The Apprentice 2026 winner has been crowned after a nail-biting final, with two businesswomen going head-to-head.

The Apprentice 2026 champion has been revealed following a tense finale.

Following twelve weeks of demanding challenges and high-pressure boardrooms, the BBC contest reached its climactic end this evening, with finalists Karishma Vijay and Pascha Myhill battling it out for Lord Alan Sugar’s £250,000 backing.

The finale witnessed both entrepreneurs creating a brand and marketing strategy for their respective ventures before presenting them to Lord Sugar, prominent industry figures and several icons from the programme’s two-decade history, including Margaret Mountford, Nick Hewer, Dr Leah Totton, Ricky Martin and Dean Franklin.

In the ultimate boardroom showdown, Lord Sugar selected his new business associate, declaring Karishma victorious.

The Surrey-based beauty entrepreneur, who takes pride in being her family’s first businesswoman, had already captured public affection and even earned several rare words of praise from Baroness Karren Brady, reports the Express.

READ MORE: Strictly’s Janette Manrara addresses future on It Takes Two after ‘axe’ rumoursREAD MORE: Apprentice star Karishma defiantly vows ‘I’m making money without Lord Sugar’

The 28-year-old had previously revealed in an exclusive interview how she went from £7 in her bank balance to taking hundreds of orders per day, and even making £250,000 while The Apprentice aired.

Lord Sugar commented: “As always, it was close competition in the final after two outstanding pitches by two brilliant young businesswomen.

“But Karishma really impressed me throughout the process and has proven why she deserves my investment. She’s a proper grafter, and she’s got that entrepreneurial spirit that I always look for.

“The cosmetics industry is one I know a lot about, and I know our partnership will pave the way for a bright future.”

Following the result, Karishma revealed: “I can’t believe it.”

She continued, “I feel like I’m going to be calling Lord Sugar every other day, saying ‘what do I do now? I don’t know what I’m doing’.

“Because when I was doing it by myself, I was going at my own pace. Now, there’s a bit more pressure, because I have to really convince him that he made the right decision to have picked me.

“I feel like I will never get over this experience. Nothing in my life will ever compare. I just got engaged – so what?!”

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Talking about the experience, she continued: “The best highlight ever was Baroness Brady. Even just saying my name out loud, but also for her to acknowledge me. She thought I was good. Apparently, she never says that to anyone.

“She said ‘Karishma you really stood out, you’re the big boss’. In what world does Baroness Brady speak about candidates like that? I feel so honoured.

“She backed me, she really backed me, and I feel like that made Lord Sugar think, ‘wait, there must be something here for my right hand to be talking about her like this’.”

Reflecting on what she’s learned about herself through this experience, Karishma continued: “I am so much more confident. I feel like I can talk to anyone now. I can sell my stuff in public. I’ve never had that exposure. Now I’ll be at exhibitions, and I’m screaming and shouting and singing. People love it. Nothing makes me nervous.

“If you can sit in front of Lord Sugar, Baroness Brady, and Tim, and put a sentence together, you can now talk to anyone. Those people are the epitome of power, and now I just feel so brave. No one scares me. Nothing intimidates me now.”

Prior to learning of her victory, Karishma had boldly pledged that she would be generating income with or without Lord Sugar’s backing, telling us: “For me, as a business, we’ve done quarter of a million now, so Lord Sugar, you’re making money with me, or you’re making money without me, but I’m still making money.”

She has since shared her optimism for what lies ahead following Lord Sugar’s investment, saying: “Now doors are gonna open, that we probably never would have even knocked on. And now they’re gonna blow wide open because of Lord Sugar. It’s all about his network, his advice, and his expertise. He is the blueprint of business – I feel like I’ve got the godfather of business behind my shoulder now.”

The Apprentice is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

It also said the Government should insist on “clear, upfront information” from sellers on ticket refund policies, introduce a mandatory levy on larger events to benefit grassroots venues, festivals, promoters, and upcoming artists; while venues should be required to provide free earplugs and drinking water.

A bold New Moon aligns with Chiron, marking a fresh start where healing is on the cards. A reset could be exactly what you need.

Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces, old wounds could resurface around self-worth. Know your own value, and don’t be afraid to advocate for it.

Be ready to rewrite a past chapter, as well as starting a new one. Truly consider what serves you today.

Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Friday April 17, 2026

Like checking your horoscope every morning? You can now sign up to our free daily newsletter to get a personalised reading for your star sign delivered straight to your inbox.

To download your free Unique Personal Horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com/free-birth-chart/.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

A New Moon in your sign aligned with healer Chiron can open a brave and tender chapter, and it’s not just a fresh start; it’s also a healing one. Old doubts about identity, confidence or courage may surface so you can release them. Take one bold step toward something that once intimidated you. It’s time to rewrite your story and set intentions that respect your strength and sensitivity.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Today’s lunation lights a quiet corner of your inner world, inspiring a reset. Old hurts about confidence or belonging could unsettle you, but reflecting on them will bring the release you desire. Consider more self-forgiveness and courage and let them go to work behind the scenes. You are stronger than you think, yet softer than you admit, both of which are assets.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

A powerful lunar phase stirs your social sphere and ushers in a fresh start with friends, groups, or key goals, and it carries a healing undertone. If you once felt overlooked or underestimated, this could be resolved now. Make it your focus to connect authentically and share your ideas even if they are awkward. Friendships can also strengthen when you show up as you truly are.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

Cancer 22 June – 23 July

The New Moon aligned with powerful Chiron illuminates your career path with a healing light. Old doubts about visibility or leadership may surface, so you can address them. Prepare for a fresh professional chapter and set goals that respect your ambitions. A daring step now, such as a proposal or application, could be the start of better times to come, so don’t hold back.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

Expect a new beginning around your beliefs or a desire to explore new horizons. A key lunar phase encourages you to consider new opportunities that can help you overcome old limits and gives you greater confidence in your abilities. Apply for a fascinating course, map a new journey or share the philosophy you have kept to yourself. Healing comes through action – seize the moment!

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

A key lunation aligned with Chiron can stir deep waters around trust, intimacy and shared resources. You’ll be ready to question what you really want out of a deep bond, business arrangement or from pooling resources for a new project. Powerful insights can change the way you deal with others and what you expect from them. Boundaries may need to be set, too.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

Prepare for adjustments to relationships that could take things to a new, tender level. The Aries New Moon aligns with healing Chiron, which encourages you to address issues that may have been bubbling away beneath the surface. Progress can begin with an honest conversation and by being sensitive to the deeper currents that underpin this bond. Revelations can be powerful.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Looking to refresh your daily life in key ways? Old frustrations about work, health, or feeling indispensable may surface, indicating they’re ready for a shift. Get to work on routines that support you rather than draining you. You don’t have to prove your worth by becoming burned out. Small changes can have a powerful effect, so start now and enjoy the progress you make

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

A powerful lunar phase that links to deep growth, Chiron can start a process of reconciliation. If a romance or friendship has stalled, this blend of energies could act as a catalyst that bonds you even deeper. Have you held back from expressing yourself? This may have caused you to stop sharing your talents or creativity, and if so, a sparkling insight could initiate a new phase.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 20

There’s potential for a fresh start around home, roots and old family issues. Feelings that have been locked away may surface, and dealing with them now could bring a fresh energy to the mix, encouraging you to hold those important conversations. You’ll feel better if you can create a sanctuary that thrives on honest, but also caring appreciation of each other, Capricorn.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 21 to February 19

Your voice and the way you communicate could be energised by a healing spark. Old wounds around speaking up, being misunderstood, or feeling ignored can surface, and this is the time to deal with them. This is a new beginning in how you express ideas and advocate for yourself. A brave conversation could reset a relationship or spring open a door that’s previously been shut.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

A sparkling lunation aligned with profound Chiron highlights self-worth, giving it a healing glow. Old doubts about value, income, or deserving more may be very much on your mind. Focus on earning confidently and on properly respecting your talents. You are not asking for too much, simply recognising your true value. Price your gifts as if they matter, as they truly do.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

Head here for this week’s tarot horoscope reading, and see what the cards have in store for you!

Check out the tarot horoscope reading for the month of April here.

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The comedian was the first to leave South Africa

I’m a Celebrity South Africa star Seann Walsh has opened up about being the first star to be eliminated from the camp.

Comedian Seann Walsh was the first star to be eliminated from I’m a Celebrity South Africa after Harry Redknapp was told he had to make a difficult decision after he lost the trial against Jimmy Bullard.

On Thursday (April 16) night, Harry returned to camp where he informed his team that he had decided it was time for Seann Walsh to pack his bags and leave, thus making him the first star to be sent home.

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The campmates were in shock as they had to bid a hasty farewell to Seann, who finished fifth place the last time he was in the jungle back in 2022.

Speaking to ITV about his exit for the first time, Seann said: “It’s a combination of emotions. I was thrilled to be able to see my family because I missed my kids a lot. At the same time, I’m sad they won’t see me in the jungle for longer or doing more trials.”

He continued: “I think as soon as Harry mentioned someone had to go, I was basically packing my bags. I knew it was going to be me, because I knew who I was up against, including a former Queen of The Jungle and a former world champion.”

Opening up about the conditions of Savannah Scrub, he shared: “It was an absolute hellhole. The toilet faced the shower. Honestly, I think the three most useless people to be left together in Savannah Scrub were Adam, myself, and Bev.

“You couldn’t have hoped for a more useless three, to the point where we couldn’t see any kind of door for the long drop, so we assumed there wasn’t one!”

Ant and Dec promised that things would be tougher for the stars this year, and Seann agreed: “The trials were harder and scarier. It felt like it was turned up to eleven, so that just put more anxiety into the camp. The pleasure for me doing the jungle was the extraordinary people you get to live with.

“I don’t think I’ll ever forget that. It felt strange for me being in their presence, because they are almost historic figures in entertainment and sport. That doesn’t go over the top of my head.”

I’M A CELEBRITY… SOUTH AFRICA AIRS WEEKNIGHTS AT 9PM ON ITV1, ITVX, STV AND STV PLAYER

The incident took place in Wolverhampton as a man has been arrested

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A man has been arrested after a woman in her 70s was fatally mauled by two ‘big’ dogs. The horrific incident occurred in Wolverhampton as emergency crews were sent to Willis Pearson Avenue, in the Bilston area of the city.

The woman died at the scene as the attack was reported at 11.30pm on Wednesday (April 15). The two dogs are not believed to be a banned breed Mirror reports.

The dogs involved in the latest attack were later destroyed after they continued to be aggressive towards emergency services. A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being in charge of a dog that was dangerously out of control and caused injury resulting in death.

He was taken to hospital after receiving hand injuries. Officers are carrying out further inquiries about the two dogs.

The force stated the investigation was at an early stage as police tried to establish what happened in the attack. Front windows of the property, located on a quiet residential street, were boarded up and a woman was seen leaving flowers at the home.

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Neighbour Sam Wright, 64, said: “She couldn’t have fended him off as she was very weak, they were big dogs.

“I heard her daughter say distinctly, ‘My mum’s been killed by the dogs’. “I’ve seen people from the housing association taking in mops and all the cleaning stuff there today.

Another neighbour said: “I went over once to take her a bereavement card for a chap who died next door. The dogs came in so I had to get back out. They were big.

“The window was boarded up because the family said there was blood inside. One man saw blood everywhere.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service said two ambulances and paramedics arrived at the Bilston address around 23:30. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “Further enquiries are being carried out into the two dogs who are not believed to be a banned breed.

“A scene remains in place, and an investigation is in its early stages as we work to understand exactly what’s happened.”

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 11.31pm to reports of a dog attack at a private address on Wills Pearson Avenue in Bilston. Two ambulances, two paramedic officers and a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic attended the scene.

“Upon arrival we found two patients. Firstly, an elderly woman.

“Sadly, it was clear that nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed deceased at the scene. Secondly, a man who was assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained injuries not believed to be serious.

“He received treatment at the scene before being conveyed to New Cross Hospital for further assessment.”

The incidents follows two other dog attacks that took place last week, including one that resulted in the death of a three-month-old girl in Redcar, North Yorkshire. Armed police shot the dog in a street on April 9.

A day later, 19-year-old Jamie-Lea Biscoe was found with serious injuries and subsequently died after being attacked by a dog in Leaden Roding, a village in Essex.

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The busy street was initially pedestrianised in December 2025 for a six month pilot

The pedestrianisation of a busy Belfast city centre street has been extended for a further six months, the Infrastructure Minister has confirmed.

Hill Street became a pedestrianised zone on December 4, 2025 as part of a six month pilot scheme which would extend until June 3, 2026. This week, the Infrastructure Minister confirmed the scheme will be extended for a further six months.

Since the street became pedestrianised, there has been an almost 80% reduction in cars using Hill Street. The scheme permits access for certain vehicles at prescribed times of the day, such as loading and unloading exemptions, as well as exemptions for blue badge holders to ensure accessibility to amenities in the area.

READ MORE: One fine issued since Belfast’s Hill Street pedestrianisedREAD MORE: Cathedral Quarter’s new neon art paying tribute to Belfast figure and city’s ‘enduring spirit’

During the extended six month period for the scheme, the Minister said officials will carry out engagement with stakeholders to determine if any amendments are needed, before introducing permanent legislation.

Hill Street, located in the Cathedral Quarter area, has become the central cultural spine of Belfast’s nightlife over the past 20 years. Its pedestrianisation had been spoken of for years, as concerns had been expressed over the dangerous potential for accidents as revellers and vehicles passed side by side through the tight cobbled thoroughfare.

The street was temporarily pedestrianised in 2020 during coronavirus by the Department for Infrastructure, with a view to making the move permanent, but this was consistently delayed to the frustrations of locally elected politicians at City Hall. It was estimated last year the proposal would cost around £5,000.

North Belfast MLA, Phillip Brett, asked the Infrastructure Minister earlier this week whether the pedestrianisation scheme would be extended. In response, the Minister said: “I was pleased to announce the pedestrianisation of Hill Street from 4 December 2025.

“It is a thriving area in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast as more and more visitors come to enjoy the hospitality on offer. Importantly this scheme will facilitate a vibrant social space that prioritises people by making the streets safer for pedestrians.

“By contributing to a more pleasant and enjoyable environment it will help maximise the street’s potential and enhance the nighttime and weekend economy.

“The current experimental Order was introduced as a six month pilot which currently extends to 3rd June 2026.

“The scheme does permit access for certain vehicles at prescribed times of the day, such as loading and unloading exemptions between 6am and 12pm. Exemptions are also in place for Blue Badge holders to ensure accessibility to amenities in the area.

“I am pleased to note that since its introduction, survey results indicate an almost 80 percent reduction in cars using Hill Street.

“At present I see no reason why the experimental scheme cannot be extended for a further six months during which time, officials will carry out engagement with key stakeholders to determine if amendments are required before introducing permanent legislation.”

Phillip Brett has welcomed the progress towards permanent pedestrianisation of the street. Mr Brett said: “I am pleased to have secured progress towards the permanent pedestrianisation of Hill Street, building on the success we have already seen since the scheme was introduced.

“The transformation of this part of the Cathedral Quarter is already delivering real benefits, with traffic reduced by over 70% and a safer, more welcoming environment created for residents, visitors and local businesses.

“Hill Street is a key part of Belfast’s cultural and hospitality offering, and it is important that we continue to support its growth by prioritising people and enhancing the overall experience in the city centre.

“The decision to extend the current arrangements for another 6 months is a positive and sensible step, and I will continue to work with the department and stakeholders to deliver the permanent pedestrianisation as soon as possible.”

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

Nexus, operator of the Tyne and Wear Metro, is currently recruiting for 11 positions in overhead line maintenance to strengthen incident response and improve the resilience of the 77km Metro network.

The roles are part of an ongoing multi-million-pound upgrade of the system’s 1,500-volt direct current overhead lines, which are essential for train operations.

Stuart Clarke, Infrastructure Director at Nexus, said: “We are investing in our overhead line team by offering eleven roles in an essential area of Metro infrastructure maintenance and renewal works.

Career opportunities as Nexus strengthens Metro’s overhead line crews (Image: Nexus)

“This strengthens our existing resource base, providing us with improved incident response when issues arise with overhead lines, which are essential for the operation of the Metro system.

“It’s a great opportunity to join Nexus and forge a career at one of the most exciting times in our history as we invest in our infrastructure, roll out the new Metro train fleet, and get ready to expand the network.

“The successful applicants will play a vital role, not only in day-to-day maintenance duties, but also in the Metro Asset Renewal Programme, installing new overhead lines across the Metro system to ensure its long-term future.”

The roles include five maintenance and overhead linespersons, who will carry out inspection, repair, renewal and maintenance.

Nexus is also hiring one charge person, two section supervisors, one assistant engineering manager, one principal Technical Officer, and one engineering manager for overhead line.

All roles will support both routine maintenance and the broader renewal programme to modernise and secure the long-term future of the Metro network.

The closing date for applications is Thursday, 30 April.

Details on how to apply, along with job descriptions, are available at www.nexus.org.uk/careers.

Rio Ferdinand has warned Arsenal supporters calling for Mikel Arteta’s sacking to ‘be careful what you wish for’ and believes the Gunners would struggle to recruit an elite-level manager in the same summer as Manchester United.

Arsenal currently sit six points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League ahead of their match at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday, while they have reached the Champions League semi-final where they will meet Atletico Madrid.

However, Arteta has faced calls to be sacked if he finishes the season without a trophy, with some supporters concerned over the team’s style of play in the second half of the season.

Ferdinand believes Arsenal would be wrong to dismiss Arteta and feels the club could struggle to compete with Manchester United, who may look beyond Michael Carrick and appoint a new manager this summer.

‘I would be careful what you wish for if I was an Arsenal fan if you think getting rid of Arteta is the best thing you guys could do,’ Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel.

‘You have to remember where you guys were when he came. You guys are consistently qualifying for the Champions League, you weren’t before Arteta came. You’re finishing second most of the time, fighting for the Premier League year in, year out.

‘You’ve got to get over the line, yes I know, but you think the grass is greener over there with another manager? Who is the other manager?

‘He [Luis Enrique] is not coming to Arsenal. He’s leaving the best team in the world to go to Arsenal – are you crazy?

‘Every manager other than Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira or Cesc Fabregas would go to Man United over Arsenal.

‘He [Fabregas] doesn’t guarantee you anything, he hasn’t won anything, as talented as he is.

‘I’m just saying, it’s not like you go from Arteta and say, ‘we’ve got a certainty’. Pep’s your only certainty and he’s not going to Arsenal.’

Ferdinand also hit back criticism of Martin Zubimendi’s recent performances for Arsenal and believes the biggest problem for Arteta is his lack of creativity in attack.

‘I’ve seen it, I’ve seen it loud and clear,’ Ferdinand replied when asked about the criticism directed towards Zubimendi.

‘They are saying he’s been a liability, he was bought just because of a good game in the Euros final, he’s the weak link.

‘Yeah, he might be at fault for a goal or something like that, he’s given the ball away a few times or made mistakes when the ball has been played directly from a goalkeeper in that holding role, but I wouldn’t say it’s down to him.

‘I think Arsenal’s biggest problem is their lack of attacking flair, their willingness to just take the shackles off and go for it. That for me, I’d be worried about that as an Arsenal fan.’

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NEW YORK (AP) — A looming jet fuel shortage in Europe and Asia sparked by the Iran war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz could further upend world travel within weeks if oil doesn’t start flowing again soon — meaning higher airfares and flight cancellations as the summer travel season approaches.

In an exclusive Associated Press interview Thursday, International Energy Agency Director Fatih Birol said Europe has “maybe six weeks” of remaining jet fuel supplies and said the global economy faces its “largest energy crisis.”

In general, some European countries hold several months’ worth of jet fuel inventory at a time, according to an IEA report released this week.

Jet fuel — a refined kerosene-based oil product — is airlines’ biggest cost, making up about 30% of overall expenses, according to the International Air Transport Association. And jet fuel prices have roughly doubled since the war began. Shortages could start next.

“Every passing day that the Strait of Hormuz remains shut, Europe is edging closer to supply shortages,” said Amaar Khan, head of European jet fuel pricing at Argus Media. “The strait accounts for around 40% of Europe’s jet fuel imports, but no jet fuel has passed the strait since the war broke out.”

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Airline officials have largely reacted with caution, acknowledging potential fuel issues but working to reassure customers. Still, some carriers have already passed costs on to consumers by increasing fees for baggage and other add-ons, embedding costs into ticket prices, or raising fuel surcharges.

A handful of airlines already are cutting flights. Experts say other parts of air travel — such as scheduling flexibility and routes — would likely be impacted.

Here’s a look at how jet fuel supplies work and how consumers might see effects.

How does jet fuel get to the plane?

Jet fuel is made from crude oil at refineries, which also create gasoline and diesel.

Airlines generally buy jet fuel from refineries or fuel companies, similar to drivers buying gasoline from stations, but on a much larger scale. Jet fuel travels on ships and through pipelines and is stored by airlines at airports.

Purchasing is handled by airlines. If fuel supplies are running out in a region, that doesn’t necessarily mean there will be no flights. Some airlines might have more stored than others.

But remaining flights are likely to be expensive, reflecting fuel costs.

Larger airlines have advantages in regions with shortages. They have the financial means to deal with high prices, said Jacques Rousseau, managing director at financial firm Clearview Energy Partners.

In Europe, a number of countries are now relying on less than 20 days of coverage in their fuel supplies, according to this week’s IEA report. Supplies haven’t dropped below 29 days since 2020, the report said.

If that falls under 23 days, physical shortages may emerge at some airports, resulting in flight cancellations and lower demand, the report warned.

Which regions could feel pain?

Asia-Pacific countries are the most reliant on oil and jet fuel from the Middle East, followed by Europe, Rousseau said.

Most of Europe’s jet fuel is produced by European refiners, but about 20-25% of its supply is missing because of the war, Rousseau said.

To fill some gaps, the U.S. has increased its exports of jet fuel to Europe considerably, sending about 150,000 barrels per day in April, or about six times the normal level, Rousseau said.

Availability of jet fuel is less of an issue in the U.S., a major oil producer, he added.

“I tell my kids … we’re not so much going to run out of supply,” Rousseau said. “It’s just going to cost more here, whereas in different parts of the world you could actually get to a point where there’s just no fuel.”

How much is the world supply of jet fuel lagging?

The world is losing 10 million to 15 million barrels of oil a day due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, said Pavel Molchanov, senior investment strategist at investment firm Raymond James & Associates.

“There are exactly the same refineries in exactly the same places in Asia and Europe, but if there is not enough oil for those refineries to operate, it’s going to lead to physical supply disruption,” he said.

Even though the IEA has released 400 million barrels of oil from members’ emergency reserves, that won’t help in the short term, he added.

“It could take until the end of the year to get all of those barrels onto the market,” he said.

How will my travel be affected?

Christopher Anderson, a professor of operations, technology and information management at Cornell University, said travelers should prepare for more than just higher airfares.

“This is no longer just a fuel-price story. For airlines, it is now a network-planning story,” he said. “Higher fuel costs matter, but so do longer routings, reduced scheduling flexibility and greater uncertainty about what demand will look like even a few weeks out.”

Travelers might see “a market with later booking patterns, more schedule volatility and fewer low-fare options if this disruption lasts into the core summer season,” he said.

What are airlines doing?

Dutch airline KLM and U.K. budget carrier easyJet told AP they weren’t experiencing current fuel shortages, without commenting further on the IEA’s warning.

Still, both airlines are among those that have seen higher costs eat into their budgets.

On Thursday, KLM said it would cut 160 flights next month — about 1% of its total European routes. The airline cited “rising kerosene costs” and said a limited number of flights are “no longer financially viable to operate.”

In a Thursday update, EasyJet said it expects to see a pretax loss of 540 million to 560 million pounds (about $731 million to $758 million) for the first half of the 2026 fiscal year. Still, CEO Kenton Jarvis said demand remains strong overall — noting that Easter travel was easyJet’s busiest ever for that holiday period.

Lufthansa said Thursday that labor disputes and high fuel prices are forcing it to immediately shut down feeder airline CityLine, earlier than planned, and take its 27 older, less fuel-efficient planes out of service. The decision accelerates a shutdown that had been expected for next year.

U.S. carrier Delta Air Lines — which frequently flies to European destinations — said on Thursday that it was “aware of the potential jet fuel supply issue” on the continent and monitoring the situation. Delta, which bought a refinery in Philadelphia in 2012 to manage its largest expense, said it doesn’t expect any “near-term impact to our operations.”

How are prices affected?

Other airlines have sounded the alarm about rising fuel prices, with some already passing along new costs to travelers, often embedded into ticket prices and add-on fees.

U.S. carriers Delta, United, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue have all increased checked baggage fees, for example, in recent weeks.

United CEO Scott Kirby said in a recent memo to staff that if fuel prices stay elevated, it could add $11 billion in annual costs. “For perspective,” Kirby wrote, “in United’s best year ever, we made less than $5B.”

Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific recently bumped fuel surcharges by roughly 34% across all routes, while Air India added up to $280 in fees to some flights earlier this month. Emirates, Lufthansa and KLM have also adjusted fees or fares to keep pace with the price volatility.

___

AP writer David McHugh in Frankfurt, Germany, contributed to this report.

Coronation Street star Gareth Pierce has been playing Todd Grimshaw on the ITV soap since 2020 and has been at the centre of some major storylines

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Coronation Street’s Gareth Pierce is renowned for portraying Todd Grimshaw, but outside the ITV soap, his manner of speaking is notably different.

Gareth, 45, rose to prominence when he joined the Corrie cast in 2020 as Todd Grimshaw, succeeding Bruno Langley, who departed the program in 2017.

Throughout his six years on the enduring series, Todd has featured in several heartbreaking storylines, including the losses of his closest friends Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank) and Paul Foreman (Peter Ash).

Last year, Todd began a relationship with attractive scaffolder Theo Silverton (James Cartwright), who was already married with two children.

Theo, who had concealed his sexuality, found himself rejected by his family when his wife Danielle (Natalie Anderson) uncovered his relationship with Todd, reports the Daily Star.

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While Theo initially withdrew from Todd to concentrate on his family, the couple subsequently rekindled their romance, although it hasn’t been without difficulties.

Tensions heightened when James Bailey (Jason Callender) drunkenly attempted to kiss Todd at number eleven, leading Theo to deliver a stark warning. He has subsequently persisted in attempting to control every facet of his boyfriend’s life.

For months, Theo has been subjecting Todd to psychological and physical abuse in a disturbing domestic violence storyline. Most recently, Theo savagely assaulted Todd, leaving him bloodied and bruised in distressing scenes.

The funeral director has been enduring in silence for months, with Todd’s loved ones and relatives now beginning to sense something is amiss. Regrettably, their inquisitiveness about the circumstances has driven villainous Theo to even more drastic measures.

Theo coerced Todd into marrying him, but his schemes didn’t end there. Theo then conspired to spirit his new spouse away to Belfast, far from friends and a support network.

Todd informed Theo that he wasn’t prepared to relocate, prompting the antagonist to confiscate his phone and imprison him. As one Weatherfield resident is destined to be murdered in a fresh whodunnit, will Theo face his demise?

Beyond the Manchester-set soap, Gareth has left admirers stunned after revealing his authentic accent. Last year, he posted on Instagram to wish the Welsh women’s football squad success as they competed in the Euros.

Donning a Welsh football jersey, Gareth, who hails from Gwynedd in Wales, stated: “Massive week ahead in the Women’s Euros. Wales and England both playing today, but also playing each other on Sunday. Big showdown. Obviously, I’m shouting for Wales.”

Speaking in Welsh, he continued, “Good luck, Wales. Let’s go. Come on, Wales!”

Admirers of the soap were astonished after viewing the clip, as Todd’s Mancunian accent on Coronation Street is vastly different from Gareth’s authentic Welsh accent.

Responding in the comments, one individual posted: “You learn something new every day. Did not know he was Welsh”, while a second wrote: “Love the slight Welsh accent.”

“Didn’t know you were Welsh”, a third chimed in as another exclaimed: “Didn’t know he was welsh c’mon Cymru.”

“Are you Welsh, mate?” asked one fan while another stated: “Mind blown!”

Coronation Street airs weekdays on ITV and ITVX