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Review: Matilda the Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester

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Review: Matilda the Musical, Palace Theatre, Manchester

For a start, this RSC production is spectacular to look at. The bright colours simply pop from the stage. Rob Howell’s set design is innovative, imaginative and enthralling – rather like the production itself.

Based on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book, it’s the story of a very special little girl with a deep love of books who stands up for what is right, aided by a few magical powers.

Matilda the Musical

There’s something subversive about Matilda which is particularly compelling. For a start, the bulk of the cast are children. They are so well drilled, so confident and so talented that you forget their age and diminutive stature.

Then there are the storylines. This is no gentle fairytale. In typical Roald Dahl fashion it’s dark, very dark in places. It’s cheeky, boisterous and then heartbreakingly sad, often within the same scene.

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At its heart are the songs by Tim Minchin who brings a level of wordplay not often experienced in musical theatre. He often turns the concept of the musical on itself, that undercurrent of gentle anarchy helps power the whole piece.

Mollie Hutton as Matilda

Our heroine is Matilda, on press night played by the delightful Mollie Hutton, one of four young actresses tasked with this massive role. She turns to the world of literature to escape her parents who are almost cartoon-like in their awfulness.

Adam Stafford is a flash talking, wide-boy car salesman in an outlandish check suit. He wanted a boy so has not time for the little gem in the family.

Rebecca Thornhill as Mrs Wormold is a truly dreadful creature, obsessed with her looks and winning Latin American dancing competitions with her snake-hipped partner Rudolpho, she can’t see the point of reading and along with hubby believes that TV is the answer to everything. It’s a beautifully observed cameo role.

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If Matilda is the heroine of the piece, her arch nemesis is Miss Trunchbull the headmistress of a school which has clearly never been visited by Ofsted.

Richard Hurst as Miss Trunchbull in Matilda The Musical

Richard Hurst as the former hammer throwing champion is one the highlights of the show. His Trunchbull is menacing and genuinely terrifying at time. He towers over the young charges in his care. It would be easy to turn Trunchbull into a panto dame-like figure but he resists that temptation. Instead Trunchbull is obsessed, violent and clearly unhinged. He thinks nothing of picking a pupil up by the pigtails and throwing her out of the window or force feeding chocolate cake to one boy – with disastrous consequences.

Tessa Kadler as Miss Honey, the teacher who realises that Matilda is extraordinary, brings just the right amount of sweetness to the role without threatening anyone with diabetes. Her song My House is a bit of a showstopper.

Mollie Hutton as Matilda was a delight. At the centre of everything it’s a big ask for anyone but she was feisty and forlorn in equal measure. At time it was a little difficult to hear everything she sang but that was a minor point.

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Matilda the Musical

This is a big musical. The set pieces are spectacular such as the scene on some swings which sees pupils fly over the orchestra; or a climbing frame being built out of letter blocks with such precise timing it’s like watching a computer game unfold in front of you.

It is quite a long show which is worth noting.

But Matilda is a musical with real heart and a strong message. Does it work? Put it this way, there were hundreds of young theatregoers in on press night and at times you could hear a pin drop and at others the cheers were deafening; they bought into the show from the outset and loved every minute of it. Must say I have to agree.

Matilda the Musical is at the Palace Theatre, Manchester, until Saturday, April 25. Details from www.atgtickets.com

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Jurgen Klopp: Mohamed Salah could play for six or more seven years

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Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp (left) embraces Mohamed Salah (right) after a Chamoions League match

Klopp and Salah together won the Premier League, Champions League, the FA Cup, two League Cups, Uefa Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup.

“He knows this was the perfect club for him and he was the perfect player for us,” said Klopp.

“Mo and I had big dreams, but we didn’t dare to dream that big. I’m not sure we can appreciate it to the right extent – that will happen soon now. I wish him the best of luck because he deserves it.

“The numbers he produced and the standards he set, some of them, if not all, will stay unmatched in this modern Premier League era, definitely, because it’s ridiculous to do that, and to do it for one club more or less.”

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Klopp, 58, added Salah is “one of the best” professionals and people he has met.

He said: “We texted the other day and we had our arguments, but it was always for the right reasons. It’s always fine, especially now looking back, it’s more than fine. And we are both really happy about being part of that incredible journey.”

Asked whether it was the right time for Liverpool and Salah to part ways, with the winger still having a year left on his contract, Klopp said it was a “fair deal”.

“It’s not about me to make that decision but I think it’s right that there’s an agreement,” said the German.

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“I really think the whole relationship was a fair deal. An exceptional player, exceptional numbers, and he earned some money, of course.

“And now he can go wherever he wants and the club will have to find and will find other players, and that’s absolutely OK.

“After all these years there should be no bad sentiment at all and as far as I’m concerned I can’t see any.”

Liverpool Legends play Borussia Dortmund Legends in the annual LFC Foundation charity match at Anfield on Saturday, with Klopp part of the hosts’ management team.

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Mum of child killed getting off school bus calls on Minister to go “full pelt” to get legislation passed

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Belfast Live

The consultation on overtaking and passing buses explores whether clearer, more targeted rules on driver behaviour around buses could help reduce risk, particularly at the point when children are getting on and off buses.

The mother of a child who was killed after getting off her school bus has called on the Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, to go “full pelt” in order to get new road safety legislation passed before next year’s election.

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Stella McGinn, whose daughter Caitlin-Rose McMullan was killed just over a year ago, was speaking to Belfast Live as Minister Kimmins launched a consultation on the issue on Thursday.

Caitlin-Rose had been a pupil at St Pius X College in Magherafelt. She was struck by a vehicle on Hillhead Road in Castledawson after she got off the school bus on her way home on 5 March 2025.

“I thought as a grieving parent, obviously, just buried my daughter and speaking out so early on, a week after she had passed away, that change would be put in place sooner,” she said.

“To go to Stormont last June and to hear that legislation was going to be passed, and yet we’re only in the consultation now. Stormont’s obviously going to stop in July, when they go into recess for the summer and start again in September.”

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Stella said that she understands that the Minister wants to get the legislation passed this mandate.

“The country needs to get behind it, and I do think this is something that the Minister does want, but she needs to be full pelt ahead now because if it’s not done, then we’re into a new election next year.

“What I would like to say is, especially to grieving parents like myself, speak out, give your views on this, because the question I would have had every day is what if, what if, what if this was done? This is our chance now. The public needs to get behind it. Grieving parents need to get behind it. I know it’s going to be very difficult for us grieving parents, but this is what we need. We need change for the country, and we need to get it right.”

The Safer Journeys to School: Consultation on overtaking and passing buses explores whether clearer, more targeted rules on driver behaviour around buses could help reduce risk, particularly at the point when children are getting on and off buses.

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The consultation sets out a preferred proposal, alongside a range of options for further development, focused on improving safety for children and other vulnerable passengers when they are boarding or alighting from buses, and immediately afterwards, when risk can be heightened.

Launching the consultation, Minister Kimmins said: “Sadly, in recent years, tragic incidents involving children at bus stops have highlighted the risks that can arise when passengers are getting on or off buses. These moments present a period of particular vulnerability, especially where children may need to cross the road and where traffic speed, visibility or road layout increase the potential for harm.

“There are two parts to our approach. The first sets out a legislative proposal to prohibit overtaking a stationary bus in clearly defined dangerous circumstances, focused on situations where passengers may be exposed to harm. The second part presents a number of options for further development designed to mitigate the risks associated with vehicles passing buses during boarding and alighting, including from the opposite direction.

“I will also bring forward a comprehensive package of measures focusing on education, engineering and enforcement to ensure children are safe travelling to and from school.

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“Road safety is a high priority for me. I will continue to do all that I can to keep children and everyone safe on our roads. I am asking drivers to be aware of when children may be getting on and off buses, or crossing the road and ask you to slow down, be prepared to stop, and be especially vigilant when approaching or passing a bus.

“This is an important day and an important step forward to prohibit overtaking buses to protect our children. I want to commend the strength and determination of the parents who have lost children this way, who have campaigned for this.

“This is an important consultation. Please give us your views.”

The consultation opens today and closes on 21 May 2026. More details here.

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Police issues new Lucy Letby statement in major update

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Daily Record

Lucy Letby’s conviction is being reviewed by the Criminal Cases Review Commission, after judges rejected the baby murderer’s bids to challenge her several convictions

The police force that investigated Lucy Letby has hit back at those “attempting to destroy reputations” after a former Tory cabinet minister made claims about officers.

MP Sir David Davis had sensationally claimed detectives ignored signs the medical unit Letby worked in was failing and “cherrypicked” statistics to use against her before calling for a retrial on her convictions for murder and attempted murder during a parliamentary debate in the House of Commons on Thursday.

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Cheshire Constabulary today released a statement in response and maintained it remains “confident in the integrity of the investigation”. The statement said: “Cheshire Constabulary strongly refutes all the points made during the adjournment debate. It implied impropriety on the part of Cheshire Constabulary where none whatsoever has been established, reports The Mirror.

“We remain confident in the integrity of the investigation, the conduct of the prosecution, and the decisions reached by the courts. Over the past two years, the force has come under constant criticism and has been intensely scrutinised and subject to unpleasant opinion from a core group of individuals who appear to pride themselves on spreading misinformation, making baseless claims and attempting to destroy reputations.

“While scrutiny of policing is legitimate and welcome, it is essential that such scrutiny is grounded in fact and does not inadvertently cut across due process, ongoing legal considerations, or the independence of the judiciary. The constant noise surrounding this case, inaccurate or partial information being presented as fact and attempts to hijack the perceived narrative risk undermining public confidence not only in this case, but in the wider criminal justice system.”

Letby, 36, from Hereford, is serving 15 whole-life orders after being convicted of murdering seven infants and attempting to murder seven others between June 2015 and June 2016. The babies were attacked by various means while Letby worked as a nurse on the neonatal unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

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Sir David had told fellow MPs he would write to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to call for a review into the conduct of the force, having previously branded the case “one of the major injustices of modern times”. The former Brexit Secretary also called for the force to release a series of documents, including investigators’ policy books and decision books, records of identified lines of inquiry and minutes from meetings.

He added the case had been reviewed privately by ex-Assistant Chief Constable Dr Steve Watts and ex-Det Supt Stuart Clifton, who believed Letby guilty until they examined “the hard facts”. And he told MPs both men, who helped him analyse the case, now believe her to be the victim of a “serious miscarriage of justice”.

Letby’s conviction is separately being reviewed by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC), after judges rejected Letby’s bids to challenge her convictions. The case was the focus of a high-profile Netflix documentary last month, which included footage of her being interviewed by detectives.

She was seen telling them she felt “it was all spiralling out of control” when they quizzed her about the babies’ murders. Officers had found notes she wrote then stashed in a black bin liner at home which read: “Murderer”, “Murder”, “I am evil”, “I did this”, “I killed them” and “I am a horrible evil person”. Letby said she wrote them as “everything had got on top of me”.

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The scribblings were used during her trial by the prosecution, who claimed they were a form of confession. Her defence said she was told to write down her feelings and her faults as a form of therapy after being given counselling at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

Letby also wrote: “Not good enough”, “Why me?”, “I haven’t done anything wrong”. After her arrest she said “no comment” to many of the cops’ questions, but did open up when she was quizzed about the notes. She said: “I just wrote it because everything had got on top of me.

“It was when I found out I’d been removed from the unit. I felt like they were blaming my practice. That I might have hurt [the babies] without knowing… I was blaming myself, but not because I’d done anything – because of the way people were making me feel.

“I felt like I’d only done my best for those babies and then people were trying to say my practice wasn’t good… I just couldn’t cope with it. I did just not wanna be here any more. I felt it was all spiralling out of control. I just didn’t know how to feel about it.”

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The programme also told how Letby emailed officers in charge of the investigation to say: “I am happy to be contacted if you wish to discuss anything.” But she was less forthcoming in the interviews themselves. When told 887 babies had been treated at the neonatal unit since she left and none had died or deteriorated, she replied: “No comment.”

Cheshire Constabulary today added: “Public confidence is best served by evidence-based discussion and responsible commentary – not ill-informed personal opinions and inaccurate details. We are committed to victim-focused justice, public confidence and the rule of law. Our thoughts remain with the families of the babies, who have always been at the heart of this case.”

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Tommy Fury to fight ‘World’s Strongest Man’ in blockbuster Manchester return to boxing

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Manchester Evening News

Tommy Fury will return to the ring after almost a year since his last fight.

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Tommy Fury will return to the ring after almost a year since his last fight, taking on former world’s strongest man, Eddie Hall. The fight is set to take place at the AO Arena on June 13 as part of the latest Misfits card, broadcast live on DAZN.

Fury, 26, holds an unblemished 11-0 professional record and is the younger half-brother of two-time World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury.

He has notched up wins against KSI and Jake Paul, with his latest victory coming against Kenan Hanjalic last May. Yet, he has never faced an opponent quite as formidable as Hall.

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The former champion of the prestigious World’s Strongest Man competition, has one professional bout under his belt – a defeat to Icelander Hafthor Bjornsson, known for playing The Mountain in Game of Thrones, in 2022.

Hall will be aiming to secure his first victory – and could enter the bout with a staggering ten stone weight advantage over Fury.

When Fury last fought, he weighed in at just under 90kg. In contrast, Hall has tipped the scales at more than double that during his strongman days and trimmed down to 152kg for an MMA contest last year.

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Hall was spotted at Darren Till’s Gorilla Promotions in Birmingham on Sunday, where he teased the upcoming announcement.

“I’ve got a fight coming up on June 13 in Manchester that’ll be announced very, very soon,” he said. “I want to get in there, of course [as soon as possible].

“I’ve got a big fight coming up. It will be on Misfits… I’ve been told the Dillon Danis fight will happen before the end of the year, so let’s make it happen.”

As for Fury, he beat Kenan Hanjalic by unanimous decision in Budapest back in May 2025, and had been in line to fight former UFC star Darren Till before the fight collapsed.

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England vs Uruguay LIVE: Three big questions for Tuchel’s experimental team selection in Wembley friendly

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England vs Uruguay LIVE: Three big questions for Tuchel’s experimental team selection in Wembley friendly

Tuchel on calling up Harry Maguire

Harry Maguire is back in the England fold after impressing for Manchester United under interim boss Michael Carrick.

“Harry simply deserves it,” Tuchel said when asked why he was called up.

“He has, especially since Michael Carrick took over, had very, very good performances and fantastic results and is a key figure in the Man United squad who is now in third place and on a very good run of form.

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“He’s a big reason for that, so he deserves to be with us. It’s interesting also for me to get to know him in person and to see him in training and see him within the group.

“He has outstanding qualities on set-pieces, so I’m happy that he found his way back to us.”

Mike Jones27 March 2026 18:30

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Harry Maguire on Tuchel’s England phone call, Carrick’s future and his one problem with Amorim

Butterflies fluttered. Maguire hadn’t played for England for nearly two years, since he appeared in a Nations League game against Ireland in 2024.

Mike Jones27 March 2026 18:24

Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

Tuchel has three No 9s in his group: an intriguing element is that Ollie Watkins, often Harry Kane’s understudy, is not one of them.

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If he remains out in the cold, it could seem a straight shootout between the two Dominics, Solanke and Calvert-Lewin, for the back-up role; it is harder to see both being chosen.

There are other ways of finding another centre-forward: Phil Foden did well as a false nine against Serbia in November, Jarrod Bowen sometimes leads the line for West Ham, Anthony Gordon is now Newcastle’s central figure, and Marcus Rashford has played more games than any as the spearhead of a side.

Gareth Southgate took three centre-forwards to Euro 2024 – though Ivan Toney’s selection was partly for his penalty-taking. Tuchel is more likely to go with two and to use one of his extra three picks elsewhere.

Richard Jolly27 March 2026 18:18

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Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

Of course, Eberechi Eze could be that fifth winger. If Tuchel only takes four, difficult decisions beckon.

On the left, two of his favourites have been Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford, each offering similar pace, but Eze can come infield more; Harvey Barnes’s addition to the group only complicates the equation.

On the right, he has so far avoided making a definitive decision as to whether Noni Madueke or Jarrod Bowen is Bukayo Saka’s immediate deputy.

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Richard Jolly27 March 2026 18:12

Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

It has looked a likely scenario, simply because of the depth of talent in the position. As it is, Tuchel may still have to omit a supposedly generational talent, in either Phil Foden or Cole Palmer, because Morgan Rogers and Bellingham – despite being excluded from the squad in October – seem shoo-ins.

It would nevertheless appear imbalanced if Tuchel took four No 10s. The saving grace is that each is versatile: while Tuchel seems to want game-stretching width on the flanks, which is not Palmer’s forte, he can play off the right. Foden was used in attack in November. Eberechi Eze has scored for England as a left-winger. Morgan Gibbs-White, only really a No 10, has faded from the picture.

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Richard Jolly27 March 2026 18:06

Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

Five central midfielders?

Another area where it had looked like Tuchel would be content with a quartet. There are other ways of bolstering the contingent in the centre of the pitch: if Jude Bellingham is classed as a No 10, he can nevertheless operate in a deeper role, while Nico O’Reilly seems likely to travel as a left-back, but spent his youth in midfield, and has played there at times in 2026.

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But the call-up of James Garner offers another dimension and a different way of configuring his squad. Garner is a central midfielder by preference but has flourished for David Moyes in a series of roles. Take him to the World Cup as the fifth midfielder and the 25-year-old could double up as the third right-back. Or if Tuchel took both Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton, he may have five out-and-out central midfielders.

Richard Jolly27 March 2026 18:00

Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

Reece James had spent longer on the sidelines than John Stones in recent seasons, but, while he sits out the current squad, he has made 36 appearances this season.

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Before the Chelsea captain was hurt, the sense was that Tuchel was likelier to take four full-backs, in part because conceivably it still gives him three choices on either flank.

Tino Livramento and Djed Spence can play on both sides of the back four, while he has used two centre-backs – in Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah – at right-back, plus Dan Burn can be the world’s tallest left-back.

It may count against Trent Alexander-Arnold that, with James cemented as the first-choice right-back, Tuchel seems to prefer versatility to a second specialist.

Richard Jolly27 March 2026 17:54

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Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup

The logic of it may depend upon his best central defender. Because John Stones has played so little football for Manchester City, with no Premier League start since October, it would be a risk to take him as one of just four centre-backs, despite the excellent fitness records of Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi.

Selecting five could also aid the chances of the recalled Harry Maguire, who has spent spells on the sidelines himself in recent years.

Few of Tuchel’s full-backs are plausible centre-back options: only the late addition Ben White and Reece James, his first-choice right-back, so that may be an added reason to go with five specialists in the middle.

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Richard Jolly27 March 2026 17:48

James Garner hopes to replicate under-21 success with England senior squad

James Garner is dreaming of winning the World Cup with England after receiving his maiden call-up to the senior squad.

The Everton midfielder has the chance to book his ticket to North America after he was named in Thomas Tuchel’s extended group for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.

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Mike Jones27 March 2026 17:42

Tuchel on calling up James Garner

Everton midfielder, James Garner, earned his first call up to the England team for this camp and will work with Thomas Tuchel for the first time.

Of Garner’s abilities, Tuchel said: “James Garner just has a fantastic season. He’s always available for Everton.

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“He plays in multiple positions – right defender, left defender, six, eight. He’s fast, he has a clean foot and takes all the set pieces. I think he deserves it.

“He’s a bit of an underrated player. I saw him many times now live and convinced about his quality and his character and want to see how he does in camp.”

(The FA via Getty Images)

Mike Jones27 March 2026 17:36

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Paedophile asked nine-year-old to be his ‘boyfriend’

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Wales Online

Thomas Serpell, 28, told the child he wanted to ‘see him naked’ then later told his victim to delete the messages between them and not to tell his mother

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A paedophile sent sexualised messages to a nine-year-old and asked him to be his boyfriend. He later told his victim to delete the messages and not to tell his mother about them, which allowed him to conceal what he had done.

Thomas Serpell, 28, sent a series of text messages to his victim which was “sexual and disturbed”. He asked the boy to “be his boyfriend” and asked him to kiss him, as well as asking him if he could see him naked.

A sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday heard the victim was left “confused and comfortable” by the messages. Don’t miss a court report by signing up to our crime newsletter here.

There were further messages where the defendant asked the boy not to tell his mother about the messages and to delete them, which the boy did.

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He later told the boy the messages were a “joke”.

But when the matter was reported to the police, Serpell denied any messages between him and the victim had been sent.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Paul Hobson said: “You only have to think how frightening and disturbing this episode must have been for that child.

“The impact on him has been significant.”

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In a victim personal statement read to the court by prosecutor Laurence Jones, the boy said he was scared to go out alone and the impact on him had left struggling to eat and sleep.

He has become more isolated, with only a small circle of friends and said at times he “feels he doesn’t want to be here anymore.

There have been concerns about the boy self harming.

Serpell, of Regent Street, Aberaman, Aberdare, later pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual communication with a child.

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The court heard he was of previous good character.

In mitigation, Nick Gedge said his client has epilepsy and told the court the offence took place shortly after the defendant had suffered a seizure.

The barrister said: “He knows what he did was wrong and expresses remorse and regret about what happened.”

Mr Gedge said his client was bullied in school and by his father because of his sexuality.

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Judge Hobson said: “You claim you sent these messages after coming out of an epileptic seizure. I do not accept your illness had an impact on your behaviour or your recollection of what you did…

“Epilepsy does not cause people to sexually offend againt children, you have sought to minimise your behaviour.”

Serpell was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.

The defendant was also made subject to a restraining order, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and sex offender notification requirements, each to run for 10 years.

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North Yorkshire set to host Tour of Britain stages

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North Yorkshire set to host Tour of Britain stages

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has approved a plan to partner with British Cycling to bring the race to the county.

The proposal would see £350,000 of mayoral investment funding used to secure the event, with additional costs of up to £400,000 shared on a 50/50 basis with North Yorkshire Council to cover road closures and event management.

The Tour of Britain is one of the world’s leading cycling competitions, attracting elite international teams and broadcast to more than 100 countries.

Organisers say each stage can generate between £2m and £12m  for the local economy.

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Under the proposals, North Yorkshire would host a full stage of the men’s race in 2026, with a further stage planned for 2027.

Crowds Greet The Tour De Yorkshire In Thirsk

While the final route is yet to be decided, organisers have indicated a preference for both the start and finish to take place within North Yorkshire rather than York, due to the logistical challenges of staging the event in a city environment.

The route is also expected to include a hill stage.

Leaders say hosting the event would support wider ambitions to promote active travel, boost tourism and attract inward investment to the region.

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The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, welcomed the proposal at a combined authority meeting at County Hall in Northallerton today (FRIDAY).

He said: “Many people have positive memories of the Tour de France coming through in 2014.

“The impact on the visitor economy over the period should be incredible.

“We need to make sure we have that real legacy after as well, so it’s not just a day event, it’s how we can make the most of it going forward.”

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North Yorkshire Council leader, Councillor Carl Les, said he supported the idea in principle.

“North Yorkshire’s been hosting cycle races since the Grand Depart. People are still talking about the way that public took to it.

“Happy to support it but inevitably we do need to have discussions about the route because it’s got to be right for the cyclists but it’s also got to be right for the community that’s hosting it.”

The county hosted the 2014 Tour de France Grand Départ, with the Tour de Yorkshire held from 2015 to 2019.

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World’s tallest building hit by lightning as Dubai suffers flooding after heavy storms | World News

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The Burj Khalifa was hit by lightning and flooding in Dubai. Pic: Dubai Media Office/AP

Dubai has been hit by overnight flooding after “intense downpours” hit several cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), prompting officials to issue warnings.

Dramatic pictures were posted online by the Dubai Media Office and others of lightning striking the 829m/2,722ft Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Authorities in the UAE activated emergency measures and issued safety alerts across the country, Gulf News said.

Iran war latest – ‘Reckless’ strikes condemned

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Vehicles are stuck on a flooded Dubai street after heavy rains. Pic: AP

“Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds” swept across large parts of the UAE from Thursday into early Friday.

An unstable weather system caused “lightning, booming thunder and intense downpours in several cities”, as well as “dust-raising winds and reduced visibility”, the outlet said.

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Dubai’s police force said on X its efforts had intensified, with specialised teams helping make roads safe so as to “keep traffic moving smoothly”.

Police, pumping crews and recovery vehicles were out before dawn to try to clear the water and deal with the aftermath of the unusual conditions, AOL said.

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Other videos showed people walking through standing water in Sharjah, where passengers planning to use the airport were advised check the latest information, as weather conditions may affect flights.

Travellers should contact their airlines directly before heading to the airport.

On Thursday, the office issued a warning of “unstable conditions” until Friday morning, predicting rain of “varying intensity, at times accompanied by lightning and thunder”, plus “occasionally strong” winds and reduced visibilty from dust and sand it raised.

Since the beginning of the US-Israeli war with Iran, Dubai has come under frequent attacks from Iranian missiles and drones, with strikes on the airport and other targets.

Authorities did not give details of what, if any, damage the weather had caused, or of any deaths or injuries.

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Jurgen Klopp reveals Mo Salah text exchange and offers Liverpool advice on replacing him

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Daily Mirror

Mo Salah is due to leave Liverpool at the end of the season and his former boss Jurgen Klopp has given an honest take on the Egyptian bringing to an end his glittering spell at Anfield

Jurgen Klopp texted ‘irreplaceable’ Mo Salah straight after he found out that he would be leaving Anfield. The Egyptian winger confirmed earlier this week that he would be departing Merseyside in the summer, despite having a year left on his contract.

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Salah, 33, enjoyed his best football under former Liverpool boss Klopp. And with the German set to return to Merseyside for a legends game against Borussia Dortmund this week, he has revealed that he got in touch with his former star once the announcement was made.

“I text with players,” Klopp said. “Less so in not so good times, let me say it that way! ‘Keep your head up’ or whatever doesn’t go down particularly well!

“It’s exactly like that. I heard that he was going to leave. Then I saw the video. I thought I will call him or text him or whatever. I didn’t know whether I would reach him.

“We have the same physio, by the way. I loan him my physio! Chris Rohrbeck is treating my hip. Anyway, I had to process a little bit to think what it means that Mo goes.

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“I am already in a different perspective because I watch from the outside. I have this distance if you want. So I text him what I thought in that moment. I can sum it up: I am really happy and proud that I was part of the whole journey.”

Liverpool now have a huge task on their hands in replacing Salah’s contributions. The former Roma star has scored 255 goals for the club since arriving from the Italian side.

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And Klopp believes the Reds have an impossible job in finding Salah’s successor. He added: “This specific kind of player is irreplaceable. That’s always how it is.

“There will be a void that somebody will fill. It’s always in our minds how much time, how much space – yeah, how much time do we give to whoever is going to play there in whatever system the manager will play?

“But the specific player, Mo Salah? I’m not sure there is even another one existing out there. There are other people playing on that wing with different strengths, different qualities, but it is the numbers he produces – they are unmatched from that position.

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“I don’t know if there was ever any player who had that (from there). You tell him he is a winger or a striker he says: ‘No, no, no I am a winger’. The numbers for a winger [are] ridiculous. For a striker, they are pretty much unmatched. That’s how it is.

“So, if it is impossible, why should you try? I’m not in the role to advise anyone. But just bring players in and play the kind of football which can be successful. That is pretty much everything.

“We lost Sadio Mane. We could sing a song about him. What a player he was! Bobby Firmino – Oh. My. God. On the day Gini (Georginio Wijnaldum) went, probably none of you thought: ‘That’s a big miss’, until he was not there anymore and then you thought: ‘Oh! He was the combination of technique, power, tactical discipline and all these kinds of things’.

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“Then Hendo (Jordan Henderson) left. Some thought: ‘Good! It’s time!’ Milly (James Milner) went and did all these kind of things. That’s just how it is. But other players came in: Macca (Alexis Mac Allister), Ryan (Gravenberch), Dom (Dominik Szoboszlai). That’s how it is. Don’t try to chase the shadows. Find a new way and play.”

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England’s 2026 World Cup kits

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From Superdry to Primark – here’s 22 items a shopping expert is buying

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From Superdry to Primark - here's 22 items a shopping expert is buying
A little of this, and so much of that! (Picture: Metro/Getty)

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Even though this week has served us all four seasons before lunchtime (classic Britain), nothing is stopping me from stomping down the high street or doom‑scrolling my way through the internet for the best high‑street finds. Rain? Sunshine? A rogue blizzard? I simply don’t know her.

Yes, I’m back again (soz, but also… not soz) with another edition of Trend Trove – and yes, I’m still deep in my Harry Styles album era. Again…

The sunshine did briefly grace us with her presence, and the moment she peeked out, pub gardens started whispering our names at Metro HQ. Garnier’s spray SPF immediately took up permanent residency on our desks and in our handbags. And honestly? That tiny weather window has us thinking about one thing and one thing only: festival season.

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Black and white image of band members
We’re SO ready for this one! (Picture: Metro/AlanGelati)

Speaking of which – the countdown to Coachella has officially begun, but we’re also gearing up for the UK’s own big moments… starting with BST Hyde Park. And in iconic news, Duran Duran have just been announced as the next headliner for American Express presents BST Hyde Park 2026. They’re returning to the Great Oak Stage on July 5, with Scissor Sisters joining as special guests. Imagine the sheer camp, the hits, the choreo, the nostalgia. Fresh off Vegas residencies, international shows and sold‑out tours, Duran Duran are coming home – and they’re bringing brand‑new 2026 music with them. Tickets hit general sale April 1, 10am, and you absolutely know they’re going to vanish instantly.

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Male djing
We cannot wait to welcome back Tiësto. (Picture: Metro/Tiesto)

And while we’re already screaming into the void about music news – Tiësto is making his first major return to London in eight years, taking over Silverworks Island on July 12. He’s going back to his early‑era sound (prepare for goosebumps), diving into deep cuts and classics across his insane catalogue. Forty million albums sold, billions of streams, a GRAMMY… the resume writes itself. Silverworks Island is about to have its main character moment.

Not into music? Fine. Because the Taste of London countdown is also officially on. Returning to Regent’s Park June 17-21, it’s five sunshine-soaked days of restaurant pop-ups, live demos, fire‑cooking wizardry and over 160 artisan producers ready to feed you silly. This year features cult newcomers like Harry’s, Hakkasan and Ixchel, plus faves such as Los Mochis, and star demos from Big Zuu, Melissa Thompson and Natty Can Cook. You can sip St‑Germain spritzes, hop aboard a Miraval yacht in VIP (casual), and dive into sustainability‑focused drinks sessions. And new for 2026? Taste of the City – a week of one-off dining events across London, kicking off with a rooftop Fire Feast at JOIA in May. Basically: summer = sorted.

Child wears bright tshirt and shorts
This is great news for parents! (Picture: Metro/M&S)

Parents, don’t think I forgot about you. M&S is cutting prices across 400+ kids’ clothing essentials – meaning spring wardrobe refreshes no longer need a mortgage. Tees from £3.50, dresses from £4, and everything backed with their 12-month quality guarantee. These are the pieces built to survive playground chaos, spaghetti stains, and at least three hand‑me‑downs. Plus, M&S continues to support parents via The Parent Hood, the UK’s fastest‑growing baby club, with rewards, advice and 10% off for new members. Love.

Female wears white slogn tshirt
Work outs always require coffee! (Picture: Metro/TALA)

TALA has teamed up with Kiss the Hippo on a limited‑edition graphic tee, launching March 19 alongside a special ‘TALA Hojicha Cappuccino’ available exclusively at the coffee brand’s Soho café. The collab lands just in time for marathon season, pairing feel‑good merch with a functional, pre‑ and post‑race brew. TALA’s bestselling SkinLuxe also returns with improved performance and fresh colourways, perfect for everything from training runs to your post‑race coffee stop.

Red hair brush
Our beauty expert’s LOVE this brush too! (Picture: Metro/Remi Cachet)

Over in the beauty world, Remi Cachet is celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King’s Trust with a limited‑edition red Blow Dry Brush raising funds for the Change a Girl’s Life campaign. Founder Victoria Lynch received a small but life‑changing Prince’s Trust loan back in 2003 – and now she’s leading the UK’s top luxury hair extensions brand and has just earned B Corp certification. With 20% of each brush going directly to supporting young women facing barriers, it’s the kind of beauty purchase that looks good and does good.

Now for the part you’re really here for: the shopping. As always, I’ve been unleashed into the wilderness (aka the high street) to find the pieces you’re going to fall hard for.

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And let me tell you: my hands have been BUSY.

From the cutest Gail’s tote bag, to Terry De Havilland metallic sneakers that will perk up even the plainest outfit, to a July suitcase with built‑in tracking (no more airport panic sweats) – plus homeware, fashion, beauty and accessories you’ll instantly want in your basket… I’ve gathered the absolute crème de la crème.

Get ready to scroll, add‑to‑cart and justify every purchase with ‘it’s basically spring cleaning’.

Lilac suitcase

July Carry On With CaseSafe

Luggage hasn’t changed much in decades – lighter here, stronger there – until now.

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July has created the first suitcase with fully built‑in tracking tech, marking a new era of smarter travel.

Designed to be virtually un‑losable, the tracking is seamlessly integrated into the case itself, so there are no tags to attach, no extra gadgets to faff with – just effortless, always‑on peace of mind wherever you fly.

Perfect for a 5–7 day trip, the suitcase offers room for 6–8 outfits, making it the ideal week‑away companion.

Smart, sleek and stress‑free: this is the future of travel, packed into a carry‑on.

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Buy Now for £275

Pale orange body mist

The Body Shop Butter Me Up Fragrance Mist

Butter Me Up is a cosy, feel‑good perfume mist that smells like warm buttery popcorn, creamy milk and roasted cashews – the ultimate sweet, comforting scent to wrap yourself in.

Buy Now for £12

Cream floral sandals

KG Kurt Geiger Fairy Shoes

This pair of Fairy heels from our fave Kurt Geiger come in a bone‑tone leather alternative and are finished with delicate floral embroidery across the upper shoe.

Buy Now for £149

Tube of lip balm

Jones Road Lip Recharge

Lip Recharge is a hardworking lip treatment that instantly smooths, hydrates and refreshes thanks to a blend of antioxidants, moisture‑boosting peptides and a cooling metal applicator.

Available in nine sheer, universally flattering shades, it gives lips a hit of nourishment with a subtle tint and shine – perfect for everyday swipe‑and‑go wear.

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Buy Now for £24

Colourful tote bags with slogan across

Gail’s Hot Cross Bun Tote Bag

GAIL’s has launched a limited‑edition Hot Cross Bun Tote Bag for spring, embroidered with a cute hot cross bun design and available in four pastel shades.

Made from regenerative organic cotton in partnership with social enterprise Re‑Wrap, the £15 tote is available both online and in GAIL’s bakeries.

They’ve landed just in time for Easter, celebrating the return of the bakery’s seasonal Hot Cross Buns.

Buy Now for £15

Female wears stripe sweater

Superdry Athletic Essentials Flag Embroidered Sweatshirt

This Athletic Essentials Flag Embroidered Sweatshirt is an easy win for your cosy rotation, thanks to its oversized fit and relaxed dropped sleeves.

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The simple silhouette keeps things effortless, while the embroidered detailing adds a subtle hit of personality. A comfy, everyday staple with just the right amount of style.

Buy Now for £44.99

Le Specs Lucia Tortoiseshell Sunglasses

Le Specs Lucia Tortoiseshell Sunglasses

The ALÉMAIS x Le Specs Luxe collaboration delivers a statement pair of shades in the LUCIA cat‑eye silhouette.

With bold angular lines, a sharp upswept shape and a flat browline, they bring a confident, sculptural edge to any look.

Finished with thick temples and exaggerated outer corners, the design creates a naturally lifted, ultra‑directional finish.

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Buy Now for £180

Female wears Nobody's Child Beige High Waisted Trousers

Nobody’s Child Beige High Waisted Trousers

The Nobody’s Child beige High Waisted Trousers are a pure‑cotton, wide‑leg style cut to sit high on the waist, with soft pleats, side pockets and turn‑up hems for an easy, structured look.

Finished with belt loops and a concealed hook‑and‑bar fastening, they’re designed for relaxed everyday wear, with the brand recommending your usual size.

Buy Now for £75

Stuffed bunny rabbit with printed egg

Jojo Maman Bebe Pink Bella Bunny Soft Toy Plushie in Egg

This sweet Easter surprise is perfect for any egg hunt – crack open the pastel floral egg to reveal a tiny, soft Bella Bunny plush hiding inside.

With a pink gingham lining and a huggable, pocket‑sized bunny made for little hands, it’s a cute alternative to a chocolate egg and a keepsake they’ll love long after the weekend is over.

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Ideal for baskets, hunt prizes or gifting, it encourages gentle, imaginative play and is suitable from birth.

Buy Now for £18

Pale blue knitted cardigan

Primark By Coleen Textured Knit Short Sleeve Cardigan

Primark’s By Coleen Textured Knit Short Sleeve Cardigan is a polished everyday layer, made from a soft cotton‑rich knit with a subtle textured finish.

The V‑neck silhouette and short sleeves keep it light and easy to style, while the molten‑effect metal buttons give it a more elevated feel.

Designed in a regular fit, it’s available in classic shades like blue and ecru and sits neatly over denim, trousers or skirts for a simple, put‑together look.

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Buy Now for £16

Biscuit cushion

Next Natural 3D Shaped Biscuit Cushion

The Next Natural 3D Shaped Biscuit Cushion is a fun, novelty home accessory designed to look like a classic biscuit, made entirely from recycled polyester for a soft, plush feel.

Measuring 15cm x 32cm x 50cm, it’s a cute statement piece for a sofa or bed, and is easy to maintain with sponge‑clean care.

Buy Now for £20

Flowers in a jar with tin of biscuits

M&S Easter Rose & Hyacinth Bouquet with Scrummy Munch

Bring a burst of spring indoors with this chic Easter bouquet, filled with sunny yellow roses, fragrant white hyacinths and ruffled white parrot tulips.

The mix of warm tones and soft textures gives it an effortlessly seasonal feel, and it even comes with a Scrummy Munch treat for an extra‑sweet touch.

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Perfect as a gift or a centrepiece for your long‑weekend table, with colours varying slightly as the season unfolds.

Buy Now for £45

Red and white stripe jacket

Oliver Bonas Red & Ecru Striped Cropped Denim Jacket

This Oliver Bonas red‑and‑ecru striped denim jacket is the statement layer your spring wardrobe has been waiting for.

Cut with a collarless neckline and a cropped silhouette, it features pleated shoulders, brass‑toned buttons and two chest pockets for that laid‑back, vintage‑meets‑modern feel.

Throw it over your everyday outfits for an instant lift, or go all in and pair it with the matching striped jeans for a double‑denim moment that does all the talking.

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Buy Now for £78

White and yellow spray

Essence Glow Like Honey Serum Spray 50ml

Give your skin an instant hit of radiance with the essence Glow Like Honey Serum Spray.

This bi‑phase mist blends an oil and water layer to refresh, hydrate and leave your complexion dewy with a soft honey scent.

A few spritzes deliver that fresh, healthy‑skin look in seconds. Inspired by K‑Beauty and fully vegan, it pairs perfectly with the Glow Like Honey Primer for a sweet, luminous finish that lets your natural glow shine through.

Buy Now for £3.49

Gold link necklace

Astrid & Miyu Pavé Chain Link Necklace in Gold

Say hello to your new standout piece: the Pavé Chain Link Necklace in gold.

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This bold, hardware‑inspired design mixes chunky chain links with rhodium‑plated pavé detailing, giving it maximum shine and a cool, modern mixed‑metal edge.

Each link is uniquely crafted for A&M and designed to work seamlessly with their Clip Charms, making it a versatile statement you can style your way.

Buy Now for £156 (was £195)

White tube

Blue Lagoon Skin Science Silica Mud Mask

This purifying face mask is packed with bioactive Blue Lagoon Silica to deeply cleanse and strengthen the skin.

It works as an instant reset, refining the complexion and minimising the look of pores for a fresh, clarified finish.

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The result: skin that feels smoother, clearer and beautifully renewed.

Buy Now for £80

Cream shoulder bag

Mango Oval Shoulder Bag

The Mango Oval Shoulder Bag is a sleek, medium‑sized everyday bag with a smooth oval silhouette, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a top zip closure for a clean, minimalist look.

Inside, it’s fully lined and roomy enough for daily essentials without feeling bulky.

Made from polyurethane with a polyester lining, it comes in neutral shades like off‑white and beige.

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Buy Now for £35.99

Black slogan tshirt

M·A·C VIVA GLAM x Conner Ives ‘Protect the Dolls’ Shirt

M·A·C has teamed up with designer Conner Ives to relaunch his viral ‘Protect the Dolls’ T‑shirt alongside a new VIVA GLAM lipstick for Trans Day of Visibility.

The original tee became a global movement, raising over $600,000 for trans‑focused charities, and 100% of proceeds from this new drop will also support organisations worldwide.

The capsule includes a black organic‑cotton tee and a universally flattering pink‑beige lipstick, with campaign ambassadors such as Dominique Jackson fronting the launch.

Buy Now for £100

Packet of flavoured powder

Fnction Calm 7 Day

Fnction’s Evening Stress Relief and Sleep Support drink is a calming nightly blend designed to help dial down stress, soothe your nervous system and support deeper, better‑quality sleep.

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It’s also boosted with marine collagen to aid skin, joint and muscle repair while you rest – the definition of beauty sleep in a bottle.

Buy Now for £32.99

Blue bottle of fragrance

Glossier You Soie

Glossier You Soie captures that dreamy, sun‑warmed holiday moment just as day turns to dusk.

It’s a creamy, skin‑enhancing solar scent that opens with cool bergamot before softening into rice milk, tiaré water and evening jasmine.

Finished with a warm, musky Ambrox base that sits close to the skin, it wears differently on everyone – making it feel beautifully personal.

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Buy Now for £70

Metallic sneaker

Terry De Havilland Jogger Bolt Silver Sneakers

The Silver Jogger Sneaker channels vintage 1970s style with a modern edge, crafted in metallic silver leather and finished with Terry de Havilland’s signature lightning‑bolt detail for a bold yet easy‑to‑wear look.

Designed to take you from day to night, it mixes retro sport influences with the brand’s rock‑and‑roll DNA, thanks to its clean lines and standout sheen.

Each pair is handmade in Spain, fully leather‑lined and created using premium, responsibly sourced materials, complete with an embossed heel tab and durable rubber sole for everyday comfort.

Buy Now for £185

Red bottle of sparkling soft drink

Belvoir Farm 750ml Raspberry Lemonade Drink

Belvoir Farm’s Raspberry Lemonade is the fruity upgrade your fridge deserves.

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Made with real pressed raspberries, fresh lemon juice and pure spring water, it’s a 100% natural twist on classic lemonade – refreshing, vibrant and genuinely made from the good stuff.

Belvoir prides itself on doing things the long way round: traditional methods, real ingredients, no shortcuts. It might not win them business awards, but it has won them a stack of great‑taste accolades – and that’s exactly the point.

Even better, for 2026 Belvoir Farm will donate a minimum of 5% of profits from this drink – at least £16,000 – to the Lady Garden Foundation, supporting vital gynaecological health work across the UK.

A delicious drink and a good cause? That’s a toast we can get behind.

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Buy Now for £3.50

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