In a primary school classroom, a nine-year old reads aloud to the person next to them. When they stumble over a word, their partner encourages them to try again. Together they discuss what might happen next. But the child isn’t reading to an adult – a teaching assistant or volunteer. Instead, they are reading to a peer in their class. Later they’ll switch jobs, and help their partner out as they read.
What’s more, both children have been taught skills to help them support each other on their journey learning to read. This reading approach is called Peer Assisted Learning Strategies (Pals) developed at Vanderbilt University in the US. It builds on children’s relationships with each other to make learning to read a team endeavour.
The programme now has international reach. We have spent a number of years testing and adapting PALS for use by schools in the UK.
Pupils within a class are paired together, using pupil reading data that shows their current reading level. The aim of the pairing is for there to be a bit of a difference in reading ability between the pupils in the pair. Each pair of children selects the book they want to read, giving them autonomy over their reading material. Pupils benefit from taking turns to coach and read. The children receive support from their partner throughout the session, with their teacher monitoring the interactions in the class.
Advertisement
Pals-UK is a 20-week programme and is delivered three times a week for 35 minutes a session. In the first four weeks, pupils receive training from their teacher to practise the programme’s four activities and the roles of coach and reader.
These four activities are partner reading, where pupils read aloud and receive correction support from their partner; retell, where pupils recap the story just read; paragraph shrinking, where pupils summarise a paragraph; and prediction relay, where pupils predict what is going to happen in the next half page of the story.
Our recent research, carried out in more than 100 English primary schools, has shown that this approach improves reading attainment. An evaluation led by Manchester Metropolitan University and funded by the Education Endowment Foundation examined the success of the programme. It concluded that pupils who received Pals-UK gained, on average, two months’ additional progress in reading compared to pupils in schools not participating in the programme. It also highlighted the low cost of the approach. With Pals-UK pupils receiving extensive practise with both fluency and comprehension.
This study not only showed that this specific approach works, but also highlighted more broadly the value of combining clear instructions and lots of support and practice for both reading fluency and use of comprehension strategies. Teachers praised the structured nature of the programme, the resources and support.
Advertisement
However, our study found that in both the schools carrying out the Pals-UK programme and the control schools which did not, children’s motivation to read declined. This reflects other research that has found children’s motivation to read declining as they progress through school.
Children choose the books they’d like to read together. wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock
On the other hand, 55% of teachers reported that the programme had enhanced a culture of reading for enjoyment. Pupils were engaging in informal book talk with their friends. And children particularly enjoyed trying to summarise paragraphs in as few words as they could, treating it as a fun challenge.
Adapting the approach
We made some changes to the US programme. Reading programmes like this cannot be assumed to translate from one school, one area or country successfully without consideration of the local society, culture and policy landscape .
The US version has an integrated competitive, points-based motivational framework. We removed this for the UK following feedback from pupils and teachers, as it did not align to UK classroom practices. Instead, teachers and pupils wanted to use verbal praise to motivate. We also created video resources and extended training to support teachers’ knowledge about the evidence the programme is based on, as well as the practicalities of using the approach in their classrooms.
Advertisement
We developed guidance to help teachers to use the shared experience of reading, a range of diverse texts and book choice to help pupils to develop a personal interest in engaging with reading.
The success of Pals-UK could not have been achieved without the feedback and input received from teachers throughout the trialling process. This crucial evidence helped us to understand what adaptations and support was necessary to make the programme work for them, as well as their pupils. This enabled us to adapt the programme for UK schools without losing the benefits of the research-informed elements.
We are now planning a new, even larger trial of Pals-UK. In this trial we are aiming to understand how the scheme works at scale.
It includes reducing bureaucracy for farmers and reworking the controversial sustainable farming scheme
Wales’ new minister in charge of farming and the environment, Llyr Gruffydd, has spelt out his priorities in his first speech to the Senedd since being appointed by Rhun ap Iorwerth.
Advertisement
The minister for rural resilience and sustainability opened his speech saying he would start with explaining his plans for climate and nature. “I’d like to start with our commitment to take action on climate and nature, not only because of its environmental importance, which is clear to all, but also because of its central importance to the future prosperity, health and resilience of Wales in the future. Clean air, clean water, healthy soils and thriving ecosystems are not optional extras.
“They support public health, they protect communities and create the conditions for Wales to develop sustainably.”
There was plenty more we learnt too about his plans in government:
1. Net Zero by 2040
He told the Senedd that work has already started on an “ambitious climate and nature action plan”, focused on a practical pathway to net zero by 2040 and substantive nature recovery by 2050, “shaped by the realities people and communities are facing across Wales”.
Advertisement
The UK government has a target of reaching net zero by 2050 while the Welsh Labour government had a target for the public sector to reach Net Zero by 2030 and Wales generally by 2035 as part of the Co-operation Agreement with Labour. Rhun ap Iorwerth had admitted during the campaign that that timescale wasn’t realistic.
2. A new regulator for water
He said: “We’re also committed to driving forward water reform, including plans for a new Welsh economic water regulator with the powers needed to drive investment, to reduce pollution and to deliver long-term improvements.”
That was something in their manifesto too.
3. New flooding group
He said in the first 100 days of the government – which ends at the end of August – they will outline the terms of reference for a new flood resilience and preparedness forum.
Advertisement
“Flooding is already, as we know, affecting homes, businesses and communities as part of a wider pattern of climate pressures, from more intense rainfall and storms to drought, heat and pressures on water, land and infrastructure. We need a joined-up approach to preparedness and improved long-term resilience.
“This includes catchment-scale and nature-based solutions that reduce risk, that protect communities, support nature recovery and help Wales adapt to the climate impacts that we’re already experiencing,” he said.
4. Funding to restore coal tips
The minister said they will continue to argue Wales should get extra funding from the UK Government to restore coal tips in Wales, something the former Labour administration had argued too.
“We’ll also continue to press the UK Government on environmental justice for coalfield communities, including the funding needed to restore coal tips and contaminated land. Communities living with the legacy of Wales’s industrial past should not be left to carry that risk alone. We will take a long-term, co-ordinated approach to secure these sites, safeguard communities and, of course, unlock their future potential,” said Mr Gruffydd.
Advertisement
5. Changing the Sustainable Farming Scheme
This scheme, the source of so much worry to farmers and the cause of a huge Senedd protest in the last term, will, he said, be “refined”.
He said he always wants to ensure “a multi-annual budget for the sustainable farming scheme” to give certainty.
6. New TB programme
Mr Gruffydd said: “Bovine TB, as we all know, remains one of the most significant and persistent challenges facing agriculture in Wales.
Advertisement
“We will refresh the TB eradication programme, building on strong foundations, but recognising that a step change is needed to meet our ambition of a TB-free Wales by 2041. Building on Wales’s already strong record on animal welfare, we will also bring forward a new animal health and welfare plan, including new regulations for animal welfare establishments.”
7. Reduced bureaucracy
Mr Gruffydd said that he has ordered a review by his Plaid Cymru colleague John Davies into excess bureaucracy which impacts the time farmers can spend on the farm. “I want to decrease the bureaucratic burden on family farms, making a real difference to the time that is spent on complicated and duplicated processes—time that could otherwise be spent managing stock, improving productivity or, of course, planning for the future.”
8. New food strategy
he said that he will be championing Welsh fisheries, strengthening the system that brings food to people across Wales via a new national food strategy for Wales, safeguarding food supply chains, improving food literacy, strengthening supply chains and supporting our food and drink industry to grow, building a reputation for high-quality, sustainably produced food.
Like Jalen Brunson, the guy marching through Manhattan with the Larry O’Brien Trophy in his arms last week during a joyous parade celebration. And Willis Reed, the guy who limped into Game 7 of the NBA Finals to lift the Knicks to their first championship.
So when the NBA draft resumes Wednesday night with the Knicks on the clock, every team will have hope of finding someone who can be a key piece of a title team.
The Knicks hold the No. 31 pick that was acquired via trades when teams and some players return to Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The first round, which began with Washington selecting AJ Dybantsa, finished late Tuesday night.
Advertisement
In a much different NBA with a different draft format, Reed was the No. 8 pick in the 1964 draft, which made him the first pick of the second round. The Hall of Famer went on to lead the Knicks to championships in 1970 and 1973 and was the NBA Finals MVP both times.
Brunson was the No. 33 pick in the 2018 draft, taken early in the second round by the Dallas Mavericks. The Knicks signed him as a free agent in 2022 and the franchise was on the rise ever since, culminating with their five-game victory over the San Antonio Spurs earlier this month when Brunson was MVP of the series.
Life’s better on the Llŷn with its picturesque beaches to explore, from family and dog-friendly coves to surfing hotspots
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Advertisement
Who needs to go abroad when we have plenty of lovely places in Wales to soak up the glorious sunshine? One of my favourite spots is a popular peninsula that is loved by celebs like Bradley Cooper, Coleen Rooney, and Molly Mae.
The Llŷn Peninsula, or Pen Llŷn, is located in northwest Wales and is packed with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and sandy beaches.
It’s home to lots of coastal hotspots like Abersoch, where various celebrities have holidayed, including Molly Mae, who shared some special moments from her trip there.
Staying in a beach house on the seafront, she and a friend, plus her daughter Bambi, had their own steps down to the sand and views straight out over the dreamy coastal landscape, which she described as “gorgeous.”
It’s easy to see why this scenic corner of Wales is a magnet for the rich and famous, surrounded by the sparkling, clear waters of the Irish Sea on one side and Cardigan Bay on the other. This area of Wales is a perfect alternative for a holiday abroad, where you’ll find plenty of activities, cafes and pubs.
There are Iron Age fort remains and islands to discover, sweeping stretches of sandy beaches, and plenty of cute coastal villages and historic sites to visit.
Advertisement
If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best things to do in the Llŷn Peninsula and follow me on TikTok for more destination guides and travel advice.
Discover sandy beaches and coves
The peninsula is home to some of Wales’ most picturesque beaches. There is a range of sandy beaches to explore, from family and dog-friendly coves to surfing hotspots.
Llanbedrog beach, which stretches for over a mile, is now owned by the National Trust, while Porth Neigwl beach, also known as Hell’s Mouth, is very popular with surfers and water sports fans.
Advertisement
Traeth Porthor has a special feature, which is why it is known by another, more commonly used name: ‘Whistling Sands’. It is popular with so-called “sound tourists” for the unusual ‘whistling noise’ the granules make underfoot when you walk over them.
There are only two European beaches where you can experience this off-beat phenomenon and listen to the rolling waves and squeaking sand.
It’s not really a whistle, North Wales Live reports, unless perhaps the sound carries on the wind. It’s more like a squeak, like cleaning a drying window.
No one is quite sure why Porthor’s sands make their distinctive noise. The prevailing theory seems to be that the sand has to have certain features. They must be spherical, with no sharp edges, and contain quartz and silica.
The sand must also have just the right humidity level for the best results. Aside from squeaky sand, Porthor is the perfect place for swimming, a coastal stroll or a picnic. For our guide to the best beaches in Wales, go here.
Known as the ‘Welsh Riviera,’ Abersoch, on the southern part of the Llŷn, is widely known for its sandy beaches, internationally recognised sailing waters, and a small high street filled with trendy bars, restaurants, big brands, and independent shops.
This coastal bolthole is also renowned for its water sports, especially paddleboarding. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of resident dolphins slicing through the clear waters.
Advertisement
The sheltered bay provides ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced paddleboarders, and the village hosts several events and competitions throughout the year, attracting enthusiasts from across the UK.
You can book a SUP session at Abersoch Watersports, where expert instructors will guide you around the beautiful coastline, pointing out marine life and coastal features.
New to paddleboarding? You can dive into the #SUP life and learn to paddleboard with their ISA-qualified instructors using the top-of-the-range Red Paddle Co paddleboards.
Advertisement
You’ll be coached in the bay and learn correct paddle techniques to build confidence and develop your SUP skills so you can get out of the water and start looking for dolphins.
One of the town’s other main draws is the large sandy beach, which the AA previously named one of the ‘best seaside destinations’.
The AA described Abersoch Beach as a picturesque Welsh location. “The top place goes to this sandy beach, which is dog-friendly and also manned by lifeguards.
“There are two nearby tourist attractions: the Porth y Swnt Interpretation Centre and Nant Gwrtheyrn, which is home to the National Welsh Language and Heritage Centre.”
Advertisement
Nearby is Harbour Beach, a strip of sand on the River Soch between the harbour and Warren Beach. If you fancy a bit of a challenge, Porth Ceiriad is a secluded beach that can be tricky to find.
Have a drink at one of the best beach bars in the world
One of Wales’s most famous seaside pubs, Ty Coch Inn, is located in Porthdinllaen, a tiny village on the peninsula’s northern coast.
Voted one of the best beach bars in the world, it sits right on the sand with sweeping views of the Irish Sea and is one of the most incredible places for a pint in Wales.
Advertisement
Accessible only by foot, this historic pub offers glorious views of the turbulent Irish Sea and serves a decent range of local ales, making it a must-visit seaside spot.
Owner Stuart Webley attributes the pub’s success to “location, location, location” and “a slightly eccentric landlord.”
Stuart also says the “good food, good beer, beachside location, friendly staff and friendly locals” are all part of the establishment’s success.
You can park at the chargeable National Trust car park at the bottom of Lon Golff, or at the Morfa Nefyn Golf Club car park.
Advertisement
Go surfing in Aberdaron
For surfers looking for breaks in north Wales, Aberdaron is a brilliant surfing spot on the Llŷn Peninsula.
The village of Aberdaron itself has an excellent pasty shop, a newsagent, a pub, and a couple of lovely places to eat.
If you want peace and quiet, Aberdaron is a great shout, mainly because it is located deep in the peninsula and is not the most accessible place in the world.
Advertisement
The little beach doesn’t have the biggest waves in Wales, and more seasoned surfers will prefer Hell’s Mouth, which is only a few minutes away. However, the little waves are enough for beginners to get started.
The waves can suit all standards when the swell is bigger, and the wind isn’t so harsh.
It can be slightly bleak when the sun isn’t shining, and a harsh wind can sometimes blow across the peninsula. When the wind drops, explore the hills and countryside around Aberdaron and Uwchmynydd.
Walk the Wales Coast Path
Traverse the rugged coastlines of Wales on the arresting Wales Coast Path. This long-distance footpath passes through blue-flag beaches, nature reserves, fishing towns, and secluded bays, offering hikers sweeping coastline views.
The Wales Coast Path connects some of the beautiful, sandy beaches of the Llŷn Peninsula, and there’s a superb selection of coastal walks that can easily be completed in a day.
Sometimes called the ‘Land’s End of Wales’, this quiet part of Wales embodies everything that makes the Wales Coast Path so enticing for hikers. The coastal walks traverse undeveloped and unspoiled landscapes rich in history, Welsh culture and wildlife.
Over 180 kilometres of remote coastal walking on the Llŷn Peninsula can be broken down into nine easy day walks. Some routes include Aberdaron to Hell’s Mouth, Criccieth to Porthmadog and Porth Colmon to Aberdaron.
Advertisement
Walking sections of the path is an exciting way to explore the coves, marinas, beaches and towns of Wales whilst having a low environmental impact on our beguiling landscapes.
Plenty of hidden coves and bays can also be accessed on the coast, where you can enjoy a glorious sunset.
Visit Criccieth Castle and Harlech Castle
On the peninsula’s southern coast, the magical ruin of Criccieth Castle perches atop a rocky headland overlooking the village and beach. This spectacular coastal castle was built and destroyed by powerful Welsh princes and is a poignant reminder of Wales’s complex and turbulent history.
Advertisement
Today, its dramatic ruins continue to attract visitors, offering a glimpse into the medieval conflicts that shaped the region.
Wander further south down the coast, and Harlech Castle is waiting to impress you. This handsome castle has arguably one of the most dramatic settings, crowning a rocky crag with a sheer drop down to the flat plains below.
Designated a World Heritage Site, Harlech Castle has experienced many sieges and battles and was once the centre of power of Owain Glyndwr, Prince of Wales.
Once you’ve done that, there are many intriguing ancient sites to visit in the region, but maybe one of the most popular is Tre’r Ceiri hill fort near Trefor on the northern coast.
Advertisement
The fort is one of Britain’s best and most complete Iron Age hill forts. The remains of gateways, ramparts, and roundhouses can still be seen.
Discover Celtic Heritage on Ynys Enlli
The history and Heritage of Llŷn are deeply intertwined with its landscape. This beautiful area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Neolithic tombs, Iron Age hill forts, and early Christian sites scattered across the peninsula.
The region was also an important centre for the spread of Christianity in Wales, with numerous early medieval churches and monastic sites, such as Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli), a place of pilgrimage for centuries.
Advertisement
Found two miles off the Llŷn Peninsula in northwest Wales, Enlli can only be reached by organised boat trips.
Ynys Enlli’s history stretches back thousands of years, and it is known as the “Island of 20,000 Saints” due to the purported number of saints buried there.
Archaeological evidence shows that humans have inhabited the island for at least 4,000 years. In the 6th century, the island became a focal point for the Celtic Christian Church when St. Cadfan founded a monastery there.
The island’s remote and off-grid lifestyle only adds to its allure. It has no modern amenities such as Wi-Fi or regular electricity, and cold, fresh water is drawn directly from wells. The Bardsey Island Trust, established in 1977, now manages the island, focusing on conservation and promoting its historical and natural significance.
Advertisement
Spend a day at dreamy Portmeirion
Built into the cliffs south of Porthmadog and with its own private peninsula on the stunning southern shoreline of Eryri (Snowdonia), the Italianate-style tourist village of Portmeirion really is a thing of beauty.
Anyone who has ever visited the quirky coastal village of Portmeirion, or even just seen the striking pictures of its distinctive architecture, sea views, and colourful buildings, will probably not be surprised to learn that travel publisher Lonely Planet previously named it a must-visit place.
You might recognise this distinctive village from the popular, cult classic 1960s television programme The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan, as Portmeirion was used extensively as the location backdrop for the 17-episode series.
Advertisement
Alongside its unique architectural heritage, the private, ticketed site features two swanky hotels, self-catering cottages, an indulgent spa, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and an authentic Italian-style gelateria. You can read my review here.
Steve Clarke’s side face five-time world champions Brazil in Miami as they look to seal a place in the knockouts
Scotland are looking to seal their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup, and their final group match could hardly be tougher as they face five-time champions Brazil in Miami.
Advertisement
Steve Clarke’s side kicked off their first World Cup campaign in 28 years with a 1-0 win over Haiti in the opening round, but they were then beaten by the same scoreline against Morocco. They currently sit in third position in Group C with three points, just behind the Brazilians and Moroccans, who are first and second respectively with four points.
With this summer’s competition expanding to 48 sides, a whopping 32 teams will make it through to the knockout stages, meaning it is in fact more difficult to be eliminated than qualify.
While the top two teams in each group go through automatically, eight of the 12 third-placed teams at the end of the group stage will also go through to the round of 32, with Scotland currently in a strong position to do just that.
A first-ever win against Brazil on Wednesday night would see Clarke’s side finish in the top two in their group and go through automatically, while a draw would also all but seal their place in the knockout rounds.
Advertisement
Even a defeat would not mean that Scotland’s World Cup journey was necessarily over, as they currently have the second-best record out of the teams currently in third place. With three points after two games and a goal difference of zero, they are level with Sweden, who top the third-place table.
But while they are sitting comfortably for now, a heavy defeat against Brazil could dramatically change the story for Scotland, as their goal difference would take a sizeable hit.
As the BBC reports, Opta statistics show that while a team finishing third with a goal difference of zero has a 95% chance of progressing to the knockout stage, this drops to 84% for a difference of -1, to 63% for -2, 42% for -3 and 27% for -4.
Advertisement
If they lose, Scotland are set to face an anxious wait for the rest of the week, as they may not have their place in the knockout stages confirmed until Sunday morning, when the final round of group stage matches are set to be played.
To put them at a further disadvantage, the third-placed teams playing later in the week will have a clearer picture of what results they need to qualify, and as a result may look to play for a draw or ‘park the bus’ in order to defend their goal difference.
In summary, if Scotland lose, they will need as many groups as possible to end with two teams finishing on fewer than three points. Here is a breakdown of the results the Tartan Army need to be mindful of over the next week.
Group A – For Scotland, the best case scenario in this group would be for Mexico to beat the Czech Republic and for South Korea to defeat South Africa, as that would leave the team in third on one point. However, the worst case scenario would be wins for South Africa and the Czech Republic, as the team in third would then be on four points.
Advertisement
Group B – Wednesday night’s clash between Bosnia-Herzegovina and Qatar could have an impact on Scotland’s knockout hopes, as a draw would leave the third-placed team in their group on no more than two points. However, a win either way would see the third-placed team on four points.
Group D – With Turkey already out, either Australia or Paraguay will finish in third. The two sides meet in their final game, and a win for either team would mean the side finishing third would do so on three points. However, a draw would leave the third-placed side on four points.
Group E – Ecuador and Curacao currently sit in third and fourth respectively with one point apiece. They will take on Germany and Ivory Coast respectively in their final games, and Scotland will be hoping for them both to lose. However, if they can spring a couple of surprises, the group may end with the third-placed team on four points.
Group F – A heavy defeat for Sweden against second-placed Japan could see Scotland move to the top of the third-placed table – but a point for Sweden would leave the third-placed side in the group on at least four points.
Advertisement
Group G – All Scottish eyes will be on the showdown between Egypt and Iran, with an Egyptian win set to guarantee that the team finishing third in the group will do so with fewer than three points.
Group H – A Spanish win against Uruguay would ensure that the team in third could only finish on a maximum of two points.
Group I – The most favourable result as far as Scotland are concerned would be a draw between Senegal and Iran, which would see the team in third finish on just one point.
Group J – With Austria and Algeria currently sitting in second and third respectively on three points, the best case scenario for Scotland would be a heavy victory for one of those teams when they meet each other in their final group game. The worst case scenario would be a draw in that game, as it would mean the third-placed team would finish on four points.
Advertisement
Group K – Uzbekistan and DR Congo will meet in their final group game, and Scotland will want to avoid a win for the latter, as that would put them third on four points. A win for Uzbekistan, however, would be ideal for Clarke’s side, as it would see them finish third on three points but likely with a poor goal difference, which currently sits at -7.
Group L – The best case scenario for Scotland would be for Ghana to record a big win against Croatia and for Panama to fail to beat England, as this would ensure the third-placed team finishing on three points with a poor goal difference. However, if Croatia are able to gain a point or more against Ghana, the third-placed finisher would do so on four points.
Fairgoers are set to enjoy some exciting rides, games, stalls, food, and drink as a renowned fair returns
A famous Cambridge fair is set to return for its 813th year. The renowned Midsummer Fair will be returning to Midsummer Common this week from the evening of Wednesday, June 24, until Sunday, June 28.
Advertisement
The fair, now in its 813th year, is one of the largest gatherings in the Travelling Communities’ calendar, according to Cambridge City Council. Attendees can enjoy some thrilling fairground rides, games, stalls, food, drink, and more.
Organised by the Showmen’s Guild, this year’s fair will take place from around 6pm. A party including the Mayor of Cambridge, Councillor Maria Cleminson, will form a procession to the fair from Wesley Methodist Church, ahead of the traditional distribution of coins to children.
It is forecast to be a very hot and sunny few days, so fairgoers have been advised by the city council to wear sun protection, drink plenty of fluids, and keep to shaded areas when possible.
The council is encouraging visitors and residents to plan their trips in and around the city during the fair, using public transport where possible, especially across the weekend when it is expected to be at its busiest. It said that large events like the Midsummer Fair can make the city “busier than usual”.
At the corporate committee, Castlereagh South Alliance councillor Jamie Harpur said:”I want to be very clear from the outset, this is not about being anti-American. It is important we say that plainly.
“This proposal in front of us is not about trade, investment, or cultural exchange.
“It is about marking the independence of another country through the illumination of a council building and that raises serious issues, both in terms of policy and precedent.
A letter from Communities Minister Gordon Lyons (DUP) before the chamber invited the council to light up one of its prominent civic centres marking the American celebrations “helping to showcase Northern Ireland as globally connected and forward-looking”.
However, the chamber heard that colours to support the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence had not been provided in line with illumination policy.
The request for the light up had also been made after the council applications for civic centre illuminations closed in October 2025.
Councillor Harpur added:”If we approve illuminating a civic building to mark the independence of one country, we open the door to many others.
Advertisement
“This proposal is being framed as a simple civic gesture, but it does not exist in a vacuum.
“There is a clear attempt here by some to align themselves politically with the current US administration.
“And that is an administration whose actions have had real-world consequences, impacting global stability, driving up costs, and undermining international norms.
“Those consequences are felt here too, including pressures on businesses and households.
Advertisement
“So let’s not pretend this is entirely neutral.”
In 2022, the council declined to light up Lagan Valley Island civic centre for Irish language campaigners and in support war torn Ukraine due to council criteria and policy.
Other recent light up concerns were seen in 2024, when the council’s new illumination policy was criticised for not including the July Twelfth celebrations despite St Patrick’s Day being listed as an annual light up.
Advertisement
Downshire West DUP Alderman Allan Ewart said: “This is a one off, a 250th anniversary doesn’t happen every year.
Antonia Evans was accused of making the offensive remarks to the female officer on Saturday, April 19, last year.
Appearing at a plea hearing in the case, at Durham Crown Court, on May 19 last year, she denied the allegation and a trial date was fixed for July 27, this year.
But the case came back before the court today (Tuesday, June 23) when defence counsel, Jordan Parkinson, asked for the charge to be put to her client once more.
Advertisement
This time Evans pleaded guilty and Judge Nathan Adams said the trial date next month could now be vacated from the court list.
Judge Adams said due to a lack of recent convictions the sentencing judge would probably be assisted by preparation of a background report on the defendant by the Probation Service.
The new shop will open in Cambridge’s Grand Arcade in July
A new women’s clothing store is set to open in a Cambridgeshopping centre. Cambridge’s Grand Arcade shopping centre, situated in Corn Exchange Street, is welcoming a new shop to the centre.
Advertisement
Nobody’s Child is set to open in July. Announcing the new opening on its TikTok, Grand Arcade posted a video showing a sneak peek at the front of the shop with the caption: “Consider this your sign to clear some wardrobe space.
“Nobody’s Child will open in Grand Arcade later this summer. From playful prints to timeless styles, get ready to find your new favourite dress!”
A Nobody’s Child spokesperson added: “Womenswear retailer, Nobody’s Child, is delighted to announce the opening of its new store in Grand Arcade, Cambridge, in July 2026. The 1,000 square foot store is the brand’s tenth standalone boutique, and the third opening for 2026.”
Huge crowds are expected to pack Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Friday night as Ibiza Classics returns, with standing tickets sold out for the seafront show.
The night will see DJ and broadcaster Pete Tong back on the Scarborough stage with The Essential Orchestra, reworking iconic Ibiza anthems into a full live orchestral production.
Pete Tong brings Ibiza Classics to Scarborough this Friday (Image: Supplied). (Image: Supplied)
His last visit in 2023 was hailed as a “sensational” sell-out, and promoters are promising another high-energy start to the weekend as big beats meet sea breezes and summer skies.
From the sun-soaked shores of Ibiza to some of the world’s biggest stages, Tong’s Ibiza Classics project has helped redefine how dance music can be experienced live. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Tong has been a leading champion of dance music, pushing boundaries, breaking new acts and taking club culture to mainstream audiences.
His contribution was recognised in 2021 with the prestigious Music Industry Trusts Award, honouring his impact on both music and broadcasting.
With the venue exposed to the elements, organisers are reminding concert-goers that comfort will be weather dependent and advising people to dress for all conditions.
Skunk Anansie rock Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Saturday (June 20) (Image: CUFFE & TAYLOR) (Image: CUFFE & TAYLOR)
Earlier this year, he marked the 10th anniversary of Ibiza Classics with four sold-out nights at the Royal Albert Hall alongside The Essential Orchestra and such greats as Becky Hill – who is performing after the races at York Racecourse this Saturday, June 27 – Barbara Tucker, Damian Lazarus, David Morales, Paul Oakenfold, and Seth Troxler.
The show follows the success of a series of concerts that have already been staged this summer at Scarborough Open Air Theatre, kicking off with Rick Astley and including Madness, The Kooks, Anastacia, and nineties rock bands Garbage and Skunk Anansie.
Advertisement
Last summer’s run, including Will Smith – pictured on stage at Scarborough Open Air Theatre – helped deliver a big boost to the local economy. (Image: Cuffe & Taylor)
Sales figures for this summer’s TK Maxx presents Scarborough Open Air Theatre series has beaten the previous record by 35,000 tickets – more than 150,000 tickets had been sold by March this year.
More than one million tickets have been sold for shows at the North Yorkshire Council-owned venue since it was refurbished and re-opened to the public in 2010.
Last summer’s run of 18 shows boosted the local economy by £8.8m with headliners including Will Smith, Gary Barlow and The Smashing Pumpkins.
Pre-orders of GTA 6 are live in Australia now, the second major country to get access to pre-orders today following New Zealand. In New Zealand, the price in NZ Dollars was revealed to be $139.95 for the standard edition or $175.95 for the Ultimate Edition. That’s an equivalent in Great British Pounds of exactly £60 and £75.44 respectively.
However, once converted into US Dollars, the prices makes a lot more sense. The equivalent is $79.02 and $99.35 – much closer to the announced price points revealed by Rockstar today.
In Australia, The cost is $129.95 and $159.95 respectively – which translates to a seemingly more expensive tag for our friends Down Under when it comes to the Ultimate Edition. In USD, it’s a whopping $110.38.
Advertisement
But when you remember that the majority of prices in the US are advertised as pre-tax costs, it makes a little bit more sense after all. If this trend continues, however, the GBP equivalent of the original prices would be £60.75 and £75.93 – which, let’s face it, would be much lower than we expected.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login