It comes just over a month after the author, 65, announced she had been diagnosed with breast cancer
Best-selling novelist Jane Fallon has said her second breast cancer surgery “went well” and she is “looking forward to getting back to normal”.
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It comes just over a month after the author, 65, announced she had been diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine mammogram.
The author has written 14 books, including Got You Back, Queen Bee and Welcome To The Neighbourhood. Her debut novel, Getting Rid Of Matthew, is being adapted for a comedy-romance film starring Wild Child actress Emma Roberts, Legally Blonde’s Luke Wilson and The Hangover’s Heather Graham.
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In a post on Instagram on Thursday, Jane – who is the long-term partner of comedian Ricky Gervais – said: “So, my second surgery went well. They got the clear margin they need on the original excision, which is great. They did hit a new little patch of precancerous cells on the other side of the new bit they took out but, thankfully, everyone agrees more surgery would be overkill.
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“A huge (percent) of pre cancer doesn’t develop into cancer. I saw the oncologist today and we’ve agreed the risks of radiation outweigh the benefits in my case. Which leaves Tamoxifen (or similar) or wait and see (my preferred option).
“I’m very nervous about going the drug route, because I know the side effects can be hideous, but I’m taking all the info on board & luckily there’s no pressure to make a quick decision.”
It was in March that Jane disclosed her diagnosis, despite having no symptoms. In an online update to her followers at the time, she wrote: “So… I thought I should post something as I’ve had a few people notice I’ve been a bit quiet on here lately. About a month ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer – very early stage thankfully and the prognosis is excellent.
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“I had a routine mammogram a week before Christmas. I had no symptoms but the brilliant radiographer spotted something iffy and sent me for further tests and eventually a biopsy. Since then I’ve had more mammograms, more biopsies and an MRI so they can pinpoint the problem area precisely. It’s been a lot, I’m not going to lie. But, my surgery is scheduled for the week after next and I just want to get it over with now.
“I’m getting incredible care and all will be fine but I’m not engaging with much beyond audiobooks and jigsaws tbh. Dr Eric on duty. Nurse Pickle wondering when lunch is.”
Jane has been in a relationship with Ricky since 1982. In addition to her successful writing career, she has also worked as a television producer, including on EastEnders, Teachers and This Life among other programmes.
This week’s Tube strikes by RMT members have been the union’s least effective walkouts on the London Underground for years, data has revealed.
Official figures show that a normal service continued on more than half of scheduled trains across all London Underground lines on Tuesday.
Sources within the transport authority said they could not remember any previous RMT strikes in which over half of the planned services continued to operate.
Members of the RMT on the picket line on Tuesday
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While only around 60% of Tube drivers reported for work, passengers have been able to get around the city much easier than during the strikes in September last year.
It was thought that the strike action could result in most trains being cancelled – but some of these busiest underground lines, such as the Bakerloo, Victoria and Northern lines, have managed to operate at around two-thirds of their normal service, resulting in only minor delays.
In comparison, every single line across the network was suspended during the strike between September 8 and 11, with only the Northern line able to open fully on September 9 and parts of four others running for brief periods.
As a result, Londoners were forced to either work from home or pack into Elizabeth line or London Overground trains, while Lime and Forest experienced a huge surge in people travelling on their rental e-bikes.
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Passengers faced four days of disruption on the Tube across the week
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This walkout’s failure to bring the capital to a standstill suggests that the RMT union may be losing its power, with Thomas Turrell, the Conservatives’ City Hall transport spokesman, describing the data as a “bitter disappointment to the union barons who sought to paralyse London”.
Mr Turrell said: “The Conservatives created legislation to ensure this level of service as a legal minimum during strikes, which Labour promptly dropped – and as such, any strike which is more damaging to London than the one we have seen this week will be a blatant political choice by authorities.”
“Whilst it is a relief that the full damage of this strike did not come to pass, we must not ignore the fact that these strikes come only because the unions think that our weak Labour Mayor will capitulate to them.”
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An RMT spokesman told The Standard: “Our strike is solid and reflects our growing presence in the driver grade in London Underground. TfL need to focus on revising the offer our members have overwhelmingly rejected to avert further disruption in the coming months.”
But why have the latest series of Tube strikes failed to make so much of an impact? Here are five reasons why.
RMT members are striking – but Aslef aren’t
Only around half of London’s 3,300 Tube drivers are members of the RMT.
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This figure has declined significantly in recent years, with many either giving up union membership or joining rival union Aslef.
Aslef has already agreed to a 35-hour week, which is being offered to all drivers on a voluntary basis, while the RMT wants drivers’ working hours cut to 32 per week with no reduction in pay.
Only train drivers have walked out
In September, all 10,000 of the RMT’s members walked out – but this week, it is only the drivers who aren’t working.
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On that occasion, all staff were locked into a dispute over pay and working conditions. This included drivers, station staff and service controllers.
Service controllers play a similar role to that of an air traffic controller – regulating train movements, communicating with staff and customers during disruptions, as well as running signalling systems.
Station staff continued to work while drivers went on strike
TfL
Their absence in September was the most important factor in determining whether lines could operate or not.
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Shortly after those strikes, the pay dispute was resolved when the RMT accepted a 3.4% pay offer in November.
However, the specific issues surrounding Tube driver working hours and conditions were not addressed – hence the strikes this week.
Only Tube lines have been affected by the action this week.
During the strike action in September, DLR workers also walked out over concerns surrounding pay and conditions, putting an even larger strain on the Elizabeth line in East and South East London.
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On this occasion, the Elizabeth line, the DLR, London Overground services and National Rail trains have all been operating a good service, providing a viable alternative for many passengers.
The Elizabeth line has been running as normal
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Around 33% more people than normal have used the Elizabeth Line this week, taking on many additional commuters as it passes through the middle of the capital – easing the issues caused by the part-suspension of the Central Line across its middle stretch between White City and Liverpool Street.
Overground use has also risen significantly, up 18%.
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Passenger numbers in general have been lower since the pandemic, with flexible working allowing people to stay home when necessary, especially on Fridays.
Throughout the strike action, Londoners have heeded TfL’s warnings about significant disruption. Across the whole week, TfL said that customer journeys were 12% down on normal across the whole network.
Officials confirmed a 13% drop in the number of contactless cards tapping in on Tuesday compared with the same day last year.
This equates to around half a million fewer travellers, a decrease from 3.9 million tap-ins last year to 3.4 million earlier this week.
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The timing of the strikes has also helped – in the era of flexible working, people have been able to leave the office early to beat the worst of the rush or avoid the strikes altogether.
During the strike action in September, which ran all day as opposed to midday to midday, both the morning and evening rush hours were severely impacted, which has not been the case this time around.
TfL Director Nick Dent said that, despite the disruption, it is estimated that 88% of journeys in London still took place on Thursday compared to a normal day using all different modes of public transport.
Many commuters into London have switched to cycling, with TfL’s bike hire scheme up 28%.
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E-bike firms saw an increase in users
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Operators like Lime, Forest and Voi have also seen a huge surge in riders, and helped by the beautiful weather, many with a shorter commute have been walking into the city.
It follows a similar pattern seen during last September’s strikes, where one in five Londoners cycled during the strike, according to a YouGov survey.
There has also been a 6% increase in journeys taken by bus.
Ahmed Alid, 47, is accused of attempting to murder Roderic Vassie at HMP Full Sutton, on August 8 2025 after Friday prayers, the Old Bailey heard on Friday.
He is accused of causing serious injury, Philip McGhee, prosecuting, said.
Mr McGhee said Alid “shouted words which suggest ideological alignment with Isis”.
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Alid is also charged with possession of an offensive weapon, namely a piece of metal, inside HMP Full Sutton, near York.
He was transferred to HMP Wakefield where he is accused of attacking prison officer Sarah Mitchell on October 21 last year, causing a broken nose and bruising among other injuries, the court heard.
Alid has been charged with assaulting Ms Mitchell occasioning her actual bodily harm.
The defendant appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday via video link from HMP Wakefield.
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Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb said his trial will take place at Sheffield Crown Court on November 30 this year.
A plea hearing will take place on August 28 at the Old Bailey.
Through his lawyer, Alid indicated he will be entering not guilty pleas.
Gerry Butler collapsed while taking part in a tournament in Portugal, with heartbroken friends and teammates praising his kindness, generosity and dedication to walking football.
Tributes have poured in for a much-loved Edinburgh dad described as “one of life’s good guys” following his sudden death in Portugal.
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Gerry Butler, 62, became unwell and collapsed while taking part in the EuroCopa Football Tournament in the Algarve on Monday, April 20.
A hugely respected figure in the Edinburgh sport scene, he served as South East Regional Manager for the over-65s and over-70s with Walking Football Scotland. He also played a major role at Oriam, Scotland’s national performance centre for sport, and contributed to the development of Currie Youth Football.
Paying tribute, Matt Ramsay, trustee of Walking Football Scotland, said: “Gerry was a tremendous supporter of the walking football community and a constant source of encouragement to so many.
“He always took a genuine interest in the development of others and, importantly, in how he could offer his support.
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“He embodied the true spirit of walking football — respect, inclusion, encouragement, and looking out for others whilst never losing sight of the enjoyment the game brings.
“Walking Football Scotland is sincerely grateful for the contribution Gerry made to the organisation and to the wider game. His impact will not be forgotten, and his kindness and generosity of spirit have touched many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lorna, his family, teammates, and friends at this very difficult time.”
The organisation added he “embodied everything that walking football stands for” and described him as a “true gentleman”.
A heartfelt social media post read: “Gerry was one of life’s good guys. The walking football family is certainly poorer for his loss, and those of us who knew him are better for it.”
Friends and teammates also shared their grief, with one writing: “Sending heartfelt love and condolences to Lorna and family – this is a huge loss.” Another added: “Such a shock. Thoughts are with his family and the guys out in Portugal – they must be devastated.”
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A second strike by London Underground drivers this week is going on until midday on Friday, bringing further travel disruption for commuters and visitors to the capital.
Four days of disruption on the Tube began on Tuesday when members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) walked out at 12pm over a dispute with Transport for London (TfL) on a new four-day working week.
However, that was just the first of six planned strikes over the coming weeks.
We will keep you updated throughout the day on the status of all affected lines.
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Here are all the Tube lines currently disrupted:
Waterloo & City line – No service on the entire line
Bakerloo line – No service between Harrow & Wealdstone and Queens Park, and severe delays on the rest of the line
Central line – No service between Liverpool Street and White City, and good service on the rest of the line
Hammersmith & City line – No service between Barking and Liverpool Street, and severe delays on the entire line
Metropolitan line – No service between Baker Street and Aldgate, and minor delays on the rest of the line
Piccadilly line – No service between Acton Town and Heathrow Terminals, and between Arnos Grove and Uxbridge, and severe delays on the rest of the line
City of York Council has announced plans to bar motor vehicles and pedal cycles from 17 city centre streets on Sunday, April 26.
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Scout and Girlguiding groups are attending services in York Minster and a city centre church and parading through the city centre streets.
Drummers during the St George’s Day parade in York in 2025 (Image: Dylan Connell)
The closure runs from 12pm to 4pm on Spurriergate, Coney Street, Market Street, Feasegate, New Street, Lendal, St Helen’s Square, Davygate, St Sampson’s Square, Church Street, Parliament Street, High Ousegate, Blake Street, Duncombe Place, Stonegate, Precentor’s Court, and The Purey Cust.
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Traffic management controls at each closure point will be in place to reduce disruption.
A council spokesperson said: “Traffic signs or barriers will indicate the extent of the parking place suspensions.
“No requirement will be made for an alternative route for prohibited traffic.”
Expect plenty of road closures during the 2026 London Marathon (Photo by Sam Mellish/Getty Images)
Thousands of people will be making their way into the capital on Sunday for this year’s London Marathon.
Crowds of people will be supporting the runners as they take on the 26.2mile course through the city.
The course will set off from Greenwich Park and Blackheath Park and will take the runners across Tower Bridge and past such sites as the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, Canary Wharf, The Shard, Big Ben and the Tower of London, before finishing up on The Mall at St James’s Park.
There will of course be travel disruptions and road closures on Sunday, so read on to find out where you can expect them and from what time.
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London Marathon 2026 route map
The full route of the 2026 London Marathon will take runners on a tour through central London.
The race runs along both the north and south banks of the River Thames at various points throughout its 26.2mile route.
But running such a large event will require road closures at different points throughout the day as runners make their way through the capital.
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Which roads will be closed for London Marathon 2026 and at what times?
There will be closures right across the route of the London Marathon occurring at separate times throughout the day. Here are details of the roads that will be shut and their closure times.
Charlton Way (Red start) – closed 4am-2.30pm
Shooters Hill Road (Blue start) – closed 4am-2.30pm
St John’s Park (Pink start) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Charlton Park Road (Red route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Shooters Hill Road (Blue route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Old Dover Road (Pink route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Little Heath (Red route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Charlton Park Lane (Blue route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Artillery Place (Red route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
John Wilson Street (Blue route) – closed 7am-2.30pm
Woolwich Church Street – closed 7am-3pm
Woolwich Road – closed 7am-3pm
Trafalgar Road – closed 7am-4pm
Creek Road – closed 7am-4pm
Evelyn Street – closed 8am-4pm
Surrey QuaysRoad – closed 8am-4pm
Salter Road – closed 8am-4pm
Brunel Road – closed 8am-4pm
Jamaica Road – closed 8am-4pm
Tower Bridge – closed 8am-8.30pm
The Highway (South side) – closed 8am-8.30pm
Narrow Street – closed 8am-8.30pm
Westferry Road – closed 8am-8.30pm
East Ferry Road – closed 8am-8.30pm
Marsh Wall – closed 8am-8.30pm
Bank Street – closed 8am-8.30pm
North Colonnade – closed 8am-8.30pm
Poplar High Street – closed 8am-8.30pm
Commercial Road – closed 8am-8.30pm
The Highway (North side) – closed 8am-8.30pm
Byward Street – closed 7.30am-9pm
Upper/Lower Thames Street – closed 7.30am-9pm
Victoria Embankment – closed 7.30am-10pm
Parliament Square – closed 7.30am-10pm
Birdcage Walk (Eastbound) – closed from 6am Friday, April 24 to 6am Monday, April 27
Birdcage Walk (westbound) – closed from 6am Saturday, April 25 to 6am Monday, April 27
To get the latest news from the capital, visit Metro’sLondon news hub.
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London Underground on marathon day
Like past years, the London Underground, London Overground and Docklands Light Railway are expected to run extra services throughout marathon day and are recommended as the best way to get around to keep up with the race action.
Due to the nature of the day, expect services to be busy with crowds of spectators along the route.
An Elizabeth line train pulls into a busy platform with commuters (Credits: In Pictures via Getty Images)
Stops near the marathon route are likely to be very busy, especially the Jubilee, Circle and District lines, and the DLR.
On Sunday, the Waterloo & City line will be completely closed, and there are part closures on the Piccadilly line between Rayners Lane and Uxbridge, and Cockfosters and King’s Cross St. Pancras.
Transport for London is encouraging everyone to plan their journeys in advance and check the TfL website or TfL Go app for the latest travel information.
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And remember, marathon runners wearing their bibs can travel on the Tube and London buses for free.
Buses on marathon day
Bus routes along the route of the marathon will either be diverted or will not run the length of their usual journey until the roads are back open.
If travelling by bus on the day, visit tfl.gov.uk/bus/status to see if your bus route is affected.
What time does the London Marathon start?
Official timings haven’t been confirmed but following last year’s Marathon it’s expected that the race will kick off at around 8.50am when the Elite Wheelchairs class sets off.
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Elite Women will follow at around 9.05am, with Elite Men at 9.35am.
The mass event will then open for all other racers to set off between 9.35am and 11.30am.
Start times are allocated based on runners’ predicted finish time, which will have been given to organisers ahead of time.
Runners are given a total of eight hours to finish the marathon – anyone who takes longer than this will be moved to continue running on the pavement, and London Marathon staff will help them reach the finish line.
Paul Ward, 73, was drinking at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court which he had attended to answer a charge of drink driving yesterday, said Georgina Fishwick, prosecuting.
After he was disqualified from driving for 12 months and the case was finished, he drove away from the courthouse.
Police spotted him 25 miles away at the junction of the A684 and A1(M) at 4.45pm the same day and arrested him.
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They gave him a breath test, which he failed and kept him in custody overnight.
York magistrates told him he had shown “contempt” for their colleagues in Harrogate.
“This is so serious it attracts a prison sentence, but we are going to suspend it and there is going to be a significant ban,” they said.
They gave him an eight-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months and banned him from driving for four years.
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“We are going to ask a question we wouldn’t normally ask,” they said. “How are you getting home?”
They heard because he was brought to court in custody he would get a travel warrant that would enable him to catch a train.
Defence solicitor Craig Robertson said given his age “it is going to be difficult for him to justify getting his licence back” after he finishes the four-year ban.
Ward, of Stainburn, south-west of Harrogate, pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified, drink driving and driving without insurance, all committed on Thursday, April 23.
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On Thursday, at Harrogate Magistrates Court, he was fined and given a total court bill of £253. To that York magistrates added £85 prosecution costs and a £154 statutory surcharge.
Many drink drivers are given the chance to reduce their ban by taking a drink drivers’ rehabilitation test.
“Because of the contempt you showed for the decision made by the previous bench we do not believe that is justified,” York magistrates told him.
Ms Fishwick said the breath test gave a reading of 45 micrograms in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35 micrograms.
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Mr Robertson said Ward had not initially intended to drive home from the Harrogate court and had arranged for his daughter to collect his car.
But an emergency had prevented her from doing that so he had made the “foolish” decision to drive.
He hadn’t realised at the time the seriousness of what he was doing.
The former Coronation Street star took to social media to speak about his younger sibling following his dramatic I’m A Celeb stint
Ryan Thomas has been seen speaking out in defence of his brother, Adam, as his time in I’m A Celebrity… South Africa continues to be marred by the drama which has unfolded on-screen.
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There were explosive scenes in the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here spin-off this week as the Manchester-born actor almost lost his place in camp due to Jimmy Bullard quitting a trial, which therefore saw him forfeit his time on the ITV show.
Adam’s unexpected outburst towards the former footballer came after viewers were left in uproar over David Haye’s treatment of the Waterloo Road star.
The boxer criticised Adam for opting out of a Bushtucker Trial because he was “not feeling well”, before he went on to claim he was “dehydrated”. Despite fellow campmate Beverley Callard urging him to “have a little bit of sympathy”, boxer David called actor Adam “useless”, adding: “Who gives a s*** if he doesn’t feel well. He’s a grown-ass man.”
Adam, 37, has since been heard speaking to his brothers Scott and Ryan on their At Home With The Thomas Bro’s podcast, and Adam broke down in tears as he told of his “tough time” during the all-star series, while also sharing that he is now in therapy after the experience.
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Former Emmerdale star Adam has since made the final of I’m A Celebrity South Africa, which will air live on ITV on Friday (April 24) night, alongside Craig Charles, Harry Redknapp and Sir Mo Farah, and ahead of it, Ryan has spoken out in support of his younger sibling.
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The former Coronation Street star took to Instagram with a childhood snap of the pair, alongside which he wrote in view of his followers: “It’s hard to put into words what you mean to me bro. You’ve always been more than just a brother… you’ve been my backbone, my reality check, and the person who always champions me & everyone else around you.
“A friend of mine called me this morning and said in 30 years of knowing Adam he’s never seen him react the way he did in the jungle does that not speak volumes!!??? You stay true to your emotions your feelings it’s who you are & I wouldn’t change any of you, you do things with compassion, love & sensitivity.”
He went on: “I hate to say this because I’m your big brother but I look up to you in so many ways sometimes I wish I was more like you. You’re not just my little brother…you’re my best friend & I’d be lost without you. Ps I know you don’t care about winning but just a reminder that us boys have done every reality show there is & I’ve won all of them….what have you won!? Bring that crown home R kid. As Dad would say ‘life’s a game son’.”
Ryan Swain from Malton says his life was turned upside down when a routine dosage increase spiralled into a “life-threatening” ordeal.
The medication, prescribed to manage his motor tics and Tourette’s syndrome, triggered a severe reaction that saw his body effectively seize up.
From extreme rigidity and seizure-like episodes to agonising chronic pain and a complete inability to communicate, the symptoms were devastating.
North Yorkshire presenter’s body ‘shut down’ after taking medication for Tourette’s syndrome
Ryan told Creatorzine: “My body felt like it was shutting down and I had no control over my muscles or my responses.
“It was within a short period after starting the medication, particularly following an increase from 30mg to 60mg, that I began to notice symptoms developing.
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“My condition deteriorated rapidly and became life-threatening in a very short space of time.”
The 36-year-old who is also a skateboarder and motivational speaker had been prescribed Duloxetine but after his dosage was increased, his condition quickly took a frightening turn.
Warning signs first emerged in early April, when he began suffering profuse sweating, zoning out and severe muscle tension.
Concerned, Ryan visited his GP, who suspected early signs of both Serotonin Syndrome and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome, two potentially dangerous conditions.
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Ryan has been updating people on his recent health scare on social media (Image: Jam Press/@officialryanswain)
As his symptoms rapidly escalated, he was taken to Scarborough General Hospital.
Ryan explained: “I was taken into hospital where I was rushed in resuscitation.
“A cannula was fitted and I was given a drug to counteract it called Procyclindine which worked well and I remained for five days under close monitoring.
“During that time, I underwent a range of tests including ECG heart monitoring and other investigations to assess the impact the reaction had on my body.”
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Throughout his five-day hospital stay, he was closely monitored by multiple specialist teams, including neurologists and mental health professionals.
But the experience exposed how little understood such reactions can be.
Ryan said: “Different teams were learning in real time, assessing symptoms, and working through what was happening as it unfolded.
“While the care I received was dedicated and supportive, it highlighted how complex and evolving the understanding of these reactions still is, even within clinical settings.”
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The aftermath has been life-altering for Ryan who says his muscles “totally seized up”, leaving his mobility severely impacted and even the simplest tasks now feel overwhelming.
He shared: “My moods and emotions are all over the place, my movement became slow and painful, and even basic tasks simply became difficult.
“I also experienced issues with memory, processing, and coordination, which are still part of my ongoing recovery.
“Emotionally, the experience has been overwhelming and at times traumatic.
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“There’s a loss of trust in your own body when something like this happens, especially when it escalates so quickly and without warning.”
‘My body felt like it was shutting down’ (Image: Jam Press/@officialryanswain)
Doctors later explained the ordeal was caused by a severe adverse reaction linked to serotonin levels in his body.
While rare, such reactions can escalate at alarming speed and can become life-threatening in a matter of hours.
Ryan commented, “From what I’ve been told, reactions like this can sometimes be linked to dose increases or how an individual’s body responds to a medication, even when it has been prescribed correctly.
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“While this is a complex condition and still something that is being understood in real time, the care, urgency, and dedication I received were absolutely incredible.
“I do wish I had been more aware of how serious and fast-moving reactions like this can be, and how important it is to recognise early warning signs and seek immediate help.
“I want to raise as much awareness as possible around the potential dangers of prescribed medication when it is not fully understood by the individual taking it, particularly around side effects, reactions, and the risks that can come with mixing medications.”
With its luxurious skyscrapers, historic temples, and intriguing seaside towns, it’s easy to see why Hong Kong was chose
Neil Shaw Assistant Editor
14:09, 24 Apr 2026Updated 14:09, 24 Apr 2026
The Apprentice has wrapped up another series with Lord Sugar picking beauty entrepreneur Karishma Vijay as his latest business partner. While she gets to work on plans for a £250,000 investment, another standout star of the series is also very much open for business.
The dazzling city of Hong Kong starred in the first episode of the landmark 20th series, when those hoping to impress flitted between glimmering high-rises in search of unusual items. The Apprentice has even put Hong Kong at the centre of a new global trend, “set-jetting”, whereby fans of popular TV programmes make a beeline for locations featured in their favourite show. It also marked the first time Lord Sugar had travelled abroad to take part in an episode in the show’s 20-year history.
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With its luxurious skyscrapers, historic temples, and intriguing seaside towns, it’s easy to see why Hong Kong was chosen as an impressive backdrop for this year’s opener. As ever, some candidates fared better there than others – though their travails meant fans got to see new sides of one of the world’s great global hubs.
Amid the hectic rush to obtain all the items requested by Lord Sugar, viewers may have missed some of the spots featured in the episode. So here’s a handy guide to the standouts for any prospective set-jetters.
The Henderson – a boardroom with a view at Cloud 39
For the first time in the show’s history, the famous boardroom left its London base, relocating to The Henderson.
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After their task, candidates faced judgment in Cloud 39, high above the city’s commercial heart. The building, recently named World’s Best Property at the International Property Awards, offers sweeping views across Hong Kong’s best skyline from the 39th floor.
The tower itself, designed by Zaha Hadid, is inspired by the bauhinia flower – the city’s emblem – with flowing, sculptural lines that make it one of the most distinctive additions to the skyline. One floor below the glass-walled boardroom is Peridot, where mixologist François Cavelier serves terroir-inspired cocktails best enjoyed against the glow of the city at night, in a lush green interior with around 20,000 light bulbs. A contemporary menu, including inventive plant-based dishes, can also be enjoyed until late.
West Kowloon Cultural District and Palace Museum
West Kowloon Cultural District, otherwise known as WestK, provides the backdrop for the candidates first mad dash to find Lord Sugar’s assorted items, ranging from erhus to shrimp paste.
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Spanning 40 hectares with 17 venues, WestK is a hub for visual arts, performing arts, and educational experiences, anchored by the spectacular Hong Kong Palace Museum.
The Museum presents over 900 priceless treasures from the Palace Museum in Beijing, many never previously shown to the public, alongside world-class rotating exhibitions. The waterfront Art Park offers a long harbour promenade ideal for sunset views. From Central, hop the MTR’s Tung Chung Line to Kowloon Station to get there in under ten minutes.
The Big Buddha, Lantau Island – serenity meets suspense
The Tian Tan Buddha – better known as the Big Buddha – sits on Lantau Island, and for the locals it is a place of meditation and contemplation, set amid the cooler mountain air of Ngong Ping. The area has been a centre of Buddhist life since the early 20th Century, with the nearby Po Lin Monastery attracting visitors in search of peace and tranquillity.
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The Big Buddha, serving as a breathtaking backdrop, became the finish line for this year’s opening task, with both boys and girls teams racing against time to make their deadline.
For those in less of a panic, the best way to arrive is via the Ngong Ping 360, a cable car offering panoramic views.
Stanley – tradition meets the tide
In Stanley, the boys’ team tracked down a dragon boat head while mapping out their negotiating tactics along the town’s main beach.
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Stanley is a laidback coastal spot, well known for its dragon boat racing culture – a tradition that dates back thousands of years. Crews of up to 20 paddlers race long, ornately decorated boats to the beat of a drum, combining sport with centuries-old ritual.
Stanley hosts one of Hong Kong’s most famous dragon boat festivals, with local and international teams competing each year.
To get to Stanley from Hong Kong (Central), visitors can take bus 6, 6X, or 260 from the Exchange Square Bus Terminus (near MTR Central Station/Hong Kong Station).
Aberdeen – a harbour of heritage
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In Hong Kong, Aberdeen is a bustling fishing harbour, where life revolves around the water. Seafood restaurants serve freshly caught produce, while one of Hong Kong’s last floating village lines the waterfront – with residents living aboard traditional junks.
During the task, the girls’ team explored its busy market, a favourite with visitors seeking local specialities such as steamed razor clams.
To get to Aberdeen from Central Hong Kong, taking a bus is the most direct option, with routes 70 from Exchange Square or 7 from the Central Ferry Piers taking approximately 20-30 minutes.
Can you follow in their footsteps?
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Hong Kong’s blend of cutting-edge architecture, cultural landmarks, and timeless waterfront scenes made for an unforgettable episode of The Apprentice. Though the city proved a formidable challenge for many candidates – prompting one of Lord Sugar’s classic boardroom reprimands – travellers can now explore these sites at their own pace. Best of all, you won’t have to answer to Lord Sugar afterwards.
Relive the excitement and start planning your Hong Kong adventure.
The Apprentice is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.
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