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Prices to expedite Panama Canal crossing skyrocket after Strait of Hormuz closure

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Prices to expedite Panama Canal crossing skyrocket after Strait of Hormuz closure

PANAMA CITY (AP) — Businesses have doled out up as much as $4 million to move boats through the Panama Canal with the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, according to the Panama Canal Authority, in a move that has created a seismic shift in global trade flows.

While passage through the waterway usually comes at a flat rate via reservations, companies without reservations can cross by paying an additional fee in an auction for slots, which are awarded to the highest bidder rather than waiting for days off the coast of Panama City.

That price has ballooned in recent weeks as Iran and the United States have bottlenecked the key shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz, and demand for those slots has skyrocketed. Ships have increasingly traveled through the Panama Canal as shipments are rerouted and buyers purchase from other countries to avoid commerce through now-treacherous Middle Eastern waterway.

“With all the bombings, the missiles, the drones … companies are saying it’s safer and less expensive to cross through the Panama Canal,” said Rodrigo Noriega, said lawyer and analyst in Panama City. “All of this is affecting global supply chains.”

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Meanwhile, Noriega said Panama’s government is “maximizing what it can earn from the Panama Canal.”

The average price to cross through the canal ranges between $300,000 and $400,000 depending on the vessel. Previously, to get an earlier crossing, businesses would pay an additional $250,000 to $300,000. In recent weeks, the average additional cost has jumped to around $425,000.

Ricaurte Vásquez, the canal’s administrator, said another company that he would not name paid an extra $4 million when its fuel vessel had to change its destination because of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

“It was a ship carrying fuel to Europe, and they redirected it to Singapore, and it needed to get there because Singapore is running out of fuel,” he said.

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Other oil companies paid an excess of $3 million in addition to the crossing fee to accelerate their passage in the face of soaring oil prices.

Vásquez said that ships have not piled up at the canal, but rather the costs can be attributed to last-minute shifts and greater urgency by vessels needing to get from one point to another faster in the wake of larger trade chaos.

Vásquez emphasized that the costs were not a blanket market rate, but rather a temporary toll shouldered by companies.

“They decide how high a price to go,” Vásquez said.

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At the same time it’s earning more money from the new business, Panama’s government has also been dealt a blow by the geopolitical struggle.

On Wednesday, the country’s foreign ministry accused Iran of illegally seizing a Panama-flagged vessel from the Italian company, MSC Francesca, in the Strait of Hormuz.

Panama, a country with one of the world’s largest ship registries, said the ship was “forcibly taken” by Iran. It wasn’t immediately clear if the boat remained in Iranian custody.

“This represents a serious attack on maritime security and constitute an unnecessary escalation at a time when the international community is advocating for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open to international navigation without threats or coercion of any kind,” it said.

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Noriega, the analyst, said that the amount companies are paying to cross the Panama Canal may only go up if the conflict continues to stretch on, as oil prices are already skyrocketing. The price of a barrel of Brent crude oil briefly jumped above $107 this week, soaring from around $66 a barrel a year ago.

“No one really foresaw the potential effects (the war) would have on global trade,” Noriega said.

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Flight canceled amid jet fuel shock? What travelers should know

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Flight canceled amid jet fuel shock? What travelers should know

Airlines worldwide have begun canceling flights as the war in the Middle East strains jet fuel supplies and pushes up prices — but the disruption doesn’t end there.

For travelers, it can mean having to navigate a confusing web of passenger protections that vary widely depending on where they’re flying.

And the timing is amplifying the impact.

These pressures are arriving at a time when summer travel demand is ramping up, with major events such as the World Cup expected to put additional strain on airports,” said Eric Napoli, chief legal officer at AirHelp, a company that helps travelers secure compensation for flight disruptions and advocates for passenger rights.

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Here’s what to know if your flight is canceled.

Are these cancellations happening at the last minute?

In most cases, no. At least for now, fuel-related cuts are often being made days or weeks in advance. Lufthansa Group, for example, said this week it is cutting 20,000 short-haul flights across its network through October.

That gives you more time to adjust plans than you’d typically get with weather-related disruptions, which tend to trigger last-minute cancellations.

My flight was canceled. What should I do first?

Check your airline’s app or website immediately for rebooking options. If you’re flying on a U.S. carrier, that’s often the fastest and easiest way to secure a new seat, according to Tyler Hosford, security director at International SOS, a global risk management and travel security company.

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Non-U.S. carriers tend to have fewer digital tools, Hosford said, so it’s worth trying multiple channels, including the airline’s customer service lines or airport desks.

Do I have the right to a refund or a new flight?

In most cases, yes. Airlines typically offer either a refund or a rebooking on the next available flight. The exact rules vary by country, but those are the baseline options you can expect.

In the U.S., for example, if your flight is canceled and you choose not to travel, the airline must refund you, regardless of the reason. Airlines may offer travel credits instead, but you’re entitled to a full refund for airfare and any extras you didn’t use, such as baggage fees or seat upgrades.

Are passenger rights the same everywhere?

No, and protections vary widely by region — from the Montreal Convention, which governs airline liability across more than 140 countries, to specific consumer protection laws in the U.S., Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Turkey and Brazil.

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Europe has some of the strongest protections, including compensation in certain cases. And they apply to any flight departing from an EU airport, regardless of the airline, as well as to passengers flying on an EU-based carrier into the EU — even if the journey starts outside Europe. The United Kingdom maintains a similar framework.

The U.S. and Canada offer more limited protections. Policies vary widely across Asia, and in some cases travelers may need to rely more on airline policies than formal regulations.

To get a clearer picture, experts recommend searching the name of the country you’re departing from and “passenger rights” before your trip.

What protections apply?

It depends.

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Airlines may cite fuel shortages or rising fuel costs as the reason for cancellations. But whether you’re entitled to compensation often comes down to if the disruption is considered within the airline’s control under local laws.

Regardless of the cause, Napoli said, airlines in the European Union, for example, still have a “duty of care,” meaning they must provide “necessary support” to travelers, including rebooking.

“While airlines are citing fuel shortages as a reason for upcoming cancellations, travelers need to know that this does not automatically waive their rights” under EU laws, Napoli said.

How can I prepare before a trip to avoid headaches?

A few steps can make disruptions easier to manage.

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Sign up for flight alerts to stay informed, and book directly with the airline when possible — it’s much easier to resolve issues with the carrier directly than through a third-party booking site.

Knowing your options ahead of time and having a backup plan can make a significant difference if plans change.

What do I need for a claim or complaint?

Documentation is critical. Save everything: boarding passes, receipts, cancellation notices and any communication from the airline.

Take screenshots of app or website updates and any communication taking place online, and jot down key details from phone calls.

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Napoli also recommends asking the airline for written confirmation of a flight disruption, including the stated reason.

Should I accept the first alternative flight the airline offers?

Not necessarily.

Experts say one of the most common mistakes travelers make is taking the first option without checking alternatives. Look at other flights, routes or even nearby airports because you may find a faster or more convenient way to reach your destination.

Can I book a different flight myself?

Yes, but proceed carefully.

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If the airline’s rebooking option doesn’t meet your needs — especially if your new flight isn’t for several days — you can look for alternatives and request a refund instead.

Just be aware you may need to pay any fare difference up front, and you might not be reimbursed later.

Any other tips to avoid getting stuck?

— Book flights earlier in the day so you have more rebooking options if something goes wrong.

— Set up flight alerts through tracking apps such as Flighty to get early notice of cancellations or delays. In some cases, Hosford said, notifications arrive before the airline’s.

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— Consider nearby airports as backup options.

— Be kind. Airline agents may be more willing to help when interactions stay calm and respectful.

“Ultimately, the shortage is squeezing the entire system, from travelers to airlines, and is something to watch as the industry looks for any relief ahead of the summer travel season,” Napoli said.

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Parts of Scotland to be hotter than Malta – but will the country’s warm weather last?

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Daily Record

Many Scots are hoping that the warm weather will last as we near the end of April.

After long bouts of unpredictable weather, which can quickly switch throughout the day, many Scots will be making the most of today’s warm spell that sees many areas bake in 19C heat (April 24). While the Met Office is advising Scots to wear sun cream, some of us are wondering if this warmer weather will continue?

While the weather today may start a bit cooler for some, by 4pm Pitlochry, Glasgow and Cumnock are set to rise to just below 20C, making it perfect weather for Scots to dig out some of their summer clothes and head outside. This is followed closely behind by Fort William, Biggar, Stirling, and Helensburgh set to hit highs of 18C.

These toasty temperatures even make parts of Scotland hotter than a few holiday hotspots. According to the Met Office’s forecast, Barcelona in Spain and Malta’s capital Valletta are only set to rise to 18C.

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Meanwhile, not all Scots will be able to enjoy a melting ice cream today as weather maps are reporting that the east coast will barely make it out of single figures. While Dundee is predicted to reach a high of 14C this afternoon, Aberdeen and Banff will still be on the chillier side at 11C – with Peterhead shockingly only rising to 9C.

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Looking at today’s forecast for the UK, Met Office presenter and meteorologist Clare Nasir said: “Friday starts murky across parts of central and eastern England, with frost inland across Scotland and parts further south. However, low cloud and fog will clear through the morning, leading to another fine day. High pressure remains firmly in control across the UK.”

The looming question is whether this warm spell is set to continue or if Scots will need to keep their warmer jackets at the ready for another chilly spell? According to the national forecaster, the week ahead looks to be a mixed bag.

Looking towards the weekend, deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates warns that rainy conditions are on the horizon for some Scots. He said: “High pressure will remain broadly in charge of the UK’s weather for the remainder of this week and into the weekend.

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“Most places will remain dry with a fair amount of sunshine too. As is often the case, there are a few exceptions, with cloudier conditions for some at times and patchy rain possible for northern Scotland later in the weekend, so keep an eye on the forecast as the week progresses.

“In the sunshine, we’re expecting temperatures to steadily climb, likely peaking in the low twenties on Friday and over the weekend. Onshore breezes will keep some coastal areas somewhat cooler. And gardeners beware, where skies are clear and winds light overnight, a patchy frost is also likely.”

While Glasgow is set to reach a high of 16C on Sunday, April 26, the rest of the country is only predicted to rise to 13C to 14C by late afternoon. However, temperatures are set to remain steady throughout the night and into Monday morning, April 27, as mercury sits at around 8C for most.

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As the week progresses however, temperatures are predicted to rise. By Wednesday, April 29, the west coast of Scotland is once again expected to rise to 19C in Oban and Fort William. While Ullapool and Aberlour are predicted to enjoy 18C, temperatures are to be slightly lower in Perth and Edinburgh, which will reach 15C.

These toasty temperatures are then predicted to rise again on Thursday, April 30, with a wide spread of Scotland sitting just below 20C by the afternoon. While clear skies also predicted, Scots will be able to take the chance to enjoy an evening stroll as the toasty temperatures continue.

However, much like this week’s forecast, the east coast does not seem to be enjoying the rising mercury just yet. While Dundee and Peterhead are predicted to improve to a slightly milder temperature of 14C, Aberdeen is still seen to sit at 12C. However, the forecast could still change, so Scots on the east coast may experience warmer spells.

As we enter into May, the temperatures are once again seen to dip slightly to 15C around midday. While this may not be the consistent warmer weather that many Scots were hoping for, everyone will be in agreement that it is far better than the chillier winter dips.

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However, while this soaring heat is a welcomed change, it does come with a warning.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Wildfire Forum have warned of an “extreme” risk of wildfire, especially in the west of Scotland. This alert spans from Friday until Sunday, with the fire service urging people to avoid lighting outdoor fires across the country to keep the public, nature and wildlife safe.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, the fire service head of prevention and chairman of the forum, said: “Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions.

“People living in the impacted areas should avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread, causing a large amount of damage. Remember, there’s no such thing as a harmless fire.”

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M&S chairman blames self-service checkouts for rise in shoplifting

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M&S chairman blames self-service checkouts for rise in shoplifting

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, he said: “When normally good, honest people come in and they’re buying their shopping and it doesn’t scan, and there’s nobody manning the checkouts, they’re saying: ‘It’s not my fault and I don’t have much time so if I can’t get my strawberries through, I’ll just put them in my basket’.”

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Trump threatens to review UK’s claim to Falkland Islands and punish Nato allies over Iran war disagreement

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Trump threatens to review UK’s claim to Falkland Islands and punish Nato allies over Iran war disagreement

The US could review Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands as punishment for a lack of support in Donald Trump’s war on Iran.

The potential review was leaked in an internal Pentagon email, which outlined outlined options to punish NATO allies, who the US president has repeatedly hit out at for their response to the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East.

Among the options reportedly under consideration was a re-evaluation of the US position on Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands and also the suspension of Spain from the alliance.

These policy considerations are detailed in a confidential memo, which expresses significant frustration over certain allies’ perceived reluctance or outright refusal to grant Access, Basing, and Overflight (ABO) rights essential for the Iran conflict.

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The official, who spoke anonymously to describe the email, stated that ABO is “just the absolute baseline for Nato,” adding that these options are circulating at high levels within the Pentagon.

Further proposals within the email envision the suspension of “difficult” countries from important or prestigious positions within the Nato framework.

These revelations emerge as Donald Trump has previously criticised Nato allies for failing to deploy their navies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, which became inaccessible to global shipping following the commencement of the air war on 28 February.

He has also openly considered withdrawing from the alliance, asking Reuters in an 1 April interview, “Wouldn’t you if you were me?” when questioned about the possibility of a US pull-out.

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The memo also includes an option to consider reassessing US diplomatic support for longstanding European
The memo also includes an option to consider reassessing US diplomatic support for longstanding European “imperial possessions,” such as the Falkland Islands near Argentina (PA)

But the email does not suggest that the United States do so, the official said. It also does not propose closing bases in Europe.

The official declined to say whether the options included a widely expected US drawdown of some forces from Europe, however.

Asked for comment on the email, Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson responded: “As President Trump has said, despite everything that the United States has done for our Nato allies, they were not there for us.

“The War Department will ensure that the President has credible options to ensure that our allies are no longer a paper tiger and instead do their part. We have no further comment on any internal deliberations to that effect,” Wilson said.

The US-Israeli war with Iran has raised serious questions about the future of ​the 76-year-old bloc and provoked unprecedented concern that the US might not come to the aid of European allies should they be attacked, analysts and diplomats say.

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Britain, France and others say that joining the US naval ​blockade would amount to entering the war, but that they would be willing to help keep the Strait open once there was a lasting ceasefire or the conflict ended.

President Donald Trump has harshly criticised NATO allies for not sending their navies to help open the Strait of Hormuz, which was closed to global shipping ‌following the start of the air war on 28 February
President Donald Trump has harshly criticised NATO allies for not sending their navies to help open the Strait of Hormuz, which was closed to global shipping ‌following the start of the air war on 28 February (AFP/Getty)

But Trump administration officials have stressed that Nato cannot be a one-way street.

They have expressed frustration with Spain, where the Socialist leadership said it ​would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran. The United States has two important military bases in Spain: Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base.

The policy options outlined in the email would be intended to send a strong signal to Nato allies with the goal of “decreasing the sense of entitlement on the part of the Europeans,” the official said, summarising the email.

The option to suspend Spain from the alliance would have a limited effect on US military operations but a significant symbolic impact, the email argues.

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The official did not disclose how the United States might pursue suspending Spain from the alliance, and Reuters could not immediately determine whether there was an existing mechanism at Nato to do so.

“We do not work off emails. We work off official documents and government positions, in this case of the United States,” Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez said when asked about the report ahead of a meeting of European Union leaders in Cyprus to discuss topics including Nato’s mutual assistance clause.

The Trump administration has expressed frustration with Spain, where the Socialist leadership said it ​would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran
The Trump administration has expressed frustration with Spain, where the Socialist leadership said it ​would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran (Ministerio de Defensa)

The memo also includes an option to consider reassessing US diplomatic support for longstanding European “imperial possessions,” such as the Falkland Islands near Argentina.

The State Department’s website states that the islands are administered by the United Kingdom but are still claimed by Argentina, whose Libertarian President Javier Milei is a Trump ally.

Britain and Argentina fought a brief war in 1982 over the islands after Argentina made a failed bid to take them. Some 650 Argentine soldiers and 255 British troops died before Argentina surrendered.

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Trump has repeatedly insulted Prime Minister Keir Starmer, calling him cowardly because of his unwillingness to join the US war with Iran, ​saying he was “No Winston Churchill” and describing Britain’s aircraft carriers as “toys.”

Britain initially did not grant a request from the US to allow its aircraft to attack Iran from two British bases, but later ​agreed to allow defensive missions aimed at protecting residents of the region, including British citizens, amid Iranian retaliation.

Addressing reporters at the Pentagon earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said “a lot has been laid bare” by the war with Iran, noting that Iran’s longer-range missiles cannot hit the United States but can reach Europe.

“We get questions, or roadblocks, or hesitations … You don’t have much of an alliance if you have countries that are not willing to stand with you when you need them,” Hegseth said.

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Relive the 90s and other fun things to do in Bolton this week

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Relive the 90s and other fun things to do in Bolton this week

Step back in time and relive the 80s and 90s this weekend.

APicture by the Bolton Evening NewsAnt and Dec at Kiss nightclub, Bolton in July, 1994. Picture by the Bolton Evening News (Image: NQ)

The Georgian House in Blackrod is putting on the themed night on Saturday night to run into Sunday.

Dust off your neon leg warmers and acid-washed jeans for a night filled with the greatest hits frm the 80s and 90s and enjoy a nostaligic trip down memory lane.

The party starts at 7pm and ends at 1am.

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For tickets and more information visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/80s-and-90s-night-tickets-1978826805243?

The Angry Brigade (Image: Agency)

THEATRE

The Angry Brigade is set in 1970s Britain during a period of Tory cuts, high unemployment, and increasing inequality, focusing on the hunt for the anarchist group “The Angry Brigade” by a special police squad.

The play contrasts the contrasting perspectives of the establishment and the young urban guerrillas, exploring themes of political engagement, rebellion, and the human cost of pursuing a radical vision for a fairer world.

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The play for those aged 14 and over will show on Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2 at the Octagon.

For tickets visit the Octagon website.

Eagley Band (Image: Supplied)

CONCERT

Music from some of the best-known musicals ever is on offer when Eagley Community Band and Eagley Community Choir stage their Spring Concert this Saturday (April 25).

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Expect everything from Miss Saigon, to Anything Goes, and Gershwin and Matt Monro to Bon Jovi and Mariah Carey at the event at The Bridge Church, Bradford Street Bolton.

There will be plenty of audience participation at Eagley at the Bridge which runs from 7.30pm to 9.45pm with refreshments available.

Tickets are £5 each from Booth’s Music on Churchgate in the town centre, tel 01204 522908 or pay at the door.

Mass ObservationMass Observation Please note copyright credit requested by BoltonCouncil (Image: Bolton Council)

TALK:

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Talk on Mass Observation in Blackpool.

In the 1930s, Blackpool was Britain’s most popular seaside resort, attracting thousands of millworkers from Bolton and other Lancashire cotton towns.

The strange and wonderful world of 1930s Blackpool is captured in the photographs of Humphrey Spender and Julian Trevelyan, taken for Mass Observation.

This talk explores what Mass Observation discovered when they followed local holidaymakers to Blackpool.

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It will take place oin Tuesday 5 May, 1 pm in the Lecture Theatre, Bolton Central Library

Free, no need to book

Funfair (Image: Unsplash)

FUNFAIR

A children’s fun fair will set up at Bolton Cricket Club on Green Lane this weekend, April 25 and 26, open daily from 1pm till 7pm all rides £2.

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EastEnders fans ‘actually cried’ as they heap praise on powerful episode | Soaps

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EastEnders fans 'actually cried' as they heap praise on powerful episode | Soaps
Ravi Gulati has been struggling with hid mental health (Picture: BBC / Jack Barnes / Kieron McCarron)

Trigger warning: This article contains discussion of topics including self-harm and suicide.

EastEnders fans were left in tears after a devastating visit to Walford on Thursday (April 23), which saw Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) sectioned after attempt to take his own life.

The popular character has been struggling with his mental health for months, with Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) determined to get him the help he needs after she discovered that he had been self-harming.

The situation escalated rapidly earlier this week when Ravi – convinced that his enemies were out to get him – obtained new locks for the flat he shares with his partner and their kids Nugget (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) and Avani (Aaliyah James).

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Priya was concerned when Ravi wouldn’t let her leave, as were Avani and Nugget when they stumbled upon the new locks.

Ravi broke down when confronted over the bruises on Priya’s arm, which he’d unknowingly inflicted during a nightmare, and he subsequently confirmed that he was the one who accidentally attacked Nugget.

With emotions at an all-time high, Priya successfully managed to secure her freedom by telling Ravi that they’d leave Walford together but a crash ensued on the way to the hospital, leaving everyone in need of medical attention.

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Ravi was devastated and thus he left the hospital and made his way back to the Square, where he stood on the edge of a bridge, attempting to take his own life.

Priya watched in devastation before attempting to talk Ravi down, making him see that he is still very much loved. Nugget, meanwhile, raced to support his dad, begging him ‘don’t go’ in emotional scenes.

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Ravi looks upset in EastEnders
Ravi contemplated taking his own life (Picture: BBC)

Ravi reconsidered and broke down, hugging his loved ones with all his might. The police subsequently arrived and sectioned Ravi, who will next week receive a diagnosis of complex PTSD.

The episode in question received praise from fans, particularly the performance from Ravi star Aaron Thiara, who was nothing short of incredible.

Metro reader Sharon saying that they ‘actually cried’ when watching the episode. ‘He is a great actor, and its a great storyline, mens mental health isnt addressed enough.’

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Ravi with his hair down in therapy in EastEnders
Ravi receives a diagnosis next week (Picture: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Olwyn added: ‘This had me in tears. So real’, while Linda said: ‘This has broke my heart to watch, brilliant acting by Ravi and his family.’

‘The acting by Aaron Thiara was exceptional,’ said Barbara. ‘The emotional scenes showing Ravi’s mental health battle had me in tears’.

Debbie felt that the episode proves that ‘EastEnders has ‘really lifted their game’.

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‘The storylines are great and shows the versatility of the actors,’ they wrote. ‘Seeing this side of Ravi is upsetting and a true representation of a person struggling.’

It was a sentiment that Anne agreed with, commenting: ‘Its great this storyline allowed the actor to show his talent. Not an easy part to play and must have been extremely difficult and draining for him.’

Next week, Ravi will begin therapy sessions following his diagnosis.

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or stream from 6am on BBC iPlayer. 

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If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you.

Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps on our homepage.

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Cambridgeshire drug dealer with nine phones ran county lines network

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Cambridgeshire Live

The police had ‘damning evidence’ against the 26-year-old

A man who supplied drugs in different counties has been jailed. Artur Shabani, 26, was at his home in High Street, Eye, when Cambridgeshire Police searched his property on March 2.

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Officers had received information about cocaine being supplied to South Lincolnshire and Rutland, and an operation was being run from Eye. At his home, officers found nine mobile phones in Shabani’s bedroom, as well as a small amount of cocaine and drug dealing paraphernalia elsewhere in the property.

Mobile phone analysis revealed bulk messages related to selling cocaine. The investigation also uncovered CCTV evidence that showed Shabani topping up one of the dealer phones, which was an unregistered pay-as-you-go device.

On Tuesday (April 21), Shabani was jailed to 36 months in prison after appearing at Cambridge Crown Court. He admitted to being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

DC Jenny Hargreaves said: “The evidence against Shabani was damning, giving him little option but to plead guilty. I’m pleased he has been brought to justice, and this county lines operation selling cocaine in Rutland and South Lincolnshire disrupted.

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“County lines can often be linked to other offences such as criminal exploitation and the substances they deal trap people in addiction. We will continue our efforts to identify those involved in supplying drugs and bring them before the courts.”

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Millwall consider legal action after club badge used on image of Ku Klux Klan member

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An image of Millwall's club crest

In a message on X via the official supporters’ club,, external Millwall said the “serious misuse of a registered club badge” created a “false and damaging image of the club”.

Millwall said the council confirmed any remaining copies of the booklet they have will be destroyed and no more copies will be made and distributed.

“The club is still considering its legal position on the matter and are unable to comment further,” it said.

The Paul Canoville Foundation said it was aware of the image, which was widely shared on social media, but stressed it had no involvement in the material’s content, saying it was “not produced by, commissioned by, or approved” by the foundation or Canoville.

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“Our involvement in the associated programme was limited solely to Paul’s personal appearance; meeting students and sharing his lived experience,” the foundation’s chief executive officer Raphael Frascogna said in a statement., external

“At no stage were we shown, consulted on, or asked to approve the content of the booklet, including any illustrations within it.”

Frascogna added the illustration does depict a real incident Canoville experienced when playing for Chelsea reserves against Millwall reserves in the 1980s, “in which he was subjected to serious racial abuse by a number of individuals wearing Ku Klux Klan-style white hoods”.

Former winger Canoville, now 64, played for Chelsea for five years from 1981 and scored 15 goals in 103 games, later retiring because of a knee injury aged 25 after a short spell at Reading.

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Millwall are third in the Championship this season, level on points with second-placed Ipswich, who are in the automatic promotion places.

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Scientists discover planet dubbed the new Jupiter – and it smells of wee | News Tech

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Scientists discover planet dubbed the new Jupiter - and it smells of wee | News Tech
An artist’s impression of the planet Epsilon Indi Ab, with water clouds floating over its ammonia-dominated atmosphere (Picture: E. C. Matthews, MPIA / T. Müller, HdA/Cover Media)

Astronomers have found a Jupiter-like planet several light years away which probably smells of urine.

Epsilon Indi Ab has an ammonia atmosphere with clouds of water floating above the surface – and ammonia and water are the two primary components of urine.

The pungent planet may not be top of the list for any colonisation plans by Elon Musk, but it has intrigued scientists studying it with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

Elisabeth Matthews, from the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy, is the lead author of a new study.

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She said: ‘JWST is finally allowing us to study solar-system analogue planets in detail. If we were aliens, several light years away, and looking back at the Sun, JWST is the first telescope that would allow us to study Jupiter in detail.

‘For studying Earth in detail, we would need much more advanced telescopes, though.’

The team studied Epsilon Indi Ab using Webb’s mid-infrared instrument.

They found it is around 7.6 times the mass of Jupiter but a similar size and orbits its star at a much greater distance than most exoplanets studied so far, giving it a relatively low temperature of between –70C and +20C.

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The discovery of the clouds of water were unexpected and not typical of many existing models of exoplanet atmospheres, as they are complex to simulate.

A digital image creation of Jupiter. Epsilon Indi Ab is the same size but far heavier (Picture: Getty Images)

James Mang of the University of Texas at Austin said: ‘It’s a great problem to have, and it speaks to the immense progress we’re making thanks to JWST.

‘What once seemed impossible to detect is now within reach, allowing us to probe the structure of these atmospheres, including the presence of clouds.

‘This reveals new layers of complexity that our models are now beginning to capture, and opens the door to even more detailed characterisation of these cold, distant worlds.’

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NASA’s planned Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, expected to launch later this decade, may be able to detect such reflective clouds more directly.

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BREAKING: Passenger dies on UK Cathay Pacific flight to Hong Kong after collapsing ahead of landing

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A 51-year-old man died during a Cathay Pacific flight from Manchester to Hong Kong on Friday morning – this is a breaking story

A 51-year-old man has died during a Cathay Pacific flight from Manchester to Hong Kong.

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The passenger lost consciousness during flight CX216, which departed Manchester Airport at 11.04am HKT on Thursday and landed at Hong Kong International Airport at 6.53am on Friday (11.53pm BST on Thursday). Hong Kong police said they received a report at around 6.15am local time on Friday that a passenger had collapsed on board the flight, according to the Hong Kong Free Press.

An autopsy is currently underway to determine the cause of death, the outlet reports.

In a statement to the South China Morning Post, a spokesperson for Hong Kong’s flag carrier said that “the crew and a doctor on board had provided immediate first aid to the victim”. The spokesperson added that an ambulance was called and paramedics boarded the plane upon landing.

This is a Breaking News story. You’ll be more likely to see our stories when any big news breaks in future by simply by clicking this link. You can also join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads – or visit The Mirror homepage.

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