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NewsBeat

Shaun Edwards back in England as RFU told to urgently act

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Wales Online

Here are the latest rugby headlines on Sunday, May 31.

Edwards in England as RFU urged to make move

Shaun Edwards’ impending exit from France has put a number of major rugby nations on red alert, with the former Wales defence coach back in England amid reports he is about to be let go by the French Rugby Federation two years before the end of his contract.

Edwards was guest of honour at rugby league’s Challenge Cup final at Wembley where his former side Wigan Warriors claimed the trophy, presenting players with their medals as news broke in France of his uncertain future.

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Reports in France claim Edwards has lost the full support of head coach Fabien Galthié and is about to be replaced by Gérald Bastide, who previously held the role between 2015 and 2017. Galthié and his assistant coaches recently met in Narbonne to discuss selection ahead of the upcoming friendly against England A and the Nations Cup fixtures against New Zealand, Australia and Japan in July but Edwards was absent.

The RFU will come under huge pressure to make a move for Edwards, who is widely seen as the best English coach England have never had, despite holding tentative talks on more than one occasion. Edwards’ availability comes weeks after head coach Steve Borthwick, who currently has Richard Wigglesworth as his defence coach, survived an internal review after a disastrous Six Nations.

Former England international Andy Goode is among those urging English rugby bosses to make a move immediately.

He said: “If the news of Shaun Edwards parting ways with France rugby are true you’d hope Bill Sweeney (RFU CEO) has the cojones to pick up the phone and offer him a 5 year deal to run through the next 2 World Cups. We can’t miss out on him again!”

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As for Wales, they have been without a defence coach since Steve Tandy took over but have now appointed former Scotland international Peter Murchie from this summer.

Edwards has previously spoken of his ambition to coach international rugby in the southern hemisphere and also believes he has the capability to be a head coach at the highest level.

Adams makes Cardiff vow for next season

Josh Adams is adamant Cardiff’s season has been a success and is quietly confident they can kick on next season.

Cardiff reached the United Rugby Championship play-offs for the first time but slipped to a 44-21 quarter-final defeat to the Stormers in Cape Town.

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But given all the off field distractions Adams insists finishing in sixth in the league should be viewed as a success for his side.

“We are disappointed with that result but throughout the season we have been excellent,” Adams told S4C.

“We deserved to be in a game like this. We fought very well right until the end. There’s a lot to be said for this young team. There’s a lot of growth for us to do as well.

“We are looking ahead to next season and hopefully we can improve as well. It has been very successful.

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“We knew at the start of the season we wanted to finish in the top eight. That was our target and we finished sixth. We’ve been in the top eight throughout the whole season.”

Adams is quietly confident Cardiff will improve next season.

“I think as a group some boys are moving on and there are some new boys coming in over the summer,” he told S4C.

“We just want to build. There’s a lot of growing for this team to do.

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“We want to be back here next season as well.”

Munster knocked out of URC play-offs

Bulls ran in six tries as they progressed to the semi-finals of the United Rugby Championship with a comprehensive 45-14 victory over Munster in Pretoria.

The South African side flew out of the traps and scored two tries in the first eight minutes when Embrose Papier crossed under the posts following a neat attack off a scrum penalty advantage before Kurt-Lee Arendse went over to help them into a 14-0 lead.

Handre Pollard slotted a penalty to further extend the Bulls’ lead but Munster responded with a couple of tries of their own through Jack O’Donoghue and Alex Nankivell to narrow the deficit to three points.

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Munster’s hard work was undone at the end of the half as the Bulls restored their 17-point lead with two tries before the interval, Johan Grobbelaar striking from close range before Cameron Hanekom scored on the stroke of half-time.

Bulls were threatening to run away it and got their first try of the second half in the 54th minute when Papier claimed his second of the afternoon and the hosts’ fifth.

Stravino Jacobs went over in the corner to round off the scoring with the Bulls’ sixth try of the afternoon to ensure they go through to face Glasgow in the last-four clash.

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Jamie Conlan-backed Irish soldier lands first round KO win and targets fight on big show

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Belfast Live

He stopped his opponent in just 79 seconds

Lee Reeves needed just 79 seconds to dispatch Hungarian opponent Andras Balogh at Leopardstown racecourse on Saturday night, extending his professional record to 16-1.

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A precisely executed left hook to the body from the Limerick fighter, who has spent much of his career competing in Canada, sent the 22-year-old crashing face-first to the canvas with no chance of recovery.

Reeves, who combines his boxing career with roles as an Irish soldier and model, had hoped to accumulate more ring time ahead of a potential 3Arena bout on Pierce O’Leary’s August 1 card, possibly facing Gary Cully, but the swift finish at the Foxrock venue meant otherwise.

“You can only fight what’s in front of you, it’s exciting what’s to come after this, I would have liked more of a test, but at the same time I’m blessed with my power and my athleticism that I’m able to do that to these fellas, where I see other Irish fighters that fight guys like this and end up winning by a round,” Reeves commented. “That’s never going to be me.

“We’re looking at anyone that wants it on August 1. We’ve got Gary Cully, we have Senan Kelly and I don’t know who else. I just want to fight on August 1. I want to be on a big show and I’m going to put on a show so please God we have an answer soon.”, reports the Irish Mirror.

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“I never had a massively decorated amateur career so the fact that I live the life now and I’m world class, now I can reap the rewards and show what I’m capable of.

“Whereas before I was doing it in Madison Square Garden or in Toronto and don’t get me wrong, that’s a dream, but to be able to show your hard work to the people that actually care about you, that is a dream.”

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Now being managed by Jamie Conlan and David McGinley, Reeves spoke about how his military career has complemented his boxing ambitions.

“The Defence Forces is the greatest job in the world if you want to stay fit, if you want to be ready, if you want to be a good human being. They will give you the structure to do that. I think if anything it has been an additive to my career,” he stated.

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“The 12th Battalion Limerick, I’m one of the main boxing coaches in there now, we’re upgrading every year.”

While the 3Arena looms large as the next milestone for the 31-year-old southpaw, a homecoming bout in Limerick remains a cherished ambition for the fighter.

“The talent that’s there, the hard work that’s there and the amazing nights that can be there, it’s super exciting,” Reeves said on the current crop of Limerick boxers.

“Dave and Jamie potentially after we win a big one on August 1, maybe we can bring a big night back to Limerick.”

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Voters in California governor’s race to decide future of state government

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Voters in California governor's race to decide future of state government

One of the country’s messiest and most consequential governor’s races is hurtling toward an inflection point on Tuesday in California.

Voters are looking for a replacement for Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, and their decision will help determine the future of a state government that is a testing ground for progressive ideas and a punching bag for Republican President Donald Trump. California is not only the nation’s most populous state, it has one of the world’s largest economies and is home to Hollywood tastemakers, Silicon Valley disrupters and Central Valley farmers.

The race was upended in April when Rep. Eric Swalwell, who had been consolidating support among establishment Democrats, was accused of sexual assault and dropped out.

California eliminated partisan primaries in 2010 in favor of a “ jungle primary.” All voters will get the full list of candidates, and the top two finishers will advance to the general election regardless of party.

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Two polls conducted in mid-to-late May suggested that Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton each have the support of about 2 in 10 likely voters. In one of the polls, Democrat Tom Steyer landed closer to Becerra and Hilton, with Republican Chad Bianco and Democrat Katie Porter trailing further behind, but similar shares of voters were supporting Steyer, Bianco and Porter in the other poll. None of the other candidates were polling in double digits in either poll.

Among the 61 names on the ballot, money and attention have accumulated around a handful of candidates with track records in politics. Here’s a look at those top contenders.

Xavier Becerra, Democrat

Becerra has a 35-year history in California and national politics. He was a member of Democratic leadership in the U.S. House when then-Gov. Jerry Brown picked him to be California attorney general after Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate. He used that perch to aggressively fight Trump and his agenda in court during the president’s first term.

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He later served in President Joe Biden’s cabinet as secretary of Health and Human Services.

That experience is at the core of his pitch to voters as a steady hand to guide California and stand up to Trump. It has also invited scrutiny.

Some Biden administration alumni have disparaged his record as health secretary, and he has faced persistent questions since a former top aide was convicted of stealing his campaign funds.

After Swalwell dropped out, Becerra consolidated support from many of California’s Democratic power players, including major labor unions, Planned Parenthood and the LGBTQ rights group Equality California.

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Steve Hilton, Republican

Trump’s endorsement gives Hilton a leg up with Republicans and perhaps the clearest path of any of the candidates into the general election. But it could be a liability in November in a state that voted overwhelmingly against the Republican president. Hilton largely avoided mentioning Trump unless prompted during a series of debates.

Hilton is a conservative commentator and former Fox New host. Originally from England, he advised former British Prime Minister David Cameron.

In a nod to the dominance of Democrats in California, he is urging voters to elect a Republican as a check on the majority in Sacramento. In contrast with Bianco’s focus on cultural issues, Hilton’s message is tied more closely with the traditional Republican focus on lower taxes and smaller government. He has pledged to make people’s first $100,000 of income tax free and to dramatically lower gas prices.

Tom Steyer, Democrat

The billionaire founder of a San Francisco-based hedge fund, Steyer — or his face, at least — is everywhere ahead of the primary. His record-breaking spending, mostly from his personal fortune, has made his advertising inescapable. That has helped him become one of the race’s frontrunners.

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Steyer, who has never held elected office, first made a name for himself as a donor to Democratic politicians and groups committed to fighting climate change. He bankrolled a campaign calling for Trump’s impeachment during his first term, and he later financed his own campaign for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination but dropped out after a disappointing showing in early-state primaries and caucuses.

Steyer is running as a progressive populist, railing against the political power wielded by special interests and corporations. His message has endeared him to unlikely allies for a billionaire financier, including the Bernie Sanders-aligned group Our Revolution.

Matt Mahan, Democrat

As mayor of San Jose, Mahan is a moderate Democrat rooted in the pro-innovation ethos of Silicon Valley. His business-friendly pitch and his own background as an entrepreneur have made him a favorite with some in the tech world.

Mahan says California should get “back to basics,” emphasizing technocratic problem solving over factional skirmishes. He entered the race late as an outsider to Sacramento leadership, building a statewide profile mainly by criticizing Newsom and the Legislature’s response to homelessness and crime.

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His backing from tech executives — and their millions of dollars — has been controversial in some corners of the party, particularly among labor unions and populists worried Silicon Valley elites wield too much power.

Still, he has struggled to consolidate support on the pro-business left, and even some of his benefactors are hedging their bets. Google co-founder Sergey Brin and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale also gave to Republican Steve Hilton.

Katie Porter, Democrat

Once a college professor, Porter made a name for herself with a whiteboard and simple policy messages during three terms representing Orange County in Congress. Her verbal sparring with business executives testifying on Capitol Hill went viral.

Porter is leaning on her populist, anti-corporate background, arguing that she can fight on behalf of normal Californians against powerful interests. Before running for office, she was California’s independent monitor of banks in the national mortgage settlement following the 2008 financial crisis.

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Her grasp of policy has helped her amass support from newspaper editorial boards. But she has battled an image as a mercurial leader. Leaked videos showed her berating an aide who could be seen behind her in a Zoom video and threatening to walk out of a television interview. She has apologized and pledged to treat people more respectfully.

Porter ran for Senate in 2024, but she failed to make it through the primary.

Antonio Villaraigosa, Democrat

The former mayor of Los Angeles and speaker of the state Assembly has struggled to gain traction after more than a decade out of public office.

A one-time union organizer, Villaraigosa was the first Latino mayor of Los Angeles in more than a century, a role he filled from 2005 to 2013.

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Villaraigosa is pitching his experience in LA and the state Capitol, running as a pragmatic, centrist problem solver in an implicit contrast with his Democratic rivals emphasizing their commitment to a progressive ideology.

Villaraigosa’s roots are in the Southern California political ecosystem, which would be a contrast after four terms of Brown and Newsom, both governors from the San Francisco Bay Area.

He ran for governor in 2018 but finished third in the primary.

Chad Bianco, Republican

Bianco is the sheriff of Riverside County and is emphasizing his three-decade career in law enforcement, pledging to tackle crime and homelessness.

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A staunch Trump supporter, Bianco stoked national notoriety when his office seized 1,000 boxes of election material including more than a half million ballots from a 2025 special election on redistricting. He says it is part of a legitimate criminal investigation, but critics see it as a nod to discredited conspiracy theories that have motivated Trump’s base. The state Supreme Court in April ordered him to halt the probe.

The seizure put him at odds with California’s Democratic attorney general and raised his profile among Republicans.

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Blood test could detect Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s 17 years early

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Daily Record

An experimental blood test may be able to detect Alzheimer’s disease almost two decades before a typical diagnosis

A groundbreaking blood test could identify a devastating illness nearly two decades before a conventional diagnosis. New research has revealed that this test may predict Alzheimer’s disease 17 years ahead of the typical timeframe.

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The results, published in the Journal of Physical Chemistry B, also indicate this test might detect Parkinson’s disease at an early stage. According to Study Finds, the research examined the application of an innovative sensor known as the immuno-infrared sensor (iRS).

This sensor has the capability to identify abnormal protein alterations in blood associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, potentially years before symptoms emerge. Drawing on a substantial population study, it forecasted Alzheimer’s disease risk up to 17 years prior to clinical diagnosis.

The technology functions by detecting structural changes in brain-related proteins within blood samples, identifying an early warning sign that existing blood tests overlook. But, it’s crucial to note that this test hasn’t yet received approval for widespread use and needs additional testing.

How the sensor works

Both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease have been associated with an abnormal accumulation of proteins in the brain. In Alzheimer’s, this is triggered by the progressive accumulation of two proteins called amyloid (creating plaques surrounding cells) and tau (creating tangles within cells). In Parkinson’s, the damaged brain cells frequently build up unusual protein deposits known as Lewy bodies, which hold a protein called alpha-synuclein. Rather than measuring whether a protein existed or not, the sensor identified whether it had begun to alter shape, providing a far earlier indication.

Following a blood sample being collected, an infrared light is shone onto proteins extracted from the sample. The sensor then establishes how advanced the misfolding process has become.

The research utilised an existing population-based study drawing on blood samples from a subset of 10,000 participants, discovering that the sensor predicted Alzheimer’s disease risk up to 17 years before any symptoms appeared, with accuracy levels as high as 0.82 out of a maximum 1.0.

Among a smaller group who had already mentioned mild memory issues, the test predicted progression to full clinical Alzheimer’s disease six years ahead, with an accuracy score of 0.94. For Parkinson’s disease, the sensor was tested on spinal fluid samples in a discovery and independent validation study, reaching 94 per cent sensitivity and 97 per cent specificity.

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Blood-based Parkinson’s results were also documented, with an accuracy score of 0.94, 87 per cent sensitivity, and 97 per cent specificity, though that specific study was a preprint at the time and hadn’t yet completed peer review.

Study limitations

However, the study has its limitations. The report analysed and combined existing research instead of presenting entirely new clinical trial data.

Additionally, some of the performance figures cited, including the predictive accuracy statistics for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, come from previously published studies referenced in the paper, rather than from new experimental data. The Parkinson’s blood-based results mentioned were, at the time of publication, only available as a preprint study and hadn’t yet been peer reviewed.

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The ALS-related findings are characterised as a feasibility study, indicating they represent very preliminary evidence. For widespread population screening, the test still needs regulatory certification in Europe and FDA approval in the United States, and capacity would need to be substantially scaled up.

Moreover, one declared competing interest is that the corresponding author, Klaus Gerwert, is the founder and CEO of betaSENSE GmbH, which is linked to the commercialisation of this technology.

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Niall Horan recalls his final encounter with Liam Payne before One Direction star’s death

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Niall Horan recalls his final encounter with Liam Payne before One Direction star’s death

Niall Horan has said he was in denial when he heard the news of Liam Payne’s death.

Payne died in October 2024 after falling from a third-story hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He was 31 years old.

In a new interview with The Times, Horan, 32, said he was with his One Direction bandmate in Argentina just weeks before his death. “I’m glad of that, it means my last memory of him was happy,” he said.

Payne had flown in to Argentina to see Horan perform on tour, with a video of the moment – in which Payne is seen happily supporting his former bandmate – circulating online.

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“It still feels surreal,” continued Horan. “On day one I was, like, ‘Nah, it didn’t happen.’ Our friendship was a bond that was there forever even if we hadn’t seen each other for a while and it’s wild that one day, like the flick of a switch, he’s gone.”

Horan said that “all our families” have remained in touch since Payne’s death two years ago, adding that there is a “light and shade” to his grief.

“When I think of Liam’s passing, there is sadness, but it also makes me laugh and smirk because of the memories we had,” Horan said. “I’ll go to places and think of something stupid in a hotel or something random that makes me laugh.”

He continued: “We always had good fun in Australia because we were able to get out and go to the beach. Liam wasn’t too bad at surfing. I can barely swim.”

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(l to r) Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles pictured during an interview on Capital Breakfast with Dave Berry and Lisa Snowdon in 2012 (Yui Mok)
(l to r) Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles pictured during an interview on Capital Breakfast with Dave Berry and Lisa Snowdon in 2012 (Yui Mok) (PA Wire)

The Irish singer has dedicated one of the tracks – titled “End of an Era” – on his forthcoming solo album to his late bandmate. “I think it’s his type of song,” he replied when asked what he thinks Payne would make of it. “He liked Coldplay. He loved songs like ‘You & I’ by One Direction, songs that went somewhere.”

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Speaking about his bandmate Louis Tomlinson’s fellow tribute to Payne, titled “Dark to Light”, Horan said: “We have this shared thing, but so do the fans, they had a loss too.”

Together with Payne, Tomlinson, Harry Styles, and Zayn Malik, Horan shot to fame when One Direction was formed on The X Factor in 2010. The five-piece went on to achieve staggering international success with hit songs such as “What Makes You Beautiful” (2011) and “Night Changes” (2014).

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Speaking to The Independent in October last year, Tomlinson echoed the same sentiments of disbelief at hearing news of Payne’s death. “It’s something I’ll never really accept, I don’t think,” he said.

Payne’s funeral was held in Amersham, Buckingham in November 2024, and was attended by his family, friends and former bandmates.

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Virgin TVs in UK upgraded with 2 extra channels for free

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Virgin TVs in UK upgraded with 2 extra channels for free

Virgin TV has launched two brand-new 24/7 channels that are available free of charge for current customers.

Bosses say the move is to ensure there is “something for every type of viewer to enjoy, any time of the day or night”.

Virgin TVs in UK upgraded with 2 extra channels for free

Both are brand-new streaming channels (also known as Fast Ad Supported TV – FAST), and will be showcasing two of the most popular shows in the country.

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The first is 8 out of 10 Cats, on channel 250, hosted by Jimmy Carr.

The British comedy panel show aired from 2005 to 2021 and featured regular team captains Sean Lock, Dave Spikey, Jason Manford, Jon Richardson, Rob Beckett, Aisling Bea and Katherine Ryan.

The second channel will show constant episodes of beloved BBC gameshow Pointless, on channel 251.

Hosted by Alexander Armstrong, the show has aired more than 2,000 episodes since its debut in 2009.

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Which Virgin TVs can access the new channels?

8 out of 10 Cats (150) and Pointless (251) are both available to stream to all Virgin TV360 and Stream customers, directly from their set-top box.

The channels can be found on the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG).

They are operated by Banijay Rights and join the existing 37 streaming channels available to Virgin TV customers already, which include U&Transport, British Screen Classics and Inside Crime.

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David Bouchier, Chief TV and Entertainment Officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “We are launching two brand new streaming channels to give our customers even more of the best entertainment from Virgin TV, at zero extra cost.

“With 8 out of 10 Cats and Pointless, comedy and quiz show lovers have their favourite content available on demand and 24/7. The channels join our growing FAST programming on Virgin TV, which ensures there really is something for every type of viewer to enjoy, any time of the day or night.”

Samsung TVs also upgraded with extra channels

Millions of Samsung smart TVs have also received a free upgrade recently.

The new offerings are part of Samsung TV Plus, a free streaming service integrated into Samsung smart TVs and selected Galaxy devices.

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Wrestling enthusiasts can now enjoy Wrestling Legends TV, a channel dedicated to WWE programming and behind-the-scenes content, accessible on channel 4613.

Eurovision Sport has also been launched on channel 4611, providing Olympic sports coverage, highlights, and documentaries at no extra cost.

Additionally, fans of Korean dramas can tune into new channels from Series K on channels 4254 and 4259, offering a variety of box sets and shows.

Football supporters are not left out, as a Bundesliga channel is currently showing live matches and highlights on channel 4003 during a promotional period.


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Samsung’s free streaming service is available on all Samsung Smart TVs from 2016 onwards and Samsung Galaxy Devices: Mobile & Tablet – Android 11.0 or higher.

You can watch free TV without a Samsung account, but creating one unlocks extra features.

What is your favourite TV channel? Let us know in the comments.

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Why We Should Walk Downhill More Often As We Age

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Why We Should Walk Downhill More Often As We Age

Whether it’s Japanese walking, “Jeffing” or the run-walk-run method, and even “retro walking” to help my knees, it’s safe to say I’m fond of a good stroll.

But on a recent hilly Northumberland hike, I noticed my legs felt more strained than usual: my muscles felt a little tenser, and my knees had worked harder.

This seemed most extreme after the downhill part of the walk, a change other walkers noticed too.

So, I asked experts ob-gyn Dr Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller, Chief Medical Advisor at AllTrails, and Fatema Contractor, osteopath and director at The Health Suite in Leicester, whether that post-descent twinge was a good or bad thing.

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The view on top of a hill

Which are the main muscles used in downhill walking?

Turns out the difference wasn’t just in my head – “we can often feel different muscles working” during a downhill walk,” Contractor said.

Dr Hackenmiller explained that the main muscles worked during a downhill walk include the:

These are key for stability, strength, and balance.

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“Walking downhill gives our muscles an eccentric exercise, where a muscle lengthens while under tension,” Contractor continued.

Dr Hackenmiller told HuffPost UK that “Eccentric exercise forces muscles to generate tension while lengthening, creating microscopic, healthy tears that trigger the body’s repair process and build lower-limb strength and lean muscle mass more effectively than flat-surface walking”.

Downhill walking, or “decline” walking, can help as we age

“For those going through or past menopause, [downhill walking] is brilliant for supporting healthy ageing,” Dr Hackenmiller told us, adding “This kind of muscle activation is especially valuable as we age”.

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During and after menopause, many people experience accelerated bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

But, the doctor said, “clinical studies have shown that downhill walking specifically boosts bone health by reducing the breakdown of old bone tissue”.

For her part, Contractor said the walking style involves “challenging different muscle groups and also testing balance, which is really important as we get older to help guard against falls and injury”.

Downhill walking might help with blood sugar, too, Dr Hackenmiller added.

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“Separate clinical trials also show that decline [downhill] walking sees the strongest improvement in glucose tolerance of any walking style, making it a highly accessible tool for managing metabolic health and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes”.

Who should avoid downhill walking?

Those with sensitive or damaged joints (especially sore knees), people recovering from injuries, and individuals with balance issues might want to speak to a medical professional before trying the walking style, both experts agreed.

“Walking downhill also comes with a risk of falls and injury… If you have any mobility concerns, then take it very steady, or avoid it altogether depending on your own circumstances,” Contractor said, pointing out that you can use the downhill setting on a treadmill for a lower-risk version if you like.

If you’re a beginner, going through menopause, or aren’t sure about your endurance level, starting slowly is key.

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How often should I try downhill walking for better ageing?

Contractor said that the same things that benefit the rest of us can also help people going through menopause.

Namely, “at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a week and resistance training, which is always important but becomes even more so as we age and are looking to further support our bones with muscle strength.”

So, she said, “If you can build it into your weekly exercise to add a few hills, taking in both uphill and downhill, then it can be beneficial if there are no contraindications such as knee issues or certain back conditions like advanced spinal stenosis or poor balance”.

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Arne Slot’s Celtic praise resurfaces as Liverpool exit sparks manager hunt

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Arne Slot has left Liverpool after two seasons in charge at Anfield

Arne Slot’s departure from Liverpool is poised to trigger a managerial reshuffle – and Celtic supporters are revisiting the glowing praise he gave them back in 2023 with renewed curiosity.

The Dutchman has formally left Anfield following two seasons in charge, securing the Premier League title in his first campaign during 2023/24, before an underwhelming second term saw the Reds slip to fifth place.

It wasn’t the conclusion Liverpool supporters had hoped for after Slot built upon Jurgen Klopp’s enduring legacy to claim the championship two years ago, but attention now appears to be turning towards Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as his potential successor.

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Reports have already emerged linking Slot with the vacant position at AC Milan. That’s another twist Celtic fans will be monitoring closely – former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, a popular choice among the Parkhead faithful for their own vacancy, is also being considered for the San Siro role.

Celtic have yet to reach a decision, with Dermot Desmond anticipated to hold discussions with Martin O’Neill before fully launching the hunt for their next manager, reports the Daily Record.

Slot, barely 12 months removed from lifting the Premier League trophy, represents another high-profile name supporters would eagerly welcome to Parkhead. Back in 2023, they witnessed his Feyenoord side first-hand – suffering a 2-0 defeat in the Netherlands at the start of a frustrating Champions League campaign that ultimately saw them finish bottom of Group E.

The two teams, both already out of contention in the competition, then met at Parkhead for the closing fixture of the season, which Celtic secured 2-1 courtesy of strikes from Luis Palma and Gustaf Lagerbielke.

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Ahead of that encounter, Slot, who would subsequently accept the Liverpool position half a year later, offered praise for Brendan Rodgers and his squad.

Celtic arrived following heavy setbacks against Atletico Madrid and Lazio (6-0 and 2-0 respectively) which had ended their qualification prospects.

However, Slot commented: “I think every top club always reacts after a loss. Celtic is a top club with very good players and they will react to that, especially if the stadium is full which is what I’m expecting.”

He continued: “I think, yes, I did some things from the game they played last Sunday (against Kilmarnock). But it’s more interesting for me to see how they played here against Atletico and Lazio.

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“That was impressive for me. They didn’t get what they deserved.”

Other high-profile managers including Robbie Keane, Craig Bellamy and even Roberto Martinez have been repeatedly mentioned in connection with the Parkhead post should O’Neill indeed stand down this summer.

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Nicola Sturgeon: ‘I feel I am serving a sentence for a crime I did not commit’

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The former First Minister’s estranged husband Peter Murrell pleaded guilty this week to embezzling from the SNP.

Nicola Sturgeon said she feels like she is “serving a sentence for a crime I did not commit” after her estranged husband, former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, admitted embezzling more than £400,000 from the party.

Murrell pleaded guilty this week to embezzling the sum from the SNP between 2010 and 2022.

The 61-year-old spent the money on items including a motorhome, cars, kitchen gadgets, expensive watches and pens, and more mundane purchases such as hand cream and toilet seats.

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He is set to be sentenced in June, the same month that the SNP faces two by-election contests – one in Aberdeen South and another in Arbroath and Broughty Ferry.

The SNP has faced calls for an independent inquiry into its finances.

Ms Sturgeon was Scotland’s first minister from 2014 to 2023 while Murrell served as the SNP chief executive from 2001 to 2023.

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In an interview on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme, Ms Sturgeon said she is “not going to apologise for somebody else’s crimes”.

She said: “For my own sake, but for the sake of people out there, a lot of women who end up finding themselves blamed for the actions of the men in their lives, I’m not going to contribute to that kind of sense that I am responsible for somebody else’s crimes.

“I will take responsibility for the things I do, the decisions I make. I’m sitting here with you right now, answering questions because I believe strongly in that accountability.

“But I am not responsible for the crimes that my former husband committed and I’m not going to apologise for somebody else’s crimes.”

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Ms Sturgeon previously said she had been “completely cleared and exonerated” by police and that she had been lied to by her former husband.

“(Murrell) perpetrated a crime on the SNP,” she told the BBC.

“By definition, that included me as the party leader. He misled. He deceived.

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“He is serving and will be serving a sentence for a crime he committed. I’m out here feeling as if I’m serving a sentence for a crime I did not commit.”

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Gripping new Channel 4 thriller with two Bolton stars airs tonight

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Gripping new Channel 4 thriller with two Bolton stars airs tonight

If you enjoyed Russell’s It’s A Sin, which followed a group of friends whose lives were irrevocably changed by the HIV/Aids epidemic, Tip Toe is likely to be your next must-watch.

The Bolton News attended the premiere to meet the star-studded cast and watch the first episode ahead of its broadcast.

The drama opens with a shocking and disturbing scene that immediately sets the tone for an utterly gripping first episode.

While a dark undercurrent runs throughout, hinting at the fate audiences glimpse from the outset, Russell balances the tension with moments of humour.

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Set partly in Manchester’s Canal Street, the heart of the city’s Gay Village, the opening episode offers both light and shade.

The star-studded cast of Tip ToeThe star-studded cast of Tip Toe (Image: NQ)

One moment features a hilarious drunken drag queen feud, the next delivers a heartbreaking monologue exploring the realities of being gay in 2026.

Viewers should be prepared for some genuinely shocking scenes, including moments that may leave you squirming if you’re watching alongside family members.

Yet it all contributes to the authenticity of Russell’s writing, which never shies away from difficult conversations or uncomfortable truths.

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Keen-eyed viewers will also spot two Bolton-born stars in the first episode.

Dominic Holmes (left) and Gabriel Clark (right)Dominic Holmes (left) and Gabriel Clark (right) (Image: Annabel Lee-Ellis PA)

Gabriel Clark from Harwood, best known for playing Ollie Morgan in the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, stars as Mickey.

Viewers will first see Gabriel’s character in Alan Cumming’s bar.

Dominic Holmes from Great Lever plays Regime, who is a teacher by day and drag queen by night.

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Regime’s first appearance comes when she realises some of her students have spotted her in drag at the bar.

Speaking to The Bolton News, Dominic said: “There’s a lot of amazing Northern talent in Tip Toe.

“It’s important to see people being authentic to themselves and representing where they’re from.”

Gabriel ClarkBolton star Gabriel Clark on the red carpet (Image: NQ)

Gabriel added: “I love Bolton but, growing up and being gay, I didn’t really know where my community was.

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“If I’d known Dom when I was younger, my life probably would have been very different.

“This has been one of the best things to come out of this job for me, meeting a community of Northern LGBTQ+ people, particularly from Bolton.”

Last weekend, Bolton celebrated its 11th annual Pride in Victoria Square.

Miss Toxic with fansMiss Toxic with fans at Bolton Pride 2026 (Image: Dan Dougherty)

Reflecting themes that also run through Tip Toe, organiser Kev Wright told The Bolton News: “It’s more and more important that we have events like this to maintain our voices in the area.

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“There is a dark side of things where people are afraid, they can’t be who they want to be.”

The first two episodes of Tip Toe will air on Sunday, May 31, and Monday, June 1, at 9pm on Channel 4.

The final three episodes will follow on Sunday, June 7, Monday, June 8, and Tuesday, June 9, at the same time.

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Experts explain how mountain of trapped sharks may have washed up on Welsh beach

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Wales Online

People were horrified to see so many dead sharks on a popular beach in Carmarthenshire. Now there might be an answer as to how they got there

Around 200 dead sharks that washed up on a Welsh beach may have been caught by accident by a fisherman who didn’t know what to do with such a large catch, experts believe.

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Last Sunday (May 24) people reported seeing a mountain of dead sharks tangled in netting on the sand at Pembrey Beach in Carmarthenshire. People described the sight on the beach, which is also known as Cefn Sidan, as “sad and shocking”. Stay informed on Carms news by signing up to our newsletter here.

It was unknown how the sharks ended up on the beach, with some suggesting that a net on a trawling boat might have broken and been lost at sea, while others thought it might be an abandoned catch that was washed up.

Marine Environmental Monitoring, a conservation organisation, has now provided an update. Members of the organisation have attended the beach in the past week and carried out an investigation. They confirmed that the net contained around 200 sharks.

“The net was a gill type fishing net that would have been set at sea,” a spokesperson for the group said.

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“The net was full of around 200 adult female and male Tope and Smooth-hound sharks. There was also a small handful of small cat sharks within the net. All the sharks had recently died, unfortunately most likely within the net.

“We collected several of each species and sex for further investigation. Pembrey country park then arranged disposal of the rest of the animals and net.”

It remains unclear who is responsible for the dead sharks, but the conservation group believe it could have been a fisherman who caught more than they could handle.

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The spokesperson added: “It currently isn’t possible to work out who the net belonged to but it is possible that it was a hobby ‘fisherman’ who didn’t know how to deal with it, or was maybe hand hauling from a small boat and couldn’t get it aboard due to the weight and cut it loose.

“We will be working with the Welsh government, NRW and the local authority to better understand what happened and find ways to prevent it in future.”

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