A lifelong Boyzone fan attended the band’s Two for the Road reunion concert at London’s Emirates Stadium and found a night of real emotion and nostalgia

When Boyzone announced their Two for the Road reunion gigs at London’s Emirates Stadium, I was absolutely thrilled. As a devoted fan, I’ve watched the band perform numerous times throughout the years.

I was even fortunate enough to attend what was promoted as their final-ever performance at the London Palladium in 2019. That evening felt like the ideal farewell, poignant, sentimental and fitting.

So when this comeback was revealed, I was genuinely thrilled. There was also a personal element to it. A few years back, I collaborated with Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden on the PR for a Boyzlife tour through the excellent team at Hush PR. Watching Keith return to the stage stirred memories of that period, while Brian continues to be one of the most gifted vocalists to emerge from the boyband generation.

Like countless fans, I’d also viewed the recent Boyzone Sky documentary. It was deeply moving in parts, especially hearing Mikey Graham discuss his difficulties and his time in the band. Above all else, it left me wishing this reunion would be a tribute to all four remaining members standing united.

That’s why the opening moments of the gig caught me off guard. As the music started and the audience erupted, I found myself in tears almost instantly. The nostalgia struck me more powerfully than I’d anticipated. But as I glanced towards the stage, something didn’t feel right.

There were only three members present. Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch emerged to thunderous applause, but Mikey was conspicuously absent. I recall glancing around and questioning whether I’d somehow overlooked something. After all, I’d purchased a ticket anticipating the reunion of the four surviving members, reports the Mirror.

When Mikey finally emerged singing Words, the response from the audience was enormous. It was genuinely heartwarming to witness him back with the others and, from my vantage point, there appeared to be a conscious effort from Ronan especially to remain near him.

During the three numbers Mikey performed and the encore, Ronan frequently positioned himself beside him, keeping an eye on him and ensuring he felt part of the occasion. Whether deliberate or not, it seemed protective and affectionate, and it was genuinely one of the most moving aspects of the evening.

Based on the chatter surrounding me and the response on social media afterwards, I clearly wasn’t alone in feeling puzzled. Above all else, fans appeared worried. Many simply hoped he was alright and wished he’d featured more prominently during the show.

That’s not to diminish the contributions of Ronan 49, Keith 51, and Shane 49. The trio were exceptional. The years appear to have scarcely affected them. Their energy was contagious, their vocals were powerful and they still possess that chemistry which made Boyzone one of the biggest bands on the planet. Watching them perform reminded everyone precisely why they shifted millions of records and provided the soundtrack to countless lives. Then came the Stephen Gately tribute. Stephen was my favourite member of Boyzone, so naturally I was wholeheartedly behind honouring his memory.

The band donned red – his favourite colour – and paid their respects to their late bandmate in what began as a deeply touching celebration of his life and legacy. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

Yet the segment soon grew into something far greater. The names of loved ones submitted by fans flashed up on screens throughout the stadium. The Lord’s Prayer was recited. Others the band had lost over the years were also remembered. It was undeniably moving. In fact, those around me were openly weeping. But it also shifted the mood quite dramatically.

For a spell, the concert stopped feeling like a reunion and started to resemble more of a memorial service. While the emotion was entirely genuine and heartfelt, it left the atmosphere noticeably muted. Then came another unexpected moment. The concert drew to a close with Life Is A Rollercoaster.

It’s a brilliant song and one of Ronan’s greatest hits, but it’s also a Ronan Keating solo track rather than a Boyzone number. For a reunion concert celebrating Boyzone’s remarkable back catalogue, it felt like a somewhat curious choice for the grand finale.

The surprises didn’t stop there. Towards the end of the evening, Keith was joined on stage by Brian McFadden for a Boyzlife performance of their single Chills. As someone who previously worked alongside the pair during the Boyzlife tour, I was delighted to see them reunited. Brian’s voice remains outstanding and the rapport between the two is unmistakable.

However, if I’m being entirely frank, a part of me couldn’t shake the feeling that fans had paid to see Boyzone. On an evening when many people were already questioning why Mikey wasn’t featured on stage more prominently, it felt like yet another occasion where attention shifted away from the main act.

In the aftermath, social media was awash with discussion. Some fans were absolutely thrilled with the show. Others raised questions about Mikey’s minimal presence. Many shared my own mixed emotions and concerns.

What seemed to unite nearly everyone was their fondness for Mikey. The response online wasn’t fury, it was worry. Fans simply wanted to see him more involved and appearing content.

There were also conversations about ticket sales, with some fans revealing they had snapped up heavily discounted tickets through Blue Light promotions for NHS staff and emergency service workers – something I genuinely believe warrants recognition.

Despite some vacant seats, the fans in attendance sang along to every lyric. And that’s what I’ll cherish most.

The screams when the band emerged on stage. The tears during Words. Watching Ronan discreetly stay close to Mikey. The poignancy of honouring Stephen’s memory. The nostalgia of hearing songs that shaped an entire generation. I’m truly pleased I attended. There were moments that brought tears to my eyes, moments that left me beaming and moments that whisked me straight back to my teenage years.

But as I departed the Emirates Stadium, I couldn’t escape the sensation that I’d just experienced a reunion that wasn’t quite what many of us had anticipated.

For all its emotion and nostalgia, Boyzone’s 2019 farewell tour still feels like the band’s ideal conclusion. And perhaps that’s precisely why, despite everything I cherished about this performance, I departed with more questions than answers.

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

AT this time of year, it is hard to beat an early morning workout.

The sun is up earlier, the temperatures are cooler and there is a real sense of calm before the day gets going.

READ MORE: Enjoy your holiday and stay fit without ruining your break

I know that morning exercise is not for everyone, but there are some big benefits to getting your movement done early.

One of the biggest advantages is that there are fewer distractions.

As the day goes on, life tends to get in the way. Work, family commitments, appointments and unexpected jobs can quickly push exercise down the priority list.

When you exercise first thing, it is done. You do not spend the day thinking about when you are going to fit it in.

You have already ticked the box and can get on with your day.

The cooler temperatures are another benefit, especially during the summer months. Exercising in the middle of the day can feel uncomfortable when it is warm. Early mornings are often much more pleasant and make walking, running or training feel easier.

Morning exercise can also boost your energy levels. It might sound strange, but moving your body often helps you feel more awake and alert. A short walk, gym session or home workout can leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

Many people also find that exercising in the morning helps improve their mood. Starting the day with some movement creates a positive mindset. You have achieved something before most people are even out of bed.

Another benefit is consistency. People who exercise in the morning often find it easier to stick to a routine. When exercise becomes part of your morning, it starts to feel automatic rather than something you have to think about.

The good news is that you do not need to get up at five o’clock or spend hours training. Even ten to twenty minutes can make a difference. A short walk, some simple strength exercises or a quick workout at home is enough to get the benefits.

If you are not a morning person, start small. Set your alarm ten minutes earlier and build from there. You do not need to change everything overnight.

The aim is not to create the perfect routine. The aim is to find something that works for you and helps you stay active consistently.

Whether it is a walk around the block, a gym session before work or a quick workout in the living room, getting your exercise done early can set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Katie Price has defiantly stood by her man despite his lies and alleged cons being exposed in recent months – now, she’s revealed what will be her final straw.

The ex-glamour model, 48, married Lee Andrews in Dubai in January, mere days after meeting him and accepting his lavish, rose petal-scattered proposal.

Her family and friends have warned her repeatedly, making it clear that they do not approve of Lee, who has been branded a ‘swindler,’ a ‘liar,’ and a ‘narcissist’ by his ex-girlfriends, who also claim he stole thousands of pounds from them.

So-called multimillionaire Lee has profusely denied any criminal activity, but further suspicions were raised on May 13 when he disappeared, leaving Katie to fear he had been kidnapped.

After weeks of no contact with her fourth hubby (but whose Instagram remained very much active), it emerged that Lee had been arrested and was being held at Dubai’s notorious Al Awir prison.

Earlier this week, Katie flew over from England with hopes of visiting him. While she only got to speak to him on the phone, Katie has now admitted that she’s prepared to walk away from her marriage.

In a new interview with The Sun, the reality TV star explained that she’s had a ‘tough few weeks’, having liaised with authorities in the UAE to try and trace Lee before it came to light that he was behind bars.

‘But I’ve still stayed strong through it all, and I have a smile on my face.

‘So, in this situation, I’m doing what I want to do, and I’m out here in Dubai because I’m here to help Lee.’

She acknowledged that ‘some people might not like [her] choices’, but, in true Pricey style, she’s ‘not living for everyone else’.

‘I know people have been calling me stupid. I see all the trolling; I hear it. I am not stupid.’

Katie went on to say that she has been ‘taking notes’ but she feels ‘protected’ against Lee’s potential scams, due to the ‘nation looking out for [her]’.

Still, she wants answers.

‘I’m not a mug, and when I finally see Lee, I am going to question him. And if the answers I get are not right, that will be it: I’ll be done.

‘That’s it. And I’ll just get on with my life… and not find a man on Instagram and message him.’

Lee must pay a £140,000 fee for his release to be granted, a sum Katie will, thankfully, not cough up herself.

Initially, officials told her that she must pay £6.5k for the authorities to release Lee, heading to the courthouse with two case numbers and with every intention of doing just that. One of his charges is said to relate to a bounced cheque.

However, she was then informed of a third case awaiting a court date, allegedly relating to property. This is the one the self-proclaimed successful CEO must pay six figures for, which is where good Samaritan Katie draws the line.

Also in the interview, Katie reflected on her meeting with Lee’s ex, personal trainer Dina Taji, who had a ‘warning’ for her after he allegedly forged her signature to take out a £200k mortgage in her name.

Upon being reported to the authorities, Lee was arrested and spent time behind bars last autumn. After he was released, he was slapped with the famous travel ban he long denied having… which Katie has now confirmed he does.

Meeting with Dina, Katie said, ‘opened [her] eyes’, having spent six hours examining the evidence she has.

Bewildered and overwhelmed, Katie added that she now ‘needs some time to think’.

‘I still cannot end things with Lee until I’ve spoken to him, but that was a lot.’

The whole saga has been a real whirlwind for Katie’s fans to keep up with, particularly as she has continued professing her love for Lee via social media while inside sources simultaneously claimed she’s looking to move on.

‘Katie is in pieces. To the outside world, she wants to keep up the bravado. But inside, she can’t believe how Lee has made her look,’ one told the Daily Mail recently.

Then, just this weekend, she took to her Insta Story with a snap of her dazzling wedding ring, writing: ‘I love @Leeandrews.’

It seems not even Katie can decide whether she’s staying or going.

But she’s ‘not ignoring’ the obvious, she’s argued, and is open to ‘meeting up’ with Lee’s past partners, such as Alana Percival, who has been very public with her feelings towards Lee and what allegedly went down, should she split from him for good.

Katie added: ‘But right now, I’m sticking up for myself. He’s got a side of the story, so have these women,’ calling it ‘unfair’ to only listen to one version.

‘I cannot just walk away from my marriage without seeing him again. He is, surely, entitled to his say?’

MORE: Katie Price flies out to see husband Lee Andrews as he makes Instagram change

MORE: Katie Price returns to Instagram after account was blocked over complaints

MORE: Katie Price’s ‘ban’ from appearing in daughter Princess’ TV show lifted after marriage drama

Police say there appear to be no suspicious circumstances.

A body has been found in the search for Kyle Cormack who had been reported missing in Dundee.

The 35-year-old was last seen in the Scott Court area of Dundee at around 6.30am on Saturday.

Police confirmed today that a body had been found in the Caird Park area of the city.

Formal identification has not taken place but Mr Cormack’s family have been informed.

Police say there appear to be no suspicious circumstances.

Tributes have since poured in from loved ones following Kyle’s sad passing. Rory Crighton said: “This is heartbreaking to read. I served my apprenticeship with Kyle. I have great memories of our younger days. Thoughts go out to all his family.”

Dennis Swadel wrote: “I worked with Kyle for a few years, a great lad. So tragic and sad.”

Dee Hunt continued: “So sad. I hoped for a better outcome for Kyle. My thoughts and condolences to his parents, family and his friends. Such a handsome young lad. Fly high Kyle xxxx.”

Dianne Troup added: “Absolutely devastating. I’m thinking of Kyle’s mum, dad, Kirstie and the kids. RIP Kyle.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “On the afternoon of Sunday, June 7, 2026, the body of a man was found in the Caird Park area of Dundee.

“Formal identification has yet to take place, however, the family of 35-year-old Kyle Cormack, who had been reported missing from the area, has been informed.

“There would not appear to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit dailyrecord.co.uk

Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @Daily_Record – the official Daily Record Twitter account – real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook – your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Daily Record, Sunday Mail and Record Online

Get Daily Record Premium for just £1 per month in exclusive offer to celebrate the world cup. Click HERE.

The vigil took place at Nelson Square at 5pm on June 7, where members of the public laid flowers and a wreath in memory of the 18-year-old, who died after being stabbed in Southampton last year.

Attendees observed a minute’s silence and were encouraged to speak with one another about their thoughts and concerns surrounding the case.

(Image: NQ)

Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old White British university student, was killed on December 3, 2025.

He suffered five stab wounds, including a fatal wound to the chest.

According to reports, when police officers arrived at the scene, Nowak repeatedly told them he had been stabbed and was struggling to breathe.

He later lost consciousness and died at the scene.

(Image: NQ)

The organiser of Sunday’s vigil said the event was intended to bring people together and provide an opportunity for face-to-face discussion.

He said: “I’m a father of three children in Bolton. Obviously we’ve been affected by the video. I’d never heard about it until the video came out in the news.

“When your leaders are failing and not giving you an avenue to express your emotions or feelings, you have to do it yourself.

“It was just an opportunity for people to come, discuss things and talk about things without doing it over Facebook.

“When you’re talking on Facebook, your voice can be missed or misconstrued. When you’re in person with people, life can be misunderstood sometimes, so it’s just an opportunity for people to say what they’re feeling without being judged or looked down on.”

(Image: NQ)

The organiser also said he wanted people to raise their concerns through official channels.

He added: “I think the only way that you can do things now is by putting things down the right avenues, and that’s by letters.

“If there were 60 people here and each one wrote a letter to Greater Manchester Police asking whether, in light of what’s happened, there will be any retraining, then at least people would get answers.

“If I was a site manager on a building site and there was a serious incident somewhere else, I would have to do retraining. I think police in different areas should have to do retraining too.”

Flowers remained in Nelson Square after the vigil as residents paused to remember Mr Nowak and reflect on the circumstances surrounding his death.

It remains to be seen, though, whether the Reds would move to bring the Uruguayan back to Merseyside. In any case, his future likely will not be confirmed until after the World Cup, or at least until the end of Uruguay’s campaign, which will get underway on June 15 against Saudi Arabia.

Victor Kenny, founder of Captain Mustache, is bringing the fourth annual event to The Crescent on Saturday, June 20, promising a lively occasion packed with “extravagant beards and excellent moustaches”.

Captain Mustache Beard & Moustache Competition is back at The Crescent, York. (Image: Submitted)

Following a strong turnout last year, organisers are expecting an even bigger crowd for 2026, with both competitors and spectators invited to take part in the facial hair festivities.

Recommended reads:
6,000 fans watch York band mark 30 years with huge anniversary show

Huge crowds flock to Scarborough as chart legends bring classic hits to stage

Thousands of enthusiasts flock to North Yorkshire for UK’s largest tractor fest

A competition spokesperson said: “The theme we have chosen this time is Hero & Villains. York has a vast history of Heroes & Villains that have made massive headlines throughout the ages, but why stop there?

“There are so many fictional and non-fictional heroes and villains – the possibilities are endless. If dressing up is your thing we look forward to seeing your imagination run wild… and those facial features beautifully displayed!”

Captain Mustache Beard & Moustache Competition is back at The Crescent, York. (Image: Submitted)

The competition will feature a wide range of categories, in various styles and sizes, from the refined to the flamboyant.

They will include natural and styled beards (split into under 4”, under 8” and over 8”), as well as awards for best partial beard, best freestyle beard and best moustache. There are also best creative beard categories for women and children, adding an inclusive twist to the event.

Beyond the judging, visitors can expect live music from Robert Hughes, a charity raffle in support of Dementia Forward, and a well-stocked bar. Captain Mustache’s range of luxury grooming products will also be available on the day.

Doors open at 12pm, with the event billed to run until 8pm, with tickets priced at £7 for spectators (under 16s are free); £7 for Under 16s contenders; and £14.50 for competitors.

More information and tickets are available via The Crescent’s website. Available at: https://thecrescentyork.com/events/captain-mustache-beard-moustache-competition-2

The former Tottenham and Manchester United midfielder, who now plies his trade in Germany with Wolfsburg, suffered the same fate at the European championships in 2021 as Denmark faced Finland in the group stage. He was later confirmed to have suffered cardiac arrest and had a defibrillator surgically implanted.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Former Sen. Bob Packwood, a moderate Oregon Republican whose reputation as a champion of abortion and women’s rights was spoiled at the end of his career by allegations of sexual harassment, has died. He was 93.

Packwood’s death on Saturday was announced in an obituary sent to media outlets by his family. The release didn’t include additional details.

Packwood was a political scrapper who first refused to quit the chamber in which he had served for 27 years, saying he didn’t want to be remembered only for that controversy.

Before the #MeToo era, Packwood stood out as an example of private behavior undermining a man’s public image. He had been praised by Planned Parenthood and others.

The great-grandson of a member of the 1857 Oregon Constitutional Convention, Packwood established himself as a social moderate and fiscal conservative who often voted across party lines. He considered running for president in 1980.

Elected to the Senate in 1968, Packwood was best known as the leading Republican advocate of abortion rights and was widely admired by women’s groups throughout the country until the Senate Ethics Committee launched an investigation into the allegations of sexual and official misconduct in 1993.

More than two dozen women, former employees and acquaintances, accused him of making unwanted or uninvited sexual advances.

The allegations remained the target of an ethics probe that widened to include other alleged acts of official misconduct. He resigned in September 1995, then went to start a lucrative lobbying business in Washington.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, who replaced Packwood in 1996, said while he should be praised for his record on abortion rights and tax reform, how he treated women overshadows it all.

“His horrible history as documented in his own diaries will forever overshadow that public record. Simply put, historians’ first line about Bob Packwood must include those women who he abused and assaulted for years and years,” Wyden said in a statement.

As chairman and then ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee, Packwood was a master of cutting deals and forging compromises needed to pass tax legislation through Congress. He was most proud of the lead role he played in a sweeping tax reform of 1986 that lowered the top income tax bracket and eliminated many itemized deductions.