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New house was full of sellers’ rubbish … can we charge them for cost of clearing it out? Consumer lawyer DEAN DUNHAM KC replies

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A reader questions whether they could get money back from the seller of their new house after old belongings were left there (file photo)

We bought a new house. When we moved in, the sellers had left a broken washing machine full of clothes, a broken fridge-freezer, dirty dishes and unwanted furniture. We had to pay to have it cleared. Can we claim the money back from the seller?

Name and address supplied.

Potentially, yes – and your position could be quite strong.

When you buy a property, the seller will generally be required to give you vacant possession on completion.

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That means you should be able to move into the property and enjoy it without being confronted by the seller’s belongings, furniture or rubbish, unless you agreed that particular items could remain.

From what you describe, you did not agree to take these items. A broken washing machine containing the seller’s clothes, a broken fridge-freezer, dirty dishes and unwanted furniture are not things you should ordinarily be expected to deal with after completion.

If the seller was contractually obliged to give vacant possession, leaving these items could amount to a breach of contract. If you then had to pay a reasonable amount to have them removed and disposed of, you can seek to recover that cost from the seller as a loss resulting from the breach.

There is one important caveat: check the contract and the TA10 Fittings and Contents Form you signed during the buying process to make sure none of the items were agreed to be left at the property.

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A reader questions whether they could get money back from the seller of their new house after old belongings were left there (file photo)

I would write to the seller, explain that the property was not handed over in the agreed condition, provide photographs and the clearance invoice, and ask them to reimburse the reasonable cost of removal.

Do not overstate your claim by demanding compensation for the inconvenience. Your strongest claim is for the actual, reasonable cost you incurred in clearing up.

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My daughter lives on a street where finding a parking space is difficult. Her neighbour recently had the kerb outside her house dropped, even though she can’t park in her front garden because it has a wall. The neighbour says because the kerb is now dropped – lowered to enable access to off-road parking – no one else is allowed to park outside her house.

When my daughter did park there due to a lack of spaces, an egg was thrown at her car. Is the neighbour right about the kerb?

S.N., Northampton.

The neighbour is wrong. A dropped kerb confers no ownership of the road, and creates no private parking space.

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The highway outside a house remains public and, unless there are specific restrictions in place, such as yellow lines, a residents’ bay or similar, anyone may generally park there. Having a kerb lowered does not reserve that stretch of Tarmac for the homeowner and the neighbour cannot simply declare it hers.

The fact that she can’t even use her front garden for parking, because a wall still blocks it, rather underlines the point.

There is, however, one genuine note of caution and this is where the distinction matters. Parking on the road near the property is fine, but parking directly across the dropped section is another matter.

Under the Traffic Management Act 2004, parking across a dropped footway is a civil parking contravention that councils can enforce with a penalty notice.

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Be aware, too, that some councils will enforce this even where the resident has no usable driveway and, occasionally, even if the resident hasn’t complained. So your daughter would be wise to check her council’s stance as it varies from area to area.

What troubles me far more is the egg. Throwing an object at a vehicle could amount to criminal damage if any harm is caused, with repeated targeting potentially crossing into harassment.

My advice: avoid all confrontation. Photograph the dropped kerb, the wall and any signs or road markings, and keep a dated record of every incident.

If it happens again, especially if her car is damaged or she feels threatened, she should report it to the police.

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Dolly Parton death latest: Country star faced ‘brief battle’ with cancer, rep says

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Dolly Parton death latest: Country star faced ‘brief battle’ with cancer, rep says
Family of legendary country singer Dolly Parton announce her death

Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country music, has died at the age of 80 following a “brief battle” with cancer, her representative confirmed.

Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced the news of her death on behalf of the family on Tuesday, saying, “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus.”

Later Tuesday, a rep for Parton said, “After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” in a statement to CNN and People.

Fans and friends from around the world are paying tribute to the legendary singer, known for her hits “9 to 5” and “Jolene.”

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Fellow country singer Reba McEntire wrote in part on X, “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you.”

Donald Trump ordered flags to fly at half-staff in the U.S. to honor Parton, writing on Truth Social: “This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”

Trisha Yearwood honors Dolly

Trisha Yearwood pays tribute to Dolly Parton
Trisha Yearwood pays tribute to Dolly Parton (Getty Images)

“There aren’t words to describe what you mean to the world, Dolly,” Yearwood wrote on X.

“What I do know is that you have always been a light, and now you are shining brighter than we can imagine. Our job now is to keep that light alive. WWDD? Love one another. You walked the walk. To say your energy in this life will be missed is an understatement. We will always love you.”

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Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 03:01

John Mellencamp honors Dolly

“A legend and a true humanitarian. Rest in peace, Dolly,” Mellencamp wrote on X, alongside a heartwarming photo of the two.

Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 02:47

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Country star Randy Travis honors longtime friend: ‘There will never be another you, Dolly’

“I’ve been blessed to know many wonderful folks throughout my career in country music; but, none quite like you, Dolly. You had a way of making everyone around you feel most important. Your kindness was genuine, your faith strong, your humor lit up a room, and that beautiful heart of yours was even bigger than the remarkable voice the world fell in love with.

“I’ll always be grateful for the memories, the conversations, the laughs, and the goodness you showed me through the years—especially during the chapters of my life when your encouragement meant more than you probably ever knew,” Randy Travis wrote on Facebook.

Randy Travis pays tribute to Dolly Parton
Randy Travis pays tribute to Dolly Parton (Getty Images)

“You gave country music some of its sweetest memories and most iconic songs; but, you gave the world something greater…yourself. And, you gave it all! Now, it’s your turn to dance with Carl—

“Thank you for showing all of us how to carry success with grace and how to use the gifts God gave us to bless others. Your mission to make people happy and lift them up while glorifying God, is complete. You have planted so many trees under whose shade you will never sit… you have made this world a better place. There will never be another you, Dolly,” he added.

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Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 02:38

MLB teams play Dolly Parton’s music during tonight’s games

Several MLB teams are paying tribute to Dolly Parton at tonight’s games by playing the late country star’s music.

Songs such as Parton’s hit “9 to 5” were played at the Atlanta Braves vs. Los Angeles Dodgers game, the New York Mets vs. Milwaukee Brewers game and the Washington Nationals vs. Colorado Rockies game.

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“Braves honoring Dolly Parton with her music between innings. ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’ among selections thus far. A true American hero,” Ken Sugiura, a sports columnist for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, wrote on X.

Sportswriter Joe Pantorno wrote, “Nice touch by the #Mets playing Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 as the players take the field.”

“Classy move by the @Nationals at tonight’s game: the Crowd Karaoke was 9 to 5. RIP, @DollyParton,” Michael Townsend, a political analyst for Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., wrote.

Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 02:12

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Beyoncé pays tribute to Cowboy Carter collaborator: ‘You were the barometer’

Beyoncé honors Dolly Parton
Beyoncé honors Dolly Parton (AFP via Getty Images)

Music legend Beyoncé has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, with whom she collaborated on her 2024 Cowboy Carter album.

“You were the barometer. The north star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious,” Beyoncé wrote on her website.

“You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship. I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever.

“Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully,” the singer added.

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Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 02:03

Jason Aldean: ‘Thank you for the contributions you made’

Jason Aldean honors Dolly Parton
Jason Aldean honors Dolly Parton (Getty Images for Does Entertainment/UGA)

“Sad to hear of the passing of @DollyParton today. The term ‘legend’ gets thrown around a lot these days but she really was. An icon to the entire entertainment industry, especially the Country Music family.

“I had the privilege being around her a few times over the years and she was truly a bright light that shined just a little brighter than anyone else in the room. It’s always sad when one of our heroes passes away, but the beauty in music is that her art will live on forever.

“Rest easy Dolly and thank you for the contributions you made and the doors you kicked down for all of us that came after you,” the country star wrote on X.

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Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 01:42

Mötley Crüe pays tribute to Dolly

Mötley Crüe says working with Dolly Parton 'was one of the true highlights of our career'
Mötley Crüe says working with Dolly Parton ‘was one of the true highlights of our career’ (Getty Images for Live Nation UK)

“Working with Dolly on ‘Home Sweet Home’ was one of the true highlights of our career. We can still hear her voice saying, “Well, how about that, Dolly and Mötley at #1?”

“Thank you for the music, the laughter, the kindness and the inspiration, Dolly.

“Our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and fans around the world.

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“With love and respect, Mötley Crüe,” the hard rock band wrote on X.

Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 01:27

Country star Luke Bryan honors Dolly Parton

Luke Bryan pays tribute to Dolly Parton
Luke Bryan pays tribute to Dolly Parton (Getty Images for UCLA Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation)

“Her light, being a strong Tennessee woman, songwriting, charisma, wittiness, and the ability to make fun of herself and the ability to inspire the world is what I think about when I think of Dolly,” Bryan wrote on X.

“When you live your life and people can recognize you by one name, Dolly, I think that says it all. Rest in peace Dolly.”

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Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 01:15

Dolly Parton faced ‘brief battle’ with cancer: rep

Dolly Parton died Tuesday following a “brief battle” with cancer, her representative has confirmed to CNN and People. It’s unclear what type of cancer she had.

“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.”

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Dolly Parton died after a 'brief battle' with cancer, her rep confirmed
Dolly Parton died after a ‘brief battle’ with cancer, her rep confirmed (Getty Images)

“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.

“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”

Rachel Dobkin26 August 2026 01:04

Al Gore: ‘I’m especially grateful’

(AFP/Getty)

Former Vice President Al Gore wrote on X: “In one of her many memorable hit songs, Dolly Parton famously sang about a ‘9 to 5’ job that was ‘all taking and no giving.’

“So, in looking back on her amazing legacy, it’s fitting to remember her for all her giving to others throughout her life: all the joy she gave us all with her incredibly beautiful songwriting, her captivating voice, and her endless creative pursuits. The 300 million free books she gave to children across America and around the world through her Imagination Library. All the fun she gave to families who visited Dollywood. The crucial funding and support she gave for medical research into pediatric cancer, infectious diseases, and not least, the Moderna COVID vaccine.

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“She gave funding to provide shelter and food for the victims of disasters. I’m especially grateful for all that she gave back to our beloved home state of Tennessee. For many, her lasting gift is the inspiration to give back to our own communities with the same passion, humor, and conviction as Dolly. God bless her and may she rest in peace. We will always love her!”

Kevin Perry26 August 2026 00:42

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Golf Channel postpones show premiere after criticism of Good Good Golf video

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Jury says The New York Times defamed Alabama player

ATLANTA (AP) — Golf Channel postponed Tuesday night’s scheduled premiere of the reality show “Big Break x Good Good” by one week because one of the sponsors wanted out, as pressure increased on popular content creator Good Good Golf for its video that showed a man shoving a woman to the ground as she reached for a new Callaway driver.

Golf Channel said postponing the show to Sept. 1 “will allow for necessary production updates following a request from one of the show’s sponsors to remove its branding from the series.”

Although Golf Channel did not identify the sponsor, multiple reports said it was retailer Golf Galaxy, which had been listed as a presenting sponsor of the show.

The video — an ad for the Callaway driver — was deleted by Good Good late Friday, a day after it first was posted and immediately drew negative reaction for portraying violence against women. The characters in the ad are both with Good Good.

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Good Good apologized Saturday in a statement, saying the “depicted actions are not aligned with our values.” Callaway said it was disappointed by the video and “appreciative of Good Good addressing this.”

Good Good is the title sponsor of a new PGA Tour event in Austin, Texas, this fall, and the tour quickly expressed disappointment. Stronger words came from CEO Brian Rolapp on Tuesday when he was asked if Good Good took enough accountability.

“Initially, no,” Rolapp said. “I think what we saw was concerning and clearly not aligned with the PGA Tour values. We take it very seriously. I think their initial response was disappointing. It was a little bit defensive and late. But I think the responses are getting better. We’ve had some conversations with them, so we’ll continue to monitor and work with them going forward.”

Asked if it would affect their title sponsorship, Rolapp described it as a “fluid situation.”

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“We’ll continue to monitor the situation and see how it develops,” he said.

Callaway added another layer of apologies, this one from CEO Chip Brewer, who acknowledged that while Good Good produced the video, Callaway approved it before it was posted.

“The approval never should have happened. Mistakes were made, and we are taking the matter very seriously,” Brewer said in a statement posted on Callaway’s social media channels. “As we deal with the consequences of our mistake and complete our investigations, I want to make it clear that we sincerely apologize for the video.”

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Patrick Clancy and new wife’s secret crisis: As he weighs big move ahead of Lindsay trial verdict… those closest to him speak out

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Patrick Clancy, 38, was seen this week touring apartments in a quieter part of Manhattan

As Lindsay Clancy‘s trial nears its end in Massachusetts, her ex-husband is hundreds of miles away trying to rebuild a life that keeps being dragged back into the spotlight.

Patrick Clancy, 38, was seen this week touring apartments in a quiet neighborhood of Manhattan as he and new wife, Dr Rachel Danis, seek to escape the glare of publicity.

He rode a Citi Bike through the streets and wandered around incognito, wearing a golf-branded baseball cap and sunglasses in an apparent bid to avoid being recognized.

Patrick viewed properties with realtor Alex Grapstein from Corcoran, a real estate company specializing in luxury condos, townhouses and high-end rentals.

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The apartment hunt comes just a week after the newlyweds were secretly filmed by neighbors at the one-bedroom they currently share in busy midtown Manhattan.

Family and friends of the couple tell the Daily Mail they are struggling with a relentless wave of negative attention linked to the trial.

Cruel and totally baseless conspiracy theories have spread rapidly across social media falsely claiming Patrick was involved in the deaths of his and Lindsay’s three young children.

One of Patrick’s relatives, speaking to the Daily Mail on condition of anonymity, said the ordeal has taken a heavy toll on everyone close to the family, even as Patrick tries to push forward.

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Patrick Clancy, 38, was seen this week touring apartments in a quieter part of Manhattan

He rode a Citi Bike through the city and wandered around incognito, wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses in an apparent bid to avoid being recognized

He rode a Citi Bike through the city and wandered around incognito, wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses in an apparent bid to avoid being recognized

Patrick viewed properties with Alex Grapstein, a realtor from Corcoran, which specializes in luxury condos, townhouses and high-end rentals

Patrick viewed properties with Alex Grapstein, a realtor from Corcoran, which specializes in luxury condos, townhouses and high-end rentals

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‘I think he is doing okay under the circumstances,’ the relative said. ‘It’s very stressful for the whole family.’

Grapstein, Patrick’s realtor, told the Daily Mail that Patrick is searching for a new place once the lease expires on the $5,500-a-month, 750sq ft apartment he currently shares with Rachel.

The agent declined to comment further, calling the subject ‘too sensitive’ given the ongoing public attention.

In Plymouth, Massachusetts, 36-year-old Lindsay Clancy stands accused of murdering her and Patrick’s three children, five-year-old Cora, three-year-old Dawson and eight-month-old Callan, in their Duxbury home back in January 2023.

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Lindsay has admitted to strangling all three kids using fitness bands but has claimed she is not guilty of murder because she was in the grip of severe postpartum psychosis when the killings occurred, and therefore bears no criminal responsibility.

Prosecutors reject that account entirely, arguing instead that the killings were calculated and deliberate, and that Lindsay purposely sent Patrick out on errands that night to clear the house before she acted.

Patrick has testified in Lindsay’s defense and filed a lawsuit against her healthcare providers. 

In the aftermath of the attack, Lindsay slit her own wrists and throat and leapt from a second-floor window at their home, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down.

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She has remained in custody or under court-ordered psychiatric care ever since.

Patrick moved out of the Boston suburbs and into Manhattan in May 2023, four months after his children were killed and beginning what would become a very public rebuilding of his personal life.

Patrick moved to NYC four months after the deaths of his children and began rebuilding his life

Patrick moved to NYC four months after the deaths of his children and began rebuilding his life

Cruel and baseless conspiracy theories have spread rapidly across social media claiming Patrick was involved in the deaths of his and Lindsay’s three young children

Cruel and baseless conspiracy theories have spread rapidly across social media claiming Patrick was involved in the deaths of his and Lindsay’s three young children

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He has testified in his ex-wife's defense but has refused to visit her since the killings

He has testified in his ex-wife’s defense but has refused to visit her since the killings 

Photos of him with Rachel Danis, 37, first surfaced online the following February, and the family’s home in Duxbury sold in May 2024.

Rachel, a fertility doctor, later moved into Patrick’s Midtown Manhattan apartment, and by late last year she was photographed wearing what appeared to be an engagement ring.

The pair married in April in a small ceremony at the famous Ladies Pavilion overlooking the lake in Central Park, followed by a celebration at nearby Sarabeth’s restaurant.

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Yet the newlyweds have found no real refuge from the fallout of Lindsay’s trial, even far away in New York City.

A groundswell of online sympathy for Lindsay has fueled accusations from strangers that Patrick somehow failed his ex-wife.

Some of the uglier viral posts have gone further, suggesting without any evidence that Patrick and Rachel played roles in the children’s deaths.

The strain appeared to boil over earlier this month, when a neighbor secretly photographed the couple on a shared terrace at their luxury midtown building.

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A witness described the pair spending roughly half an hour alternating between checking their phones and talking quietly to one another, visibly tense and dressed casually for the summer evening heat.

Patrick, who works as a salesman for Microsoft, was seen pacing in tight circles while on a call.

Both Patrick and Rachel have received death threats and had personal details posted publicly as part of an online harassment campaign.

Friends say Patrick and his family have struggled with the negative attention

Friends say Patrick and his family have struggled with the negative attention 

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Patrick with his ex-wife Lindsay and two oldest children Cora, five, and Dawson, three

Patrick with his ex-wife Lindsay and two oldest children Cora, five, and Dawson, three

Patrick’s relative described the online pile-on as sheer ‘internet lunacy’ that has caused real damage to the couple’s daily lives.

A separate friend of the Clancy family told the Daily Mail that people online have been needlessly cruel and should focus on their own lives instead of tearing others down.

‘People are crazy, and people are stupid, and people are mean-spirited, and people should just worry about themselves,’ said the friend.

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‘We need to put more good in the world. Not try to get people. It’s disgusting.’

Patrick, who took the stand during Lindsay’s trial, has never faced any accusations of wrongdoing in connection with the deaths.

He testified in her defense, describing her as a loving mother before the tragedy, and has since filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Lindsay’s healthcare providers, alleging negligence contributed to his children’s deaths.

Those providers deny any wrongdoing, and the lawsuit remains ongoing.

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Patrick’s attorney has pushed back hard against online commentators, calling their claims false and defamatory in a public statement.

Patrick found new love in Dr Rachel Danis, whom he married earlier this year.

Patrick found new love in Dr Rachel Danis, whom he married earlier this year 

Couple Patrick Clancy and Rachel Danis have shared passions for charitable causes.

Couple Patrick Clancy and Rachel Danis have shared passions for charitable causes

Patrick grew emotional as he took the stand to testify in his ex-wife's trial last month

Patrick grew emotional as he took the stand to testify in his ex-wife’s trial last month

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Lindsay Clancy has been receiving psychiatric treatment since the tragedy in January 2023

Lindsay Clancy has been receiving psychiatric treatment since the tragedy in January 2023

‘The facts are indisputable: Patrick Clancy has suffered an unspeakable and unimaginable loss,’ his attorney said.

‘The individuals making those statements – from minor influencers to major celebrities – should be on notice that their despicable actions and false, defamatory statements have caused real life consequences to the health and safety of Patrick and his family.’

Whether Patrick and Rachel can finally step out of the spotlight once the trial concludes at Plymouth Superior Court remains to be seen.

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After nearly a month of often harrowing testimony, jurors this week heard from the final witnesses in a case that has centered on Lindsay’s mental state on the night she killed her children.

Lindsay faces three counts of first-degree murder, a charge that carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole under Massachusetts law.

Should jurors find her not guilty by reason of lacking criminal responsibility, state law would typically require her to undergo further mental evaluation and likely commitment to a state hospital for treatment.

She has already been held at Tewksbury Hospital for court-ordered psychiatric care since May 2023. If jurors cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the judge overseeing the case could still declare a mistrial.

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Carabao Cup results: West Ham back to winning ways as Brentford hit Birmingham for six

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Carabao Cup results: West Ham back to winning ways as Brentford hit Birmingham for six

West Ham finally secured their first win of the season as they came from behind to beat Southampton 4-1 and progress to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, while Brentford trounced Birmingham City 6-1.

But there finally appears to have been a break in the east London clouds as a youthful West Ham produced an impressive turnaround to get the better of the Saints.

For a time, it seemed Southampton were set to extend West Ham’s miserable month. They started the brighter and Leo Scienza took advantage of some slack defending to put the hosts in front after ten minutes.

It was not clear where West Ham’s response might originate, and it was the 19-year-old Joshua Ajala who grabbed the match by the horns.

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The youngster, making just his third first-team appearance and his first start, headed home shortly before the break to equalise, before cutting out a poor clearance and firing home to put his side ahead early in the second half. The two goals were the first of his senior career.

Nuno introduced the cavalry on the hour mark, throwing Jarrod Bowen, Taty Castellanos and Arne Engels, the most expensive player in Championship history into the mix, and they were effective in killing off the match. Taty doubled the Irons’ advantage before club captain Bowen buried a fine fourth to set the home support filing to the exits.

Elsewhere, Keith Andrews’ Brentford continued their fine start to the campaign by hitting a sorry Birmingham City for six, Demarai Gray’s first-half equaliser a distant memory by the time the full-time whistle blew.

Nathan Collins’ brace helped Brentford into the next round

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Igor Thiago was named to the PFA team of the year mid-match and celebrated, if unknowingly, by scoring his first goal of the campaign, while Nathan Collins bagged a brace.

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Three Secret Service officials have been placed on administrative leave pending investigation

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Three Secret Service officials have been placed on administrative leave pending investigation

Three U.S. Secret Service officials were placed on administrative leave Tuesday, pending the outcome of an investigation by the agency’s professional standards office.

The three were operating in non-law-enforcement capacities and were being investigated for potential misconduct, the agency’s public information office reported. However, the cause for the action remained unclear as the Office of Professional Responsibility was beginning its review.

The Secret Service has been under scrutiny as President Donald Trump has been the subject of at least three assassination plots in the past two years. In April, police said an armed man breached security at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, which Trump was attending.

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Elton John, Oprah Winfrey and Paul McCartney offer Dolly Parton tributes

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A man in a dark suit interviewing a woman in a colourful outfit.

Country singer Blake Shelton, who worked with Parton on the American television series The Voice wrote: “I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today.”

“I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is,” he added. “It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family.”

On social media, American singer and actress Dionne Warwick said her “heart is heavy”.

“I will certainly miss her laughter, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend,” she wrote.

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Former wife of Elvis Presley, Priscilla Presley, recalled: “After Elvis and I left the courthouse following our divorce, he sang [I Will Always Love You] to me as we walked down the steps together.”

“Her music touched all of us, but it was Dolly’s warmth, humour and enormous heart that made her truly one of a kind,” Presley added.

Parton, who was known for her roles in the movies 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, as well as the show Hannah Montana, was remembered fondly by many actors.

Seth MacFarlane said that when working with Parton, who guest-starred on his show The Orville, “her kindness, generosity, and authenticity were evident from moment one”.

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“I’m devastated. Truly”, actress Keke Palmer said alongside a photo of her and Parton. The pair starred in the 2012 musical Joyful Noise.

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis said Parton was a hero who “is a great example for us all”.

Fashion designer Donatella Versace said: “The world has lost one of the kindest and most generous of souls, the greatest of story tellers and a true legend of music.”

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Dolly Parton’s cause of death confirmed by family following ‘brief’ health battle

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Manchester Evening News

Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, prompting a wave of tributes

Dolly Parton passed away following a “brief battle with cancer”, her representatives have confirmed.

In a statement issued to PEOPLE magazine on Tuesday (August 25), the country legend’s team confirmed that the star died aged 80 after a cancer diagnosis. The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed.

Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” the statement read.

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“Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand. Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.”

The statement concluded: “After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”

Parton died on Tuesday, with her nephew Bryan Seaver breaking the devastating news to the world via a heartfelt social media post the same day.

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According to PEOPLE, Parton was admitted to a Nashville-area hospital on Friday (August 21), where she passed away four days later.

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McDonald’s Thornaby share refurb update ahead of reopening

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McDonald's Thornaby share refurb update ahead of reopening

The fast-food chain prepares to reopen its doors in just over a week.

The drive-thru restaurant on Allensway in Thornaby has been closed since the start of August while work takes place on a full renovation of the site.

Now, with the reopening date fast approaching, McDonald’s has shared a video showing the transformation underway inside the Teesside restaurant and reminded customers that they won’t have to wait too much longer.

The final changes are being made at the Allensway site (Image: Teesside McDonald’s)

New ovens are coming to a McDonald’s in Teesside (Image: Teesside McDonald’s)

In a social media post, the company said: “Just a friendly reminder, Thornaby!

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“Your local McDonald’s is having a well-earned glow up and will reopen, better than ever, at 11am on 2nd September.”

While McDonald’s has not revealed every detail of the project, footage shared online shows construction work taking place throughout the restaurant as staff prepare to return.



Stockton Council approved plans for the site, including a new drive-thru order display canopy, alterations to the shop front, doors and glazing, as well as new digital display boards and internal signage.

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While the final renovations are being completed, McDonald’s says customers can continue to enjoy their favourite menu items at its nearby Teesside Park and Yarm Road sites.

The restaurant, which opened in 2014, is expected to welcome customers back from 11am on Wednesday, September 2, after around a month of refurbishment work.

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The Witcher 3 Remastered looks amazing and it’s free if you own the original

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The Witcher 3 Remastered looks amazing and it’s free if you own the original
The Witcher 3 Remastered – a welcome surprise (CD Projekt)

Gamescom 2026’s Opening Night Live event has revealed not only a current gen remaster for The Witcher 3 but CD Projekt are giving away its expansions for nothing.

It’s 11 years since the release of The Witcher 3 and while it’s one of the best-selling video games of all-time you would assume that its moment had passed, especially as developer CD Projekt has already announced a sequel. It’s not clear when that will be out though, so to get people excited about the series again CD Projekt has done more than just announce new DLC.

Releasing a major expansion for such an old game is unprecedented, although in hindsight it’s a great idea for creating a story bridge between the two titles. However, relatively little was shown of the DLC, called Songs Of The Past, at Gamescom on Tuesday evening, with the focus instead being on the previously unannounced The Witcher 3 Remastered.

It appears to be a major upgrade for the original game, not just in terms of visuals, but with promised changes to the combat, traversal system, horse-riding, skill tree, and much more.

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This is excellent news because even at the time of the original release, the game was criticised for its weak combat. Although it’s surprising there’s no mention at all about improving the awkward inventory system, which was the other major complaint.

There may be more to the final release though, as CD Projekt developer Miles Toast appeared on stage to talk about the remaster and he described a revamped ability system, which isn’t specifically mentioned in the trailer.

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The best news is that all of this is completely free, if you already own the original game on GOG, Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X/S. You can even claim it for free on Nintendo Switch 2, if you already own the Switch 1 version. It’ll also be available on Battle.net for the first time.

As if the pot was not sweet enough, on top of that you get the existing expansions Hearts Of Stone and Blood And Wine for free too, either because you already had the base game or when you buy the remastered version separately.

What are the new features in The Witcher 3 Remastered?

A lot has changed for the remaster, although CD Projekt hasn’t gone into detail about any of them. The first 10 changes listed below are the ones most clearly highlighted during the trailer, whereas the others appear in small print for a split second, as they scroll up the screen.

  1. Upgraded visuals
  2. Enhanced combat
  3. Improved traversal and movement
  4. New witcher signs FX
  5. Revamped mount handling
  6. Enhanced monster behaviours
  7. Skill tree revamp
  8. Transmogrification
  9. Expanded photo mode
  10. New finishers
The Witcher 3 Remastered screenshot of Geralt fighting
The graphics do look a lot better (YouTube)
  • Cross platform mod support
  • Immersive meditation
  • Refined animations
  • New quest tracking
  • UI improvements
  • Looting rework
  • Refreshed motion blur
  • New accessibility features
  • Updated textures
  • Foliage shading rework
  • Tutorial modernisation
  • HDR improvements
  • GTAO [ground-truth ambient occlusion]
  • Improved menu navigation
  • Ray tracing improvements
  • Global lighting rework
  • New shading model
  • Subsurface scattering
  • New tone mapper
  • PlayStation 5 Pro support
  • Xbox Play Anywhere support
  • Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive features
  • Nvidia DLSS 4.5
  • AMD FSR 4
  • Intel XESS 2.0
  • Path tracing on PC
  • Ray reconstruction on PC
  • Ray-traced hair
  • Native DX12
  • Rendering parallelisation

What is The Witcher 3 Remastered release date?

You really can’t ask for more than that, especially as the remaster is out very soon, on September 29. Considering how often the DLC was leaked it’s remarkable that CD Projekt has kept it secret, especially as it’s been made by an external developer called Yigsoft.

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Songs Of The Past is being developed by Fool’s Theory, which is made up of a lot of The Witcher veterans. The same studio is also supposed to be doing The Witcher 1 remake, although nothing has been said or seen of that in a long time.

The original The Witcher game (which, to be honest, wasn’t very good) did get mentioned though, as the new chain weapon you can see in the Songs Of The Past trailer is a nod to that game’s intro. It wasn’t mentioned, but it also seems to be the same weapon Ciri uses in The Witcher 4 teaser trailer, so you can probably see where CD Projekt is going with that.

Not a lot was shown of the new expansion, but it will take advantage of all the improvements from the remastered version. The idea that it segues into The Witcher 4 is still only a theory though, as CD Projekt has never actually said that’s what it’s about.

Geralt seems to be fighting tree monsters though, that look kind of like an evil Groot, and the expansion takes place on the continent of Letten, where the character of Dandelion is from.

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The Witcher 3 Remastered screenshot of Geralt
Geralt is back for one more expansion (YouTube)

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How much sleep do I need? Why you can forget the eight-hour rule

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How much sleep do I need? Why you can forget the eight-hour rule

For decades, the answer to “how much sleep does an adult need?” has been simple: eight hours. The idea dates back to the mid-19th century when the notion of eight hours of work, eight for recreation and eight for sleep first took hold.

But growing evidence suggests that eight hours may not be the ideal amount of sleep for everyone, as a new narrative review in Brain Medicine reminds us.

To find out how much people naturally sleep, researchers have studied hunter-gatherer communities whose lifestyles are closer to those of our ancestors and who have little or no access to artificial light. In one early study, researchers found that people in Tanzania, Namibia and Bolivia slept for between 5.7 and 7.1 hours a night. These short sleep durations can’t be attributed to traffic noise, social media use or too much artificial light at night.

The short nights also seemed to be enough: people did not make up for them with long daytime naps. Without an alarm clock, they tended to wake close to dawn, regardless of the day of the week.

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Exactly how long people are found to sleep in pre-industrialised societies varies depending on how sleep is measured, where people live, the season and other environmental factors. But one recent analysis estimated the average to be 6.4 hours.

So, is eight hours too much? These studies make an important assumption that the amount people naturally sleep is the amount they need. That assumes that hunter-gatherers are free from stress, busy schedules and other pressures on sleep. But is that really the case?

We also don’t know whether people in these societies experience the same health problems linked to too little sleep that are seen in modern societies. So their shorter sleep may not be as strong an argument against eight hours as it first appears.

But other evidence has emerged from large studies looking at the relationship between sleep and health in industrialised societies.

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Some hunter-gatherer tribes sleep less than eight hours a night.
Tanya Keisha/Shutterstock.com

If we define optimal sleep as the amount linked to the best health, many large studies suggest the sweet spot may be less than eight hours. One recent study used brain and body scans and molecular measures to look at how sleep relates to the ageing of different organs. It estimated the optimal amount to be between 6.4 and 7.8 hours, depending on the person’s sex and the organ being studied.

Many studies find that both too little and too much sleep are linked to poorer health, including heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline and obesity. But scientists are still debating whether too much sleep causes poor health or is instead an early sign of it. Either way, these findings challenge the idea that everyone needs exactly eight hours and suggest that consistently sleeping for much longer may be worth paying attention to.

However, all these estimates of optimal sleep duration are based on averages, and the average person does not exist. When given enough opportunity to sleep, studies find that young adults sleep longer than healthy older adults. Even people of the same age can need very different amounts of sleep.

Current sleep duration recommendations, from the National Sleep Foundation in the US, reflect these individual differences. It says that adults aged 26 to 64 should get between seven and nine hours of sleep per day, but that sleeping between six and ten hours may be appropriate for some adults. That is a long way from the one-size-fits-all eight-hour rule.

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When you sleep matters

But there is more to sleep than the hours we get. An important feature of modern sleep patterns is not that they are shorter than they once were, but that they are delayed relative to the natural light-dark cycle. Most of us do not wake naturally before dawn. Many of us have short sleep during the working week and longer catch-up sleep on work-free days.

Artificial light is recognised as the main driver of this shift. It changes our sleep habits and delays our body clock, which controls the timing of sleep and wakefulness.

Irregular sleep is also common, particularly among shift workers and university students. Irregular sleep is linked to poorer health. But if you lose sleep during the week, catching up on some of it at the weekend appears to be better than not catching up at all – even though it makes your sleep pattern less regular. So regularity matters, but so does the total amount of sleep you get over a week or longer.

The eight-hour rule is clearly too simple. People need different amounts of sleep, and when we sleep matters too. But one simple message remains: get enough sleep when you can, wherever you can, and don’t worry too much about the occasional bad night.

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