A Reform-supporting pensioner who attacked a female heckler at the party’s conference last week “should be given a medal”, Robert Jenrick has said.
The woman was set upon by the crowd after disrupting Nigel Farage’s keynote speech at the Birmingham event.
His address was interrupted by multiple demonstrators, reportedly from activist group Climate Resistance, all of whom were removed by security staff.
Footage filmed by people in the crowd showed one female protester having her hair pulled and being hit by one elderly attendee’s walking stick.
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Appearing on Talk TV, Jenrick, who is Reform’s Treasury spokesman, was asked by presenter Peter Cardwell if he would apologise to the woman.
He said: “I’m not going to apologise. It’s an occupational if you’re a professional protester who goes into conferences, tries to disrupt the speech of the leader.
“Remember, this is a leader whose life has been threatened in recent times.”
Asked if it was reasonable for the woman to be hit in the face with a crutch, Jenrick replied: “Come on. A professional protester is moaning that an old age pensioner knocked her with a crutch. It’s completely and utter ridiculous.”
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When Cardwell asked if he had “not a smidgeon of sympathy” for the woman, Jenrick said: “I don’t have any sympathy for her.
“In fact, I’m sorry for the OAP who’s had his picture plastered all over the papers. He should be given a medal for what he did.”
Robert Jenrick(Reform MP) doubles down on the pensioner assaulting the protester at the Reform conference:
Jenrick has previously been criticised for his response to the incident.
Asked about it on Sky News last Sunday, he said: “Oh, boo-hoo.”
After being shown the video footage, Jenrick said: “We’re now in a country where, whatever she is, a far-left protester, goes into party conference, tries to wreck the leader’s speech and cries foul if a pensioner knocks her over the head with a zimmer frame. “I mean, come on, get a life.”
Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.
RuPaul’s Drag Race is set to exit BBC due to ‘financial pressure’ facing the broadcaster (Picture: BBC/ Leigh Keily / Matt Burlem)
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK is sashaying away from the BBC after eight series – and while the show itself isn’t disappearing, some fans are deeply concerned about what its departure means for LGBTQ+ representation on British television.
The BBC has confirmed it will no longer broadcast future series of the hit competition after its current run, with Drag Race UK instead moving to production company World of Wonder’s streaming service, WOW Presents Plus.
Its spin-off UK vs The World will make the move too, while a new Drag Race UK All Stars series has already been announced for autumn 2027.
The decision means Drag Race UK does have a future, but it will no longer have the same freely accessible home that helped turn British queens into household names and brought drag into millions of living rooms.
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That difference hasn’t been lost on former contestant Bimini, who shared an emotional response to the news.
‘Drag Race UK is leaving the BBC. I’m actually so sad about this,’ they wrote on X, reflecting on filming the second series more than six years ago.
Many fans think the move reflects a larger issue in LGBTQ+ representation (Picture: BBC/World of Wonder/Ray Burmiston)
‘I was skint, I had no clue what I was doing, and I was locked in a room with eleven of the most talented people I’ve ever met.’
Bimini credited the programme with transforming their life and career, but also highlighted its imporance beyond its impact on the lives of those who competed on it.
‘That show was on in living rooms where drag was not welcome, and it changed something in those living rooms,’ they wrote.
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‘At a time when queer and trans people in this country are being legislated about and shouted about more than ever, that matters. It still does.’
They concluded: ‘Drag was here before the telly. It’ll be here after.’
Former contestant La Voix, who became a huge name in entertainment after her appearance on the show, wrote on Instagram: ‘I know the show will live on, on WOW presents uk, but it’s a loss to not have this represented on main terrestrial tv!
‘So, to everyone who has been part of the BBC Drag Race UK family — queens, crew, producers, judges and everyone behind the scenes — thank you for the memories, the opportunities and the friendships.’
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Drag Race UK is leaving the BBC. I’m actually so sad about this 😭🥹
We filmed that show over six years ago. Six. I’ve blinked and it’s gone. I was skint, I had no clue what I was doing, and I was locked in a room with eleven of the most talented people i’ve ever met.… pic.twitter.com/d1EyPzfb47
The BBC has attributed the decision to its financial situation rather than the nature of the programme, as it works towards making £500million in savings.
A spokesperson told Metro: ‘As the BBC continues to navigate significant financial pressures and deliver the savings required of us, we have had to make some very difficult choices, none of which have been taken lightly. We can therefore confirm together with World of Wonder, that RuPaul’s Drag Race UK will be leaving the BBC and moving to WOW Presents Plus.
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‘The BBC is incredibly proud of all eleven series of this groundbreaking show and we would like to thank RuPaul, World of Wonder and everyone involved, both on and off screen. We are certain that viewers will enjoy the eighth series, which is currently airing on BBC iPlayer and BBC Three.’
Drag Race UK launched in 2019, bringing RuPaul’s wildly successful US format across the pond with a distinctly British spin.
The Dannii Minogue-fronted shows made history by putting gay and lesbian dating at the centre of a mainstream UK reality franchise, but the corporation confirmed earlier this year that they would end amid its funding challenges.
Now, three of the BBC’s most prominent LGBTQ+ entertainment shows have either ended or are leaving the broadcaster in 2026.
‘I Kissed a Boy / Girl AND Drag Race UK cancelled by the BBC in 2026 🙃,’ one person wrote on X. ‘Representation is soooo important and we are seeing less and less.’
Another said they found it ‘very upsetting’ to see the BBC cutting LGBTQ+ programming, while others questioned why Drag Race UK had been chosen given its apparent continued popularity.
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The current series will finish broadcasting on the BBC (Picture: Simon Ackerman/WireImage)
One viewer claimed it had been the BBC’s third most-streamed programme only last week, describing the decision as a ‘lack of vision’.
Others were more optimistic about the move to World of Wonder, particularly given one longstanding gripe with the British edition.
‘BBC couldn’t properly fund this show. And that small prize package??? The queens will do better without BBC,’ one fan argued.
‘Finally. Give the girls a proper cash prize,’ another joked.
There has been no announcement that the move will result in a bigger prize fund.
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The current eighth series, which launched in September, will continue to air normally on BBC Three and iPlayer, while existing episodes are expected to remain available after the switch.
World of Wonder, meanwhile, has promised a ‘new era’ for the franchise, with future Drag Race UK and UK vs The World series heading to WOW Presents Plus alongside the newly announced All Stars edition.
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The BBC has not suggested that its decision has anything to do with Drag Race UK’s LGBTQ+ content, and has explicitly cited the financial pressures it is under.
Still, for viewers who have watched I Kissed A Boy, I Kissed A Girl and now Drag Race UK disappear from the BBC’s future schedules in a matter of months, the optics have inevitably become part of the story.
As one fan put it, while sharing an emotional clip from Drag Race UK showing a father accepting his drag queen son: ‘This is why a show like this was so vital to so many queer individuals who found home in the show.’
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Drag Race UK may have found somewhere else to sashay to. For some fans, though, losing its place on public television is the part that hurts.
Primark will launch home delivery for its customers in Britain as it comes under pressure from cheaper online rivals.
Its owner, Associated British Foods, said the discount clothing brand, which has resisted the move for years, would offer delivery ‘in the future’.
Customers have long called for Primark, which has nearly 200 stores in the UK, to offer delivery like other high street brands.
It has previously argued that its low prices and tight margins cannot absorb the additional costs related to online delivery, but the dominance of brands such as Shein seems to have forced its hand.
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Primark has moved closer to online retail in recent years, launching a mobile app for British customers earlier this year to support its overdue move into click-and-collect, which debuted in November 2022.
It had previously conceded that customers are ‘increasingly turning to digital tools that make shopping easier’.
Primark promises to offer home delivery ‘in the future’ as online rivals ramp up pressure
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In a statement this morning, owner ABF said: ‘Building on this strategy, Primark will continue to grow Click & Collect and, having undertaken a detailed review, will in the future offer home delivery in Great Britain.
‘Primark’s digital maturity, including the success of Click & Collect, and online market developments, mean there is now the opportunity for profitable growth through the home delivery channel.’
It has bought a Sheffield fulfilment facility from Boohoo for £90million as it ramps up its online operations.
It marks a significant move by chief executive Eoin Tonge, who joined a year ago, as he prepares for Primark to be spun off from owner ABF.
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An expansion of Primark’s online offering came as the retailer reported a slowdown in sales and expects a 3 per cent fall in its fourth quarter to September 12.
The wider group warned that losses at its sugar business would be towards the higher end of its previous guidance range of between £25million and £60million for the current financial year.
Shares plummeted nearly 10 per cent to 1,818.5p.
Aarin Chekrie, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said home delivery would help to boost Primark’s top line, but ‘running an efficient and profitable delivery and returns service is no easy task, doing it profitably is even more difficult.’
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More than half of British voters believe Nigel Farage is “very sleazy”, according to a new poll.
The public have an equally dim view of Reform UK amid the ongoing controversy over the party’s financial arrangements.
The Metropolitan Police yesterday confirmed that they have launched a criminal investigation into allegations Reform broke electoral law in an undercover Channel 4 investigation.
Detectives are already probing money given to the party by Fiona Cottrell, who is the mother of longstanding Farage ally, George Cottrell.
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Reform have denied any wrongdoing.
Nevertheless, the YouGov poll reveals that 73% of Brits describe Farage as sleazy, including 56% who think he is very sleazy.
Even more worryingly for the Reform leader, 41% of his own party’s voters also think he is sleazy.
Meanwhile, the proportion of voters who think Reform UK is sleazy has increased by 20 points over the last two years to 71%.
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That is the same level as the last Conservative government, which was booted out of office in 2024 after 14 years in power.
Just over a third of voters think prime minister Andy Burnham and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch are sleazy, with 46% saying the same of Green Party boss Zack Polanski.
The poll findings are yet another blow for Reform, who have seen their healthy poll lead over Labour disappear in recent months.
While Labour has enjoyed an increase in popularity since Burnham replaced Keir Starmer as leader, revelations that Farage failed to declare a £5 million gift from a Thailand-based crypto billionaire have also damaged his party.
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Reform have also been riven by in-fighting, with Tim Montgomerie – who defected from the Tories last year – this week quitting, claiming the party is in the middle of a “civil war”.
Listen to Commons People, the podcast that makes politics easy. Every week, Kevin Schofield and Kate Nicholson unpack the week’s biggest stories to keep you informed. Join us for straightforward analysis of what’s going on at Westminster.
I’ve been an avid wearer of Nobody’s Child for a few years now. I’ve seen the brand evolve and go from strength to strength, particularly with its collaborations. As someone who is 5’1” and a size 16-18, I know the struggles of trying to find clothing that fits my body shape.
Petite ranges often fall into the same trap of just shortening leg lengths and sleeves, while not leaving much room for getting the actual fit right. They can also feel dated and safe, limited to tailoring and uninteresting work-wear pieces – not offering much else for the modern customer.
This is Louise Thompson’s second edit for Nobody’s Child after the success of the spring/summer season. While you may know her from her time on Made In Chelsea, Louise Thompson is a mother, podcaster, writer and campaigner for women’s health.
As a woman who understands what it’s like to be spinning many plates, she wanted to create a collection for petite frames that is comfortable and still put-together, even on days when things may not be going to plan.
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This particular collection offers a gorgeous mix of soft separates, cosy knits, comfortable co-ords, relaxed tailoring and floor-length occasionwear. The brand increased its petite collection due to overwhelming demand, especially in dresses.
This collection ranges from a size UK 4 to UK 20. After trying the entire collection on, I can confirm there truly is a style for everyone in this edit.
Nicole Ocran/The Standard
When I spoke to Louise ahead of the launch, she told me that getting dressed was something she would often struggle with because of her size. “I just wanted to feel like I looked confident and comfortable in clothes that fit well.
I’ve always had to spend money getting sleeves and leg lengths taken up, for example, so getting a good ratio between waist, hip and leg length was really important for the petite range across all of the sizes,” she said. “It’s for the in-between, which is where I think a lot of us live.”
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The Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson edit drops today (9 September), but I was lucky enough to be able to get a little preview to try on and style at home in front of my mirror. We’re still in the midst of a heatwave, but as the temperature is set to drop in the next month, I’m looking forward to when it gets cooler to hit the streets properly, especially in these wool-blend pieces and knits.
Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson black satin Marta midi dress
Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love:A sophisticated LBD with distinctive detailing
Take note: All eyes will be on you in this dress!
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First up is the black satin Marta midi dress, which I have to say is a major standout. This is one of those pieces I recommend trying on in person because it looks so unassuming on the hanger. This LBD is perfect for a special occasion, and as we know, the holiday season is just round the corner. You could pair this with a strappy sandal or a statement court shoe, as I did here – plus a clutch for all of your essentials.
This black midi dress is body-skimming in the best way possible. The handkerchief hem with a lace trim makes it just that little bit more elevated. The high cowl neck fastens at the back of the neck, creating a slight halter shape, which is a really beautiful cut on the shoulders.
Despite being an occasionwear piece, you could easily dress this down as well: just throw on an oversized knit to contrast the delicate lace, and add a pair of trainers for an added casual element.
Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson grey wool zip-through cardigan and Juno wide leg trousers
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Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love: Versatile, easy-to-wear pieces
Take note: Cropped trouser lovers, look away
This is such an easy, throw-on look for autumn/winter that will make you feel put together while feeling super comfortable. The relaxed tailoring on the Juno wide trousers (£99, Nobodyschild.com) is great for the office, and is an important reminder that petite frames can absolutely handle a wide-leg shape. I paired it with the grey wool zip-through cardigan, which is going to be such a staple for the colder months.
This piece is so versatile because of the double-zip feature, you could wear it open as a throw on cardigan, zipped down fully, or zipped up half-way as I’ve done here leaving a bit of skin exposed and creating a bit of shape. This is a cardigan that will get lots of mileage in your wardrobe season on season.
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Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson camel swing jacket
Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love:The tie hooded detail adds a playful twist on a classic
Take note: The shorter trench style may not be for you
What this collection has done so well is really consider the details. This camel swing jacket is super sweet, hitting just below the knee and has a tie hood, which is perfect for rainy days. The search for a good trench can be arduous, especially if you’re petite, and this shape is ideal for smaller frames. The checked lining on the tie hood matches the checked lining inside the trench, and if you fold up the sleeves of the jacket, then it will also add a nice pop of red to your look.
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Louise says a pop of red for autumn is a trend she’s looking forward to styling this season: “I always say that reds are neutral. Not every colour can go with everything, but if you have a little pop of red, it just seems to work.” As the weather changes, this is a great throw-on jacket for weekend errands or a misty, early morning dog walk.
Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson grey wool blend coat
Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love: Weighty material and chic funnel neck style
Take note: Size down, as it’s oversized
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One thing you’ll be seeing a lot of in the winter months is funnel neck coats making a major statement. Ideal for cold and windy weather, this grey wool blend coat is guaranteed to keep you toasty warm while being fashion-forward. If you have long hair, I would keep your hair tucked into the funnel neck with a few loose strands to frame your face at the front: so chic.
You could also belt this coat to add a little bit more definition at the waist. This is the type of coat that is essentially the whole outfit. It’s very 90s-inspired; it feels very relaxed yet powerful at the same time. I’d throw this on for an off-duty look, ideally with a knitted co-ord underneath – perfect for travel. Louise agrees, “We’ve got such brilliant coats as well because I think that if things aren’t feeling super organised in the morning, it’s great to just chuck this on and hide under your coat. And I do like an oversized look.”
Agreed, it’s certainly oversized, so I would recommend sizing down.
Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson herringbone cinched blazer and mini skirt
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Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love:A matching skirt suit that feels effortless
Take note: Blazer runs small
I’m a sucker for a British heritage style look, with classic fabrics like herringbone, tweed, tartan check, which run through this collection. “I also have some roots in Scotland, so I really wanted to bring in very loose, boyish, androgynous kilts to the collection. And it’s also back-to-school time, and there’s something quite charming about that uniform look,” Louise told me.
“I think they design a school uniform in a certain way because it’s very comfortable and very wearable. For me, it’s quite nice to revert to that because it’s indicative of routine,” Louise said.
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This skirt suit (£79, Nobodyschild.com) in particular gives me Blair Waldorf vibes in the best possible way. Paired with a loafer or riding boots, you could really lean into the classic countryside look. Or you could wear the blazer open with a band tee to mix it up. The blazer is cinched in a bit at the waist, so depending on your body type, you may need to size up if you want to wear it buttoned up.
Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson heritage check wool-blend pinafore
Nicole Ocran/The Standard
What we love: An ideal transitional garment, great for layering
The countryside chic trend is featured throughout this collection, and this heritage check wool-blend pinafore also nods to uniform dressing. This is a really sweet dress; I love that you can layer it over a crisp white shirt or a rollneck in the winter, with a knee-high boot serving you well into the colder months. The pockets at the front of the dress are functional, of course, but also offer a bit of detail. Very versatile and easy to style throughout autumn and winter.
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Is the Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson collection worth the hype?
In short, yes! This is a really cohesive collection with a bit of something for everyone. You’ll find office-appropriate pieces, casual clothing for everyday wear, coats and jackets, as well as beautiful occasionwear dresses. The only problem I can foresee is not adding everything to cart.
Nicole is a writer and content creator who has been sharing her personal style online for over a decade. She has been published in the Metro, The Independent, Refinery29, Stylist, Harper’s Bazaar and Cosmopolitan covering fashion, beauty as well as race and identity. She is inspired by colour blocking, print clashing, and classic pieces with a twist and gets her hits of dopamine by getting dressed in the morning.
September key update for anyone taking statins for high cholesterol – The Mirror
Need to know
All you need to know as a major 15-year study looked at the impact of medication like Atorvastatin and Simvastatin
Statins slash dementia risk by 15% in major study – need to know
Millions of Brits taking statins have been given major hope after a groundbreaking study revealed the cholesterol-busting drugs can slash dementia risk by 15%.
The massive 15-year study tracked over 132,000 people and found those who started taking statins early – particularly after a type 2 diabetes diagnosis – saw the biggest protection against the devastating brain disease.
Researchers presented their findings at the ESC Congress 2026, with the study published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe. The European Society of Cardiology called dementia prevention an ‘urgent priority’ as there’s currently no effective treatment.
Doctor Tummas Ternhamar from Copenhagen University Hospital said: “Detecting and treating high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from midlife is one such highlighted risk factor.” He noted this was especially important for type 2 diabetes patients.
The study found those who started statins during the research period were 10% less likely to develop dementia overall. But crucially, those taking them early reduced their risk by a whopping 15%, with similar results seen in both men and women.
Professor Isabel Goncalves warned: “This was an observational study, so it cannot prove that statins prevent dementia – the results should therefore support further research.”
The findings could be game-changing as statins like Atorvastatin and Simvastatin are widely available and cheap on the NHS.
The Westminster group said it would probe how the Electoral Commission, the political finance watchdog, oversees the funding and governance of political parties in Scotland, and the safeguards around the distribution of short money – the type of public funding Westminster gives opposition parties.
Barcelona superstar Alejandro Balde was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United towards the end of the summer transfer window
Former Manchester United transfer target Alejandro Balde was an unused substitute in Barcelona’s most recent Champions League clash.
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The Catalans started their European campaign with a 5-1 dismantling of Feyenoord. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick deployed ex-Manchester City right-back Joao Cancelo at left-back against the Dutch side, despite having Balde, a natural left-back, at his disposal.
Ever since United attempted to sign the Spanish defender on loan in the summer transfer window, Flick has not used him in any capacity. Balde has sat on the bench in every match in all competitions this season, suggesting he is not of great importance for the Blaugrana.
Flick recently stated he wants to see more commitment from the 22-year-old and made it clear he will have to fight for his place on the team.
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Before the end of the transfer window, Flick, having excluded him from his match-day squad, which beat Elche in their first La Liga match, said: “No, I’m not asking him to leave.
“This morning I felt there was something wrong. I spoke to him and said: ‘At this moment, I have this feeling, and I think it’s best for you to clear your mind, sort out your thoughts, and then we’ll talk again tomorrow.’
“And he agreed as well. He agreed to it because there are so many things going around in his head, and that’s why he’s not here.”
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Flick reintegrated him back into the squad but has not brought him on from the bench at any point. Meanwhile, United’s only senior left-back at Michael Carrick’s disposal is Luke Shaw.
If the Englishman were to pick up an injury, Carrick would likely have to deploy Lisandro Martinez at left-back or move one of Noussair Mazraoui or Diogo Dalot to the opposite flank, which would be a far from ideal situation. He may have the opportunity to test a new solution this evening.
Shaw did not take part in the training session before United’s Champions League clash against Sabah at Old Trafford. Carrick suggested the former Southampton defender won’t feature and will instead rest ahead of this weekend’s Manchester Derby.
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When asked about Shaw’s absence from training, the United manager said: “We just gave him an extra recovery day today. We’ll see by tomorrow how he is.
“It’s not an ongoing thing or a plan or anything like that. It was just off the back of the game the other day. So, as normal, each individual has different little things that we manage.”
Watch Man United vs Sabah on TNT Sports
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Manchester United host Sabah FK in their opening Champions League fixture on September 10. Fans can watch the game live on TNT Sports via HBO Max or Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel.
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) talks with Chris Bracy (7) after an NCAA college football game against the Western Michigan Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Just like many viewers Saturday night, Top 25 voters were confused when one second was put back on the clock after it appeared time had run out at Michigan Stadium. And they were dazed when JJ Buchanan came down with Bryce Underwood’s second Hail Mary pass to turn the four-touchdown-underdog Broncos’ 12-7 upset into a 13-12 loss.
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The Mid-American Conference submitted appeals to the NCAA and the College Football Playoff administration asking for the result to be overturned to let the record show the Broncos actually won the game for purposes of rankings, evaluations and selection deliberations. The NCAA said its rules don’t allow a move like that and the CFP won’t release its first rankings until November.
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The Wolverines dropped from No. 16 in the preseason poll to out of the Top 25 altogether in the first regular-season poll. It was the biggest fall from ranked to unranked after a win since at least 2008.
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Michigan had appeared on all 69 preseason ballots and was listed as high as No. 10 on one. The Wolverines were on just 22 ballots Tuesday.
Bob Asmussen of the Champaign (Illinois) News-Gazette, in his 16th year as a voter, put Michigan No. 12 on his preseason ballot and said he knew that was a mistake as he watched Michigan’s offense sputter after scoring on its first possession. Voters sometimes hesitate to penalize a team that wins, but Michigan was going to drop off Asmussen’s ballot regardless. Forty-six other voters agreed with him.
“I saw them lose in my mind, but they didn’t technically lose,” Asmussen said. “It was so easy to drop them because of how horrible they were.”
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Kirk Bohls of the Houston Chronicle, in his fourth decade as a voter, had Michigan No. 20 on his preseason ballot but said the Wolverines looked nothing like a Top 25 team. Bohls said he was disturbed by the way the end of the game played out, and the Big Ten’s statement about why 1 second was put on the clock after it showed zeroes didn’t convince him.
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“We were all watching and the Big Ten told us don’t believe what you just saw with your eyes, and it’s kind of hard to unsee that,” Bohls said.
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Bohls said he’ll be curious as to how the CFP selection committee will look at the game if Michigan ends up under consideration for an at-large playoff bid.
“Some people probably on the selection committee might view it as a loss or at the very least a tainted victory,” he said. “It could ultimately be a tie-breaker that goes against Michigan.”
Lots of choices for No. 1
Ohio State is No. 1 by a wide margin going into its showdown at No. 4 Texas this weekend but there is far from universal agreement on which team is best in the land.
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Seven teams received first-place votes, the most since the same number got first-place votes in the 2016 preseason poll. It’s the most in a regular-season poll since seven teams got first-place votes Sept. 2, 2014.
No. 8 LSU’s five first-place votes made the Tigers the lowest-ranked team to get at least one since ninth-ranked Texas A&M on Oct. 11, 2015. LSU hammered Clemson 51-10 in Lane Kiffin’s first game as coach.
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SEC flex
The Southeastern Conference occupies seven of the top 12 spots in the poll with No. 2 Georgia, No. 4 Texas, No. 8 LSU, No. 9 Mississippi, No. 10 Texas A&M, No. 11 Oklahoma and No. 12 Alabama. The SEC has a total of nine ranked teams with No. 18 Tennessee and No. 23 Missouri.
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The SEC is the only conference to ever have seven teams in the top 12. The SEC also had that many in the top 12 the week of Oct. 5, 2025.
The Big Ten’s 1-2 punch was short-lived: Ohio State and Oregon had given the Big Ten the top two teams in the preseason rankings for the first time in 65 years. The Buckeyes did their part to stay No. 1 with their rout of Ball State. The Ducks, tied with Boise State in the middle of the fourth quarter before winning 34-27, dropped to No. 6.
Still, the Big Ten has seven ranked teams with No. 5 Indiana, No. 14 USC, No. 16 Penn State, No. 19 Washington and No. 21 Iowa joining Ohio State and Oregon.
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Extra points
The Group of Six, which has not had a Top 25 team yet this season, does have Boise State with the most voting points among unranked teams while Memphis has the fifth-most. Those teams meet in Boise, Idaho, on Saturday for a game that could have major CFP implications. … No. 7 Miami is ranked in the top 10 in a Week 1 in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2003-04. … Six Top 25 teams play opponents from the Football Championship Subdivision this week.
Olson is an Associated Press college football writer based in Omaha, Nebraska. He also covers the Big Ten, the NCAA, the College Football Playoff alongside local teams Nebraska and Creighton.
Prince George has started at Eton College, and the young Royal was joined by his parents, Prince William and Princess Kate, on his first day. However, his father appears to have been pictured in an “unlikely fight”
Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor
10:17, 09 Sep 2026Updated 12:54, 09 Sep 2026
It’s been a big week for the Royal family, as Prince George recently stepped through the gates of Eton College as a pupil for the very first time. However, though it was a huge day for the young prince, it was his father, Prince William, who appeared to catch people’s attention.
Images have surfaced on X showing Prince George arriving at Eton accompanied by Prince William and Princess Kate, though one particular moment caught observers off guard. Numerous onlookers drew attention to the incident after it was captured on camera, and it certainly proved a distraction for more than a few royal enthusiasts.
Reacting to Prince William’s incident on the school journey, one social media user commented: “Prince William knows how to put his son at ease. Struggle with your umbrella.”
Another shared photographs alongside the caption: “Prince William got in a fight earlier today (September 8), with an umbrella. Clearly the umbrella won and he said ‘sod it, I’ll get wet’.”
The images sparked considerable amusement, depicting the future King apparently wrestling with an unruly umbrella as photographers snapped away. The brolly turned inside out and William visibly struggled to keep it under control in the rain — a sight that appeared to leave Kate, George and onlookers alike thoroughly entertained.
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One user wrote: “He must have so much knowledge about Eton that he’s passing down to George.” Another added: “I have a perfect record of losing every umbrella fight I’ve ever had.”
A third replied: “Some light entertainment for George who was probably a bag of nerves.” Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I love how the other two are enjoying his tussle!”
A further user shared comparable photographs with the caption: “Another cute photo from Eton yesterday. Prince William dealing with a malfunctioning umbrella right before they walked across the quad for the photo call.”
On Tuesday (September 8), the Prince and Princess of Wales also released photographs of the young Prince on his first day, posted alongside the caption: “George’s first day at Eton.”
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The images show George grinning broadly, dressed in pinstripe trousers, a white shirt and a black jacket, beaming as he posed for the cameras.
The photographs have garnered over 900,000 likes since being posted, with numerous comments from followers struck by how tall and smart he appeared.
One wrote: “Aww! Prince George! It feels like you were born five minutes ago. Happy first day at Eton!”
Another commented: “He looks so grown up. And such a lovely mix of both William and Catherine! Wishing Prince George good luck and every success as he studies at Eton.”
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A third person added: “These pictures are so beautiful! Prince George isn’t a baby anymore and he is looking more and more like his dad. I wish him all the best at Eton! I’m sure he will have a great time there.”
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