But along a quiet stretch of canal in Little Lever, they’re impossible to ignore.

On warm summer days, colourful wings drift through the wildflowers at Nob End Nature Reserve, creating one of Bolton’s most spectacular free wildlife experiences just minutes from the town centre.

Running alongside the former Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal, the reserve has become a haven for some of Britain’s best-loved butterflies, from the striking peacock to the bright yellow brimstone, while dragonflies skim across the water and orchids bloom beneath them.

Peacock butterfly (Image: NQ)

It is a far cry from the area’s industrial past.

Nob End, close to the Meccano Bridge off Boscow Road, was once used for dumping waste from the local chemical industry.

(Image: NQ)

Yet the lime-rich ground left behind created something remarkably rare – a species-rich calcareous grassland that is now protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Today, that unusual habitat is one of the reasons butterflies thrive here.

During a recent Butterflies of Bolton walk organised by Groundwork Greater Manchester, visitors were treated to sightings of several species as they fluttered between the flowers lining the towpath.

Andrew spoke to the group about all types of species of butterfly (Image: NQ)

Among them was the peacock butterfly, instantly recognisable by the four colourful ‘eyes’ on its wings.

Those markings aren’t just for show either – they’re designed to startle hungry birds, while the butterfly can even make a faint hissing sound if disturbed.

This is almost certainly another Peacock butterfly with its wings closed (Image: NQ)

You may also spot the brimstone gliding through the reserve.

Its vivid lemon-yellow wings are so distinctive that many historians believe it inspired the word “butterfly” itself, while its clever leaf-shaped wings help it disappear when it settles among the trees.

The small tortoiseshell is another regular visitor.

Although common in gardens, it depends almost entirely on humble nettles during its caterpillar stage, proving that leaving patches of wild plants untouched can make a huge difference for wildlife.

In the shadier parts of the towpath, keep an eye out for the speckled wood.

Small Heath (Image: NQ)

Unlike many butterflies, it has flourished as Britain’s climate has warmed, extending its range across northern England over recent decades.

The butterflies are only part of the attraction.

Dragonflies patrol the canal throughout the summer, bees buzz between the wildflowers and rare orchids bloom across the grassland that has transformed this once-industrial landscape into one of Greater Manchester’s richest wildlife sites.

The route starts from Meccano Bridge on Boscow Road in Little Lever (BL3 1AB), , although it can also be reached from Moses Gate Country Park or by catching the 524 bus from Bolton town centre.

There is no admission fee, no booking required and no set route to follow.

All you really need is a warm, dry afternoon, a little patience and your eyes on the flowers.

With the summer holidays now under way, it might just be one of Bolton’s most underrated free days out.

There are proposals to introduce 20mph speed restrictions on more roads in Cambridge

People are divided over proposals to introduce new 20mph speed restrictions across several roads in Cambridge. Some people said it would be a “waste of time” while others claimed it could change driving habits.

New 20mph limits are proposed for several roads around the city. More than 100 people have been seriously injured across these routes since 2017, according to Cambridgeshire County Council.

A consultation period is running from July 1 to August 5, 2026. The proposed 20mph speed limits include: Chesterton Lane, Chesterton Road (Mitcham’s Corner to Magdalene Bridge), Corona Road, Milton Road (Mitcham’s Corner junction only), and Northampton Street.

Several more are included as part of the proposals. The roads where 20mph limits are now being put forward include routes where there was the most support for reduced speed limits, as well as several known crash locations, the council said.

CambridgeshireLive spoke with locals about their thoughts on the possible changes. A 39-year-old woman who works in Cambridge said she would like to see this introduced because cars “fly around” the area near Chesterton Road “all the time”.

The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said she doesn’t think the roads are unsafe and that 30mph is “standard” in many areas. She said some motorists would “absolutely not” adhere to 20mph.

She added: “I don’t think it’s a bad thing, but I think it takes a lot of discipline, especially people who know this area, who have been driving here for a long time. It’s a lot of education on a speed limit change.”

She emphasised the city’s popularity among cyclists and that motorists have to be “more conscious in Cambridge”, adding “you’re always a little bit on guard anyway”. For this reason, the speed restriction proposals “make total sense” to her.

Former Cambridgeshire County Council councillor Susan van de Ven said introducing speed restrictions in other villages has been a “real success”. She feels it would have the same impact in Cambridge.

She said: “They are often really controversial but you can tell that people’s driving habits change and you get used to it and where they measure it a year later you can see.

“I absolutely support it. The chances of a small child surviving being hit by a car are night and day with lower speed limits. So, it may be inconvenient, but it’s not really going to change your day.”

She highlighted that introducing a new speed restriction “doesn’t cost much”, adding 20mph is a “complete change of culture” and a “different way of driving a car which is a long term thing”. Ms van de Ven said that lower speed restrictions have had a “beneficial impact”.

Duncan McCallun, 73, said the restrictions would “make it even slower to get around Cambridge than it is at the moment”. He believes this is not a good use of the council’s money and it could be better spent on repairing and preventing potholes.

He added: “It’d be the same. I’m not sure there’s much difference between 20 and 30[mph]. I’m not sure it’d make much difference.” He said that the negative impacts outweigh the positives.

Olena Tarasova said she would like to see these restrictions introduced because she has children and thinks 20mph could deter people from speeding, especially “if it is a legal requirement”. The 49-year-old believes it could prevent a crash as its a “very cycle kind of city” and feels it would protect them more.

Andrew May, 65, who lives in Cambridge, said he would “absolutely not” like to see this speed limit introduced. He added: “I think it’s really quite a ridiculous thing. It’s completely unnecessary. The sort of people who wouldn’t obey a 20mph limit are going to flout it anyway, because they’re already flouting 30.”

He said he “absolutely” believes the roads across Cambridge are “remarkably safe” as they are, adding “people have to slow down anyway because of the traffic conditions”.

His other concern is that he suspects those who breach the limit are “much less likely to sit behind someone who is doing 20mph and they will do something incredibly stupid and dangerous like overtake”.

He also emphasised that many people who use a vehicle to commute elsewhere, claiming “we shouldn’t be making their lives more difficult, their commute longer, and increase the pollution as a result”. Mr May feels as though it is “trying to solve a non-existent problem”, adding the proposals are “absolutely bonkers”.

Councillor Alex Beckett, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council’s Highways & Transport Committee, said: “There are far too many deaths and injuries on our roads. It’s clear that 20mph limits can make a huge difference in improving safety especially for our most vulnerable road users – children.

“We’ve taken on feedback from the past engagement and have created a bespoke scheme for the city. The revised proposals focus on routes where over 100 people have suffered serious injuries since 2017 and where 20mph limits would make a big difference in keeping people safe.

“I urge everyone to let us know their thoughts on the proposals as part of this consultation so we can understand the views of local residents, businesses and community groups and then make the best decision for everyone.”

According to the county council, a person is around five times more likely to be killed when hit by a motor vehicle at 30mph than at 20mph. After the consultation on the proposed traffic regulation order, the results will be reviewed by road safety officers and councillors.

A decision on whether to go ahead with all, some, or none of the proposals will be taken by the Highways and Transport Committee in the winter, with any changes to the roads made in early 2027.

Spain and Lamine Yamal have grown through the tournament to leave him with the world at his feet and football’s two greatest prizes in his pocket.

As well as having glorious natural gifts, he is also Spain’s lucky charm. They completed their domination of the international stage with Ferran Torres’ decisive 106th-minute strike in extra time.

Lamine Yamal has yet to lose for his country in the 28 competitive matches he has played. He has started 13 games at major tournaments and won all of them – the longest 100% win rate of any European player across major tournaments when starting.

He also became – along with 19-year-old Spain team-mate Pau Cubarsi – just the fourth and fifth teenagers to start a World Cup final and win, after Pele for Brazil in 1958, Italy defender Giuseppe Bergomi in 1982 and Kylian Mbappe with France in 2018.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente spoke afterwards of his “sincere gratitude” to Lamine Yamal.

“He has played great football that will help him to mature and be even a greater footballer than he already is,” he said.

“He really sacrificed for the collective good. This is very important in my squad. In my opinion he played a great World Cup.”

And this is not simply a special talent, it is a special talent with a special temperament.

He shrugged off Argentina’s obvious attempts to intimidate him as he regularly came into close contact with Nicolas Tagliafico in particular.

Former England goalkeeper and BBC Sport pundit Joe Hart summed it up well.

“Not only did Lamine Yamal not react,” he said. “He stood up to it. He was not rattled and he did not back down. He had the entire team trying to smash him.

“He just stayed real cool. It was real standout performance from him.

“Lamine Yamal is 19 years old. What a beautiful day for him. He’s 19 and has completed football.”

With virtually his whole career in front of him, and taking in the experience and influence of Spain team-mates such as his captain and player of the tournament Rodri, there is every chance Lamine Yamal will add more successes like this before he is done.

A newly surfaced clip shows Andrew Tate appearing to try and discreetly pass his phone toward a bodyguard while US Marshals placed him in handcuffs. 

Brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate were arrested Saturday in Miami as they face 59 new criminal charges, including child pornography, extreme pornography, and rape. 

Andrew, wearing an unbuttoned purple shirt, silver chains, sunglasses and cropped jeans, was handcuffed by US Marshals outside the James L Knight Center. 

The arrest video has sparked online speculation over a moment when Andrew appears to grab his phone and extend it toward a security guard before being detained. 

The phone is then seen on the floor, as another law enforcement officer appeared to retrieve it from the ground. 

It is unclear if US Marshals took possession of Tate’s cellphone during the dramatic arrest. 

Authorities then cuffed him, taking off Andrew’s flashy chains as he was apprehended. 

In a statement, Tate’s attorney Joseph McBride blasted the new charges levied against the brothers.

‘The world knows Andrew and Tristan Tate are innocent. Their enemies know it best of all. That is exactly why they have been attacked,’ the statement said.

Brothers Andrew and Tristan Tate were arrested Saturday in Miami

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The Tates face 59 new criminal charges, including child pornography, extreme pornography, and rape

McBride slammed the new charges as a ‘political hit’ aimed at countering the brothers’ defamation case in the US.

‘We are confident that once a competent judge sees the facts, and once the Department of Justice confronts this egregious abuse of its own authority, Andrew and Tristan Tate will walk free. America does not do Britain’s political dirty work,’ he said.

The Tates were taken into custody just moments before Andrew was due to host a bareknuckle boxing event.

The pending charges accuse Andrew, 39, and Tristan, 37, of abusing women between July 2010 and August 2017, and the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is seeking to have the pair extradited. 

Andrew faces seven further counts of rape, three counts of arranging or facilitating trafficking for sexual exploitation, three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and 19 additional charges for offences relating to indecent images of a child and extreme pornography. 

Tristan is being charged with one count of sexual assault, two counts of rape and three counts of arranging or facilitating trafficking for sexual exploitation.

The brothers have strongly denied any wrongdoing. 

Andrew and Tristan’s arrest comes just days after the Daily Mail revealed that they met with Texan Republican Rep Wesley Hunt in his congressional office in Washington. 

Authorities then cuffed him, taking off Andrew’s flashy chains as he was apprehended

Authorities swarmed the pair as they apprehended them

Former kickboxers Andrew and Tristan Tate at the UFC 313 in Las Vegas in March 2025

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Hours before his arrest Saturday, Andrew made a taunting post on X about Romania’s criminal investigation into his crimes

They also attended a party hosted by President Donald Trump’s special envoy Paolo Zampolli – a former modelling agency boss who introduced Trump to Melania – that was held in a private capacity and not related to his official duties. 

‘Paolo loves the Tates, but the rest of the government doesn’t,’ a source familiar with the Trump administration said after their arrest. ‘A good reminder that he’s not exactly representative.’ 

The Tates will be processed at the federal courthouse in Miami on Monday, a Department of Justice (DOJ) source told the Daily Mail, when the indictment against them will be unsealed.

Hours before his arrest Saturday, Andrew made a taunting post on X alluding to criminal charges he is additionally facing in Romania.

‘The prosecutor reads every single tweet I make. They’re all corrupt. Hello Dicott please raid the house,’ he wrote, referencing DIICOT, Romania’s Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism.

Andrew also told his followers: ‘Learn to enjoy all forms of attention and haters become powerless.’ 

The controversial manosphere influencers also appears to have attended a party in Miami on Friday, sharing a video from the event on X.

McBride, in his scathing statement on behalf of his clients, said that the pair’s arrest was approved by a low-level DOJ official who ‘never got approval from leadership’. 

‘Think about that. Two men who came to this country openly, lawfully and peacefully were thrown in a cage on the say-so of a bureaucrat freelancing with the full force of American law enforcement,’ McBride wrote.

‘We are confident that once a competent judge sees the facts, and once the Department of Justice confronts this egregious abuse of its own authority, Andrew and Tristan Tate will walk free. America does not do Britain’s political dirty work. Not here. Never. America is watching. The world is watching. And we will win.’

The Tates are dual US and British citizens who moved to Romania in 2016.

The former professional kickboxers have amassed a following of millions of fans, particularly young men and boys, by professing a lifestyle of luxury and unapologetic misogyny.

Andrew was previously dubbed as the ‘king of toxic masculinity’ on social media,  and amassed nearly 11 million followers on X.

A photo obtained by the Daily Mail shows Andrew (right) and Tristan Tate posing with Texas Representative Wesley Hunt in his congressional office  on Tuesday

The pending charges in the UK accuse Andrew and Tristan Tate of abusing women between July 2010 and August 2017 

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His most widely condemned rhetoric includes comments that women who are sexually assaulted should bear some responsibility for their attacks, graphic descriptions of how he might abuse women and criticisms of people who seek medical treatment for mental illness. 

The pair were arrested in Romania in December 2022 and charged in June 2023 with human trafficking and forming an organised crime group to sexually exploit women. Andrew was additionally charged with rape. 

Romanian prosecutors in August 2024 expanded the case against them to include money laundering, witness intimidation and complicity in the trafficking of minors.

British prosecutors filed their own charges against the brothers in May 2025, including rape, actual bodily harm and human trafficking.

Romanian courts ruled the pair would be extradited to the UK once proceedings in Romania conclude.

The Bucharest Court of Appeal ruled against sending the ​Tates to trial in 2024, and sent the case back to prosecutors after removing several ​pieces of evidence that were ‘deemed inadmissible’, including initial testimonies from their alleged victims from the file.

Prosecutors ‌are ⁠still investigating the first case, but in 2024, they began a second criminal investigation against the Tates and four other suspects on suspicion of forming an organised criminal group, human trafficking, trafficking of minors, sexual intercourse with a minor and money laundering.

Children at St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School were left in tears after taking to the stage in a production of Matilda the Musical following months of rehearsals.

The end-of-year production saw every Key Stage Two pupil perform across two evenings at St Bartholomew’s Church after the school secured the licence to stage the award-winning musical.

(Image: St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School)

Alex Barton, School Business Manager, said: “There were tears at the end of the first night; I couldn’t stop them from crying.

“They always are on the last couple of weeks, but they were very emotional, Year 6.

“It was just gorgeous.”

The performances took place on July 8 and 9 after a dress rehearsal on July 7.

Years five and six took on the principal roles, while children in Years three and four formed the choir, backing singers and dancers.

(Image: St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School)

The production followed months of rehearsals and came after Year 6 pupils watched the West End production of Matilda during a residential visit to London earlier this year.

Ms Barton said: “We do it every year, but this one was bigger and we had the licence to do Matilda.

“It was special, the kids really took to it, and staff were amazing, and the costumes were incredible.”

She added: “They loved it, it was something that is a well-known film.

(Image: St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School)

“They loved the idea we were doing it. It all went really well.”

Based on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s novel, Matilda the Musical tells the story of a bright young girl with a love of books who stands up to cruel adults and discovers she has extraordinary powers.

The award-winning stage show features music and lyrics by Tim Minchin and has become a favourite with audiences worldwide.

Enzo Maresca will welcome the first wave of Manchester City players to start training on Monday ahead of the 2026/27 season

Enzo Maresca will meet the first wave of Manchester City players hoping to impress him as pre-season gets underway on Monday. The Italian, who has been officially in position since the beginning of the month, will begin to put his squad through their paces at the City Football Academy.

Given the World Cup has only just finished though, most will not be back in Manchester until later in the summer. That leaves Maresca with an intriguing group that will all have a point to prove, including a number of stars that were cast aside by Pep Guardiola during his time at the Etihad.

Rico Lewis, Jack Grealish, Kalvin Phillips, and Nico Gonzalez are among those who could move on but will be reporting back this week. Grealish may not take part in training depending on the severity of the injury that cut his loan at Everton short last season, but he is making progress as he looks to return to full fitness.

Savinho was close to joining Tottenham last year and that interest has been reignited, yet he also is a City player until he is not and was not at the World Cup. Gianluigi Donnarumma and Phil Foden will be looking to put their recent disappointments behind them and star for club and country again.

Pierce Charles and Mathys Detourbet have both gone straight out on loan after signing permanent deals with City and Elliot Anderson has been with the England squad, but new signing Jeremy Monga will be a fresh face for the squad. The exciting youngster knows Maresca already, having come through at Leicester where the manager spent a year in charge.

Adding to the squad will be a number of hopeful youngsters, some returning from loans and others without as much senior experience who are all hoping for a chance to shine. Brazilian centre-back Vitor Reis could force his way into Maresca’s plans for the season, while Claudio Echeverri disappointed last year with two difficult loans.

Max Alleyne was recalled from his time at Watford to help Guardiola out of a crisis and will be with City until another loan is agreed, while goalkeeper Oli Whatmuff will work with City this month despite having already sorted a loan move to Stockport. Teenage winger Ryan McAidoo is among the academy players that should be given a chance to shine in pre-season.

Abdukodir Khusanov could be back this week given Uzbekistan were knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage, and there will be several stars who were in the United States that will head out with City on their Asia tour. The Blues fly out next Tuesday on July 28 for three friendlies before returning to prepare for the Community Shield against Arsenal.

Rory McIlroy finished in a tie for 40th place at The Open

Rory McIlroy ended The Open in a tie for 40th position following a disappointing few days at Royal Birkdale, as New Zealand’s Ryan Fox secured his first major championship.

The Holywood golfer was unable to mount a challenge on the final day, having been on the back foot from the start. McIlroy picked up birdies at the second and sixth holes before dropping a shot at the par-three seventh.

Another birdie followed at the tenth, but a bogey at the 11th and a double bogey at the 17th derailed his progress. McIlroy salvaged a birdie at the 18th to card one-over for the day and finish one-under for the championship.

The 37-year-old collected €61,000 for his performance and conceded he was “stuck in neutral” throughout his four rounds at the Southport course. McIlroy now intends to belatedly celebrate his second consecutive Masters triumph from earlier this year with his family.

He said: “I was just sort of stuck in neutral for most of the week. Even par over the weekend is not going to get it done.

“I just felt like any time I got a little bit of momentum out there, I seemed to make a bogey. It was just one of those weeks I couldn’t get it going.

“This season feels very similar to last season. Obviously I won the first major of the year and fell off a little bit after that – but any time you win a major in a year, you have to be pleased about that.

“I haven’t really taken the time to enjoy that or celebrate that. Poppy’s got another four weeks off school until she goes back, so I’m just going to enjoy the summer holidays with her and Erica. That’s what I’m looking forward to the most.”

Fox, meanwhile, collected just shy of €2.8million after keeping his composure to birdie the final hole, securing victory by a solitary stroke. McIlroy concluded proceedings nine shots adrift of the champion, while Americans Cameron Young and Sam Burns claimed second and third place respectively.

World number one Scottie Scheffler and England’s Tommy Fleetwood shared fourth position.

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Some great choices to check out on the list this year

Five Belfast hotel restaurants have been named among the best in the UK.

OpenTable, one of the world’s leading providers of online restaurant reservations, has launched its Top 50 Hotel Restaurants in the UK list, as new research revealed that 40% of people in the UK have booked a hotel specifically because of its food offering.

The annual list, based on diner reviews and metrics, celebrates the spots changing perceptions of hotel dining across the country.

Bert’s Jazz Bar, The Great Room and The Cloth Ear, all at The Merchant Hotel in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, were named alongside Jospers at Ten Square and Wolff Grill at Titanic Hotel as the best hotel restaurants in Northern Ireland for 2026.

Here is what OpenTable said you can expect from each spot:

Bert’s Jazz Bar, The Merchant

Berts Jazz Bar encapsulates the sleek elegance of the art deco era, complimented by the very best in live jazz, fabulous cocktails and mouth-watering food. Transport yourself back to the Art Deco glamour of 1930’s New York and the Jazz Age in Belfast’s only dedicated Jazz bar and restaurant: Berts Bar at The Merchant Hotel. Soak up the sophisticated atmosphere and let the cool jazz melodies wash over you.

A handpicked list of cocktails completes the extensive drinks selection. A French bistro style menu is complemented by an extensive wine list and, of course, exemplary service. Berts offers live jazz seven nights a week.

Jospers, Ten Square

Discover exceptional dining right here at Ten Square, where Jospers Restaurant brings the flavours of Northern Ireland to your plate, all day, every day.

We proudly champion the very best of local produce, working with passionate Northern Irish suppliers to ensure that every dish we serve reflects the quality, freshness, and heritage of our region. Our meat is sourced exclusively from the award-winning McAtamney Butchers in Ballymena, with full field-to-fork traceability, while our sustainable fish and vegetarian options ensure there’s something delicious for everyone—vegan guests included.

Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply drinks and light bites, Jospers is the must-visit restaurant in the heart of Belfast.

Wolff Grill, Titanic Hotel

Winner of ‘Hotel Restaurant of the Year’ for Ulster and All Ireland at the Irish Hotel Awards 2024. The Wolff Grill, every visit promises a refined yet casual dining experience in an intimate and relaxed bistro setting. Indulge in luxury dining with our carefully crafted menu, perfect for romantic dinners, family-friendly lunches, or business gatherings. Savour the finest cuts of meat during our steak night or explore our diverse offerings, including gluten-free options and vegan delights. Whether you’re joining us for a pre-theatre bite or a leisurely weeknight dinner, you can elevate every dining experience with us. Immerse yourself in romance at one of Belfast’s most enchanting dining destinations, where waterfront views and our Titanic connection create an ambience like no other. Our locally sourced ingredients pay homage to Northern Ireland’s flavours.

The Cloth Ear, The Merchant

The Cloth Ear provides patrons with a pleasing twist on the quintessential Irish Pub. We are nestled in the oldest quarter of Belfast and we’ve woven a rich seam of our wonderful Victorian heritage into what is ultimately a thoroughly modern experience. At The Cloth Ear the welcome is warm and the atmosphere lively. An inventive drinks list combines classic creations and innovative ideas to quench your thirst, tickle your tastebuds and get the conversation flowing. Our cleverly curated food offering changes regularly to reflect the very best in seasonal, local produce.

The Great Room Restaurant, The Merchant

The Great Room Restaurant is undoubtedly one of Northern Ireland’s most extraordinary restaurants. Thanks to the remarkable original Victorian interior with its glass cupola, Ireland’s largest chandelier an array of plasterwork detailing, the space is second to none.

Needless to say our chefs search tirelessly to bring the finest seasonal ingredients together in eloquent dishes in thoughtfully prepared menus, just one of the reasons The Great Room Restaurant was awarded 2 AA Rosettes. All this is complemented by expert service and a wine list to which all the superlatives apply!

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As Shakira performed in the halftime show, viewers at home praised the superstar as she welcomed Ugandan triplets Ghetto Kids to her set.

One user wrote: “Our own Triplets Ghetto Kids have given their performance at the World Cup halftime show. Uganda is proud.”

Another added: “Shakira shaking it up with Ugandas Ghetto kids does it for me. We may not played the soccer, but we danced on the same field of #Fifaworldcup2026”

The group have gone from the streets of Uganda to sharing a stage with Shakira. The Ghetto Kids are a group of Ugandan children led by Kavuma Dauda, with several generations of the kids being in the group. They have all been children from underprivileged backgrounds that live, learn and dance together.

They first became famous in 2014, when they uploaded a video of their dance moves to the song “Sitya Loss”. In 2016, they appeared on Britain’s Got Talent.After Shakira watched a video of them dancing to “Dai Dai”, the song of the 2026 World Cup, she invited them to be in the half time show of the Final.

Human remains have been found in the hunt for a woman who vanished six years ago after her husband confessed from his jail cell to killing her and hiding her body.  

In a case that has gripped France since the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Cedric Jubillar, 38, was sentenced to 30 years in prison in October for murdering Delphine Jubillar, 33.

Her body was never found and Jubillar had always maintained his innocence, including during the trial.

But in a dramatic U-turn earlier this month ahead of his appeal trial, Jubillar confessed to his involvement for the first time. 

He also pledged to lead investigators to where he concealed his wife’s body, according to his legal team.

This led to an intense two-day search on agricultural land in Mailhoc, Tarn, southern France last week – some 10km from the couple’s former home.

Human remains were found there and they have now been confirmed to belong to Delphine after DNA analysis, said Toulouse prosecutor Nicolas Jacquet.

The victim’s body was likely scattered accidentally during agricultural work.

Pierre Debuisson, one of the new lawyers representing Cedric Jubillar, told the media that after five years of denying his involvement in the crime, Jubillar has admitted to murdering his wife

Jubillar was convicted on the basis of a string of corroborating evidence despite the lack of a body or any DNA evidence linking him to the crime, making the case one of the most puzzling in modern French legal history.

The trial heard that Delphine, who was a nurse, had asked for a divorce and had wanted to start a new life with another man.

The couple had two children whose lawyers hope can now find some closure after their father’s confession.

Commentators have suggested Cedric Jubillar is looking to change his strategy ahead of his appeal trial by admitting to killing Delphine but portraying it as an accident during a domestic dispute, in the hope of being given a lesser sentence.

Earlier this month, Cedric’s lawyer, Pierre Debuisson, told a news conference that his client was ready to ‘cooperate fully with the judicial authorities’ and tell investigators where the body is located after hiding the corpse on the night of December 15 to 16, 2020. 

He expressed hope that Jubillar’s move will allow their two young children to ‘grieve and give Delphine a proper burial’, adding his client ‘clearly regrets’ his actions. ‘It was the worst thing he did in his life,’ the lawyer added. 

However it remains unclear how Delphine Jubillar was killed.

Cedric’s legal team now believe it is impossible that the appeal trial can take place as scheduled in September, as their client will need to be re-interrogated and searches for the body take place.

Delphine went missing in rural southern France at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic but her body was never found 

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A team of divers of the French Gendarmerie inspect the L’Endrevie body of water in Blaye-les-Mines, southern France on December 22, 2020, as they search for Delphine Jubillar

Debuisson said Jubillar would give further details when interrogated.  

Jurors came to the conclusion that Jubillar murdered Delphine in a fit of rage after she asked for a divorce while having an affair with another man, despite some earlier claims made in court that he was the victim of overenthusiastic investigators.

‘We are relieved for the children,’ said Malika Chmani, lawyer for the two young children.

‘Now it is important that he tell us where the body is. I believe that is what will happen – at any rate, that is what we hope for,’ she added. 

On the morning of her disappearance, Jubillar called the police at 4am claiming she had gone out to walk their dogs and had never returned. But nobody saw her leave, and no evidence ever supported that claim.

A massive manhunt ensued with over 1000 people searching the vast countryside while divers checked nearby rivers for any evidence of what might have happened to Delphine. 

Chief prosecutor Pierre Aurignac said in his closing plea at the trial: ‘To defend the idea of Mr Jubillar’s innocence requires dismissing four experts, silencing 19 witnesses and killing the sniffer dog.’

The jury were told by prosecutors that although there was ‘no body and no blood’, there was ‘no plausible alternative either’.

‘No matter how you look at this case, you come to the same conclusion – guilt,’ said Mr Aurignac.

Emmanuelle Franck, Jubillar’s lawyer, told jurors, per the Daily Telegraph: ‘We have created a criminal to explain a crime. 

‘This is a castle of sand. When you cannot prove, you imagine. When you cannot find, you invent.’ 

The most damning evidence of Jubillar’s crime came from the testimony from his relatives, including his mother, Nadine. 

She told the court she regretted not taking her son seriously when he said: ‘I’m fed up, she annoys me, I’m going to kill her, I’m going to bury her, no one will find her.’

A letter written by the couple’s son read aloud to the court accused Jubillar of mistreating both his mother and himself.

He described being beaten, humiliated and belittled, and said he believed his father ‘did something bad’ to his mother.

The child also revealed that he had witnessed the couple arguing the night of her disappearance and they discussed their separation.

In his final sentence in court Jubillar simply said: ‘I have done absolutely nothing to Delphine.’