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E-bike and e-scooter fires reach record high amid online marketplace warnings

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Daily Mirror

E-bike and e-scooter fires reached a record high last year, an investigation has found, with concerns being raised over batteries sold through online marketplaces

FIRES caused by e-bikes and e-scooters hit a record high last year, an investigation has revealed, prompting warnings to riders about purchasing from online marketplaces.

Fire brigade statistics obtained by the Press Association reveal that 432 e-bike blazes were recorded across the UK in 2025. That represents a 38% rise from 313 the previous year, and is more than five times higher than the 84 incidents recorded in 2021.

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There were 147 e-scooter fires last year, marking a 20% increase from 123 in 2024. In 2021, that figure stood at 88. E-bike and e-scooter fires are frequently triggered by the failure of batteries, conversion kits or chargers.

Products purchased from online marketplaces have been found to carry a greater risk of malfunctioning than those sold by established retailers, as they are not subject to the same level of regulation.

Nick Bailey of BatteryIQ, which provides a system to monitor the safety of e-bike batteries, said the e-bikes and e-scooters involved in fires are “always cut-price products sold through online marketplaces with lax quality control”.

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He went on to say: “There’s also a growing black market in DIY and counterfeit batteries, particularly for delivery riders, built using battery cells reclaimed from used disposable vapes.

“I wouldn’t keep a battery in my home without continuous monitoring – regardless of what the manufacturer’s sticker says.” The Press Association submitted Freedom of Information requests to all 49 fire services across the UK, requesting figures for e-bike and e-scooter fires recorded annually between 2021 and 2025.

Thirty-seven services supplied comparable data. London Fire Brigade (LFB) logged far more e-bike and e-scooter fires last year than anywhere else, with 171 and 35 respectively.

Nottinghamshire recorded the highest number of e-bike fires (30) beyond the capital, with Greater Manchester following (13). Avon Fire and Rescue Service reported the next highest figure (10).

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Greater Manchester experienced the most e-scooter fires (13) outside London, ahead of Avon Fire and Rescue Service (10). Fires involving lithium batteries used in e-bikes and e-scooters can spread quickly and generate toxic vapour.

Eden Abera Siem, 30, died in hospital after firefighters rescued her when a blaze, which investigators determined was likely caused by a failing charging e-bike battery, erupted at her home on Lordship Lane, Wood Green, north London on 21 June last year. It marked the fourth fatal e-bike fire in the capital.

Lesley Rudd, chief executive of charity Electrical Safety First, said the problem of fires caused by substandard e-bike and e-scooter batteries is “swiftly becoming a runaway train that needs to be stopped”.

She continued: “Poorly made batteries and accessories, often sold via under-regulated online marketplaces, are of huge concern, and are a major route through which dangerous devices are entering people’s homes. Without strong and enforceable changes, lives are at serious risk and further loss of life is, sadly, inevitable.”

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Last week the Government unveiled three consultations outlining proposals to strengthen product safety across the UK, which include online marketplaces being legally obliged to “prevent, identify and remove dangerous products being sold via their platforms”.

Spencer Sutcliff, deputy commissioner of LFB, stated that the brigade is “extremely concerned around the issue of e-bike and e-scooter fires, and the devastating impact these fires can have on lives and livelihoods”.

He further noted that its firefighters “continue to be called out to a worrying amount” of such incidents. Privately-owned e-scooters have been prohibited from Transport for London’s (TfL’s) network since December 2021 owing to their fire risk.

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This ban was extended to non-foldable e-bikes across the majority of TfL services in March last year, following an e-bike catching fire on a platform at Rayners Lane Tube station.

Private e-scooters are forbidden from use in public spaces throughout the UK, though they are frequently ridden illegally across many urban areas.

Legal trials of rental e-scooters on roads have been under way in towns and cities across England since July 2020. Under UK legislation, e-bike motors are required to cut out upon reaching 15.5mph. However, police are increasingly discovering that many have been tampered with to achieve significantly higher speeds.

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Sue Davies, Which? head of consumer rights policy, said: “Online marketplaces are increasingly saturated with unsafe products. E-bikes and e-scooters are just some examples of items that can pose serious risks to consumers, while also undercutting responsible businesses that comply with the law.

“The Government has launched a much-needed consultation on updating the product safety framework, including duties for online marketplaces to prevent unsafe products from being sold by third-party sellers.

“These duties must be strong and enforceable, with clear measures in place to protect consumers and reduce the risk of fires and other harm.”

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Aaron Ramsey quits football with immediate effect

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Wales Online

The 35-year-old has called time on his illustrious career, having not played since September

Wales legend Aaron Ramsey has announced his retirement from football.

The midfielder brings down the curtain on an illustrious career that saw him play a starring role in Wales’ run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, being named in UEFA’s team of the tournament. He also scored the winning goal in two FA Cup finals with Arsenal, having spent more than a decade at the Gunners.

The 35-year-old has been without a club since leaving Mexican outfit Pumas in December, having not played for the club since September.

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A lack of first-team football and injuries meant the midfielder had not represented his country since September 2024.

The former Juventus midfielder had previously said he wanted to play for Wales at this summer’s World Cup should they qualify – although the recent defeat to Bosnia ended those hopes.

As such, Ramsey – who began his career with Cardiff City – has called time on his career.

“This has not been an easy decision to make,” said Ramsey in a statement. “After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football.

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“Firstly, I want to start with Wales. It has been my privilege to wear the Welsh shirt and experience so many incredible moments in it. It would not have been possible without the incredible input of all the managers I have played under and all the staff who have helped me in many ways.

“To the Red Wall. You have been there through thick and thin! You have been there through the highs and lows, and you have been an essential and indispensable part of our success. I can’t thank you enough. We’ve been through everything together and it’s been an honour to represent you. Diolch.

“Secondly, thank you to all the clubs I’ve been lucky enough to play for. Thank you to all the managers and staff that have helped me be able to live my dream and play at the highest level.

“And a huge thank you to my wife and children and all my family. Without you by my side throughout, none of this would have been possible.”

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Ramsey came through the ranks with Cardiff, becoming their youngest-ever player when he made his debut in 2007 at the age of 16.

Having played a part in their run to the FA Cup final in 2008, he joined Arsenal, spending the best part of his career there.

Spells with Juventus, Rangers and Nice followed – before another stint at Cardiff ahead of his final move to Mexico.

His career with Wales was glittering.

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Having made his Wales debut in 2008, he won 86 caps for his country – playing in two European Championships and a World Cup.

He also represented Great Britain in the 2012 Olympics.

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Voters in Wales face Senedd election amid confusion over who holds power over what

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Voters in Wales face Senedd election amid confusion over who holds power over what

Ahead of May’s Senedd (Welsh parliament) election, many people in Wales remain unclear about who is responsible for important political decisions.

Our new report suggests confusion is widespread. Our analysis included a survey of people in Wales and found that 69% did not know that policing is controlled by the UK government.

At the same time, a significant minority did not realise that health, education and transport have been devolved to Wales, despite more than 25 years of devolution. The report also found that more people rely on UK-wide news for political information than news produced in Wales.

Working with YouGov between January and February 2026, we surveyed 1,544 people across Wales. We also carried out focus groups and analysed more than 3,000 social media posts, online articles and TV news reports from major UK broadcasters.

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Taken together, the findings suggest that UK‑wide news media are not doing enough to raise public knowledge and understanding of devolved politics ahead of the election.

Reporting lacks constitutional clarity

Our analysis of network news – including the BBC, ITV, Sky News, Channel 4 and Channel 5 – found that devolved politics makes up only a small part of UK-wide coverage. Stories rarely compare how policies differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. And when devolved issues are covered, they often lack basic clarity about which government is responsible.

This problem is especially clear on social media. On X (formerly Twitter), 73% of posts about devolved issues did not say whether a story applied only to England, or to England and Wales in the case of legal matters. Just 13.2% mentioned England explicitly. Only 13.8% named Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland to make clear that responsibility lay with devolved governments.

But there was also a lack of clarity in TV news, with 57.4% not stating if they were relevant to one or more of the four nations. Online news performed slightly better, but still fell short because 35.3% gave no indication of which part of the UK they referred to.

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While some articles did refer to England (33.6%), our audience research suggests this is not enough. Many readers still struggled to understand how political decisions apply to Wales.

This lack of clarity has real consequences. Our survey found that many people misinterpret news stories that do not clearly explain where policies apply. When shown a BBC report about junior doctors’ strikes in December 2025, 48% believed the strikes were taking place across the UK. In reality, they applied to England only. A further 11% said they did not know either way.

A deeper lack of knowledge was revealed when stories failed to mention any government at all. When shown posts on X about housing and fracking, a majority of respondents assumed these were controlled solely by Westminster. In fact, responsibility is shared between the UK and Welsh governments.

More broadly, vague references to “the government” or to health and education secretaries often left people unsure which nation was being discussed.

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There are wider gaps in political knowledge too. For example, only 47% could identify Rhun ap Iorwerth as the leader of Plaid Cymru, the most likely next first minister of Wales. Meanwhile, 58% did not know how the Senedd’s new voting system works.

Given the limited visibility of Welsh politics in UK-wide news, and the lack of clear explanations when it is covered, this confusion is perhaps not surprising. But it raises concerns about how voters will interpret political debates in the weeks ahead.

Why UK-wide news matters

For many people in Wales, UK-wide news remains the main source of political information. That makes how it reports devolved issues especially important. In our focus groups, participants consistently said they wanted simple, clear references to where a story applies. Explicit references to Wales would increase their interest and engagement.

Many participants said they lacked confidence in understanding the differences between political parties. They wanted clearer explanations of which issues are controlled in Wales, and what each party is proposing to do about them.

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They also expressed frustration with the way politics is often reported. Too much attention, they felt, is given to personalities and campaign moments, and not enough to policy. Issues such as healthcare, in particular, were seen as deserving greater scrutiny.

The coming weeks will be a test not just for political parties, but for network news media. Our report highlights the need for clearer, more consistent reporting of how power is shared across the UK. Without it, voters may struggle to hold the right institutions to account.




À lire aussi :
Wales is overhauling its democracy – here’s what’s changing


If coverage of the election is to inform rather than confuse, it must do more than report the campaign. It must also explain it. That means clearly stating which government is responsible for which policies, and showing how decisions in Wales differ from those made in Westminster or elsewhere in the UK.

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After more than a quarter century of devolution, the structures of governance are well established. But public understanding has not kept pace. As voters prepare to go to the polls, closing that gap has never been more important.

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Fire Stick users issued warning after Amazon blocks free app

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Fire Stick users issued warning after Amazon blocks free app

Downloader is an app that helps users download files onto devices, including Fire TV, Google TV, and Android phones and tablets.

The popular free app, which was created by Elias Saba (AFTVnews), has been downloaded more than 658,000 times on the Amazon Appstore.

It has even been described as “one of the most popular and long-standing apps on the Amazon Appstore” by the tech experts at Cordbusters .

Amazon removes Downloader from Appstore

Despite its popularity, Amazon removed the Downloader app from its Appstore late last month.

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However, the move was only temporary, with the popular app reinstated just days later.

The app’s creator, Elias Saba, via her site AFTVnews , said: “The app was temporarily suspended a couple of days ago for violating Amazon’s policy that doesn’t allow third party browsers.

“Evidently, Amazon is fine with apps that have a built-in browser, but they just cannot declare themselves as browsers to the operating system.”

A new v2.0.2 update of Downloader, which is “identical to the previous suspended version”, is now available to download, with Saba having made a “tiny change” to solve the previous issue, which saw it removed from the Amazon Appstore.

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Saba added: “If you sideloaded Downloader from another source while it was unavailable, I strongly recommend you uninstall it and install the version from the Amazon Appstore, because the sideloaded version will never receive updates.”

Fire TV Stick users issued new scam warning

It appears scammers have taken advantage of the temporary removal of Downloader, creating fake versions of the popular app.

One app named ‘Downloader for Fire, Browser…’ tricks users into paying US$6.99 (around £5.29) per week, according to Saba.

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The Downloader creator warned users to “NOT install the app” and instead “help get it removed” by reporting it as a scam to Amazon.



Thousands warned about use of ‘dodgy’ Fire Sticks as enforcement intensifies

Meanwhile, the ongoing crackdown on the use of ‘dodgy’ Fire Sticks in the UK continues to intensify.

Illegal TV Fire Sticks and/or ‘dodgy boxes’ are streaming devices that have third-party software installed in them, allowing users to watch premium content from providers such as TNT Sport, Sky, Disney+ and Netflix for free.

The use of these devices is a “serious crime”, and police forces across the UK and Ireland, as well as organisations including Crimestoppers and the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT), have been attempting to stamp them out.

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People who access illegal TV streaming services are potentially liable to prosecution for criminal offences, including under Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.



FACT is continually intensifying enforcement targeting users of illegal streaming devices/services.

Thousands of individuals across the UK were contacted recently and warned to stop using illegal IPTV services immediately or risk criminal prosecution.

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This action followed joint investigations with police that uncovered details of customers who had purchased access to so-called “loaded” Fire Sticks, Android, or Kodi devices.

While FACT’s latest campaign to disrupt illegal streaming networks and protect consumers from the risks associated with illicit online content targeted eight areas across the UK :

  • London
  • South West
  • North West
  • North East
  • Scotland
  • Wales
  • Yorkshire and Humber
  • West Midlands

The likes of Sky and Amazon are also working on ways to prevent the use of ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Sticks in the UK.

The dangers of using illegal streaming devices

“Illegal streaming services are increasingly operated by sophisticated criminal networks, often involved in other types of crime,” BeSteamWise explained.

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People who access illegal TV streaming services are potentially liable to prosecution for criminal offences. (Image: Getty Images)

Meaning those who use illegal streaming devices run the risk of “letting criminals in”, resulting in:

  • Viruses and malware
  • ID theft, scams, and fraud
  • Inappropriate content

Around 39% of illegal streamers in the UK have suffered financial losses due to cybercrime linked to piracy, according to BeStreamWise.

The average amount stolen through illegal streaming is £1,680, while one in ten have lost more than £5,000.


RECOMMENDED READING:


What is the penalty if caught with a ‘dodgy’ Fire TV Stick?

Not only can the use of illegal streaming devices leave users open to ID theft, fraud, and viruses, but it can also result in fines and jail time.

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Those caught using or selling a ‘dodgy’ fire stick/box and streaming premium content without paying are in breach of Section 11 of the Fraud Act 2006.

It says a person will be in breach if they obtain services “without any payment having been made for or in respect of them or without payment having been made in full”.

A person found guilty of this kind of offence could be fined or face a jail sentence of up to five years.

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Home Bargains planter adds ‘delightful rustic touch’ to gardens

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Manchester Evening News

It’s ideal for showcasing your plants this summer

The sun is finally here which means many of us are looking at ways to spruce up our outdoor spaces.

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One place that’s packed with gardening gear at this time of year is Home Bargains and there are loads of products to add a special touch to your garden or patio.

And an item that’s proving particularly popular is the Jardin Wooden Wheelbarrow Planter, priced £12.99.

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Offering a statement look, it’s described as being ‘a breeze to assemble’ and ‘adds a delightful rustic touch to any outdoor space’.

“A cute and stylish way to show off your plants,” says Home Bargains. “It’s super easy to put together with fixtures included for simple self-assembly. Measuring W69 x H28 x D32cm, it’s the perfect size to add a rustic charm to your garden, patio, or balcony. A great way to bring a little extra character to your outdoor space.”

The product is available in stores and to order online.

And there are lots more planters available too, including this cute Jardin Frog In Wellington Boot Planter to ‘add a playful touch’.

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Priced £7.99 and around 24cm in height, it’s described as ‘a quirky and charming decoration that brightens up any outdoor space’.

There’s also a Jardin Hedgehog Backpack Planter, priced £14.99, featuring ‘ adorable hedgehogs peeking out for a fun and friendly vibe’.

If you’re wanting something more traditional to transform your outdoor space, you can get a large Hand Crafted Round Wooden Planter for £9.99.

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Made from natural wood, this ‘rustic beauty features a drainage hole and handy metal handles, perfect for showcasing your favourite flowers in style’.

Some larger Home Bargains stores have their own gardening centres attached.

At the end of February we took a look round the new Leigh store which has its own cafe and garden centre selling everything from plants and hanging baskets to garden lighting, furniture and soil.

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When does the Masters start and who will win? Date, odds and how to watch first 2026 major

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When does the Masters start and who will win? Date, odds and how to watch first 2026 major

The Masters 2026 is almost upon us as the world’s best golfers face off at the Augusta National for one of the sport’s biggest prizes.

Rory McIlroy arrives in Georgia as the reigning champion, having last year ended 14 years of strife by beating Justin Rose in a play-off to complete a grand slam.

There will be 91 other players vying to stop McIlroy from becoming the first golfer since Tiger Woods in 2002 to claim back-to-back titles.

World no1 Scottie Scheffler is the favourite to take McIlroy’s crown, while 2023 champion John Rahm and fellow LIV Golf star Bryson DeChambeau will fancy their chances.

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One to keep an eye on is Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrives at Augusta having finished second at The Players before winning the Valpsar Championship.

Augusta National

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When is the Masters 2026?

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The Masters, held every year at the famous Augusta National in Georgia, begins on Thursday, April 9, 2026, and runs until Sunday, April 12.

Practice days are held across Monday to Wednesday, including the traditional Par 3 contest on the eve of the tournament.

Tee times for days one and two are yet to be confirmed, but the first group is expected to begin at around 12.30pm BST on the first two days.

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Glentoran cannot afford any more slip ups insists Jordan Stewart ahead of Cliftonville clash

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Belfast Live

The Glens lost ground in the title race following their draw at home to Linfield last time out with Larne now six points clear with four games to go

Jordan Stewart says Glentoran have to keep their focus and see where it takes them as they prepare to face Cliftonville in the Sports Direct Premiership on Tuesday evening (Kick-off 7.45pm).

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The Glens lost ground in the title race following their draw at home to Linfield last time out with Larne now six points clear with four games to go.

Third-placed Coleraine also closed the gap on Declan Devine’s side with the deficit now two points and with so much at stake in the final month of the league campaign Stewart insists the BetMcLean Oval outfit must keep pushing until the end.

“Obviously you don’t want to be dropping points at any time let alone the last few games of the season, but it’s going to happen and I’m sure other teams around us will drop points too as we’re all playing each other,” said Stewart.

“What we have done well all season though is if we have dropped points we have bounced back in the next game and that has to be our objective now.

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“Yes, Larne have extended their lead at the top but there’s still six points to play for and we have to play each other as well.

“All we can do is focus on ourselves and the next game, which is Cliftonville. There’s no point looking too far down the line because that’s when you trip yourself up.

“We have to make sure we do everything in our power to go out and get as many points as we can. That’s the only thing we are in control of.

“What happens after that is out of our control, but if we continue to give ourselves a chance then there’s not much else, we can do.

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“We are almost at the end of the season. We’ve possibly only four games left and our aim is to finish the campaign as strongly as possible.

“Why things are still mathematically possible we will be giving all we can to keep the pressure on Larne.

“At the very least there’s a guaranteed place in the Conference League up for grabs and anything after that will be a bonus.”

The Glens have had the upper hand over the Reds so far this season winning three and drawing one of their four meetings to date.

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In their last two meetings they have scored seven without reply with Pat Hoban bagging four and Stewart helping himself to a brace.

The wide man, who also scored a crucial equaliser in the recent draw with Coleraine, isn’t too worried who gets on the score sheet as long as Glentoran come away with the points.

“We’ve had a decent record against Cliftonville so far this season, and it’s nice to be going into the final league meeting with them still unbeaten,” said the 31-year-old.

“That’s a record we will be determined to keep going come the final whistle on Tuesday night.

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“The last two games in particular have worked out very well for us, but again it comes down to the performance levels on the night.

“You don’t get results like that if you don’t produce out on the pitch and thankfully, we have done that.

“That night at Solitude we could have won by an even bigger margin but for an excellent performance by their ’keeper.

“It’s probably up there as one of our best performances all season if I’m being honest. Not many teams go to Solitude and win 4-0 that’s for sure.

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“I was pleased to score a couple that night especially as I only came on 10 minutes into the second half!

“Pat grabbed a couple that night too and followed it up with another brace in our most recent meeting with them at The BetMcLean Oval last month.

“I’m sure Cliftonville will be glad to see the back of him this season, but to be fair he’s been such an asset for us since joining in the summer.

“He’s such a threat in the penalty area and if you give him half a chance, he usually buries it.

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“To be honest though I really don’t mind who gets a goal on Tuesday night as long as someone does. The only thing that matters for us now is coming out on the right side of the result.”

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Patio algae stains will vanish in 5 minutes when cleaned with ‘natural’ solution

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Daily Mirror

Paving experts have shared their tried-and-tested natural cleaning formula to clean patios

Algae is a widespread problem on patios, caused by microscopic plant-like organisms that flourish in wet, shaded and poorly aired conditions. It typically manifests as a green, slippery coating on paving slabs, stone, or concrete, particularly after the winter months. While largely harmless, it can leave patios looking grimy, neglected and discoloured.

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Keeping algae at bay requires regular maintenance, and spring represents the ideal opportunity to tackle it head-on. There are numerous removal methods available, including white vinegar and citrus-based solutions.

Paving specialists at the Reclaimed Brick Company have revealed a formula they’ve relied upon throughout their careers.

Despite taking a week to prepare, they describe it as the “best natural method” available.

Creating citrus vinegar couldn’t be simpler – collect citrus peel in a jar, submerge it in white vinegar, and leave it to steep for seven days.

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Once ready, strain the mixture and dilute with additional white vinegar before application.

The experts said: “The natural citrus oils help fight algae film and leave a fresh smell. The mild acidity loosens grime without harsh chemicals.”

The pros added: “Sweep the patio first to remove loose leaves, soil and grit.

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Then, pre-wet the patio with warm water. This will help the diluted spray to spread evenly.”

Test on a small area first, then apply using a spray bottle or watering can, reports the Express.

Work in sections, scrubbing with a stiff outdoor brush using short, firm strokes.

Allow five to 10 minutes for the solution to penetrate the algae before rinsing thoroughly with clean water, directing the dirty runoff away from flower beds and drains.

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The specialists cautioned: “Do not mix vinegar with bleach, ammonia, or any other cleaners. Never use strong acids on limestone or very soft limestone; always test first and keep the mix mild.

“Regular cleaning prevents algae, moss and grime from building up, which can make the area slippery and shorten the life of the paving.”

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Calo meal delivery review 2026: Plus exclusive discount code

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Calo meal delivery review 2026: Plus exclusive discount code

I thoroughly enjoyed my month of Calo meals, taking plenty of positives from the experience. The best thing it gave me was more minutes in my day. Over the course of the month, the app estimated that it had saved me 75 hours of cooking time, and while this seemed a tad high, I definitely noticed the difference.

Each week I received deliveries on Mondays and Fridays containing four and three days’ worth of food respectively. Each day consisted of a breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack and juice.

The breakfasts – usually protein-rich yoghurts with nuts and seeds or omelettes with greens – were a high point. Being a fitness writer, I know fuelling my workouts appropriately is critical for optimal results, but as someone who exercises before work there are some days I simply run out of time to make breakfast. Calo bypassed this problem, delivering a generous dose of protein and fibre before 9am.

Whether I was eating at my desk, out on a dog walk or on the gym floor after coaching, I didn’t miss a single breakfast all month, and enjoyed improved results during my regular strength training sessions as a result.

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The lunches and dinners impressed me too; they were tasty, varied and took just two minutes to heat up. I tend to eat fairly intuitively, but the nutritional breakdown (calories, carbohydrates, fat and protein) on the front of the packet was handy to have, allowing me to make more informed choices in my wider diet.

Each meal comes with a digestible nutritional breakdown on the front of the packet (Harry Bullmore/The Independent)

However, the best part was having a hot, nutritious meal ready to eat in 120 seconds. At the end of a busy work and workout day, this felt like absolute bliss. Not only did it make my lunchtimes and evenings considerably more relaxing, but I also noticed a lift in my productivity levels. Without having to plan meals and snacks, I was able to get more done at work, and the extra hour or so each evening allowed me to get on top of life admin – my wash basket has rarely looked so empty.

Office days were a dream too. Who needs a soggy, unsatisfying sandwich when you have a yoghurt bowl, tofu cubes snack and a spicy salmon and quinoa lunch packed in advance? Between the time it took for me to put these in my bag, and the two minutes they needed in the microwave, these meals took me a few minutes to prep at most.

A few highlights included a tamarind sea bass noodle dish, bang bang shrimp and a greens and tofu bowl, but there wasn’t a single recipe in the line-up of meals I was sent that I didn’t find enjoyable.

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There was also a surprising amount of variety, considering my often option-limiting pescatarian status. The ability to sub choices out up to 24 hours in advance on the app was handy, and every week there were enough fresh options to keep me excited for each new delivery.

My experience with Calo was largely positive, but there were a few personal teething issues here and there.

When I signed up for the Calo app, I almost ordered three rounds of snacks, juices, breakfasts, lunches and dinners for each day. This might be down to my technological shortcomings, but I found the app and the language it uses took a bit of acclimatising to – each “bag” was a day’s worth of food, rather than representing one of my twice-weekly deliveries.

While getting started, I was also asked for a series of details including my age and goals so the app could calculate a target daily calorie, protein, carb and fat targets for me – 3,693, 198g, 363g and 161g respectively.

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A Calo meal in the microwave
The meals could be heated up in the microwave in just two minutes (Harry Bullmore)

The daily meals tended to take me two thirds of the way there – more on the protein front – but I had to fill in the gaps. I didn’t mind this as I actually came to miss my time in the kitchen on more relaxed days, but it’s worth noting that those with larger appetites or muscle gain goals might need to supplement their deliveries with other food throughout the day.

I also found the cold-pressed juices and smoothies were surplus to requirements. Some people may love them and the bottles say a lot of the right things – one of your five a day, no added sugar – but I found I would rather grab a piece of fruit than neck a juice. This is personal preference, however. You do you.

The only other negative I encountered was the lack of variety in the automatic meal selections. The Calo app allows you to switch selections out for alternative options with a few thumb taps, provided you do it at least 24 hours ahead of your delivery. However, I have to hold my hands up here and admit there were a couple of occasions where I forgot to do this.

Because I chose pescatarian, high-protein options, my choices were whittled down, and I wound up receiving three or four of the same meal. They were still delicious, although by the fourth round I wouldn’t have minded a departure from harissa salmon and quinoa.

This is easily solved by remembering to tinker with your choices in advance, and opening up your preferences beyond the high protein options – these contain roughly 60g of protein per serving, while other meals still usually offer a decent 20g-40g hit.

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Craig Charles on why he left ITV’s Coronation Street

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Coronation Street legend wants to return after 30 years away

The TV star and radio presenter is among the celebrities who have returned for the new series of I’m a Celebrity… South Africa, which began yesterday (March 6).

He was on the 14th series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! in 2014, but left the series early after learning that his brother Dean had died after suffering a heart attack.

Now, he has spoken about the tragedy and revealed it led to him leaving the Cobbles in 2015.

Coronation Street star Craig Charles on why he left the ITV soap

Craig Charles played taxi driver Lloyd Mullaney on Coronation Street from 2005 to 2015.

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His character, which was popular with viewers, was notably involved in the show’s dramatic 50th-anniversary tram crash storyline, which was broadcast live.

It was in May 2015 that Craig announced he would be leaving Coronation Street for Red Dwarf, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 6 Music.

Now, he has spoken about the time as he rejoins the I’m a Celeb cast for another go at the ITV show.

Craig said: “The death of my brother, and my unexpected departure as a result, did change my life.

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“It made me re-evaluate things and made me ask: ‘If that had happened to me, would I be happy with what I had achieved?’

“I came up with the answer and it was ‘no’.

“I was 50 at the time, my brother was 52, I had been in Corrie for ten years and I felt in a rut.

“I was really enjoying my time in the Australian jungle and it got sadly cut short.

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Craig Charles during a photocall for the launch of season two of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here South AfricaCraig Charles has revealed he left Corrie in 2015 after the sad death of his brother (Image: Ian West/PA Wire)

“I knew I wanted to have some new adventures after that.”

He also opened up on his readiness to return to the program and give it another go.

Craig said: “Since I left, there have been years of ‘what ifs?’

“At first, I’m A Celebrity felt bittersweet after I’d left, and in the first few years I couldn’t watch the show.

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“It made me sad and it opened a world of loss.

“Every year it came around, I would feel a sense of loss and a feeling of what might have been – both for my brother and for me.

“He was only 52 and he would have been 63 now, which is no age.

“But that feeling has decreased over the years, and the last few years I have been able to watch it again without feeling the pain and the grief.

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“And so, when this came round, it was at the right time. I feel strong and confident enough to face it again and have a laugh!”

Who is on I’m a Celeb South Africa 2026?

Craig is one of many famous faces that have returned to I’m a Celebrity for its all-stars series in South Africa.

The show returned for its second series on Monday (March 6), with former campmates taking on even more challenges and tougher Bushtucker trials.

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A new element for the new series, which has been pre-recorded and hosted by Ant and Dec, will give the viewing public the power to decide who is crowned the “ultimate legend 2026”.

Here is the full lineup for the series:

  • Harry Redknapp (former football manager – 2018 winner)
  • Gemma Collins (reality TV star – 2014 series)
  • Beverley Callard (Coronation Street star – 2020 series)
  • Sir Mo Farah (Olympian – 2020 series)
  • Scarlett Moffatt (former Gogglebox star – 2016 winner)
  • David Haye (boxer – 2012 third place)
  • Adam Thomas (actor and TV star – 2016 third place)
  • Ashley Roberts (Pussycat Dolls singer – 2012 runner-up)
  • Seann Walsh (comedian – 2022 series)
  • Sinitta (pop star – 2011 series)
  • Craig Charles (Red Dwarf star – 2014 series)
  • Jimmy Bullard (footballer – 2014 series)

The first South Africa series aired in 2023 and was won by former Australian series runner-up Myleene Klass.

How long is I’m a Celebrity South Africa on for?

I’m A Celebrity South Africa will be on for a few weeks before finishing on Friday, April 24.

It will be broadcast on weeknights, with it taking a break on weekends, with most episodes on at 9pm.

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In a change from the first series, the final of I’m a Celeb South Africa will be aired live, with the entire celebrity cast gathering in a UK studio.

Are you watching I’m A Celeb South Africa? Let us know in the comments.

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James Rodriguez: Minnesota United deny midfielder has rare muscle wasting condition

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James Rodriguez

Minnesota United have denied rumours that midfielder James Rodriguez is suffering from a potentially life-threatening muscle-wasting condition.

The Colombia international returned to the club’s training ground on Monday after being hospitalised.

Rodriguez, 34, showed signs of illness during Colombia’s 3-1 defeat by France on 29 March and subsequently spent three days in hospital with severe dehydration.

A statement from the Colombia Football Federation on 2 April confirmed Rodriguez was under observation for a “non-sports-related medical condition” but said his prognosis was “favourable”.

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Social media rumours and reports in some US media sparked concerns he was suffering from rhabdomyolysis – a rare condition sometimes linked to over-exertion which causes muscles to disintegrate and can lead to potentially fatal kidney damage when toxic muscle fibres enter the circulatory system.

However, Major League Soccer (MLS) side Minnesota United said:, external “The club and our medical professionals can unequivocally state there has been no clinical or laboratory evidence of rhabdomyolysis.”

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