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Mexico: UK Foreign Office issues urgent warning as flights are cancelled due to drug cartel violence

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Mexico: UK Foreign Office issues urgent warning as flights are cancelled due to drug cartel violence

Travellers in the southwest Mexico state of Jalisco have been warned to stay indoors as violence erupted following the killing of a drug cartel kingpin. Footage on social media shows airline passengers seeking cover as Guadalajara airport comes under attack.

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the formidable leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed during a Mexican military operation with US assistance in the town of Tapalpa.

In the wake of the killing of the man widely known as “El Mencho”, violence has erupted in revenge across the state.

The Foreign Office is warning: “Serious security incidents have been reported on 22 February across the state of Jalisco, including in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, following a federal law-enforcement operation against organised crime in the municipality of Tapalpa.

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“Authorities in Puerto Vallarta have issued a public advisory to stay indoors. Routes to airports may be blocked. Incidents are also being reported in other parts of the country. You should exercise extreme caution, follow local authorities’ advice, including orders to stay indoors and avoid non‑essential travel in affected areas.”

The US Embassy in Mexico City urged American citizens throughout the state of Jalisco as well as some other parts of the country to “shelter in place until further notice”. The security alert warned of “ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity”.

Many flights to the airports in the popular Pacific resort of Puerto Vallarta and the World Cup 2026 host city of Guadalajara diverted and cancelled.

At least 30 flights departing from US, Mexican and Canadian airports for Puerto Vallarta have either returned to their starting points or diverted to other airports. Dozens more have been cancelled. As a result, many thousands of tourists in the Pacific resort who were expecting to leave on Sunday are stranded.

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Puerto Vallarta airport posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) saying: “By decision of the airlines, today, Sunday, February 22, 2026, all international operations and most of the domestic flights have been canceled.

“We urge passengers and users to remain calm and follow all instructions provided by airport personnel at all times.”

The statement added: “The situations reported in various parts of the state did not impact the airport’s internal operations or the safety within its facilities.

“The airport is under the protection of personnel from the National Guard (GN) and the Ministry of National Defense (Sedena), as part of ongoing coordination efforts with federal authorities.”

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Air Canada posted a message to passengers on X, saying: “Due to an ongoing security situation in Puerto Vallarta impacting the airport, Air Canada has temporarily suspended operations there today. We are monitoring the situation and in contact with local authorities who are working to resolve the issue.

“Customers are advised not to attempt to go to the airport unless their flight is shown as operating on aircanada.com, and will be directly notified of changes to their itineraries. We will share more information as soon as it becomes available.”

An expert on Latin America at the conflict monitoring group Acled warned of further instability.

Sandra Pellegrini said: “The killing of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes marks a significant operational development for Mexican forces, but the reported immediate highway blockades and arson attacks show how quickly cartels can mobilise retaliation to demonstrate continued control.

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“Past cases suggest leadership removals rarely reduce violence long term, and instead often trigger instability as factions compete for power.”

The latest warning does not affect the main resorts for British holidaymakers on the Caribbean coast, notably Cancun. The upsurge in violence is taking place 1,000 miles away.

The only cancellations at Cancun airport are to and from Guadalajara because of the security situation – and also some flights serving the New York area due to extreme winter weather in the northeast US. Sunday flights on Tui from Manchester and Birmingham, British Airways from Gatwick and Virgin Atlantic from Heathrow are all operating normally.

But the Foreign Office updated its advice late on Sunday to warn: “Security incidents have also been reported in other parts of Mexico. As the situation develops, wherever you are in Mexico, you should stay alert and follow local security advice.”

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The FCDO already warns against travel to many parts of Mexico because of drug-related violence. The official advice says: “Drug-related violence in Mexico has increased over recent years. Do not become involved with drugs of any kind.

“Some areas of Mexico have a high crime rate due to fighting between rival organised crime gangs. In these areas, there is a risk of being caught in the crossfire or of being mistaken for a gang member.”

Read more: The countries on the Foreign Office “do not travel” list

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Genesis Invitational: Rory McIlroy finishes one shot behind Genesis winner Jacob Bridgeman

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Rory McIlroy celebrates and Jacob Bridgeman holds the trophy at the Genesis Invitational

Rory McIlroy shot a four-under-par 67 but it was not enough to overhaul winner Jacob Bridgeman, who won by one shot at the Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles.

Northern Ireland’s McIlroy started the day six shots off the lead but despite making five birdies he could not catch American Bridgeman, who got over the line with a one-over-par 72 to finish on 18 under.

Bridgeman, who held a seven-shot lead early in the day, held back tears on the 18th green before sinking a three-foot putt for his first PGA Tour title.

He is also the first man to win the prestigious event in his tournament debut since 1975.

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Bridgeman’s victory continues his good start to the year having had two top-10 finishes in his opening four events, including last week’s eighth place at Pebble Beach.

The 26-year-old’s three bogies on the final day at the Riviera Country Club gave the chasing players hope, including countryman Kurt Kitayama, who finished tied for second with McIlroy on 17 under after carding a seven-under-par 64.

World number two McIlroy was even par after the first nine holes, but made four birdies on the back nine, including a brilliant hole-out from the greenside bunker on the 12th, to put pressure on Bridgeman.

A nervy closing three holes saw Bridgeman bogey 16 then leave his putt on 18 over three feet short, after McIlroy had drained a 30 footer to get within a shot, to ensure a tense final stroke in front of tournament host Tiger Woods.

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Bridgeman held his nerve though to claim a first PGA Tour title in style, with victory at one of the Signature Events moving him inside the top 25 of the world rankings for the first time.

England’s Tommy Fleetwood shot a four-under-par 67 to finish joint-seventh on 12-under, which included a slam dunk eagle with his approach shot on 15 from 173 yards out.

World number one Scottie Scheffler made a flying finish with his 65 seeing him recover from his bad start on Thursday to finish in joint 12th.

That meant an end to Scheffler’s brilliant run of 18 consecutive top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour.

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England’s Marco Penge, who was the joint-leader alongside Bridgeman after the second round, ended in tied for 16th place on 10 under.

Max Greyserman provided another big highlight of the day as he made a hole-in-one at the 14th, which illuminated an otherwise difficult day for him as he made four bogeys and a double bogey in his 73.

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Liverpool find fortune in unlucky season with latest last-gasp winner against Forest

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Liverpool find fortune in unlucky season with latest last-gasp winner against Forest

The decisive moment came seven minutes into added time. Alexis Mac Allister had seen a goal disallowed just moments earlier but bundled the ball in from close range to spark scenes of wild celebration both on the pitch and in the technical area after a second VAR review.

“My emotions are of happiness and relief because we did not play a good game,” said Slot. “We were the lucky ones scoring in extra time. If you score in the last minute, there’s always an element of luck but so many times this season we’ve experienced the opposite. The first-half was poor, probably the worst we have played up to now. Maybe our luck is turning.”

There were other positives for Slot to take, and how he has needed them after this season. This was Liverpool’s first clean sheet in consecutive away games in the league for a year. The response after such an abysmal first-half performance was also there, although Forest did not deserve to lose.

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Slot expressed his surprise before and after the game that Forest are in such a lowly position, and the home team will take encouragement from this performance. Though they performed admirably without reward under Vitor Pereira, their fourth head coach of the season, they remain in deep trouble.

Pereira disclosed that Chris Wood, last season’s leading scorer, is likely to return from a knee injury before the end of the season and he is desperately needed soon.

He said: “I am angry with football but we have to come back stronger and face the future with confidence. They have talent, quality and spirit. If they play the way they played in the first half, then we can get a lot of points. Of course I am sure that we have more than enough to survive.

“We need to keep the good things for the next game and prepare everyone to be ready. We need everyone to reach our target.”

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Tesco F&F releases modern brown leather jacket shoppers ‘love’

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Cambridgeshire Live

The leather jacket is an “on trend” piece to add to your wardrobe.

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The weather in the transitional period between winter and spring can often be hard to predict. It can go from sunny and mild to windy and cold in a few minutes so it is important to have a few items you can easily layer over any outfit for some extra warmth.

Tesco’s clothing brand F&F has just released the F&F Faux Leather Bubble Hem Zip Up Jacket in Brown that could make a great addition to your spring wardrobe. The leather jacket is “a bold layer” that will give your outwear a bit of refresh.

The jacket “offers a bold and modern silhouette” and comes with a “collared neckline and practical zip fastening”. The leather jacket has a “classic feel” and is currently be sold for £45.

The leather jacket was shared in a video on the Tesco F&F Instagram page. The post was captioned: “Some Spring newness on @devon_mummy.”

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Fans of the F&F clothing brand have already taken to social media to share their thoughts on some of the springtime clothing. One commenter said: “Love this,” and another said: “Absolutely adore an F&F haul!!”

If you fancy getting your hands on this jacket or any other coat from the brand for the spring, you can go to the Tesco website to browse all of its clothes. You can also go in person to a Tesco store with a clothing department.

Boden has a few different options for coats and jackets that you might prefer. There is this Lisburn Patch Pocket Jacket that reviews say is “beautifully made” or there is this Duffle Quilted Parka, which has been lined with soft borg to make it extra cosy.

You could also check out what New Look also has in stock for the new season. There is this Light Yellow Cotton Belted Mac Coat that could be a good choice if you need something waterproof or this Black Faux Leather Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket, which also comes in a dark brown colour.

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“Very worthwhile”: NIFRS recruiting for on call firefighters across NI

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Belfast Live

“I am there for my community when they need us most”

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service are recruiting for enthusiastic and committed On-Call Firefighters from local communities across the country.

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The ‘Your Town, Your Team, Your NIFRS’ campaign is aimed at those who live or work within 5 minutes of their local On-Call Fire Station, who want to make a real difference in their community.

As part of NIFRS’ commitment to recruiting the best possible candidates, information evenings are being held in every recruiting station throughout the duration of the campaign.

READ MORE: Aspiring NI pilots encouraged to apply for Jet2 fully-funded training programmeREAD MORE: NIFRS statement as 50 firefighters tasked tackle blaze in Co Armagh

NIFRS is recruiting On-Call Firefighters across 26 Fire Stations including:

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  • Ballycastle
  • Ballyclare
  • Glengormley
  • Portrush
  • Portstewart
  • Whitehead
  • Armagh
  • Ballynahinch
  • Crossmaglen
  • Holywood
  • Keady
  • Lurgan
  • Newcastle
  • Newtownhamilton
  • Portaferry
  • Warrenpoint
  • Comber
  • Belleek
  • Clogher
  • Dromore (Tyrone)
  • Irvinestown
  • Lisnaskea
  • Enniskillen
  • Newtownstewar
  • Pomeroy
  • Carryduff

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service Western Area Commander David Doherty said: “We are inviting new applicants to join our dedicated team of On-Call Firefighters who provide vital support in protecting local community.

“Our On-Call Firefighters respond to the same types of incidents that Wholetime Firefighters do, alongside balancing firefighting duties with other jobs, businesses and family responsibilities. On-Call Firefighters demonstrate incredible dedication to protecting their local community and I would encourage anyone who is interested in joining our team to apply.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage any local business owners in these areas who are willing to allow On-Call Firefighters to be released from their employment to attend emergency calls, to contact your local On-Call Fire Station for more information.”

Megan Walsh from Crossmaglen combines her role as an On-Call Firefighter alongside working in a children’s entertainment centre, volunteering in her local community and attends the gym regularly.

She said: “My primary employer, a children’s entertainment centre, is very supportive of my role as an On-Call Firefighter. They allow me to respond to fire calls with a minute’s notice.

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“Knowing that I am helping others and ensuring I am there for my community when they need us most, it’s very worthwhile.”

Oran Swift combines his role as an On-Call Firefighter alongside working as a bricklayer and looking after his young family.

He said: “Being an On-Call Firefighter has provided me with transferable skills that I can use every day. I work as a bricklayer and keep my pager on during the day and then clock off when I’m spending time with my family.

“Once you find the correct balance, the role is incredibly rewarding. I am helping others, gaining new skills and discovering leadership strengths I never knew I had.

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“It’s so important living in small rural villages that we all chip in together to keep people safe.”

The closing date for applications is Friday 13 March at 12noon anc candidates can apply online and download application packs from NIFRS’s website

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Harbour-dredged mud used for ‘remarkable’ restoration of protective saltmarsh

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Harbour-dredged mud used for ‘remarkable’ restoration of protective saltmarsh

“Saltmarsh won’t grow until the spring, we had to get through this winter and hope it’s still there at the right level, then if it makes it through to the spring we are fully expecting it to colonise and have some very good saltmarsh,” Mr Willegers said, adding that it was all still there so far.

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Police issue urgent appeal after young boy targeted at shopping centre

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Manchester Evening News

Officers chased two suspects who were later arrested

Police have issued an urgent appeal after a young boy was targeted in a suspected robbery at a shopping centre. Officers were called to the Salford precinct on Sunday afternoon (February 22).

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Two suspects were chased on foot through nearby Clarendon Park and arrested following the incident. It is believed a young boy was the victim of a robbery, close to Pendleton Gateway, off Broadwalk at around 4.20pm.

Greater Manchester Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward and are trying to trace the victim. They believe him to have been a young boy who was ‘distressed’.

Click here to prioritise Manchester news in Google from the MEN

An appeal shared by Greater Manchester Police read: “Can you help police identify a potential victim of a robbery on Broadwalk, Salford, today? This afternoon, NBO Central Team one arrested two males on suspicion of robbery after a foot chase through Clarendon Park. They remain in police custody awaiting interview.

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“We’re appealing to the public who may have been in Salford Precinct, by Pendleton Gateway, this afternoon (Sunday 22 February) around 4:20pm who may have witnessed this incident, to please come forward and speak to police. We believe our victim is a young boy, who looks distressed by this incident, if you’re a parent who has concerns your child was involved, please call us.

“If you have any information or mobile phone footage of the incident, please call 101 quoting log 2051-22/02/2026 or use our online LiveChat at gmp.police.uk. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

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BAFTAs 2026 best moments: From Kylie Jenner’s Jammie Dodger to Paddington’s biggest fan

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Daily Mirror

The 79th British Academy Film Awards took place on Sunday night and there were plenty of funny and memorable moments from the star-studded ceremony

The 79th EE BAFTA Film Awards got underway in London on Sunday night with huge stars in attendance including Emma Stone, Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Hudson joining the likes of Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley.

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Prince William and his wife, Princess Catherine, also made a joint appearance at the awards walking the red carpet together where they awkwardly dodged a question from a heckler. The royal couple’s outing comes just days after William’s uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested at his home on the Sandringham Estate, suspicion of misconduct in public office.

From Kylie Jenner being offered a Jammy Dodger, to K-pop star Rei Ami’s affection for Paddington, these were some of the funniest and most unforgettable moments from last night…

– Alan Cumming’s snack distribution.

Among the most entertaining – and peculiar – highlights of host Alan Cumming’s evening came when he wandered into the celebrity-packed audience armed with British treats.

“People were starting to get a bit peckish. I could tell their blood-sugar levels were crashing so I thought I’d come out and hand out some very British snacks,” he announced, clutching a basket.

After offering best actress contender Emma Stone a bag of Hula Hoops, which she called “divine”, he presented Stormzy with his “favourite” crisps – Skips. Approaching best actor hopeful Timothée Chalamet, who was seated next to Kylie Jenner, he enquired of the slightly bewildered pair: “Can I interest you in a packet of Scampi Fries?”.

“Kylie – have you ever had your gums around a giant Jammie Dodger?” Cumming continued before handing her one. He subsequently offered fellow best actor nominee Leonardo DiCaprio a treat.

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“Leo, here you are. I think – how do you like the idea of an Oatie Hobnob Flapjack? That sounds fantastic,” the Hollywood legend responded.

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– Dame Emma Thompson’s resemblance to a former British prime minister

During the evening’s proceedings, the prestigious 2026 Bafta Fellowship Award was bestowed upon Dame Donna Langley – the first British woman to helm a major Hollywood studio – in recognition of her outstanding contributions to film and television.

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A specially recorded message from Dame Emma Thompson was broadcast to attendees, with the camera tightly focused on her face.

Dame Emma quipped: “I haven’t got any makeup on. I look like Boris Johnson. Dame Langley, it’s me Dame Thompson in my kitchen.” She assured Dame Donna that “no one could deserve it more” when speaking about the accolade.

– Paddington’s biggest admirer.

The vocal talents behind the blockbuster KPop Demon Hunters performed at the event – marking their debut live appearance together beyond American shores.

Prior to the ceremony’s commencement, group members spoke with reporters on the red carpet and learned that Paddington had been seen amongst attendees.

Band member Rei Ami appeared shocked before excitedly declaring: “Can we meet Paddington? Where’s Paddington? I want to make a Tik Tok with Paddington.”

– Actress Mia McKenna-Bruce reveals unexpected Ronan Keating fandom.

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Persuasion star Mia McKenna-Bruce also spoke on the red carpet, where she was questioned about advice for nominees. McKenna-Bruce, who herself claimed the Bafta Rising Star Award in 2024, responded: “It’s a rollercoaster, so just try to ride it.”

When asked if she was referencing Ronan Keating, she confirmed: “There we go. I knew someone would get it.” When they remarked on his collection of “bangers,” she replied with evident excitement: “Yes. He really does.”

– Cumming’s Zoom call.

The evening kicked off with a pre-recorded sketch featuring Cumming alongside several celebrities including Warwick Davies and young Hamnet star Jacobi Jupe participating in a Zoom conversation. Cumming appealed for their assistance in broadening the Baftas ‘ viewing figures.

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Twelve year old Jupe then enquired “what’s BBC One?”, before continuing: “Oh, television – I think I watched that once. It’s like a big phone, right?”.

– Jessie Buckley’s emotional speech.

Jessie Buckley became visibly tearful as she accepted her best actress accolade for portraying William Shakespeare’s wife in Hamnet.

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Director Chloe Zhao, who helmed the film, appeared equally moved when cameras captured her reaction from the audience. “I love you,” she silently repeated to Buckley during her acceptance speech.

Zhao herself received a best director nomination for the production, though the honour ultimately went to Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another.

– Robert Aramayo’s two big wins.

Further emotional scenes unfolded when British performer Robert Aramayo secured the best actor trophy mere moments after claiming the EE Rising Star award.

Aramayo triumphed over Hollywood giants including Leonardo DiCaprio, Timothée Chalamet and Ethan Hawke for the best actor honour, having delivered a powerful performance in I Swear, depicting the true story of a man living with Tourette syndrome in 1980s Scotland.

The surprise etched on his face was evident and was equalled only by the joy displayed by his family as they embraced him in the audience before he made his way to the stage to deliver his second speech of the evening.

Follow our live blog for the latest BAFTA updates by clicking here.

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BAFTA shouter revealed as inspiration behind award winning film ‘I Swear’

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Daily Mirror

At the age of 25 John Davidson was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome – since then he’s campaigned tirelessly, and he’s helped many young people with Tourette’s

A number of people heard “shouting” throughout the BAFTAs tonight which sparked confusion in the ceremony and for those watching along at home – but host Alan Cummings explained an audience-member with Tourette Syndrome was experiencing tics during the ceremony.

Throughout the ceremony, “shut the f**k up,” could be heard during a speech by BAFTA chair Sara Putt, as well as “f**k you,” when the directors of Arco won the Best Children’s and Family film.

Later in the evening, host Alan told the audience: “You may have noticed some strong language in the background. This can be part of how Tourette’s syndrome shows up for some people as the film explores that experience. Thanks for your understanding and helping create a respectful space for everyone.”

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So who was behind the outbursts?

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Who is John Davidson?

John Davidson first started noticing symptoms aged 12. These include outbursts, tics and swearing. At 16 he starred in the 1989 documentary John’s Not Mad, as the cameras followed him around his home town of Galashiels in the Scottish Borders.

It wasn’t until almost ten years later that John was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 25. Now 54, John has chosen to keep the spotlight on himself to highlight the condition which – and his story is being told in a new film I Swear.

What is Tourette Syndrome?

According to the NHS Tourette syndrome is a condition that causes you to make sudden, repetitive sounds or movements (tics). There is no cure, but treatment can help manage the tics. The main symptom of Tourette syndrome is tics. Tics can involve repetitive sounds (vocal tics) or movements (motor tics) you do not choose to make and cannot control. Tics can be triggered by different things including stress, excitement or tiredness.

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The inspiration behind I Swear

John is the inspiration behind the BAFTA nominated movie, I Swear, released last year. The British biographical drama film follows the true story of John Davidson, a Scottish man who became a prominent campaigner for Tourette’s syndrome awareness.

Directed by Kirk Jones, the film features performances from the wider Tourette’s community, including Andrea Bisset, to authentically portray life with the condition. The film was released in the UK on October 10, 2025, following its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, and focuses on Davidson’s life after the 1989 documentary John’s Not Mad.

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he production involved the wider Tourette’s community, featuring performances from real people with the condition to ensure an accurate representation of the experience.

The film has been described as a “brilliantly eye-opening” and “feelgood” film, with praise for its honest portrayal of the condition. The film is noted for its ability to raise awareness while providing a moving account of living with Tourette’s.

Awards won at tonight’s BAFTAs

I Swear star Robert Aramayo won best actor at this year’s Bafta awards. The actor, who depicted the life of John Davidson, a campaigner for Tourette’s syndrome, was in tears as he collected his award, telling the crowd: “I honestly cannot believe this.”

Earlier in the evening, he also won the Bafta rising star award, given to up-and-coming actors. It marks the first time an actor or actress has won both categories in the same year.

I Swear won three awards tonight, with casting director Lauren Evans adding to its tally by winning best casting, describing the performance from Aramayo as “stellar.”

Follow our live blog for the latest BAFTA updates by clicking here.

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New law puts Kansas at the vanguard of denying trans identities on IDs

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New law puts Kansas at the vanguard of denying trans identities on IDs

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is set to invalidate about 1,700 driver’s licenses held by transgender residents and roughly as many birth certificates under a new law that goes beyond Republican-imposed restrictions in other states on listing gender identities in government documents.

The new law takes effect Thursday. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed the measure but the Legislature’s GOP supermajorities overrode it last week as Republican state lawmakers across the U.S. have pursued another round of measures to roll back transgender rights.

The bill prohibits documents from listing any sex other than the one assigned birth and invalidates any that reflect a conflicting gender identity. Florida, Tennessee and Texas also don’t allow driver’s licenses to reflect a trans person’s gender identity, and at least eight states besides Kansas have policies that bar trans residents from changing their birth certificates.

But only Kansas’ law requires reversing changes previously made for trans residents. Kansas officials expect to cancel about 1,700 driver’s licenses and issue new birth certificates for up to 1,800 people.

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“It tells me that Kansas Republicans are interested in being on the vanguard of the culture war and in a race to the bottom,” said Democratic state Rep. Abi Boatman, a transgender Air Force veteran appointed in January to fill a vacant Wichita seat.

Kansas’ new law enjoyed nearly unanimous GOP support. It is the latest success in what has become an annual effort to further roll back transgender rights by Republicans in statehouses across the U.S., bolstered by policies and rhetoric from President Donald Trump’s administration.

Trump and other Republicans attack research-backed conclusions that gender can change or be fluid as radical “gender ideology.” GOP lawmakers in Kansas regularly describe transgender girls and women as male and as they say they’re protecting women.

Like fellow Republicans, Kansas Senate Majority Leader Chase Blaisi said Trump’s reelection and other GOP victories in 2024 show that voters want “to return to common sense” on gender.

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“When I go home, people believe there are just two sexes, male and female,” Blasi said. “It’s basic biology I learned in high school.”

Kelly supports transgender rights, but GOP lawmakers have overridden her vetoes three of the past four years. Kansas bans gender-affirming care for minors and bars transgender women and girls from female sports teams, kindergarten through college.

Transgender people can’t use public restrooms, locker rooms or other single-sex facilities associated with their gender identities, though there was no enforcement mechanism until this year’s law added tough new provisions.

Transgender people have said carrying IDs that misgender them opens them to intrusive questions, harassment and even violence when they show it to police, merchants, and others.

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In 2023, Republicans halted changes in Kansas birth certificates and driver’s licenses by enacting a measure ending the state’s legal recognition of trans residents’ gender identities. Though the law didn’t mention either document, it legally defined male and female by a person’s “biological reproductive system” at birth.

However, a lawsuit led to state court decisions that last year permitted driver’s license changes to resume.

Legislators in at least seven other states are considering bills to prevent transgender people from changing one or both documents, according to a search using the bill-tracking software Plural.

But none would reverse past changes.

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The extra step by Kansas legislators reinforces a message “that trans people aren’t welcome,” said Anthony Alvarez, a transgender University of Kansas student who works for a pro-LGBTQ rights group.

Kansas is likely to notify transgender residents by mail that their driver’s licenses are no longer valid and they need to go to a local licensing office to get a new one, said Zachary Denney, spokesperson for the agency that issues them.

The Legislature hasn’t earmarked funds to cover the cost, so each person will pay it — $26 for a standard license.

Alvarez already has had four IDs in four years as he’s changed his name, changed his gender marker and turned 21.

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He’s always planned to stay in his native Kansas after getting his history degree this spring.

But, he said, “They’re just making it harder and harder for me to live in the state that I love.”

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EU demands clarity from US after court strikes down Trump tariffs

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EU demands clarity from US after court strikes down Trump tariffs

BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union’s executive arm requested “full clarity” from the United States and asked its trade partner to fulfill its commitments after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down some of President Donald Trump’s most sweeping tariffs.

Trump has lashed out at the court decision and said Saturday that he wants a global tariff of 15%, up from the 10% he announced a day earlier.

The European Commission said the current situation is not conducive to delivering “fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial” trans-Atlantic trade and investment, as agreed to by both sides and spelled out in the EU-U.S. Joint Statement of August 2025.

American and EU officials sealed a trade deal last year that imposes a 15% import tax on 70% of European goods exported to the United States. The European Commission handles trade for the 27 EU member countries.

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A top EU lawmaker said on Sunday he will propose to the European Parliament negotiating team to put the ratifying process of the deal on pause.

“Pure tariff chaos on the part of the U.S. administration,” Bernd Lange, the chair of Parliament’s international trade committee, wrote on social media. “No one can make sense of it anymore — only open questions and growing uncertainty for the EU and other U.S. trading partners.”

The value of EU-U.S. trade in goods and services amounted to 1.7 trillion euros ($2 trillion) in 2024, or an average of 4.6 billion euros a day, according to EU statistics agency Eurostat.

“A deal is a deal,” the European Commission said. “As the United States’ largest trading partner, the EU expects the U.S. to honor its commitments set out in the Joint Statement — just as the EU stands by its commitments. EU products must continue to benefit from the most competitive treatment, with no increases in tariffs beyond the clear and all-inclusive ceiling previously agreed.”

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Jamieson Greer, Trump’s top trade negotiator, said in a CBS News interview Sunday morning that the U.S. plans to stand by its trade deals and expects its partners to do the same.

He said he talked to his European counterpart this weekend and hasn’t heard anyone tell him the deal is off.

“The deals were not premised on whether or not the emergency tariff litigation would rise or fall,” Greer said. “I haven’t heard anyone yet come to me and say the deal’s off. They want to see how this plays out.”

Europe’s biggest exports to the U.S. are pharmaceuticals, cars, aircraft, chemicals, medical instruments, and wine and spirits. Among the biggest U.S. exports to the bloc are professional and scientific services like payment systems and cloud infrastructure, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, aerospace products and cars.

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“When applied unpredictably, tariffs are inherently disruptive, undermining confidence and stability across global markets and creating further uncertainty across international supply chains,” the commission added.

As primarily a trading bloc, the EU has a powerful tool at its disposal to retaliate — the bloc’s Anti-Coercion Instrument. It includes a raft of measures for blocking or restricting trade and investment from countries found to be putting undue pressure on EU member nations or corporations.

The measures could include curtailing the export and import of goods and services, barring countries or companies from EU public tenders, or limiting foreign direct investment. In its most severe form, it would essentially close off access to the EU’s 450-million customer market and inflict billions of dollars of losses on U.S. companies and the American economy.

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