Connect with us

NewsBeat

ICE is quietly buying warehouses for its detention expansion

Published

on

ICE is quietly buying warehouses for its detention expansion

SOCORRO, Texas (AP) — In a Texas town at the edge of the Rio Grande and a tall metal border wall, rumors swirled that federal immigration officials wanted to purchase three hulking warehouses to transform into a detention center.

As local officials scrambled to find out what was happening, a deed was filed showing the Department of Homeland Security had already inked a $122.8 million deal for the 826,000-square-foot (76,738-square-meter) warehouses in Socorro, a bedroom community of 40,000 people outside El Paso.

“Nobody from the federal government bothered to pick up the phone or even send us any type of correspondence letting us know what’s about to take place,” said Rudy Cruz Jr., the mayor of the predominantly Hispanic town of low-slung ranch homes and trailer parks, where orchards and irrigation ditches share the landscape with strip malls, truck stops, recycling plants and distribution warehouses.

Socorro is among at least 20 communities with large warehouses across the U.S. that have become stealth targets for Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s $45-billion expansion of detention centers.

Advertisement

As public support for the agency and President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown sags, communities are objecting to mass detentions and raising concerns that the facilities could strain water supplies and other services while reducing local tax revenue. In many cases, mayors, county commissioners, governors and members of Congress learned about ICE’s ambitions only after the agency bought or leased space for detainees, leading to shock and frustration even in areas that have backed Trump.

“I just feel,” said Cruz, whose wife was born in Mexico, “that they do these things in silence so that they don’t get opposition.”

Communities scramble for information

ICE, which is part of DHS, has purchased at least seven warehouses in Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Texas, signed deeds show. Other deals have been announced but not yet finalized, though buyers scuttled sales in eight locations.

DHS objected to calling the sites warehouses, stressing in a statement that they would be “very well structured detention facilities meeting our regular detention standards.”

Advertisement

The process has been chaotic at times. ICE this past week acknowledged it made a “mistake” when it announced warehouse purchases in Chester, New York, and Roxbury, New Jersey. Roxbury then announced Friday that the sale there had closed.

DHS has confirmed it is looking for more detention space but hasn’t disclosed individual sites ahead of acquisitions. Some cities learned that ICE was scouting warehouses through reporters. Others were tipped off by a spreadsheet circulating online among activists whose source is unclear.

It wasn’t until Feb. 13 that the scope of the warehouse project was confirmed, when the governor’s office in New Hampshire, where there is backlash to a planned 500-bed processing center, released a document from ICE showing the agency plans to spend $38.3 billion to boost detention capacity to 92,000 beds.

Since Trump took office, the number of people detained by ICE has increased to 75,000 from 40,000, spread across more than 225 sites.

Advertisement

ICE could use the warehouses to consolidate and to increase capacity. The document describes a project that includes eight large-scale detention centers, capable of housing 7,000 to 10,000 detainees each, and 16 smaller regional processing centers. The document also refers to the acquisition of 10 existing “turnkey” facilities.

The project is funded through the big tax and spending cuts bill passed by Congress last year that nearly doubled DHS’ budget. To build the detention centers, the Trump administration is using military contracts.

Those contracts allow a lot of secrecy and for DHS to move quickly without following the usual processes and safeguards, said Charles Tiefer, a professor emeritus of law at the University of Baltimore Law School.

Socorro facility could be among the largest

In Socorro, the ICE-owned warehouses are so large that 4 1/2 Walmart Supercenters could fit inside, standing in contrast to the remnants of the austere Spanish colonial and mission architecture that defines the town.

Advertisement

At a recent City Council meeting, public comments stretched for hours. “I think a lot of innocent people are getting caught up in their dragnet,” said Jorge Mendoza, an El Paso County retiree whose grandparents immigrated from Mexico.

Many speakers invoked concerns about three recent deaths at an ICE detention facility at the nearby Fort Bliss Army base.

Communities fear a financial hit

Even communities that backed Trump in 2024 have been caught off guard by ICE’s plans and have raised concerns.

In rural Pennsylvania’s Berks County, commissioner Christian Leinbach called the district attorney, the sheriff, the jail warden and the county’s head of emergency services when he first heard ICE might buy a warehouse in Upper Bern Township, 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from his home.

Advertisement

No one knew anything.

A few days later, a local official in charge of land records informed him that ICE had bought the building — promoted by developers as a “state-of-the art logistics center” — for $87.4 million.

“There was absolutely no warning,” Leinbach said during a meeting in which he raised concerns that turning the warehouse into a federal facility means a loss of more than $800,000 in local tax dollars.

ICE has touted the income taxes its workers would pay, though the facilities themselves will be exempt from property taxes.

Advertisement

A Georgia detention center could house twice the population of the city where it’s located

In Social Circle, Georgia, which also strongly supported Trump in 2024, officials were stunned by ICE’s plans for a facility that could hold 7,500 to 10,000 people after first learning about it through a reporter.

The city, which has a population of just 5,000 and worries about the infrastructure needs for such a detention center, only heard from DHS after the $128.6 million sale of a 1 million-square-foot (92,900-square-meter) warehouse was completed. Like Socorro and Berks County, Social Circle questioned whether the water and sewage system could keep up.

ICE has said it did due diligence to ensure the sites don’t overwhelm city utilities. But Social Circle said the agency’s analysis relied on a yet-to-be built sewer treatment plant.

“To be clear, the City has repeatedly communicated that it does not have the capacity or resources to accommodate this demand, and no proposal presented to date has demonstrated otherwise,” the city said in a statement.

Advertisement

And in the Phoenix suburb of Surprise, officials sent a scathing letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem after ICE without warning bought a massive warehouse in a residential area about a mile from a high school. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat, raised the prospect of going to court to have the site declared a public nuisance.

Crowds wait to speak in Socorro

Back in Socorro, people waiting to speak against the ICE facility spilled out of the City Council chambers, some standing beside murals paying tribute to the World War II-era Braceros Program that allowed Mexican farmworkers to be guest workers in the U.S. The program stoked Socorro’s economy and population before President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s administration in the 1950s began mass deportations aimed at people who had crossed the border illegally.

Eduardo Castillo, formerly an attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, told city officials it is intimidating but “not impossible” to challenge the federal government.

“If you don’t at least try,” he said, “you will end up with another inhumane detention facility built in your jurisdiction and under your watch.”

Advertisement

___

Hollingsworth reported from Kansas City, Missouri. Holly Ramer in Concord, New Hampshire, and Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, also contributed.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

NewsBeat

Donald Bell’s family hold Victoria Cross at Green Howards museum

Published

on

Donald Bell's family hold Victoria Cross at Green Howards museum

The medal belonged to Second Lieutenant Donald Simpson Bell and is on display at The Green Howards Museum in Richmond as part of the exhibition Battle Bowlers & Football Boots.

Born in Harrogate on December 3, 1890, Donald played as an amateur for Crystal Palace and Newcastle United before signing professionally for Bradford Park Avenue.

He was the first professional footballer to enlist in the British Army during the First World War, where he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

Donald Simpson Bell, the only professional footballer to be awarded the VC. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Alison Booth, his great-niece, said: “I often think that Uncle Don would be amazed to think his story and zest for life was still being displayed and documented 110 years later.”

Advertisement

His family were given special permission by the National Football Museum to hold his Victoria Cross during the visit.

He is the only professional footballer to be awarded the Victoria Cross. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Zoe Utley, head of collections at The Green Howards Museum, said: “It is always very special to hear from family members of Green Howards and introduce the next generations to family members they have never met.

“Objects have an incredible power to connect people with their ancestors and it is a pleasure to introduce Donald’s family to his story.”

After enlisting in 1915, Mr Bell served with the 9th Battalion, Green Howards (Alexandra, Princess of Wales’ Own Yorkshire Regiment) and was sent to France in November 1915.

Advertisement

He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions on July 5, 1916, during the Battle of the Somme, for single-handedly attacking and destroying a German machine gun post under heavy fire, saving many lives.

He died five days later performing a similar act of bravery.

He died running bravely into gunfire. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The Green Howards Museum has loaned the medal from the National Football Museum. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The exhibition explores the close relationship between football and military life within the Green Howards regiment.

It also highlights the contributions of women in football, the role of the sport in prisoner of war camps, and the achievements of Middlesbrough’s Wilf Mannion.

Advertisement

Objects on display have been loaned by the National Football Museum and The Players’ Foundations.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Thousands watch Jorvik Viking Festival 2026’s climax

Published

on

Thousands watch Jorvik Viking Festival 2026's climax

Vikings, Saxons, herbalists and others from the Viking era in England gathered in Deans Park next to York Minster.

They chanted Viking battle cries and shouted about Ragnorak and other Nordic God myths as they marched past the cathedral and past the Festival encampment to Coppergate and the Eye of York by Cliffords Tower.

Among the reenactors was one representing St Olaf of Norway with his Christian escort and cross bearer.

“St Olaf” (centre) with his cross-bearer and escort at the Jorvik Viking Festival (Image: Newsquest)

At the end of the march the march split into two sides to fight the Battle of York on the Eye of York in the big set piece climax of the 2026 festival.

Advertisement

Tickets for all the main events of the weeklong festival were sold out weeks in advance.

From late morning onwards the streets of York were full of companies of warriors going to the gathering place behind York Minster.

They had come from all over England, with some travelling from Somerset and Blackpool to take part in what is believed to be the biggest Viking festival in Europe.

As they mustered, the musicians who were to lead the march entertained crowds in Parliament Street.

Advertisement

Musicians entertain the crown before the March to Coppergate at the Jorvik Viking Festival (Image: Newsquest)

Watching the warrior horde assemble were Christine and Michael Platts of Wakefield, who had come to York to visit the Minster, noticed the Vikings and stopped to watch.

“It’s amazing,” said retired teacher Christine. “To see history come alive like this is what we need. It makes history more real.”

They are now planning to return next year specifically to see the 2027 festival.

Her teenage granddaughter Priya was so impressed by the standard of the costumes and what the re-enactors who formed the march were doing that she wanted to know how she could join in.

Advertisement

Viking and Saxon reenactors at the Jorvik Viking Festival (Image: Newsquest)

Among the reenactors were some dressed in Saxon costumes.

“At the end of it there is going to be a big fight. There needs to be two sides,” explained Saxon “Oswic” and “AEsc” who were in company with Viking “Gunnar Sigurdson”.

They were part of a Northumberland re-enactment group that draws its members from a wide area of Yorkshire and the North-east.

They included a group of three women specialising in Saxon and Viking herbs. Susan Davison, Kirstin Mclauchlin and Verity were there to help the wounded and injured following the battle and had a bit of spinning to do while the men fought.

Advertisement

Viking ladies ready to provide herbal first aid to the wounded and injured after the battle (Image: Newsquest)

Reenactors represented anyone from the Viking Era in England, roughly 793 to 1066, were among the marchers.

One young man arrived dressed as St Olaf (King of Norway 1015 to 1028) who died aged 35.

Shortly after 2.15pm, the hundreds in Viking and Saxon fighting gear left the park to the sound of horns and drums, marched through Minster Yard, round the Minster to Stonegate and passed the Viking encampment which has been in place all week.

Their route was lined with tourists, local people and visitors to the festival to see the spectacle.

Advertisement

From Parliament Street they marched past Jorvik Viking Centre, through Coppergate and past Clifford’s Tower to the Eye of York.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Bruno Tonioli’s Britain’s Got Talent exit explained after judge quit after two years

Published

on

Daily Mirror

Britain’s Got Talent returns on Saturday night – but without former Strictly star Bruno Tonioli as he quit the show in 2025 after just two years of service

Britain’s Got Talent fans will notice Bruno Tonioli is missing from the line-up when the show returns to ITV on Saturday night. The former Strictly Come Dancing judge exited the series after just two years.

Advertisement

Head judge Simon Cowell will be joined as usual by presenter Amanda Holden and singer Alesha Dixon as the long-running series returns for a 19th season. And the Bruno-shaped hole has been seamlessly filled by YouTube sensation KSI, who BGT fans will recall appeared on the 2025 season as a guest judge.

Fans of the ITV talent show were surprised when Bruno ditched rival BBC show Strictly to join the panel in 2023, replacing controversial judge David Walliams, who appeared on the panel from 2012 until 2022. After just two years and three seasons of red and golden buzzer bashing, Bruno decided it was time to vacate his Got Talent chair – but reportedly left the show on good terms. Here is a look back at the reason Bruno quit Britain’s Got Talent.

Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

READ MORE: Man who struggled to lose weight sheds 7 stone and gets abs after spotting Instagram ad READ MORE: Amanda Holden breaks silence on Celeb Traitors and ‘boring boring’ Strictly names

Advertisement

Why did Bruno Tonioli quit Britain’s Got Talent in 2025?

Despite appearing on BGT for three seasons, Bruno Tonioli is arguably still best known for being a judge on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing from 2004 until 2019. The Italian TV star is also a judge on the American version of Strictly – Dancing With The Stars – and has appeared on the panel across the Atlantic since 2005.

While Bruno had been able to balance judging both Strictly and DWTS, the filming schedule for Britain’s Got Talent proved to be too challenging – with clashes ultimately forcing Bruno to walk away. In a statement released last year, Bruno explained why he was leaving the ITV show – and threw his support behind his replacement.

Advertisement

The 70-year-old star said: “After three incredible series, I’ve sadly had to walk away from a job which has opened my eyes to so much incredible talent and step down as a judge on BGT.

“And whilst I look forward to filming a new series of Dancing with the Stars in the US, I will miss the chaos and joy that BGT brings, as well as all the wonderful people I’ve had the privilege of working with. They truly are a brilliant team who make brilliant television, and I know KSI will be a fantastic judge too, as he’s already proven this year.”

Bruno previously opened up to the Daily Mail about the strain the constant travel between the UK and the USA was having on him. He revealed: “There is no animosity, it was a mutual decision with both of us saying, ‘Listen, this is not going to work like it used to.’ I just couldn’t do the flying anymore. I don’t know how I survived that schedule. To be honest, it’s a miracle.”

What has KSI said of replacing Bruno as a BGT judge?

Britain’s Got Talent fans will recall seeing YouTube star and rapper KSI – real name Olajide Olatunji, 32 – filling in for Bruno at certain points during the 2025 season as his busy schedule kept him away from the UK. After wowing audiences as well as the fellow judges, KSI seemed like an obvious choice to take over from Bruno full-time.

The rap star has been enthusiastic about his promotion as a full-time judge – and vowed to help the panel uncover more undisputable talent via the ITV show. He said in a past statement: “I’m so grateful and happy to be a part of Britain’s Got Talent team for another season.”

He added: “I had such a good time last year, and I can’t wait to see some more top talent. I’m full of energy, ready to go, and can’t wait to make this the most entertaining BGT season ever. Let’s do this.”

What has Simon Cowell said about losing Bruno as a judge?

While head judge Simon Cowell, 66, has not explicitly commented on Bruno’s BGT exit, it has been reported that he supported the dance expert’s decision to leave – and consulted his young son Eric, 12, before announcing KSI as a replacement. A source told The Sun last year: “Simon’s been friends with Bruno for over 35 years and loved working with him on BGT.

“It was really tough knowing he had to let Bruno go because they couldn’t get the filming dates to work out with his commitments on Dancing with the Stars. Simon is always looking for new ways to keep the show evolving and loves to get the opinion of his young son. Eric was a big influence for Simon in choosing Bruno’s replacement. He’s obsessed with him and adores him. KSI is Eric’s favourite influencer. Plus, he’s been such a hit as a guest judge, and Simon recognises they need to keep the show different by moving forward to keep attracting the younger audience.”

The source added: “Bruno was popular with the grannies, but KSI is for the youngsters. KSI has a huge social media presence and Simon knows how important it is to keep the show more modern.”

Britain’s Got Talent returns to ITV and ITVX on Saturday night at 7pm.

Advertisement

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

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Is this the nastiest Manchester by-election ever?

Published

on

Manchester Evening News

There have been shenanigans, s***stirring and enough hot air to create a new microclimate.

But there have also been complaints to the police, security details and an effigy placed outside a primary school.

With a week to go before voters head to the polls in Gorton and Denton there is no sign of the temperature dropping. From the kick-off this has been a nasty campaign.

Try MEN Premium NOW for just £1

Advertisement

The backbiting and fighting among the three frontrunners – standing for Labour, the Green Party and Reform UK – has been, at times, brutal.

Pushing for change in an area held by Labour for decades are the Green Party’s Hannah Spencer and Reform UK’s Matt Goodwin – two bullish candidates diametrically opposed in their politics. Both mobilised quickly, pounding the pavements, leafleting like mad and being bombastically on brand during well-attended rallies.

Slower out of the blocks thanks to Labour’s headline-grabbing blocking of Andy Burnham and a long-winded selection process, was Angeliki Stogia. But even before Labour had picked a candidate, the party had seized on their rivals.

When Reform’s chief whip Lee Anderson appeared to start a campaign trail in the wrong constituency, Angela Rayner couldn’t resist poking fun at the party’s map reading skills.

The Greens were also mocked for a series of leafleting typos in which they misspelt Gorton as ‘Gorten’.

So far, so fair. Then things ramped up.

Advertisement

Reform announced they had reported Labour to Greater Manchester Police over an allegedly ‘misleading’ video attacking Mr Goodwin.

A few days later, Labour Party chair Anna Turley wrote to Mr Goodwin urging him to make clear whether he would welcome the support of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who had appeared to endorse the Reform candidate on X.

Reform said they had been “consistently clear” that Robinson “isn’t welcome in the party”.

Advertisement

And when residents raised concerns about an endorsement letter for Reform that didn’t have a required marker confirming it had been produced for the party – they blamed the printers, who apologised.

Professor of political science Robert Ford was surprised to find himself featuring on two of the Greens’ leaflets and “taken out of context” – something the party apologised for.

Meanwhile, a Conservative party canvasser was caught on a doorbell camera taking a Reform leaflet out of a resident’s letter box in Denton and putting it in the bin.

And in the latest twist in the saga, police are investigating a complaint of ‘treating’ after a Labour event in Levenshulme during which it appears attendees were asked to hold up Labour flyers “ if you want to get fed”.

Advertisement

If you were under any illusion as to the savage nature of this campaign, you need only look at the leaflets that have dropped through the door.

Reform UK’s leafleting claims the Greens want to “open borders” and will “make Keir Starmer’s mess worse”.

Green leaflets say Reform “divides communities”, describes Mr Goodwin as an “out-of-town Reform candidate in it for himself” and claim Labour is “in chaos”.

Advertisement

Labour leaflets say “Reform’s racist candidate thinks non-white people can’t be British and has been backed by far-right convicted criminal Tommy Robinson” and claim the Greens are “misleading voters”.

On the ground, the anger generated by this by-election has trickled down to some strange tactics – some more disturbing than others.

On the one hand, you’ve got Labour sticking a massive poster right next to the Green Party headquarters – only for the Greens to respond in kind.

On the other, you’ve got someone leaving an effigy with a note saying “dead lefty f*** Greens” outside a primary school in Levenshulme. If that doesn’t shock you, I’m afraid you’ve lost all sense of perspective.

The truth is, nobody campaigning in Gorton and Denton has had an easy time over the last month.

Ms Stogia has the unenviable task of attempting to cling onto a seat for a party deeply wounded by scandal. As if the drama surrounding retiring Labour MP Andrew Gwynne wasn’t bad enough, her campaign started in earnest just as the full extent of Peter Mandelson’s alleged involvement with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein became clear.

It can’t have been an easy task campaigning under the Labour banner during what some have described as the worst scandal since the Profumo Affair.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, Ms Spencer has repeatedly had to contend with scrutiny over her personal life. She responded in a good natured way to claims she was married to a millionaire and owns a huge gated property in Hale with a weird chimney.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

But she has put the scrutiny down to a vein of misogyny running through media coverage of the campaign.

As for Mr Goodwin, he was picked up by Ms Stogia during the Manchester Evening News hustings for using private security while he has ‘pedalled rhetoric’ she claimed has made others feel unsafe. But the Reform man said his security detail was necessary “because I have very real threats in an area where people assure me everything is fine”.

Reform UK and the Green Party both claimed in their literature that the contest is a “two-horse race”, with Labour battling for third – a suggestion they vehemently deny.

Advertisement

But it’s testament to the desperation of Labour to cling onto this formerly safe seat that they have brought out the big dogs. Sadiq Khan, Angela Rayner, Ed Miliband and of course ‘King of the North’ Andy Burnham have all shown up to offer their support for Ms Stogia.

For Labour, there is much at stake. A loss in Gorton and Denton could spell disaster for Keir Starmer whose opponents claim the by-election is a referendum on his government.

Ms Stogia has repeatedly accused her opponents of “shouting for the sidelines”, claiming that their untested policies would fall flat if they took over the reins of power. But there is much at stake for the Greens and Reform too.

Advertisement

A loss in an area where both claim to have easily hoovered up voters would sting. But Nigel Farage and Zack Polanski will be able to make hay with any outcome.

Both have no doubt gained voters during this by-election, even if their candidates lose. And both have proved that polarising politics has a place in the UK.

Throughout the campaign, the candidates have accused each other of spreading misinformation. So I’d urge anyone able to vote in the Gorton and Denton by-election next Thursday to research them all thoroughly – even The Official Monster Raving Loony Party’s Sir Oink-a-lot, who is promising to bring home the bacon.

There are eleven candidates hoping to take control of Gorton and Denton – and a basic annual salary of £93,904.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

‘Kind, selfless’ mum, 47, dies eight days after attack with murder case launched | News UK

Published

on

'Kind, selfless' mum, 47, dies eight days after attack with murder case launched | News UK
Helen Bird, 47, was seriously injured and died just eight days after an alleged assault inside a property in Northamptonshire (Picture: Northamptonshire Police)

A mum who died more than a week after being attacked at her home has been described as ‘kind, selfless and loyal’ by her family in a moving statement.

Helen Bird, 47, was seriously injured inside a property on High Street, Chelveston, Northamptonshire, on February 2.

She died in hospital eight days later.

Police have launched a murder investigation, and a 50-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident.

Advertisement

Helen’s family paid tribute to the mother-of-two, describing her as ‘a wonderful woman who had everything to live for’.

Sign up for all of the latest stories

Start your day informed with Metro’s News Updates newsletter or get Breaking News alerts the moment it happens.

Advertisement

‘Helen was a deeply loved daughter, devoted mother of two, sister and friend,’ the family wrote in a statement shared by police.

Google Maps image showing a road, part of a junction and some grass in a residential area in England
Helen Bird was seriously injured after an alleged assault inside a property on High Street, Chelveston, Northamptonshire

‘She was kind, selfless and loyal to her family, with her children always at the centre of her world.

‘Helen’s warmth, compassion and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.

‘We are devastated by her loss and immensely proud of the woman she was.’

The family have asked for privacy, and thanked all those who have shown support.

Advertisement

They added: ‘Helen will always be loved and forever remembered.’

Members of the local community have also paid tribute, including Andrew Seaman, chair Chelveston-cum-Caldecott Parish Council, who expressed his shock at Helen’s death.

A woman smiling in to the camera while sat a bar and holding a glass of champagne
Family described Helen Bird as a ‘kind, selfless and loyal mother’ (Picture: Northamptonshire Police)

‘It’s the first time we have had something like this happen in the village, I think,’ he told The Daily Mail.

‘I didn’t know the lady, but what has happened is a terrible shock, and my thoughts are with her family.’

Northamptonshire Police has urged anyone with information to contact the force.

Advertisement

In a statement following Helen’s death, Detective Inspector Matt Bly said: ‘Our thoughts are with everyone who loved this woman at what is a very distressing time, and specially trained officers are supporting her family.

‘Although we are not looking for anyone else in connection with her murder, I would ask anyone with any information to contact us.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

Advertisement

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

HMO above Durham Silver Street shop approved by council

Published

on

HMO above Durham Silver Street shop approved by council

The proposal involves converting the upper floors of No. 13 Silver Street into a five-bed HMO.

It will be independently accessed from Silver Street, meaning the shop front of Moon Jewellery will undergo some changes.

While the upper floors undergo conversion, the ground floor will continue to operate as a retail outlet.

Advertisement

In a statement, it was confirmed that the proposal aims to preserve and enhance the conservation area by bringing the upper floors back into use, with the heritage impact assessed as negligible.

The City of Durham Trust objected to the application, highlighting the lack of condition surveys and concerns over the design.

 “The Trust objects to this application based on lack of appropriate condition assessment, information, maintenance proposals, and design of ground floor entrance,” it said.

Proposals were approved by Durham County Council on February 18.

Advertisement

Limitations on construction hours were set, and sound measures are to be implemented.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Trump vows to raise worldwide tariffs to 15% ‘effective immediately’

Published

on

Trump vows to raise worldwide tariffs to 15% ‘effective immediately’

President Donald Trump has vowed to raise worldwide tariffs to 15 percent, up from 10 percent, “effective immediately,” he said in a Truth Social post Saturday following a defeat in the Supreme Court.

The move comes as the Supreme Court yesterday ruled his sweeping global tariffs, ushered in under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, were unlawfully imposed. He used the act to charge huge levies on countries, including 50 percent on India, which was later reduced, and 34 percent on China.

Speaking from the White House briefing room Friday, a seething Trump called the 6-3 Supreme Court ruling striking down much of his unilateral tariff policy “deeply disappointing” and said he was “absolutely ashamed” of the Republican appointees on the court who’d failed to back his signature policy.

Trump said he was bumping up the tariffs to 15 percent “based on a thorough, detailed, and complete review of the ridiculous, poorly written, and extraordinarily anti-American decision on Tariffs issued yesterday.”

Advertisement

“Please let this statement serve to represent that I, as President of the United States of America, will be, effective immediately, raising the 10% Worldwide Tariff on Countries, many of which have been “ripping” the U.S. off for decades, without retribution (until I came along!), to the fully allowed, and legally tested, 15% level,” Trump said.

President Donald Trump has vowed to raise worldwide tariffs to 15 percent, up from 10 percent, “effective immediately,” he said in a Truth Social post Saturday following a defeat in the Supreme Court

President Donald Trump has vowed to raise worldwide tariffs to 15 percent, up from 10 percent, “effective immediately,” he said in a Truth Social post Saturday following a defeat in the Supreme Court (AFP/Getty)

“During the next short number of months, the Trump Administration will determine and issue the new and legally permissible Tariffs, which will continue our extraordinarily successful process of Making America Great Again – GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE!!!” the president wrote on his social media platform.

The White House shared the president’s Truth Social to its official X account.

Advertisement

Trump also hailed Justice Brett Kavanaugh his “new hero” after he sided with the president, as did Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito.

“My new hero is United States Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and, of course, Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito,” Trump said in another Truth Social post. “There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that they want to, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

After the court’s decision, Trump announced he would instead use the 1974 Trade Act to continue his tariff agenda. But the Trade Act only allows a maximum tariff of 15 percent and comes with a limit of 150 days, unless Congress votes to extend it.

“The president asserts the extraordinary power to unilaterally impose tariffs of unlimited amount, duration, and scope. In light of the breadth, history, and constitutional context of that asserted authority, he must identify clear congressional authorization to exercise it,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in a 6-3 decision Friday.

Advertisement
The Supreme Court ruling is a blow to Trump, who used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to charge huge levies on countries, including 50 percent on India, which was later reduced, and 34 percent on China

The Supreme Court ruling is a blow to Trump, who used the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to charge huge levies on countries, including 50 percent on India, which was later reduced, and 34 percent on China (Getty Images)

Conservative Justices Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett, both appointed by Trump, joined Roberts as well as liberal Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson in ruling against the president.

Trump and his aides have expected a negative ruling in the case for months and have been preparing other authorities for taxing imports — which, like tariffs, are ultimately shouldered by consumers — but those other avenues are far more limited than the broad powers Trump had asserted for himself.

He also threatened to invoke Section 338 of the 1930 Tariff Act to impose as much as a 50 percent tax on imports from countries that discriminate against American products. That portion of the United States Code has its roots in the infamous Smoot-Hawley tariff enacted during the Great Depression — with the effect of worsening the economic devastation caused by the stock market crash a year earlier — and has never been used by a president in the modern era.

Advertisement

The ruling does not impact all of Trump’s tariffs, just those brought under the 1970s law. That includes “reciprocal” tariffs on other countries since he announced that policy during an April event on what he’d dubbed “Liberation Day” as well as tariffs specifically imposed on Canada, China and Mexico to stop the flow of fentanyl.

Tariffs imposed on specific sectors, such as aluminum or steel — some of which date back to his first term —can remain in place.

Ariana Baio and Andrew Feinberg contributed to this report

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Six Nations 2026: England 21-42 Ireland – Visitors deliver record away win

Published

on

Tommy O'Brien celebrates

England: Steward; Freeman, Lawrence, Dingwall, Arundell; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, Cowan-Dickie, Heyes, Itoje, Chessum, T Curry, Earl, Pollock

Replacements: George, Rodd, Davison, Coles, Pepper, Underhill, Van Poortvliet, M Smith

Ireland: Osborne; Baloucoune, Ringrose, McCloskey, Lowe; Crowley, Gibson-Park; Loughman, Sheehan, Furlong, Ryan, McCarthy, Beirne, Van der Flier, Doris (capt).

Replacements: Kelleher, O’Toole, Bealham, C Prendergast, Timoney, Casey, Frawley, O’Brien

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

NewsBeat

Bolton antiques dealer defends sale of Golly figurines

Published

on

Bolton antiques dealer defends sale of Golly figurines

The two eight-piece sets, on sale for £240 each at Gilly’s Antiques in Bolton, have sparked a debate over racism and historical context.

Graham Wilson, owner of Gilly’s Antiques, told the Bolton News: “We deal in vintage and antique items.

“There are a lot of things which, if you apply today’s viewpoint, you could be critical of.

“But taken in the context of when they were made, they weren’t considered to be racist by the standards of that time.

Advertisement

“I simply offer a full and very broad range of items found in house clearances.

“If you think that applying a current viewpoint on racism retrospectively to vintage or antique items is correct, I think you are being very naive.”

The figures, which date back to the 1950s and 1960s, were promotional items for Robertson’s jam and marmalade.

They have long been considered collectables, but their origins are widely criticised as a racist caricature.

Advertisement

The items came under fire after being advertised on Facebook, with one commenter saying: “Oh nice, casually racist figurines, that’s a really good look for your business.”

Mr Wilson said antiques often include objects that reflect outdated and sometimes offensive social attitudes.

He said: “With antiques, it’s natural to come across outdated things.

“I don’t know what I’m going to find; some things today people might find offensive.”

Advertisement

He compared the Golly debate to collectors’ interest in other controversial historical artefacts.

The Golly figurines have caused a mixed response online (Image: Gilly’s Antiques)

He said: “In the Second World War, in the Army, people would come back with mementoes from the war.

“Some of it could be Nazi memorabilia.

“I can understand that not being accepted in today’s society, but out there is a niche market.

Advertisement

“Engravings or prints of slavery, for example, an antique print depicting slavery, what do you do, rip it up and throw it away?

“It’s a difficult one.”

He also drew comparisons with other once-acceptable items, such as furniture containing ivory or memorabilia linked to outdated television shows.

Mr Wilson said: “At the time they were manufactured, things like the Black and White Minstrel Show were perfectly acceptable.

Advertisement

“Many TV shows wouldn’t be put on air now.

“So many things in my business have to be viewed in the context in which they were made.

“Do you take everything off sale simply because times and views change?

“Where do you draw the line?”

Advertisement

He said the antiques trade routinely confronts questions of taste, history, and changing cultural standards.

He said: “Anything could be considered offensive to someone.

“I accept everyone has a right to their own view.”

The Golly character was retired from Robertson’s branding in 2001.

Advertisement

The Facebook post from Gilly’s Antiques sparked a divided response from the public.

One supporter wrote: “Back in the day, the Robertsons’ figures weren’t classed as racist.

“I loved collecting the little stickers on the jam jars.”

Advertisement

Another recalled: “My grandma worked for Robertson when I was little and had every single figurine.

“I think employees were given them.”

A third said: “I have a beautiful handmade golly that was gifted to me.

“He sits in pride of place amongst the old teddies I have too — a cherished item.”

Advertisement

Others, however, argued that the figures should never have been considered acceptable.

One commenter wrote: “Not classed as racist by white people, I expect.

“As anecdotally, I’ve heard otherwise.”

Another added: “They are racist, now and ‘back then’. They are stereotypical caricatures of black people. To deny that is simply ignorant.”

Advertisement

Mr Wilson confirmed the figures are still for sale.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

NewsBeat

The best places to eat in Ripon near TV filming location

Published

on

The best places to eat in Ripon near TV filming location

On Wednesday (February 18), Nicholas Ralph and Rachel Shenton, from All Creatures Great and Small, were seen at Summerbridge Methodist Church, near Ripon.

The actor and actress, who play James and Helen Herriot, were all smiles, as the church captioned a photo of the pair: “Look who visited the Summerbridge Methodist Church HUB Community Cafe today.”

Despite some parts filmed in Grassington, other sections of the TV show are filmed in Nidderdale, where Summerbridge Methodist Church is located.

Advertisement

And for those wanting to visit the nearby Ripon, there are plenty of foody hotspots to keep the tastebuds satisfied on a TV celeb hunt.

Here are five of the best places to eat in Ripon, according to TripAdvisor reviews:

Realitea
Location: 84 North Street, Ripon, Ripon HG4 1DP
Opening times: Sunday: Closed, Monday: Closed, Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 15:00, Saturday: 10:00 – 15:30
Rating: 4.9

Realitea is a tea room and occasional Indian bistro located in the historic city of Ripon. It has an extensive menu offering food throughout the day.

Advertisement

One satisfied customer said: “Perfect Anglo-Indian Tea-room. An amazing array of leaf teas, some blended in house.

“We went twice as the food was so good and the staff, and owner, friendly, helpful and approachable.

“All the food was cooked to order and delicious. The cakes, also made inhouse daily, are great. I most heartily recommend the orange and saffron cake. I’ve never tasted anything like it.”


Mario’s Restaurant
Location: 27 Kirkgate, Ripon HG4 1PB
Opening times: Sunday: Closed, Monday: Closed, Tuesday to Saturday: 16:30 – 21:30
Rating: 4.7

Advertisement

Mario’s Restaurant is a favourite among many travellers known for its charming fairy lights and Italian music that create a warm dining experience.

One customer said: “Great authentic Italian restaurant. Good value no frills but excellent service. Will definitely go again.

“I had the lobster ravioli which was one of the best I’ve had and was a very generous portion. Strongly recommend.”


Wilfrid’s Cafe
Location: 29-30 Kirkgate, Ripon, Ripon HG4 1PB
Opening times: Sunday: 08:30 – 16:00, Monday: 09:00 – 16:00, Tuesday: 09:00 – 16:00, Wednesday: Closed, Thursday: 09:00 – 16:00, Friday: 09:00 – 16:00, Saturday: 08:30 – 17:00
Rating: 4.8

Advertisement

Wilfrid’s Cafe is an independent family-run business located near Ripon Cathedral. They offer fresh homemade meals and delectable cakes suitable for various dietary needs.

One TripAdvisor contributor said: “We popped in off the cuff and only just made it 15 mins before closure. No problem, lovely cake and tea came with smiling faces from the staff.

“We were not hurried out and had a lovely time. Recommend this place wholeheartedly.”


Chimes Cafe
Location: 14-15 Kirkgate, Ripon HG4 1PA
Opening times: Sunday: Closed, Monday: 10:30 – 14:30, Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 16:00, Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Rating: 4.8

Advertisement

Chimes Cafe is a friendly coffee shop serving homemade food made with locally sourced ingredients, renowned for their famous scones and cakes.

A customer said: “Absolutely lovely from start to finish. I’ve been visiting this place for quite sometime and always found everything to be excellent.

“The staff are friendly and the quality of the homemade food is exceptional. I’m really happy I found this place.”

The Yorkshire Tearoom
Location: 38 Kirkgate, Ripon, Ripon HG4 1PB
Opening times: Sunday: 10:30 – 15:00, Monday: Closed, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday to Friday: 10:00 – 15:30, Saturday: 10:00 – 15:30
Rating: 4.9

Advertisement

The Yorkshire Tearoom is celebrated for its generous portions, homemade quality, and reasonable prices, boasting excellent value.

A customer said: “Made space for two on a very busy Thursday lunch time. A very friendly young girl found us a table and our order was taken by an extremely helpful lady who I think was the owner.

“My husband’s toasted sandwich was lovely and my cheese scone was perfect cheese inside and out well risen, fluffy and warm.”

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025