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Madonna, 68, torched by fans over ‘utterly unfocused’ MTV VMAs 2026 comeback performance… 23 years after THAT steamy Britney kiss

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Madonna shocked fans as she made a blockbuster return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on Sunday, 23 years after her steamy kiss with Britney Spears made pop culture history

Madonna shocked fans as she made a blockbuster return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on Sunday, 23 years after her steamy kiss with Britney Spears made pop culture history.

The Queen of Pop, 68, who has emerged as the artist with the most nods with 11 nominations, showed off her toned frame in a Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello ensemble – but fans quickly slammed the star over her ‘utterly unfocused’ performance.

Madonna donned a black satin trench coat, a red leotard and knee-high boots as she performed hit Bring Your Love with collaborator, Sabrina Carpenter, 27. 

The pop icon was seen draped in latex in a steamy visual, accompanied by the statement, ‘It’s mother!’ before dancers contorted themselves on stage – while lasers shot from their crotches.

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Beginning her performance with her legs spread while sat on top of a piano played by Carpenter, Madonna exuded confidence as she belted out the anthem.

The star stripped off to the leotard before she was carried across stage onto a platform, where a choir belted out Bring Your Love.

Madonna shocked fans as she made a blockbuster return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage on Sunday, 23 years after her steamy kiss with Britney Spears made pop culture history

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The star was bundled onto a moving platform by scantily-clad dancers - but fans quickly noted the star seemed 'out of breath' during the performance

The star was bundled onto a moving platform by scantily-clad dancers – but fans quickly noted the star seemed ‘out of breath’ during the performance

Madonna donned a black satin trench coat, a red leotard and knee-high boots as she performed hit Bring Your Love with collaborator, Sabrina Carpenter, 27

Madonna donned a black satin trench coat, a red leotard and knee-high boots as she performed hit Bring Your Love with collaborator, Sabrina Carpenter, 27

The star writhed about as she was taken through the crowds before Charli XCX’s entrance.

Madonna joined Charli for a high octane rendition of Danceteria Afterhours remix – but fans watching on TV were left furious as the ceremony was delayed due to an overrunning football game. 

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The raunchy segment saw a scantily-clad Sombr make a shock cameo by a toilet cubicle, before Madonna was lifted into the air by a hunky dancer. 

However fans flocked to social media to accuse Madonna of lip-syncing and share their fears after the star was seen seemingly out of breath onstage. 

One fan wrote, ‘MTV & CBS really fumbled Madonna tonight. The delay was bad enough, but those HORRIBLE camera angles during her performance? Come on. She deserved so much better.’

Another wrote, ‘I wish I could’ve seen Madonna in her prime! Mama is TIRED and out of breath on this MTV #VMAs stage. And yes, I know she’s almost 70, so I’m not expecting 1985 Madonna, but whew!

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‘I’ll still give her credit where it’s due: she released one of the best albums of the year.’  

Others wrote, ‘Ima say something controversial. Madonna this is boring.’

‘madonna performance… wow… utterly unfocused and just a got damn MESS!!!!!!!’

The star struck sultry poses as she was carrried through the crowd

The star struck sultry poses as she was carrried through the crowd 

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The star was joined in a bizarre leather urinal scene by Debi Mazar

The star was joined in a bizarre leather urinal scene by Debi Mazar 

The star straddled a dancer in a toilet cubicle

The star straddled a dancer in a toilet cubicle

Seth Rogen also joined the hitmaker, while clad in a leather ensemble

Seth Rogen also joined the hitmaker, while clad in a leather ensemble

Madge was joined by Julia Garner, whose name has been floated to play the hitmaker for years in a biopic

Madge was joined by Julia Garner, whose name has been floated to play the hitmaker for years in a biopic

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Madonna later joined British bombshell Charli XCX for a high octane rendition of Danceteria – but fans watching on TV were left furious as the ceremony was delayed due to an overrunning football game

Madonna later joined British bombshell Charli XCX for a high octane rendition of Danceteria – but fans watching on TV were left furious as the ceremony was delayed due to an overrunning football game

Fans quickly called out the pop icon for her performance

Fans quickly called out the pop icon for her performance 

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‘Madonna doesn’t know how to hang it up. This is one of the weirdest and most cringe things I’ve ever seen. Why are the MTV Music Awards on CBS after football?’

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Others praised the star for her ‘iconic’ performance, which also included cameos from Debi Mazar and Seth Rogen. 

One fan wrote, ‘She’s 68, bravo to her for still being able to get up in stage and move it the way she did.’ 

Madonna and Carpenter later won best collaboration, beating out Clipse, Kendrick Lamar, Pusha T and Malice for Chains & Whips as well as Shakira and Burna Boy for Dai Dai, Teyana Taylor and Lucky Daye’s Hard Part, PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson’s Stateside and French Montana and Max B’s Ever Since U Left Me. 

This marked Madonna’s first VMAs win since 1999. 

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Accepting the award, Madonna said, ‘I would like to briefly say how this collaboration came about.

‘Everybody who knows me knows how impatient I am’ adding that five days passed without her hearing back from Carpenter

‘I DM’d her’ she revealed, ‘She answered me back, and I don’t know, within a week we were in the studio together, It was fabulous.’

Madonna’s winning streak continued as she later scooped Artist of The Year. 

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During 2003’s MTV VMAs, Madonna had a prolonged kiss with Spears during their opening performance for the ceremony.

Spears opened the show by singing Madonna’s Like a Virgin, emerging out of a wedding cake while dressed as a bride, as Madonna did in her 1984 VMAs performance.

Other fans praised the star for the 'epic' performance

Other fans praised the star for the epic

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Madonna and Carpenter later won best collaboration for Bring Your Love

Madonna and Carpenter later won best collaboration for Bring Your Love

Madonna famously performed at the first-ever VMAs in 1984, bursting from a gigantic wedding cake while dressed in a bridal gown for a rendition of Like a Virgin

Madonna famously performed at the first-ever VMAs in 1984, bursting from a gigantic wedding cake while dressed in a bridal gown for a rendition of Like a Virgin

During 2003's MTV VMAs, Madonna had a prolonged kiss with Spears during their opening performance for the ceremony

During 2003’s MTV VMAs, Madonna had a prolonged kiss with Spears during their opening performance for the ceremony

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Madonna's VMAs coup comes after she earned a burst of critical acclaim and fan adoration for her latest album Confessions II, which was released July 3 and serves as a sequel to her 2005 smash hit Confessions on a Dance Floor

Madonna’s VMAs coup comes after she earned a burst of critical acclaim and fan adoration for her latest album Confessions II, which was released July 3 and serves as a sequel to her 2005 smash hit Confessions on a Dance Floor

Soon after that, Aguilera joined Spears onstage for the song before Madonna appeared and launched into her single Hollywood. During the performance, Madonna leaned over and kissed Spears, before locking lips with Aguilera

During the broadcast only the image of Spears and Madonna was aired, followed by a reaction shot of Spears’ former flame Justin Timberlake.

The sapphic moment has gone on to be one of the most memorable in the history of the MTV Video Music Awards.

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After their public make out session, Spears and Madonna went on to collaborate on the hit single Me Against The Music.

Madonna’s VMAs coup comes after she earned a burst of critical acclaim and fan adoration for her latest album Confessions II, which was released July 3 and serves as a sequel to her 2005 smash hit Confessions on a Dance Floor.

Madonna’s Confessions II (The Film) is also up for dance video of the year, against such competition as  Aperture by Harry Styles, Runway by Lady Gaga and Doechii and New Religion by Bebe Rexha and Faithless.

The other nominees in that category are Dance… by Slayyyter, Stateside by PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson and Nobody’s Girl by Tate McRae.

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Madonna and Taylor Swift, 36, will be vying against each other for the evening’s top honor, video of the year, with Swift up for The Fate of Ophelia and Madonna for Confessions II (The Film). 

MTV Video Music Awards 2026 NOMINEES

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love Me

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Bruno Mars – I Just Might

Gener8ion (starring Yung Lean – Storm

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

Sabrina Carpenter – Tears

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Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia 

 

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande

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Bruno Mars

Madonna

Morgan Wallen

Sabrina Carpenter

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Taylor Swift 

Madonna has the most nominations of the year with 11

Madonna has the most nominations of the year with 11

 

SONG OF THE YEAR

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BTS – Swim

Ella Langley – Choosin’ Texas

Huntr/x – Golden

Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter – Bring Your Love

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Olivia Dean – Man I Need

Raye – Where Is My Husband

 

BEST NEW ARTIST

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Bella Kay

Cortis

Magnus Ferrell

Malcolm Todd

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Myles Smith

Sienna Spiro

Stella Lefty

BEST COLLABORATION

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Clipse, Kendrick Lamar, Pusha T and Malice – Chains & Whips

French Montana and Max B – Ever Since U Left Me

Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter

PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson – Stateside

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Shakira and Burna Boy – Dai Dai

Teyana Taylor and Lucky Daye – Hard Part

BEST POP

Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love Me

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Charli XCX – SS26

Lisa – Dream

Olivia Rodrigo – Drop Dead

Sabrina Carpenter – House Tour

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Tate McRae – Nobody’s Girl

Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

Taylor Swift is trailing just behind the Queen of Pop with nine nods to her name

Taylor Swift is trailing just behind the Queen of Pop with nine nods to her name

 

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BEST HIP-HOP

Cardi B featuring Kehlani – Safe

Don Toliver – E85

Drake – Janice STFU

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Megan Thee Stallion – Lover Girl

Travis Scott – Dumbo

Tyler, The Creator – Sugar on My Tongue

 

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BEST R&B

Bruno Mars – I Just Might

Chris Brown – It Depends/Obvious

Dave & Tems – Raindance

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Justin Bieber – Yukon

Kehlani – Folded

Mariah The Scientist and Kali Uchis – Is It a Crime

  

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BEST ALTERNATIVE

Geese – Taxes

MGK and Fred Durst – Fix Ur Face

Noah Kahan – The Great Divide

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Olivia Rodrigo – The Cure

Sombr – Homewrecker

Tame Impala – Dracula

Twenty One Pilots – Drag Path

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BEST DANCE

Bebe Rexha and Faithless – New Religion

Harry Styles – Aperture

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Lady Gaga and Doechii – Runway

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson – Stateside

Slayyyter – Dance…

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Tate McRae – Nobody’s Girl

 BEST LATIN

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Anitta and Shakira – Choka Choka

Bad Bunny – NUEVAYoL

Fuerza Regida – Tu Sancho

Karol G – Papasito

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Rosalía – La Perla

Ryan Castro, Kapo and Gangsta – La Villa

Shakira and Burna Boy – Dai Dai

Ariana Grande has landed a total of seven nominations

Ariana Grande has landed a total of seven nominations

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BEST K-POP

Blackpink – Jump

BTS – Swim

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Cortis – Redred

Katseye – Pinky Up

Le Sserafim – Spaghetti

Lisa – Dream

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 BEST COUNTRY

Ella Langley – Choosin’ Texas

Kacey Musgraves – Dry Spell

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Lainey Wilson – Somewhere over Laredo

Luke Combs – Back in the Saddle

Shaboozey – Cowgirl

Stella Lefty – Boston

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Tucker Wetmore – Brunette

 

BEST DIRECTION

Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love me

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Bruno Mars – I Just Might

Gener8ion – Storm

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

Sabrina Carpenter – House Tour

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Taylor Swift – Opalite

 

Sabrina Carpenter is tied with Grande, having scored seven nods

Sabrina Carpenter is tied with Grande, having scored seven nods

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

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Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love Me

A$AP Rocky – Punk Rocky

Lisa – Dream

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

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Shaboozey – Cowgirl

Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

BEST EDITING

Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love Me

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Bruno Mars – I Just Might

Lisa – Dream

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

Sabrina Carpenter – House Tour

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Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

 

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

Gener8ion – Storm

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Harry Styles – Dance No More

Katseye – Pinky Up

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

Tate McRae – Nobody’s Girl

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Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

 

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Ariana Grande – Hate That I Made You Love Me

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Jisoo and Zayn – Eyes Closed

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson – Stateside

Raye – Click Clack Symphony

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Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

 

BEST ART DIRECTION

Charli XCX – SS26

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Lady Gaga and Doechii – Runway

Madonna – Confessions II (The Film)

PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson – Stateside

Sombr – My Body Isn’t Ready

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Taylor Swift – The Fate of Ophelia

Swift has a chance this year to break her dead heat with Beyonce, with whom she is tied for most VMAs ever at 30

Swift has a chance this year to break her dead heat with Beyonce, with whom she is tied for most VMAs ever at 30

 

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What we know about RAF Fairford incident and counter-terror probe

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Satellite map of RAF Fairford and the nearby village of Whelford, showing the airbase boundary outlined in white. Labels indicate locations where vans were reportedly seen by members of the public and where suspects were arrested.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the incident was “deeply concerning” and the government would “always take every step necessary” to protect people.

The prime minister urged people “not to speculate while the authorities establish the full facts”.

Speaking to BBC Breakfast on Monday, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting thanked members of the public for their vigilance and quick action to alert emergency services to the plot.

He added that the farmer who told the BBC about her 999 call “did the right thing” in reporting the men but said she only had a “partial picture”, without expanding further.

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The defence secretary said “this is not the time for me to speculate” over whether there was any Iranian involvement in the plot.

On Iranian threats to the UK more generally, Streeting added: “We know that Iran and their proxies wish to do us harm.”

“In the dangerous and turbulent world we find ourselves in, investment in defence is a price worth paying,” he added.

The Iranian embassy in London said it “categorically rejects and strongly condemns” what it called “unfounded and malicious speculations” linking Iran to the incident, adding that these would “serve no purpose other than to fuel Iranophobia propaganda in the UK”.

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In a statement, the embassy said Iran “reserves the right to take appropriate legal measures, as necessary, to safeguard the rights and interests of the country and its people in response to misleading and damaging media narratives”.

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Trump poised to send UK diesel prices soaring again with US exports embargo – as Burnham reveals he is pleading for an exemption

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Donald Trump says he is considering export curbs that could twist the knife again on motorists

Donald Trump is poised to hammer British drivers as he mulls curbs on US diesel exports.

The president is ‘very seriously’ considering restrictions in a desperate to keep costs for Americans down and shore up support ahead of November’s midterm elections.

The White House house has sparked market wobbles by teeing up a mystery announcement at 7pm UK time – after previously trying to play down the prospect of a full ban on exports.

Andy Burnham stressed ministers are ‘on it’ this evening, suggesting the UK is seeking an exemption from any action.

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Mr Burnham said during an LBC phone-in that ‘we are working closely with the US’ on the diesel issue. Pressed whether he would ask for special treatment, the premier said ‘we do make that case all of the time’.

Mr Burnham admitted Brits are facing a ‘hard situation’ as UK diesel prices hit a new all-time high.

The RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022.

Brent Crude, which has soared during the Iran war crisis, topped $108 a barrel overnight, suggesting the problems could get worse.

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The grim news on diesel will also heap pressure on ministers to ditch plans for fuel duty to increase from next year.

Donald Trump says he is considering export curbs that could twist the knife again on motorists

Andy Burnham said he knew people are 'struggling' after the RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022

Andy Burnham said he knew people are ‘struggling’ after the RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022

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The RAC said average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022 (file picture)

The RAC said average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022 (file picture) 

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The extent of any limits remains unclear, but they could have a devastating impact on British motorists. Experts fear that could reach £3 a litre.

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: ‘The average price of a litre of diesel has now reached the highest level in UK history at 199.18p, in what will be a financial blow to households and businesses that use their vehicles regularly. 

‘The cost of filling up an average family car is now almost £110, £31 more than it was at the start of the US-Iran conflict. 

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‘By eclipsing the previous highest price of 199.09p seen in June 2022, the diesel price has entered new uncharted territory. 

‘This spells pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans; undoubtedly these increased costs will be passed on to consumers.

‘Petrol prices, too, are continuing to rise. A litre of unleaded stands at 174.13p on average, 41p more than at the start of the war – taking the cost of a full tank to nearly £96.

‘These extraordinarily high prices are another reminder of just how exposed the UK is to events occurring far away from its shores. 

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‘Only a sustained lower oil price – over several weeks, not days – will lead to cheaper prices at the pumps.’

Mr Williams urged Mr Healey to take steps at the Budget to lower pressure on motorists.

Asked about the potential impact of US export curbs during a Politico event at Labour conference last night, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: ‘Clearly something like that … would be a significant concern to the UK. 

‘Our resilience comes from a diverse supply in a whole range of areas and fuel is no different to that.’ 

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Economists have warned that export curbs could reduce US diesel prices in the short-term, but might actually push them higher in the long term. There are fears that the world’s largest exporter limiting supplies might well push European countries into recession. 

Attending a golf tournament in Illinois last night, Mr Trump told Fox News: ‘We’re thinking about it very seriously…

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month

‘That can oftentimes lead to a little bit of an increase on gasoline for cars, so we’re looking at it very seriously. We may do it.’

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Fuel duty, which raised £24billion last year, accounts for 52.95p a litre of the price for petrol and diesel.

It was due to rise by 5p but last May prime minister Sir Keir Starmer pushed that back until the end of the year.

Opposition parties are urging Mr Healey to extend the freeze further.

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Man and woman killed in workplace incident as emergency services race to scene

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Belfast Live

A man in his 50s and woman in her 20s were killed at the industrial premises

Two people were killed in a workplace incident this morning (Monday), according to Gardaí. The incident happened at an industrial premises in Banagher today (September 28), at approximately 11.40am.

Gardaí and emergency services responded to the incident where a man, in his 50s and a woman, in her 20s, were pronounced dead at the scene.

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Their bodies remain at the scene.

Post-mortem examinations will take place at Tullamore General Hospital at a later date, and the coroner has been notified. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been notified.

A spokesman for the HSA said: “The Health and Safety Authority is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation. As such, no further information is available at this time.”

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Flutter and Entain warn over hit from Brazilian gambling ban

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Flutter and Entain warn over hit from Brazilian gambling ban

The group, which also owns brands including Coral, said it had launched a consultation that could see a fifth of its 2,000-strong customer care jobs go across 11 countries, including the UK, as part of ongoing efforts to “address the impact of the UK’s increased gambling taxes”.

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Royal jokes with Kevin Sinfield during York MND challenge

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Royal jokes with Kevin Sinfield during York MND challenge

Sir Kevin is completing an ultramarathon every day for seven days in his 7 in 7: The Grand Finale venture.

Sir Kevin Sinfield and Lewis Moody at the University of York Athletics Track on day two of the 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge – Shiptonthorpe to Bishopthorpe (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

On Monday (September 28), he arrived at the University of York’s sport centre where he was greeted by the Princess Royal along with scores of well-wishers.

As the pair chatted, Sir Kevin agreed with the royal visitor that the term “fun run” was a “contradiction”.

Anne said: “I can run but I don’t do it for fun. I’m past that stage.”

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Sir Kevin said: “Well, you’re welcome to join at any point”, to which the Princess Royal replied: “I’ll stick with horses.”

The Princess Royal and Jo Ropner, Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, with Lewis Moody at the University of York on day two of Sir Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

One of his team said nobody had ever joined them for a leg on a horse.

Anne laughed and said: “That would be nice.”

She asked Sir Kevin if he was enjoying the sunny weather, but he replied: “If I’m being brutally honest, I’d love it to be bouncing down”, telling the Princess Royal that it helps with fundraising if people watching on TV think he is having a hard time.

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When she asked him about his diet and nutrition for the runs, Sir Kevin said he would let her into his secret about how he is fuelled by bacon butties.

Back on the track, Sir Kevin told supporters: “Really, really well done everybody.

“Keep sharing your stories, keep looking after each other.”

The royal visitor watched as Sir Kevin did four laps of the university’s athletics track with his supporters and then banged a drum seven times to send him on his way.

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She also chatted to people who had come to support the event, including many living with MND.

The Princess Royal at the University of York Athletics Track, on day two of Sir Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

Former England rugby union star Lewis Moody, who announced last year that he had been diagnosed with MND, surprised Sir Kevin by turning up at the track, after telling him yesterday that he could not make it.

Moody said: “Kevin Sinfield is a remarkable human being.”

He said: “If this is going to be Kev’s last big challenge – which we don’t believe for a second – then I had to be here to thank him for all that he’s done.

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“I’m grateful to be here as someone living with MND.

“I’m also just proud to be here participating and supporting Kev.”

Asked about his conversation with Anne, Moody said: “Kindred spirit recognises kindred spirit. And I think she sees that in Kev.

“To have her energy and presence here today is just a fantastic thing for this community.”

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Inspired by former Leeds Rhinos team-mate Rob Burrow, who died in 2024 after living with MND for four-and-a-half years, Sir Kevin and his team have raised more than £11 million for the MND community since his first annual challenge in 2020.

Six charities are set to benefit once again from this year’s fundraising – the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland and the Irish MND Association.

Each ultramarathon is split into seven-kilometre blocks, which must be completed within the hour before starting the next.

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There will also be an “extra mile” event every day, when Sir Kevin joins members of the MND community in completing four laps of a running track.

The home grounds of the 12 English Betfred Super League clubs will be visited, before finishing on the pitch at Old Trafford ahead of the Super League Grand Final, where his son Jack will play for Wakefield against Warrington.

Sir Kevin sets off on Sunday morning from Hull KR’s Craven Park before heading across the city to the MKM Stadium, the home of Hull FC, and out to Market Weighton, with the first day’s event finishing in Shiptonthorpe.

Former England boss Southgate also joined Sir Kevin’s team during the run towards the finish.

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FAI to investigate alleged racist abuse of Swansea City star during Israel clash

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Wales Online

The incident happened during a controversial contest in Debrecen

The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed it’s to launch an investigation into alleged racist chants aimed at Adam Idah during the Republic of Ireland’s tense UEFA Nations League clash with Israel on Sunday.

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However, the incident will not be investigated by UEFA themselves as their protocols into racist abuse had not been followed on the night.

According to the Irish Times, Jayson Molumby claimed he heard racist chants towards the Swansea City striker, who was on target in a 3-0 win for his side.

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Molumby had allegedly told officials to listen out for the chants, but because he hadn’t actually stated a racist incident had occurred, and because the officials hadn’t heard anything themselves, the governing body won’t be launching an investigation.

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Nevertheless, the FAI has pledged to review the video evidence from the game, and will present any findings to UEFA.

“We’re going to review the video evidence from the game and try and determine if there is any evidence of racism,” said an FAI spokesperson.

“If we believe that to be the case, we will send [the evidence] to UEFA demanding an investigation into the incident.”

It’s claimed Idah himself was unaware of any abuse.

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Ireland’s clash with Israel has been in sharp focus all week, with Idah and his team-mates holding a meeting on Friday to decide whether they would even go through with the fixture, amid widespread protests against Israel from Irish fans and politicians.

The FAI voted to play both Nations League games against Israel, but they were moved to neutral venues.

Sunday’s clash was held in the Hungarian city of Debrecen, with some 300 Israel supporters admitted, and no tickets sold to ‘away’ Irish fans.

The return game this weekend is set to be held in Backa Topola in Serbia, and there is still some pressure on the Irish side to boycott that game.

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It’s claimed further discussions are likely around whether the team decides to play the upcoming fixture.

Asked directly whether his team would fulfil the game, Irish boss Heimir Hallgrimsson had no update.

“It was a tough enough decision to play this game,” he said.

“You know the story, everything seems to leak from private player meetings. You probably know more than me.”

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Derry disorder sees police attacked with ‘cans of paint, petrol bombs and glass bottles’

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Belfast Live

Fires were lit on roads and fireworks were let off in the area too, police said.

Petrol bombs, glass bottles, and cans of paint were thrown at police during disorder in Derry on Sunday night.

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Police dealt with “sporadic disorder” in the Waterside area of the city from shortly after 7.30pm on September 27, with fires lit on roads and fireworks let off in the Strabane Old Road/Irish Street area.

Some of those involved in attacking police in the area had their faces covered, a police spokesperson said.

A PSNI spokesperson added: “A large number of people gathered in the area, watching on. Irish Street was closed as officers worked to bring the situation under control.

“By 11pm, the area had returned to normal, however, police maintained a presence for a time to ensure no further incidents occurred.

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“While some police vehicles were damaged, fortunately, there were no injuries reported to police officers, or to members of the public, or properties. An investigation is underway to identify all those involved.”

Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney said: “Our courageous and dedicated officers put themselves in harm’s way to protect the local community.

“Valuable police resources were used to deal with this situation last night, resources which should have been available to help victims of crime. It is completely unacceptable.”

Anyone with information, including dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1245 of 27/09/26.

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Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.

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

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Cheapest fuel in your area as prices hit all-time high

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Cambridgeshire Live

Drivers are now paying the highest ever recorded prices at the forecourt

The average price of diesel in the UK has hit an all-time record high. Standard diesel climbed to an average cost of 199.18p per litre this weekend as forecourts around the country continue to hike up prices.

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According to the RAC, that is the highest price ever recorded in the UK, beating the previous high of 199.09p per litre in June 2022. The price of diesel has risen by 20 per cent since the middle of July as the pressure on global oil markets caused by the Iran war caused a second spike in UK prices.

The average price of standard unleaded petrol is now at 174.1p per litre, and while this has also risen sharply in recent weeks, it has not reached the same record levels as diesel. Following the invasion of Ukraine, the price of unleaded peaked in July 2022 at 191.5p per litre.

The price of standard unleaded is also rising, and could break through the £2 barrier with more than 50 forecourts at motorway service stations now charging 199.9p per litre.

You can find the cheapest petrol prices in your area by using our postcode interactive here:

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According to the latest Fuel Finder data published by the government and based on figures supplied by retailers, the highest price being charged for diesel around the country today is 219.9p per litre. That price is being advertised at more than 100 motorway service station garages mostly operated by BP and Welcome Break.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “The average price of a litre of diesel has now reached the highest level in UK history, in what will be a financial blow to households and businesses that use their vehicles regularly.

“The cost of filling up an average family car is now almost £110, £31 more than it was at the start of the US-Iran conflict.

“This spells pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans; undoubtedly, these increased costs will be passed on to consumers. Only a sustained lower oil price – over several weeks, not days – will lead to cheaper prices at the pumps.”

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Britain cannot afford a spending spree, warns Burnham’s Chancellor as he pleads for realism at Labour conference

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Chancellor John Healey made his first address to Labour conference in Liverpool amid mounting alarm at the state of the public finances

John Healey warned Labour cannot afford a Tony Blair-style spending splurge today as he tried to cool nerves about Budget tax hikes.

In a plea for realism from Left-wing activists at the party’s conference in Liverpool, the Chancellor said the money that was poured into the public sector under New Labour is ‘simply not there now’.

Mr Healey insisted that he will stick to the fiscal rules, again fuelling speculation that taxes will need to rise at the Budget.

He also argued that it is ‘not progressive’ to run up a ‘bigger and bigger benefits bill’ – and suggested that Labour would focus on getting young people into work rather than giving them welfare.

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The Chancellor claimed there was still room for ‘new hope’ despite ‘everything we face’, unveiling a new local apprenticeships push overseen by mayors.  

But the Government is facing an increasingly bleak backdrop as surging inflation from the Middle East crisis and sluggish growth wreaks havoc with the finances.

Ironically, lower immigration forecasts from the Treasury’s Office for Budget Responsibility watchdog could also deal a blow to Mr Healey’s ‘headroom’ against the fiscal rules – potentially as much as £7billion – by reducing expected revenues.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has made a series of big spending commitments, including a pledge yesterday to introduce an NHS-style social care service after the next election that could cost £18billion a year. 

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There is speculation that could be partly funded by downgrading the state pension ‘triple lock’ – which sees the payments rise by the highest out of inflation, earnings and 2.5 per cent. 

Capital gains tax is among the levies floated for the Chancellor to bring in more cash and reassure markets that the Government will balance its books.

Chancellor John Healey made his first address to Labour conference in Liverpool amid mounting alarm at the state of the public finances

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Andy Burnham was on the stage to watch his Chancellor's speech today

Andy Burnham was on the stage to watch his Chancellor’s speech today 

Renewed Iran war tensions have seen Brent Crude hit $108 a barrel overnight.  

And the pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is ‘seriously’ looking at a US diesel exports embargo. 

That would curb prices for Americans, but push them up dramatically in the rest of the world. 

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Mr Healey said: ‘I know the 90s is having a bit of a revival. To Andy’s excitement, Oasis is going back on tour, to Angela’s joy Gladiators is back on TV. But I have to level with you conference, the money New Labour had in the 90s is simply not there now.

‘Economic growth under Gordon (Brown) was more than double the Tory years that followed, and Britain has it harder now.’

Mr Healey blamed ’14 years of flatlining Tory growth and living standards’.

He said the Government wanted to restore confidence in the economy and help boost family finances.

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‘Labour isn’t just here to cut the cake in a different way, we have to bake a bigger cake and make sure that it’s fairly shared,’ he said.

‘So whether it’s the cost of business or the cost of living, the only long-term answer is growth.’

Nodding to soaring interest costs on the Government’s borrowing, Mr Healey said: ‘The cost of the nation’s debt is not just a number in a Chancellor’s budget. It’s the money that we can’t spend on the NHS, on schools, on housing, on social care, on policing our streets, on controlling our borders, on defending our country.

‘I tell you, these levels of debt are an assault on our common sense. They’re an affront to our values, and that’s why the Prime Minister and I are in lockstep, that we will meet the fiscal rules, that we will maintain control of Britain’s finances.’

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The Tories and Reform have been demanding Labour slashes benefits to fund more spending in areas such as defence, instead of hiking taxes. 

Mr Healey said: ‘Conference, it is not progressive to allow a bigger and bigger benefits bill, and a system which offers an income but doesn’t offer a future.

‘So once again, as a Labour government, it falls to us to act. And this is more than just an economic must. This is a moral duty.

‘I refuse to write off a million young people like the Tories have done.’

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He added: ‘I see a generation born this century, digital natives, whip-smart, questioning, ambitious, brave, I see the best asset we have in our young people, and I believe this generation has the potential to be a great generation.

‘And I believe we can help this generation move from generation jeopardy to generation hope.’

Mr Healey tried to strike an upbeat note, saying Britain can enter a ‘new age of industrialisation’.

The Chancellor argued that the UK cannot return to the coal mines of its past.

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Describing his politics as ‘shaped by the industrial heartlands of South Yorkshire’, he pointed to the example of the former Orgreave mine, now the site of Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park. 

‘Our coal mines are not coming back,’ he said.

‘But this is how Britain’s industrial past is being remade now for the modern world.

‘This is the new age of industrialisation. A new confidence in Britain.’

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Mr Healey, who quit as Sir Keir Starmer’s defence secretary in a row over funding for the military, confirmed more support for Britain’s shipbuilding industry, with investment in the Royal Navy’s Scottish submarine base at its heart.

He said three new floating docks at HM Naval Base Clyde, Faslane, will be procured through a UK-only competition.

Known as Programme Euston, plans for the new docks were first set out in 2023 and are expected to upgrade Faslane’s facilities for the next generation of British submarines.

The Ministry of Defence has previously said they are expected to come into service in the early 2030s, and the docks form part of a wider £15billion upgrade programme for the Royal Navy’s shipyards.

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The announcement follows a commitment by Louise Haigh, the First Secretary of State, who said on Sunday the Government would commission a new marine research vessel as part of plans for a ‘new era of reindustrialisation’.

Mr Healey announced £115million in funding for the ship, which is also set to come into service in the early 2030s.

Ahead of his speech, he said: ‘By backing British shipyards, we are not only boosting national security but also securing resilience in the industries that will drive growth today while building the capabilities the country needs for the future.’

Plans for a new age of industrialisation echo Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to prioritise ‘reindustrialisation’ as a way of boosting Britain’s sluggish growth.

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But the Chancellor’s conference speech coincides with more gloomy economic news from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

A survey by the business group found private sector firms saw falling activity in the three months up to September, and expect activity to continue to decline for the rest of the year.

Much of that decline was driven by retail and services, with manufacturing declining more moderately.

CBI deputy chief economist Alpesh Paleja said rising energy and employment costs combined with weak demand were continuing to put pressure on profit margins.

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He added: ‘Uncertainty ahead of next month’s Budget is also holding back activity in some sectors.

‘Against the backdrop of renewed fiscal pressures, the Budget must draw a clear red line under any more rises in the cost of hiring, investing and doing business.’

The pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is 'seriously' looking at a US diesel exports embargo

The pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is ‘seriously’ looking at a US diesel exports embargo

Shadow chancellor Andrew Griffith said: ‘These are more reheated announcements without clarity on where the money is coming from. Additional docks were announced months ago in the defence investment plan, which still has a £4.7 billion black hole.

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‘John Healey resigned warning that Labour’s failure to fund defence was making Britain unsafe. Now that he is Chancellor, he still won’t fund the 3% target he walked out over.

‘Labour are running scared of making the tough choices needed to pay for Britain’s defence. All they can offer is reannounced docks and more hot air from Healey. Only the Conservatives will cut the welfare bill to fund defence.’

John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: ‘The chancellor offered next to nothing to defuse the benefits bomb sitting under Britain’s economy. 

‘The plans he did announce are little more than taxpayer-funded make-work schemes and bungs to trade unions dressed up as welfare and work reforms, all the while refusing to acknowledge the damage done to businesses and employment by his predecessor.

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‘If the chancellor is serious about getting young people back into work, he needs to reduce the burdens on businesses and cut welfare spending.’

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Charity legend Kevin Sinfield reveals heartbreaking moment he said final goodbye to MND hero Rob Burrow

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Daily Mirror

Rugby league legend Sir Kevin Sinfield kissed Rob Burrow on the forehead and told him that he loved him; they both knew ‘it was the last time’

Kevin Sinfield on his last MND challenge

Sir Kevin Sinfield has described his final farewell to his best friend Rob Burrow on the day before he died.

The rugby league legend kissed Rob on the forehead and told him that he loved him because they both knew ‘it was the last time’. He said the emotional encounter was ‘sad, but beautiful’.

Sinfield, 46, met former England captain Lewis Moody on Day Two of his ‘Grand Finale’ 7 in 7 epic fundraising venture.

Moody put his arm around the shoulder of Sinfield as they ran side by side.

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And Sir Kev was also given a huge morale boost when he met with the Princess Royal in York.

He has already raised more than £500,000 for Motor Neurone Disease research, taking the total raised so far to more than £14.6m with Gift Aid. It means Sir Kevin and Rob, who died in 2024 after being diagnosed with MND, have raised more than £35m between them.

Sir Kevin told how Burrow was nicknamed ‘Stevie Wonder’ because he would keep his sunglasses on and fall asleep while people spoke to him.

Sir Kevin told the High Performance podcast: “The last day I saw him was the day before he passed and it was tough. I was in an England rugby camp and got the message. I knew all week he’d been poorly and got the message he was close.

“So I got back up north and went to see him. And as I looked through the little window to his private room he was fast asleep with breathing apparatus on.”

Sinfield continued: “Anyway I crept in and saw his mum and his sister and I sat with him and he woke up. So I did what I normally did: I tried to make him laugh and told him what I was up to. It was really sad. Sad, but beautiful.

“We both knew it was the last time. I knew, I was pretty sure and I’m pretty sure he did too. The minute he opened his eyes he had the biggest smile. I always got a smile regardless of what was going on.”

He added: “It was his way of saying that everything’s alright and no matter what’s going on in life, what’s weighing heavy on you, what you’re mulling over, it doesn’t matter.

“It was his way of saying to just get on with living and loving and taking some risks. In the final interaction I kissed his forehead and told him I loved him.

“As I was leaving, I looked back one last time and he was looking back at me with a smile, which was what he always did.”

He added: “Throughout all that time he couldn’t speak he would always smile at the start and smile when I left. Even his most difficult moments when I’m sure he knew, he still found the energy for a smile.

“I only saw him upset twice, when he was first diagnosed. After that he was so positive about life.”

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The moving interview came as Rob’s son starred in a rugby match in honour of his late father.

Seven-year-old Jackson Burrow came on to score a winning try at the end of the fundraiser between Team Burrow, made up of rugby league legends, and Team Ed Slater, a team of rugby union icons. He was hoisted in the air at the end of the charity match, supporting Motor Neurone Disease research.

A teammate handed him the ball before the youngster set off on a mazy run from the halfway line, dodging his older opponents along the way. He rose elated after diving across the line to score, and his teammates lifted him into the air and patted his head.

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A delighted crowd at Welford Road, home of Leicester Tigers, applauded every step of the way, and players from both teams clapped and congratulated Jackson.

“This is quality,” commented rugby fan Andrew Forde. “What an absolute joy to see. Truly remarkable,” said another, Mike Marsh.

Rob Burrow died aged 41 but not before raising the then total of more than £30m for MND charities alongside Sir Kevin.

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Both were awarded CBEs for their efforts in raising awareness of the disease. Ed Slater, who was also represented at the charity match, is a former rugby union star diagnosed with MND in July 2022, aged 33.

He played for Gloucester and Leicester Tigers. Details of Sir Kevin’s latest challenge at https://www.therhinos.co.uk/the-club/sinfield-grand-finale

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