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Motsi Mabuse makes very cheeky remark to new presenter Josh Widdicombe during first Strictly show – as fans brand him a ‘spare part’

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Motsi Mabuse made a very cheeky remark to new presenter Josh Widdicombe during the first Strictly Come Dancing live show on Saturday night - as he was branded a 'spare part' by fans

Motsi Mabuse made a very cheeky remark to new presenter Josh Widdicombe during the first Strictly Come Dancing live show on Saturday night – as he was branded a ‘spare part’ by viewers.

Things got off to a shaky start with new presenting trio Josh, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman this year.

Comedian Josh, 43, was presenting from the dance floor with Emma, 50, as Tess did previously, while Johannes interviewed the stars from the auditorium like Claudia.

However, the decision didn’t go down well with viewers, who remarked that Josh looked like a ‘spare part’ next to seasoned professional Emma, before noticing that he missed his cue twice during the show.

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Josh was also on the receiving end of a sassy comment from judge Motsi, 45, as Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, 48, and her pro partner Julian Caillon were getting their feedback.

After Craig Revel Horwood gave his rather cutting feedback, Motsi turned to him to say that she actually agreed with what he was saying for once, which led to Craig quipping: ‘Great – we can move on to Shirley [Ballas] then!’

Motsi burst out laughing before then replying: ‘Well I have to do my job too!’

Josh then jokingly shouted: ‘Shirley!’ as if to skip over Motsi’s feedback like Craig had suggested.

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Motsi Mabuse made a very cheeky remark to new presenter Josh Widdicombe during the first Strictly Come Dancing live show on Saturday night – as he was branded a ‘spare part’ by fans

Things got off to a shaky start with new presenting trio Josh, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman this year

Things got off to a shaky start with new presenting trio Josh, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe taking over from Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman this year

Motsi then cheekily remarked to Josh: ‘Well are we going to be friends or enemies, you choose now!’ as the audience and Josh laughed it off.

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Reacting to the moment on X, one viewer said: ‘Josh feared for his P45 in Week 1. Motsi ate him up.’ 

Emma, Josh and Johannes have received mixed reactions since they took over from Tess and Claudia, who departed the BBC show at the end of the 2025 series. 

No doubt with a lot on her mind, Emma joked she was feeling ‘nervous’ about the live aspect of the show before introducing the judges and contestants to the stage.

And after it was revealed Josh and Emma would present together on the dance floor Josh was branded a ‘spare part’ by some. 

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He did, however, earn some praise for making a ‘change partners’ joke, in a playful throwback to the new musical chairs-style format used to announce the pairs in the launch show. 

As Josh stood on the dancefloor looking bemused Emma, Johannes and judge Craig appeared alongside him, while Josh wailed ‘change partners’, leaving viewers in hysterics. 

Many reacted to the new trio on X as they penned: ‘I’m not going to be one of the people hating on Josh. For me the problem is that three hosts just aren’t needed. He’s just standing there awkwardly next to Emma without much to do. Josh should’ve been up where Johannes is and Johannes should be dancing imo.’,

‘ngl, i’m not a fan of this hosts setup. i’d switch jojo and josh around, why book a comedian and not put him causing chaos and fun in the clauditorium (or whatever we call it these days) #Strictly.’,

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Is Strictly making a mistake by swapping expericenced hosts for social media stars?

Amid his presenting Josh was also on the receiving end of a sassy comment from judge Motsi, 45, as Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, 48, and her pro partner Julian got their feedback

Amid his presenting Josh was also on the receiving end of a sassy comment from judge Motsi, 45, as Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, 48, and her pro partner Julian got their feedback

Reacting to the moment on X, one viewer said: 'Josh feared for his P45 in Week 1. Motsi ate him up'

Reacting to the moment on X, one viewer said: ‘Josh feared for his P45 in Week 1. Motsi ate him up’

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Many reacted to the new trio on X as they penned: 'I'm not going to be one of the people hating on Josh. For me the problem is that three hosts just aren't needed...'

Many reacted to the new trio on X as they penned: ‘I’m not going to be one of the people hating on Josh. For me the problem is that three hosts just aren’t needed…’

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‘Ok. I still don’t feel it. It might have fared better if it was just Josh upstairs and Emma on her own. I feel that dynamic would’ve had more flow. What’s everyone else thinking??.’,

‘Everyone is being quite hard on Josh but he’s really not the problem. He should be up in the Clauditorium to crack jokes with the contestants. Emma is fantastic and such a natural so she should be on her own on the main floor. Three hosts are too much.’

No one will be leaving the show this week, with the scores from week one combined with next week’s before the first elimination next Sunday. 

Up first to perform was Big Brother presenter Will Best, 41, who performed the Samba to Rock DJ by Robbie Williams with his partner Dianne Buswell. 

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While there was rapturous applause from the audience, Craig Revel Horwood was quick to point out Will’s ‘sloppy’ arms, and awarded him four points, the same as Shirley Ballas. 

Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke awarded Will scores of five, giving him a total score of 18. 

Then it was time for British skeleton racer Tabby Stoecker, 25, to jive to Animal by KATSEYE with new pro Mark Karmalita. 

She particularly impressed Anton, who said it was like seeing last year’s winner Karen Carney back on the dancefloor. He awarded her a score of seven. In turn, Motsi gave six, and Shirley five for a very respectable first week score of 22. 

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Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, 48, was paired with Julian Caillon and they took on the Quickstep to C’est Magnifique by Kay Starr. 

After a few mistakes in her routine, Dame Storey was awarded a three by Craig and fours by the remaining judges, giving her a final score of 15. 

Emmerdale’s Lawrence Robb, 34, and Jowita Przystał performed the Paso Doble to Aperture by Harry Styles, earning him a four from Craig, fives from Motsi and Shirley and a six from Anton, totalling 20. 

Former footballer Shaun Wright-Phillips, 44, stepped up to perform the Cha Cha to Lil Boo Thang by Paul Russell, with his partner Alexis Warr. 

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He failed to impress, earning a two from Craig, fours from Motsi and Shirley and five from Anton for 15 overall. 

House Of The Dragon actress and West End star Bethany Antonia, 28, performed a Quickstep to Stop This Flame by Celeste. 

She was paired with Nancy Xu, having requested a female dance partner after Nicola Adams and Katya Jones’s coupling in 2020 helped with her coming out journey.

The move paid off, with the pair’s dance branded the best of the night so far and earning them a score of 26 – consisting of sixes from Craig and Shirley and sevens from Anton and Motsi. 

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However, they didn’t stay top of the leaderboard for long.

EastEnders actress Lacey Turner, 38, performed a Cha Cha to How Will I Know by Whitney Houston alongside fan favourite Vito Coppola, earning a standing ovation from Shirley. 

The routine earned them 27 – with sevens from Craig, Shirley and Anton and six from Motsi. 

Comedian Josh, 43, was presenting from the dance floor with Emma, 50, as Tess did previously, while Johannes interviewed the stars from the auditorium like Claudia

Comedian Josh, 43, was presenting from the dance floor with Emma, 50, as Tess did previously, while Johannes interviewed the stars from the auditorium like Claudia 

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During Strictly's first live show YouTuber John Nellis surprisingly topped the leaderboard as viewers finally warmed to the 'worst-ever' lineup

During Strictly’s first live show YouTuber John Nellis surprisingly topped the leaderboard as viewers finally warmed to the ‘worst-ever’ lineup

STRICLY COME DANCING LEADERBOARD: WEEK ONE 

Here’s how the leaderboard currently stands…

31 – John Nellis and Katya Jones – Foxtrot

29 – Delta Goodrem and Kai Widdington – Samba

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27 – Lacey Turner and Vito Coppola – Cha Cha

26 – Bethany Antonia and Nancy Xu – Quickstep

24 – Graeme Hall and Lauren Oakley – Cha Cha 

22 – Dani Dyer and Nikita Kuzmin – Samba 

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22 – Tabby Stoecker and Mark Karmalita – Jive 

21 – Jaime Winstone and Carlos Gu – Tango 

20 – Cach Mercer and Maddie Ingoldsby – Quickstep 

20 – Lawrence Robb and Jowita Przystał – Pasa Doble 

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18 – Will Best and Dianne Buswell – Samba 

16 – Chris Appleton and Amy Dowden – Tango 

15 – Melanie Walters and Aljaž Škorjanec – Cha Cha

15 – Shaun Wright-Phillips and Alexis Warr – Cha Cha

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15 – Dame Sarah Storey and Julian Caillon – Quickstep

 

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Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, 43, teamed up with show veteran and fan favourite Amy Dowden to Tango to No Roots by Alice Merton. 

They scored 16 – made up of three from Craig, four from Motsi and Shirley and five from Anton.

The oldest celebrity in the new series, Gavin & Stacey star Melanie Walters, 64, took on the Cha Cha to Don’t Go Breaking My Heart by Elton John and Kiki Dee.

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Paired with long-time pro Aljaž Škorjanec, she scored a total of 15 – including two from Craig, fours from Motsi and Shirley and five from Anton.

Love Island star Cach Mercer, 25, performed a Quickstep to I Just Might by Bruno Mars with new pro dancer Maddie Ingoldsby. 

The pair were criticised for adding too much freestyle to the ballroom routine but still scored a respectable 20 – three from Craig, sixes from Motsi and Anton and five from Shirley. 

Dog trainer Graeme Hall, 59, was a dark horse on the night as he showed off his skills doing the Cha Cha to Hound Dog (Smokey Joe’s Café version) with his partner Lauren Oakley. 

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Craig, Motsi, Shirley and Anton all awarded him six points for a total of 24. 

The stakes were high for actress Jaime Winstone, 41, who was paired with reigning champion Carlos Gu for her Tango to I Feel Love by Donna Summer. 

Yet she proved she could hold her own, and while there were some criticisms for not including enough ballroom moves, she still scored 21 – fives from Craig, Motsi and Shirley and six from Anton. 

A year later than she’d hoped, Dani Dyer, 30, finally made it onto the dancefloor, reuniting with her dance partner Nikita Kuzmin after an ankle injury forced her to withdraw before the live shows last year.

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The pair’s first dance was a Samba to Lush Life by Zara Larsson, and it was worth the wait, with Dani earning sixes from Craig and Anton and fives from Motsi and Shirley for a score of 22. 

They were cheered on by Dani’s famous father Danny – who sat proudly in the front row of the audience. 

Sports Youtuber John, 33, and Katya then had their dance labelled the ‘best’ of the night – earning scores of eights from Shirley, Motsi and Anton and a seven from Craig to send them rocketing to the top of the leaderboard. 

Australian singer and actress Delta Goodrem, 41, rounded off the show by performing the Samba to Baianá by Barbatuques with her partner Kai Widdrington.

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They scored 29 after eight from Motsi and sevens from Craig, Shirley and Anton.

The live show allowed viewers to warm to the celebrity contestants, after the lineup was previously branded ‘the worst ever’.

The celeb lineup was announced on social media this year rather than on radio and TV, but many followers had never heard of the names.

John, for example, a ‘sports content creator’, doesn’t even have a Wikipedia page.

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But that doesn’t seem to matter to producers, who are said to have specifically selected stars who have large social media followings, rather than being known to the average Joe.

In recent years, BBC bosses have started to introduce content creators, reality stars and online influencers to the lineup in a bid to attract Gen Z viewers.

It’s a move that paid off, with YouTuber Joe Sugg, Made In Chelsea’s Jamie Laing and Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri for example, all proving popular with fans and reaching the final.

Yet this year, that idea was put into overdrive, with an insider claiming the series has actively targeted stars with a big social presence to attract younger viewers.

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Stars such as Kim Kardashian’s hair stylist Chris might not be a household name, but he does boast a huge social media following with four million fans on Instagram.

Sports YouTuber John has an even bigger fanbase, with 15.7 million YouTube subscribers.

However, loyal fans were left scratching their heads over the lineup, with many of the comments on the Strictly social posts asking who the celebrity is, rather than expressing any excitement.

Indeed, while bosses may be keen to attract Gen Z – the majority of Strictly viewers are in fact Gen X and Baby Boomers.

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Audience demographic data indicates that around 60 per cent of the audience is aged 55 or older, putting the average viewer age firmly in the mid-50s and above.

Yet this year, it’s been suggested Strictly is following a similar, hugely successful social media strategy employed by its US counterpart Dancing With The Stars.

STRICTLY COME DANCING 2026: MEET THE CONTESTANTS

LACEY TURNER 

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AGE: 38

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Playing Stacey Slater on BBC’s EastEnders 

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I’m so excited and terrified at the same time but I’ve had so many friends do Strictly and I thought it was about time that I plunked up the courage and made my way onto that dance floor.’

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DELTA GOODREM

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AGE: 41

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Played Nina Tucker in Neighbours and has released eight music albums

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WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I’ve been incredibly honoured to perform on many different stages throughout my career – from tv, theatre, film sets, to touring my own shows around the world, there is however one stage I’ve never stepped onto and that is the ballroom floor!’

CACH MERCER

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AGE: 25

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BEST KNOWN FOR?: Won Love Island 2025 and is a TikTok influencer

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I have grown up watching the show with my family and am so excited to now be part of the cast. Dancing is a huge passion of mine and I can’t wait to learn Ballroom and do the Foxtrot for the first time!’

DAME SARAH STOREY

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AGE: 48

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Britain’s most successful Paralympian 

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘Embarking on a new challenge so soon after stepping down as an athlete is hugely exciting.’

BETHANY ANTONIA 

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AGE: 28

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Plays Lady Baela Targaryen in House of the Dragon

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I have grown up watching Strictly, and I am so excited to take the challenge on and (hopefully!) learn a new skill.’

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GRAEME ‘THE DOGFATHER’ HALL

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AGE: 59

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Hosts Channel 5 series Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly

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WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I have watched the show for years, so to be a part of it feels like a very exciting challenge, albeit more than a bit nerve-wracking!’

TABBY STOECKER 

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AGE: 25

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BEST KNOWN FOR?: Olympic champion skeleton racer

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I’ve had the wildest year of my life so far, so to be rounding it off with a childhood dream of dancing in the Strictly ballroom is surreal and I can’t wait to get stuck in!’

MELANIE WALTERS 

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AGE: 64

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Playing Gwen West in BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘Performing in Pantomime for the last 15 years, my Strictly ‘fix’ has always been watching in a dressing room rather than my front room.’

DANI DYER

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AGE: 30

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Winning Love Island and being the daughter of actor Danny Dyer

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I am so excited to be back in the ballroom this September! I just cannot wait to get my dancing shoes back on and hopefully this time around I can actually make it to week one!’

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CHRIS APPLETON

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AGE: 43

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Hairdresser to the stars – including Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez

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WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I’m thrilled to be joining Strictly and coming home to the UK for this incredible experience. I’ve always believed that the best things happen when you take a chance and try something new.’

WILL BEST

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AGE: 41

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BEST KNOWN FOR?: Hosts Big Brother and previously TV

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I’ve been lucky to do lots of live telly before, but absolutely nothing like this. And I cannot wait!’

JAIME WINSTONE

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AGE: 41

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Starring in films such as Kidulthood and Tomb Raider

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I am no stranger to a dance floor, but the ballroom is a whole new world for me.’

SHAUN WRIGHT-PHILLIPS 

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AGE: 44

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Footballer who played for the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘Strictly is definitely outside my comfort zone, but I’m super excited to get started and really looking forward to the challenge!’

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LAWRENCE ROBB

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AGE: 34

BEST KNOWN FOR?: Plays Mackenzie Boyd on ITV’s Emmerdale

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WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I can’t quite believe that I am going to be getting my dancing shoes on this September on one of my favourite shows of all time!’

JOHN NELLIS 

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AGE: 33

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BEST KNOWN FOR?: Face of a popular football-focused YouTube channel

WHY STRICTLY?: ‘I can’t wait to meet everyone, learn a new skill and, hopefully, be much better at family parties by the end of it!’

 

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What we know about RAF Fairford incident and counter-terror probe

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Satellite map of RAF Fairford and the nearby village of Whelford, showing the airbase boundary outlined in white. Labels indicate locations where vans were reportedly seen by members of the public and where suspects were arrested.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the incident was “deeply concerning” and the government would “always take every step necessary” to protect people.

The prime minister urged people “not to speculate while the authorities establish the full facts”.

Speaking to BBC Breakfast on Monday, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting thanked members of the public for their vigilance and quick action to alert emergency services to the plot.

He added that the farmer who told the BBC about her 999 call “did the right thing” in reporting the men but said she only had a “partial picture”, without expanding further.

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The defence secretary said “this is not the time for me to speculate” over whether there was any Iranian involvement in the plot.

On Iranian threats to the UK more generally, Streeting added: “We know that Iran and their proxies wish to do us harm.”

“In the dangerous and turbulent world we find ourselves in, investment in defence is a price worth paying,” he added.

The Iranian embassy in London said it “categorically rejects and strongly condemns” what it called “unfounded and malicious speculations” linking Iran to the incident, adding that these would “serve no purpose other than to fuel Iranophobia propaganda in the UK”.

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In a statement, the embassy said Iran “reserves the right to take appropriate legal measures, as necessary, to safeguard the rights and interests of the country and its people in response to misleading and damaging media narratives”.

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Trump poised to send UK diesel prices soaring again with US exports embargo – as Burnham reveals he is pleading for an exemption

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Donald Trump says he is considering export curbs that could twist the knife again on motorists

Donald Trump is poised to hammer British drivers as he mulls curbs on US diesel exports.

The president is ‘very seriously’ considering restrictions in a desperate to keep costs for Americans down and shore up support ahead of November’s midterm elections.

The White House house has sparked market wobbles by teeing up a mystery announcement at 7pm UK time – after previously trying to play down the prospect of a full ban on exports.

Andy Burnham stressed ministers are ‘on it’ this evening, suggesting the UK is seeking an exemption from any action.

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Mr Burnham said during an LBC phone-in that ‘we are working closely with the US’ on the diesel issue. Pressed whether he would ask for special treatment, the premier said ‘we do make that case all of the time’.

Mr Burnham admitted Brits are facing a ‘hard situation’ as UK diesel prices hit a new all-time high.

The RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022.

Brent Crude, which has soared during the Iran war crisis, topped $108 a barrel overnight, suggesting the problems could get worse.

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The grim news on diesel will also heap pressure on ministers to ditch plans for fuel duty to increase from next year.

Donald Trump says he is considering export curbs that could twist the knife again on motorists

Andy Burnham said he knew people are 'struggling' after the RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022

Andy Burnham said he knew people are ‘struggling’ after the RAC revealed average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022

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The RAC said average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022 (file picture)

The RAC said average pump prices have reached 199.18p, topping the 199.09p seen in June 2022 (file picture) 

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The extent of any limits remains unclear, but they could have a devastating impact on British motorists. Experts fear that could reach £3 a litre.

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: ‘The average price of a litre of diesel has now reached the highest level in UK history at 199.18p, in what will be a financial blow to households and businesses that use their vehicles regularly. 

‘The cost of filling up an average family car is now almost £110, £31 more than it was at the start of the US-Iran conflict. 

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‘By eclipsing the previous highest price of 199.09p seen in June 2022, the diesel price has entered new uncharted territory. 

‘This spells pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans; undoubtedly these increased costs will be passed on to consumers.

‘Petrol prices, too, are continuing to rise. A litre of unleaded stands at 174.13p on average, 41p more than at the start of the war – taking the cost of a full tank to nearly £96.

‘These extraordinarily high prices are another reminder of just how exposed the UK is to events occurring far away from its shores. 

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‘Only a sustained lower oil price – over several weeks, not days – will lead to cheaper prices at the pumps.’

Mr Williams urged Mr Healey to take steps at the Budget to lower pressure on motorists.

Asked about the potential impact of US export curbs during a Politico event at Labour conference last night, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: ‘Clearly something like that … would be a significant concern to the UK. 

‘Our resilience comes from a diverse supply in a whole range of areas and fuel is no different to that.’ 

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Economists have warned that export curbs could reduce US diesel prices in the short-term, but might actually push them higher in the long term. There are fears that the world’s largest exporter limiting supplies might well push European countries into recession. 

Attending a golf tournament in Illinois last night, Mr Trump told Fox News: ‘We’re thinking about it very seriously…

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month

Calls are growing for Chancellor John Healey to act to curb costs for motorists in the Budget next month

‘That can oftentimes lead to a little bit of an increase on gasoline for cars, so we’re looking at it very seriously. We may do it.’

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Fuel duty, which raised £24billion last year, accounts for 52.95p a litre of the price for petrol and diesel.

It was due to rise by 5p but last May prime minister Sir Keir Starmer pushed that back until the end of the year.

Opposition parties are urging Mr Healey to extend the freeze further.

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Man and woman killed in workplace incident as emergency services race to scene

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Belfast Live

A man in his 50s and woman in her 20s were killed at the industrial premises

Two people were killed in a workplace incident this morning (Monday), according to Gardaí. The incident happened at an industrial premises in Banagher today (September 28), at approximately 11.40am.

Gardaí and emergency services responded to the incident where a man, in his 50s and a woman, in her 20s, were pronounced dead at the scene.

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Their bodies remain at the scene.

Post-mortem examinations will take place at Tullamore General Hospital at a later date, and the coroner has been notified. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been notified.

A spokesman for the HSA said: “The Health and Safety Authority is aware of the fatal incident and has launched an investigation. As such, no further information is available at this time.”

Want to see more of the stories you love from Belfast Live? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives… To add Belfast Live as a preferred source, simply click here.

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Flutter and Entain warn over hit from Brazilian gambling ban

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Flutter and Entain warn over hit from Brazilian gambling ban

The group, which also owns brands including Coral, said it had launched a consultation that could see a fifth of its 2,000-strong customer care jobs go across 11 countries, including the UK, as part of ongoing efforts to “address the impact of the UK’s increased gambling taxes”.

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Royal jokes with Kevin Sinfield during York MND challenge

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Royal jokes with Kevin Sinfield during York MND challenge

Sir Kevin is completing an ultramarathon every day for seven days in his 7 in 7: The Grand Finale venture.

Sir Kevin Sinfield and Lewis Moody at the University of York Athletics Track on day two of the 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge – Shiptonthorpe to Bishopthorpe (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

On Monday (September 28), he arrived at the University of York’s sport centre where he was greeted by the Princess Royal along with scores of well-wishers.

As the pair chatted, Sir Kevin agreed with the royal visitor that the term “fun run” was a “contradiction”.

Anne said: “I can run but I don’t do it for fun. I’m past that stage.”

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Sir Kevin said: “Well, you’re welcome to join at any point”, to which the Princess Royal replied: “I’ll stick with horses.”

The Princess Royal and Jo Ropner, Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, with Lewis Moody at the University of York on day two of Sir Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

One of his team said nobody had ever joined them for a leg on a horse.

Anne laughed and said: “That would be nice.”

She asked Sir Kevin if he was enjoying the sunny weather, but he replied: “If I’m being brutally honest, I’d love it to be bouncing down”, telling the Princess Royal that it helps with fundraising if people watching on TV think he is having a hard time.

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When she asked him about his diet and nutrition for the runs, Sir Kevin said he would let her into his secret about how he is fuelled by bacon butties.

Back on the track, Sir Kevin told supporters: “Really, really well done everybody.

“Keep sharing your stories, keep looking after each other.”

The royal visitor watched as Sir Kevin did four laps of the university’s athletics track with his supporters and then banged a drum seven times to send him on his way.

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She also chatted to people who had come to support the event, including many living with MND.

The Princess Royal at the University of York Athletics Track, on day two of Sir Kevin Sinfield’s 7 in 7: The Grand Finale 2026 Challenge (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

Former England rugby union star Lewis Moody, who announced last year that he had been diagnosed with MND, surprised Sir Kevin by turning up at the track, after telling him yesterday that he could not make it.

Moody said: “Kevin Sinfield is a remarkable human being.”

He said: “If this is going to be Kev’s last big challenge – which we don’t believe for a second – then I had to be here to thank him for all that he’s done.

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“I’m grateful to be here as someone living with MND.

“I’m also just proud to be here participating and supporting Kev.”

Asked about his conversation with Anne, Moody said: “Kindred spirit recognises kindred spirit. And I think she sees that in Kev.

“To have her energy and presence here today is just a fantastic thing for this community.”

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Inspired by former Leeds Rhinos team-mate Rob Burrow, who died in 2024 after living with MND for four-and-a-half years, Sir Kevin and his team have raised more than £11 million for the MND community since his first annual challenge in 2020.

Six charities are set to benefit once again from this year’s fundraising – the MND Association, Leeds Hospitals Charity, My Name5 Doddie Foundation, Darby Rimmer Foundation, MND Scotland and the Irish MND Association.

Each ultramarathon is split into seven-kilometre blocks, which must be completed within the hour before starting the next.

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There will also be an “extra mile” event every day, when Sir Kevin joins members of the MND community in completing four laps of a running track.

The home grounds of the 12 English Betfred Super League clubs will be visited, before finishing on the pitch at Old Trafford ahead of the Super League Grand Final, where his son Jack will play for Wakefield against Warrington.

Sir Kevin sets off on Sunday morning from Hull KR’s Craven Park before heading across the city to the MKM Stadium, the home of Hull FC, and out to Market Weighton, with the first day’s event finishing in Shiptonthorpe.

Former England boss Southgate also joined Sir Kevin’s team during the run towards the finish.

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FAI to investigate alleged racist abuse of Swansea City star during Israel clash

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Wales Online

The incident happened during a controversial contest in Debrecen

The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed it’s to launch an investigation into alleged racist chants aimed at Adam Idah during the Republic of Ireland’s tense UEFA Nations League clash with Israel on Sunday.

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However, the incident will not be investigated by UEFA themselves as their protocols into racist abuse had not been followed on the night.

According to the Irish Times, Jayson Molumby claimed he heard racist chants towards the Swansea City striker, who was on target in a 3-0 win for his side.

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Molumby had allegedly told officials to listen out for the chants, but because he hadn’t actually stated a racist incident had occurred, and because the officials hadn’t heard anything themselves, the governing body won’t be launching an investigation.

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Nevertheless, the FAI has pledged to review the video evidence from the game, and will present any findings to UEFA.

“We’re going to review the video evidence from the game and try and determine if there is any evidence of racism,” said an FAI spokesperson.

“If we believe that to be the case, we will send [the evidence] to UEFA demanding an investigation into the incident.”

It’s claimed Idah himself was unaware of any abuse.

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Ireland’s clash with Israel has been in sharp focus all week, with Idah and his team-mates holding a meeting on Friday to decide whether they would even go through with the fixture, amid widespread protests against Israel from Irish fans and politicians.

The FAI voted to play both Nations League games against Israel, but they were moved to neutral venues.

Sunday’s clash was held in the Hungarian city of Debrecen, with some 300 Israel supporters admitted, and no tickets sold to ‘away’ Irish fans.

The return game this weekend is set to be held in Backa Topola in Serbia, and there is still some pressure on the Irish side to boycott that game.

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It’s claimed further discussions are likely around whether the team decides to play the upcoming fixture.

Asked directly whether his team would fulfil the game, Irish boss Heimir Hallgrimsson had no update.

“It was a tough enough decision to play this game,” he said.

“You know the story, everything seems to leak from private player meetings. You probably know more than me.”

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*Follow all of our social channels to ensure you stay up to date with the latest Swans news. Sign up to our daily newsletter here and our WhatsApp channel here. Our Swansea City correspondent Tom Coleman is also on social media. He can be found on his X account here, on Instagram, on TikTok and on Facebook.

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Derry disorder sees police attacked with ‘cans of paint, petrol bombs and glass bottles’

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Belfast Live

Fires were lit on roads and fireworks were let off in the area too, police said.

Petrol bombs, glass bottles, and cans of paint were thrown at police during disorder in Derry on Sunday night.

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Police dealt with “sporadic disorder” in the Waterside area of the city from shortly after 7.30pm on September 27, with fires lit on roads and fireworks let off in the Strabane Old Road/Irish Street area.

Some of those involved in attacking police in the area had their faces covered, a police spokesperson said.

A PSNI spokesperson added: “A large number of people gathered in the area, watching on. Irish Street was closed as officers worked to bring the situation under control.

“By 11pm, the area had returned to normal, however, police maintained a presence for a time to ensure no further incidents occurred.

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“While some police vehicles were damaged, fortunately, there were no injuries reported to police officers, or to members of the public, or properties. An investigation is underway to identify all those involved.”

Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney said: “Our courageous and dedicated officers put themselves in harm’s way to protect the local community.

“Valuable police resources were used to deal with this situation last night, resources which should have been available to help victims of crime. It is completely unacceptable.”

Anyone with information, including dash-cam, CCTV or other footage, can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1245 of 27/09/26.

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Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.

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

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Cheapest fuel in your area as prices hit all-time high

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Cambridgeshire Live

Drivers are now paying the highest ever recorded prices at the forecourt

The average price of diesel in the UK has hit an all-time record high. Standard diesel climbed to an average cost of 199.18p per litre this weekend as forecourts around the country continue to hike up prices.

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According to the RAC, that is the highest price ever recorded in the UK, beating the previous high of 199.09p per litre in June 2022. The price of diesel has risen by 20 per cent since the middle of July as the pressure on global oil markets caused by the Iran war caused a second spike in UK prices.

The average price of standard unleaded petrol is now at 174.1p per litre, and while this has also risen sharply in recent weeks, it has not reached the same record levels as diesel. Following the invasion of Ukraine, the price of unleaded peaked in July 2022 at 191.5p per litre.

The price of standard unleaded is also rising, and could break through the £2 barrier with more than 50 forecourts at motorway service stations now charging 199.9p per litre.

You can find the cheapest petrol prices in your area by using our postcode interactive here:

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According to the latest Fuel Finder data published by the government and based on figures supplied by retailers, the highest price being charged for diesel around the country today is 219.9p per litre. That price is being advertised at more than 100 motorway service station garages mostly operated by BP and Welcome Break.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “The average price of a litre of diesel has now reached the highest level in UK history, in what will be a financial blow to households and businesses that use their vehicles regularly.

“The cost of filling up an average family car is now almost £110, £31 more than it was at the start of the US-Iran conflict.

“This spells pain not only at the pumps for drivers, but for everyone who buys goods or services that rely on diesel lorries and vans; undoubtedly, these increased costs will be passed on to consumers. Only a sustained lower oil price – over several weeks, not days – will lead to cheaper prices at the pumps.”

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Britain cannot afford a spending spree, warns Burnham’s Chancellor as he pleads for realism at Labour conference

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Chancellor John Healey made his first address to Labour conference in Liverpool amid mounting alarm at the state of the public finances

John Healey warned Labour cannot afford a Tony Blair-style spending splurge today as he tried to cool nerves about Budget tax hikes.

In a plea for realism from Left-wing activists at the party’s conference in Liverpool, the Chancellor said the money that was poured into the public sector under New Labour is ‘simply not there now’.

Mr Healey insisted that he will stick to the fiscal rules, again fuelling speculation that taxes will need to rise at the Budget.

He also argued that it is ‘not progressive’ to run up a ‘bigger and bigger benefits bill’ – and suggested that Labour would focus on getting young people into work rather than giving them welfare.

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The Chancellor claimed there was still room for ‘new hope’ despite ‘everything we face’, unveiling a new local apprenticeships push overseen by mayors.  

But the Government is facing an increasingly bleak backdrop as surging inflation from the Middle East crisis and sluggish growth wreaks havoc with the finances.

Ironically, lower immigration forecasts from the Treasury’s Office for Budget Responsibility watchdog could also deal a blow to Mr Healey’s ‘headroom’ against the fiscal rules – potentially as much as £7billion – by reducing expected revenues.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Andy Burnham has made a series of big spending commitments, including a pledge yesterday to introduce an NHS-style social care service after the next election that could cost £18billion a year. 

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There is speculation that could be partly funded by downgrading the state pension ‘triple lock’ – which sees the payments rise by the highest out of inflation, earnings and 2.5 per cent. 

Capital gains tax is among the levies floated for the Chancellor to bring in more cash and reassure markets that the Government will balance its books.

Chancellor John Healey made his first address to Labour conference in Liverpool amid mounting alarm at the state of the public finances

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Andy Burnham was on the stage to watch his Chancellor's speech today

Andy Burnham was on the stage to watch his Chancellor’s speech today 

Renewed Iran war tensions have seen Brent Crude hit $108 a barrel overnight.  

And the pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is ‘seriously’ looking at a US diesel exports embargo. 

That would curb prices for Americans, but push them up dramatically in the rest of the world. 

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Mr Healey said: ‘I know the 90s is having a bit of a revival. To Andy’s excitement, Oasis is going back on tour, to Angela’s joy Gladiators is back on TV. But I have to level with you conference, the money New Labour had in the 90s is simply not there now.

‘Economic growth under Gordon (Brown) was more than double the Tory years that followed, and Britain has it harder now.’

Mr Healey blamed ’14 years of flatlining Tory growth and living standards’.

He said the Government wanted to restore confidence in the economy and help boost family finances.

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‘Labour isn’t just here to cut the cake in a different way, we have to bake a bigger cake and make sure that it’s fairly shared,’ he said.

‘So whether it’s the cost of business or the cost of living, the only long-term answer is growth.’

Nodding to soaring interest costs on the Government’s borrowing, Mr Healey said: ‘The cost of the nation’s debt is not just a number in a Chancellor’s budget. It’s the money that we can’t spend on the NHS, on schools, on housing, on social care, on policing our streets, on controlling our borders, on defending our country.

‘I tell you, these levels of debt are an assault on our common sense. They’re an affront to our values, and that’s why the Prime Minister and I are in lockstep, that we will meet the fiscal rules, that we will maintain control of Britain’s finances.’

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The Tories and Reform have been demanding Labour slashes benefits to fund more spending in areas such as defence, instead of hiking taxes. 

Mr Healey said: ‘Conference, it is not progressive to allow a bigger and bigger benefits bill, and a system which offers an income but doesn’t offer a future.

‘So once again, as a Labour government, it falls to us to act. And this is more than just an economic must. This is a moral duty.

‘I refuse to write off a million young people like the Tories have done.’

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He added: ‘I see a generation born this century, digital natives, whip-smart, questioning, ambitious, brave, I see the best asset we have in our young people, and I believe this generation has the potential to be a great generation.

‘And I believe we can help this generation move from generation jeopardy to generation hope.’

Mr Healey tried to strike an upbeat note, saying Britain can enter a ‘new age of industrialisation’.

The Chancellor argued that the UK cannot return to the coal mines of its past.

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Describing his politics as ‘shaped by the industrial heartlands of South Yorkshire’, he pointed to the example of the former Orgreave mine, now the site of Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park. 

‘Our coal mines are not coming back,’ he said.

‘But this is how Britain’s industrial past is being remade now for the modern world.

‘This is the new age of industrialisation. A new confidence in Britain.’

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Mr Healey, who quit as Sir Keir Starmer’s defence secretary in a row over funding for the military, confirmed more support for Britain’s shipbuilding industry, with investment in the Royal Navy’s Scottish submarine base at its heart.

He said three new floating docks at HM Naval Base Clyde, Faslane, will be procured through a UK-only competition.

Known as Programme Euston, plans for the new docks were first set out in 2023 and are expected to upgrade Faslane’s facilities for the next generation of British submarines.

The Ministry of Defence has previously said they are expected to come into service in the early 2030s, and the docks form part of a wider £15billion upgrade programme for the Royal Navy’s shipyards.

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The announcement follows a commitment by Louise Haigh, the First Secretary of State, who said on Sunday the Government would commission a new marine research vessel as part of plans for a ‘new era of reindustrialisation’.

Mr Healey announced £115million in funding for the ship, which is also set to come into service in the early 2030s.

Ahead of his speech, he said: ‘By backing British shipyards, we are not only boosting national security but also securing resilience in the industries that will drive growth today while building the capabilities the country needs for the future.’

Plans for a new age of industrialisation echo Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to prioritise ‘reindustrialisation’ as a way of boosting Britain’s sluggish growth.

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But the Chancellor’s conference speech coincides with more gloomy economic news from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

A survey by the business group found private sector firms saw falling activity in the three months up to September, and expect activity to continue to decline for the rest of the year.

Much of that decline was driven by retail and services, with manufacturing declining more moderately.

CBI deputy chief economist Alpesh Paleja said rising energy and employment costs combined with weak demand were continuing to put pressure on profit margins.

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He added: ‘Uncertainty ahead of next month’s Budget is also holding back activity in some sectors.

‘Against the backdrop of renewed fiscal pressures, the Budget must draw a clear red line under any more rises in the cost of hiring, investing and doing business.’

The pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is 'seriously' looking at a US diesel exports embargo

The pain for Brits could be about to get worse as Donald Trump has said he is ‘seriously’ looking at a US diesel exports embargo

Shadow chancellor Andrew Griffith said: ‘These are more reheated announcements without clarity on where the money is coming from. Additional docks were announced months ago in the defence investment plan, which still has a £4.7 billion black hole.

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‘John Healey resigned warning that Labour’s failure to fund defence was making Britain unsafe. Now that he is Chancellor, he still won’t fund the 3% target he walked out over.

‘Labour are running scared of making the tough choices needed to pay for Britain’s defence. All they can offer is reannounced docks and more hot air from Healey. Only the Conservatives will cut the welfare bill to fund defence.’

John O’Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: ‘The chancellor offered next to nothing to defuse the benefits bomb sitting under Britain’s economy. 

‘The plans he did announce are little more than taxpayer-funded make-work schemes and bungs to trade unions dressed up as welfare and work reforms, all the while refusing to acknowledge the damage done to businesses and employment by his predecessor.

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‘If the chancellor is serious about getting young people back into work, he needs to reduce the burdens on businesses and cut welfare spending.’

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Charity legend Kevin Sinfield reveals heartbreaking moment he said final goodbye to MND hero Rob Burrow

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Daily Mirror

Rugby league legend Sir Kevin Sinfield kissed Rob Burrow on the forehead and told him that he loved him; they both knew ‘it was the last time’

Kevin Sinfield on his last MND challenge

Sir Kevin Sinfield has described his final farewell to his best friend Rob Burrow on the day before he died.

The rugby league legend kissed Rob on the forehead and told him that he loved him because they both knew ‘it was the last time’. He said the emotional encounter was ‘sad, but beautiful’.

Sinfield, 46, met former England captain Lewis Moody on Day Two of his ‘Grand Finale’ 7 in 7 epic fundraising venture.

Moody put his arm around the shoulder of Sinfield as they ran side by side.

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And Sir Kev was also given a huge morale boost when he met with the Princess Royal in York.

He has already raised more than £500,000 for Motor Neurone Disease research, taking the total raised so far to more than £14.6m with Gift Aid. It means Sir Kevin and Rob, who died in 2024 after being diagnosed with MND, have raised more than £35m between them.

Sir Kevin told how Burrow was nicknamed ‘Stevie Wonder’ because he would keep his sunglasses on and fall asleep while people spoke to him.

Sir Kevin told the High Performance podcast: “The last day I saw him was the day before he passed and it was tough. I was in an England rugby camp and got the message. I knew all week he’d been poorly and got the message he was close.

“So I got back up north and went to see him. And as I looked through the little window to his private room he was fast asleep with breathing apparatus on.”

Sinfield continued: “Anyway I crept in and saw his mum and his sister and I sat with him and he woke up. So I did what I normally did: I tried to make him laugh and told him what I was up to. It was really sad. Sad, but beautiful.

“We both knew it was the last time. I knew, I was pretty sure and I’m pretty sure he did too. The minute he opened his eyes he had the biggest smile. I always got a smile regardless of what was going on.”

He added: “It was his way of saying that everything’s alright and no matter what’s going on in life, what’s weighing heavy on you, what you’re mulling over, it doesn’t matter.

“It was his way of saying to just get on with living and loving and taking some risks. In the final interaction I kissed his forehead and told him I loved him.

“As I was leaving, I looked back one last time and he was looking back at me with a smile, which was what he always did.”

He added: “Throughout all that time he couldn’t speak he would always smile at the start and smile when I left. Even his most difficult moments when I’m sure he knew, he still found the energy for a smile.

“I only saw him upset twice, when he was first diagnosed. After that he was so positive about life.”

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The moving interview came as Rob’s son starred in a rugby match in honour of his late father.

Seven-year-old Jackson Burrow came on to score a winning try at the end of the fundraiser between Team Burrow, made up of rugby league legends, and Team Ed Slater, a team of rugby union icons. He was hoisted in the air at the end of the charity match, supporting Motor Neurone Disease research.

A teammate handed him the ball before the youngster set off on a mazy run from the halfway line, dodging his older opponents along the way. He rose elated after diving across the line to score, and his teammates lifted him into the air and patted his head.

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A delighted crowd at Welford Road, home of Leicester Tigers, applauded every step of the way, and players from both teams clapped and congratulated Jackson.

“This is quality,” commented rugby fan Andrew Forde. “What an absolute joy to see. Truly remarkable,” said another, Mike Marsh.

Rob Burrow died aged 41 but not before raising the then total of more than £30m for MND charities alongside Sir Kevin.

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Both were awarded CBEs for their efforts in raising awareness of the disease. Ed Slater, who was also represented at the charity match, is a former rugby union star diagnosed with MND in July 2022, aged 33.

He played for Gloucester and Leicester Tigers. Details of Sir Kevin’s latest challenge at https://www.therhinos.co.uk/the-club/sinfield-grand-finale

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