Ireland secured a crucial 27-17 bonus-point victory over Wales in Dublin to keep their Six Nations title hopes alive, with head coach Andy Farrell praising Wales’ performance despite their 15th consecutive championship defeat

Andy Farrell lavished praise on “tremendous” Wales following Ireland’s hard-fought 27-17 bonus-point victory in Dublin, which kept their faint Guinness Six Nations title hopes alive.

After ruthlessly dismantling England in the third round, Farrell’s men were denied another commanding performance by resilient opponents seeking their first championship triumph since 2023.

Ireland held a slender 12-10 advantage at the interval following Wales prop Rhys Carre’s excellent individual try, which came after Jacob Stockdale and Jack Crowley had crossed for the hosts.

Jack Conan and Jamie Osborne touched down after the break, sandwiching a score from Welsh flanker James Botham, as Ireland edged through to secure a Triple Crown clash with Scotland next weekend.

Ireland boss Farrell said: “I actually thought Wales did fantastically well to stay in the game.

“They played tough, they hung on in there and kept it close on the scoreboard. I thought they were tremendous tonight.

“It was a proper Test match and for us to come away with a bonus-point win, we’d certainly take that with how the game unfolded because it was a different game to the game we played last time around.

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“We weren’t playing rugby on the front foot because of how well they defended.

“I thought they were excellent in contact and at set-piece and they can be really proud of their performance.”

While Ireland remain in the hunt for championship honours, table-topping France can secure the title with a match to spare by defeating Scotland with a bonus point at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Wales, meanwhile, will attempt to avoid finishing bottom for the third consecutive Six Nations when they welcome Italy on the final weekend, having slumped to a 15th straight championship loss despite a commendable showing at the Aviva Stadium.

“I thought we came up against a rock-solid defence who kept knocking us back and we should have been just a little bit more patient at times and I thought we’d get our reward from that,” said Farrell.

“But most of the credit of how that Test match unfolded has to go to Wales because I thought they were outstanding in the way they went about the fight.

“It was a dogged Test match and that’s how these type of Test matches should be.”

Wales head coach Steve Tandy believed his side merited ending their prolonged Six Nations winless run following arguably the finest display of his reign.

The visitors opened the tournament with comprehensive defeats to England and France before enduring a heartbreaking 26-23 reverse to Scotland last time out.

“(I’ve) massive pride in the boys and the shift they put in,” said Tandy. “The physicality they left out on the field was outstanding.

“Disappointed we didn’t get something from the game for the group because I felt we deserved something by the fight they showed, a lot of great skill out there as well.

“This group, they’re unbelievable to work with, they’re always learning, they’re growing.

“I know it’s tough for people, everyone want us to win, but I think the way the group are developing and then when you think about the start we had in England and where we’ve come to, this performance tells you so much about the group.”

Daryl Hannah has broken her silence on her portrayal in Ryan Murphy’s new series.

Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette follows the whirlwind romance and high-profile relationship between the attorney and his publicist wife before their tragic deaths in 1999.

Actor and activist Hannah, who was in an on-and-off relationship with Kennedy for about five years until 1994, has remained famously discreet about the relationship in the decades following his death.

However, in a scathing guest essay for The New York Times, Hannah slammed Murphy’s characterization of her in Love Story, saying it “is not even a remotely accurate representation of my life, my conduct or my relationship with John.

“Storytelling requires tension. It often requires an obstacle. But a real, living person is not a narrative device,” she wrote, suggesting that tearing down one woman to uplift another was “textbook misogyny” and branding the show “tragedy-exploiting”.

“The actions and behaviors attributed to me are untrue,” Hannah asserted. “I have never used cocaine in my life or hosted cocaine-fueled parties. I have never pressured anyone into marriage. I have never desecrated any family heirloom or intruded upon anyone’s private memorial. I have never planted any story in the press. I never compared Jacqueline Onassis’ death to a dog’s.

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“It’s appalling to me that I even have to defend myself against a television show. These are not creative embellishments of personality. They are assertions about conduct — and they are false.”

Hannah went on to describe the consequences of the series, including the “hostile” and “threatening” messages she’s received from viewers who have believed the portrayal.

“Real names are not fictional tools. They belong to real lives,” she wrote.

The Independent has contacted Murphy for comment.

Love Story features Paul Anthony Kelly as JFK Jr, Sarah Pidgeon as Carolyn Bessette, Grace Gummer as Caroline Kennedy, and Naomi Watts as former first lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis.

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Hannah — married to singer Neil Young since 2018 — is far from the only person to have spoken out about Love Story. The limited series is the latest controversial project from Murphy, who has faced accusations in the past of glamorizing serial killers and profiting off tragedy.

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JFK Jr.’s nephew, Jack Schlossberg, has also released a statement criticisting the anthology series, saying: “Lately, my news feed has been filled with pictures of my uncle, John F. Kennedy Jr., a great man. For those wondering whether his family was ever consulted, or has anything to do with the new show being made about him, the answer is no, and there’s really not much we can do.”

Schlossberg then added his concern that Murphy was “profiting off of it in a grotesque way.”

Murphy responded to Schlossberg’s comment at the time by saying, “I thought it was an odd choice to be mad about your relative that you really don’t remember.”

People’s Postcode Lottery players in Greater Manchester have helped raise more than £7 million in the last decade for international school feeding charity Mary’s Meals. 

Funding more than 39 million meals in 16 countries to date.

Mary’s Meals, founded in the Scottish Highlands, serves daily meals to children in some of the world’s poorest communities, encouraging school attendance and supporting education as a route out of poverty.

Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It’s fantastic to know that for a decade our players have supported the essential work of Mary’s Meals – and have now raised an incredible £7 million to help children across the globe access nutritious meals.

“This funding helps children in some of the most underserved communities go to school well-fed, ready to learn and full of hope for a brighter future.”

The partnership has supported 478,968 children with daily school meals, with funding initially focused on specific countries such as Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Zambia, Madagascar, Ethiopia and South Sudan.

It also strengthened Mary’s Meals through key organisational development projects.

In recent years, funding has been provided on an unrestricted basis, allowing Mary’s Meals to allocate resources where they are most needed.

Gemma Love, philanthropy and institutional partnerships manager at Mary’s Meals, said: “We are incredibly grateful to People’s Postcode Lottery players in Greater Manchester, whose ongoing support is helping us reach more children than ever before with a daily school meal that encourages learning, brings hope and changes lives.

“Seeing the difference this support makes for children and communities inspires us to keep going and to reach even more children in the years ahead.”

The school feeding programme addresses a range of challenges, including barriers to education and gender inequality.

Girls make up half of the children supported by Mary’s Meals, yet 119 million girls worldwide remain out of school.

For many children, the promise of a meal at school is life-changing.

Twelve-year-old Efigénia, who attends Tindzawene Primary School in Mozambique, said: “With school meals, I feel good because even with a lack of food at home, here at school I have a meal and I can study.”

Mary’s Meals marked a major milestone at the end of last year, now serving meals to more than three million children every school day.

For more information, visit: marysmeals.org.uk. 

Two fire crews were called to the scene in Stublowe Place, off Hull Road, at 11.40pm on Friday (March 6).

They found the property “heavily smoke logged” after a fire on a hob inside, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said.

A service spokesperson added: “Crews ventilated the property using a positive pressure ventilation fan and gave advice to the occupant.”

Make sure you get out and about to make the most of that sunshine

The sun is back just in time for the weekend and since we haven’t seen much of it lately, make sure you get out and about this weekend to make the most of it.

According to the Met Office, the weekend will be a mix of patchy cloud and some sunshine, with high temperatures of 12°C forecast on Saturday. Cloud will drift in from the west through the day but eastern areas will see plenty of sunny spells.

The weather outlook for Sunday sees some bright spells in places in the morning before turning cloudier later on with the chance of some light rain in places.

READ MORE: Northern Ireland in for hot spell this week as Met Office says temperatures to hit 18CREAD MORE: Rat activity shows significant increase after hot summer and recent rain

Here’s what to expect for the coming days in Northern Ireland:

Saturday:

It will remain dry on Saturday. Feeling a touch milder again with some bright spells or hazy sunshine. Quite windy in the north and west. Maximum temperature 12°C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Variable cloud and bright spells on Sunday and Monday with occasional spells of rain. Cloudy and windy with rain on Tuesday.

UK long range weather forecast: Wednesday 11 March – Friday 20 March

The first part of this period will continue to see the UK located at the interface between high pressure across Europe and low pressure over the North Atlantic. As such, western areas will likely see spells of rain at times, along with stronger winds, whereas eastern parts should see more in the way of drier interludes, though even here, some rain is possible from time to time.

Towards the middle of March, there is a signal for unsettled conditions to perhaps become more widespread, with all parts seeing a higher chance of rain and stronger winds. Throughout, temperatures should overall be a little above average for most areas.

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The nursey works closely with parents to keep them updated on their child’s development.

A nursery in Cambridgeshire has been rated strong in all of the categories assessed by OFSTED. The Day Nursery in Peterborough has been praised for the “very good progress” children make during their time there.

The Day Nursery was inspected by the regulator on Wednesday, January 14, with the positive report published on Monday, March 2. The report said: “Teaching is highly effective across all rooms of the nursery. Staff know the children extremely well. They take the time to help them settle and build loving, trusting relationships from the start. Staff working with babies are highly skilled and trained.”

It continued: “They understand baby development, including the importance of developing and strengthening children’s large and small muscles. They give them space to crawl, climb safely and provide equipment to help them pull themselves up to standing. Staff maintain eye-contact when talking to babies and repeat words to begin building their vocabulary.”

Jade Smith, the Early Years Manager, said: “I would just like to say how incredibly proud I am of our team, we have previously been rated outstanding three times and have remained committed to delivering the highest standards achievable.

“A special mention also needs to go to our nursery owner Lynne Blyth who dedicates her time fighting for the best outcomes for all local nurseries by being involved in local and national Early Years groups and forums.”

As well as developing a good relationship with the children, the report said staff also help them to “develop a secure knowledge of mathematical concepts” by using real life examples and activities. The report added that children are able to follow instructions “very well” and show ‘impressive’ levels of concentration and focus.

Mealtimes are also used to further children’s development with children from the age of two years old serving their own food, according to regulators. The children “highly benefit” from routines at the nursery, including time outdoors and yoga, music, and movement sessions.

On the leadership and governance of the nursery, the report detailed: “Leaders appreciate and value their staff. They monitor practice to help nurture and guide staff’s personal development. Regular supervision sessions consider staff’s wellbeing and identify professional training opportunities.

“Leaders are passionate about continuing professional development opportunities for all staff using tailor-made, customised and bespoke training. This means staff can continually deliver high-quality teaching experiences and constantly build their skills.”

The staff at the Day Nursery also build partnerships with the children’s parents and “gather the essential information about their child to help them settle”, the report said. Many parents have “extremely positively” commented on the information they receive about their children’s daily activities.

The site is of national, historic interest due to its connection with the Barbour Family in the 19th century.

Northern Ireland’s world famous Hilden Mill could be set for a significant planning boost amid “rumblings” of developer talks.

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council’s regeneration and growth committee will now be presented with a report in the coming weeks on the long running plans for the heritage site.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands that developers ‘Cubic3’ and Clanmill Housing have become involved in “complicated” discussions.

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In chambers, Lisburn North independent councillor Gary Hynds said: “I have heard rumblings of interest in the Hilden Mill site.

“This is an important heritage site for Lisburn.”

Hilden Mill is a Grade B+ listed thread mill in Lisburn, located next to the River Lagan which once powered the mill via a waterwheel.

The site is of national, historic interest due to its connection with the Barbour Family in the 19th century. William Barbour & Sons went on to become world’s leading linen manufacturers employing thousands of people and exported its products all over the globe.

The LDRS further understands from a developer source, that an appeal is currently in play against a council decision against knocking down some of the Hilden Mill heritage buildings with a decision likely later this month.

The demolition application is by PJK Developments, with a spokesperson labelling the council officers’ decision not to demolish some of the buildings “a farce” as it was not put before the elected members of the planning committee.

Since it was abandoned in 2006, the 24 acre former factory has been subjected to numerous arson and vandalism incidents causing its listed buildings to deteriorate further.

A council officer responded: “Yes, there is interest, but it is of a complicated nature. There are a number of people engaging with the developer. There are ongoing conversations that may or may not lead to development.

“The protection of the heritage would need to be implemented moving forward.

“I will bring a brief back to the committee in a few weeks.”

A previous owner of the Hilden Mill site, Galliard Homes, was granted planning approval for a redevelopment scheme that involved up to 600 houses, but that permission has since lapsed.

Cubic3 have worked on infrastructure projects in both the public and private sectors across Ireland and Britain.

Locally in the past two decades these have included Laganside Courts, SW Acute Hospital, Republic of Ireland Applegreen Services Stations, Duncreggan Student Village in Derry and with Choice Housing on social housing.

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Russian missile strikes have killed seven people in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city.

The number of dead includes two children, the region’s governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

Mr Syniehubov said the missile damaged a five-storey residential building in Kharkiv.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

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Raise a glass to her with something as thoughtful and exceptional as she is…

Mother’s Day is a time to slow down, gather close, and celebrate the women who’ve shaped our lives with love, strength, and endless generosity.

Whether you’re planning a sunlit brunch, an elegant dinner, or a simple toast at home, the right bottle can turn the moment into something truly memorable.

From delicate, floral-driven wines perfect for spring afternoons to refined spirits ideal for crafting her favourite cocktail, our curated selection of Mother’s Day recommendations is designed to suit every palate and every style of celebration.

Raise a glass to her with something as thoughtful and exceptional as she is…

Champagne Drappier Rosé de Saignée, £48.60

Crafted using the traditional saignée method, this striking rosé undergoes a gentle three-day maceration, allowing the Pinot Noir grapes to reveal their naturally intense pink hue and beautifully layered aromatics. The result is a Champagne of striking purity and structure.

Bathtub Gin Persian Lime & Orange Blossom, £34.95

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For the mum who loves a zingy, aromatic G&T. Think zesty citrus oils, heady orange blossom, and a finish of cardamom and clove – like the world’s most sophisticated Earl Grey, in a glass. Serve with tonic or bitter lemon

Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin, £38

Housed in a striking Art Deco-inspired bottle, Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin looks as stunning on your drinks cabinet as it does in a G&T. For a show-stopping Mother’s Day serve worthy of the red carpet, pair 50ml of Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin with premium light tonic over ice.

Compass Box Limited Edition Hedonism 2026, £91.50

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This sip is full of star quality, with the label showcasing a unique, bespoke piece of art by Inverness-born Hollywood actress Karen Gillan. A celebration of female strength and creativity, this could be the perfect gift for the special women in your life.

Pasqua 11 Minutes Rosé 2024, £15

Pasqua’s 11 Minutes Rosé offers a fresh and elegant alternative to Provence rosé. Named after the 11 minutes of skin contact used during pressing, the wine blends Corvina, Trebbiano di Lugana, Syrah and Carménère grown near Lake Garda, creating a rosé that is both delicate and expressive.

Bathtub Gin Rose & Cardamom, £34.95

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A ginny twist on the Turkish Delight. Delicate rose and warming cardamom float over Bathtub’s classic bold juniper base – think falooda, kulfi, and a lingering finish of rosewater. Magnificent in a Martini.

Master of Malt ‘Just for Mum’ Tasting Set

Each set contains six 30ml wax-sealed samples selected by Master of Malt’s in-house spirits gurus and is presented in a printed ‘Just For Mum’ gift box – no wrapping required. Choose from whisky, gin, rum or mixed spirits. Each box is wrapped with Katie’s artwork and available in green, blue, black, or red.

Chapel Down Brut NV Limited Edition Neoprene Jacket, £35.99

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Chapel Down’s consistently excellent non-vintage sparkling wine is presented in a neoprene jacket that mimics the stitching and appearance of a cricket ball. The jacket will also keep the sparkling wine chilled for at least two hours.

Silent Pool Rose Expression, £43.49

Rose Expression Gin shares Silent Pool Gin’s DNA in terms of complexity and a refreshingly individual character; however, the core recipe has been refined to complement and enhance the rose notes. Some of the original botanicals – pear, bergamot, cubeb, and cardamom – have been increased, while lemon becomes the leading citrus.

Ivana Ciabatti La Vodka Lounge, £63.52

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Aromatic and rounded, agreeable and balanced, Ivana Ciabatti’s Lounge Edition Vodka was created with pure Tuscan spring water, natural flavourings and 100% Tuscan cereals. Embellished with edible gold leaf and housed in a stunning bottle, this vodka is typical of the luxury Ivana Ciabatti brand.