Hayden Jones-Powell got into difficulty in the water on Thursday when he was at the lake with friends

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A family is mourning their ‘gorgeous’ and ‘cheeky’ boy after he was tragically pulled dead from a lake. Hayden Jones-Powell went missing yesterday (June 25) after entering Meynell Lake, in Fosse Way, Syston.

Police were called just after 1.30pm, with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and East Midlands Ambulance Service also attending. Specialist dive teams launched a search of the lake where they found Hayden, according to LeicestershireLive.

The 13-year-old has been remembered by his family as a cheeky, gorgeous boy who loved animals. Hayden, a keen West Bromwich Albion supporter with a wide circle of friends, had gone to cool off in the water with friends after school when he got into difficulty.

Speaking to LeicestershireLive on behalf of the family, his aunt, Charlotte Powell, paid tribute to him.

“He was just a really lovely little cheeky boy,” she said, adding that he had lots of friends and “did really, really well at school.”

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She said Hayden leaves behind two older brothers and a sister.

Describing the day Hayden died, Charlotte, who has set up a fundraising page for his funeral, said: “Hayden was like any other teenage boy who just went to the lake to paddle with his friends.

“He wanted to cool off from the heat and enjoy the cool water, getting some respite from the heatwave after school.”

The family said they had been left devastated by the news.

“It’s horrific, absolutely horrific,” Charlotte said. “When my husband rang me yesterday to say, are you sitting down? Hayden’s gone missing.

“It’s the thing that happens to other people, doesn’t it? It doesn’t happen to your family.”

Charlotte has thanked the community for their support since Hayden’s death.

“The family are so, so grateful for all the support, really, really grateful,” she said.

“We know that in times like this, there’s so little that people can do, but if anybody can just give a fiver to our fund, just to give us the best send-off for Hayden that we can possibly do.”

Police said the person recovered from the lake was the same teenager known to have entered the water, adding that his family are being supported by specialist officers. Officers said there is no suggestion of any suspicious circumstances, and that a file will be prepared for the coroner.

Friends of Hayden are organising two balloon releases in his memory. The first is due to take place at Central Park in Syston at around 12.30pm on Saturday, with a second planned for the following Saturday in Mountsorrel.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family give Hayden “a beautiful send off,” with a target of £6,000. You can donate here.

During their first two games, Panama have taken a dynamic approach depending on the phase of play the game is in.

From opposition goal-kicks, Panama have stepped up to press aggressively in a 4-4-2 shape.

If the opponents have quality on the ball and find themselves in possession higher up the pitch, Panama’s high press falls into a mid-block, and they move from a 4-4-2 into a 5-3-2. Their focus is on making it hard for teams to play through them.

As Croatia, in particular, grew into the game, Panama took an even more defensive approach.

Their 5-3-2 became a 5-4-1, a shape they adopted with a deeper defensive line for large parts of the game.

So what does this mean for England?

Sarah Steele said Cambridgeshire’s police force did not contact her until months after the incident

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Downing Street has said it is “very concerning” that an American fighter pilot was able to avoid a trial under English law for strangling a woman in Cambridge. Captain Jacob Wulfson was tried at a court martial on a US airbase despite his alleged crime taking place while he was off-duty.

The case was not investigated by the local police and was instead handed to the US military, as first reported by the Guardian. Mr Wulfson’s victim Sarah Steele said she was treated “incredibly aggressively” by the pilot’s defence team and felt like she was the one on trial.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman questioned why the case never reached the CPS (Crown Prosecution Service). He said: “This is clearly a deeply distressing case, our thoughts are with the victim. She’s shown incredible bravery not only in her initial report to police, but also in coming forward to speak to the media to help get justice for others.”

He said the Government was “going to look really carefully at what’s happened here, and we must stress that we’re still establishing the facts”. He added: “But of course this is very concerning that a case like this never reached the CPS, but was investigated by US airbase police and heard in front of an all-male panel of air force officers.”

Cambridgeshire Constabulary said that, in December 2023, information shared by the US air force (USAF) “indicated that the victim did not wish to be contacted” by them.

“Following a welfare visit in February 2024, the victim directly confirmed to Cambridgeshire Constabulary officers that she wished the matter to remain under the investigation of the USAF,” a spokesperson added.

But Ms Steele told the Guardian that Cambridgeshire Constabulary did not get in touch to discuss whether she wanted the case to be handed over. When they spoke to her months later, she feared the investigation would have to start again or the pilot might flee the country if the case if local police took over, she said.

Justice minister Jake Richards earlier described the case as “really serious” and said there are “issues” around the military courts system. He told BBC Radio 4’s Today: “It’s a really serious case. It’s very good that it’s being raised by yourselves and others. I’m going to take it away back to the Ministry of Justice and make sure that we are looking into the details of this later.”

He added: “There are issues around military courts, whether that is in America or indeed our own, and how that interplays with our criminal courts and our civil courts. That’s always an area that we look at.” He said there should be a “really thorough and objective look at this case”.

Ms Steele, an academic, met Cpt Wulfson on a dating app and eventually arranged to meet at his flat while he was working at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk. She left his flat the next morning feeling that something was wrong, later accusing him of non-consensual sex, drugging, and strangling her, the Guardian reported.

He was charged with sexual assault and aggravated sexual contact, and was ultimately found guilty of strangulation, but acquitted of the other charges. The judge in the court martial was a US air force colonel and the jury was a panel of eight air force officers.

Some British terms had to be explained to the panel, and Cpt Wulfson’s “enemies killed in action count” as an F-35 pilot was used as mitigation for his sentence, the newspaper said.

Speaking about the trial, Ms Steele said: “It was a very difficult system to be in, and at times I was treated incredibly aggressively, and I felt like I was on trial, and it became a character assassination. People are attacking you with assertions that are trying to undermine, say that you’re lying, say that you’re a problem, say that you’re all manner of evil things and that you’re creating this, and you’ve got to wade through that staring in the face of the accused.”

Ms Steele’s case would likely have been tried at a crown court had it been handled by the CPS. The court martial handed Cpt Wulfson a sentence of six months at a correctional facility at RAF Lakenheath.

Calling for clearer guidance on who should prosecute such cases, she said: “I think it’s really important that for the interests of justice and for the rights of victims, that we have clear framework discussion around this.”

There are around 12 active US air force bases across the UK. The US military justice system has a distinct legal framework and is separate from British civilian courts.

Shadow justice secretary Nick Timothy called on David Lammy to “urgently review” the case. In a letter to the Justice Secretary, he said: “Under the Nato Status of Forces of Agreement 1951, US military authorities only have primary jurisdiction to prosecute in cases where an offence was committed on duty, towards another armed forces member, or towards a dependent.

“This case should have been fully investigated by the English police and prosecuted in our courts, with the defendant tried by a jury and the sentence determined by a judge. Therefore, I ask you urgently to review what happened in this case, confirm who decided to relinquish UK jurisdiction, and ensure that justice is served.”

Councillors have agreed to begin the process of revising the Local Plan for Stockton, which has guided development since 2019.

Councillor Richard Eglington, cabinet member for housing and transport at Stockton Borough Council, said: “The Local Plan is a really important document and it cannot be understated what a huge piece of work this will be.

“As things progress, we will continue to provide updates and how residents will be able to have their say once a consultation is launched.

“You can keep up to date with the latest developments by visiting the dedicated Local Plan web page.”

A scoping consultation will give residents, businesses, and organisations the chance to share their views and feedback.

It will also guide planning decisions and shape the long-term vision for the area.

Details on how to take part will be shared once the consultation period begins.

Anyone interested in receiving updates can register on the council’s website at www.stockton.gov.uk/local-plan.

Daniel Radcliffe’s gripping thriller Escape from Pretoria is now available to stream for free and is a must-watch for fans of edge-of-your-seat drama

Daniel Radcliffe’s riveting thriller Escape from Pretoria can now be watched at no cost.

The 2020 release, based on actual events, features the Harry Potter star as Tim Jenkin, a South African anti-apartheid campaigner jailed for his political involvement. Drawing from Jenkin’s autobiography Inside Out: Escape from Pretoria Prison, the narrative chronicles his audacious scheme to flee Pretoria Prison with two fellow prisoners after receiving a 12-year sentence.

The nail-biting thriller is helmed by Francis Annan, who co-penned the script with L. H. Adams. Following its debut, the production has garnered acclaim for its tension-filled narrative and Radcliffe’s captivating portrayal.

In their assessment, The Sun branded it “unbearably tense”, drawing parallels with Ben Affleck’s Oscar-winning thriller Argo while commending its polished direction, reports the Mirror.

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MovieWeb, meanwhile, emphasised its brisk pacing and nerve-wracking sequences, noting the film contains numerous “hold your breath” moments while lauding Radcliffe for consistently pursuing bold and demanding projects.

Eye for Film similarly commended the production, describing it as a gripping thriller that delivers beyond mere entertainment. Their critique observed that it illuminates the enduring consequences of apartheid while recounting a remarkable true account.

Daniel Radcliffe heads a formidable ensemble cast in Escape from Pretoria. Daniel Webber portrays Stephen Lee, while Ian Hart takes the role of anti-apartheid campaigner Denis Goldberg.

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Mark Leonard Winter appears as Leonard Fontaine, Nathan Page plays Mongo, and Grant Piro takes on the role of Captain Schnepel.

Having recently aired on Film4, Escape from Pretoria is now freely available to stream on Channel 4 with adverts, according to Digital Spy.

For those who prefer uninterrupted viewing, a Channel 4+ subscription provides ad-free streaming, complete with a seven-day free trial. The film is additionally accessible via Netflix.

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Fans wishing to explore more of Radcliffe’s back catalogue will find plenty to enjoy on Prime Video. Highlights include Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, in which the actor transforms into legendary parody musician “Weird Al” Yankovic.

For a considerably darker offering, the 2016 thriller Imperium sees Radcliffe portray an FBI agent who goes undercover to infiltrate a violent white supremacist organisation.

Also available to stream is the action-comedy Guns Akimbo, in which Radcliffe plays an ordinary computer programmer thrust into a brutal underground contest where he must fight to survive.

Escape from Pretoria is available to stream on Channel4.com

The rabbit was adopted from Woodgreen more than a decade ago

A Cambridgeshire rabbit rescued more than 10 years ago has been named as one of the world’s oldest living rabbits. Archie Bunn was adopted from Woodgreen in Godmanchester and has since lived with owner Andrea Lees from St Neots.

On May 28, Archie turned 15 – just weeks after lionhead rabbit Herbie was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living rabbit at 15 years and 246 days.

Archie Bun, also known as Mr Ears, first met Andrea when she was looking for a furry companion in 2013. “We knew as soon as we saw him,” said Andrea.

She added: “All the other rabbits were being a little shy, but not Archie Bun. He was sitting up tall and proud on a box in his enclosure as if he was waiting for us. We laughed and started singing the lyrics from Lionel Richie’s Hello – ‘Is it me you’re looking for?’ – it turns out, it was.”

Archie joined Andrea’s family just a few weeks after his second birthday. In the years since, Archie has settled in with Andrea’s other rabbit Bobby. Andrea added: “As Bobby grew older and her back legs weakened, Archie Bun was forever by her side. He looked after her and protected her. It was beautiful to see.”

Today, Archie Bun continues to enjoy a full and happy life in St Neots. Samantha Ryan, Woodgreen’s behaviour and training specialist for small pets wished Archie Bun a happy birthday.

Samantha said: “Archie Bun’s 15th birthday not only places him alongside the world’s oldest living rabbit, but also shows that rabbits are a long-term commitment; a message we’re particularly eager to share ahead of this year’s Rabbit Awareness Week (June 22 to 26).

“While many people are surprised to learn that rabbits can live for 10 years or more, Archie Bun’s story is a touching reminder of the lifelong bond that can develop between rabbits and the people who love them, and shows just what can be achieved when rabbits receive the care they need to live full lives. Happy birthday Archie Bun.”

Melissa Thompson was placed into foster care at 14 months old and was inspired by the care and compassion she was shown

A woman who was placed into foster care at just 14 months old is following in the footsteps of her late adopted father as she graduates as a social worker.

Melissa Thompson is graduating today with a Bachelor of Social Work from Queen’s University Belfast, reaching a goal she has held since early childhood.

Placed into foster care at just 14 months old and adopted at the age of eight, Melissa’s early experiences shaped both her outlook and her ambition.

She said: “The care and compassion I was shown through my own experiences with social workers, inspired me from I was around four years old age. I was also influenced greatly by my adopted father, who was a social worker himself.”

Melissa speaks warmly of her father, Thomas Thompson, describing him as the person who guided and inspired her most. Prior to losing him in 2017 when Melissa was just 18, she made him the promise that she would graduate with a degree in social work.

Whilst he may have jokingly described her decision as “crazy”, following in her dad’s footsteps is something Melissa approaches with both pride and determination.

Melissa added: “My mum and dad were always supportive of my decisions and only wanted what was best for me. My dad was the most selfless, caring and funny man anyone ever met. His ultimate dad-quote was ‘I may not always be right, but I’m never wrong!’

“He was an incredible social worker and was loved and valued by every person that came into contact with him. If I can be even a fraction of the social worker he was, I will have succeeded. He was my best friend and my hero, and I’ll miss him for the rest of my life.”

Melissa’s route to graduation has not been without challenges. Health issues and surgery meant she had to pause her studies, and when she was preparing to return in 2022, she discovered she was expecting her son Harvey, who is now three.

“I was terrified to leave Harvey and at the prospect of studying full time with a child, but he was also the thing that drove me. I wanted to give my son a better life and fulfil the promise I made to my dad.”

Resuming her degree when Harvey was just seven months old, Melissa credits the support of those around her with helping her to persevere.

She said: “I most definitely would not be here without the unwavering support of my partner, my family, my tutors and the Care Experienced Support Team at Queen’s. Throughout my studies, my mum was a the most amazing support with Harvey, and my fiancé, Dawid was working constantly to provide for us.”

Maintaining connections with those who supported her is a value that permeates throughout Melissa’s journey. She describes maintaining contact with the social workers who supported her in her early years in care, including one who was newly qualified at the time and went on to become Head of Service for the Trust before recently retiring.

“She is one of the good ones,” notes Melissa. “A woman who dedicated so much of her time, career and life, and saved so many children from further harm and trauma.”

Despite the challenges she has faced, Melissa is immensely proud of her perseverance, allowing her to achieve something “truly meaningful,” going on to make that difference in the lives of others.

Looking back, she has a clear message for her younger self: “Do not worry about a thing. You are so much stronger than you give yourself credit for and every little trauma and adverse experience you have gone through will be worth it in the end.

“Be patient with yourself. You’re living for the first time and you will undoubtedly make mistakes, but it’s all part of life. Keep going, no matter how hard it gets. You’ve got this.”

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

Age is just a number – and that’s especially true of the super-sprightly Bill Kober.

The 98-year-old, who lives in Woodbridge, Suffolk, does at least 40 press-ups every day without fail – 20 in the morning and another 20 in the evening.

Despite his age, the pensioner is also partial to a bit of Pilates, and recently mastered the “crow” pose.

“Only in my later years have I realised that I’ve got this ability, and so I do it because I’m able to and, as they say, use it or lose it, and I don’t want to lose it,” he said.

“I want to be as fit as I can be.”

Among other benefits, press-ups can improve your upper body strength and core stability and strength. Over time, they can also help improve your ability to do everyday tasks.

But what’s the key to the perfect push-up, according to Bill?

“A good straight back which gives you a nice tight buttock,” he said.

“If I stuck £20 note in between your buttocks, you’ve got to grip over it so that no-one can take it.”

According to the NHS, adults aged 65 and over should be physically active every day and do activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility at least two days a week.

They should also do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, such as swimming, if they are already active.

Doing regular exercise can reduce the risk of major illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer, and lower the risk of early death by up to 30%.

“It turns out that public declarations of righteousness tell us remarkably little about private character and are not a substitute for integrity.”

Christianity belongs in politics. That sentence may surprise some readers, but I believe it. Just as socialism, liberalism, conservatism and every other worldview have a legitimate place in a democracy, so too does Christianity.

Politicians do not stop being people of faith when they enter public life, nor should they. The problem begins when faith stops being a source of values and starts becoming a claim to moral superiority.

Jeffrey Donaldson’s convictions for multiple historical sexual offences have prompted understandable shock within unionism and beyond. The BBC’s Spotlight documentary, which aired allegations about aspects of his private life has added another layer to an already extraordinary political collapse.

OPINION

Yet one of the broader political questions raised by the affair has remarkably little to do with Donaldson himself and more to do with whether parts of Northern Ireland’s political culture confused Christianity with self-righteousness.

For decades, politicians, particularly within the DUP, have approached issues such as marriage equality, abortion, and LGBT rights as moral battles. Political language often moved beyond the language of governance and into the language of judgement, and society was presented as divided between those defending Christian values and those driving moral decline.

There is nothing unusual about politicians allowing faith to shape their convictions. The difficulty arises when political identity becomes dependent on asserting who is righteous and who is not. Christianity, at least in its scriptural foundations, does not sit comfortably with that posture.

Jesus belongs in politics in the sense that his teachings about justice, mercy, and human dignity inevitably shape how believers view public life. But the Jesus of the Gospels did not seek out sinners in order to shame them. He sought them out to show them compassion. He repeatedly warned against those who advertised their own righteousness while remaining blind to their own failings.

He spent time with tax collectors, spoke with those on the margins, and consistently clashed with the religious authorities of his day. His most pointed criticism was often directed not at those living imperfect lives, but at those who believed themselves to be morally secure.

For years, some of our politicians spoke as though morality could be legislated and virtue measured by whom you condemned. It turns out that public declarations of righteousness tell us remarkably little about private character and are not a substitute for integrity.

However, this is not the first time that we have witnessed such hypocrisy. Iris Robinson famously described homosexuality as an “abomination” while speaking with apparent certainty about moral order in society. Her subsequent affair with a 19-year-old boy undermined the authority from which she had spoken.

The point is not that politicians should be expected to be morally perfect. They will fail, as all people do.

Once a politician’s legitimacy rests on being seen as more righteous than others, their public role is subsequently judged on performance of virtue rather than on policy or competence, creating a fragile political identity which can collapse dramatically when private life diverges from public image.

It also distorts the political conversation itself. Instead of debating how to govern a diverse society, politics becomes a contest over moral boundaries, who belongs, who does not, and whose way of life is acceptable.

In such an environment, contradiction is almost inevitable. Human beings are imperfect, and political systems that rely on displays of purity tend to produce instability when those imperfections inevitably surface.

This is not a uniquely Northern Irish phenomenon. Across different political traditions and countries, movements that centre on moral certainty often struggle most with moral complexity. The more politics becomes about declaring what is right and wrong in absolute terms, the less room there is for the messy realities of human behaviour.

If anything, it runs counter to the core of the Christian message. The Gospels repeatedly emphasise humility, repentance and the universality of human imperfection, warning against those who are convinced of their own righteousness. That is why the danger in politics is the transformation of Christianity into a tool of self-justification.

Donaldson’s downfall will rightly be remembered for the severity of his criminal conduct. Nothing about the wider political implications should obscure that. Nor should it be used as a lens through which to judge every politician of faith.

But it invites a more uncomfortable reflection on a political culture that, for a time, placed heavy emphasis on moral certainty.

As such, voters should not distrust Christians but be wary of anyone who asks to be judged by their sermons rather than their actions.

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