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Fire service issue statement on NI wildfires as amber warning in place

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Belfast Live

“There is an amber weather warning in place for wildfires today, so please remain vigilant and follow our fire safety advice. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately.”

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service have advised the public to remain vigilant after a number of wildfires in the Mournes have been brought under control.

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An amber weather warning for wildfires is in place for Thursday as dry weather continues.

While wildfires in the Mournes have been brought under control, 30 firefighters remain at a wildfire in Dungiven.

A NIFRS spokesperson said: “The wildfires in Sandbank Road, Hilltown, Chimney Rock Mountain, Newcastle, and Cranny Road, Crassmaglen, have now all been dealt with.

“The initial call for the wildfire on Sandbank Road, Hilltown, was received at 9.01am on Sunday 26 April 2026. At the height of the incident, approximately 50 Firefighters were involved in tackling the wildfire expanding 1,500 hectares. The cause of the wildfire is under investigation and the incident was dealt with by 10.40am on Thursday 30 April 2026.

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“The initial call for the wildfire on Chimney Rock Mountain, Newcastle, was received at 12.12pm on Tuesday 28 April 2026. At the height of the incident, approximately 45 Firefighters were involved in battling a 600m fire front. The cause of the wildfire is under investigation and the incident was dealt with this morning (Thursday 30 April 2026).

“The initial call for the wildfire on Cranny Road, Mullaghbawn, Crossmaglen, was received at 2.11pm on Wednesday 29 April 2026. At the height of the incident, approximately 30 Firefighters were involved extinguishing the 8 acres of fire. The cause of the wildfire is believed to have been deliberate ignition and the incident was dealt with by 9.21pm on Wednesday 29 April 2026.

“There are currently approximately 30 Firefighters at a wildfire on Polly’s Brae Road, Dungiven, tackling a fire front of approximately 500m. We are urging the public to please avoid the area.

“There is an amber weather warning in place for wildfires today so please remain vigilant and follow our fire safety advice. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately.”

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Please adhere to the following advice to prevent fires in the countryside:

  • Avoid using open fires in the countryside. An open fire can easily get out of control.
  • Extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.
  • Only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended.
  • Ensure barbeques are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of their contents.
  • Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland. Take them home or dispose in a waste or recycling bin.
  • Be considerate in parking vehicles so you don’t impede access for emergency vehicles.
  • Keep children away from lighters, matches and open fires.
  • Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be extinguished with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.
  • If you see a fire in the countryside, report it to NIFRS immediately by calling 999.
  • If you see someone setting fires, report it to the PSNI.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

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Ex-Spandau Ballet star Ross Davidson jailed for rape

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During a trial in July 2024, he was convicted of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and voyeurism against four women while in January this year, he was found guilty of raping a woman in London in March 2015, and the attempted rape and sexual assault of another woman in Thailand in December 2019. He pleaded guilty to one count of voyeurism.

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Radcliffe mum’s tribute to son, 21, who died on holiday

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Radcliffe mum's tribute to son, 21, who died on holiday

Lisa Heald, from Radcliffe, went on holiday to Dalyan in Turkey with her family last August, to celebrate her husband, James Heald, turning 50.

A few days into what was supposed to be a week-long relaxing vacation, the family were walking back to where they were staying after enjoying a meal together, when Lisa asked her son, Branigan Smith, to take a photo.

Obliging, the 21-year-old, took the picture and handed his mum the phone back, then she said he collapsed right in front of her, and before she knew it, another English tourist who had seen what had happened, ran over and began CPR, explaining she was a doctor.

Lisa, 46, said: “He’d not been ill. He’d not said he was not feeling too great that night. His behaviour was no different to Branigan at any other point.”

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Lisa Heald with her son Branigan Smith (Image: Lisa Heald)

Mum-of-three Lisa said the emergency services were then called and she and her husband had to follow Branigan in the ambulance for a 20-minute journey, which she described as feeling “like a lifetime” to the nearest hospital.

When they arrived, Branigan was being looked after in a cubicle, and she said the language barrier was making things difficult.

But thankfully, a kind waiter who recognised the family from earlier in the holiday had heard about what happened, and came to the hospital to help translate for the family.

Sadly, doctors told her that they tried for 50 minutes to revive Branigan, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

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Lisa, who works as a compliance manager, said she remembered “feeling numb” and having to identify her son’s body.

Branigan worked as a travel agent, and Lisa said he had a travel insurance policy that covered his repatriation. His body arrived in the UK on September 3, 2025.

She said the cause of his death is still unknown, and this has made processing his death even more difficult for her family.

Branigan was a keen football fan (Image: Lisa Heald)

Lisa said: “It’s so hard not knowing. Would it have always happened? Would it have happened at home? Was it always going to be that night?

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“They’re just things that we, I don’t know if we’ll ever get the answers to.

“And could it happen to somebody else? Could it happen to another?

“Thinking about going on holiday and stuff, you live in fear that something might happen like that again.”

Branigan had two sisters, McKenzie and Daisy Smith, aged 27 and 14, and Lisa says if she did know his cause of death was an illness, this could mean that they could be tested.

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She said it was “heartwarming” when customers from the travel agent, whom she had never met, attended his funeral.

Lisa said: “Branigan went to the gym four times a week. He was a healthy young lad.

Branigan Smith with his sisters, McKenzie and Daisy Smith (Image: Lisa Heald)

“He loved football. He was a massive Bolton Wanderers fan, hence why he’s called Branigan because there was a goalkeeper called Keith Branagan.

“He loved travel. That’s why he studied travel and tourism in college.

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“He was such a lovable, happy boy. I’ve never known anyone who laughed and was as happy as Branigan was.”

Now Lisa has organised a football match in memory of Branigan, who used to play for Radcliffe Juniors and Westbury when he was young.

It will be held at 7.30pm on Friday, May 22, at Radcliffe FC, Neuven Stadium, Colshaw Close.

The match will see the two teams set against one another and will cost £1 to attend, with all funds going to the British Heart Foundation.

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Lisa said she chose the charity because, although there is no official cause of death for Branigan yet, it could have been that he suffered a sudden cardiac death.

She said somebody has donated a trophy in her son’s name, which will now be the Branigan Smith Memorial Cup, and she has been asked to present this on the night.

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Arsenal FC vs Fulham: Prediction, kick-off time, TV, live stream, team news, h2h results, odds

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Arsenal FC vs Fulham: Prediction, kick-off time, TV, live stream, team news, h2h results, odds

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One taken to hospital after ‘medical emergency’ on Middlesbrough A19

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One taken to hospital after 'medical emergency' on Middlesbrough A19

Emergency services were called to the southbound carriageway close to the Mandale Interchange in Middlesbrough at 2.16pm today (April 30).

AA and Traffic England confirmed there had been a ‘medical incident’ with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) saying one person was taken to hospital.

A spokesperson for the NEAS said: “We were called to a road traffic incident in Middlesbrough at 2.16pm on April 30.

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“We dispatched a double crewed ambulance and a specialist paramedic. One patient was taken to James Cook Hospital.” 

A spokesperson for AA Traffic Maps added: “Traffic congestion and one lane closed due to medical incident on A19 Southbound at A1130 Acklam Road (Mandale Interchange).”

The lane has since been reopened.

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Two men charged with manslaughter of Port Clarence grandad

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Two men charged with manslaughter of Port Clarence grandad

Brian Gately, known to family and friends as Big Bri, died after reports of an altercation with a group of people outside his home on Samphire Street, Port Clarence.

The incident happened at around 9.15pm on November 28, 2022. There were multiple arrests at the time but never any charges until now.

Brian Gately died after a suspected altercation with a group of people outside his home on Samphire Street, Port Clarence. (Image: Cleveland Police)

Cleveland Police confirmed that Ashley Cooper, 29, of Gisburn Road in Billingham and Dean Barnett, 26, of Rowan Tree Gardens in Redcar, have both been charged with manslaughter.

Barnett is due to appear at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on June 8, and Cooper is due to appear at the same court on June 10.

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In November 2024, following a renewed appeal for information, Mr Gately’s family spoke of the impact of his death and their continued search for answers.

They said: “There has been no closure for us as a family after losing Big Bri. We are a big family, and we all miss him so much.

“Some of Bri’s grandkids never got to meet their grandad, and without knowing what really happened to him, we cannot explain this to all of the kids and we can’t have any closure.

“Big Bri loved Christmas. It was a big time for him, and everyone went to his on Christmas Day. He loved having everyone together.

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“As we head towards Christmas as a family, without Big Bri again, we want to ask anyone who has any information at all to please tell the police.

“Please help our family get the answers we need to try and move forward and get some closure.”

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Scarborough councillors oppose housing plan at Duchess pub

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Scarborough councillors oppose housing plan at Duchess pub

Scarborough Town Councillors have said they do not want to see ​the Duchess pub at 152 Hovingham Drive, Scarborough, converted into three flats as proposed by RPC Scarborough Ltd.

​The outline proposal for the site, which is near Scarborough Hospital, would include the construction of detached bungalows if it is approved by the planning authority.

​Town councillors said they were opposed to the proposal over a loss of amenity for local residents and proposed setting up an online page to raise awareness of the proposal among the community.

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​Cllr Chris Clarke said the company behind the plan had “no track record or experience in the ownership or operation of public houses” and suggested that “the company’s primary focus is not the operation of a public house”.

​Speaking at a meeting of Scarborough Town Council’s community and place committee on Wednesday, April 29, he added: “The proposal does not sufficiently demonstrate any sort of commitment by RPC to the continued operation of the premises as a viable public house, and on this basis, I call for refusal.”

​Cllr David Knowles said: “It’s the only pub on that large housing development and because it’s a big pub, it used to do food.

​“So, I don’t think it’s been given a fair crack at the whip in terms of how it’s been promoted and marketed, and it probably could do better.”

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At the meeting, committee members voted against the conversion of the pub, which will be decided by the local planning authority.

​However, in a statement submitted as part of the planning application, the pub’s former licensee gave their support to the conversion as the pub “is not commercially viable, and the local community do not view it as a significant community asset”.

​​The ex-licensee said: “The local community did not support the pub and did not appear to view the public house as a community asset in any significant way, and I have heard no significant negative comments following its closure.

​”They also noted that the pub “barely broke even”.

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​​Submitted plans state that the proposed development would retain the existing building’s scale and massing with no increase in building height.

​​“The existing two-storey form is retained; this ensures the development remains compatible with neighbouring residential properties.”

​​The applicant said that the conversion of the pub would have positive impacts, including a reduction in noise associated with pub operations, reduced evening and late-night activity, and added that the building would continue to be occupied and maintained.

​​Submitted plans also state that the proposed bungalow development would be located a “sufficient distance away from the Duchess building and adjacent housing”.

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​They add: “The proposed bungalow design is in response to the local context and is designed to reflect the scale, form, heights and layout arrangements of the existing buildings.”

​​North Yorkshire Council has not set a date for deciding on the application which is currently open to representations from members of the public.

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Best Cooling Bedding 2026: Simba’s New Breathable Range Reviewed For Hot Sleepers

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Simba Hybrid Pillow & Duvet Review 2026: Is The Temperature-Regulating Technology Worth The Price?

We hope you love the products we recommend! All of them were independently selected by our editors. Just so you know, HuffPost UK may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to shop from them. Oh, and FYI — prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.

If you’re anything like us, you’re completely obsessed with sleep RN. And we don’t blame you – life is busy, our brains are constantly wired, and all we want is a good night’s sleep to get us through the week.

Things get even more complicated when we reach the warmer months: waking up with the light, sweating through the night, and having to wash our sheets every few days to make up for it.

If there’s anything that can stop us from running hot at night, we’re all over it.

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So when we heard that Simba – the company renowned for its unbeaten mattresses, pillows, and duvets – had launched a fresh bedding collection, we were the first to jump into bed. Yep, Simba didn’t even have to take us out for dinner first!

Intended to ‘redefine the sleep environment’ the launch is made up of six temperature-regulating fabrics, including Tencel, linen, muslin, and cotton (percale, waffle, and Egyptian, don’t you know!).

No matter what kind of texture you’re into, there’s something for everyone – you could even mix and match!

While it might be on the pricier side, each fabric is intended to adapt to different temperatures so you don’t have to keep switching up your bedding with each season (so really you’re saving money).

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You can also choose from seven new colours – our faves are the dusty rose and oat cappuccino – to layer for the ultimate cosy cocoon.

Whether you’re looking for fresh pillowcases, sheets, or a new set entirely, this is our pick of Simba’s latest bedding release.

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World Championship 2026: John Higgins battles back to level semi-final with Shaun Murphy

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John Higgins grimaces

John Higgins produced a battling display to fight back from 3-1 down to draw level at 4-4 against Shaun Murphy in the opening session of their World Championship semi-final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

It was far from fluent from the four-time world champion, whose highest break of 50 gave him the eighth frame of the contest.

Indeed, for most of Thursday afternoon he appeared to still be feeling the effects of his late-night quarter-final victory over Neil Robertson, as he failed to make a number of easy pots in an error-strewn showing.

However, not for the first time in the tournament, he exhibited all his resolve and granite matchplay qualities that makes him such a dangerous opponent.

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Their best-of-33 encounter resumes on Friday at 10:00 BST, with the remaining last-four match, between China’s Wu Yize and Northern Ireland’s Mark Allen, starting at 19:00 on Thursday.

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Suspected arson investigation on Sapling Road, Bolton

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Suspected arson investigation on Sapling Road, Bolton

Emergency services were called to the scene on Sapling Road, off Morris Green Way, Morris Green at around 11pm on the evening of Wednesday April 29.

A car appeared to have driven into a wall at the top of the street, and police say they are now investigating a suspected arson in connection with the incident.

Speaking on Thursday, A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “We are investigating a suspected offence of arson on Sapling Road, Bolton yesterday, April 29.

“There is believed to be no wider threat to the public and enquiries remain ongoing.”

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A house fire was reported (Image: Phil Taylor)

No casualties were reported because of the incident but clear damage to the wall and house were visible from outside.

Three fire engines were also called the scene that night to help tackle the house fire and remained there for around two and a half hours.

Crews from Bolton Central, Farnworth and Atherton Fire Stations were all involved in tackling the blaze before the scene was handed over to police for their investigations.

A car appeared to have hit the wall (Image: Phil Taylor)

A Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “At around 11pm on Wednesday April 29, three fire engines from Bolton Central, Farnworth and Atherton were called to a house fire on Sapling Road, Bolton after a car has crashed into a wall.

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“Crews arrived quickly and worked with partners from Greater Manchester Police to make the area safe. No casualties were reported.

“Crews were in attendance for around two and a half hours.”

Officers remained at the scene through the night and into Thursday morning as their investigation were carried out.

Members of the public reported a large police presence still visible around the house early on Thursday morning.

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By later that same morning traffic was able to pass freely across Sapling Road and the surrounding area.

Just before 11.50am on Thursday morning, plainclothes police officers appeared to be leaving the scene on Sapling Road.

Anyone with any further information or concerns can call police on 101 or 999 in the event of an emergency.

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Nicole Kidman wows Chanel Cruise in backless black dress

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Nicole Kidman wows Chanel Cruise in backless black dress
Nicole Kidman is *the* woman of the moment (Picture: Getty Images)

Nicole Kidman turned heads at the Chanel Cruise 2026/27 show on Wednesday.

The luxurious event took place in the sun-soaked south of France — the perfect spot for a collection of ‘relaxed silhouettes with silk satin scarves, ensembles with a nautical spirit,’ and knit looks composed for a ‘sophisticated holiday wardrobe.’

Nicole clearly understood the fashion assignment, looking unreal in a backless ensemble as she posed for photos on a beachfront balcony.

Her entire look consisted of a black fitted maxi dress with a high, straight neck, long sleeves with a slight flare, and a tight slimline skirt that accentuated her tall physique.

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But the star of the show was the back of the dress. Alongside the sophisticated scoop, the piece featured a statement feathered arrangement at the centre of her back. It was held in position by four gold chains, which added extra elegance to the fit.

The dress was also complete with a subtle slit at the bottom of the skirt, which gave more attention to her sling-back black heels.

The Oscar winner kept things classy (Picture: Getty Images)

In terms of hair, makeup and accessories, Nicole wore her signature blonde locks in a tousled low bun with curtain bangs. She kept her skincare simple, with a touch of blush and glossy nude lips, and added a pair of sleek shades to finish the chic aesthetic.

Nicole has been eating and leaving no crumbs with her other fashion statements, too.

Two weeks ago, the 58-year-old rocked up to the Las Vegas CinemaCon red carpet with her Practical Magic co-star, Sandra Bullock, in a sheer black dress.

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Nicole’s take on the LBD featured a (modest) plunging V-neckline, ruffles around the bust and hips, short sleeves, and a sheer skirt with more ruffles at the hem, which showed off her athletic pins.

She wore her locks down this time and in messy waves, with wispy curtain bangs that framed her face.

The back of the dress was the star of the show (Picture: Getty Images)

Nicole has been in the public eye plenty recently, thanks to multiple acting roles and her high-profile split from her husband of 18 years, Keith Urban.

In terms of the latter, the pair announced their separation in September 2025, citing ‘irreconcilable differences.’ However, it was later revealed that Nicole ‘didn’t want’ the divorce and was ‘fighting to save the marriage.’

Nicole and Keith, who met in 2005 at the G’Day USA gala in Los Angeles, an event honouring Australians in Hollywood, share two daughters, Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 15.

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Sunday Rose is currently taking a leaf out of her mother’s style book, while also following in the footsteps of Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid, establishing herself as a successful model.

But in a recent cover interview with Elle Australia, where she talked all things modelling, she inadvertently snubbed her father, Keith. Instead, she gushed about her mother, Nicole, and how she’s her ‘biggest inspiration.’

The feature reportedly left Keith feeling ‘numb,’ and ‘like he doesn’t exist.’

Sunday also seemingly unfollowed her father on Instagram, leaving fans to speculate that there’s tension in the family dynamics.

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