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Man awaiting trial for murdering Chloe Mitchell secures new legal team

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Belfast Live

A Co Antrim man awaiting trial for murdering Chloe Mitchell today has now secured fresh legal representation, a court heard today.

Brandon John Rainey’s previous legal team walked away from the case last week stating that they had been “professionally compromised” and said the defendant had told them that he no longer wished them to represent him.

Rainey (29), of James Street, Ballymena, is currently awaiting trial and denies murdering the 21-year-old on June 3, 2023, and preventing the lawful burial of her remains.

The defendant was produced from custody to again attend the court proceedings while Ms Mitchell’s family and friends sat in the public gallery.

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At Belfast Crown Court today, senior defence counsel Des Fahy KC told Madam Justice McBride that he has now come into the case to represent Rainey.

“I am here this morning, principally out of courtesy to the court, to inform the court that I have been recently instructed in the case as of yesterday (Thursday) and there is an application to transfer the legal aid certificate to my instructing solicitor (Phoenix Law),” said Mr Fahy.

“My position is that as of this morning I don’t have any papers. I was first approached yesterday (Thursday) and my instructing solicitor was instructed last Friday.

“I am out of courtesy letting you know that matters are in train and I have agreed to accept instructions. I understand that my solicitor will get receipt of the papers today (from the former solicitors). So those papers will be in transit today.”

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With the trial listed to start after the Easter recess, Madam Justice McBride said there is an “urgency about this case proceeding” following representations by the Mitchell family that this case should be exempted from the strike and that was agreed by the Criminal Bar Association (CBA).

Mr Fahy replied: “I can tell you from The Bar that I will give this case my full attention once I have received the papers but as of yet I am not able to give you any indication how long that is going to take. I don’t have a sense of the extent of the papers.”

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Senior prosecution counsel David Russell KC said he was grateful to Mr Fahy for the way he had outlined the defence position and said the case should be reviewed next Friday, March 27.

“Hopefully by then Mr Fahy will have been able to triage the papers and have some idea of where we are going,” added Mr Russell.

Madam Justice McBride said she was conscious the Easter was coming “and we need to get this case on as soon as possible after the Easter recess”.

The senior judge agreed to adjourn that matter until next Friday and said she expected to be addressed by Mr Fahy on a timeframe that he considered was necessary in taking the case forward.

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Madam Justice McBride also agreed to transfer the legal aid certificate in the case from Ballymena-based James Ballentine & Son solicitors to Phoenix Law.

“I want to make it clear to the family who have attended today about the reasons which you obviously understand why this matter has not been able to proceed,” said Madam Justice McBride.

“But it is to be welcomed now that the defendant has engaged the services of a solicitor and senior counsel.

“Mr Fahy has given his commitment to the court to give this matter a priority and by next Friday hopefully we will be in a position to fix a date as to when this matter will proceed,” she added.

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Chloe Mitchell’s remains were found days after she went missing. She was last seen alive on CCTV in Ballymena town centre in the early hours of June 3, 2023 and an extensive search operation was launched by the PSNI.

Detectives investigating her disappearance later launched a murder inquiry after human remains were discovered in the Co Antrim town.

This led officers to attend a flat in the James Street area of the town which prompted Rainey’s arrest.

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

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Car and police van crash on Wigan Road in Bolton

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Car and police van crash on Wigan Road in Bolton

The crash happened on Wigan Road last night, leaving the bus stop badly damaged and debris scattered across the road.

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 7:21pm on Wednesday, March 19 following reports of a road traffic collision involving the two vehicles.

@nikesxiii7 POV: You arrive seconds after this crash in Bolton, Wigan Road. 19/03/2026 #bolton #crash #policevan ♬ original sound – NikesXIII

The impact caused the police van to crash into a bus stop outside the Co-op, shattering glass across the pavement and carriageway.

The Police van collided with a bus stop completely shattering the glass (Image: NikesXIII)

Images and videos from the scene show the front of the car completely destroyed, while the police van also sustained significant front-end damage.

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A man was seen getting out of the car appearing shaken but uninjured.

Both the driver and police officers involved were later seen speaking at the roadside.

A video of the aftermath of the crash can be found here .

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “At 7:21pm we were made aware of a road traffic collision, involving a police van and another vehicle that subsequently hit a bus stop.

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“There was glass on the pavement from the bus stop, but this was cleared along with the vehicles.

“Only minor injuries reported.”

The incident happened on Wigan Road, near Deane, outside the Co-op.

Both vehicles faced front damage (Image: NikesXIII)

It is one of several collisions to have taken place on this stretch of road in recent months.

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In January, four people died after a car collided head-on with a taxi on Wigan Road in Deane in the early hours of Sunday, January 11.

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Rare extinct Carolina Parakeet to be sold at Tennants sale

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Rare extinct Carolina Parakeet to be sold at Tennants sale

The bird will be auctioned by Tennants Auctioneers on April 22, as part of its Natural History and Taxidermy Sale.

This display, estimated to fetch between £15,000 and £25,000, includes a selection of North and South American birds dating from around 1880 to 1900.

Robbie Bright, natural history specialist at Tennants, said: “It is very rare to come across a specimen of the Carolina parakeet on the open market, and even rarer to find a juvenile example, which has yet to develop the distinctive solid yellow head of the adult bird.”

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The display was once housed at Kilmurry in County Kilkenny, the Georgian family home of Irish artist Mildred Anne Butler.

Their diet of crops and noisy flocking also made them targets for hunters.

READ MORE: Praise for introduction of new North East bus service taking to the road this month

. Darlington man remanded in prison after unlawfully escaping custody

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After 1860, the birds were rarely seen outside Florida.

The last known wild Carolina parakeet was killed in 1904, and the final captive bird died at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1918.

In 1939, the species was declared extinct.

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Can you beat the world’s shortest IQ test – only 3 questions

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Can you solve the toughest GCSE questions ever set?

The Cognitive Reflection Test has a pass rate of just 17 per cent, leaving the majority who attempt it boggled.

It was originally part of a research paper published in 2005 by MIT Professor Shane Frederick, and has recently resurfaced online with many people giving it a go.

As part of his research, Professor Frederick had more than 3,000 participants from a range of educational backgrounds complete the test, but even those attending top American universities such as Yale and Harvard struggled to work out all the answers.

Professor Frederick said: “The three items on the CRT are ‘easy’ in the sense that their solution is easily understood when explained, yet reaching the correct answer often requires the suppression of an erroneous answer that springs ‘impulsively’ to mind.”

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So how will you get on?

What are the questions?

1. A bat and a ball cost $1.10 in total. The bat costs $1 more than the ball. How much does the ball cost?

2. If it takes five machines five minutes to make five widgets, how long would it take 100 machines to make 100 widgets?

3. In a lake, there is a patch of lily pads. Every day, the patch doubles in size. If it takes 48 days for the patch to cover the entire lake, how long would it take for the patch to cover half of the lake?

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What are the answers?

These are the three most common answers that people guess, but they are actually incorrect:

1. 10 cents

2. 100 minutes

3. 24 days

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Professor Frederick said: “Anyone who reflects upon it for even a moment would recognise that the difference between $1 and 10 cents is only 90 cents, not $1 as the problem stipulates.

“In this case, catching that error is tantamount to solving the problem, since nearly everyone who does not respond ‘10 cents’ does, in fact, give the correct response.”

The correct answers are:

1. Five cents

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2. Five minutes

3. 47 days

Here are the answers explained

Presh Talwalkar, the author of The Hoy of Game Theory: An Introduction to Strategic Thinking, explained how to work out the correct answers for each of the three questions on his blog, Mind Your Decisions.

1. Say the ball costs X. Then the bat costs $1 more, so it is X + 1. So we have bat + ball = X + (X + 1) = 1.1 because together they cost $1.10. This means 2X + 1 = 1.1, then 2X = 0.1, so X = 0.05. This means the ball costs five cents and the bat costs $1.05

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2. If it takes five machines five minutes to make five widgets, then it takes one machine five minutes to make one widget (each machine is making a widget in five minutes). If we have 100 machines working together, then each can make a widget in five minutes. So there will be 100 widgets in five minutes.

3. Every day FORWARD the patch doubles in size. So every day BACKWARDS means the patch halves in size. So on day 47 the lake is half full.

Can you solve one of the toughest GCSE questions ever set?

As recent research revealed that 5.3 million adults in the UK still feel a pang of panic when recalling their exam experience, could you solve one of the toughest GCSE questions ever set?

The question has sparked intense debate on Reddit, where users admitted they were completely stumped, even years after leaving school.

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One user summed it up perfectly: “The last three questions on Edexcel always left me hopeless.”

A 2025 survey of UK students found that 85% experience exam anxiety, with one in four describing it as nearly unbearable during exams.

Lindsey Wright, Head of Maths Education at Tutors Valley, said: “Exams are designed to challenge students, but parents can make a real difference.

“Understanding how your child learns and providing one-to-one support gives them a safe space to make mistakes, ask questions, and build confidence.

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“Research shows 71% of students do not seek any support at all, so this guidance is more important than ever.”

So can you solve this impossible question?

null (Image: Tutors Valley)

Lindsey Wright, Head of Maths Education at Tutors Valley, said: “Exams are designed to challenge students, but parents can make a real difference.

“Understanding how your child learns and providing one-to-one support gives them a safe space to make mistakes, ask questions, and build confidence.

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“Research shows 71% of students do not seek any support at all, so this guidance is more important than ever.”

So can you solve this impossible question?

The above video explains how to solve it, and whether or not you found the correct solution.

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Trump lashes out at Nato allies as ‘cowards’ as UK dragged into Iran war for allowing US planes to use RAF bases

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Trump lashes out at Nato allies as 'cowards' as UK dragged into Iran war for allowing US planes to use RAF bases

In his latest outburst against Nato allies on Truth Social, the US president said: “Now that fight is Militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to pay, but don’t ‌want to help open the ​Strait of Hormuz, a simple military ‌maneuver that is ⁠the single reason for the high oil ⁠prices. So easy for them to do, ‌with so ​little risk,” he wrote.

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Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt at Professor Kettlestring

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Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt at Professor Kettlestring

Scarlett Moffatt paid a special visit to the Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring on Merchantgate yesterday (Wednesday), delighting guests and staff alike.

Visiting alongside her mum, sister, and young son, Scarlett spent time exploring the attraction’s immersive illusions and interactive exhibits.

Scarlett, a York St John University graduate, had already heard about the attraction prior to her visit.

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Experiencing it first-hand, she described the Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring as “really cool,” clearly enjoying its playful and mind-bending environment.

Scarlett first found fame on Channel 4 favourite Gogglebox before being crowned ‘Queen of the Jungle’ in the 2016 series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!

The operators of the attraction which opened just over a year ago said her visit highlights the attraction’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination for families and visitors of all ages.

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With its unique blend of optical illusions, puzzles, and hands-on experiences, the Puzzling World of Professor Kettlestring won New Tourism Business of the Year at the Visit York awards last week.

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Chuck Norris dies at 86 after medical emergency in Hawaii

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Chuck Norris dies at 86 after medical emergency in Hawaii

The actor’s Instagram page confirmed Norris’ death on Friday, March 20.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the statement read.

“While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace.”

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“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength.

“To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family”

“He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved.

“Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives,” it concluded.

The actor, who turned 86 earlier this month, was hospitalised in Hawaii on Thursday, March 19, TMZ reported.

This came just days after Norris celebrated his birthday with an Instagram post of himself boxing and training on March 10.

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Norris served in the US Air Force and went on to win multiple martial arts championships.

The Delta Force actor is a black belt in Karate, Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Judo.

Norris founded his own discipline, Chun Kuk Do, and he went on to train celebrities in martial arts.



His late friend, actor and martial artist Bruce Lee, cast him as villain Colt in 1972’s The Way of the Dragon, and late Hollywood legend Steve McQueen then encouraged Norris to continue acting.

His most popular role came in 1993 as the titular character Ranger Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger.

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After the CBS show ended in 2001, Chuck continued playing lead roles in movies until 2006, while his last major film appearance came in 2012 with The Expendables 2.

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Netanyahu says idea Israel dragged US into Iran war ‘fake news’

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Netanyahu says idea Israel dragged US into Iran war 'fake news'

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has rejected accusations that he dragged US President Trump into the war with Iran.

Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Benjamin Netanyahu also denied he “misled” Trump, saying that no-one could tell the US leader what to do.

Israel’s strike on Iran’s South Pars this week – part of the world’s largest natural gas field – led to a spike in energy prices and Donald Trump posting that he had not known about the attacks in advance.

The fallout raised questions over how united Israel and the US remain in their war aims and Netanyahu has said Trump requested there be no further such attacks on energy targets.

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Iran has retaliated by striking an energy complex in Qatar and attacking other energy targets in the Gulf.

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Two arrested after class A drugs found in Bridlington

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Two arrested after class A drugs found in Bridlington

A woman, 32, and a man, 28, were arrested by Humberside Police after a quantity drugs were found in a vehicle the woman was driving in Bridlington town centre on Thursday (March 19).

The pair were detained on suspicion with intent to supply the class A drugs and the woman was also arrested on suspicion of driving whilst under the influence of drugs.


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A statement from the force said: “Both the man and the woman were interviewed and have now been released on bail whilst officers from Bridlington’s Criminal Investigation Department continue extensive enquiries.

“Proactive stops of this nature are only possible as a result of information received from the public, and we encourage you to continue speaking to us to assist us in delivering a safer, stronger community.

“Incidents such as this support the work we do collaboratively with our partner agencies as part of the Clear, Hold, Build strategy.

“You can also report online, via 101 or always call 999 in an emergency.

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“If you wish to remain anonymous, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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Beer festival to celebrate heritage in Blackfriars, Newcastle

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Beer festival to celebrate heritage in Blackfriars, Newcastle

Now in its second year, the three-day festival is a collaboration between Blackfriars Restaurant and St Dominic’s Brewery in Newcastle – running from May 22 to 24. 

Rebecca Armstrong, general manager at Blackfriars and organiser of the event, said: “We’re delighted to bring the Beer Festival back for a second year – and with an even bigger line-up.

Blackfriars beer festival in 2025 (Image: Supplied)

“It’s a chance to toast Newcastle’s brewing heritage while supporting a charity that makes a real impact in our communities.

“Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply looking for a brilliant day out, there’ll be something for everyone.”

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The festival will feature eight breweries, including Flash House and Wear Beer.

Blackfriars beer festival in 2025 (Image: Supplied)

St Dominic’s, Blackfriars’ onsite brewery launched in 2024, will showcase its growing range of beers, including a Porter, Blonde and Triple alongside other styles.

Visitors can take part in tasting sessions throughout the weekend, with opportunities to meet the brewers and learn about their craft.

The event draws inspiration from medieval “Church Ales” – gatherings where brewers sold beer to raise money for community causes.

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Blackfriars beer festival in 2025 (Image: Supplied)

Staying “true to that tradition”, £1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the Newcastle United Foundation.

The foundation uses the power of football to improve lives across the region.

The festival will be held in Blackfriars’ all-weather, dog-friendly Cloister Garden and promises live music from singer-songwriter Sam Rea, BBQ street food and expanded merchandise stalls.

Brewing has long been part of Blackfriars’ history.

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Dominican friars brewed ale on the site centuries ago, and the location later served as a meeting place for Newcastle’s Brewers’ Guild.

Today, the festival continues the tradition by uniting the region’s brewing community.

Tickets cost £9.50 and include a St Dominic’s-branded schooner, festival brochure, and a first beer.

They are available from the Blackfriars Restaurant website or contact 0191 261 5945.

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Blackfriars is located on Friars Street, Newcastle, NE1 4XN.

Updates about the beer festival can be found by following @blackfriarsrestaurant on Facebook and Instagram.

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Quiet road turns ‘manic’ amid search for man after fatal Wisbech river crash

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Cambridgeshire Live

A person said it “all kicked off” on the night a car containing five teenagers crashed into a Cambridgeshire river. A teenage girl’s body has been recovered, while a man is still missing.

Emergency services were called to the crash in North Brink, Wisbech at around 8.20pm on Tuesday (March 17). A Volkswagen Polo had crashed into the River Nene along the road.

The body of Eden Bunn, 16, from Sutton Bridge in Lincolnshire, was found on Wednesday (March 18). Declan Berry, 18, from Wisbech, is still missing.

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Three other teenagers, including two 16-year-old girls and an 18-year-old boy, managed to escape the car and were taken to hospital. One person who lives on North Brink, and asked to remain anonymous, told CambridgeshireLive about the night of the crash.

He said: “We saw fire engines on the night, but that’s all we saw. [But] that’s when it all kicked off.”

The man described North Brink as normally a “quiet road”. However, he added: “Except it’s [currently] being used as a diversion at the moment [for Barton Road]. It’s been manic down here since.”

Searches of the River Nene continued on Friday (March 20). Tributes have been paid to Eden and Declan at the crash scene, with flowers laid on the ground.

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On Thursday (March 19), Eden’s family paid tribute to her. Her family described her as the “kindest” and “most loving girl”.

They added: “Her horses – Daisy and Dolly – were her world, and she was ours. Words cannot describe the tragedy that will stay with us until we are able to meet her again.”

Declan’s family said: “We are absolutely devastated beyond words and ask for privacy during this tragic time.”

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