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NewsBeat

English referee will miss out on staggering bonus due to World Cup final ban

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Daily Mirror

There is a huge financial bonus on offer for the referee who oversees the World Cup final

Michael Oliver will miss out on a staggering financial bonus after being banned from officiating the World Cup final. Oliver, one of two English referees at this summer’s tournament, had been one of the favourites to take charge of the final at MetLife Stadium this Sunday, given his vast experience and solid displays.

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But neither Oliver nor his fellow Premier League referee Anthony Taylor will be permitted to oversee the most prestigious fixture in world football. The pair have essentially been blocked from receiving the full pay package available for a FIFA referee at the tournament due to a combination of England reaching the semi-finals and geopolitical factors.

England’s 2-1 win over Norway booked the Three Lions’ place in the last four. But according to FIFA’s rules, a referee cannot officiate their home nation’s match, ruling Oliver out of the semi-final against Argentina and the final, should England progress.

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Referees cannot be assigned to a game that has a direct consequence for their home country in the next round, either, meaning they can’t oversee the other semi-final between France and Spain. And to top it off, English referees are not allowed to officiate Argentina’s games, meaning Oliver is ruled out of the final if either England or Argentina is involved.

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With both Oliver and Taylor being English, it is deemed inappropriate for either to referee Argentina or a game that has a direct next-game consequence for Argentina at the World Cup, due to the 1982 Falklands War.

The war remains a sensitive topic, having been referenced by Argentina’s players when they sang a song called ‘Muchachos’ in the dressing room.

Unfortunately for Oliver, through no fault of his own, he will therefore miss out on the maximum salary available for a referee at the World Cup. The Times had reported that referees at this summer’s tournament could earn up to $100,000 (£85,000) and would even be paid sizable bonuses for officiating matches in the latter stages of the competition.

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51 referees were left on FIFA’s official list going into the tournament after Somalia’s Omar Artan was refused entry into the United States. Reports claimed a standard basic rate was handed to officials for up to six weeks’ work since they arrived at the tournament base in Miami in June.

The baseline figure is said to be around double what officials received over a decade ago at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Officials then receive an extra sum per game for the knockout rounds.

Oliver has officiated four fixtures across the tournament: Netherlands vs Sweden, Norway vs France, Canada vs Morocco and the quarter-final clash, Spain vs Belgium. During the latter, Oliver suffered an embarrassing moment as he accidentally impeded Dani Olmo during a Spain attack, after which he apologised and stopped the game.

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Flora Vesterberg gives birth! King’s cousin and granddaughter of Princess Alexandra, 31, welcomes her first child with Swedish husband Timothy

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Flora Vesterberg – granddaughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II's cousin, Princess Alexandra – has welcomed her first child, a daughter named Isabel Marina

Flora Vesterberg – the granddaughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin, Princess Alexandra – has welcomed her first child.

The art historian, 31, who is 62nd in line to the throne, took to her Instagram page yesterday to announce the birth of her daughter, Isabel Marina.

Sharing an adorable picture of the newborn sleeping in a white outfit with her 89,800 followers, Flora revealed her baby arrived safely last Wednesday.

She said she and her Swedish husband Timothy, also 31, who lives with the royal in London, where he works as a director of a private equity investment firm, are ‘overjoyed and full of love’ for their daughter.

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Flora wrote in the caption of her post: ‘Our daughter Isabel Marina Vesterberg arrived safely on the morning of 8 July. 

‘Timothy and I are overjoyed and full of love for her. She’s named for the blessing that she is as well as my paternal great-grandmother.

‘Her name also means “of the sea” where we always feel most at peace in Scotland and Sweden. Thank you for your thoughtful messages xx.’

Flora’s followers were quick to send their best wishes, including members of British high society like Lady Kitty Spencer, the niece of the late Princess Diana, and Lady Violet Manners, who earlier this month also welcomed her first child.

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Flora Vesterberg – granddaughter of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin, Princess Alexandra – has welcomed her first child, a daughter named Isabel Marina

Lady Tatiana Mountbatten – the daughter of King Charles’s cousin George Mountbatten, 4th Marquess of Milford Haven – also offered her congratulations in the post’s comments.

In January, Flora announced she was expecting her first child with Timothy, sharing the news on her social media account.

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Her post included a photo of the couple wearing coordinated navy outfits, which was taken by Flora’s father James Ogilvy, a landscape designer and photographer.

The caption read: ‘Delighted to share that Timothy and I are expecting our first child. We’re truly over the moon.’

For the pregnancy announcement, Flora picked a floral embroidered, linen midi dress from luxury label Erdem.

The PhD student, who was the first royal to speak openly about being diagnosed with autism, tenderly held her baby bump while Timothy had an arm around her waist.

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Flora’s Instagram post was flooded with congratulatory messages as friends, family members and royal fans celebrated the ‘wonderful news’. 

Her mother Julia Ogilvy wrote: ‘So much love from very excited grandparents!’

The art historian, who is 62nd in line to the throne, took to her Instagram page yesterday to announce the birth of her daughter

The art historian, who is 62nd in line to the throne, took to her Instagram page yesterday to announce the birth of her daughter

Flora said she and her Swedish husband Timothy are 'overjoyed and full of love' for their child

Flora said she and her Swedish husband Timothy are ‘overjoyed and full of love’ for their child

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Sculptor Poppy Field and hotel scion Irene Forte sent their best wishes to Flora and Timothy, who tied the knot in a private ceremony at St James’s Palace in September 2020 at the height of the Covid pandemic. 

British couturier Phillipa Lepley, who designed Flora’s wedding gown, added: ‘How exciting – many congratulations to you both.’

One fan comment read: ‘Congrats Flora! How exciting for you!! And how awesome for Princess A to have a great-grandchild on the way!!’ Another added: ‘Such a gorgeous photo of you all!’

Flora, who has an impressive academic background, revealed last October that she is undertaking a PhD at The Courtauld Institute of Art in London. 

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It came after Flora revealed she had been diagnosed with autism at the age of 30 in a deeply personal essay for Vogue, with the broadcaster explaining how she felt ‘compelled to pursue a clinical assessment’ ahead of beginning her PhD. 

She wrote: ‘I’ve struggled quietly with neurodiversity since childhood, but am now also able to perceive its strengths. 

‘As a result of the diagnosis, I feel empowered by having a framework with which to understand my experiences and sensitivities. It brings a sense of relief as well as validation.’ 

Flora concluded the moving essay, published during Autism Awareness Month last May, by encouraging ‘myself – and other autistic women – to be open with their community’ and discover ‘rituals to help them embrace their neurodiversity’. 

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In January, Flora announced she was expecting her first child with Timothy, sharing the news with a photo of the couple in coordinated navy outfits

In January, Flora announced she was expecting her first child with Timothy, sharing the news with a photo of the couple in coordinated navy outfits

Flora is the thrice great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, whose studies at the Courtauld will focus on ‘elevating Nordic impressionism’ as Flora told her Instagram followers she plans to spend more time in Scandinavia. 

Her PhD follows an impressive set of academic accolades, including a master’s degree from the Courtauld Institute of Art. 

She is a part of the university’s Campaign Board – a circle of prominent philanthropists and advisors raising £50million for the transformation of the Somerset House campus.

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When she is not working, the young royal can be spotted at elegant events and exclusive bashes across the globe, in typical socialite style.

Flora is always stepping out in style, whether it’s for artsy evenings in London, walking the runway for the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, or Fashion Week parties in Milan.

Her exclusive connections get her VIP access to fashion-related events, including Cartier, Bulgari and Longchamp, as seen from her Instagram posts.

Flora has a clear love of fashion and is often seen donning the latest trendy tea dresses and sleek stylish trousers for her arty days out.

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And, like Prince Harry’s former actress wife Meghan Markle, she also enjoys acting, having once spent the day as an extra on the hit ITV drama Downton Abbey.

Flora and her Swedish financier husband first met in May 2019 after being introduced by a mutual friend, later tying the knot in September 2020

Flora and her Swedish financier husband first met in May 2019 after being introduced by a mutual friend, later tying the knot in September 2020

Flora lives with her husband Timothy in London, where he works as a director of a private equity investment firm.

Formerly a professional ice hockey player in his native Sweden, he is a regular fixture on Flora’s Instagram page since they got together in May of 2019.

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They were introduced to one another by their best man Alexander Danielsson, who the bride had met in Paris during an internship for Sotheby’s.

Timothy visited an exhibition that Flora had curated at Connolly and conversation struck between the pair over an ink drawing by Alba Hodsoll, according to Vogue, and the rest was history.

The couple are believed to have had somewhat of a whirlwind romance after meeting and announced their engagement in November 2019.

Sharing the news of her engagement on Instagram, she posted: ‘We’re engaged! My beloved Timothy asked me to marry him and we’re blissfully happy.’

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They exchanged vows at the Chapel Royal of St James’s Palace, where Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840.

Royal guests at their wedding, held amidst strict Covid restrictions, included the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, as well as Lord Frederick Windsor and his Peep Show actress wife Sophie Winkleman.

Flora wore a stunning white lace bridal Phillipa Lepley gown, her grandmother’s pearl-detailed tiara and held a small posy, later posing with her husband underneath an archway adorned with white flowers.

Exactly one year later, the couple staged a more public marriage blessing at the chapel, with a host of royals in attendance.

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While her ties to the Royal Family are relatively low-key, Flora previously appeared on the balcony for the Trooping the Colour alongside her extended family and often makes an appearance at royal weddings.

She was also among the royal mourners at the September 2022 funeral for the late Queen Elizabeth, and attended the Duchess of Kent’s funeral at Westminster Abbey last year.

Flora seems to be close to Lady Amelia Windsor, a cousin of Prince William and Prince Harry, as she has posted multiple photos of her on social media.

As the granddaughter of a princess, she is a member of the Royal Family but does not, however, have her own title.

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Man and woman arrested after attempted ATM theft in south Belfast

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Belfast Live

Damage was noted to the ATM but nothing was taken.

Two people have been arrested following a reported attempted ATM theft in south Belfast.

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Police received a report shortly after 4am this morning, Monday 13 th July, that an attempt had been made to gain access to an ATM machine in the Upper Lisburn Road area of Finaghy.

Damage was noted to the ATM but nothing was taken.

A man, aged in his 50s, and a woman aged in her 40s have been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including attempted burglary, going equipped for burglary and drugs offences. They both remain in custody at this time. A PSNI spokesperson said: “An investigation is underway and anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the Upper Lisburn Road area in the early hours of Monday morning, or who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage, is asked to contact police using our witness appeal form at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals quoting 280 of 13/07/26 or call us on 101.

“Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

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Union barons branded ‘champagne socialists’ as it emerges more than a third are on six-figure pay packages – including bosses threatening more shutdowns of hospitals, schools and the rail network

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Among notable union barons on six-figure pay packages was Paul Nowak, boss of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), who had a total package worth £138,993, according to the CO report

Union barons were branded ‘champagne socialists’ last night as it emerged more than a third are on six-figure pay packages.

Figures show 45 of Britain’s 131 barons are sitting pretty on six-figure earnings – with one in six raking in packages worth as much as the Prime Minister’s salary or more. One banked pay and perks worth £725,000 last year, according to a report.

It comes after thousands of union members were urged to forgo their own salaries by striking, with more shutdowns to schools, hospitals and the railways being threatened by hard-Left barons.

More than 1.2million working days have been lost to strikes since Labour won the 2024 election. Health, education and rail union bosses who are threatening more strikes were among those recorded as having six-figure packages.

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Tory MP Greg Smith said: ‘There has to become a tipping point where trade union members look up and see what is really going on – union bosses on massive salaries, funded via membership fees, while constantly telling the actual workers to go out and strike and forfeit their own wages.

‘It’s a classic of the genre for union chiefs – “do as I say, not as I do”.

Tory MP Joe Robertson, who sits on the Commons health committee, added: ‘Labour promised to end strikes when they came to power but by caving in to their union mates within weeks they have only encouraged more.’

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Among notable union barons on six-figure pay packages was Paul Nowak, boss of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), who had a total package worth £138,993, according to the CO report 

Boss of the RMT rail union, Eddie Dempsey, was among bosses on six-figure pay packages, with a base salary of £96,838 and benefits worth £30,501, according to the CO report

Boss of the RMT rail union, Eddie Dempsey, was among bosses on six-figure pay packages, with a base salary of £96,838 and benefits worth £30,501, according to the CO report 

Boss of the hardline NEU education union, Daniel Kebede, was among union chiefs on six-figure pay packages, with a salary of £136,902 and perks worth £11,598, according to the CO report

Boss of the hardline NEU education union, Daniel Kebede, was among union chiefs on six-figure pay packages, with a salary of £136,902 and perks worth £11,598, according to the CO report 

William Yarwood, of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: ‘Union bosses love to preach solidarity while pocketing pay packages most workers could only dream of.

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‘It takes some brass neck for six-figure union barons to threaten strikes that disrupt patients, pupils and commuters, while ordinary taxpayers and members foot the bill for the strikes.

‘If these champagne socialists want to lecture the country on fairness, they should start by explaining why their own rewards keep rising while membership falls.’

Details of union bosses’ pay and perks were published by regulator the Certification Officer (CO) in its annual report last week.

Analysis of the figures for the 2025/26 financial year shows 45 bosses of 117 unions which filed annual returns – financial and membership reports they are required to submit – received salaries and ‘benefits’ worth six figures or more.

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Several unions, including Unite, which is Britain’s second-largest union, failed to submit returns, meaning the figure is likely higher than 45. Nearly 20 barons got packages worth as much or more than the PM’s salary of £166, 000 last year.

Three new unions were added to the official register last year, according to the CO report, bringing the total number in England, Wales and Scotland to 131.

Among those recorded as having six-figure salaries was the boss of the militant British Medical Association (BMA), which has unleashed chaos on NHS patients with 15 rounds of strikes by resident doctors over the last three years.

It is threatening more walkouts in the coming months after senior doctors earning an average £152,000 became the latest to vote for industrial action.

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The union is demanding a multi-year pay deal worth an extra inflation-busting 33 per cent – or £50,000 – for the new strikes to be averted.

The union last night confirmed Tom Dolphin, the BMA Chair of Council, was entitled to a salary of £103,612, although it said he may not end up being settled this much as he juggles the role with being a practising doctor.

Among the notable union bosses on six figure pay packages was Gary Smith, boss of the GMB union (£121,000 salary and £31,000 benefits), according to the CO report

Among the notable union bosses on six figure pay packages was Gary Smith, boss of the GMB union (£121,000 salary and £31,000 benefits), according to the CO report 

Maryam Eslamdoust, General Secretary of TSSA transport union, was among union leaders who got six-figure packages, according to the official CO report

Maryam Eslamdoust, General Secretary of TSSA transport union, was among union leaders who got six-figure packages, according to the official CO report 

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Strikes among junior doctors, formerly known as resident doctors, crippled the NHS and affected thousands of patients between 2023 and last month, when walkouts were called off after a pay deal was struck with ministers

Strikes among junior doctors, formerly known as resident doctors, crippled the NHS and affected thousands of patients between 2023 and last month, when walkouts were called off after a pay deal was struck with ministers 

The firebrand bosses of the hardline RMT rail union and NEU education union – both of whom are threatening strikes this year – were also on six-figure packages.

RMT boss Eddie Dempsey’s package was made up of a base salary of £96,838 and benefits worth £30,501 while NEU chief, Daniel Kebede, got a salary of £136,902 and perks worth £11,598, according to the CO report. It is understood this has since increased.

Mr Kebede has said his union would ‘not accept’ the Government’s latest pay offer for teachers, which would see them paid 3.5 per cent more from this September and a further 3 per cent the following year, paving the way for strikes this winter.

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Mr Dempsey has also written to train bosses threatening strikes unless staff are handed inflation-busting pay hikes.

The highest pay package was banked by the boss of the Professional Footballers’ Association, who got a salary of £649,000 and ‘benefits’ of £76,000.

The union represents current and former professional footballers.

This was followed by the boss of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Stephen Cotton, (£235,000 salary and £44,000 benefits).

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Among those enjoying packages worth more than Sir Keir Starmer’s salary, who got £166,786 last year, were the bosses of the National Association of Head Teachers (£182,422 salary and £39,120 benefits) and the Royal College of Midwives (£149,413 salary and £38,997 benefits).

Other notable unions with bosses on six figure packages included Gary Smith, boss of the GMB union (£121,000 salary and £31,000 benefits), and Paul Nowak, boss of the Trades Union Congress, who had a total package worth £138,993 (£117,607 salary and £21,386 benefits).

The packages come despite trade union membership numbers having fallen from around 7million a decade ago to about 6.5million last year.

A BMA spokesman said: ‘As a working doctor he only draws the salary from BMA that he would otherwise be paid as a consultant anaesthetist in his normal job.’

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Spokesmen for the ITF and RMT unions said their packages were ‘democratically agreed’ by members.

An NEU spokesman said: ‘His gross salary is in line with the national pay scales to which NEU members are subject, and is equivalent to the salary of some headteachers working in London.’

A TUC spokesman said: ‘The general secretary is well paid. But let’s put things into perspective – at £5.2million the average FTSE 100 CEO earns 44 times more a year.’

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When to watch Emmerdale and Coronation Street this week

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When to watch Emmerdale and Coronation Street this week

The FIFA World Cup has now progressed to the knockout stages and will disrupt soap schedules again this week, with Emmerdale and Coronation Street fans to see a few schedule changes on ITV1 due to football coverage.

The soaps regularly get moved around for football matches, and this week is no different.

Here’s what we know about the TV schedule shake-up and which episodes the changes affect.

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TV schedule changes for Emmerdale and Coronation Street this week

Emmerdale and Coronation Street usually air 30-minute episodes on ITV1 at 8pm and 8.30pm respectively, Monday to Friday, in what is known as the “soaps power hour” (introduced in January 2026).

However, there will be some changes this week, according to Radio Times’ TV guide.

All timings are correct at the time of writing.

On Monday, July 13, Emmerdale and Corrie will be available to watch at the normal times – 8pm and 8.30pm respectively – for 30 minutes each.

There will be no new episode of either soap on Tuesday, July 14, as ITV will air the first quarter-final match.

On Wednesday, July 15, there will be further disruption as ITV broadcasts the second semi-final match, which will clash with the soaps’ usual slot and mean there are no new episodes.

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The most evil Emmerdale villains


The TV schedule will be back to normal on Thursday (July 16) as Emmerdale will have a new episode from 8pm until 8.30pm, when Coronation Street will air.

On Friday, July 17, fans can expect another night of soaps with new episodes of Emmerdale and Corrie airing at 8pm and 8.30pm respectively.

There will be no episode on Saturday, July 18 or Sunday, July 19, when ITV will air the World Cup final.

The disruption to the schedules means fans will not get their usual 2.5 hours of soaps this week – they will instead get to watch 1.5 hours of new episodes.

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What Emmerdale or Corrie storyline has been your favourite recently? Tell us in the comments below.

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Kev reveals Serena’s identity to a stunned Robert in Emmerdale | Soaps

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Kev reveals Serena's identity to a stunned Robert in Emmerdale | Soaps
He’s worked it out (Picture: ITV)

The following article contains spoilers from the episode of Emmerdale dated July 13. It hasn’t aired on ITV1 yet, but can be viewed on ITVX and YouTube.

When Kev Townsend (Chris Coghill) first laid eyes on Serena Sugden (Casey Al-Shaqsy) in Emmerdale, he was convinced that he knew her from somewhere.

‘I never forget a face’, he said.

Kev racked his brains trying to work out where he’d seen Serena before. In the pub, he put forward the theory that she was a ‘screw’ – another word for a prison guard. Serena denied the claim, insisting he had mistaken her for someone else.

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But this is a man who spent years in and out of the criminal justice system. He wasn’t about to get a face muddled up. The only thing he’d misremembered was Serena’s job.

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A number of village residents are now growing suspicious of Serena, due to the fact she seems particularly interested in the chaos John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth) caused when he lived there.

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John’s ex Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) believes that Serena shouldn’t be trusted, but that’s only because the last time a long-lost Sugden rocked up to Emmerdale, it was John.

There’s also Moira Dingle (Natalie J Robb), who is busy wondering why Serena would want to know the details of Nate Robinson’s (Jurell Carter) murder, when it happened in 2024.

Vanessa Woodfield (Michelle Hardwick), sister of Nate’s partner Tracy Shankley (Amy Walsh), became the next person to make it clear that she thinks Serena is hiding something.

Serena walking through the door of Emmerdale Farm's farmhouse
Serena has been digging for information on John Sugden (Picture: ITV)

As she theorised with Moira in today’s episode, the woman in question was trying to leave Main Street for a meeting with someone.

She was interrupted by Kev who, once again, tried to work out Serena’s identity.

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Interestingly, Serena seemed stressed in this moment, which caused her to snap at Kev and tell him to back off. This was the first time we had seen this side of Serena, and it was potentially what caused Kev to remember exactly why he knows this new face.

At Emmerdale Farm, Kev let himself in (I guess former criminals forget that you knock at a door before entering), and waited for Robert to return.

Once he had got over the surprise that his ex was sat in his house, Robert was eager to learn why Kev thinks he knows his cousin.

Kev confirmed that Serena is a copper, and it left Robert stunned.

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Robert speaks to Kev in the Emmerdale village
Robert helped his sister cover up John’s murder earlier this year (Picture: ITV)

This is a massive problem because Robert – along with a handful of other residents – know what really happened to John Sugden.

The character was murdered by Victoria Sugden (Isabel Hodgins) at the start of the year, but the police concluded that John had ended his life.

With Serena digging for information on John and Nate, the possibility of Vic’s secret being exposed has increased tenfold.

If Serena discovers the truth, will she send Vic to prison, along with everyone else who knows what really happened?

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Children who take part in junior parkrun ‘feel happier’

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Children who take part in junior parkrun 'feel happier'

A survey of 779 children by parkrun found that 76% felt happier after completing a junior parkrun event.

The weekly 2km runs, held on Sunday mornings, are open to children aged four to 14 and are part of the Keep Moving This Summer campaign.

Children who take part in junior parkrun ‘feel happier’ after

James Thomas, junior parkrun impact and engagement manager, said: “junior parkrun offers something really simple – somewhere to go on a Sunday morning that is free, friendly and good for you.

“We hope even more families will give it a try this summer.”

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Of the 1,375 families surveyed, 84% said the runs had boosted their child’s sense of achievement and 68% reported an increased enjoyment of physical activity.

Dame Rachel de Souza, children’s commissioner for England, said: “These findings reinforce what children have told me time and again: being outdoors, exploring their communities and spending time with friends and family plays a vital role in their wellbeing.

“I look forward to joining young runners at a junior parkrun this summer.

“Every child should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play and activity during the school holidays, regardless of their family’s circumstances.”

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Sports minister Stephanie Peacock added: “Summer should be all about getting outside, enjoying the good weather and keeping active.

“junior parkrun gives families the chance to do all of those things together, in a friendly environment and for free.

“It is vital that every child has the chance to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity, both at school and beyond.”

What is parkrun?

Parkrun is a free, weekly, community event where people walk, jog, run, or volunteer.

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The main events are 5-kilometre (5k) courses held in parks and open spaces every Saturday morning.

There are also 2k events for children aged 4 to 14 on Sunday mornings.

It is completely free, but you must register online before your first event.

Have you ever taken part in a parkrun event? Let us know in the comments.

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What Are Manlets And Hiplets? Body-Shaming Terms Explained

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What Are Manlets And Hiplets? Body-Shaming Terms Explained

This week I came across the terms “manlet” and “hiplet” for the first time online – and I felt genuinely deflated for the youngest generation.

For those who haven’t come across the terms, “manlet” is a derogatory term that’s been used online for years as a way to height-shame shorter men and boys.

But now “hiplet”, which seems to be newer, is about body-shaming women and girls for having ‘hip dips’ (inward curves located below the hips and just above the thighs) as a retaliation to ‘manlet’ abuse.

Some claim the “the hiplet movement is an allegory to heightism” – basically, men are using the term “hiplet” to make a bigger point about prejudice against shorter men.

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But these body-shaming terms ultimately aren’t helping anyone. Men have shared online how the term “manlet” has made them feel “depressed and insecure”, while women are saying “hiplet” is just another insecurity to add to the list.

Commenting on the trend, Fiona Yassin, family psychotherapist, and founder and clinical director of The Wave Clinic, told HuffPost UK: “Social media has a way of taking a perfectly normal human characteristic and turning it into a ‘flaw’ overnight.

“Terms like ‘manlet’ or ‘hiplet’ are designed to shame people by making them feel as though their body is somehow outside the norm, when in reality height, hip shape and body proportions vary enormously and are entirely unique.”

How to talk to young people about body-shaming comments

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While adults might be able to brush off comments made online, for young people it can be a lot harder to just “ignore” them.

Yassin suggests that if a child reveals they’ve been targeted with one of these terms, parents should “resist the urge to dismiss it”.

“Instead, acknowledge what they are saying, validate their feelings, and remind them that these insults say far more about the culture of online comparison than they do about the person being targeted,” she added.

You could ask them open questions such as, “how did that make you feel in the moment?” or “what do you think those comments were trying to achieve?” – this, the therapist added, can help them process the experience rather than internalise it.

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Of course, half the time these comments are probably coming from other young people who might not fully understand what they mean – or how they can seriously cause hurt.

“Children engaging in viral trends often don’t fully understand the potential impact on others,” continued Yassin.

“The goal for parents is to reintroduce mentalising – the ability to reflect on the thoughts, feelings, and intentions of both themselves and other people. When mentalising is ‘off-track’, children may act or speak without considering how it lands.”

If your child has called other people these terms, saying it was “just meant to be funny”, it can be helpful to remind them that a joke is only a joke when everyone is laughing.

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The therapist continued that “if it’s damaging, toxic, makes others uncomfortable or is at someone else’s expense, it’s not a joke”.

“Ultimately, it’s important for children to understand that our actions always affect others.”

Supporting teens to build body confidence

At home, it can also help to:

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1. Avoid commenting on body shape or size

“Avoid comments about your teenager’s appearance – especially if they’re negative, or could be interpreted that way,” said Yassin.

It’s important children don’t hear the adults in their lives criticising their own bodies – or the bodies of other people.

“When parents criticise body shape, or suggest someone could improve their appearance, be ‘thinner’ or make their body different in some way, the underlying message is: you are not okay as you are,” warned the therapist.

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2. Build body confidence by focusing on function, not appearance

“Building body confidence starts with helping teenagers see themselves as more than their appearance,” she continued.

You can do this by encouraging conversations about what their body allows them to do, rather than how it looks, and help them develop a critical eye towards social media trends that profit from insecurity and outrage.

“The goal isn’t to convince teenagers that cruel comments don’t matter, but to help them build a strong enough sense of self that someone else’s attempt to define them carries far less weight,” Yassin added.

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3. Validate personal qualities – not appearance

Therapists and body image experts generally advise to steer clear of praising kids on their appearance or physical attributes, instead opting to praise kindness, creativity, resilience, humour, effort and values.

4. Seek professional support early

Unfortunately kids can’t escape bullying, as it can follow them home online.

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Heightism, especially among boys, should be taken seriously – it’s a form of bullying and can have negative mental health implications for those on the receiving end.

Yassin advised that if body-shaming continues at school or begins to affect a young person’s mood, confidence or willingness to socialise, it’s important to involve the school and seek additional support if needed.

“If a young person shows signs of body image distress, restrictive eating, bingeing, purging, or obsessive exercise, early intervention is critical,” she added.

“Eating disorders are complex and often require the assistance of a psychiatric and mental health team. The earlier we intervene, the better the outcome.”

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14 million Drivers warned of hours of delays this weekend

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14 million Drivers warned of hours of delays this weekend

The RAC estimates that 14.1 million drivers will take to the roads across the UK between Friday and Sunday.

It comes as most schools in England and Wales break up for the summer holidays, with Saturday expected to be the most congested day as 3.8 million journeys are planned.

A further 3.4 million trips are expected on Friday and Sunday.

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Harriet Hernando, a spokesperson for the RAC, said: “Drivers should be ready for the Saturday summer scramble and plan their journeys, thinking about setting off earlier or later in the day to avoid traffic jams.

“People should prepare for delays and getting stuck in a jam in potentially very hot weather.

“People should carry plenty of water, as well as suncream and an umbrella to provide shade.”

Another 6.8 million journeys are expected to be spread across the three-day period, with drivers undecided on which day to travel.

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The RAC said that south-west and north-west England are likely to see the heaviest volumes.

Transport analytics firm Inrix has identified several key congestion hotspots in the region, including the M1 southbound from Northampton (junction 16) to Watford (junction 6).

Other national hotspots include the M25 clockwise from Junction 15 (the M4) to Junction 19 (Watford), and the M25 anticlockwise from Junction 17 (Maple Cross) to Junction 12 (the M3).

Travel delays are expected to be compounded by higher fuel prices compared to last summer.

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Filling a 55-litre family petrol car now costs £8.90 more than a year ago, while diesel drivers are paying £21.20 extra.

The increase in UK staycations is being partly attributed to concerns over flight disruptions, delays at EU borders, and household budgets being squeezed by global events including the conflict in Iran.

Ms Hernando said many families are choosing a UK holiday rather than an overseas break this summer, which she suggested could be caused by issues such as flight disruption, EU border delays and household budgets being squeezed by the Iran war.

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Concerns over international travel centre on the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which became fully operational in April.


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The system requires non-EU travellers, including those from the UK, to have their fingerprints and photograph taken before entering the Schengen Area.

This process is also in place at the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel’s Folkestone terminal, and London St Pancras.

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The travel industry has called on the EU to suspend the EES system until September, warning that delays could become even more severe during the height of the summer season—a request that has so far been refused.

Are you heading on a summer getaway this weekend? Let us know if you’re prepared for delays in the comments.

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Andrew Garfield’s wild long hair leaves him looking ‘almost unrecognisable’ at Wimbledon as he is overshadowed by Jennifer Lopez’s huge hat

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Andrew Garfield debuted his new wild long hair at Wimbledon on Sunday as fans exclaimed he looked 'almost unrecognisable'

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Andrew Garfield appeared to debut his new wild long hair as he joined the celebrities in attendance at Wimbledon on Sunday. 

The actor, 42, sparked speculation of a hair transplant last year when he was seen sporting noticeably longer locks. 

And it seems Andrew has let his brunette tresses go wild as he sat with his shades on in the stands of the prestigious tennis tournament with fans exclaiming he looked ‘almost unrecognisable’. 

Sat in the row below Jennifer Lopez and Tom Hiddleston, many didn’t spot the Spider-Man star at first as he was overshadowed by the pop sensation and her giant sun hat. 

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Taking to Twitter they asked: ‘Is that Andrew Garfield in front of her?’ 

Others penned: ‘Didn’t even realize that’s Andrew Garfield. Not that anyone cares that he’s there’;

Andrew Garfield debuted his new wild long hair at Wimbledon on Sunday as fans exclaimed he looked ‘almost unrecognisable’ 

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Sat in the row below Jennifer Lopez and Tom Hiddleston, many didn't spot the Spider-Man star at first as he was overshadowed by the pop sensation and her giant sun hat

Sat in the row below Jennifer Lopez and Tom Hiddleston, many didn’t spot the Spider-Man star at first as he was overshadowed by the pop sensation and her giant sun hat

‘Also an almost unrecognizable Andrew Garfield in front of them’; ‘Also why is no one  talking about Andrew Garfield, smack in the middle’.

After first coming to fame over a decade ago, last year it appeared the Spider-Man star’s hairline looked to have been altered, appearing much thicker than before.

Andrew’s widow’s peak is much less prominent and lower down his forehead than before, with his hair no longer appearing to be receding or thinning around his temples.

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The transformation sparked rumours that he had undergone a hair transplant and fans also declared that if he had gotten a procedure, it was exceedingly well done – with some stating it to be ‘the best hair transplant in Hollywood’.

In a previous appearance on Stephen Colbert’s show, Andrew revealed he may be genetically predisposed to losing his hair, as he explained both his dad and brother were bald, joking that he ‘needs some help’ in that department.

While the We Live In Time star has never confirmed or denied having had any treatments, his hair has become a hot topic on social media.

But the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many insisting that his supposed transplant is ‘literally a work of God’ and declaring the surgeon responsible ‘deserves all the praise’.

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Elsewhere Jennifer Lopez caused quite the controversy after she turned up to SW19 in a huge sun hat.

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Taking to Twitter they asked: 'Is that Andrew Garfield in front of her?' Others penned: 'Didn¿t even realize that¿s Andrew Garfield. Not that anyone cares that he¿s there'

Taking to Twitter they asked: ‘Is that Andrew Garfield in front of her?’ Others penned: ‘Didn’t even realize that’s Andrew Garfield. Not that anyone cares that he’s there’

The actor was seen looking shocked as he watched the final unfold

The actor was seen looking shocked as he watched the final unfold 

As temperatures soared in London, the singer, 56, went to extreme levels to protect herself from the sun and has faced backlash as fans branded the accessory ‘inappropriate’ and inconsiderate to the people sitting behind her. 

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Taking to Twitter, one angry fan penned: ‘@JLo this type of hat is inappropriate for such events! You should do your homework lady!’

Another joked that it was so big it looked like she had folded up a cardboard box as they wrote: ‘JLo looks like she has made her hat from an amazon box!’

Other frustrated fans added: ‘@JLo just so you know , with that hat , guests that paid a lot of money to be right there , can’t watch because you like to look good for Instagram.’;

‘However JLo entered wearing a huge hat. They should have required her to remove It’;

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‘The hat is a bit much taking into consideration the people behind and next to you.’; ‘JLo looks ridiculous in that hat. Pay attention to me as usual.’;

‘Love the outfit just not the hat for this kind of event. First, it looks a bit like a crumpled paper bag. Maybe the Kentucky Derby because it’s a hat show. But tennis matches are conservative, crisp, & clean so the attire should match the sport. You have great hair. Work it.’

However others rushed to the star’s defence as they explained she did remove it later in the game as she spent the day with Tom Hiddleston. 

They wrote: ‘She took the hat off. People leave this woman alone’; ‘Big hat energy. JLo looks absolutely adorable!’ 

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Conwy wildfire at Sychnant Pass expected to spread in heatwave

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A composite side by side. On the left, there is a hill with clear damage from a fire as some bellows from the hillside. There is a strip of fire coming down the mountain. On the right, the sky is barely visible with the sun just poking through the blooms of smoke in the sky. There is an emergency vehicle visible on the side of the road.

Thirty-six homes have been evacuated after a major incident was declared following a wildfire in north Wales.

The blaze broke out near Conwy Mountain and the Sychnant Pass in Conwy county on Sunday.

About 200 acres of land had been affected, and one family forced to flee their home said the fire reached their driveway.

Anthony Jones, assistant chief fire officer for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, told Radio 4’s Today programme they were expecting the fire to spread because of the heatwave.

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Jones said residents living nearby should keep windows and doors shut.

He added that about 200 acres of land had been affected with a fire front of about 1.6km at the height of the incident.

Speaking to Radio Wales Breakfast, Llinos Evans from North Wales Fire and Rescue said it evacuated 36 properties in Capelulo, which is near the mountain, on Sunday as a precaution.

She added that at any one time the service have had eight fire appliances, four narrow access vehicles and two wildfire units.

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Michelle Campbell, 44, her husband Ben, 46, and their three sons fled their home in Capelulo as the fire reached their property.

“The sound was worse than anything. It was so loud, the crackling. You could hear it coming down the mountain,” said Ben.

He said he received a missed call at 04:30, but 30 minutes later a neighbour banged on their door and said: “The mountain’s on fire above your house.”

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