Hello and welcome to coverage from Wimbledon for a match which didn’t look likely one month ago.

Serena Williams will shortly be walking onto Centre Court for her first grand slam singles match in nearly four years when she plays Australia’s Maya Joint for a place in the second round.

The All England Club handed the 23-time grand slam winner a wild card into the singles and doubles, where she will play with sister Venus.

The last time Williams played at Wimbledon, she lost in the first round to Harmony Tan in 2022, also as a wild card, and last won a singles match at Wimbledon in 2019 when she was runner-up to Simona Halep.

“In general, my expectations are definitely different for the first time in my career,” she told reporters on Sunday. “I feel like my feelings are just — not that I never enjoyed it before, or else I wouldn’t ‌be here today — ‌but I feel like I’m ⁠really going to enjoy being out there.”

Despite her long absence from the sport, Williams will have cause for belief against 20-year-old Joint, who has had a dismal year on the WTA Tour, losing 15 of the 18 singles matches she has played in 2026.

She only has two doubles matches under her belt since announcing her comeback last month, winning one at Queen’s Club and losing the other in Berlin, but has enjoyed plenty of time on the practice courts in SW19.

“I can’t say I had a lot of emotions, only because I think I was in Queen’s earlier and I was in London and I was on the grass,” she said.

“So for here, it was more like, OK, I’ve been doing this for a couple of weeks. It was kind of like riding a bike. I didn’t feel a ton of stuff yet. Obviously when I play, I might have a lot of things come up.”

He was found unresponsive at his Sandringham Road home in Norwich nine days ago on Sunday, June 21, before later dying at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.

An inquest into his death was opened at Norfolk Coroner’s Court on Monday (June 29).

Coroner Yvonne Blake said further enquiries would be required before the circumstances surrounding his death could be fully established.

The brief hearing was adjourned until Friday, October 23, while evidence continues to be gathered.

Mr Flack, an artist and graphic designer, is survived by his partner and two children.

This story was originally broken by the Eastern Daily Press, where Caroline and Paul’s mum, Christine, worked for many years.

She is remembered as a much-loved and highly regarded colleague by many members of the newsroom.

The life and career of Caroline Flack

Caroline Flack was well-known as a TV presenter, having covered shows such as The Xtra Factor, I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! NOW! and the main version of The X Factor.

She was also a presenter on Love Island between 2015 and 2019.

In February 2020, she was found dead in her flat in London, with it being ruled a suicide by the coroner.

Following Caroline’s death, Mr Flack posted a childhood photograph of his beloved sister on Instagram.

He wrote: “This will be my last post here.

“May those who know feel shame for eternity.

“Love you Caroline.”

The tribute remains his final post on his Instagram account.

After Caroline’s death, the Flack family spoke publicly about the devastating impact of losing her and became determined to challenge what they believed were the circumstances surrounding her final months.

Mr Flack appeared alongside his mother and sister in the 2021 documentary Caroline Flack: Her Life and Death, which explored the presenter’s life, mental health struggles and the events leading up to her death.

In the documentary, the family described Caroline as warm, funny and deeply loved, while also detailing the immense grief they experienced following her death.

If you have been affected by this story, you can contact the Samaritans free of charge, 24 hours a day, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org for confidential support.

Wimbledon is, for many, the highlight of a British sporting summer, with those flocking to SW19 – or following elsewhere – desperate to cheer home players to victory.

But 15 of the 19 Britons have lost already this year – the highest number of first-round exits since 1988 and the highest percentage of defeats since 2013.

Home hopes were, of course, not helped by Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu – the pair with the most pedigree – pulling out because of injury.

“There have been some tough draws, but it certainly doesn’t look good,” British stalwart Dan Evans, who was not given a wildcard at the final tournament of his career, told BBC Sport.

“I think the past few days have shown there’s plenty of work to be done in our sport.”

Inquests into the state of British tennis are not uncommon – especially after the clay-court French Open, which precedes Wimbledon.

The entire British contingent were out of Roland Garros by the end of round two – the third Grand Slam in a row at which none reached the second week.

For Britain to avoid a fourth, it requires Katie Swan, Arthur Fery, Jacob Fearnley or Jan Choinski to keep the flag flying at the All England Club.

The quartet restored some pride on Tuesday after a clean sweep of 10 defeats for home players on Monday.

But despite that disheartening start, four-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Tim Henman believes British tennis remains in a “far better place” than the pre-Andy Murray wilderness of the mid to late 2000s.

“The opening day was difficult – having so many players lose on the same day is disappointing,” said Henman, who is a board member at the All England Club.

“But you can’t judge the system on one tough day. I’d like to think there are better times ahead.”

AS another spell of hot weather arrives, many of us are looking forward to longer evenings and spending time outdoors with barbecues and paddling pools!

But while warmer days can bring enjoyment, there is growing evidence that rising temperatures can also affect our wellbeing in unexpected ways.

Heat can make us more irritable, disrupt our sleep and increase feelings of stress and anxiety.

At the same time, the wider world often feels increasingly unsettled. News reports of conflicts overseas, economic uncertainty and the effects of climate change can leave many people feeling overwhelmed.

For some York residents, these pressures can combine to create a sense that life is becoming harder to navigate.

At Citizens Advice York, we see every day how global events often translate into local challenges.

When international tensions affect energy markets, household bills rise. When supply chains are disrupted, the cost of everyday essentials increases. When uncertainty dominates the headlines, people naturally worry about what the future might hold for themselves and their families.

These concerns are entirely understandable. Yet they can also take a toll on our mental wellbeing, particularly when they are combined with personal financial pressures, caring responsibilities or health concerns.

We know that many people are feeling the strain. Some are anxious about making ends meet over the summer holidays, especially when schools close and free school meals are no longer an option.

Others worry about paying for cooling their homes during heatwaves, while still keeping energy costs under control. We are all becoming aware that UK houses were mostly not built to deal with extreme heat. Older people and people with babies and small children may be concerned about staying safe during periods of extreme heat. Parents may be juggling childcare, rising food costs and work commitments.

Sometimes it isn’t one big problem that brings someone to Citizens Advice York. It’s several smaller worries that gradually build up until they begin to feel unmanageable.

Stress often affects more than our emotions. It can make it harder to think clearly, make decisions or know where to turn for help. People may delay opening letters, avoid answering phone calls or put off dealing with financial or family issues because everything feels too overwhelming.

Keeping cool is one way to cope with the hot weather. Image: Pixabay (Image: CCN)

That is where talking to someone can make a real difference.

Citizens Advice York provides free, confidential and independent advice on a wide range of issues, including debt, benefits, housing, employment, consumer problems and energy costs. While we are not a mental health service, reducing practical worries can often help reduce emotional stress as well.

Many people tell us they feel better simply after having a conversation with one of our advisers. Having someone listen without judgement, explain your options clearly and help you take the next step can restore a sense of control when life feels uncertain.

If you’re worried about paying your bills, we can help you understand your options before problems become crises. If you’re struggling with debt, we can help you create a realistic plan and negotiate with creditors where appropriate. If your income has changed, we can check whether you’re receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to.

We also work closely with other organisations across York and can help people find specialist support where needed, including services that focus on mental health and emotional wellbeing.

It’s important to remember that stress is a normal response to difficult circumstances. None of us are immune to worrying when the news feels relentless or when our own finances become stretched.

There are also small steps we can all take to look after ourselves during periods of hot weather. Staying hydrated, taking breaks from continuous news coverage, checking in with neighbours who may be vulnerable, telling trusted friends and family how you are feeling and making time for rest can all make a positive difference.

Even a short conversation with a friend, family member or trusted organisation can help prevent worries from growing.

York has always been a city with a strong sense of community. Throughout recent years, we’ve seen neighbours supporting neighbours through floods, the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. That same community spirit remains one of our greatest strengths as we face new challenges.

The issues affecting the world may sometimes feel beyond our control. But seeking advice, asking for help and supporting one another are things we can all do.

If rising temperatures, rising costs or rising worries are affecting you, you don’t have to face them alone.

At Citizens Advice York, we’re here to help people find practical solutions, understand their rights and regain confidence during difficult times. Sometimes the first step is simply having a conversation.

This summer, if you or someone you know is feeling the pressure, please remember that help is available. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness, it is often the beginning of finding a way forward.

Citizens Advice York is a small independent charity providing support and advice to Yorkresidents on all of the topics mentioned here!

Whilst City of York Council remain consistent and generous funders, we still have to raise £30,000 to £40,000 each and every year (and sometimes more!) to cover the full cost of this important service. We could not operate without the generosity of donations to fill this gap. We are incredibly grateful of support, especially when everyone is feeling the effects of this current cost of living crisis.

We know that times are hard, but if you are able to help please donate so we can keep on helping others. You can make a one off donation or become a “Friend of Citizens Advice York” and make a monthly subscription. You will receive a quarterly newsletter and an invitation to our AGM and annual fundraising event.

More at: https://www.citizensadviceyork.org.uk/donate/

Or, for details of how to become a Friend of Citizens Advice York, please email admin.team@cayork.org or call 01904 623648.

It is understood the patient was admitted to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in the early hours of Tuesday

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A patient who was tested for the suspected Ebola virus at a Glasgow hospital has tested negative.

It is understood the patient was admitted to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in the early hours of Tuesday.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) said it was aware that an individual in Scotland was tested for Ebola as a precautionary measure.

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The test result has now been received and is negative.

A PHS spokesperson said there are “no confirmed cases of Ebola” in Scotland right now.

It continued: “Public Health Scotland is working closely with UKHSA to assess routes by which travellers may enter the UK from affected countries.

“The risk from people arriving in the UK from affected areas is low and the NHS has safe procedures in place for detecting and managing any such cases.

“PHS and NHS boards across Scotland have well-established protocols for assessing and testing travellers arriving in the UK from areas affected by Ebola where necessary.

“Where required, contact tracing will occur and contacts may undergo clinical assessment and precautionary testing.”

There have been almost 700 confirmed cases of bundibugyo Ebola virus, the majority of which are in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Some 138 people have died, including two in neighbouring Uganda.

If confirmed, it would have been the first case in the UK since the outbreak in the DRC was declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The UK has committed up to £21 million to support the local response to Ebola in DRC, helping to protect frontline workers and vulnerable communities.

Officials have stressed that diseases “are not restricted by borders” and it is “vital” the UK works with international partners to protect global health.

The experts from the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team include seven specialists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

Four are to be based in the eastern DRC to support World Health Organisation (WHO) field operations, while one will join the WHO country office in the capital Kinshasa.

An epidemiologist will also be sent to the Republic of Congo to support the wider response in the region.

Dr Edmund Newman, director of the UK Public Health Rapid Support Team at UKHSA, said: “This deployment will help strengthen the existing response to the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and across the region, with experts in epidemiology, risk communications and community engagement, infection prevention and control and data modelling now on the ground to support.

“We know infectious diseases are not restricted by borders, which is why it’s vital we continue to work collaboratively with the World Health Organisation and other international partners, as well as national and local response organisations, to protect global health security.”

A UK Public Health Rapid Support Team was developed during the West Africa Ebola outbreak in 2014/15.

In The Mixer’s World Cup special

Everything you need to know about the World Cup – England updates, the games to watch and stories you missed – in five minutes, at 1pm, every day.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) said it was aware that an individual in Scotland was tested for Ebola as a “precautionary measure”.

A spokesperson added: “The test result has now been received and is negative.”

PHS said that, together with other NHS health organisations, it had “well established protocols for assessing and testing travellers arriving in the UK from areas affected by Ebola”.

These include contact tracing, clinical assessment and precautionary testing.

PHS confirmed the UKHSA Returning Workers Scheme (RWS), external, which aims to protect and monitor the health of those who may travel from the UK to affected areas for their work, had been activated after it was made aware of the suspected case.

The spokesperson said organisations deploying workers to affected areas where they may be exposed to Ebola through their work should register them with the scheme.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde earlier said there were no ward closures at the QEUH and it confirmed patients and visitors were not being advised to stay away.

Unlike flu or Covid, Ebola is not an airborne virus so is not spread simply by being near an infected person.

According to figures obtained by the RAC through a Freedom of Information request to the Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), 10,054 motorists across the UK were penalised last year for driving with defective vehicles.

Of these cases, 6,670 related to tyre issues.

Jack Halstead, RAC’s Servicing and Repair Mechanic of the Year, said: “Far too many vehicles are unfit for the roads, posing a danger not only to the driver, but to other road users as well.

“Having bald tyres drastically reduces grip, greatly increases stopping distances, and raises the risk of blowouts.”

Defective steering or brakes were behind 3,384 of the incidents, with each offence carrying a penalty of three points on the driver’s licence.

Tyre-related offences can also result in fines of up to £2,500 per tyre.

Mr Halstead said: “But whether it’s tyres, brakes, steering or something else, every mechanical component in a vehicle plays a critical role.

“And this is likely to be just the tip of the iceberg because, with fewer police traffic units, it’s likely more offenders are evading officers and putting themselves and others at risk.”

The report suggests there may be ‘many more unroadworthy vehicles’ on UK roads, noting that around 10 million vehicles fail their MOTs each year.

The RAC highlighted a decline in the number of traffic police, with 1,088 more officers patrolling the roads in 2015 (5,237) than in 2025 (4,149).

Mr Halstead said: “No doubt there will be some who have accidentally let their car maintenance slip, but this can be easily avoided by using free apps like myRAC.

“They will send you reminders to check key components like tyres as well as flagging important dates like your MOT, service, tax and insurance renewal.”

The RAC advises that tyres are considered defective if they fail to meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference.

Tyres must also be free from any forms of damage, such as cuts or bulges, that could ‘compromise their structural integrity’ and must be appropriate for the vehicle in terms of type, size, and speed and load rating.

Mr Halstead also encouraged drivers to take advantage of mobile services: “We know life gets busy so that’s why we’re helping drivers to keep on top of car admin with our team of nationwide mobile mechanics that come to you.

“They can carry out repairs and service your vehicle on your driveway or at work, saving you the slog of getting it to a garage.

“It’s the better way to look after your car.”

Preston Task Force officers responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle driving erratically on the motorway.

The vehicle, a Lexus, was located on Harrington Road in Broadgate, Preston.

Officers searched the driver, passenger, and the vehicle and found approximately £28,000 in cash in a supermarket carrier bag and a quantity of suspected class A drugs.

A 39-year-old man from Bury and a 17-year-old passenger, also from Bury, were arrested on suspicion of money laundering and possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

A second vehicle believed to be connected to the incident was stopped on the motorway.

Three males, aged 17, 27, and 28, all from Bury, were also arrested.

All five have been interviewed and released on bail.

A police spokesperson said: “We weren’t just policing the football on Saturday, as five individuals found out after scoring an own goal.

“Preston Task Force attended reports of a suspicious vehicle driving erratically on the motorway after it had come into Preston. Officers located the vehicle, a Lexus, on Harrington Road in Broadgate.

“The driver, passenger and car were searched under section 23 of the misuse of drugs act.

“Officers found approximately £28,000 of cash in the car in a supermarket carrier bag.

“Also in the vehicle was a quantity of suspected Class A drugs and the driver also tested positive for cocaine.

“The driver, a 39-year-old man from Bury, Greater Manchester and a 17-year-old male, again from Bury was arrested on suspicion of money laundering and possession with Intent to supply class A drugs. The driver was also arrested on suspicion of drug driving.

“A further vehicle suspected to be linked to the incident was stopped on the motorway. The three males aged 17, 27 and 28, again all from Bury in Greater Manchester were arrested.

“All have been interviewed and properties searched before being released on bail whilst our investigation continues.

“Know something we don’t about drug dealing? Let us know PrestonTaskForce@lancashire.police.uk.”

By SOPHIA BAUM

Published: 04:14 BST, 30 June 2026 | Updated: 22:26 BST, 30 June 2026

An 11-year-old has died after contracting rabies from a bat, as health experts warned about how exposure to the rare virus can be missed.

The fatal encounter happened in Northern Ontario, Canada, where the boy had been staying during the summer of 2024.

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The child was peacefully sleeping before he suddenly awoke to find a bat perched directly on his face, covering his nose and mouth, according to the case report.

Without thinking, he swatted the animal away. His father captured it and released it back outside.

At the time, the family claimed they had no reason to believe there had been a bite, a scratch or any cause for concern.

The boy appeared completely normal, uninjured with no blood, no puncture marks and no visible trauma – so they did not seek urgent medical care. 

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Roughly 19 days later, the child began to feel unwell, developing symptoms such as persistent vomiting. 

What started as vague discomfort rapidly escalated into serious neurological illness, including bouts of tingling and numbness on one side of his face. 

An 11-year-old boy has died after he was exposed through skin-to-skin contact to a bat carrying rabies in Canada (stock)

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Due to the family’s insistence on no bite history, doctors initially explored more common causes but as his condition rapidly deteriorated, rabies was eventually diagnosed.

The delay in diagnosis meant the disease had already taken hold of his nervous system.

He was admitted to hospital and placed under intensive care but as with all symptomatic rabies cases, treatment could not halt the progression of the virus.

Despite more than two weeks of aggressive supportive care, his condition continued to worsen and life support was ultimately withdrawn.

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The child died, surrounded by his family. It marked Ontario’s first locally acquired human rabies infection since 1967.

The boy’s relatives agreed to publicize the case in the hope that it prevents another tragedy. 

Experts involved in the case say the most alarming aspect is how easily exposure to the virus can be missed.

Bats can carry rabies and their bites are often so microscopic that they leave no visible trace.

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The fatal incident happened in Northern Ontario. At the time, the child’s family suspected nothing ominous and continued with everyday life (stock)

‘It was important to us and to the family to take the opportunity to find learning experiences and lessons that we could take from his case to try and help spread awareness and understanding of rabies infection and risks,’ said Dr Brian Hummel, a pediatric infectious disease specialist involved in the case. 

He stressed that the absence of a wound doesn’t mean there was no exposure and warned that even brief skin contact, particularly on the face, should trigger immediate medical assessment for post exposure rabies treatment.

The case, published in the Canadian Medical Association’s Journal, is only one of a handful of instances of human rabies ever recorded in Canada.

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Bats are the leading cause of human rabies deaths in the United States despite under 1 percent of the wild species actually carrying the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control.