The village has stunning views of the coastline and valleys, with an abandoned 19th century hamlet. One traveller recently visited and said it’s “well worth checking out”

If you’re in the mood for adventure, you’re in luck with this stunning location. You might spend your weekends visiting villages deemed the “most beautiful in Northern Ireland” or keep it lowkey with some friends at the pub.

But if you like a mixture of both, one traveller is raving on about this destination which is utterly perfect. The hidden village has sweeping views of the coastline and valleys, as well as an abandoned 19th century hamlet. It’s certainly worth checking out – and the best bit is the village is just 40 miles away from Belfast, taking around 1 hour in the car.

We’re talking about the hidden village of Galboly, which is nestled away in the stunning Glens of Antrim. A clip shared by a woman who does road trips around Northern Ireland and Ireland recently visited the village.

The video shows the gorgeous view of the coast, mountains and a path which you can hike to take in the scenery. There’s also an abandoned 19th-century hamlet which offers an eerie look into the past.

In the caption, TikTok user @Road Trip Adventures NI said: “Another visit to this amazing place today.

“The hidden village of Galboly – nestled away in the stunning Glens of Antrim – with its sweeping views of the coastline and valleys and abandoned 19th century hamlet. This is well worth checking out.”

Top things to do in Galboly:

Visiting the abandoned village offers a mix of dramatic coastal views and history. You can walk the half-mile track up to the stone-walled buildings and old thatched cottages. The village was inhabited up to the 1950s and offers a fascinating look at rural, pre-modern life.

You can hike ‘The Pinnacles’ for a more adventurous trek where you can enjoy stunning views of Garron Plateau, Garron Point, and the Irish Sea.

Meanwhile, Game of Thrones fans can check out the sites where the series was filmed and walk the same paths as their favourite characters.

There’s an honesty box where people can donate a few coins to thank the local farmer for access.

And finally, after your hike, take a short drive to see nearby scenic attractions like the picturesque Cranny Falls trail, Glenariff Forest Park, or the historic town of Carnlough Harbour.

Reaching the hidden village can take up to an hour by car from Belfast, alternatively the train is about 35 minutes long.

The school was praised for its ‘broad and ambitious curriculum’

A secondary school has been rated ‘strong standard’ in all areas assessed by Ofsted. Hinchingbrooke School in Hinchingbrooke has been praised by inspectors for its “broad and ambitious” curriculum which means “pupils’ attainment is above national averages”.

The school, on Brampton Road, underwent an Ofsted inspection in May and has been rated as at a ‘strong standard’ across seven areas. These areas are: achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, leadership and governance, personal development and wellbeing and post-16 provision.

Hinchingbrooke School, part of The Cam Academy Trust, was rated an overall ‘good’ in its previous inspection. Inspectors praised the secondary school for its “consistently high expectations” which are “clearly understood by pupils, who impressively rise to the challenge”.

The report, published on July 3, emphasises that pupils enjoy coming to school because “they feel part of a community” and that they enjoy “positive relationships with staff that are built on respect”.

The report states: “Pupils know that staff want them to achieve well. These high expectations are balanced with effective support for pupils’ wellbeing. Pupils have positive attitudes to their learning. They are keen to be in school each day. They feel known and supported as individuals.”

According to the school, the outcome places it among the strongest performers nationally, with inspectors recognising both the quality of education and the culture of the school community.

Inspectors praised leaders for having a “carefully designed” curriculum to prepare pupils for life beyond school. According to the report by the education watchdog, pupils in key stages four and five benefit from a range of options taught by subject specialists.

The report adds: “Pupils are confident, independent learners who are well prepared for their next steps, including in advanced study, training or work. They move on to a range of destinations that suit their aspirations and interests.”

Andy Hunter, Principal of Hinchingbrooke School, said: “We are incredibly proud of this outcome, which is the best the school has ever achieved. It reflects the dedication and commitment of our staff and the fantastic young people in our school.

“This report captures what we value most – a school that is ambitious, inclusive, and where every student feels they belong. Although we are pleased, there is a still a lot to do. We are excited to continue our journey towards being the very best school we can be.”

In its next steps, leaders were asked to ensure “continued improvement to curriculum implementation to achieve exceptional standards of teaching that have a transformational impact on the achievement of all pupils”, the report states.

Claire Heald, CEO of The Cam Academy Trust, added: “This is an excellent achievement and a testament to the strength of the whole school community. What stands out in this report is not just the outcome, but the culture it describes – a school where pupils feel safe, included, and part of something.

“The report also recognises the school’s focus on strong relationships, high expectations and a sense of belonging for all pupils.”

There are only around 55 breeding pairs of black-necked grebes in the country, according to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), making this duo an uncommon sight.

(Image: Carl Abbott)

Local photographer Carl Abbott managed to capture some shots of them in Moses Gate Park, acting on a tip-off from the RSPB online forums.

Terry Delaney, from the RSPB Bolton branch, said: “While these birds are not common, they breed in a number of places within the UK. 

There are quite a few about at the moment as they will have just bred. 

“One of the places they breed is Woolston Eyes in Warrington.  Some of them can be seen at Pennington and Elton reservoir during the spring and summer.

Black-necked grebes are diving birds about the size of a moorhen, which ‘breeds in just a handful of places around the country’, according to the Wildlife Trust.

(Image: Carl Abbott)

They can be distinguished by their striking red eyes, the golden tufts near their ears, and by their deep black necks.

The animals tend to be found nesting near the water’s edge due to the fact that they are not very good at walking.

(Image: Carl Abbott)

Their breeding dance is famous – the male and female birds swim round one another, mirroring each other’s movements.

They then rise up out of the water together, breast-to-breast, waving their heads in what the RSPB calls their ‘penguin dance.’

The birds are known to be secretive during their breeding seasons, preferring quiet, out-of-the-way locations and spurning human and animal contact.

(Image: Carl Abbott)

For this reason, their nests tend to be well hidden by the waterside, usually amongst thick reeds or sedges.

Black-necked grebes were first recorded in the UK in 1904, with the population fluctuating year on year – though their numbers have generally been on the increase since the 1980s.

PARIS (AP) — Paris’ appeals court is set to rule Tuesday in Marine Le Pen’s embezzlement case, a decision that could determine whether one of France’s leading presidential contenders can run in next year’s election.

Le Pen, 57, is appealing a March 2025 conviction that found her and other members of her National Rally party guilty of misusing European Parliament funds by paying party staff with money intended for EU parliamentary assistants between 2004 and 2016.

The lower court sentenced her to prison time, suspended pending appeal, and imposed a five-year ban on holding elected office. Le Pen has denied any wrongdoing and still hopes to mount a fourth bid for the presidency.

If she is barred from running, her longtime protégé Jordan Bardella, 30, could instead become the party’s presidential candidate, reshaping the race to succeed President Emmanuel Macron.

Here’s a look at the possible outcomes and what they could mean for France’s 2027 presidential election.

Le Pen is looking for an acquittal

In what would be the best-case scenario for Le Pen, the appeals court could clear her of all charges.

During the five-week appeal trial earlier this year, Le Pen acknowledged “a mistake.” She told the court some employees paid as EU parliamentary aides performed work for her party, then known as the National Front, but insisted that she believed such work was allowed and never attempted to hide it.

She also reproached European Parliament officials for not warning her party, at the time, that the way it was hiring people was potentially against any rules.

Le Pen’s lawyer, Rodolphe Bosselut, told the three-judge panel his client “is entrusting you with the work of her life, and the question is thus whether it will end here or whether it can be rebuilt.”

Prosecutors could still appeal to the Court of Cassation, France’s highest court, to challenge an acquittal decision.

If she gets a two-year ban — or less — on holding elected office

The appeals court could find Le Pen guilty but reduce the ban on holding elected office to two years or less — or impose no ban at all.

Because the lower court ordered the ban to take immediate effect, Le Pen has been serving that portion of the sentence since March 31 last year. A ban of two years or less would expire before the first round of the French presidential election, scheduled in April 2027.

But that does not automatically mean Le Pen would run: Any prison sentence, electronic monitoring or other judicial restrictions could severely hamper a nationwide campaign.

Le Pen has suggested she would not launch a presidential bid in such case.

Prosecutors requested the appeals court to sentence Le Pen to four years in prison, including three suspended, in addition to a ban on holding elected office for five years. They accused Le Pen of being at the head of a “system” meant to “siphon off” EU public funds to the benefit of her party.

Although prosecutors did not ask for it, the appeals court is free to order the ban on holding elected office to take immediate effect, like the lower court did.

Le Pen could still appeal to the Court of Cassation, but it’s unclear whether it would suspend the sentence pending a final ruling.

The Court of Cassation has previously said that, if asked to review the case, it would seek to issue a ruling before the 2027 presidential election.

Le Pen says she won’t wait to make her decision

“You can’t launch a presidential campaign at the last minute,” Le Pen said on the sidelines of the appeal trial.

She has argued that prolonged uncertainty — including a possible appeal to the Court of Cassation — would effectively prevent her from running because she would not want to jeopardize her party’s chances.

France’s presidential race is expected to begin taking shape in September before accelerating early next year. Candidates also must secure the endorsements of 500 elected officials to qualify for the ballot, making it difficult to replace a presidential nominee late in the campaign.

“If I’m prevented from running but the Court of Cassation rules in my favor three or four months later, it will be too late to conduct a proper presidential campaign,” Le Pen told RTL radio last year.

The match kicks off at 1am on Monday.

A Bolton Council spokesperson said: “Pubs and bars across England and Wales will be able to stay open until 5am on Monday morning (6 July 2026) so fans can come together to watch the World Cup last-16 match against Mexico

“In a boost for pubs, bars and football fans across the country, alcohol licensing hours will be extended for Monday morning’s match which kicks off at 1am. 

“This change removes the need for individual premises in Bolton to apply for extended hours, delivering a welcome boost to the hospitality sector.”

A number of pubs in Bolton have already said they will be staying open with many urging people to book before hand.

Lisette Auton of Darlington and Vici Wreford-Sinnott of Saltburn are supporting Cripping Culture: A Journey into Disability Arts Heritage, a major new heritage project.

Led by Disability Arts Online (DAO) and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project aims to preserve and showcase the stories and impact of the Disability Arts movement through a digital archive, timeline, and podcast series.

Ms Auton, an award-winning author, spoken word artist, and playwright, said: “Sharing memories of disability arts history with Cripping Culture is vital.

Vici Wreford-Sinnott of Saltburn (Image: Supplied)

“There needs to be a permanent record to show the importance of this work in the disability arts movement and in mainstream culture.

“It legitimizes the importance of this work and the people who made it.

“Young people, and those who are older like I was, need easier and bolder ways to access sense-making history to feel empowered to become history makers.

“These stories are valid, vital, important, and urgently need to be collected.”

Contributions are welcome from anyone with a connection to disability arts, including audience members, artists, writers, curators, musicians, activists, and more.

The stories could relate to events, performances, exhibitions, artists, organisations, or any experience connected to the movement.

Ms Auton described her own introduction to Disability Arts as a turning point.

She said: “I became involved in disability arts about a decade ago, having felt increasingly isolated and also at the same time finally claiming my disabled and neurodivergent identity, rather than trying to hide or being shamed by it.

“I found a way in first of all by meeting Vici, a powerhouse of a disability artist and advocate, and then in discovering Disability Arts Online.

“Being a part of disability culture and understanding the history that came before is vitally important to me now and to those who will come along who also need to find their place.”

Ms Wreford-Sinnott, a who has campaigned for cultural equity for more than 30 years, is also championing the project.

She said: “Cripping Culture is an essential, collaborative acknowledgement of the vital, dynamic cultural histories of disabled people, shared through a disabled-led lens.

“It raises the status of groundbreaking, unapologetic, and radical contributions to culture by disabled practitioners from decades in the footnotes, whilst raising the stakes for contemporary disabled artists still campaigning for cultural equity in the arts venues, galleries, and institutions of today.

“The excellence of this work will be visible and the cultural sector will see what it is missing and will want to engage with cripped culture.”

The call for contributions is especially focused on capturing stories from underrepresented regions and perspectives, including those from the global majority and with intersectional experiences of disability.

DAO aims to uncover previously untold stories from across the North East to enrich the national record of disability arts history.

Stories can be submitted in text, video, audio, or photographic format, and access support is available for those who need it.

DAO encourages contributions in both English and British Sign Language.

Colin Hambrook, heritage project director at DAO, said: “It doesn’t matter who you are, if you have a story to tell that involves disability arts in the UK, then we want to hear from you.

“Everyone who shares a memory will play an important part in the Cripping Culture project, saving our heritage for future generations.

“It is important for the legacy of the Disability Arts movement that we capture stories of events from the North East that may have not been previously recorded.

“We want to celebrate the vast breadth of disability arts activity that has occurred across time.

“We are grateful to Lisette and Vici for helping us share this call out far and wide and would love other people to get involved too.”

Cripping Culture: A Journey into Disability Arts Heritage is a three year project and has received almost £250,000 in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The call for contributions remains open until August 14.

To share a story, visit disabilityarts.online/cripping-culture and complete the online form.

Michael Poxton left the officers feeling deeply uncomfortable with his sexually suggestive remarks and advances, a misconduct hearing concluded.

The former Northumbria Police officer resigned before the hearing took place, but it ruled he committed gross misconduct and would have been sacked.

The panel concluded that between April 2022 and August 2023 he repeatedly made sexualised comments to female colleagues, commented on their appearance and bodies, and deliberately touched two women on the thigh while driving police vehicles.

Poxton denied the allegations and did not show for the hearing.

In relation to Officer A, the panel found Poxton repeatedly made unwanted sexualised comments despite her making clear she was not interested in a relationship.

According to the panel, he told her when she wore her hair in a ponytail that it would allow him to “wrap his hand around it and pull it”, regularly looked her up and down saying “Ooh, I would”, suggested she should have sex with him as a birthday present, and repeatedly told her: “If I painted myself black, I’d be your type then.”

The panel found Officer A’s evidence credible and supported by another police witness.

Its decision said: “The comments were plainly sexual in nature, including suggestions of sexual activity, comments about her physical appearance, and references about Officer A’s type and dating outside of her race.”

The panel added: “The comments were unwanted by Officer A and that should have been obvious to former PC Poxton.”

Officer B told the hearing Poxton discussed his “type” in women before deliberately moving his hand down her thigh while they were travelling in Gateshead in November 2022.

She later alleged that during a shift in Newcastle city centre he told her: “Well, I love that sassy attitude you have in SIU, so seeing that out on the streets is just so attractive.”

The panel rejected Poxton’s explanation that the touching was accidental.

Its decision stated: “The Panel does not accept the former officer’s explanation that the contact amounted to a brief accidental ‘nick’ caused by unfamiliarity with the Vauxhall Corsa’s gear mechanism.”

The panel found the touching, together with his comments, amounted to sexual harassment.

Officer C described how Poxton commented on her work clothes in August 2023, telling her a pair of trousers looked “as though they had been painted on” and saying he scored her outfits out of 10.

She also alleged he deliberately placed his hand on her upper thigh for several seconds while driving.

The panel accepted her evidence.

It found Poxton had “Commented upon Officer C’s clothing, including making remarks about her bottom being prominent in a pair of trousers and describing the trousers as appearing to have been painted on; Told Officer C that he scored her outfits out of ten and discussed particular outfits she wore to work; and Deliberately placed his hand on her upper thigh during the return journey.”

Officer D told the hearing Poxton repeatedly called her “beautiful” and “stunning” after she had her hair done, commented that she had a “nice arse” and said it was “okay to look but not touch”.

She also alleged he suggested she was only with her boyfriend for his money and was performing sexual acts on him for money.

The panel found her account more persuasive than Poxton’s denials.

It said the comments “were sexualised and objectifying in nature” and concluded they amounted to harassment and sexual harassment.

The panel concluded the incidents formed “a repeated pattern of behaviour directed towards multiple female colleagues over a period of approximately sixteen months.”

The decision said: “Female officers are entitled to attend work without being subjected to sexual comments and without fear of unwanted physical contact.”

The panel found Poxton’s behaviour was deliberate and that he should reasonably have foreseen the harm caused.

It also concluded his conduct had the potential to seriously undermine public confidence in policing.

Because Poxton had already resigned, the panel could not dismiss him. Instead, it found he would have been dismissed without notice had he still been serving.

The outcome means Poxton will be placed on the College of Policing Barred List.

From crisp whites and refreshing rosés to elegant sparkling wines and lightly chilled reds

Long, sun-soaked afternoons, leisurely barbecues, picnics in the park and al fresco dinners all have one thing in common – they’re even better with the right wine in hand. Summer is the perfect time to move away from heavier reds and embrace lighter, brighter styles that complement the season’s fresh flavours and relaxed pace.

From crisp whites and refreshing rosés to elegant sparkling wines and lightly chilled reds, there’s something for every occasion and every palate. Whether you’re hosting friends in the garden, heading to the beach, or simply unwinding after a warm day, the right bottle can elevate the moment.

We’ve rounded up some of the best wines to enjoy this summer, showcasing everything from crowd-pleasing classics to exciting new discoveries. So grab a glass, find a sunny spot, and discover your next favourite summer sip…

Faustino V Rioja Reserva, £12.50

This smooth Rioja Reserva is the ultimate BBQ companion. Rich enough to stand up to smoky grilled meats but smooth enough for a sunny afternoon in the garden, the Faustino V Rioja Reserva landed the #6 spot on Wine Enthusiast’s ‘Top 100 Best Buys’.

Viña Bujanda Promesa Viura 2024, £11.90

Bright and clear with a pale lemon hue and green highlights. Fresh aromas of green apple, pineapple and white blossom lead into a smooth, rounded palate, lifted by crisp freshness and finishing clean with soft orchard fruit and delicate floral notes. Pair with grilled white fish, shellfish or soft cheeses

Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut NV, £22.95

This Crémant de Loire produces a lively, full mousse with tangy citrus, slatey minerals and racy acidity. Pairs well with rich or fatty foods, as well as oysters or olives.

11 Minutes Rose by Pasqua, £17.50

A pale, elegant rosé that combines freshness and drinkability with a subtle layer of texture and spice. Made from a blend of Corvina, Trebbiano, Syrah and Carmenère grown near Lake Garda, the wine offers delicate floral aromas alongside crisp red berry fruit, gentle spice and refreshing acidity.

La Rioja Alta Viña Alberdi 2020, £20

Intensely aromatic of raspberries, blueberries, red plums and redcurrants that give way to balsamic notes of vanilla, nutmeg, caramel and hazelnut. There is balance, freshness, and a lovely, smooth, rounded finish. Perfect companion to barbecues, rice dishes, stews and grilled fish

Faustino I Gran Reserva. £18.50

This Gran Reserva is best enjoyed over a beautifully decorated cheeseboard. This bottle is a polished, elegant Rioja that feels special from the very first pour. It’s an ideal gift when you want to impress, and unsurprisingly, it’s also the world’s best-selling Gran Reserva Rioja.

Domaine Breton Vouvray Brut NV, £28

Produced in the Vouvray region, renowned for its high-quality Chenin Blanc grapes, this wine is made in the Méthode Champenoise, resulting in fine bubbles and an exquisite bouquet. The aroma is fruity and floral with notes of citrus, green apple and honey. On the palate, the wine is crisp and well-balanced with a lively acidity and a creamy mouthfeel.

Faustino V Tempranillo Rioja, £9.75

Fresh and easy drinking, this bright rosé is made for slow afternoons in the garden or casual picnics in the park. Crisp and versatile, it’s a relaxed summer wine that works just as well on its own as it does alongside light seasonal dishes. And, to be honest, you can never go wrong with a Tempranillo.

Bodegas Baigorri Blanco Fermentado en. £17.89

On the nose, it exhibits expressive aromas of ripe white fruit, enhanced with balsamic and slightly spicy notes resulting from its oak ageing. On the palate, working with the lees confers creaminess and complexity. Elegant and balanced right from first contact to its long, lasting finish. Pair with cured meats, cheeses and summer sharing platters.

Bodegas Zinio Rioja Street Art Tempranillo Blanco, £25.50

Golden yellow, clean and bright. Aromas typical of its ageing in barrique. White flowers, citrus fruits, aromatic notes of mixed fruit salad and fine toasted notes of French oak and acacia wood appear. Aromas of orange blossom, white pears, golden apples and freshly baked brioche. Pairs beautifully with fresh prawns, oysters and light seafood plates.

Palmer & Co Rose Solera, £49

Palmer & Co Rosé Solera is an elegant and expressive rosé Champagne that combines freshness and precision with layers of ripe red berry fruit and delicate spice. Blending Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier, the wine is enriched with a perpetual reserve of red wine – a signature element of the House style that adds depth, consistency and complexity.

Donald Trump celebrated Independence Day with World War II veterans, Gold Star families and the largest firework display in US history, delivering a patriotic speech just hours after thousands were evacuated and told to seek shelter.

Trump also displayed one of the oldest American flags in existence during the celebration, as he noted the delays to the much awaited event.

‘I said it doesn’t work next week, this is the big day,’ Trump said. ‘We want July 4th, we’re not looking for July something else.’

‘If you think that was easy, it wasn’t,’ the President added.

During his speech, Trump brought Pearl Harbor survivor Captain Ken Schubring, 104, on stage as the crowd roared and he stood in front of a flag flown during World War II.

Trump also used the the Spanish–American War of 1898 to take a jab at Iran, remarking that the US sank ‘the entire Iranian Navy, 159 ships, to the bottom of the sea, all done in just a moment’s time.’

The President repeatedly blasted communism during his address, saying that ‘communists haven’t got a chance’ and ‘we don’t want communists in our country.’

‘The stars and stripes cast the hammer and sickle into oblivion before and we will do it again if necessary,’ Trump said.

Trump, with First Lady Melania Trump, on stage at the Independence Day celebration on the National Mall

The President showed off some of the earliest American flags as part of his remarks

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Trump brought the Artemis II crew on stage during his patriotic Fourth of July speech, which lasted under 40 minutes

The 250th anniversary celebration wrapped up with a huge fireworks display over the National Mall

The President called communism a ‘loser’ and ‘the opposite of the American system.’

‘It’s like a cancer, you got to cut it out,’ Trump added.

At a separate point, Trump brought out the Artemis II flight crew, as he lauded the US’ space capacities. 

The President touted the SAVE America Act during his remarks, which would require people to provide documentary proof of American citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.

‘And there will be no mail-in ballots except for illness, disability, military deployment or travel,’ he added. 

Trump also said the US stock market was the strongest it has ever been, as he said that ‘there is nothing that Americans can’t do and we are proving that right now.’ 

In total, Trump’s speech commemorating America’s 250th anniversary lasted just under 40 minutes. 

The commemoration started with a performance from American tenor Christopher Macchio, who sang Ave Maria and God Bless America.

Lee Greenwood followed Macchio, performing God Bless the USA and subsequently introducing the President.

The massive celebration was capped off by a huge fireworks show, with 850,000 fireworks launched. That marked the largest in US history, according to Reuters.

Trump commented on the display about half an hour past midnight on Truth Social, writing, ‘Best fireworks show, EVER!’

While the event was postponed, Trump posted shortly after 9pm: ‘Storms bring luck to whatever the occasion. They also make events a little bit more exciting! We will wait it out, I don’t care if it’s 2:00 O’Clock in the morning, or in one hour from now. 

‘It’s Saturday night, LETS HAVE SOME FUN, even if we are out late tonight. They say 11:00 O’Clock for the speech. Who cares???’ he added. 

After arriving, photos captured Trump in a temporary building as he waited to deliver remarks. The President was seen speaking with First Lady Melania Trump and appeared to be watching himself on television.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and House Speaker Mike Johnson were among those who joined Trump.

Capt. Ken Schubring, 104, was brought on stage in front of a flag that was flown at Pearl Harbor during World War II 

Before the adverse weather conditions, organizers of the 250th anniversary event had advertised Saturday’s fireworks show as the largest in the world

The full spectacle included 850,000 fireworks, making it the largest ever in US history

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The President appeared to be watching himself on screen before his remarks at the America 250 celebration

Trump announced his arrival on Truth Social, writing ‘I’M HERE!!!’ at 10.16pm ET

In a phone interview with Fox News‘ Bret Baier, the President said that if the veterans could storm the beaches of Normandy on D–Day, he could give his Independence Day address in bad weather. 

Trump was originally scheduled to speak at 9.45pm ET ahead of what is being billed as the world’s largest fireworks display to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.

Thousands of Independence Day guests were forced to evacuate the National Mall as thunderstorms approached the capital. 

The Daily Mail was on the scene at the Mall when the evacuation orders were issued. Attendees were initially encouraged to head to the white tents that had been constructed for the Salute to America event, but a second announcement instructed them to head to three nearby federal buildings and take shelter.

At that point, revelers started booing the announcements. 

At another, someone onstage doing a mic check prompted a portion of the crowd to run back toward the stage, only to be pushed out again by Secret Service and other law enforcement. 

Flyovers continued after the crowd was asked to leave, doubling down on attendees’ resistance to exit. 

Amid the chaos, actor Dennis Quaid was spotted being shuttled through the crowd in a golf cart. 

Other MAGA names were part of the crowd, including Glenn Beck and his family, who were wearing matching T–shirts, and conservative activist Scott Presler.

Not everyone responded to the evacuations with anger, however. 

Clusters of attendees broke into song while slowly making their way toward the exits, belting out the national anthem as dark clouds formed above. 

Several USA chants were shouted as Maryland state troopers, Secret Service officers and US Park Police asked people to move.

Members of the US Secret Service direct attendees of the Salute to America on the National Mall to leave the area after a weather evacuation was announced. Many attendees dragged their feet, hoping the order would be reversed 

On Saturday evening, thousands were ordered to evacuate from the National Mall because of incoming thunderstorms

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On Wednesday, the President had promised to deliver a ‘really long speech’ despite the triple–digit heat, which already temporarily closed Friday’s Great American State Fair for several hours. 

‘Just to show that I can do anything,’ Trump said on Wednesday. ‘It’s gonna be 107.’

DC is under an extreme warning through 9pm tonight, while a severe thunderstorm warning is also in effect until 10pm. 

As of Saturday, the nation’s capital had a real feel temperature of 107, according to AccuWeather.

After the temporary shutdown, the organizers of the Salute to America event, Freedom 250, later said on X that Trump would give remarks at 11pm.

The Secret Service added that everyone who evacuated the site would need to be screened again upon reentry. 

Organizers urged guests to evacuate event grounds and seek temporary shelter in a nearby building. 

The Department of Education, Internal Revenue Service, VOA Building, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, and the Ronald Reagan Building were among those listed as shelters.

As of shortly before 8.30pm local time, the IRS building was at full capacity, the organizers said on X.

A deadly heat wave impacted America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, with scorching temperatures blasting Washington DC on Saturday

The Freedom 250–backed Great American State Fair, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the US, opened at noon Saturday because of the extreme heat

America 250 revelers booed the announcement when the evacuation orders rang out due to the severe weather

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National Guard members were seen passing out water bottles to guests in order to guard against the dangerous heat dome

As some guests sheltered inside the Department of Agriculture building, they broke out into a rendition of the ‘The Star–Spangled Banner.’

Brooke Rollins, the Secretary of Agriculture, shared video on her X account while lauding the ‘incredible patriots.’ 

To battle the heat, cooling stations and tents, as well as water distribution points, had been set up for guests, who have come to DC from all over the nation.

Trump addressed the scorching weather again shortly before 3pm today on Truth Social.

‘Despite the heat, which isn’t as bad as predicted, the crowds in D.C. are INCREDIBLE!’ Trump wrote.

A temperature reading taken from the thousands of chairs came out at roughly 160 degrees on Saturday afternoon, NBC News reported.

The President also noted that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool at the National Mall ‘looks great, despite all it went through with the Vandal Thugs.’

‘Will quickly drain and fix the damage done right after this big weekend,’ Trump added.

The opening of the Great American State Fair was pushed back from 10am to noon today due to the heat, according to NBC Washington. People had braved the blazing heat and waited in lines for hours to get in.

The severe weather also caused evacuations in Boston, where thousands of revelers were evacuated the city’s esplanade due to the storms, MassLive reported.

A severe thunderstorm warning was in effect until 10pm Saturday in Washington DC. Freedom 250 asked guests to take shelter

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Visitors who evacuated the National Mall were told they would have to be screened again in order to reenter

Temperatures were expected to cool in DC and across the east coast into Sunday because of thunderstorms

Washington DC had a real feel temperature of 107 on Saturday

People from all over the US braved the blazing heat to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the National Mall

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The DC Fire and EMS Department treated 51 people for heat-related ailments on Saturday, according to CNN. 12 of those people were taken to the hospital. 

On Friday, 44 people were treated for heat–related illnesses at the National Mall event, which at one point was temporarily closed due to the weather.

From that group, 11 people were taken to the hospital, with seven in more serious condition, according to the outlet.

Other events have also been disrupted because of the brutal temperatures. That included the National Independence Day Parade in DC, which was suddenly canceled on Friday night.

The heat dome has engulfed the eastern part of the US and even turned deadly. As of Saturday night, more than 20 weather–related deaths had been reported.

At least 19 people in New Jersey have died from suspected heat–related causes, state authorities said Saturday, NJ.com reported.

Most of the deaths involved people in homes without air conditioning, according to New Jersey Health Commissioner Raynard E. Washington.

Some were found outside of their homes on the street or in parked cars, Washington added.

He stressed that some of the people who died were ‘younger adults.’

‘It’s important to note that the age ranges for these individuals were not just the elderly,’ Washington said, per the outlet.

Washington noted that this was ‘not a typical summer heat wave,’ as it could ‘become life–threatening really quickly.’

Trump was originally scheduled to speak at the Salute to America event at the National Mall at 9.45pm, followed by a massive firework display

Washington DC was under an extreme heat warning until 9pm Saturday, which was about 45 minutes before the originally scheduled beginning of Trump’s Independence Day speech

The heat caused the opening of the Great American State Fair to be delayed from 10am to noon on Saturday

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51 people were treated for heat–related illnesses at the Great American State Fair on Saturday, with 12 taken to the hospital

The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that numerous temperature records were expected on Independence Day.

Philadelphia hit its third straight day of 101 degrees on Saturday, which marked the first time that ever happened, according to the weather service.

On Thursday, a 68–year–old man died from a heart attack due to heat exhaustion in Bethel Township, about 25 miles southwest of Philadelphia, according to CNN.

In Illinois, Cook County reported one death from organic cardiovascular disease with heat stress as a contributing factor, according to NBC News. 

Meanwhile, an at–risk missing 74–year–old man, Mitchell Ray Cooley, died in Jackson, Mississippi, on Thursday from heat exposure, WAPT reported. 

New York City reported temperatures in the high 90s throughout the day after days of triple–digit temperatures.

The city’s electric grid was under heavy strain due to the heat, with energy giant Con Edison asking some customers in Queens and Brooklyn to conserve energy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported increasing rates of heat–related illness in the Northeast.

The extreme heat was expected to ease somewhat with thunderstorms expected across the east coast into Sunday night.

Family and friends of Liam Bracken will take on the Chorley Three Peaks Challenge today (Saturday, July 4), in the hope of raising around £5,000 for road safety improvements on Jackson Heights Road.

The 17-year-old tragically died after losing control of his vehicle on the road on September 22, 2025.

His family believe more could be done to improve road safety and hope the fundraiser will help raise awareness while supporting their campaign for change.

Speaking to The Bolton News, Liam’s mum, Nicola Bracken, said: “I sadly lost my son last year and I thought it would be lovely to do some fundraising to help bring in better road safety measures.

“The council didn’t make any changes to the road afterwards, so we’re trying to raise awareness of how dangerous it is.

“We’re hoping the money raised could help towards putting a barrier on the embankment where it happened.

Nicola said the family’s aim is to prevent another tragedy.

She said: “Liam was only 17. We don’t want this to happen to any other family. We want to raise awareness, improve safety measures but also keep Liam’s legacy alive.”

The family say they contacted the council following Liam’s death but were told no changes would be made to the road.

Around 45 people, including relatives and close friends, are expected to take part in Saturday’s challenge.

Walkers will set off from The Yew Tree in Anglezarke at 10am before heading to Rivington Brewing Co at the end of the route to raise a glass in Liam’s memory.

Nicola said the support from the local community had been overwhelming.

She said: “Sharples School have been amazing. Liam was loved there and they’ve supported us so much.

“We want as many people involved as possible.

“If people can’t join us on the walk, we’d really appreciate them sharing the GoFundMe page or making a donation.”

For those wanting to make a donation can here -https://www.gofundme.com/f/chorley-three-peaks-in-memory-of-liam-bracken?ref=ed_direct

The family hope reaching their £5,000 target will help demonstrate the level of community backing for additional safety measures on Jackson Heights Road and ensure Liam’s legacy helps protect others in the future.