declared bankrupt just months after he lost a legal battle over allegations of sexual misconduct.

The star was ordered to pay at least £3million of The Guardian publisher’s legal costs after he pursued a ‘far-fetched’ and ‘false case’ against the newspaper’s reporting of allegations of sexual misconduct, which he denied.

Detective Superintendent Mike Cagney, whose team is leading the investigation, said: ‘The women connected to these charges continue to receive support from specially trained officers.

‘We urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault to contact police. The information you provide will be dealt with in the utmost sensitivity and we have trained investigators on hand to support you.’

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Doctor Who star Noel Clarke has been charged with sexual offences against five women

The shamed actor, pictured, left, with David Tennant and Camille Coduri, was in December declared bankrupt

Clarke gained his career breakthrough playing Mickey Smith in Doctor Who between 2005 and 2010.

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He had success as an actor, director and writer before his career collapsed in 2021 following accusations which emerged from the Guardian investigation, which published accounts from interviews with several women he worked with.

Bethan David, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London, said: ‘The Crown Prosecution Service has decided to prosecute Noel Clarke with two counts of sexual assault, three counts of voyeurism and one count of exposure.

‘This follows allegations made by five women in connection to sexual misconduct that took place between 2007 and 2016.

‘Our prosecutors have worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that it is in the public interest to do so.

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‘We have worked closely with the Metropolitan Police as they have carried out their investigation into the allegations.

‘The Crown Prosecution Service reminds everyone that proceedings are now active, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial.’

This is a breaking news story. More to follow. 

Amazon shoppers have hailed the goose down duvet as ‘comfortable and cosy’ without being itchy, and it’s now on sale in time to swap your bedding over for autumn

There’s no doubt that the weather is starting to change, and there’s a definite hint of autumn creeping into the air. With nights starting to cool down, now is a great time to swap over your bedding ready for the colder weather, and a duvet is the perfect place to start.

While some people prefer to have an in-between weight duvet for autumn before swapping to another heavier, warmer one for winter, Amazon shoppers have been praising one that’s great for all seasons. The Luxury Hotel Quality 12 Tog Goose Feathers Down Duvet is just right for all weathers, so you won’t wake up sweating on warmer nights or freezing when the temperature suddenly drops.

READ MORE: Keen gardeners have used this ‘fantastic’ autumn grass food ‘for 20 years’ to prepare lawns for winter

READ MORE: Luxurious cotton bedding set that’s used in Four Seasons hotels is now £100 off

The Luxury Goose Feathers Down Duvet is made with premium goose feather down inside, which are particularly good for keeping you warm in colder temperatures like the ones ahead of us. The down is premium ethically sourced grey goose down and feathers which have been approved by Responsible Down Standard (RDS) and Down Pass.

The duvet’s exterior is made with 100% natural cotton, which is great for breathability and comfort. It’s also been designed to be down-proof, which means no feathers poking through and scratching you, or having to constantly pick up rogue feathers from your bedroom floor. To stop the filling from shifting and leaving your duvet uneven or with cold spots, it’s been square stitched into sections to keep it even and cosy all-round.

If you love the feel of a down filling but prefer not to use real down for any reason, there’s some great alternatives around too. At Dusk, the Anti-Allergy Feels Like Down Duvet Collection is only £35 for a double, with single, king size and super king sizes available, as well as togs ranging from 4.5 to 9 to 13.5.

Or, you could head to M&S where the Luxury Down Alternative 10.5 Tog Duvet is between £45 and £75. It has a plush, luxurious filling that’s a great alternative to feather down, and although you can choose from multiple tog options, the 10.5 is perfect for autumn and winter.

However Amazon currently has offers on the single and double sizes of the Luxury Goose Feathers Down Duvet, with the 200cm x 200cm double now reduced from £67.99 to £56.09, while the single is now £50.14 down from £59.99. You can also pick it up in king size and super king, as well as a two pack of the double duvet if you have more than one bed to buy for.

And whilst shoppers have praised the versatility of the 12 tog duvet, you can also get it in 13.5 tog, which is ideal for the cold winter weather, as well as 4.5 tog and 9 tog options. That means you have plenty of options for different temperatures and depending on whether you’re a hot or cold sleeper.

Amazon shoppers have also praised the Luxury Goose Feathers Down Duvet, with one saying: “With a 9 Tog filling, it keeps you warm without weighing you down. You won’t feel cold in winter, nor will you feel stuffy in spring and autumn. It’s suitable for all four seasons.”

Another agreed: “The 9 TOG weight is perfect for year-round use. The down-proof fabric actually works – no feathers poking through or itchy feeling. Surprised by the loft and bounce – compresses and springs back nicely. My duvet used to twist into a ball inside the cover, but now it stays put. Fabric feels smooth and odor-free out of the bag. Prime next-day delivery, well-packaged. Would buy again!”

Some were less impressed, writing: “It was very heavy and did not feel 100% natural. I had to purchase a new duvet from a retail store. However, the quality matches the price.”

While another wrote: “Not as thick as I thought- and you need to shake it every day or so otherwise it flattens. Also you hear rustling when you move the duvet.”

However others absolutely loved the Luxury Goose Feathers Down Duvet, with one saying: “Very nice and thick duvet, very snug and warm, nice quality stitching and filling, no loose feathers. Good value for money! Recommended!”

And another praising: “I absolutely love this goose down duvet! It’s incredibly comfortable and cozy to sleep under. I’ve been searching for the perfect bedding for a long time, and I’ve finally found it. It feels soft, warm without being too heavy, and has made a noticeable difference to my sleep. Highly recommend!”

There’s a real mixed bag of weather on the way with Thursday promising to be wet and breezy

After a mixed start to September Wales is set to see some heavy rainfall on Thursday across most of the country.

While Wednesday is mostly dry with the odd shower appearing now and then Thursday is set to be much wetter before we see a real mixed bag of weather over the weekend.

According to Met Office maps early on Thursday morning should be mainly dry but rain will start to fall later in the morning and then heavier in the afternoon. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter.

By 4pm large parts of south Wales including Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Powys, and Swansea will see rainfall. That could become heavier and more widespread by 5pm and 6pm before shifting east as we head later into the evening.

By 11pm most of Wales will be dry as the rain continues east into England.

Later in the week Friday should be relatively dry while Saturday could see very heavy downpours in most parts of Wales.

However Sunday is looking better with only scattered showers throughout.

According to the Met Office this is the weather we can expect in Wales from Wednesday night.

Wednesday night:

The evening will start fine with some sunshine and clear spells are likely overnight. However cloud will increase from the west with patchy rain starting to arrive by the morning. Minimum temperature 6°C.

Thursday:

Early sunshine is likely in the east on Thursday. However cloud and patchy rain will spread from the west heralding an increasingly wet and breezy afternoon. Heavier rain arriving later. Maximum temperature 18°C.

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Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Brighter weather returns on Friday with sunshine and occasional light showers. A spell of wind and rain is likely later on Saturday ahead of brighter skies with showers on Sunday.

Prince William and his aunt Princess Anne have today joined royals from around the world at the funeral of King Harald V of Norway.

The Prince of Wales represented his father, King Charles, at the service at Oslo Cathedral, while the Princess Royal attended in a private and personal capacity as godmother of the new king, Haakon VIII.

They were joined by other European royals including King Felipe of Spain, Queen Rania of Jordan and Princess Charlene of Monaco. 

The coffin was taken from the palace to the cathedral in a procession of senior Norwegian royals including King Haakon, foreign guests and representatives from Norway’s and other parliaments. 

Haakon walked behind the coffin, draped with the red Norwegian royal standard, alongside his oldest child, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, now heir to the throne, his son Prince Sverre Magnus and his sister Princess Martha Louise.

The King’s stepson Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, who is currently serving a four-year prison sentence under house arrest at his parents’ Skaugum Estate while he appeals his conviction for two counts of rape, also joined members of the Norwegian royal family at the cathedral.

He previously joined his relatives to carry the coffin of Harald from the Royal Palace to the palace chapel last week while temporarily released, sparking fierce backlash from royal fans, many of whom strongly condemned his presence at the occasion. 

His mother, Queen Mette-Marit, who missed her husband’s swearing-in ceremony due to ‘complications’ from her recent lung transplant surgery in June, and Harald’s widow, Queen Sonja, followed the coffin in a car. 

Norway’s King Haakon, Queen Mette-Marit and Queen Sonja during the funeral ceremony for King Harald V

Marius Borg Hoiby, left, arrives for the funeral of Norway’s King Harald V at Oslo Cathedral 

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The funeral ceremony for King Harald V in Oslo Cathedral

Princess Martha Louise of Norway and her husband Durek Verrett during the funeral

Queen Mette-Marit of Norway arrives for the funeral ceremony of late King Harald V

The casket of late King Harald V of Norway leaves the Royal Palace in a royal procession to the Cathedral in Oslo

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King Felipe of Spain and his wife Queen Letizia were among the mourners who flew into Oslo for the solemn occasion 

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky walk as part of the procession

King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark and King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden also joined the procession.

Political leaders including Norwegian prime minister Jonas Gahr Store and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were also in attendance. 

Thousands of people lined the streets of the Norwegian capital to bid a final farewell to Harald, who reigned for 35 years.

Scores of churches, libraries, cultural centers and city halls were also making big screens available for the public to watch the funeral, public broadcaster NRK reported.

A 21-gun salute rang out over the capital at the start of the funeral procession from the royal palace to Oslo Cathedral.

King Charles was not at the sombre event because under royal precedent, the sovereign does not attend funerals of other heads of state, and so the duty fell to William. 

The Prince of Wales represented his father at the funeral of Pope Francis in the Vatican in April last year.

Meanwhile, King Charles paid tribute to his ‘dear cousin’ and ‘much-loved kinsman and friend’ after news of Harald´s death was announced.

King Haakon was joined by his daughter Crown Princess Ingrid for a final farewell to his father 

The funeral cortege making its way from the Palace to Oslo cathedral for the service 

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Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands walked behind Charlene of Monaco 

Princess Charlene of Monaco put on a sombre display as she walked alongside her husband Prince Albert

Prince William, Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece and Princess Anne at today’s sombre occasion

Prince William travelled to Norway to represent his father, King Charles, at the service

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Prince William speaks with Spain’s Queen Sofía and Crown Prince Christian of Denmark

Prince William and Princess Anne join royals from around the world at the funeral of Harald

Norway’s Queen Sonja, King Haakon, and Queen Mette-Marit arrive at the funeral ceremony of Norway’s King Harald

Queen Mette-Marit appeared solemn at her father-in-law’s funeral

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Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco (pictured right) and Queen Rania of Jordan (pictured centre)

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands at Oslo Cathedral

Japan’s Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, Prince William and Princess Anne follow in the procession

In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, he said the monarch served the people of Norway with ‘unwavering dedication’ and guided them through times of change with ‘warmth and humility’. 

Queen Elizabeth II and King Harald were second cousins and shared the same great-grandparents, King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. William and the now-Princess of Wales carried out an official tour to Norway in 2018.

The Norwegian royal house also has kinfolk in other European royal families. Harald and Haakon are related to both King Charles and Spain’s King Felipe. They´re all descendants of Queen Victoria. 

Passing away on 28 August aged 89, King Harald V was Europe’s oldest reigning sovereign. Yet, despite modernising his family’s rule over the years, he refused to step down like other ageing monarchs.

His son immediately became King Haakon VIII and last week pledged an oath of allegiance to Norway’s constitution in parliament.

Ahead of the funeral, Norwegians waited patiently to file past Harald’s coffin as it lay in state in the chapel of the royal palace in Oslo, with the queue stretching seven hours long over the weekend.

After the funeral, Harald’s coffin will be taken in a procession to the palace chapel at Akershus Castle, where the late king’s ancestors are buried.

After a private ceremony for the Norwegian royals, who will be joined by some of the foreign guests and senior Norwegian officials, it will be lowered into the crypt.

Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, Denmark’s King Frederik and Queen Mary and Denmark’s Crown Prince Christian walk in the procession

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Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store bows to the coffin during the funeral ceremony

King Willem-Alexander, Queen Maxima and Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia of Netherlands finding their seats ahead of the service

Queen Letizia of Spain, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands during the procession

Today, the throne’s role in Norway is largely symbolic and power lies with the elected government and parliament, but the Norwegian royal family retains a role in promoting the wealthy Scandinavian nation around the world.

Norway´s monarchy traces its origins to King Harald Fairhair in the ninth century. When Norway regained its independence from Sweden in 1905, three-quarters of voters in a national plebiscite approved restoring the monarchy.

A minute’s silence will be held across Norway at the start of the funeral ceremony. Eulogies will be delivered by Norway’s parliament speaker and prime minister, and there will be a candle-lighting ceremony with representatives of different faiths.

The government says it’s not an official holiday, but schools and workplaces could individually opt to let students and employees tune in for today’s events. The government advised that ‘noisy events should be suspended while the funeral is ongoing’. 

Earlier today, European royalty were spotted arriving at the five-star Grand Hotel in the capital after having landed at Oslo Airport.

Spain’s King Felipe was photographed exiting a bus before entering the luxury accommodation, waving at cameras as he walked on a red carpet toward the entrance of the lobby, while carrying his own beige-toned duffel bag.

Several royals also arrived at the same hotel on Tuesday, with Luxembourg’s former Grand Duke Henri, Princess Alexia of Greece, and Carlos Morales Quintana stepping off a bus, while Japan’s Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko arrived in a Mercedes-Benz.

According to TV 2, many of these high-profile guests opted for shared transit later that day. A group including Felipe, Letizia, Henri, the Serbian Crown Prince couple, Prince Alois of Liechtenstein, Princess Alexia, and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece all took a bus together to the Palace. 

Norway’s Prince Sverre Magnus, King Haakon, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra led the funeral procession 

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The funeral procession with Norway’s King Harald’s coffin leaves the Palace on the way to Oslo Cathedral on the day of his funeral

King Philippe of Belgium and Queen Mathilde of Belgium were among the European royals in attendance 

Abdullah II of Jordan, Queen Rania of Jordan and Princess Charlene of Monaco followed the coffin 

The coffin of His Majesty King Harald V is transported from the Royal Palace to Oslo Cathedral

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After a private ceremony for the Norwegian royals, who will be joined by some of the foreign guests and senior Norwegian officials, it will be lowered into the crypt. Pictured, the King and Queen of Jordan, and the Prince and Princess of Monaco and the King and Queen of the Netherlands

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, pictured centre, and Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store walk behind the coffin

Queen Sonja of Norway and Queen Mette-Marit of Norway arrive via car for the funeral together

The coffin of Norway’s King Harald is carried into Oslo Cathedral ahead of his funeral ceremony

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The casket of late King Harald V of Norway leaves the Royal Palace in a royal procession to the cathedral in Oslo

Harald’s coffin passes floral tributes and mourners in the streets of Oslo

Members of the Norwegian royal family Queen Sonja, King Haakon, Queen Mette-Marit, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus and Princess Martha speak with the members of the catherdral before the service

Meanwhile, Norway’s Queen Mette-Marit faces an awkward reunion with Luxembourg’s Grand Duchess Stephanie at the funeral after calling her wedding to Grand Duke Guillaume ‘deadly boring’ in an email to Jeffrey Epstein.

In an email dated October 21, 2012, Mette-Marit, 53, who has faced intense scrutiny for her friendship with the paedophile financier, wrote: ‘Boring wedding. Was like some kind of old movie. Where you know the characters are not hanging around for much long[er].’

The email was sent from a redacted address under the name ‘HKH Kronprinsessen’ after Mette-Marit and Haakon joined Harald, Queen Sonja and several European royals for the Grand Duke and Duchess’s two-day nuptials on 19 and 20 October, 2012.

Haakon’s wife was forced to apologise earlier this year when it was revealed that she exchanged dozens of emails with ‘sweetheart’ Epstein despite his conviction for soliciting sex from girls as young as 14.

After the extent of her friendship with Epstein was revealed following the release of the Epstein Files, Mette-Marit, who was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, issued a grovelling apology as she said the emails do ‘not represent the person I want to be’.

Harald stood by his daughter-in-law at the time as he reiterated ‘we must remember that the Crown Princess has not done anything illegal’ and that she deserved ‘credit’ for ending their friendship ‘very early’.

Fresh scandal also came in June when Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship, Marius, was convicted on two counts of rape and jailed for four years following a six-week trial that laid bare allegations of violence, drug abuse and sexual misconduct.

An Oslo court also found him guilty of assaulting his former girlfriend, Nora Haukland, issuing threats and committing traffic offences, although he was acquitted of two other rape charges.

The 29-year-old had been charged with sexually assaulting four women who were asleep or otherwise unable to resist between 2018 and 2024.

The conviction marked a fall for Høiby, who grew up in the public eye after his mother married then-Crown Prince Haakon in 2001 when he was just four years old.

Although he does not hold a royal title or carry out official duties, he has long been closely associated with the Norwegian Royal Family.

Norway’s Prince Sverre Magnus, King Haakon VIII, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, and Princess Martha Louise walk behind the coffin of King Harald V

King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain and King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark

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The casket of late King Harald V of Norway leaves the Royal Palace in a procession

The coffin of Norway’s King Harald V is taken from the Palace to Oslo Cathedral

Norway’s King Haakon and members of the Royal Guard stand next to the coffin of Norway’s King Harald during his funeral in Oslo

Bishop Sunniva Gylver speaks during the funeral ceremony of Norway’s King Harald

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Speaker of the Storting Masud Gharahkhani takes to the podium during the funeral service

People gather on a street ahead of the funeral of Norway’s King Harald at Oslo Cathedral

The casket of late King Harald V of Norway leaves the Royal Palace in a royal procession

Judge Jon Sverdrup Efjestad handed down the sentence after hearing evidence linked to 40 charges, including four alleged rapes, assaults, breaches of restraining orders, drug offences and driving violations. One charge relating to a restraining-order violation was overturned.

The court heard how Høiby’s drug addiction spiralled in recent years, while investigators presented more than 800 messages and a series of self-made videos of sexual encounters as evidence during the trial.

One alleged rape took place in the basement of the family home, the court was told.

Høiby, who denied the most serious allegations while admitting to some lesser offences, was not physically present in court for the verdict and instead joined proceedings via video link.

The death of King Harald comes after he was being treated at Oslo University Hospital for haemolytic anaemia, a disorder which causes red blood cells to be destroyed at an abnormally fast rate.

It came just two years after the Norwegian suffered a similar problem while on holiday in Malaysia. That ordeal resulted in him having a pacemaker fitted.

The monarch had, however, insisted that he would never abdicate from his position due to poor health, arguing that he took a lifelong oath before ascending to the throne in 1991.

‘I stick by what I’ve always said, that I swore an oath to the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) and it is for life,’ he said previously.

However, the palace said his health had ‘deteriorated’ after he contracted an infection, with members of the Norwegian Royal Family rushing to his bedside the Thursday before his passing.

‘It is with deep grief that we announce that His Majesty King Harald has passed away,’ Norway’s Royal Court said in a statement.

‘King Harald died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet Friday, August 28 at 6.35am.’

Roads outside schools are often packed with cars at drop-off and pick-up time, and frazzled parents may be tempted to stop wherever they can find a space.

But the Highway Code sets out a number of places where drivers “must not stop or park”, while other restrictions depend on road markings and signs.

Here is what parents need to know before pulling up outside the school gates.

Can you park on single yellow lines outside a school?

Not necessarily.

Under Highway Code Rule 238, drivers “must not wait or park on yellow lines during the times shown on nearby signs or zone entry signs”.

Double yellow lines mean waiting is prohibited “at any time”, even if there are no upright signs.

Parents should therefore check the signs and road markings rather than assuming they can stop because other cars are parked there.

Can you stop on the school entrance markings?

This is one of the biggest things parents need to watch out for.

Drivers “must not wait or park, or stop to set down or pick up passengers, on school entrance markings when upright signs indicate a prohibition of stopping”.

That means pulling onto the marked area for a quick drop-off is not automatically allowed.

Where should parents park instead?

Walking or cycling is obviously the best option, but if you have to drive, the Highway Code says drivers should use “off-street parking areas or marked parking bays wherever possible”.

If you have to stop at the roadside, you should:

• Park with the flow of traffic rather than facing against it.
• Stop as close as possible to the side of the road.
• Switch off the engine, headlights and fog lights.
• Apply the handbrake before leaving the vehicle.
• Make sure you do not obstruct other road users.
• Check carefully before opening your door.
• Where possible, children should get out on the side next to the kerb.
• Make sure the vehicle is secure before leaving it.

Where can you NOT park near a school?

Rule 243 says drivers “should not stop or park near a school entrance”.

There are also a number of other locations where drivers should not stop or park, including:

• Anywhere that would prevent access for emergency services
• At or near a bus or tram stop or taxi rank
• On the approach to a level crossing or tramway crossing
• Opposite or within 10 metres (32 feet) of a junction, unless in an authorised parking space
• Near the brow of a hill or hump bridge
• Opposite a traffic island
• Where you would obstruct cyclists
• Where the kerb has been lowered to help wheelchair users and powered mobility vehicles
• In front of a property entrance
• On a bend
• Where you would force other traffic into a tram lane

There is an exception where a driver is forced to stop because of stationary traffic.

Can parents park on the pavement?

No. It should always be avoided as it is dangerous and makes it harder for wheelchairs and buggies to use the pavement.

In London and Scotland, “drivers must not park partially or wholly on the pavement, except in limited circumstances”.

Elsewhere, drivers “should not park on the pavement unless signs specifically permit it”.

The Highway Code warns that pavement parking can obstruct pedestrians, wheelchair users, people with visual impairments and those with prams or pushchairs.

That makes blocking the pavement outside a school particularly problematic during busy drop-off and pick-up times.

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What about pedestrian crossings?

Drivers “must not stop or park on a pedestrian crossing”, including the area marked by the zig-zag lines.

This is another area parents should avoid when looking for somewhere to pull up.

Can you park in a disabled or residents’ space?

Only if you are entitled to use it.

Rule 241 states that drivers “must not park in spaces reserved for specific users”, including Blue Badge holders, residents or motorcycles, unless they are entitled to do so.

Parents should not assume a space is available simply because it is empty during the school run.

What about double parking?

Leaving a car alongside another parked vehicle can cause serious obstruction.

In Scotland, drivers must not double park, except in limited circumstances.

More generally, Rule 242 says drivers must not leave a vehicle or trailer in a dangerous position or where it causes “unnecessary obstruction of the road”.

Father walking his daughter to school (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The key school-run parking rule

The safest option is to avoid stopping directly outside the school gates unless the road markings and signs clearly allow it.

Drivers should look for a legal parking bay, off-street parking or another suitable place away from the entrance, then walk the remaining distance if necessary.

A quick drop-off might seem harmless, but yellow lines, school entrance markings, junctions, crossings and restricted spaces can all come with specific rules.

Checking the signs and road markings before getting out of the car can help parents avoid an unnecessary parking problem during the school run.

Welcome to our live coverage for the sprint race for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, the first race after F1’s summer break. Kimi Antonelli has had a tremendous first part of the season, leading Lewis Hamilton by 50 points and George Russell by 59 after the first 11 rounds. He has taken six wins to Russell’s two, with Hamilton, Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc all racking up a win apiece. 

His start to the second part of the season was not the best, however. A messy sprint qualifying session meant he ended down in fifth, more than 0.2sec behind team-mate Russell, who took a much-needed pole. 

Some of the damage was self-inflicted, quite literally. In the first session of sprint qualifying he ran wide at the banked turn 12 and into the gravel. The damage to the floor of his car was attempted to be repaired for the rest of the session but left him lacking downforce. A gap of 0.2sec is not enormous but the other issue was that three other cars – Norris, Leclerc and Piastri – are between him and Russell. 

That said, it is not a great worry at this point. The points available in the sprint are relatively small and Antonelli has a healthy margin at this point over his rivals. In any case, there is no guarantee that Russell and Antonelli finish where they will start. Antonelli has shown on numerous occasions that he can bounce back from a difficult session and you have to expect that again here. 

The race, which starts at 11am BST, is one-third of the race distance and should be run in dry conditions. There have been persistent showers and a steady breeze at Zandvoort this weekend, but it is not expected to affect the running in the sprint. 

Qualifying for tomorrow’s grand prix comes later today at 3pm, which could be a more consequential session. 

By OLIVIA DAY, ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR, AUSTRALIA

Published: 12:04 BST, 9 September 2026 | Updated: 12:57 BST, 9 September 2026

A woman accused of killing her friend in a fiery Lamborghini crash claims he triggered a ‘boost’ while tampering with the supercar’s controls. 

Humaira Batool, 26, told jurors that her passenger, Mohammed Shaan Hussain, 20, pressed buttons moments before the Lamborghini Urus began to ‘surge’. 

Batool denies causing death by dangerous driving following the crash on the M62 near Ripponden, West Yorkshire, on December 21, 2022.

The car was travelling at 120mph as it passed Stott Hall Farm – known as the ‘house in the middle of the motorway’ – before leaving the road, striking a barrier and overturning.

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Motorists’ attempts to rescue Mr Hussain were hindered by fire and an explosion. 

Batool, then aged 22, escaped and was found on a grass verge with serious injuries, including burns to around 10 per cent of her body and a shattered tibia.

Mr Hussain died in the wreckage.

He had hired the Lamborghini to collect a friend from HMP Leeds and picked up Batool from her Bradford home around 4am.

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Humaira Batool (pictured arriving at court) denies causing death by dangerous driving following a fatal crash on the M62 near Ripponden, West Yorkshire, on December 21, 2022

Motorists’ attempts to rescue Mr Hussain (pictured) were hindered by fire and an explosion. The 20-year-old died in the fiery wreckage

Prosecutor Christopher Dunn told Leeds Crown Court that Mr Hussain was initially driving the supercar before the pair swapped seats.

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The court heard she drove at more than twice the speed limit in dark, wet conditions and reached speeds of up to 143mph before the fatal crash. 

Mr Dunn told the jury: ‘The defendant’s driving fell far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver.’

Batool initially told police she had been asleep in the passenger seat and awoke when the car rolled, the court heard.

But footage shown to the jury showed Batool leaving the passenger seat at traffic lights and taking the driver’s seat from Mr Hussain.

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Mr Dunn said: ‘She kept entirely shtum about that until she was forced to acknowledge it when she was confronted with unequivocal evidence proving that she was the driver at the relevant time.’

Batool told jurors Mr Hussain had been handling controls inside the car and said: ‘Watch this, watch this’ before reaching towards the console and steering wheel.

She claimed the vehicle repeatedly ‘boosted’ as he ‘pressed the buttons multiple times’, causing her to panic and freeze.

Footage shown to the jury showed Batool leaving the passenger seat and taking the driver’s seat from Mr Hussain (pictured). She initially claimed she awoke when the car rolled

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But a Lamborghini expert told the jury there were no buttons, levers or controls which could cause such acceleration.

Mr Dunn told the jury: ‘You may feel she embarked on a deeply distasteful attempt to put the blame for that grossly excessive speed upon the person who died as a result of her dangerous driving.’

Defence barrister Richard Dawson argued the collision may have been a genuine accident for which nobody was criminally responsible.

He said: ‘Sometimes, accidents happen – accidents in the true sense where no one is criminally to blame.’

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Mr Dawson said high speed alone would not make a car suddenly leave the road and overturn, suggesting something else must have caused the sudden loss of control.

He said: ‘The prosecution have never been able to provide any crucial detail as to how or why the collision actually occurred. They don’t know.’

Mr Dawson said Batool did not claim to know exactly what Mr Hussain touched, only that the car surged afterwards.

Jurors are expected to be sent out today to consider their verdict following closing speeches from the prosecution and defence.

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Camera crews, monitors, and lighting rigs have been set up along the promenade in the seaside town as filming gets underway on the rumoured ‘Tales Of The Unexpected’ series. 

The production, which is understood to be operating under the working title of Zoltar, will explore the world of Roald Dahl’s short stories for adults across six episodes.

While this has not yet been confirmed, megastar Toby Jones, who has been announced as part of the cast for the Roald Dahl series, has been seen on set walking through Station Square. 

Film crews in Saltburn for a new Netflix production (Image: PETER JOSEPH)

Jones is best known for his roles as Dobby in Harry Potter, Arnim Zola in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and as Alan Bates in Mr Bates vs The Post Office. 

Also spotted on set were Naomi Scott, best known for her roles in Smile 2 and Aladdin, and Nicola Coughlan, from Bridgerton and Derry Girls. 

Film crews moved in on the town earlier this week, transforming Keith’s Sports on Milton Street into a pawn shop, rebranding the amusements as ‘Penny Palace’, and adding a new ‘Beachside Café’ to the promenade.

Film crews in Saltburn for a new Netflix production (Image: PETER JOSEPH)

Other pictures taken on Tuesday show how the colourful huts along the promenade are being used as ‘green rooms’, while other members of the production can be seen looking at monitors under a small marquee nearby. 

It is not known how long the production will be in town for, but a post on Facebook from a member of production suggests it will be for several weeks. 

Film crews in Saltburn for a new Netflix production (Image: PETER JOSEPH)

The new Roald Dahl series is from writer Danny Brocklehurst, who is known for writing on Harlan Coben Netflix shows including Fool Me Once, Stay Close, and The Stranger. 

The series will explore the world of Dahl’s short stories for adults and will follow a young couple navigating multiple adaptations of these across six episodes. 

The description of the series reads: “Brocklehurst weaves a deliciously twisted tale made up of Roald Dahl’s iconic short stories for adult audiences. 

Film crews in Saltburn for a new Netflix production (Image: PETER JOSEPH)

“A young couple, marooned in a faded seaside town, must face con men, adulterers, murderous mothers, and snake charmers as they attempt to escape before their own fate is sealed…”

Toby is one of many major stars already announced for the series, with others including Imelda Staunton (Harry Potter, The Crown) and Dominic West (The Wire, The Crown).

Film crews in Saltburn for a new Netflix production (Image: PETER JOSEPH)

Other stars already confirmed for the show include Christine Tremarco (Adolescence, Waterloo Road), Josh Finan (Say Nothing), Carmen Ejogo (Selma, It Comes at Night), Michael Socha (The Cage), and Clarke Peters (The Boroughs, The Wire)

The series is produced by Orchid Pictures, with Suzanne Mackie (The Boys from Brazil, The Crown) and Gabriel Silver (Chernobyl, Gangs of London) serving as executive producers. Brocklehurst (Brassic, Fool Me Once) also executive produces, with Sarah Lewis (The Long Shadow, The Forsytes) as series producer. 

The series will be directed by Runyararo Mapfumo (Sex Education, KAOS) and Ben Gregor (The Magic Faraway Tree, Brassic). 

Parts of the show have already been filmed in Manchester.

Linda Patterson, 58, died at the scene on the A8 near Edinburgh airport on Monday morning.

A woman who died in a fatal crash near Edinburgh Airport has been named locally as Linda Patterson.

The collision on the A8 Glasgow Road, between Newbridge Roundabout and Gogar, at around 9.25am on Monday involved a grey Mercedes A250, a black Renault Captur, a grey Skoda Karoq and a grey Hyundai i30.

A major emergency service response was dispatched to the crash site, which police later described as a “hit and run”.

Linda, the 58-year-old driver of the grey Hyundai i30, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives said they were looking for three people who had allegedly fled the scene. Two women, aged 23 and 19, and a 32-year-old man have since been arrested.

Loved ones have paid tribute on social media to pub boss Linda, from Broxburn, following news of her sudden passing.

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Her business partner Arthur Alexander said she was his best friend and had become part of his family.

He said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we are having to announce the tragic passing of our amazing friend Linda Patterson.

“Linda was my best friend for over 40 years and very much part of our family. She will be sadly missed.

“Further details with funeral arrangements etc will be announced in due course. Till we meet again LP.”

Trishia Ashcroft said: “We are shocked to the core to hear about the sad passing of our lovely cousin, Linda. We were thankful to have spent some special time with Linda and recently Was looking forward to many visits this coming year and making memories. Absolutely gutted.”

Chloe Jayne commented: “Our hearts are broken. We will never forget you Linda.”

Charlotte McGartland said: “A devastating loss. She was the loveliest person I’ve ever met. Her family here in Greenock are heartbroken but very grateful to have known such an beautiful soul. Rest in peace lovely Linda, you’ll never be forgotten.”

Linda Brysland commented: “Absolutely heartbroken. Rest in peace my beautiful cousin. Forever grateful for the memories, cruelly not enough of them. Love always.”

Marieanne Empsall said: “My lovely cousin, you will be greatly missed.”

Four other people were taken to hospital with injuries after the crash.

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Images taken at the scene showed a lorry, which was stopped on a grass verge and a number of cars, some of which appeared to be on their roof. Police with sniffer dogs were also pictured in the area.

The road was closed to allow investigation enquiries to be carried out and re-opened around 7.05pm on Monday night. The vehicles were also recovered.

Following the crash, Inspector Thomas Mallinson said: “My thoughts are with the family of the person who died at this incredibly difficult time.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed it or who has information which could assist our investigation to contact us. I would also ask anyone who was in the area and may have dash-cam footage to please get in touch if it holds anything which could be relevant.”

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