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Catherine Zeta Jones leads tributes to relative Bonnie Tyler as she recalls singer performing at her wedding while Cliff Richard honours his ‘wonderful friend’ as she dies aged 75

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Catherine Zeta Jones and Cliff Richard led the tributes to Bonnie Tyler following the news that the Total Eclipse Of The Heart icon died aged 75

Catherine Zeta Jones and Cliff Richard led the tributes to Bonnie Tyler following the news that the Total Eclipse Of The Heart icon died aged 75.

The Welsh pop star, whose real name is Gaynor Hopkins, died just months after she was treated in intensive care after being placed in an induced coma following an emergency intestinal surgery.

Fellow Welsh native Catherine, 56, revealed she had a close relationship with Bonnie after she married her cousin Robert and sang at her wedding to Michael Douglas.

Sharing her tribute alongside a picture of them together, she wrote: ‘My heart is broken with the news that our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away. Bonnie was married to my cousin and has been such a part of my life. We are photographed here together the night before my wedding. 

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‘So sang and rocked it at my wedding. An extraordinary woman with vocals to match. A one of kind artist, who so easily could have been a comedian because she was one of the funniest people I ever met. 

‘Thank you Bonnie for the joy you brought so many. Sleep tight beautiful lady. We shall forever ‘Keep A Welcome In The Hillsides’ of Wales for you. Sending my love to Robert and the family. God Bless.’

Catherine Zeta Jones and Cliff Richard led the tributes to Bonnie Tyler following the news that the Total Eclipse Of The Heart icon died aged 75

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Fellow Welsh native Catherine, 56, revealed she had a close relationship with Bonnie after she married her cousin Robert and sang at her wedding to Michael Douglas

Fellow Welsh native Catherine, 56, revealed she had a close relationship with Bonnie after she married her cousin Robert and sang at her wedding to Michael Douglas

Sir Cliff spoke of his 'wonderful friend' Bonnie on Facebook and shared a picture of himself with the late star

Sir Cliff spoke of his ‘wonderful friend’ Bonnie on Facebook and shared a picture of himself with the late star

Sir Cliff spoke of his ‘wonderful friend’ Bonnie on Facebook and shared a picture of himself with the late star.

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He said: ‘Another wonderful friend gone too soon. Bonnie’s infectious zest for life entertained so many around the world, and to be a good friend to all, including me.

‘It is shocking news to wake up to you this morning and I send my love to her family at this very sad time. RIP Bonnie…. Cliff’.

Sir Rod Stewart also shared a message for his ‘good pal’, writing: ‘We shared similar styles of vocalising. She was a good pal, a true soul stirrer. I sing It’s A Heartache every night on tour. I’ll miss you darling, Bonnie.’

American singer Suzi Quatro said of the iconic singer: ‘She took a song by the balls. Rest in peace, my friend, rest in peace.’

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Bonnie is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan. 

The statement on her website read on Thursday: ‘Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for.’ 

Vernon, 52, was among the first to pay tribute to Bonnie on his Radio 2 show, before playing her famous track Holding Out For A Hero.

Sir Rod Stewart also shared a message for his 'good pal', writing: 'We shared similar styles of vocalising. She was a good pal, a true soul stirrer. I sing It's A Heartache every night on tour. I'll miss you darling, Bonnie'

Sir Rod Stewart also shared a message for his ‘good pal’, writing: ‘We shared similar styles of vocalising. She was a good pal, a true soul stirrer. I sing It’s A Heartache every night on tour. I’ll miss you darling, Bonnie’

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Vernon, 52, was among the first to pay tribute to Bonnie on his Radio 2 show, before playing her famous track Holding Out For A Hero (stock image)

Vernon, 52, was among the first to pay tribute to Bonnie on his Radio 2 show, before playing her famous track Holding Out For A Hero (stock image) 

Nicole shared this throwback picture of Bonnie on Instagram Stories after learning the sad news

Nicole shared this throwback picture of Bonnie on Instagram Stories after learning the sad news 

Nicole, pictured, simply wrote: 'Bonnie RIP' alongside a love heart emoji

Nicole, pictured, simply wrote: ‘Bonnie RIP’ alongside a love heart emoji

This Morning hosts, Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley also paid tribute to Bonnie on the daytime show, saying 'really, really sad news' and commenting on what a lovely lady she was

This Morning hosts, Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley also paid tribute to Bonnie on the daytime show, saying ‘really, really sad news’ and commenting on what a lovely lady she was 

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He said: ‘Sad news that Bonnie Tyler has passed, so from us on mid-mornings on BBC Radio 2 and everyone on Radio 2, our thoughts are with her family.’

All Saints singer Nicole Appleton, 51, shared a throwback picture of Bonnie on Instagram Stories soon after hearing the news. 

She simply wrote: ‘Bonnie RIP’ alongside a love heart emoji. 

And This Morning hosts, Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley also paid tribute to Bonnie on the daytime show.

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Ben said: ‘Really, really sad news has been announced just a few moments ago on Bonnie Tyler’s website.’

Nick Ferrari said: ‘I remember interviewing her years ago because I was the pop reporter on The Sun at the time of Duran Duran and all these people and she was the most grounded person.

‘She was lovely to interview and honestly, I remember her saying she couldn’t quite believe how lucky she’d been, you know, a girl from Wales and she never took it for granted, always grounded and really, really decent matter. Great loss.’

Cat said that she had bumped into Bonnie backstage at ITV when she had appeared on Lorraine in February, saying: ‘She was a lovely lady.’

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Ben said: ‘Our thoughts are with all her her friends and family during this really distressing time.’

A representative for BBC’s Eurovision team also paid tribute to ‘humble and kind’ Bonnie, after she represented the UK in the contest back in 2013.

They said: ‘The BBC Eurovision team are greatly saddened to hear the news that Bonnie Tyler, who represented the UK at Eurovision in 2013 passed away last night.

‘Bonnie was a music legend and we were truly honoured that such an iconic performer represented the UK.

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‘Behind the scenes she was humble, huge fun and very kind. She brought energy to the contest and was a joy to spend time with. We all have such fond memories. Our thoughts and best wishes go to Bonnie’s family.’

Elsewhere, many fans paid tribute on X, writing: ‘Such sad news about Bonnie Tyler. She was always one of those ”what you see, is what you get” pop stars. The big voice, the big hair, big 80s production matched her personality – larger than life, yet down to earth. Farewell to one of Wales’ finest performers.

‘RIP Bonnie Tyler, thank you for giving us the best Nicholas Galitzine scene ever, Jeff singing to Total Eclipse Of The Heart in Bottoms is iconic.

‘Dear Bonnie Tyler, thank you for your magnificent voice, the big smiles, the huge joy you have brought to us over the years. What a gift.’

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Bonnie was due to perform at the Sunshine Festival in Worcester this summer, along with a number of European dates, and was also booked to perform at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on December 17. 

The singer was first admitted to hospital in May to be treated for emergency bowel surgery and a perforated intestine after a burst appendix. 

A spokesperson for the singer confirmed at the time: ‘Bonnie has been put into an induced coma by her doctors to aid her recovery. We know that you all wish her well and ask for privacy at this difficult time please. 

Bonnie died after going into cardiac arrest following surgery which left her in an induced coma (the singer is pictured in her last TV appearance in February)

Bonnie died after going into cardiac arrest following surgery which left her in an induced coma (the singer is pictured in her last TV appearance in February) 

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Following news of Bonnie's death, many fans paid tribute on X

Following news of Bonnie’s death, many fans paid tribute on X

‘We will issue a further statement when we are able to.’

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It was first reported that Bonnie had started feeling unwell in May.

She had been bedridden for two days at her Algarve home before her worried husband Robert Sullivan took her to the private hospital she was seen at before being transferred to Faro.

The singer, who has had multiple hits in her long career and competed at the Eurovision Song Contest representing the UK in 2013, is believed to have been rushed to hospital on April 30. 

A day earlier, when her health woes first emerged, the spokesman had said: ‘We are very sorry to announce that Bonnie has been admitted to hospital in Faro, Portugal, where she has a home, for emergency intestinal surgery.

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‘The surgery went well and she is now recuperating.

‘We know that all of her family, friends and fans will be concerned about this news and will be wishing her well for a full and swift recovery.’

She was said to have been ‘stable’ in an intermediate care unit at Faro Hospital before an apparent worsening of her health led to her being transferred to intensive care.

On June 15, the singer’s team said she had woken up from a medically induced coma after suffering a cardiac arrest in Portugal a month previously.

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They said at the time: ‘Bonnie is no longer in a coma, but remains seriously ill. Although her condition is improving, the recovery process is slow.’

Sources said she had been maintaining her professional activity in the run-up to being taken to hospital, despite complaining of persistent pain for several weeks.

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops pumping blood, causing it to stop beating and disrupting oxygen flow to the body and brain.

It causes instant unconsciousness and collapse. Immediate action involving starting CPR and using a defibrillator where available is essential to prevent death.

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A ruptured appendix is a severe medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention and antibiotics to prevent fatal infections.

When an infected appendix ruptures, it creates a hole and causes fecal matter and bacteria to leak into the abdominal cavity.

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Hot sleepers should switch to this type of bed sheet, according to experts

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Hot sleepers should switch to this type of bed sheet, according to experts

There’s nothing worse than finally climbing into bed after a long day, only to spend the night tossing and turning because you’re too hot to sleep. While things like your bedroom temperature, bedtime routine and the weather all play a part, your bedding has a bigger impact than you might realise. The wrong sheets can trap heat, hold onto moisture and leave you waking up hot, sweaty and uncomfortable, especially during a heatwave.

The good news is that the right sheets can make a noticeable difference. But staying cool at night isn’t simply a case of choosing the thinnest fabric you can find. Different materials vary in how breathable they are, how well they wick away moisture and how easily air can circulate, meaning some are far better suited to hot sleepers than others.

To find out which sheets are really worth investing in, I spoke to sleep experts about what to look for when shopping for cooling bedding, the materials they recommend and why the right fabric can help you sleep more comfortably.

Read more: How to wash and care for linen bedding

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What sheet material is best for people who sleep hot?

Dr. Louis Lerebours, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician at Freeman Recovery Center says the best materials for hot sleepers are those with “natural breathable fibres with good air circulation.” These materials can include cotton, linen, bamboo-derived viscose, and Tencel.

He explains: “These breathable fibres will also allow your body to move some moisture during the course of the night. This is important because most people who experience excessive nighttime sweating (or what’s commonly referred to as night sweats) have an inability to move enough sweat out of their skin to cool themselves down properly during the night. In other words, they retain too much heat in the upper layers of their skin. As this excess heat builds up, it causes them to become excessively warm and sweaty at night. So, breathable fabrics may be beneficial to you if you find yourself getting hot and waking up multiple times throughout the night.”

How do different fabrics compare when it comes to breathability and temperature regulation?

According to Dr. Lerebours, there are some differences in how these materials work. Linen, he explains, is made with a large weave that doesn’t cling to the skin, whereas cotton will feel cooler due to its crisper texture.

“Bamboo and Tencel are also examples of breathable sheet materials,” he adds. “They’re also softer than heavier materials such as microfibre or densely woven sateen.”

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How to reduce your temperature while sleeping

There are some sleep tricks you can follow to try and stop your body temperature rising at night. According to Dr Tim Mercer, NHS GP partner and GP trainer, adjusting your sleep position helps more than you might think.

“Sleeping on your side can improve airflow and reduce contact between your body and heat-retaining surfaces like your mattress and bedding,” he explains. “Minimising contact points may help your body stay cooler overnight. If you share a bed, avoid physical contact during sleep, as body heat transfer can worsen discomfort.”

Best linen bedding

Best cotton bedding

Meet the experts

  • Dr. Louis Lerebours, MD: Bard-certified family medicine physician at Freeman Recovery Center
  • Dr Tim Mercer: NHS GP partner and GP trainer

Experts share whether linen bedding is better than cotton

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‘Superb ambassadors’ – Ryhope Junior School wins ‘strong’ from Ofsted

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‘Superb ambassadors’ - Ryhope Junior School wins 'strong' from Ofsted

Ryhope Junior School in Sunderland was rated as meeting ‘strong standards’ in four out of six categories following a visit by Ofsted.

The team praised the school’s environment, describing it as one where pupils “feel safe, are happy and feel valued as members of ‘Team RJS’.”

The report also underlines the quality of relationships and safeguarding culture at Ryhope.

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Well‑trained and vigilant staff are said to understand the context of each individual pupil, building highly positive relationships that create a clear sense of care and nurture.

Inspectors note that bullying, derogatory language and other poor behaviours are “very rare”, and that pupils have confidence that problems will be dealt with swiftly and effectively.

Inspectors said: “Pupils at Ryhope are very well prepared for life in the community beyond the school gates.”

They also found them to be “superb ambassadors for their school.”

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Ofsted noted that the school’s focus on personal development, behaviour, inclusion, and leadership were particular strengths.

The report highlighted the pride pupils take in their roles across the school and the positive impact of these responsibilities on attendance.

Inspectors also commended the “very high-quality pastoral support” and the effectiveness of tailored assistance for pupils with additional needs.

In the two categories rated as ‘expected standard’, Ofsted recognised the progress made in curriculum and achievement.

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The report noted that while most pupils achieve well and are prepared for the next stage of their education, further work is needed to close the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.

“A collaborative approach between leaders and governors ensures that their actions have demonstrable impact”, it added.

The school’s motto of “learn to live” is described as central to pupils’ wider development, with inspectors concluding that pupils are valued members of a community where they “do very well from their different starting points.”

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How Ricky Gervais Kept The BBC At Bay When Making The Office

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How Ricky Gervais Kept The BBC At Bay When Making The Office

It’s now been 25 years since The Office premiered on the BBC – and changed comedy forever.

To mark the occasion, the show’s creator – and David Brent himself – Ricky Gervais recently reminisced to Empire about making the classic sitcom

During the interview, the After Life creator was asked just how much intervention there was from the BBC when he was making his breakthrough comedy series, to which he admitted that the broadcaster “really didn’t” have too many notes for him at the time.

However, he did admit then when suggestions came in, he purposefully tried to keep the broadcaster away from his show.

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“I remember thinking whenever I walked into the BBC or on to the set, that I had a big flaming sign on me saying, ‘Get away, get away from me!’,” he joked. “And I think that’s because I was in my late thirties and I was thinking, ‘Just let me fail, just let me fucking fail, right?’.”

He continued: “There was a time when we were in the edit and I was told ‘Oh they didn’t like this’, and I said, ’Okay, send it back to them with a note saying, ‘How’s this?, but don’t change anything’, and the reply came back saying, ‘Thanks – much better’.”

Ricky Gervais as David Brent in the original UK version of The Office

He also shared an anecdote about BBC producer Jon Plowman, who questioned the initial demo video he’d made showcasing David Brent in all his cringeworthy glory.

The Bafta winner recalled: “He really liked it but he had one question: ‘If David Brent is so bad at his job, how has he kept it?’. And I said, ‘Let’s have a walk around the BBC, shall we?’. And he laughed and said, ‘Good point’. And that was it.”

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Ricky’s interview comes amid remarks from co-star Martin Freeman that he was “annoyed” that the show’s creators had claimed that nothing was improvised on-set – which is clearly not how he remembers things.

A quarter-century on from its debut, The Office is now considered one of the most important TV shows of the 21st century.

It has spawned numerous international remakes, most notably a US version starring Steve Carell, and started a trend for mockumentary sitcoms like Parks And Recreation and Abbott Elementary.

Last year, a spin-off of The Office US, The Paper, premiered in the US, starring Domnhal Gleesson as the new editor-in-chief of a struggling local paper.

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Glasgow city centre street taped off after report of late-night rape

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Daily Record

The area has been taped off by police.

A street has been taped off by police in Glasgow after reports of a late-night rape.

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Officers were called to the scene on Warroch Street near the city centre at around 10.45pm on Wednesday, July 8. Police say inquiries into the street attack are at an early stage.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 10.45pm on Wednesday, 8 July, we received a report of a serious sexual assault in the Warroch Street area of Glasgow. Inquiries are ongoing and at an early stage.”

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit dailyrecord.co.uk

Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

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Park closes as Live at York Museum Gardens set to begin

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Park closes as Live at York Museum Gardens set to begin

The gates of one of York’s best used parks are currently locked whilst the heatwave rages on and preparations get underway for Live at York Museum Gardens – a music festival led by Futuresound Group.

Live at York Museum Gardens returns from Thursday, July 9, to Saturday, July 11, followed by the York Comedy Festival at the venue on Sunday, July 12.


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This year’s festival opens its doors at 5pm with a sold-out headline performance from synth-pop duo Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, who will be joined by Heaven 17 and China Crisis as well as rising star singer-songwriter Andrew Cushin.

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Taking the Friday night slot – also at 5 – is Mercy Prize nominated artists Self Esteem, supported by  by London-based indie group the Big Moon, South African “future ghetto funk” pioneer Moonchild Sanelly and Nigeria-born now Sweden-based spoken word artist and musician Joshua Idehen.

Super Furry Animals will close the music festival on the Saturday from 4pm, with indie musician Baxter Dury, indie-pop’s Los Campesinos!, Nottingham-based alt-country band Divorce and Welsh Music Prize nominees Pys Melyn.

A notice on the gates of Museum Gardens (Image: Ben Hardy)

On the Sunday, York Comedy Festival will see performances from Russell Howard, Ross Noble, Joanne McNally and more from 3pm.

Rachel Hill, project manager at Futuresound, said the group is “so proud of how Live at York Museum Gardens has grown”.

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She said: “We’re looking forward to seeing the changes we’ve made to the site this year, ensuring that everyone enjoys their time in such a beautiful space.

“None of this would have been possible without the continued collaboration, trust and support of the team at York Museums Trust; the opportunity to put together such an incredible bill for the summer makes us excited for the future of our partnership.”

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Andy Burnham planning for Downing Street for at least a year, top ally Louise Haigh says

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Daily Mirror

Former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh, who is tipped for a major role in a Burnham Cabinet, insisted Andy Burnham had a blueprint for his first 100 days in No10

PM-in-waiting Andy Burnham has been working on his plan for Downing Street for at least a year, close ally Louise Haigh has said.

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The former Transport Secretary – tipped for a major role in a Burnham Cabinet – insisted the ex-Greater Manchester Mayor had a blueprint for his first 100 days in No10.

Her comments came as Mr Burnham’s path to power became clearer as nominations opened on Thursday in the Labour leadership contest to replace Keir Starmer.

Former defence minister Al Carns – believed to be his last remaining Labour MP mulling a challenge- confirmed he would not stand against him. It means Mr Burnham will almost inevitably take office on July 20 without a contest.

Appearing on the BBC’s Political Thinking podcast, Ms Haigh was asked how long Mr Burnham had been thinking about what he might do as Prime Minister.

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She replied: “I don’t think I am breaking any state secrets to say Andy has been thinking and has had his ambition, his ambitions have been clear for some time.”

She added: “Of course he’s run for leader twice before, so this is hopefully, touch wood, third time, third-time lucky. So he’s, you know, he’s been thinking about this and certainly planning for this, for this moment, for at least a year.”

Asked on whether there was a plan for the first 100 days, Ms Haigh said: “Yes, of course there’s a plan.” But she added: “I’m not going to tell you about it here.”

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Ms Haigh – a crucial figure in Mr Burnham’s victorious Makerfield by-election campaign – has been involved in transition talks with the civil service in recent weeks.

She has been working alongside Mr Burnham and James Purnell, who is set to be the new No10 chief-of-staff, with a focus on national security, the economy, and devolution.

It follows the admission from Mr Starmer’s ex-chief-of-staff, Morgan McSweeney, that Labour did not enough to prepare for power in the run-up to the 2024 general election.

He said early mistakes including the decision to cut winter fuel payments for pensioners, “defined the government in a way that really did us a lot of damage”.

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Ms Haigh rejected claims Mr Burnham was “unprepared or inexperienced” because of his nine years away from Westminster while Mayor of Greater Manchester.

She said: “He has spent that time thinking very deeply about how the country is run, what holds regions like Greater Manchester, and therefore most regions and the devolved nations of this country, back. He has got very, very clear ideas and a plan to put that right.”

Ms Haigh also criticised the outgoing Mr Starmer for the “hurtful” way he removed her from Cabinet and accused his operation of deliberately seeking to “knock my character down” with briefings afterwards.

The Sheffield Heeley MP quit as transport secretary in 2024, several months after Labour came into power, after it emerged she had pleaded guilty to a criminal offence related to incorrectly telling police that a work mobile phone was stolen in 2013.

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She told the BBC that Downing Street had initially signed off a statement from her saying she had previously disclosed the matter to Mr Starmer – but then his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney rang and asked her to resign.

She said: “I had to really push even for a conversation with Keir, he didn’t want to have that conversation with him himself, and both Morgan and he kept saying, ‘Well, additional information has emerged’, but at no point would any of them tell me what that additional information was.

“And afterwards they repeated that. And it was painful because they could have said, ‘Look, these headlines are awful, and it’s not going to be nice for you to ride them out’.

“And it wasn’t. And to be honest, I would have agreed, and I would have gone on that basis because I didn’t particularly want to ride them out. It was embarrassing, and it wasn’t pleasant to go through.

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“But to pretend that I hadn’t told him and to brief so consistently and so viciously for quite a number of weeks after that was a deliberate attempt to knock my character down.”

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Who’s in the cast of Strictly 2026? Every confirmed contestant including bombshell ‘professional dancer’

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Who's in the cast of Strictly 2026? Every confirmed contestant including bombshell 'professional dancer'
Dust off those dancing shoes – it’s Strictly season! (Picture: BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing fever is well underway ahead of the 2026 series, with several members of the cast already being revealed.

This year’s batch of competitors will no doubt be hoping to replicate the success of Lioness Karen Carney and professional partner Carlos Gu, who emerged as last year’s winners.

And the newcomers will be joining Strictly at an important time, with a number of enormous changes taking place on the BBC’s flagship dancing show.

This, of course, includes the departure of hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman – replaced by three new hosts (count ’em!) in broadcaster Emma Willis, comedian Josh Widdicombe, and pro dancer Johannes Radebe.

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The pro dancer line-up has also undergone some sweeping changes too, with fan favourites Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk, Karen Hauer, Michelle Tsiakkas and Gorka Márquez having departed, while Neil Jones and Nancy Xu will be ‘benched’ without a partner.

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As bosses look to usher Strictly into a new era – hopefully scandal-free from now on – let’s take a look at who has been confirmed and who is rumoured for the 2026 line-up.

Who is confirmed in the Strictly Come Dancing cast 2026?

Cach Mercer

Social media star and Love Island champion Cach Mercer
In at number five is Love Island’s very own Cach Mercer (Picture: BBC)

Rolling in at number five is influencer Cach Mercer, who is already in good standing after winning reality show Love Island with his partner Toni Laites in 2025.

Off the back of his Casa Amor victory, he’s trading sunny days in Mallorca for the high-energy Strictly dance floor.

Although he may well feel right at home, given his social media fame comes from posts showing off his Afrobeat, hip-hop and street dance moves.

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‘I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast. Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can’t wait to learn Ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!’ he said in a statement.

Time will tell if his moves, which have won over 1.3 million TikTok followers and counting, will be enough for the general public.

Chris Appleton

Chris Appleton is the fourth celebrity contestant confirmed for Strictly Come Dancing 2026
Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton is joining the fray (Picture: BBC)

Born in Leicester, the 43-year-old creative has made it all the way to Hollywood as a hairstylist to the stars, including bestie Kim Kardashian and other A-listers like J-Lo, Sofia Vergara, and Ariana Grande.

In 2023, Kim K even officiated his wedding to screenstar Lukas Gage (the couple later divorced), and his career continues to ascend even higher.

Now, he’s cha-chaing his way onto the dance floor to show just what he’s soaked up from all the performers he’s hung out with over the years.

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He said in a statement: ‘I’ve always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new.

‘I may know my way around a salon floor, but the dance floor is a whole different story – and I can’t wait to get started.’

Delta Goodrem

Delta Goodrem was the third star announced (Picture: BBC)

The Australian singer-songwriter, Delta Goodrem, was just 15 years old when she signed her first record deal and her careers gone from strength to strength ever since.

The 41-year-old has released seven albums, sold millions of copies, and even represented Australia at Eurovision 2026 – basically, she knows the stage like the back of her hand.

Still, there’s a difference between singing and dancing, but that’s a challenge Deta is keen to take on.

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‘I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career – from TV, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world, there is, however, one stage I’ve never stepped onto, and that is the ballroom floor,’ she said in a statement.

‘I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Strictly and can’t wait to get started!’

With an attitude like that, is it any wonder Delta has reportedly been on the Strictly boss’s wishlist for years?

Lacey Turner

Lacey Turner official Strictly Come Dancing promo
Lacey Turner is leading the charge for the confirmed Strictly 2026 cast (Picture: BBC)

She’s been playing EastEnders’ favourite Stacey Slater for over 20 years, but now Lacey Turner is set to appear on the BBC in a very different way.

As the 38-year-old soap actress takes a break from Albert Square to pursue new ventures, it seems her journey is taking her from the cobblestones straight onto the dance floor.

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In the announcement, Lacey wrote: ‘I am so excited to be making my way to the dance floor this year to be a part of Strictly Come Dancing.

‘I am a huge fan and can’t quite believe I will be taking part and not watching at home this year! I look forward to meeting everyone and learning a new skill!’

It wouldn’t be the first time an EastEnders icon has appeared on Strictly – who could forget Jake Wood (aka Max Branning) with his Mambo No. 5 salsa?

Dani Dyer

Dani Dyer attends the Sky Up Next event in celebration of forthcoming Sky shows at Freemason's Hall in London. Picture date: Wednesday March 18, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Ian West/PA Wire
Will Dani Dyer return to finish what she started? (Picture: Ian West/PA Wire)

Poor Dani Dyer had one of the briefest Strictly stints ever last year, as she was forced to withdraw shortly after the launch show due to an ankle fracture. But now – she’s back!

Dani was originally partnered with Nikita Kuzmin, who went on to reach the final with Amber Davies when she filled in at the last minute.

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The reality TV star previously said on The Jonathan Ross Show that she would ‘love’ to do Strictly again, saying: ”If they rang me, I’d answer the phone. I was devastated. It was hell for me when I hurt my foot; I was so sad.’

Her dream has now become a reality, as she’s become the second celebrity to be confirmed for the 2026 line-up.

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‘I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September! I just cannot wait to get my dancing shoes back on and hopefully this time around I can actually make it to week one!’ the 29-year-old said in a statement.

‘I’m just over the moon and cannot wait to find out who else is doing it!’

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Who is rumoured for the Strictly Come Dancing cast 2026?

Dame Sarah Storey

CORRECTION / Gold medallist Britain's Sarah Storey celebrates on the podium after winning the women's cycling road individual C5 time trial during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games at the Fuji International Speedway in Oyama on August 31, 2021. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP) / The erroneous mention[s] appearing in the metadata of this photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU has been modified in AFP systems in the following manner: [August 31] instead of [August 30]. Please immediately remove the erroneous mention[s] from all your online services and delete it (them) from your servers. If you have been authorized by AFP to distribute it (them) to third parties, please ensure that the same actions are carried out by them. Failure to promptly comply with these instructions will entail liability on your part for any continued or post notification usage. Therefore we thank you very much for all your attention and prompt action. We are sorry for the inconvenience this notification may cause and remain at your disposal for any further information you may require. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
It’s believed that Dame Sarah Storey will be the next name confirmed (Picture: Getty Images)

Paralympic athlete Dame Sarah Storey, 37, is said to have signed up to this series of Strictly, with an official announcement rumoured to be on the cards.

A source told The Sun: ‘Sarah is delighted to be taking part in Strictly and is really excited to be learning a new skill.

‘She is obviously very competitive and hopes to give the contest her all, while letting viewers get to know her personality.

‘She’s also keen to embrace the glamour of the show and is looking forward to getting dressed up.’

Cyclist Dame Sarah is Britain’s most successful Paralympian, having won 30 medals – including 19 Gold – over the course of her career.

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She had been due to compete in last year’s Dancing on Ice, but was forced to withdraw after sustaining an injury while training.

Jeff Brazier

Editorial use only Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock (15233130l) Jeff Brazier 'Loose Men' TV show, London, UK - 01 Apr 2025
Jeff Brazier is the former partner of late Big Brother star of Jade Goody (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

The Brazier name will be familiar to Strictly fans – in 2023, EastEnders actor and model Bobby Brazier danced his way to runner-up with professional partner Dianne Buswell.

According to The Sun, Bobby’s father, 47-year-old Jeff, is in talks to compete in the upcoming series of the show.

A source told the publication that he had become ‘tempted’ after being approached by the BBC.

The insider added: ‘Previously he said he wouldn’t do it because he didn’t want to step on Bobby’s toes. But three years have passed now and it’s a massive opportunity for Jeff.

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‘He has discussed it with Bobby who thinks it would be amazing if his dad was to give it a go. Jeff has yet to sign his contract but everyone around him is urging him to do it.’

Josie Gibson

Josie Gibson
Josie Gibson is said to have been on the Strictly bosses’ wish list for a while (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

She rose to fame as a Big Brother winner and has since cemented herself as a British TV favourite.

Josie Gibson is now often seen presenting on This Morning, and, in 2023, she placed fourth in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

If reports are to be believed, though, she could be looking to at least earn herself a place on the podium by signing up to Strictly and wowing on the dance floor.

‘Josie has been on the BBC’s radar for a while, and they’ve not given up their pursuit,’ said a source.

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They added to The Sun that the ball has already started: ‘They’re hoping this year is the year, and talks are progressing well.’

‘Bosses are convinced her down-to-earth charm will be the boost this year’s new-look show needs,’ the insider also claimed. ‘Warm and engaging, she’s just what they require right now and will be a sure-fire hit with fans.’

Josie, 41, certainly wouldn’t be the first ITV daytime star to tackle Strictly, with previous series signing up the likes of Alison Hammond, Ruth Langsford, Charlotte Hawkins, and, who could forget, Ed Balls.

Jake Quickenden

Editorial use only Mandatory Credit: Photo by Shutterstock (4272195ez) Jake Quickenden 'I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!' TV Programme, Australia - 28 Nov 2014 Jake discusses the problems of fame with other celebs
I’m A Celeb’s Jake Quickenden is no stranger to reality TV (Picture: Shutterstock)

Rising to fame on the X-Factor in 2012, Jake Quickenden has his roots in reality TV.

Subsequently appearing on I’m A Celeb and Dancing On Ice (which he won, back in 2018), Jake currently stars in the CBBC series Jamie Johnson FC.

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Of those Strictly rumours, a source told The Sun: that he’d ‘caught the eye of the Strictly bookers.’

They added: ‘He’s fun, hunky and known as an all-round nice guy. He’s an actor and singer, so is a natural performer. And he won Dancing On Ice, so has clearly got the moves. And now he’s in the BBC stables, he’s part of the gang.’

The 37-year-old star said that he’d be keen to take part, revealing that he’d ‘love to do it’ should the opportunity arise.

Strictly Come Dancing returns to the BBC in September.

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A version of this article was first published on May 31, 2026.

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Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Cast: Love Island’s Cach Mercer Joins Line-Up

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Strictly Come Dancing 2026 Cast: Love Island's Cach Mercer Joins Line-Up

On Thursday afternoon, the BBC revealed that Cach would be the second former Love Island star to be taking part in the new series, joining fellow champion Dani Dyer on the line-up.

He said: “I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast.

“Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can’t wait to learn ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!”

Since leaving the vila, he’s enjoyed work as a model and DJ, and become a major presence on social media, with the BBC noting that he has accrued tens of millions of likes on TikTok, thanks to his posts “showcasing his Afrobeat, hip-hop and street dance moves”.

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Stirling politicians’ fury after MP’s Dunblane Tragedy podcast comments

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Daily Record

Stirling MP Chris Kane spoke in Parliament after the comments made by Rupert Lowe about the Tragedy on a recent episode of the podcast.

An array of local politicians have reacted angrily to comments made by the Restore Britain MP Rupert Lowe on a podcast – where he described the Dunblane Tragedy as “one murder”.

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The right-wing politician has faced fury from across the political spectrum after the comments on the Joe Rogan podcast.

Sixteen children and teacher Gwen Mayor lost their lives in the Tragedy at Dunblane High School in March 1996, with locals quietly marking its 30th anniversary earlier this year.

Mr Lowe, a businessman and former owner of Southampton Football Club, appeared on the episode of the popular show and was asked to discuss gun laws in the UK.

On the episode, Lowe tells Rogan: “If you don’t have a farm, you’ll find it very difficult to get a gun of any kind. Even if you have a farm.”

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Lowe, the MP for Great Yarmouth, continued: “They don’t want the public to have guns. As you probably know they banned handguns in the 90s, right in the late 90s, because there was a murder up in Dunblane.”

Rogan responded: “One murder?”. Lowe responded: “One murder”.

He added: “So everybody, my father used to shoot pistols for Oxford University and he had, he’s dead now bless him, but he had all his pistols were taken away.”

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Stirling and Strathallan MP Chris Kane was among those who denounced Lowe’s remarks.

He submitted a point of order in the House of Commons, where he said the comments had caused “profound offence” and “diminished” those who gave their lives in 1996.

The point of order continues: “The people of Dunblane responded not with division, but with dignity, compassion and a determination that no other community should endure such horror.

“It is because of their courage, and the united action of this House, that the United Kingdom has some of the strongest firearms laws in the world and an ongoing cross party approach to ensuring those protections will not be weakened.”

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Mr Kane followed those remarks up on social media, adding: “Like most reasonable people, my initial reaction to Rupert Lowe’s comments was one of fury and disbelief.

“However, unlike Mr Lowe, many of us have thankfully chosen to take the lead of the courageous parents and families forever touched by the Dunblane Tragedy and from the community that I am both proud and humbled to represent.

“They have conducted themselves with dignity, with a desire to unite people rather than to divide them, and in the hope that generations to come will be protected in a way that 16 – yes sixteen, not one – innocent five and six year olds and their teacher Mrs Mayor were not.

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“Families across our country have children and grandchildren in our schools today who are alive because of that kind of selflessness and the determination that something positive would come from unimaginable evil.

“Mere words can never describe the sort of darkness that was visited upon Dunblane Primary School and our nation on March 13, 1996.

“Many people on that terrible day and since have lived with a kind of acute consciousness and pain that should never be visited on any human soul.

“The least the rest of us can do is to ensure that is forever acknowledged and honoured.

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“Mr Lowe’s attitude does not reflect the sort of thoughtful society the vast majority of our nation and its people wish to have and which has been displayed day in and day out in my constituency for over 30 years.

“We can all learn something from the example of the good people and families of Dunblane. We can only hope that one day that includes Mr Lowe.”

Mr Kane’s remarks were echoed by Dunblane’s MSP and SNP deputy leader, Keith Brown, who said: “Rupert Lowe is a stain on our politics and his comments are beyond despicable.

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“Despite these hideous remarks from Rupert Lowe, the Snowdrop Campaign that followed that terrible day ensured a ban on the private ownership of most handguns – that is the proud legacy of the bereaved families and the local community.

“Their courage and determination in the aftermath of the attack is something we should never betray and our community will never let the likes of Rupert Lowe do exactly that.”

Meanwhile, Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Stephen Kerr, whose children went to school close to Dunblane and were in lock-down during the attack, said: “Rupert Lowe’s comments are astonishingly insensitive and profoundly disrespectful to the victims of Dunblane, their families and everyone in Scotland who remembers that horrific day.

“To describe Dunblane as ‘one murder’ is not simply inaccurate – it diminishes one of the darkest days in Scotland’s modern history.

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“Sixteen children and their teacher were murdered, and fifteen other primary school children were wounded.”

A Restore Britain spokesman told the Record: “Rupert was clearly referring to one incident.”

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Wimbledon semi-final halted and announcement made as umpire addresses crowd

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Wales Online

A men’s doubles semi-final at Wimbledon was interrupted by a medical emergency in the crowd

A men’s doubles semi-final at Wimbledon was suspended following a medical emergency in the crowd.

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Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic were facing Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz when proceedings were abruptly halted.

With temperatures hitting 33 degrees on Thursday afternoon, play was paused at 1-1 in the second set as staff rushed to help a spectator who had fallen ill in the stands.

“We’re just going to pause,” umpire James Keothavong announced.

“A fellow spectator requires medical assistance at the top.”

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Both pairs of players remained at the net while waiting for clearance to continue.

Within 10 minutes, the umpire gave the all-clear for play to recommence.

Arevalo and Pavic subsequently secured their spot in the men’s doubles final, defeating Krawietz and Puetz in straight sets.

The first set went to a tiebreak, while the second stood at 2-2 before the sixth seeds claimed four games on the bounce to seal the win, reports the Express.

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They will meet the victors of Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara’s encounter with Aleksandar Kovacevic and Thanasi Kokkinakis, with the second semi-final set for 3pm.

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