Stockton has achieved a spotless record in a major new analysis by Cairn Catering Engineers, with not a single food business in the region rated two or below, putting it among the top performers nationally for cleanliness and safety.

The study used open data from the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland, covering over 485,000 premises across the UK.

The average national hygiene rating is 4.65 out of five, with 78 per cent of outlets awarded the top mark of five and 97 per cent rated at least three.

Elsewhere in Teesside and in County Durham, the picture is strong too.

Hartlepool has just 0.14 per cent of outlets scoring two or under, while Darlington’s figure of 1.68 per cent still compares well with many parts of the country.

Middlesbrough is the local exception, with almost 4 per cent of premises rated two or below, leaving it behind its neighbours but still broadly in line with national averages.

On a national scale, the North East as a whole ranks fourth out of 11 UK regions, ahead of Yorkshire, the North West and London, putting the region on the map for good hygiene standards.

The study also highlights which kinds of food businesses are most likely to fall short, with takeaways and sandwich shops performing worst, and schools, colleges and universities emerging as the strongest.

Researchers found a clear link between low hygiene scores and deprivation, with almost 6% of premises in the most deprived areas rated two or below, compared with less than 2% in the least deprived areas.

New and independent businesses also struggle to keep up with more established ones, but overall the analysis suggests that where a business is based has a strong influence on its chances of achieving a higher score.

If you are thinking of opening a new food business in the North East, Stockton could be a great place to set up shop.

Further information on the study can be found on Cairn’s website: UK Food Hygiene Ratings: How Every Area Scores | Cairn

England‘s World Cup last-16 clash with Mexico is set to remain at its original kick-off time, according to the Mexican FA, following a shambolic few hours of confusion.

Thomas Tuchel and his squad took off for Mexico City not knowing whether their last-16 showdown would be brought forward six hours thanks to the threat of severe thunderstorms. 

Confusion reigned after it emerged that FIFA were in discussions over whether to shift the kick-off from 1am on Monday to 7pm on Sunday night, or potentially even earlier, thanks to the threat of thunderstorms in the area.

As fans scrambled to discover whether travel plans needed ripping up, Daily Mail Sport reported that the FA were stunned at the suggestion of the change just 48 hours out from the originally slated kick-off.

Such a move would have been a major boost for those at home, and for pubs, given the unsociable hours many braced themselves for just to watch the match on a workday.

England landed awaiting official confirmation with Tuchel and his players wary that they had already made meticulous plans for Sunday’s schedule, such as meal times and activation, which may have needed to be thrown out of the window.

Prior to an official announcement, England midfielder Morgan Rogers dismissed the importance over the kick-off time possibly changing: ‘It’s just another obstacle to overcome. We’ll take it how it is.

‘Whatever the task is in front of us, whatever problem we face or different thing that we think might be a bit difficult, we’re just going to attack full front.’

It would be brilliant news for fans in England, who faced the prospect of watching at 1am

Mexican media claim that the match at the Azteca Stadium will be brought forward six hours

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If the game is moved, England will embrace the ‘VUCA’ principles.

Senior staff have spoken about the acronym that stands for ‘Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity’, and the challenges that have to be negotiated. This is an approach adopted by the US Army and will be relayed to the squad in the next 24 hours.

Asked for his reaction to the news, England’s Marcus Rashford dismissed suggestions of it causing major problems for Tuchel’s side.

‘For us, it’s the same,’ Rashford said last night.

‘How we prepare for the game has to remain the same. We have to be focused. We have to be ready for anything, and I think it’s a strength of the group – the players, the staff – we’re ready for whatever challenges get thrown at us. Obviously, it’s not ideal, but also it doesn’t matter.’

A move towards a midday kick-off would also see a slight rise in temperature although, at 22C, conditions would be cool at the Azteca.

An earlier start – at noon local time – would also reduce the amount of time Thomas Tuchel’s players are subjected to altitude, with the match played at 7,300ft above sea level.

As things stood tonight, FA insiders said they were ‘surprised’ to hear of the news through Mexican media rather than from FIFA itself.

Attempts to get to the bottom were being made while some were en-route to the airport.

News of the reported kick-off shift went down particularly poorly with the Mexican team, with manager Javier Aguirre particularly incensed,

‘It’s like a kick in the gut; now everything has to change,’ he told reporters on Friday. 

‘It’s not that all the work is going down the drain, but almost, because you’re swallowing up six hours that you had scheduled. I don’t like it at all. Obviously, we’ll abide by what FIFA says, but neither I nor my players like it.

The tournament has already seen matches delayed by the weather but kick-off times have remained the same. In this instance, the potential duration of the storms has triggered discussions over whether bringing the match forward is the only practical solution.

It would be just the latest logistical adaptation for England prior to their impending visit to Mexico City.

Officials are planning a so-called ‘ring of steel’ around England’s Mexico City hotel – in an attempt to prevent a repeat of the raucous scenes that marred Ecuador’s visit.

Cars, fog horns, fireworks and loud music triggered a miserable night’s sleep for Mexico’s last opponents – and a complaint to FIFA.

However, it is understood that a series of measures are expected to be put in place to try and ensure Tuchel and his players do not face similar problems on the eve of their last-16 battle.

Keir Starmer has been criticised for a U-turn on pub licensing hours for the England match

The original kick-off time of 6pm local, 1am in England, caused major logistical problems for pubs eager to show the game having had great success for England matches during the tournament so far.  

After a drawn out Thursday, departing PM Keir Starmer made a significant u-turn to allow pubs to remain open until 5am to facilitate showing the last-16 match. 

But Starmer was today accused of making his U-turn on opening pubs for England’s World Cup game against Mexico too late after he bowed to popular opinion.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council criticised the timing of the Prime Minister’s move to let pubs stay open until 5am on Monday for the match after the Home Office initially resisted calls from inside government to amend licensing hours.

His late announcement means forces are now having to adapt plans and take officers away from community policing, with more than 1,000 venues staying open late.

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, NPCC lead for football policing, and Acting Chief Constable Scott Green, lead for alcohol licensing, criticised the ‘late announcement’ and asked fans to be considerate to others and drink ‘sensibly’ during the game.

Should FIFA ratify the decision to bring the match forward by six hours, it would be the very first game of the 2026 World Cup to be rearranged to a different time.

A large police presence is in place ready for England’s arrival in Mexico City later today

Officials have been working to create a ‘ring of steel’ around the team hotel in Mexico City

News of the alleged time change emerged late on Friday night when Andres Vaca, a commentator for Mexican channel TUDN, and newspaper El Universal claimed sources close to the Mexican national team were aware of a change.

England will already have to deal with the altitude in Mexico City and any change towards a midday kick-off local time would see the match take place at the day’s peak temperature.

The decision was made not to travel to Mexico City immediately after their round of 32 win over DR Congo in Atlanta, due to concerns about spying. 

Tuchel and his players returned to their Kansas City base following their dramatic 2-1 victory over DR Congo on Wednesday night, rather than heading straight to their next World Cup destination.

And Daily Mail Sport understands that one of the main reasons for doing so is to ensure Tuchel can set out his tactical blueprint and formation in a secure environment, away from prying eyes.

Throughout the tournament England have been returning to their HQ close to the middle of the US. One of the factors behind the decision to be based in Kansas City is logistical, and the fact that it means they do not have to face any long flights.

However, it is understood that Tuchel is adamant that his plans will not be leaked and that vital preparations including team shape can be held in the most well-guarded place possible.

The possibility of others spying on England has been a key part of planning and it is understood that the view within the camp is that a trip to Mexico City comes with increased risks. 

The World Cup last sixteen tie involving England could now be moved to a different kick-off time of 7pm British Summer Time (BST).

It’s because of the risk of thunderstorms, according to local media reports. This hasn’t been confirmed or denied yet.

Under safety rules, games face an automatic 30-minute delay if lightning strikes within eight miles of the stadium, with the clock resetting each time there is a new strike.

Multiple schools across the North West have been anticipating the original 1am kickoff, pushing their start times until later in the morning.

Pubs have even gone as far to draft extra staff in, so they can screen the match in the early hours.

England playmaker Morgan Rogers said of the potential change: “It’s just another obstacle to overcome. We’ll be ready regardless of the time.

“Earlier the better because you want to play. There is enough thinking about what is going to happen and the build-up – you just want to play the game.

“Getting that adrenaline out there will help us and get us going and playing. We’re looking forward to it whatever the time is.

“I’m not concerned about it, but won’t be happy if it wakes me up, I’ll be honest. We’ll deal with it as best as possible. It’s another obstacle to get over.”

The match was originally scheduled for an evening start at the Estadio Azteca, but forecasts of severe weather disruption have triggered urgent discussions about rescheduling.

FIFA has not confirmed reports that the kick-off time could change, saying only that safety considerations are being assessed.

It may mean you’ll not have to stay up until Monday morning, when the match is supposed to start at 1am.

England team-mate Marcus Rashford also downplayed the impact of a potential kick-off change.

“I think for us it’s the same, how we prepare for the game,” the forward said. “It has to be the same, we have to be focused, we have to be ready for anything.

“I think it’s one strength of the group, everyone included, the players, the staff, we’re ready for whatever challenges get thrown at us. Obviously it’s not ideal, but also it doesn’t matter.”

A kick-off alteration would only add to what England boss Tuchel knew would be “a lot, a lot, a lot of obstacles” awaiting them in Mexico.

Earlier in the tournament, severe weather had already caused disruption, with matches delayed.

One fixture involving France was halted for two hours because of storm conditions, highlighting the ongoing risk facing organisers as the competition reaches its knockout stage.

With England preparing for a high-pressure knockout match against Mexico, attention is now focused not only on the opposition but also on whether conditions will allow the game to start as planned.

If moved, the kick-off could shift to a midday local time slot, creating a very different viewing experience for fans in the United Kingdom and changing the rhythm of one of the tournament’s most anticipated games.

The Football Association has yet to receive confirmation, despite the fact that kick-off time would be less than 48 hours away. FIFA has been approached for comment.

This is a breaking news story – we will bring you more updates as they come.

An old woodland was saved in Newtownards, while eye-watering sums are to be spent to restore a statue in Comber

Ards and North Down Borough Council is winding down for the summer. While work in the background at the Church Street offices in Newtownards never stops, there will only be four meetings for elected representatives in July and August, two full council meetings and two Planning Committee meetings.

But June was a busy month, and saw the reveal of youthful first and second citizens, a victory for locals in saving an old woodland from developers, and an approval to spend eye-watering sums to restore a statue of a Napoleonic war hero.

Here is your latest round up of Ards and North Down council matters so far this summer:

Ards and North Down goes for youth as it votes new Lord Mayor and deputy

The start of the summer saw Ards and North Down Borough Council elect two of its youngest representatives into the posts of first and deputy first citizens.

At the annual meeting of the council on June 3, the chamber at Bangor Castle agreed UUP Councillor Craig Blaney and DUP Councillor James Cochrane respectively to the roles of Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the incoming term of office.

At the AGM, Mayor Blaney outlined his priorities for the year-long term, stating he wanted to champion “enterprise, entrepreneurship and ambition across Ards and North Down, while supporting local businesses, encouraging young people and promoting the borough as a place of opportunity and potential.”

Read more here

Jobs boost as new Iceland store approved for Co Down

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A new Iceland foodstore was approved for Bangor in North Down at the council’s June Planning Committee meeting.

Councillors approved an application for retail use for a long vacant existing unit, as well as retrospective extension for storage, at retail warehouse unit 1, Lesley Bloomfield Shopping Centre and Retail Park, South Circular Road, Bangor.

The development will bring a £1.5million investment to Bangor, will initially create 15 construction jobs, and later approximately 40 to 50 permanent new jobs at the store. The permanent jobs are estimated to bring £4.2 million in Gross Value Added per year to the area.

Read more here

Council looks at fast-tracking UDR cemetery memorial in Bangor despite requests failing four times

Local elected representatives agreed to look at making a memorial bench for the Ulster Defence Regiment in a North Down cemetery, after a local association failed four times in getting a bench plaque using the local council scheme.

Councillors at a committee meeting at Ards and North Down Borough Council in mid-June approved a notice of motion submitted by Independent unionist Councillors Wesley Irvine and Steven Irvine, who represent Bangor and Newtownards respectively.

The North Down branch of the Regimental Association of the UDR has failed on four occasions to get a memorial bench at the cemetery. Ards and North Down Borough Council operates a strict annual memorial bench scheme with a quota of 20 new benches per year.

Applications typically open on April 1st and are allocated on a highly competitive, first-come, first-served basis. The council motion could effectively fast-track the UDR memorial past the normal policy.

Read more here

Old County Down woodland saved from housing development by community

The Woodland Trust declared victory for a local County Down community after a long-standing wood was rescued from the threat of a housing development.

The Woodland Trust Northern Ireland welcomed a decision by the Planning Appeals Commission in mid June to block plans for five detached houses at the site of Tullynagardy Wood in Newtownards.

Last October, the controversial planning application to build five upmarket houses at woodland was rejected by elected representatives at the Ards and North Down Borough Council Planning Committee. The proposed site was on land beside the Crawfordsburn Road on the outskirts of Newtownards.

Despite elected representatives rejecting the application, the developers then went to the Planning Appeals Commission for the decision to be overturned. The commissioner upheld the council’s decision to reject the application, and dismissed the appeal.

Read more here

Council to spend nearly 100K to restore statue of Napoleonic war hero

Ards and North Down Borough Council will spend around £100,000 to restore a Victorian statue of a famous Ulster soldier in a County Down town.

Council officers recommended elected representatives grant approval for the commencement of Phase 2 works to the Rollo Gillespie Monument, Comber, funded from the £90,000 included in the rates for 2026/27.

Councillors at the Environment Committee meeting, held in mid-June in Newtownards, agreed to the recommendation for ratepayers to cover the bill, following information that officials had failed to get any external funding for the project. Around £15,000 has already been spent on Phase One of the restoration.

Read more here

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The village used to be home to an important RAF base

People in a Cambridgeshire village enjoy their “peaceful” home, but they feel it has lost its RAF “identity” and it “desperately needs” a shop. Upwood near Huntingdon is a small village home to only around 1,200 people.

The village has a strong RAF history, as it was once where RAF Upwood was based. This base was operating for nearly 100 years, after opening in 1917 and closing in 2012.

It served as a major Pathfinder base for the 156 and 139 Squadrons, and later used by the United States Air Force. Today, there is not much to mark the RAF history as the buildings still stand, but have been defaced and set on fire multiple times.

Other than its strong RAF history, people who live in Upwood feel their home is an idyllic place to live. As part of the Exploring Cambridgeshire series, we spoke to residents about what it’s like to live here.

Gareth Jones, who has lived in Upwood for 20 years, said he “loves” it. He said: “I think it’s nice and quiet, and it’s definitely rural. It could use a shop for the people who can’t get into town. But then the bus service is good and accessible.”

Gareth and his wife previously worked in the Armed Forces. He said that the RAF was once “prominent” in Upwood. On the state of the former RAF base, he added: “It’s getting built on and it’s being turned into a nice area.”

Beryl Ledbeater and Geoff Ludelow also enjoy the quiet life that Upwood offers. Beryl said she has “always had a connection” to Upwood, with many of her ancestors living here before her.

She added: “Everyone is so friendly. If you need something, people will help out.” Geoff added that Upwood is “quite a nice place”.

Beryl feels the village could use a shop. She said: “We used to have a shop and it used to be good, but then it closed. We have no facilities. We have to go to Ramsey if you want something.” Geoff said doesn’t find the lack of facilities a problem as he can drive.

When the RAF base was active in the village, Beryl and Geoff felt it made the village “classy”. Beryl said:” It’s a shame because it [RAF base] used to be loved when it was the RAF. You would always see the people walking around in their uniforms. I feel it’s lost it [RAF identity].”

On improvements they may like to make in Upwood, Geoff said he was “happy with the way it is”. However, Beryl had concerns about the parking. She added: “The parking is ridiculous. There is no space. If you have visitors there is nowhere for them to park and then most people have two cars these days as well.”

Robert Shine, who has lived in Upwood since 1990, said it is a “quiet” place with a “good community atmosphere”. He added: “The people are very friendly.”

While Robert can drive to shops, he would like to see the village have a shop. He added: “It must make it awkward for people that don’t drive, but for me I can drive into Ramsey, Bury, or Huntingdon. It would be nice to have a village shop because it would be another focus for the village.”

A woman, who wished to remain anonymous, also thinks that the village not having a shop is a problem. She said: “Everyone around here is very friendly and they are always very helpful. It’s a lovely place to live, but we are missing the basics that everyone else has like a shop.

“There used to be a good shop, but now we have nothing. I drive so it’s not as bad for me, but there are a lot of older people that live around here and it’s harder for them to get stuff.”

The woman added that the village used to have a “strong RAF identity”. However, she said: “Since the site is going to be houses, which I do feel is needed, it feels like the village has lost its RAF identity. It’s a shame. It would be nice to maybe have something to commemorate it.”

Another woman, who didn’t want to be named, said Upwood is perfect for “anyone who wants a slower life”. She said: “There isn’t much for younger people to do, but for someone like me who is retired, it’s perfect. There are lots of green spaces around here.

“So, there are some nice places to walk in the hot weather. We desperately need a shop. To have to travel further to somewhere like Ramsey for stuff like milk and bread is ridiculous.”

The woman added that she is “sad” that the former RAF base has been left “derelict and in tatters”. She added: “It’s been destroyed by fires and covered in graffiti. The houses being built there will at least put the land to good use.”

By ELEANOR MANN

Published: 22:00 BST, 3 July 2026 | Updated: 23:26 BST, 3 July 2026

An overcrowded bus has crashed in Pakistan after a passenger reportedly grabbed the driver by the neck, killing 40 people and injuring eight. 

The passenger bus was speeding before it plunged from a highway into a rocky ravine in southwestern Pakistan early on Friday, marking one of the deadliest road accidents in recent years. 

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A spokesperson for the Balochistan government, Shahid Rind, said the bus went out of control and fell into the ravine in Dana Sar, a remote area near the border of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. 

Mr Rind said the bus was carrying not only its own passengers but also those from another bus that had broken down, leaving the vehicle overcrowded. He added that the rescuers were working to identify those killed in the crash. 

One of the injured survivors told local media from his hospital bed that some passengers protested after the driver stopped to pick up people from the other bus. 

He said an argument followed, during which one passenger allegedly grabbed the driver by the neck. Moments later, he claimed the driver lost control of the bus, which fell into the ravine. 

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The account could not be independently verified and police said they are investigating the cause of the tragedy. 

News of the crash triggered a wave of grief across Pakistan as relatives frantically called emergency services, hospitals and local police seeking information about their loved ones. 

Pictured: the site of the crash in southwestern Pakistan early on Friday

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40 people were killed and eight people were injured in the tragedy, which has sent shockwaves across the country 

Reaching the wreckage proved difficult as emergency workers, backed by paramilitary forces, climbed down a steep mountainside to the ravine up to 80ft deep. 

Several hours later, rescuers carried the injured on stretchers and recovered the dead in makeshift carts, painstakingly hauling them back up the rugged slope, official Noor Zaman said. 

In the northwestern city of Peshawar, Nasir Khan said his brother on Thursday night had called from Quetta to say he was on his way home on the bus that crashed early Friday. 

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When he failed to arrive as expected, the family feared the worst. Khan said he had been desperately trying to reach authorities for information about his brother’s fate. 

A regional government administrator, Hazrat Wali Kakar, said rescuers transported the injured and dead to nearby hospitals. Most of the casualties were identified through documents but three bodies remained unidentified, he said. 

Rescue officials said the bus was carrying 48 passengers when it crashed. 

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed sorrow over the crash and offered condolences to the victims’ families. 

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Road accidents are common in Pakistan because of poor road conditions, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws and unsafe driving practices, particularly in mountainous areas. 

In May, a minibus rammed into a bus parked along a motorway in northwest Pakistan, killing 17 people and injuring five others. 

Facing a side ranked 34th in the world, Deschamps may be tempted to hand rests to some of his more established stars, with later rounds in the tournament likely to throw up opponents including Morocco, Spain or Portugal. They must be wary of falling foul to another huge upset, but the French second string should have more than enough quality to get the job done here.

A blue Kia and a police van appear badly damaged

There is a significant police scene in place in north Manchester tonight (Friday, July 3) following reports that a police vehicle has been involved in a road traffic collision.

Photos from the scene show a sizeable cordon in place at the junctions of Queens Road and Rochdale Road in Harpurhey, with vehicles from the North West Ambulance Service and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service in attendance.

GMFRS confirmed that they were called to the scene at 8:50pm and that said that all occupants of the vehicles ‘self-rescued’ and were treated at the scene by paramedics.

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A blue Kia Picanto and a police van appear to have been badly damaged in the collision, with the latter appearing to have collided with railings in the middle of the road, its front bumper completely hanging off.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said, “At around 8:50pm this evening (Friday, 3^rd July), firefighters were called to the scene of a collision between two vehicles on Queens Road in Manchester.

“One fire engine from Manchester Central fire station, along with the technical rescue unit from Leigh fire station quickly arrived at the scene. All seven occupants of the vehicles had self-rescued before the arrival of the fire service and were given care at the roadside by colleagues from the North West Ambulance Service.

“Crews handed the scene over to Greater Manchester Police before leaving around half an hour later.”

Greater Manchester Police have been approached for more information.

Ireland open their Rugby Nations Championship 2026 campaign with an away game against the Wallabies in Sydney – the first of three away games in the summer window

Ireland kick off their Nations Championship campaign with an away fixture against Australia – the first of three away matches in the summer window.

Given the competition’s format, getting off to a strong start is crucial, yet fast starts have not been a hallmark of Ireland’s game of late.

They were comprehensively beaten in Paris in the 2026 Six Nations opener and remained disjointed against Italy in the second match.

Andy Farrell has travelled without Munster out-half Jack Crowley and his number eight and captain Caelan Doris, both of whom are sidelined through injury.

As a result, the head coach has recalled Leinster number ten Sam Prendergast, who started the opening two Six Nations fixtures before being dropped from the matchday squad for the final three, reports the Irish Mirror.

A natural replacement for Doris was readily available, and Farrell did precisely what he did with the 2025 Lions, slotting Jack Conan into the number eight position.

Cian Prendergast steps into Conan’s customary berth at number six, while Dan Sheehan takes on the captaincy.

Australia are heading into their first 2026 Test having lost seven of their last eight matches, including a defeat to Ireland in Dublin last November.

Full-back Jock Campbell returns for his first Test appearance in four years, while concerns remain over whether they can withstand a straightforward physical contest up front, where second-row Josh Canham is set to make his first start.

Here’s what you need to know about this fixture:.

Who: Australia vs Ireland.

What: Nations Championship (first round of six fixtures) Other first round NC fixtures: New Zealand v France, 8.10am, One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch; Japan v Italy, 9.40am, Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium, Tokyo; Australia v Ireland, 11.10am, Sydney Football Stadium; Fiji v Wales, 2.10am, Cardiff City Stadium; South Africa v England, 4.40pm, Ellis Park, Johannesburg; Argentina v Scotland, 8.10pm, Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes, Cordoba.

Where: Allianz Stadium, Sydney.

When: Saturday, July 4th.

Kick-off: 8.10pm local – 11.10am Irish.

Referee: Ben O’Keefe (NZ) TMO:.

QUOTES CORNER.

Ireland Coach Andy Farrell on selecting Sam Prendergast again: “The way that he’s handled the last month is a credit to him in regards to taking responsibility for the shirt and his chance to build through those last few games and finish it off with a top performance in a big game in the final. He’s once again earned the right to do that.”

Australia Coach Joe Schmidt: We don’t feel like we’re miles away, but execution of that plan is the essence of success or failure. There’s always a plan, and that plan has always got to be adaptable because Ireland will squeeze you.

I know last time I was here in 2018, we felt we had an advantage. I know that the rhythm the players had from playing finals footy, that is an advantage without a doubt.

Ireland number eight Jack Conan reflected on Australia’s capabilities ahead of the clash: “A lot of us were down here last year (with the Lions) and saw how good they could be. They had some unbelievable periods of play throughout the three Tests, and they’re not a side you can take lightly.”

He also highlighted the threat posed by key Australian players: “Obviously, Joe [Schmidt] would know us very well and still some of the players in the group. Harry Wilson, obviously a leader for them. He was great last year in the Test matches. Rob Valetini, an unbelievable athlete as well. Fraser McReight, I think he’s number one for turnover steals in Super Rugby. They’re a pretty dynamic and fearsome trio when they’re on it.”

Betting odds: Australia 6/5 Draw 22/1 Australia 8/11.

Handicap: Australia Plus-2.

Popular Bets: Ireland to win both halves 2/1; each team to score 12+ points in each half 15/2; Dan Sheehan to score first try 9/1, to score anytime try 6/5; Garry Ringrose to score a try and Ireland to win 11/2.

What TV channel is it on?

Virgin Media, Premier Sports.

LINE-UPS:.

Australia: Jock Campbell (Queensland Reds); Max Jorgensen (NSW Waratahs), Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (NSW Waratahs), Len Ikitau (NSW Waratahs), Dylan Pietsch (Western Force); Carter Gordon (Queensland Reds), Ryan Lonergan (ACT Brumbies); Angus Bell (NSW Waratahs), Josh Nasser (Queensland Reds), Allan Alaalatoa (ACT Brumbies), Jeremy Williams (Western Force), Josh Canham (Queensland Reds), Rob Valetini (ACT Brumbies), Fraser McReight (Queensland Reds), Harry Wilson (Queensland Reds, capt). Replacements: Brandon Paenga-Amosa (Western Force), James Slipper (ACT Brumbies), Taniela Tupou (Racing 92), Lachlan Shaw (ACT Brumbies), Tom Hooper (Exeter Chiefs), Tate McDermott (Queensland Reds), Ben Donaldson (Western Force), Tom Wright (ACT Brumbies).

Ireland: Hugo Keenan (Leinster); Rob Baloucoune (Ulster), Garry Ringrose (Leinster), Stuart McCloskey (Ulster), Jamie Osborne (Leinster); Sam Prendergast (Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Tom O’Toole (Ulster), Dan Sheehan (Leinster, capt), Tadhg Furlong (Leinster), Joe McCarthy (Leinster), James Ryan (Leinster), Cian Prendergast (Connacht), Josh van der Flier (Leinster), Jack Conan (Leinster).

Replacements: Rónan Kelleher (Leinster), Jeremy Loughman (Munster), Thomas Clarkson (Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Munster), Nick Timoney (Ulster), Craig Casey (Munster), Ciarán Frawley (Leinster), Bundee Aki (Connacht).

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A formal request has been submitted to Sunderland City Council for a screening opinion, to determine whether a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be needed.

The proposed 3km pipeline would link Sedgeletch Sewage Treatment Works (STW) near Houghton-le-Spring to a new discharge point on the River Wear.

Proposed pipeline location. (Image: Lichfields)

The pipe would be capable of carrying up to 339 litres per second of final treated effluent away from Herrington Burn and into the River Wear.

The underground transfer system would form part of Northumbrian Water’s £11 million Sedgeletch Environmental Improvement scheme, which aims to reduce pollutants and meet future water quality standards under the Water Framework Directive.

The proposed outfall location on the River Wear, near the Washington Highway’s Chartershaugh Bridge. (Image: Google Maps)

Current documents show that the existing discharge location does not meet future Water Framework Directive targets for phosphorus, zinc, and cypermethrin.

The new scheme is designed to address this and supports Northumbrian Water’s wider programme of upgrades along the Wear catchment area.

The screening opinion process marks an early stage in which the council considers potential impacts and publishes documents the public can inspect.

If the scheme goes ahead, it would involve installing the new pipe from the treatment works to the River Wear, along with two large underground structures and a new concrete headwall at the riverbank to house the outfall.

The Sedgeletch upgrade is part of a wider programme of wastewater infrastructure improvements by Northumbrian Water, focusing on reducing river pollution and supporting compliance with evolving water quality regulations.