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May 2026 monthly tarot horoscope: Your star sign’s forecast

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April 2026 monthly tarot horoscope: Your star sign’s forecast
Ready for a new month? (Picture: Getty/Metro.co.uk)

May brings growth, vitality and grounding energy, helping us to plant our feet in the right foundations and put our weight to something meaningful.

The opening of a Full Moon in Scorpio, bringing hidden truths to the surface and asking for emotional honesty, especially around power, trust and what we’re ready to release.

Just days later, Pluto turns retrograde, nudging us into a quieter, internal transformation. This is shadow work territory: subtle, profound, and ultimately empowering.

Mid-month, the New Moon in Taurus offers a welcome reset. After the emotional intensity, we’re invited to slow down, stabilise and focus on what truly sustains us — financially, physically and emotionally.

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Looking for more insight?

Join my magical, mystical tarot club – where we explore the cards through challenges, lessons, guided meditations, and rituals. Metro readers can enjoy a free month at Insider level using this link.

Or, try an Everything Answered reading to delve deeper into all your burning questions.

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Then, as Venus moves into Cancer, love softens and connections deepen, so by the time Gemini season begins, the mood lifts.

The month closes with a Full Moon in Sagittarius, reminding us to zoom out, seek meaning, and trust the bigger picture.

Let the tarot guide you through this journey from depth to lightness, from release to renewal. May is going to be fulfilling.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

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Act on that wanderlust (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Aries for May: The Hierophant, The Chariot, Five of Cups

Meaning: There are two good ways to ‘get over something’, Aries. The Five of Cups shows you’re right at the tail end of that process, feeling like this is the final dark before the new dawn… and you’re right.

First piece of advice comes from The Hierophant — seek to understand the deeper lessons and wisdom from your experience. Enough time has passed that you can examine things more dispassionately and find a fresh angle. There are learnings here that will help and uplift you.

Second piece of advice comes from The Chariot — go on an adventure, a journey, a trip, a quest into the unknown, a change of scene and landscape. New territory = new opportunity. You are ready to branch outside of your current comfort zone, routine and everyday habitat and find new places to grow, roam and enjoy different experiences. Travel changes you. Seek this route.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

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Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Look back to move forward (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Taurus for May: The Magician, Ten of Swords, Six of Cups

Meaning: The past is calling your name… and something is going to return to your life, but not as you once knew it. This will be a reimagined and fit-for-purpose now version.

The Six of Cups is the nostalgia and childhood memory card, or inner child yearnings. Something is nagging at your memory, and is ready to be acknowledged and reinvented. The Magician is your powerful creative side coming to life, as a result of this memory. You realise you always liked or were good at something and this is perhaps the key to your happiness and success now, in the present.

Realising this and activating it enables you to cut ties with a chapter you’ve long since tired of. Maybe this is about changing what you do at work, where you live, your social or leisure time pursuits, your friendship circle, or even your love life. The past holds the answers and the key. Go back to Memory Lane and discover what’s been lost.     

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Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Death is the tarot’s transformation card (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Gemini for May: Death, Page of Coins, The Fool

Meaning: You have reached the end stages of a long chapter in your life, as shown by the transitional Death card, and it’s time to embrace a fresh start. This could be linked to anything, but you will know it because the energy is fading, false or turning negative. The ‘good stuff’ has been used up, the natural life cycle is waning.

The Page of Coins hints at this linking to work, wealth, home or health, and also hints that your current priority is to research, study and learn about your next option. There is some homework to be done (good; you love it) so you can plan a shrewd pivot move.

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The Fool says that things will be kicking off before the end of Spring- this might involve travel or new technology — but it will all happen, once it starts, quickly and escalate fast. This is a whole new era, and maybe your most successful yet! Be led by your best hopes.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

Now is about creating solid foundations (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Cancer for May: Six of Wands, Nine of Coins, Ten of Wands

Meaning: May holds a great deal of good luck for you, so take chances, play bold hands and embrace risky moves — they may well pay off handsomely.

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The Six of Wands gifts you with the presence of Lady Luck for all of May and half of June. Right up to your birthday season! And what you pursue here should be for long-term gain. The Nine of Coins asks you to think about the long game, the coming decade, the foundations you can start building now that will last and grow long into the future.

Don’t overdo it, or think that Rome should be built in a day. The Ten of Wands just wants you to make initial moves, put down markers, pitch and apply. This whole project may takes months and years to complete, and that’s okay, you have time. No pressure or rush or stress. Mindful moves in pursuit of something long-term that might require a bit of luck to get it moving (because fortune favours you right now).

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

July 24 to August 23

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Go your own way (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Leo for May: Four of Cups, The Hermit, The Emperor

Meaning: We often spend much of our life running away from our true calling or nature. Perhaps trying to be someone else, impress others, compare and copy their best traits whilst suppressing our own worst ones. It’s all pointless — you are who you are, my friend, and Leo you are a born leader!

The Four of Cups asks you to zoom in on your regal, authoritative and powerful side. It’s there! It’s a gift from the cosmos and it’s time to bring it to the foreground and work with it. The Emperor is your tarot talisman or ally at this time. He brings an invitation to mimic and mirror your leadership idols, to make different moves to shift the power dynamics in your relationships and career circles. He wants you to rise, take control, accept ownership.

The Hermit shows this is a period of deep personal growth and transition, shining a light on many things in your past and present, and will take from now until October to fully manifest. A work promotion or even self employment opportunity feels very likely too.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

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Virgo

August 24 to September 23

Try to learn from this (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Virgo for May: Five of Wands, Queen of Coins, Four of Coins

Meaning: Dissatisfaction is an uncomfortable, sometimes unwelcome, feeling but it serves a great purpose. It directs our focus to what we could change, remove or improve upon to restore a sense of pride and contentment.

Use this feeling as a messenger and guide. The Five of Wands reveals it is calling on you. And it’s likely that this is something linked to work, wealth, home or health as shown by the Queen of Coins, and maybe something you’ve not taken fully accountability for, maybe left for someone else to manage or sort out. But they’re not doing it. Or not doing it to your standard, more likely.

So… the Four of Coins asks you to step in and shake it all up. Don’t just ‘take it back’, try to find a new way forward that uses the best that you each have to offer and tackles this in a totally new way. This will be inventive, successful, and renewing. It could lead to more shared projects, that actually work.

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Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

Who’s the backstabber in your circle? (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Libra for May: Three of Swords, Ten of Coins, Queen of Coins

Meaning: This card trio makes me think ‘there’s a fly in your ointment’. So while everything is going to turn out great, feels hopeful, and the potential is all there for success and prosperity, first, you really should remove that fly!

The Ten and Queen of Coins see you setting yourself up for long-term wealth, home, work and health success. You’re doing all the right things, or trying to, and it’s already yielding results. You feel you know what the right alchemy and mix of activity and priority is for you right now. It’s just a matter of sticking to it.

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Back to that fly… The Three of Swords is a betrayal/backstabber/unkindness card, and suggests something small but spiteful in your realm that requires nipping in the bud, before it grows any bigger and can do any real harm. You know what it is. I suspect you wish it would take care of itself or fade away, but it’s won’t. You need to acknowledge it and oust it. Then, all will be well and you will feel in control, powerful and validated in your position. Take this step.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

It might be time for some Sun (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Scorpio for May: Page of Wands, The Sun, Four of Wands

Meaning: You have outgrown certain surrounds or situations (you’ll be feeling frustrated, bored or irritated in these places, or with these folk) and you’re ready for the next level, a bigger space, a new role, as shown by the promoting Four of Wands. Time to rise, Scorpio!

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The Page of Wands asks you to embrace this leap and try lots of different ways and means to do it, there’s always more options than you think. Don’t be put off by first impressions or initial explorations — keep at it, something will move and reveal the right opening for you alone.

The Sun blesses this upwards climb with great joy, luck, success and prosperity — this is exactly what you’re meant to be doing right now, this is your ideal path. Onwards and upwards. And, as a reward, maybe The Sun also thinks you should book a holiday!

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

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Action is needed, not just wishes (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Sagittarius for May: Nine of Cups, Nine of Swords, King of Swords

Meaning: You are a natural and powerful manifester but you need to remember that actions count, they are what really make the difference in generating momentum and change. You can’t just ‘wish something away’, and though you know this, you still do it anyway!

The Nines of Cups and Swords sees you hoping your worst fears would evaporate, take care of themselves, or be removed by a saviour. None of that will happen, but the King of Swords visits with you this May to bring the strength of intellect and rationality. You feel dispassionate enough to look these worries full in the eye, and decide what to do about them. None are as bad or scary as you fear — your mind has played tricks on you.

Everything has a solution, a way through, an exit. Find the ‘playbook’ to your troubles and play the right moves and, by June, you could be free of all of this angst and moving ahead with shrewd plans and schemes. Let the King of Swords lead.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

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Capricorn

December 22 to January 21

Help make this right (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Capricorn for May: Five of Swords, Judgement, Justice

Meaning: You are the bringer of justice this May, Capricorn, and you get to pass the judgment, execute the amendments, and enjoy the benefits of taking responsibility for this mess! Folk will respect how you handle it, and that will pay back in unexpected ways down the line.

The Five of Swords shows there is a conflict in your realm, a fundamental schism of opinion. Judgement reveals you can see why each person holds their position and what the appropriate compromise or truce position would be, and you hold the necessary respect of each person to suggest and broker this proposal. So do it.

Justice shows a good outcome will emerge, order will be restored, wrongs will be righted, and people will feel that you did them a good turn with your subtle intervention.

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Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 22 to February 19

Don’t be too proud to change your mind (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Aquarius for May: The High Priestess, Temperance, King of Wands

Meaning: A change of heart, at a very deep and lasting level, stabilises your mind and clears away all the fog. Once you can see clearly, you can think clearly, and this leads to a new purpose that feels totally authentic and aligned with right where you’re actually at (vs wish to be, or hoped to be). Reality bites!

The High Priestess and Temperance work together to bring you a soulful shift or change of perspective which casts new light on where you’re at, and why. And it’s helpful. This new understanding makes you feel stable, secure, ‘right’ about things.

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Then, with this solid foundation, the King of Wands is unleashed! Purpose, power, adventure, magic energies and forces. You feel like you’re ready to embark on a new quest because the challenge and goal is so obvious and clear to you. This is going to be great!

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Make a wish, Pisces (Picture: Kerry King/@inlovewithcameras)

Tarot cards for Pisces for May: Seven of Cups, Ace of Wands, The Star

Meaning: Miracles and magic for you this May, Pisces! How delightful! The Star is a miracle card, bringing you a dream come true, a wish fulfilled and fully granted by your own personal genie (can you see him yet?). Look out for sparkles, glimmers, flashes, comet trails and fairy lights. They’re a signal that you can make your wish and take a step towards it!

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The Seven of Cups brings your imagination to its full force, which is some going! You’re one of the most creative star signs and naturally artistic. The Ace of Wands has you starting a new creative class, project, role, or challenge.

Get busy doing something expressive and whimsical, something that puts an enchanting layer of meaning over the top of everyday life, a hyper-real filter and glow up. You can make everything feel more alive and interesting. This is your gift to share with others.  

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Kerry King has been reading, teaching and creating tarot for 30 years. Join her magical, exclusive Tarot Club for forecasts, predictions, lessons and readings straight to your inbox. Enjoy one month free for all Metro readers (no lock-in or commitment) over on Patreon.

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Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

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Patients could pick up prescriptions from automated dispenser under new plans

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Cambridgeshire Live

The applicant hopes that the machine would mean reduced waiting times, prevent unnecessary journeys and be convenient for patients to collect medicines when they want

Plans for an automated prescription collection machine outside a health centre have been submitted to Fenland District Council. Permission has been sought to install a Pharmaself24 machine outside The Riverside Practice and the pharmacy on Marylebone Road in March.

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If approved, it would allow patients to collect prescriptions from the dispensing unit at their convenience to reduce waiting times and improve pharmacy workflow. The application states that the collection point would allow the pharmacy to reduce the need for home deliveries, reducing its carbon emissions.

The application says: “The benefits to the customers are reduced waiting times, avoiding unnecessary journeys and allowing the convenience to collect medicines when they want (for example on their way to or from work, shift workers, carers and on Sundays etc). This is particularly useful for repeat prescriptions and working patients who are unable to collect prescriptions during opening hours.”

Pharmacy staff dispense the medicines as normal and then load the dispensed bags securely into the machine using barcode technology. To collect their prescriptions, patients would be notified that their prescription is ready and provided with a one-time-use-only PIN number, rather than any patient details, to collect the medicine.

According to the plans, it only takes a few seconds. The collection PIN numbers would be provided to the customers by SMS message.

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The plans describe the Pharmaself24 as a self-contained, secure, vandal-resistant, machine. It would be fitted into the wall of the pharmacy and feature the business logo, a touch screen, credit card reader, and collection flap.

The collection flap is automatically locked when patients are not collecting the prescriptions and the machines have a capacity of up to 180 dispensing bags. The machine would not be loaded with controlled drugs including all Schedule 2 or Schedule 3 medicines that fall under the normal safe custody requirements.

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Emergency services called out to Scarborough Bridge in York

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Emergency services called out to Scarborough Bridge in York

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Antoine Griezmann: Can he win Champions League with Atletico Madrid?

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Griezmann has made 494 appearances and scored 212 goals for Atletico Madrid

Antoine Griezmann’s significance at Atletico Madrid goes far beyond his numbers. He is regarded as their greatest player, not just a goalscorer, but more importantly as the most complete expression of what the club stands for.

Simeone spoke about him with genuine emotion, even saying he loves him. Thierry Henry thanked him publicly a couple of weeks ago for everything he has given to football. He is not just a likable character with a very positive leadership style, but someone that makes everyone around them better.

For a whole generation of fans, Griezmann is Atletico. Apart from his two-year spell at Barcelona, he has been the constant reference point, the face of the team. His return, after a difficult and unpopular departure, could have been complicated, but the way he came back, apologised, and reconnected with the fans only strengthened that bond.

Griezmann embodies the perfect Simeone player – total commitment, relentless work-rate, and the willingness to put his talent at the service of the team. He sacrifices, he leads by example, as well as fully embracing the manager’s authority – you don’t always see that from a World Cup-winner in a team that rarely secures the biggest trophies.

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Interestingly, his time hasn’t been defined by a long list of silverware – he has won the Spanish Super Cup, the Europa League and the Uefa Super Cup with Atletico.

Instead, his legacy is built on something else that will remain for a long time. He represents the ideal Atletico footballer, someone who combines quality with effort.

But also someone who could have gone to other pastures as well as Barcelona, alhough when he did, he felt he had left home.

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Grand Wedding Fayre returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall

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Grand Wedding Fayre returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall

The Grand Wedding Fayre, organised by Diamond Events, will be held at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Sunday, May 10, from 1pm to 4pm and promises some of the region’s finest wedding suppliers.

Bernie Sowa from Diamond Events said: “We have been hosting wedding fayres at Middlesbrough Town Hall since 2010 and it is one of our favourite venues as it is easily accessible for everyone.

Previous fayre held at Middlesbrough Town Hall (Image: Diamond Events)

“The event has a real buzz and this year we have added a sale zone in the venue’s Fire Station where bridal, bridesmaids and flower girl dresses can be purchased on the day from as little as £10 so it’s a must for couples on a tight budget.”

The Grade II-listed Town Hall, which is 136 years old, serves as a popular wedding venue and is home to the Middlesbrough Register Office, hosting hundreds of ceremonies each year.

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Couples attending the event will be able to browse a wide range of wedding essentials, including dresses and suits, venue dressing, flowers, photography, and transport options.

Previous fayre held at Middlesbrough Town Hall (Image: Diamond Events)

There will also be live music, welcome drinks, entertainment, and prize giveaways throughout the afternoon.

Rachel May, principal business support and development officer for the Register Office at Middlesbrough Council, said: “The fayre is the perfect opportunity for couples to come and see what Middlesbrough Register Office has to offer.

“Couples will be able to take in the grand setting of the Town Hall and view the building’s stunning interior in addition to the beautiful ceremony rooms.

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“Our professional team will also be on hand to answer any questions.”

Previous fayre held at Middlesbrough Town Hall (Image: Diamond Events)

A special “sale zone” will offer attendees the chance to purchase dresses and outfits at discounted prices, with some items available for as little as £10.

Entry to the event is free, and Brides who pre-register will receive a VIP Goody Bag.

Brides can pre-register by visiting the Eventbrite website.

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Suppliers interested in exhibiting can get in touch via the Diamond Events UK website.

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‘I was overweight most of my life, but my new Belfast restaurant will set the standard for healthy fast food’

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Belfast Live

Nathan Sno has made a name for himself in restaurants across London, Australia and the US but he is coming home to Belfast to make his dreams of opening his own business a reality.

The Northern Irish chef is preparing to open a new food concept on Belfast’s busy Lisburn Road, which he hopes will “disrupt the industry” and bring a fresh new feel to healthy fast food in the city.

VINE, opening on May 8, was born from Nathan’s own relationship with food and learning its value in his life. The restaurant’s aim is to become a new standard for everyday eating – rooted in health, flavour and culture.

READ MORE: From 1630 licence to modern nightlife complex: How White’s Tavern became an unstoppable Belfast powerhouseREAD MORE: Co Tyrone business owner says being named in Forbes 30 Under 30 is ‘absolute dream’

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Speaking to Belfast Live, Nathan shared the realities of preparing to open a hospitality business in the city, how his passion for food shaped his life and his excitement to share his VINE concept with the people of Northern Ireland.

“VINE is built around solving a problem where most people want to eat well and feel great, but the current options force you to compromise between health, taste, and convenience,” he explained.

“Fast food became convenient but low quality. Healthy food became niche and inconvenient. VINE sits in the middle to redefine how it’s served and how it tastes.

“It was really born from my own experience. I used to have a very bad relationship with food, Most of my life I was overweight and never felt good about my body.”

Nathan explained that despite training and working hard on himself, his lack of understanding about the diet aspect of his life kept him back from his goals without even realising.

He continued: “Around 2019, I realised if I don’t feel good, I can’t do good. So I started taking both my physical and mental health seriously and when I did, my life changed drastically in every area and a lot of that came down to what I was putting in my body and my environment.

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“Not in any sort of extreme or restrictive way, but with understanding and intention.

“Beyond the food, I started to realise how much your environment shapes you. The people you’re around, the spaces you spend time in, it all impacts how you think, how you feel, how you live.

“So while VINE is rooted in food it’s equally about creating an environment where the right people end up in the same room. People who care about how they live, how they feel, and how they show up.”

Before there was VINE or a chef working in Michelin Star establishments, there was a little boy who fell in love with food while watching his mum in the kitchen.

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“Food was always a big part of our house. I lived with my mum she worked a lot but she cooked properly every day, no matter what,” Nathan added.

“In my family, food wasn’t just something we ate, it was also how we showed care and spent time together.

“I started working in a kitchen when I was 11 – I just wanted to work and make my own way do something for myself so after pleading for a long time, my mum gave in and got me a job as a dishwasher and I worked my way up from there.

“Since that I was hooked. I was never academic, a little rebellious and rough around the edges, but food was one thing I could do that made people happy.”

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His passion for food took him around the globe and to some of the “most exciting” kitchens in the world, becoming a head chef at a restaurant in Australia when he was only 20 years old, before stepping back to enter the world of Michelin Star dining.

Nathan continued: “I reached sous chef at 1 Michelin star in Mayfair and over about 3 years, I completed stages across more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants around the world, including The French Laundry, Eleven Madison Park, Frantzén and Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.

“Those environments taught me standards at a level I never knew existed, it was invigorating – I learnt discipline under immense pressure but more importantly, I learnt about respect for ingredients, process and the craft of cooking.

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“What I took from it wasn’t just how to cook at a high level it was a way of working and thinking and a level of care and detail that most don’t consider, and that is exciting when you get to share it with others.”

Six years ago, he stepped away from the kitchens to found Food Story Media, a global creative business built around the idea that food is more than a product. His company has worked internationally across hospitality and global brands, shaping how food is experienced and understood beyond the plate.

But it was while he was working in the high-end restaurants that got the wheels turning in his head into what would eventually become the concept behind VINE – “why does the highest standard exist at the top end, but disappear in what people eat every day?”

VINE’s menu is built around bowls where customers can choose from signature bowls or build your own – choosing high-quality proteins, sides and sauces.

Nathan explained that it is “wholesome and flavour-driven food that makes you feel good” and will go beyond the idea of a typical salad bar.

“It’s simple on the surface but everything is made from scratch,” he added. “We don’t buy anything in and take no shortcuts. Every ingredient is there for a reason.

“The goal is that you can eat this food every day and feel good doing it.

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“There’s a strong food scene here, but when it comes to premium, health-focused food, there’s still a gap. We’re here to raise that standard.”

With just over two weeks until VINE opens on the Lisburn Road, Nathan has been documenting the reality of starting a restaurant online with his followers.

“It’s been tough. It’s two steps forward, one step back most days.

“There’s a lot that people don’t see – long days, constant problem solving, things going wrong and having to fix them quickly.

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“People see the end result, but not what it takes to get there. It’s not glamorous, it’s relentless. But that’s what it takes to build something that actually matters,” he explained.

“I feel more focused than I ever have. There’s pressure, but it’s the kind of pressure that comes from caring deeply and stepping into something that I’ve trained for my whole life.

“We open on the 8th of May, and it feels very real now. My mum actually messaged me the other day and reminded me that I’d been talking about opening a restaurant since I was 10 years old.

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“After all the adventure and travels around the world, it feels like I’ve come back to what I was always meant to do.”

Looking ahead to opening, he said that he thinks customers will get what VINE is about from the minute they walk through the door – food, energy, people and culture.

He concluded: “VINE is for people who live with intent and care about how they show up in their life. It won’t be for everyone but for the people it is for, it will make complete sense.

“Our mission is to make living well the standard, not the exception. So this is just the beginning.”

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

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here’s what an expert says you need to know

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here’s what an expert says you need to know

Plug-in solar panels are expected to officially go on sale in the UK in the next few months for around £500. But there are quite a few obstacles for the government and householders to overcome before this becomes the easy-to-use option that is popular in other European countries.

Plug-in solar typically consists of one or more panels, which can be mounted on the sides of a balcony (or in the garden), and then connects to the house via an inverter. The inverter converts the type of electricity that the panels generate to the voltage and frequency used by the grid.

In theory this power can be fed into a home via a standard plug. This has not been possible in the UK for safety and regulatory reasons, but these regulations are now being amended to allow this, provided the panels meet new safety standards.

In Germany, millions of panels like these were in use in 2025. The German-owned supermarket Lidl and British-owned Iceland are already working with the UK government to put them on sale in the UK. These panels could produce around 200–500kWh per year, about 10% of a typical household’s energy, depending on how the system was positioned.

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What the government needs to do

The government’s plans will allow plug-in installations of up to 800W, subject to several guidelines. But it’s still not clear if there’s going to be any changes to planning laws which might be needed. Tenants would also need to check with their landlord in a shared development (as balcony solar could affect the building insurance, which is often shared across the block). There may also be restrictions under planning law for people living in a conservation area.

To get optimum power, you would want to tilt the solar panels. But this may also be contrary to existing planning rules. Without this angle, performance could be cut by 30-45%. Do planning rules need to change on this?

The government is promising new safety standards and “anti-islanding” measures for these kits. “Anti-islanding” refers to the danger that the plug prongs are live for a short time after being unplugged or if the grid was to go down and the panels continued to feed power into the house with no way to use the power. Some form of safety mechanism is needed to stop the flow of electricity in these cases.




À lire aussi :
Plug-in solar panels are the latest green energy trend – here’s what you need to know

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The professional body, the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and trade association the Electrical Contractors Association have already raised some concerns about use of this type of solar panels. It’s clear that some UK homes have older electrical systems that won’t cope with plug-in solar. Previous UK building standards haven’t factored in power being fed into houses via a plug in this way.

While some of these plug-in devices available online are good quality, others are cheaply made, which is another concern. There needs to be an industry standard and enforcement.

Plug-in solar panels are popular with renters in Germany.

What householders need to think about

For most people living in houses (rather than flats) it’s going to be fairly straightforward, but some (including those in conservation areas) may need planning permission. Most people should also check with their insurers.

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Balcony solar is not ideal for everyone. If your balcony is shaded part of the day or north facing you may gain little benefit. It’s worth checking this.

You will still have to notify your local district network operator, who maintain and fix your network. This is different from your energy company. You will also need to fill in a G98 notification. This online form tells your electricity supplier that you have a solar system that will be feeding power into the grid. These forms are usually filled out by electricians. It’s not clear yet if householders or tenants will be able to handle these applications themselves.

You’ll need a weatherised external plug for a unit on your balcony and to connect to your house. If you are calling out an electrician to install that, it might be safer to just have the system wired into the mains directly. But you can’t just run a cable in through an open window as that wouldn’t be safe. Also having an open window would let heat escape, and homes typically use more energy on heating than on electricity, potentially wiping out any benefits from the solar kit.

Another consideration is what to do with the power itself. The price paid by the grid for householders supplying excess energy is often a lot less than the price of buying electricity from the grid, so householders really want to use as much of that power themselves as possible. One solution to this is to buy a battery. While these can cost several hundred pounds, it means you can charge the battery during the day and then use the power at night. So, a battery improves flexibility, but it also increases costs and shortens the payback period.

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The government hopes that plug-in solar could encourage more people to start using solar, which might then encourage investment in larger installations such as on rooftops, which can produce far more power. However, it’s worth remembering that in Germany it worked in reverse, first came rooftop solar (supported by government subsidies) and then balcony systems filled in the gaps.

By quickly addressing some of these practical issues, the government can encourage a wider shift to solar power.

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I’m A Celeb star claims warning about contract felt like ‘rap over the knuckles’

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Daily Mirror

One campmate has alleged that sections of their contracts have been flagged to them following the heated debate at the show’s finale last week that resulted in Gemma and Sinitta storming off set

The I’m a Celebrity cast have reportedly been “reminded” about key clauses in their contracts after the past week’s drama.

The I’m A Celebrity stars have been left divided over Jimmy Bullard and Adam Thomas’ ongoing feud as they take sides. During the explosive final took place live in London last Friday night the row was so severe between the campmates that Sinitta and Gemma Collins stormed off, and Ant clashed with David and Jimmy.

But now one campmate has alleged that sections of their contracts, including bringing the show or ITV into disrepute, have been flagged to them.

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READ MORE: Brit wrestling fan last seen at WWE event found dead in Las Vegas as devastated family pay tributeREAD MORE: I’m A Celeb’s Craig Charles drops clue about more off-camera drama and addresses bullying claims

The series first took a dramatic turn when David Haye was accused of bullying Adam after he ruled himself out of a trial. He called the actor weak and later doubled down, claiming that the Waterloo Road star was using his arthritis to get out of doing Bushtucker Trials and challenges.

David Haye came under fire after making a string of sexist comments. During one scene, he also branded co-star and series winner Adam Thomas “useless” after the Waterloo Road actor explained he wasn’t well enough to take part in a trial. Adam battles psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint inflammation and stiffness. When this was explained, Haye stated he didn’t “give a s**t”.

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Adam was also at the centre of a row with Jimmy Bullard. He was left angry when Jimmy quit the show mid-trial, which could have tanked Adam’s time on I’m A Celeb, as they were doing the trial in pairs. Adam swore at Jimmy. Though he later apologised, Jimmy was insistent that Adam was “aggressive” and “intimidating”, and blasted ITV for not showing the full clip. ITV have said what they showed was a “fair and accurate” representation of what happened.

Following the on-screen drama a source close to one of the campmates has told The Sun: “This star felt they were being reminded about what is included in their contracts. They said it felt like a rap over the knuckles.”

An insider has shared key wording with The Sun, including: “They shall not at any time (without the specific prior consent of the ITV press and publicity team)… knowingly divulge, publish…any information in connection with this Agreement, the Programme, its production and exploitation, the Services, the other participants in the Programme, trade secrets etc.”

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It comes after claims emerged that David Haye is planning to sue ITV for up to £10 million. The former boxer has reportedly instructed a legal team and claims the edit of I’m A Celebrity… South Africa has caused “irreparable damage to his brand”.

The Mirror has approached ITV for comment.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

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Ryanair rule changes passengers may not know about

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Belfast Live

Ryanair has confirmed some major rule changes of late

Those with Ryanair flights booked for 2026 may be unaware that the budget carrier has recently introduced several changes to its policies.

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As with any trip abroad, familiarising yourself with all requirements before departure is essential. Not only does this increase the likelihood of a hassle-free journey, but it could also help you avoid unnecessary additional fees. Ryanair travellers are permitted a small personal bag that fits beneath the seat in front as standard, and the regulations surrounding this were updated last summer.

Following an EU law amendment, Ryanair was required to increase the dimensions of its personal bag allowance. Under the revised rule, passengers travelling with the budget airline are now entitled to carry hand luggage measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20cm, representing a 20% increase from the previous 40 x 20 x 25cm size restrictions.

As well as this, Ryanair passengers are now required to check in online, saving their boarding pass to a smartphone or tablet. As of November 2025, Ryanair has moved to “100% digital boarding passes via its app, eliminating paper passes to reduce costs, improve service, streamline rebooking, and save 300 tonnes of paper annually”.

Online check-in is available from 60 days before your scheduled departure if you have purchased a seat, or 24 hours in advance if you are happy to be allocated a complimentary seat. Regardless of seat preference, online check-in closes two hours before the scheduled take-off time.

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Once you have completed online check-in, you will receive your boarding passes and will need to save a copy. Failing to check in online will result in an airport check-in fee of £55 or 55 euros. To avoid the charge, ensure you have a valid boarding pass before heading to the airport.

For passengers without a smartphone or tablet, Ryanair will print a boarding pass free of charge, providing you have already completed your online check-in before arriving at the airport. Ryanair confirmed it will send reminders to booked passengers to complete their online check-in ahead of their departure.

And in an announcement made last week, Ryanair revealed that its check-in and bag drop services will shut one hour before departure – twenty minutes earlier than the current closing time of 40 minutes before take-off. The new policy will take effect from Tuesday, November 10.

The carrier stated that this measure is intended to allow passengers greater time to navigate airport security and passport queues. Ryanair’s Chief Marketing Officer, Dara Brady, said: “From Tues 10 Nov next, Ryanair customers will see airport check-in and bag drops close 60 minutes before scheduled departure, instead of today’s 40 minutes.

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“This will allow these 20% of our customers (who check in a bag) more time to clear through airport security and passport queues, and get to their departure gate on-time, especially during busy travel periods when some of these airport queues can be longer. We are also installing self-service kiosks at over 95% of Ryanair airports before October.

“This means a quicker bag-drop service, less queuing at airport desks, and an even more punctual service for the 20% of our customers who still wish to check-in a bag, while the 80% (who don’t check-in a bag) will be unaffected by this small 20 minute change, as they will continue to check-in online before they arrive at the departure airport and they go straight through airport security to their departure gate.”

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The Trump White House’s Latest Troll Post Is A Real Doozy

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The Trump White House's Latest Troll Post Is A Real Doozy

After the king spoke to Congress about the importance of the Nato alliance — a perpetual punching bag of President Donald Trump — the White House took to social media to post a photo of Charles and the president with the caption “TWO KINGS.”

The post seemed designed to polarise a nation that declared independence from England and the monarchy nearly 250 years ago.

In any case, the reaction was predictable, with Trump supporters loving their latest chance to own those danged liberals.

Meanwhile, Trump critics understood it was purposely designed to be a shitpost and mocked right back.

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Subscribe to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.

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Man United return, second Barcelona loan – Marcus Rashford’s transfer options

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Manchester Evening News

Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford has enjoyed his time at Barcelona and faces an important transfer decision this summer

Marcus Rashford’s future is set to be decided in the summer transfer window. The Manchester United star has thrived on loan at Barcelona this season.

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The 28-year-old has spent time away from Old Trafford since falling out of favour under former United boss Ruben Amorim. A loan spell at Aston Villa in 2025 was followed by the England international joining Barcelona last summer.

The Catalan club have an option to make Rashford’s stay permanent for around £26million and he has stated his desire to stay at Barcelona beyond the current campaign. However, there have been conflicting reports regarding Barcelona’s transfer plans, with claims that the Spanish side will attempt to renegotiate the £26m fee or seek a second loan deal.

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Sky Germany has claimed that Barcelona want to keep Rashford but are pushing for a second loan deal. The Manchester Evening News understands that United will reject Barcelona’s attempts for another loan spell and are unwilling to lower the transfer fee, forcing Hansi Flick’s side to pay £26m or allow the forward to leave.

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Meanwhile, United’s decision to part ways with Amorim earlier this term has possibly opened the door for Rashford to return to his boyhood club. Here’s a look at Rashford’s options ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Man United return

United boss Michael Carrick has previously insisted that a final decision is yet to be made on Rashford’s future. The pair are former team-mates and the 44-year-old also coached Rashford prior to becoming manager in January.

When asked about the Barcelona loanee earlier this month, Carrick said: “There’s decisions to be made on certain things, and obviously Marcus is in that situation.

“But at this point in time, nothing’s been decided. It will be, because it has to be at a certain point, but at this stage, there’s nothing to say.”

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It remains to be seen whether Carrick will be named United manager on a permanent basis. However, Rashford could potentially choose to stay at the club if a permanent move to Barcelona fails to materialise.

Joins Barcelona permanently

Barcelona have the option to buy Rashford for £26m this summer. The fee would arguably represent a bargain, having enjoyed a productive spell in Spain.

The United star has registered 13 goals and assists apiece in 45 appearances for his new club. Barcelona president Joan Laporta previously praised his contributions and outlined the team’s summer plan.

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“Marcus is performing very well with assists and goals,” Laporta told RAC1. He added: “We will try, in Barca’s interest, to ensure that Marcus can continue.”

World Cup audition

The summer tournament could work in United’s favour if Rashford is given a chance to impress on the world stage. He has regularly been involved in England squads under Thomas Tuchel.

Should Barcelona fail to finalise a move for Rashford, the forward is likely to attract interest from elsewhere. The Manchester Evening News has previously reported that United would be confident of getting in the region of £50m for the academy graduate.

He already impressed during his short spell with Villa last season and has further rebuilt his reputation during his time at Barcelona. If Rashford is also a standout player at the World Cup, United could receive a sum far exceeding the aforementioned £26m.

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Goal has reported that Juventus could enter the frame for his signature, while the likes of Newcastle United, Bayern Munich and PSG have all been tentatively linked by some outlets in recent weeks as well.

Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package

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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.

Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.

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