Annalise Candles & Gifts will close on 21 May as co‑owners Anne Scott and Lisa Fernley leave the business, and the candle‑making side will become fully online.

The pair, based at the Cowshed complex, said the decision comes as their lives have changed, with Anne pursuing a new path in holistic therapies.

The well-lit and clean shop. (Image: NQ)

Anne said: “We’ve had 11 amazing years making candles and running the gift shop.

“We’ve built a lovely little community here. The girls next door, the Cowshed community, we’re all friends. It’s just a really nice place to be.”

The shop has already begun winding down, with stock selling quickly.

Anne Scott. (Image: NQ)

Customers have been emotional about the closure, with many regulars stopping by to share memories.

She added: “I only put up the sale on Monday, and it’s all disappearing quite fast.

“People come in, they tell us their life stories, and they become friends.

“We’ve got an amazing following, and we’ve worked really hard for 11 years to create what we’ve created.”

Candles have been at the forefront of the shop’s identity. (Image: NQ)

Despite the physical shop closing, the pair are confident the candle business will continue to thrive online.

Anne said: “We’ve got a good reputation. People order from all over the country – Scotland, Ireland, everywhere. So yes, it will still go on.”

Mugs and gifts are for sale. (Image: NQ)

Reflecting on the end of an era, she added: “We’re sad, but we’re excited for the future as well. We’re very grateful to everyone for supporting us over the years.”

The unit is now being viewed by potential new tenants, marking the start of a new chapter for the well‑known spot in Horwich.

Anne said the support they’ve received “shows just how special the shop has become”.

Charlotte Berman, who made headlines after faking a Welsh accent for the duration of series three, has welcomed her daughter “little Zoe”, with husband Alexander.

The 34-year-old was a finalist in the BBC reality show which aired at the beginning of 2025 and told host Claudia Winkleman that if she won, she would use the prize pot to fund fertility treatment.

Charlotte shared the arrival of Zoe in a post to Instagram on Friday (May 1), with a photo of herself and her husband outside in a garden, smiling in the sunshine and holding their baby daughter.

The post also included a snap of a newspaper clipping with the birth announcement, which read: “Nicholson on 21st April 2026 to Charlotte Xara Louise and Alexander Thomas Helby, a daughter, Zoe Clara Florrie. So wanted and so loved.”

Charlotte told her 24,000 followers: “She’s here, our little Zoe.”

The comments were filled with congratulations, including from fellow Traitors contestants from past series, such as Judy Wilson, Linda Rand and Freddie Fraser.

Diane Carson wrote: “An absolutely HUGE congratulations! I couldn’t be more happy for you both!”

Maddy Smedley joked: “Massive congrats you guys!!! I wonder if Zoe will come out with a Welsh accent.”

Presenter Claudia also commented with many red heart emojis under the post.

The reality TV star announced her pregnancy over the festive period, sharing an image of her ultrasound among photos of her Christmas celebrations.

At the time, she wrote that she was “quietly excited”, and taking her pregnancy “one day at a time”.

The London-born traitor revealed her fertility struggles when she appeared on the hit show in January last year.

During an interview with the BBC, she was asked what she would spend the prize money on.

In response, she said: “There are a few things; we’re looking at going through fertility treatment soon, so money towards that would be great.”

She added: “A safari holiday would be incredible because why not celebrate if I win!”

Charlotte entered the show as a faithful, only to be recruited as a traitor in episode eight.

She was banished after arousing suspicion from her fellow contestants and finished in fifth place.

Celebrity Traitors series 2 rumours – who is taking part?

Although the official line-up of Celebrity Traitors series two is yet to be confirmed, there are some big names rumoured to be taking part.

The latest celebrity supposedly joining the cast is none other than EastEnders legend Ross Kemp, The Sun has claimed, who is best known as Grant Mitchell on the BBC soap.

An insider told the publication: “He loves Traitors and thinks it’s a programme on another level, which is why he really wanted to take part.

“Ross loved the mix of psychological intrigue paired with some of the very physical trials that the group have to complete – both suit him perfectly.

“He will be a huge hit with viewers who’ve watched him on screen for 36 years, and EastEnders fans in particular will be following him with interest.

“He signed up now because he’s at a point in his life where he wants to try new things and continue to challenge himself.

“Plus he knows The Celebrity Traitors won’t just be watched by people who are familiar with his work, but by younger viewers who may be less familiar with Ross, and this opens him up to a whole new audience.

“He’s also a very BBC name and this is another big BBC show.”

Other famous faces allegedly appearing in Celebrity Traitors series two, are:

• Richard E Grant
• Michael Sheen
• James Acaster
• Joanne McNally
• Dr Hannah Fry
• Amol Rajan

A BBC spokesperson told The Sun: “We are not commenting on speculation, and details for The Celebrity Traitors series 2 will be announced in due course.”

Newsquest has contacted the BBC for comment.

Are you looking forward to the next series of Celebrity Traitors, or do you prefer the civilian version? Let us know in the comments below.

It had appeared Mercedes’ dominance of the season was under threat as their rivals’ new packages slashed their advantage, with Norris converting that pole into sprint victory, but the 19-year-old Antonelli underlined his title credentials by claiming a third successive pole.

Mark Allen suffered one of the most painful defeats imaginable on the snooker table, but took it incredibly well, admitting he didn’t deserve to beat Wu Yize given the chances he missed.

Wu is into the World Snooker Championship final thanks to beating the Northern Irishman 17-16 in stunning fashion at the Crucible.

Allen had one foot in his first final, leading 16-14 and making what looked likely to be the match-winning break.

He spurned that chance then missed more in the next two frames, most notably fluffing the final black in the 32nd frame, a pot which was entirely straightforward for a player of his quality.

The Pistol got in again in the decider, but broke down and China’s Wu is into the World Championship final for the first time.

40-year-old Allen was in his third Crucible semi, with a final in Sheffield still not on his CV, but he was impressive in defeat to the 22-year-old.

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The next edition will look back on what has been a great World Championship yet again, so there’s no better time to sign up.

‘You don’t deserve to be in a World final if you’re missing balls like that [the final black in the 32nd],’ he told the BBC. ‘That was just pure pressure to be honest.

‘I’m normally pretty good under pressure but I didn’t handle it well today. I had two or three chances to close out the match, so credit to Wu. I had more than enough chances to win.’

On what he said to the winner at the end, Allen revealed: ‘I don’t know how much he understood, but I wished him good luck and said he played very well and I think he’s going to be a world champion.

‘Even though I’m devastated to lose that match, I think the right person is in the final. The way he plays is great for the game, scores heavy, pots some ridiculous long balls.

‘He just keeps potting, he doesn’t seem to mind the pressure. He stepped up and made a good clearance at 16-14, did what he needed to in the last.

‘All credit to Wu, if he doesn’t win it this time he’s going to win many world titles if he keeps playing the way he’s playing. But it’s a sore one for me, for sure.’

Wu started the match brilliantly, showing no signs of nerves on his first visit to the one-table set-up as he made five half-centuries in the first session to lead 6-2.

The second session could scarcely have been more different, though, with Allen winning five frames on the spin, including a 145 and a 121.

Then came the carnage of the 14th frame, the longest in Crucible history, as the black covered a corner pocked and both players nudged reds towards it without it dropping.

Allen eventually relented by potting the black, trying to avoid a re-rack as he had a lead, but went on to lose the frame and Friday night ended 7-7.

The next session was shared and they ended Saturday morning at 11-11, with Wu having made a run of 140 along the way.

Saturday night saw the first six frames shared, with the quality very high, but at 14-14, Allen finally broke away from Wu, making 65 and then pinching the 30th from behind.

The Pistol got in first in the 31st frame, but broke down on 45 and Wu pinched it, as he did the next two, in spectacular fashion.

The penultimate frame was incredible, with Allen having two prime bites of the cherry, firstly missing a red and then the final black for a place in the final.

Allen had another chance in the decider, but Wu made 71 to secure a clash with Murphy.

MORE: World Snooker Championship semi-final interrupted by ‘Epstein Files’ shout

MORE: Shaun Murphy responds to ‘like God’ John Higgins comment after Crucible clash

MORE: John Higgins ‘sick’ after nightmare moment in Shaun Murphy Crucible defeat

“I’ve loved exploring the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way this time around”

Dermot O’Leary is back in Northern Ireland for the new series of his hit show Dermot’s Taste of Ireland.

The TV and radio presenter is returning to our screens ready to take viewers on another memorable adventure exploring Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland’s amazing coastline.

Series two will begin airing on ITV1 and on the streaming service ITVX on May 2, featuring two of the most iconic coastal touring routes – the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way.

The 10-part series, produced by Rock Oyster Media and supported through the Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project, will follow Dermot as he explores his passion for the island of Ireland, its people and cuisine.

Journeying from Blackhead Lighthouse on the Causeway Coastal Route to Sligo’s Strandhill Beach on the Wild Atlantic Way, the second outing of this hit TV series showcases the magic of the island’s coastline.

Each episode will take viewers on a voyage to the heart of the coastal communities and highlight how these two routes make the perfect partner destinations for a coastal road trip. Click here to view a trailer for the second series.

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Julie Wakley, Tourism Ireland’s Head of GB, said: “We are excited for viewers to tune in to the second series of ‘Dermot’s Taste of Ireland’, this time showcasing the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way. These two iconic coastal touring routes are renowned for their breathtaking scenery, delicious local produce, vibrant cultural scene and exciting outdoor offering.

“There’s such a fantastic mix of unique and unmissable adventures to experience and viewers are sure to be inspired by Dermot’s journey and make plans to come and explore Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland for themselves.”

Commenting on this second series, Dermot O’Leary said: “Returning to the island of Ireland for series two of ‘Taste of Ireland’ has been another incredible experience and I’ve loved exploring the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way this time around.

“Filming this series gave me the chance to reconnect with a place I hold so dear, while also discovering a completely new side of the island through the people who live and work there.

“From time spent with farmers, bakers and fishermen to learning traditional skills and cooking with brilliant local chefs, it was a real deep dive into the communities behind the exceptional food.”

The production of this TV series complements ongoing collaboration by Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and Fáilte Ireland – in consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (Ireland) and the Department for the Economy (Northern Ireland) – to forge greater links between the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way.

The Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project is funded by the Government of Ireland through the Shared Island Fund.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our What’s On newsletter

A report was received by police early yesterday after a body was found on Seaburn Beach, off Whitburn Road, Sunderland, early on Friday (May 1).

The Northumbria force initially said the death of the woman was “unexplained” as efforts were made to identify her and to contact her relatives.

But, following further inquiries, the force issued a further statement today to say: “Just after 5am yesterday (Friday), we received a report that the body had been found on Seaburn Beach in Whitburn.

Police today (Sat May 2) ruled out any suspicious circumstances after the body of a woman was found on the beach at Seaburn, Sunderland, on Friday morning (Image: The Northern Echo)

“Emergency services attended the scene where the body of a woman was sadly located.

“A police presence remained in the area on Friday, while officers carried out further inquiries with partner agencies.

Read next … more emergency stories from The Northern Echo, by clicking here

Body of woman found on Seaburn Beach in Sunderland

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“Formal identification has now taken place, and the woman’s next of kin have been informed.

“Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, and a report will be prepared for the coroner in due course.”

Dr Inks, on Coniscliffe Road, has reopened its outdoor space under new ownership, with a dramatic redesign featuring bold colours, upgraded facilities and new entertainment features.

The garden has been completely reworked following the removal of a dividing wall to create one large outdoor area, with the space levelled and fitted with pink Astroturf.

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

New furniture has been installed and painted in blue, alongside blue and pink décor throughout the venue.

The revamp also includes a new sound system, additional televisions, improved lighting with floodlights and festoon lighting, upgraded heaters, and brand new guest WiFi both inside and outside.

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

A large Dr.inks mural has also been added to the space, described by the owners as a key visual feature that must be seen in person.

Scott Barratt and Tom Cullen owners of Dr.inks which has reopened (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The reopening comes after Scott Barratt, 27, from Darlington, and Thomas Cullen, 26, originally from Richmond, took over the venue earlier this year in March and began an extensive refurbishment shortly after gaining the keys.

Dr Inks first opened in 2018 and quickly became a popular nightlife spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and beer garden. However, in recent years, its popularity had declined and the venue was placed on the market.

A before and after in the Dr Inks Darlington beer garden following the major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Look inside the brand new beer garden that has re-opened at Dr Inks following a major revamp (Image: DR INKS DARLINGTON)

Speaking about the reopening and plans for the venue, Scott Barratt said: “When I used to work here, I thought I would always want to run it, but left for better opportunities. When I saw the price slash for it on sale, I knew now was the time to start.”

He added: “We want to take it back to how it was a couple of years ago. We are completely closing the garden to fully renovate it so that in the near future we can have garden parties.”

Scott also said: “We want people to come back and give us a try as it will be a completely different vibe now.”

Criminal Record has brought together a round-up of today’s biggest crime stories.

Every day on Criminal Record we will be bringing you a round-up of the biggest crime stories of the day.

If you love to read about crime in Scotland – this is the place to be every day.

Here’s what has been making the news across the country on Saturday.

Child killer and trans prisoner wedding axed

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A child killer and trans prisoner who were engaged to be married inside HMP Greenock have called off their engagement.

It is understood Alex Stewart and child killer Nyomi Fee split before Stewart was accused of a sex attack on a female prisoner at the prison two weeks ago.

Fee, 37, and biological male Stewart, 38, announced their engagement in 2021. Anger grew among female prisoners after persistent claims that the couple were given preferential treatment and were able to access each other’s cells.

A court case last year heard they had been able to enjoy sexual relations in the jail shower block and a communal area. But the couple are now telling prisoners they are “just friends”.

Fee subjected her two-year-old stepson Liam to appalling abuse before murdering him in 2014. She is serving a life sentence. Stewart, born Alan Baker, has been a main focus for prison policy reform campaigners.

READ MORE: Jail wedding between child killer and trans prisoner called off

Murder of two gangster pals remains unsolved

The murder of two gangster pals found dumped in a scrapyard remains unsolved 25 years later. In October 2001, the bodies of two men were next to a burned out black Volkswagen Golf car at the spot in Larkhall, Lanarkshire.

Both victims had been shot and were quickly identified as small time Lanarkshire criminals John Hall, 45, from Carluke and David Macintosh, 33, from neighbouring Wishaw.

Strathclyde Police launched a major inquiry led by Detective Superintendent John Carnochan. A team of more than 50 police officers were involved in the hunt for the killer or killers.

However door-to-door inquiries, CCTV checks, and numerous witness appeals failed to provide any significant leads or evidence leading to an arrest. Twenty-four years later no one has ever been charged.

READ MORE: Murder of two gangster pals found dumped in a scrapyard remains unsolved 25 years later

Man rushed to hospital after ‘stabbing’ in Glasgow

A man has been rushed to hospital after reportedly being stabbed on a busy street in Glasgow. The incident took place shortly after 8pm on Friday, May 1 when officers were alerted to a serious assault on Maryhill Road.

Emergency services, including Police Scotland and Scottish Ambulance Service, rushed to the scene in Maryhill in the north of the city.

A 32-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment after suffering serious injuries. His current condition is not yet known. An investigation has been launched by Police Scotland.

Detective Constable Scott Moran said: “This was a violent assault on the victim, and it is vital that we find out what happened, and trace whoever is responsible.“

READ MORE: Man rushed to hospital after ‘stabbing’ on busy Glasgow street

Teen found seriously injured on Scots street

A teenager has been rushed to hospital after being found seriously injured on a street in the early hours of the morning.

The alarm was raised at around 3:45am when police were alerted to a man seriously injured on John Wood Street in Port Glasgow on Saturday, May 2.

Emergency services, including Police Scotland and Scottish Ambulance Service, raced to the Inverclyde town. A 19-year-old man was taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow after suffering serious injuries.

An investigation has been launched to get to the bottom of exactly what happened and officers remain in the area so anyone with information or concerns can speak to them directly.

READ MORE: Teen found seriously injured on Scots street as cops lock down area

Reform candidate ‘attacked’ on Glasgow campaign trail

A Reform candidate has allegedly been attacked while campaigning in Glasgow. Councillor Thomas Kerr, one of the party’s candidates in the city, is said to have been assaulted while leafleting in Shettleston on Friday, May 1.

Police Scotland said it was made aware of an assault on a man at Strowan Road in the east end around 2.15pm on Friday. The force said that another man will be the subject of a report to the procurator fiscal.

A Reform spokesperson dubbed the alleged incident “unacceptable” and “no politician should be subjected to violence while out campaigning.”

Police Scotland said no-one was injured and another man will be the subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

READ MORE: Reform UK candidate ‘attacked’ while campaigning in Glasgow

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From big‑ticket museums to soft play classics, these ideas all work whether you’re planning ahead or salvaging a soggy afternoon at the last minute.

Always check websites before you travel, as opening times and prices can change, especially on bank holidays.

Hopetown, Darlington

Darlington’s new railway attraction celebrates the Stockton & Darlington Railway with locomotives, interactive galleries and under‑cover play spaces – ideal when the rain sets in.

Entry to the site, including the North Road Station Museum, Goods Shed, café and outdoor areas, is free, with some exhibitions and activities carrying a separate charge.

Hopetown is generally open 10am–4pm, Tuesday to Sunday, and is also open on bank holiday Mondays and during Darlington school holidays.

Pre‑booking a free site ticket online is recommended to manage capacity.

Locomotion, Shildon

Locomotion brings together an impressive collection of historic engines and railway vehicles in huge indoor halls at the birthplace of the railways.

Museum admission is free, with visitors encouraged to make a voluntary donation, and there is no need to pre‑book except for selected events.

It’s a solid choice for cost‑conscious families looking for a full day under cover when the weather is foul.

(Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

The bank holiday weekend sees a whole host of activities including mini steam engines on display, carousel rides and a film screening.

Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle

The Great North Museum: Hancock offers dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, natural history and hands‑on science exhibits, all in one free, family‑friendly space close to Newcastle city centre.

As with many Tyne and Wear museums, general admission is free, with possible charges only for some temporary exhibitions or special events.

Expect plenty to fill a wet afternoon, from interactive displays to family trails that keep primary‑age children busy.

Check Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums listings for latest opening hours and any bank holiday variations before you set off.

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Sunderland

Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens combines local history, art and natural history with an indoor tropical garden under a glass dome.

Admission to both the museum and Winter Gardens is free, with donations welcome and occasional charges for specific exhibitions or events.

Typical opening hours are 10am–4pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm–4pm on Sundays, though visitors are advised to confirm details, especially around bank holidays.

It’s an easy, low‑stress option when rain interrupts seaside or city‑centre plans.

The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle

The Bowes Museum delivers a grand “day out” indoors, with galleries dedicated to art, fashion, ceramics and decorative arts inside its landmark French‑style building.

Currently, a standard adult day ticket costs £20, or £22 with Gift Aid, while under‑18s, full‑time students and carers can visit for free.

Membership options are available for regular visitors and can offer better value over the year.

With family trails and activities, it works well for mixed‑age groups looking for something a bit more special than soft play on a wet bank holiday.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Life Science Centre, Newcastle

Life Science Centre in Newcastle is a hands‑on science attraction with changing exhibitions, a planetarium, play zones and making studios, particularly strong for under‑12s.

Current ticket prices list adults (18+) at £15 with a voluntary donation or £13.60 without, and children aged 3 and over at the same price; children aged 2 and under go free.

All exhibits, shows and activities in the science centre are included in the ticket price, making budgeting straightforward. Pre‑booking online is advised during busy periods such as school holidays and bank holiday weekends.

The Hullabaloo, Darlington

The Hullabaloo is a theatre and creative play space designed specifically for babies, toddlers and younger children, offering imaginative indoor play installations and performances.

Ticket prices vary depending on the show or activity, but many family performances and play sessions are kept low‑cost, with occasional free or pay‑what‑you‑decide events.

Sessions often need to be booked in advance, especially at weekends and in school holidays, so it is worth checking the current programme and prices online before heading over.

Its compact scale makes it a gentle, manageable rainy‑day option for families with very young children.

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Fun Shack, Seaham

Fun Shack Seaham is one of County Durham’s largest indoor play centres, packed with a giant play frame, slides, trampolines, go‑karts and a dedicated toddler village.

Recent price guides suggest toddlers (1–4) from around £5.49, children 5–12 from around £6.49 and adults or over‑12s from £1, with babies under 12 months free with an older sibling or around £2.50 otherwise.

Prices vary between term‑time, weekends and school holidays, and it’s best to check the website for up‑to‑date rates before you go.

Pre‑booking often secures the cheapest tickets and helps avoid disappointment on wet bank holidays.

Bowling, mini‑golf and arcades: Lane7 Durham / NAMCO Funscape

For older children and teens, an all‑in‑one bowling or arcade venue can rescue a rained‑off bank holiday plan. Lane7 Durham offers boutique‑style bowling and games, with bowling prices starting from about £9.50 per person, depending on time and day.

NAMCO Funscape at Metrocentre combines bowling, arcade games, dodgems and soft play, with family offers and deals available online.

One current guide price lists soft play at around £7.95 per child, with bowling and other activities bookable through their deals pages.

The Antrim man looked in pole position to reach the Crucible final, but missed a black off the spot to win

A ‘devastated’ Mark Allen suffered Crucible heartbreak as he lost a final frame shootout in the World Championship semi-final.

The Antrim man looked in pole position to reach the world final for the first time after taking a 16-14 lead in the first to 17 clash against Wu Yize.

He potted the final pink in the penultimate frame of the night and set up a straight black ball on the spot to claim victory. However, the tension and pressure of the occasion appeared to get to Allen who narrowly missed and gifted his Chinese opponent the frame.

Yize then took advantage in the deciding 33rd frame of the match to book a final date with England’s Shaun Murphy – Crucible champion in 2005.

For Allen, it’s another world final near miss – his third semi-final defeat at the Crucible – and that black on the spot will haunt him for some time.

“You don’t deserve to be in a world final if you are missing a ball like that, it’s just pure pressure,” said Allen right after the match. “I had two or three good chances to close out the match but didn’t do it.

“Even though I’m devastated to lose that match, I think the right person is in the world final. I wished him good luck, said he played very well. I think he’s going to be a world champion.

“All credit to Wu, if he doesn’t win it this time, he is going to win world titles in future. It’s a sore one for me.”

Yize, 22, will appear in his first world final tomorrow, looking to emulate country man Zhao Xintong who became the first Chinese player to win snooker’s biggest prize 12 months ago.

Even he had sympathy for Allen, considering the nature of the semi-final victory.

Yize told BBC: “I feel sorry for Mark. I was losing the match but I was able to catch the opportunity.”

The final is played over two days, starting on Sunday May 2nd and ending on Monday.

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