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Sunderland B&M store reopening date after refurbishment

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Sunderland B&M store reopening date after refurbishment

Located at Sunderland‘s Hylton Riverside Retail Park, the store will welcome back customers over the weekend after closing temporarily for renovations on Sunday, August 16.

The B&M Home Store is just 15 minutes down the road from the Stadium of Light.

A spokesperson for B&M said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused while we bring you a bigger and better B&M store.

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“Your newly refurbished B&M Sunderland – Hylton Riverside Retail Park store will open: Saturday August 22 2026.”

There are currently around 60 B&M stores across the North East.

The reopening is part of ongoing investment in physical retail spaces across the region.

The refurbishment comes as retailers continue to invest in physical shops, despite the substantial growth of online shopping and home delivery.

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Inside Ivanka Trump’s grueling diet and fitness routine as she continues to flaunt her incredible physique

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Earlier this month, Ivanka Trump shared stunning pictures of her family's getaway to Iceland, posing in an ice-blue bikini while taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon

Ivanka Trump has been flaunting her enviable physique all summer long.

The First Daughter, 44, has spent the last few months jet-setting around the globe to glamorous destinations like Iceland and the Bahamas.

She has been documenting the trips online with her millions of social media followers, and in many of the photos, the mother-of-three showcased her incredibly toned figure in tiny bikinis and skin-tight dresses.

Ivanka has worked extremely hard to achieve her impressive abs, previously detailing her strict diet and vigorous workout regimen. 

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And throughout her lavish summer, she’s made sure to maintain her active lifestyle.

Earlier this month, Ivanka shared stunning pictures of her family’s getaway to Iceland, posing in an ice-blue bikini while swimming in the Blue Lagoon with her flat stomach and washboard abs on full display.

In another picture posted this week from her Iceland trip, the First Daughter showcased her svelte figure in a black one-piece swimsuit as she enjoyed a dip in a spa.

The swimsuit featured a large, deep cutout in the back and left her toned arms and long legs on full display. 

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Earlier this month, Ivanka Trump shared stunning pictures of her family’s getaway to Iceland, posing in an ice-blue bikini while taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon

In another picture posted this week from her Iceland trip, the First Daughter showcased her svelte figure in a black one-piece swimsuit as she enjoyed a dip in a spa

In another picture posted this week from her Iceland trip, the First Daughter showcased her svelte figure in a black one-piece swimsuit as she enjoyed a dip in a spa

In June, after she attended her brother Donald Trump Jr’s wedding to Bettina Anderson in the Bahamas, she showed off her rock-solid abs once again, posing in a silky, see-through two-piece set over her navy blue bikini.

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She has also been a big fan of strappy dresses this summer, showing off her long legs in various resort-inspired designs by Cara Cara and Donde Esteban. 

While attending Michael Rubin’s star-studded white party in the Hamptons this year, she opted for a figure-hugging, low-cut, white fringe gown.

So, how does the jet-setting mother-of-three achieve such an enviable figure while staying so busy?

Well, it appears that Ivanka still manages to stay active even while on vacation.

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Shoehorned between photos of her enjoying beach trips, yacht rides and spa days, the blonde beauty has shared numerous snaps of herself participating in various sports.

She has posted pictures of her and her family swimming, hiking, playing golf, doing archery and even fishing.

In addition to participating in energetic activities, Ivanka has previously said that she works out four days a week, focusing on weight and strength training. 

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Does Ivanka’s intense focus on diet and fitness inspire you or set unrealistic expectations for women?

She also showed off her rock-solid abs while posting pictures from her brother Don Jr's wedding this June

She also showed off her rock-solid abs while posting pictures from her brother Don Jr’s wedding this June  

She's also been a big fan of strappy dresses this summer, showing off her long legs in various resort-inspired designs by Cara Cara
She posted pictures of her family spending time on a yacht this summer

She’s also been a big fan of strappy dresses this summer, showing off her long legs in various resort-inspired designs by Cara Cara and Donde Esteban

Shoehorned between photos of her enjoying beach trips, yacht rides and spa days, the blonde beauty has shared numerous snaps of herself participating in various sports

Shoehorned between photos of her enjoying beach trips, yacht rides and spa days, the blonde beauty has shared numerous snaps of herself participating in various sports 

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Ivanka (above last year) is a big fan of strength training

Ivanka (above last year) is a big fan of strength training 

In the past, she's taken to Instagram to share insight into her daily workouts

In the past, she’s taken to Instagram to share insight into her daily workouts 

Ivanka said on Instagram that she used to 'focus primarily on cardio, yoga, and Pilates,' but after moving to Miami, she said she 'shifted her focus to weightlifting and resistance training'

Ivanka said on Instagram that she used to ‘focus primarily on cardio, yoga, and Pilates,’ but after moving to Miami, she said she ‘shifted her focus to weightlifting and resistance training’

‘Something that I think has been a massive change for me since I moved to Miami, I started prioritizing exercise,’ Ivanka revealed during an appearance on the Skinny Confidential Him and Her podcast in January last year. 

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‘Initially, that took the form of yoga and Pilates, these things that I had done at various points of my life, but now I had the ability, because I was on my own schedule, to make them more consistent and a more regular part of my life.

‘Gradually, I started doing more resistance and weight training, and that’s when I saw a massive difference.

‘That’s when I really noticed a massive change for me, and my body composition fundamentally changed.

‘I got stronger, I got leaner and I could kind of get away with it because I’m really tall, so I can look lean even if I wasn’t strong.’

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She added: ‘Yoga and Pilates, while I enjoy them a lot more than resistance training, I was not able to develop muscle through them. I really needed this… It’s been life-changing.’

She said what really worked for her was the simple exercises, like ‘pushes,’ ‘pulls’ and ‘deadlifts.’

In addition, Ivanka and her whole family enjoy the practice of jiu-jitsu, a type of self-defense martial arts. 

She wrote: 'I believe in a strength training approach built on foundational, time-tested and simple movements - squats, deadlifts, hinges, pushes, and pulls'

She wrote: ‘I believe in a strength training approach built on foundational, time-tested and simple movements – squats, deadlifts, hinges, pushes, and pulls’

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In addition to working out, Ivanka has previously said she prioritizes her wellness routine. Above, with her husband, Jared Kushner, in September last year

In addition to working out, Ivanka has previously said she prioritizes her wellness routine. Above, with her husband, Jared Kushner, in September last year

In September 2024, she shared more insight into her daily workouts via Instagram.

‘I believe in a strength training approach built on foundational, time-tested and simple movements – squats, deadlifts, hinges, pushes, and pulls. These are the cornerstones of my workout, emphasizing functional strength for life,’ she wrote at the time. 

‘Weightlifting has enhanced not just my strength but my overall athleticism and resilience.’

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Ivanka said that ‘prioritizing form’ was also ‘essential’ to her, adding: ‘Only then do I add weight.’

‘I also incorporate a couple of short (ten-minute), high-intensity interval training sessions (such as sprints) each week to keep my cardiovascular fitness sharp and dynamic,’ she continued.

In addition to working out, Ivanka also prioritizes her wellness routine, as she explained during her appearance on the Skinny Confidential podcast.

Before a workout, she said she always adds amino acids and electrolytes to her water, which can help to balance the fluids in your body. 

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Before she goes to bed, she likes to take magnesium and uses the $35 Skinny Confidential Mouth Tape to ensure a good night’s sleep. 

As for her diet, Ivanka admitted in 2016 that before she became a mom, she didn’t focus on eating healthily at all.

Instead, she confessed to Shape magazine that she consumed food ‘like a teenager,’ feasting on ‘carbs three times a day, usually in the form of pasta or pizza.’

She also never cooked meals at home, as she once told Oprah: ‘Until I got married, the only pieces of cookware I owned were a couple of pots and a George Foreman grill from college.’

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But after getting married and welcoming her daughter Arabella in 2011, all of that changed.

She began focusing on a protein-rich diet, and in October 2024, she revealed on Instagram that she ‘consumes between 30 to 50 grams of protein per meal.’

‘Slowly, I started to actually enjoy, if not crave, these healthier options. Now healthy eating is the norm for me, especially at breakfast and lunch,’ Ivanka told Shape in 2016. 

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Kyiv seeks Elon Musk’s permission to hit Putin’s missile launchers with Starlink drones

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Kyiv seeks Elon Musk’s permission to hit Putin’s missile launchers with Starlink drones

Ukrainian drones hit Russian oil refinery

A Ukrainian drone attack killed one person and wounded four others when a car was struck Friday in Russia’s Belgorod region near the village of Razumnoye, local officials said, adding that two of the injured were in serious condition.

Zelenskyy said a Ukrainian drone attack hit an oil refinery in Perm, more than 1,600km from his country’s border. Also struck was the Marinovka military airfield in Russia’s Volgograd region, he said.

The Russian online news outlet Astra reported that the Ukrainian drone had set ablaze a Lukoil-operated oil refinery in Perm. Local officials said damage was recorded at an unidentified “industrial facility.”

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Russia’s Defence Ministry said its air defences overnight intercepted 325 Ukrainian drones over 15 Russian regions, as well as Crimea. The peninsula was illegally annexed by Moscow in 2014.

Alisha Rahaman Sarkar22 August 2026 04:16

Russia exploits Ukraine’s shortage of defensive systems

Moscow’s forces have in recent months intensified their ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv, exploiting Ukraine’s chronic shortage of US-made Patriot air defense interceptors, the sole weapon in its arsenal able to shoot down the missiles.

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Large-scale Russian strikes have become a regular occurrence this summer. Just over two weeks ago, a Russian attack on Kyiv and its surrounding region killed 17 people, and nine were killed in the city two days before that.

The United Nations said last week that Kyiv was one of the hardest hit cities in July, with at least 54 civilians killed and 202 injured.

Earlier on Friday, a Russian drone attack on Ukraine’s Kharkiv region killed two women, aged 73 and 66, and wounded two others, said regional head Oleh Syniehubov.

Ukraine shot down or suppressed 107 out of 135 drones launched by Russia overnight, according to a statement from Ukraine’s air force on Telegram.

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Dan Haygarth22 August 2026 04:00

Comment – Putin’s empty threats to the UK are the last gasp of a dying Russia

Dan Haygarth22 August 2026 03:00

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French, British, German leaders to co-chair meeting on Ukraine on Monday

French president Emmanuel Macron, Andy Burnham and German chancellor Friedrich Merz will ⁠co-chair ​a ⁠meeting of the so-called Coalition ⁠of the ​Willing ⁠group of ‌pro-Ukrainian countries on Monday, the French ‌president’s office ‌said on Friday.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr ⁠Zelenskiy will be present in the meeting which will be attended in person ‌and remotely, Macron’s ​office said, ‌without ⁠specifying who will ⁠be in ‌person.

Dan Haygarth22 August 2026 02:00

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Russia test-fires missiles off disputed islands days after Putin’s visit angered Japan

The Pacific Fleet said on Thursday a unit equipped with the Bastion coastal missile system, which is stationed on Etorofu, simulated an attack on enemy warships and hit all its targets at a range of about 300km.

A guided missile cruiser and a nuclear-powered submarine took part, according to reports.

“We cannot tolerate moves to strengthen military power on the Four Northern Islands because they go against our country’s stance on the territories,” Japanese foreign minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, said during a visit to Oman.

Dan Haygarth22 August 2026 01:00

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Russia designates independent Mediazona news outlet as ‘foreign agent’

Russia’s Justice Ministry ​on Friday declared the independent Mediazona news outlet a “foreign agent”, a designation used to label foreign-funded organisations that ⁠it says are engaged in political activity.

Mediazona “disseminated false information about Russia’s law enforcement system” and a number of its ⁠staff have already ​been labelled ⁠as foreign agents, the ministry said.

The term “foreign agent” carries negative ⁠Soviet-era connotations and subjects those designated ​to ⁠extra government scrutiny.

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Mediazona said ‌via its channel on the Telegram messaging app that this was the second ‌time that Russian authorities ‌had declared it to be a “foreign agent”.

Separately, its editor Yegor Skovoroda — who like the outlet’s ⁠other journalists now works outside Russia — described the ministry’s statement as “incredibly crazy”.

The news outlet was first designated as a “foreign agent” in 2021, and the Justice Ministry removed it from the register ‌of authorised media organisations in Russia.

Russian ​state communications regulator Roskomnadzor ‌blocked Mediazona’s website within ⁠Russia in March 2022, shortly ⁠after Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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Dan Haygarth21 August 2026 23:59

Russian general Lyamin formally takes charge of new drone warfare branch

Colonel-general Denis Lyamin has assumed the duties ⁠of head of Russia’s Unmanned Systems Forces, the ⁠Russian ​Defence ⁠Ministry said on ⁠Friday.

President Vladimir Putin ​on ⁠5 August ‌appointed Lyamin to lead the newly ‌established branch ‌of the military responsible for ⁠drone warfare.

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The Defence Ministry said on Friday that Defence Minister Andrei Belousov had ‌signed the ​relevant order, ‌formally installing ⁠Lyamin in the ⁠post.

Dan Haygarth21 August 2026 23:00

Zelensky condemns ‘cowardly’ Russian attack on shopping centre

Russian drones struck a shopping centre in the city of Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine on Friday, killing 14 people and wounding scores of others, authorities said.

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The city is the hometown of Volodymyr Zelensky, who described the attack as a double-tap strike, in which an initial wave of drones hit the area, followed by a second wave as rescue workers responded.

“Attacks like these are nothing less than terrorist acts,” Zelensky wrote on social media.

Zelensky condemns ‘cowardly’ Russian attack on shopping centre

Dan Haygarth21 August 2026 22:31

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Russian ‘double-tap’ strike on shopping centre in Ukraine kills 15 and wounds 130

At least 15 people were killed and more than 130 wounded on Friday when several Russian drones struck a shopping centre in central ⁠Ukraine, authorities said, with president Volodymyr Zelensky promising a response to what he called an “act of barbarism.”

Regional governor Oleksandr Hanzha said that 22 children were among the wounded in the daytime attack ⁠on the city of Kryvyi ​Rih, ⁠which is Zelenskiy’s hometown.

“There are 29 people in serious condition, including five children,” Hanzha said.

Dan Haygarth21 August 2026 21:59

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Zelensky slams Russian attack on shopping centre in his home town

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called out Russia for a “cynical and despicable” attack on a shopping centre in his home town, Kryvyi Rig, on Friday that killed at least five people and injured more than 50.

“An absolutely cynical and despicable strike was carried out by the Russians against an ordinary shopping center in Kryvyi Rig,” he said on X, adding: “Five deaths have been reported”.

The shopping centre hit by a Russian drone attack, in Kryvyi Rih, Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukraine, August 21, 2026. Prosecutor General’s Office via Telegram/Handout via REUTERS (Telegram/Prosecutor General’s Office)

Jessie Williams21 August 2026 21:00

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Jeremy Vine dropped as host of carers awards ceremony after backlash

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Jeremy Vine dropped as host of carers awards ceremony after backlash

The Channel 5 presenter was announced as leading the 2026 Carers UK Awards earlier this week, which seeks to “shine a spotlight” on the contribution of unpaid carers, but the decision was met with outrage on social media.

Campaigners had criticised the decision and said Vine should be replaced as he “attacks disabled people for clicks”.

Mike O’Brien, a campaigner for unpaid carers, said Carers UK had “chosen to stab us all in the back” by choosing Vine as the host.

“This man has made clear his hate for disabled people, the vulnerable and unpaid carers, yet you chose him to host the awards ceremony,” he wrote on Twitter/X.

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“I sincerely hope you see the error of your ways and the anger you have caused within the unpaid carer community and change your minds about this awful decision.”

Following the backlash, Carers UK announced that Vine would no longer be hosting the event.

Jeremy VineJeremy Vine (Image: Channel 5/PA)

A spokesperson for Carers UK said: “Following discussions with Jeremy Vine, we’ve made the decision that he will no longer be hosting this year’s Carers UK Awards.

“Jeremy has been incredibly supportive of Carers UK including through his radio show, and we’re grateful for that support.

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“But after listening carefully to our community over the past couple of days, we’ve agreed that the focus of the evening should stay entirely on celebrating carers and the individuals and organisations that support them, without the risk of other content becoming a distraction.”

Vine also took to Twitter/X to address the controversy.

“Because I host debates about welfare, benefits etc I see I was a controversial choice to be the (obviously unpaid) host of the prestigious @CarersUK awards so I’m very happy to stand aside and give someone else the honour of doing it,” the broadcaster said.

“I originally said yes to support a friend who watched her husband die in a long and painful process, and I didn’t want to let her down. I see her as a heroine.

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“I’m not a campaigner, and guests on my shows know I have to be impartial, but I’m very much aware of the vital role unpaid carers play. I believe we’ve only ever covered them sympathetically.

“I wish @CarersUK well with their excellent event and will cheer the winners from a distance.”

Earlier this week, on August 16, Vine’s programme on Channel 5 ran a segment in response to Reform UK’s policy announcements on benefits, titled: “Reform right to call for cuts to disability benefits?”

Another Facebook video from August 18 had the caption: “Should benefits claimants clean the high street?”

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Man accused of injuring man in Bromley Cross crash in court

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Man accused of injuring man in Bromley Cross crash in court

Michael Corris, 56, was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving after Lewis Rimmer, 41, was injured in a crash outside Sainsbury’s in Bromley Cross on October 27, 2025.

Corris was also charged with drug driving in connection with the same incident and this week appeared for the first time before Wigan and Leigh Magistrates’ Court.

A spokesperson for the courts and tribunal service confirmed that Corris did not enter a plea for the charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and pleaded not guilty to drug driving.

He is set to appear for a further hearing at the Crown Court next month.

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The case was heard at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court (Image: Newsquest)

Corris was charged back in April this year, several weeks after Mr Rimmer came out of hospital on March 31.

Speaking at the time, Mr Rimmer’s wife, Sarah, said: “After 22 weeks in hospital we got daddy back.

“The journey isn’t over yet, but for now we are concentrating on us.”

Friend of Mr Rimmer’s, Andy Tonge, said: “Lewis is now back at home and adjusting to a more restricted way of life due to his current mobility challenges.

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Lewis Rimmer, wife Sarah and their two daughters (Image: Public)

“He will require a very complex operation later this year on his right pelvis and hip to realign them, with the aim of improving the usability of his right side.

“The road ahead is still a long one, but he continues to surprise us all with his outlook and resilience.

“In the meantime, it has been great that we are able to see him more easily, including spending time together over the weekend watching the Masters golf and having a right laugh with a group of the lads.

“The staff at Preston and Salford hospitals also deserve particular recognition.

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Lewis Rimmer, wife Sarah and their two daughters (Image: Public)

“While we appreciate this is their profession and what they love to do, the care and support they have shown has been exceptional – the NHS at its very best.”

Corris, of Turton Road, Bromley Cross, is next due to appear before Bolton Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on Friday, September 18.

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Interview With A Green Peer: Has Zack Polanski’s Party Blown It?

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Interview With A Green Peer: Has Zack Polanski’s Party Blown It?

Zack Polanski was the politician to watch less than a year ago.

His election as Green Party leader attracted a significant number of voters who had become disillusioned with Keir Starmer’s government.

He quickly secured notable support from the electorate with his promises to deliver “eco-populism” and take on Nigel Farage over key social issues.

The London Assembly member’s new approach transformed the Greens from the fringes of mainstream politics to a substantial group worth voting for and the party membership tripled within six months of Polanski getting into post.

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The Greens went from strength to strength, winning the Gorton and Denton by-election and even getting into second place in the national opinion polls behind Reform UK in March.

The Greens seemed to be playing a major part in disrupting the two-party system as they provided a left-wing counterbalance to Reform’s sudden rise.

But then the wheels seem to come off the entire operation earlier this year.

Polanski attracted major backlash for commenting on the police response to the Golders Green attack and, more recently, for refusing to apologise after reposting a photo of a guillotine t-shirt which referred to Nigel Farage.

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The party has slipped down to fourth place in the polls since Andy Burnham replaced Starmer in No.10, as the Labour party claws back its supporters under new leadership.

Polanski has also attracted backlash over his own delayed reaction to the summer drought, though the summer heatwaves and renewed fears about climate change should have heightened interest in the Greens.

While he did hold a press conference calling for the government to hold an emergency COBRA meeting earlier this month, the Green leader’s demand only came after Britain had already endured several heatwaves.

That has led to fears, including from his own party, that he is not focusing enough on the climate.

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With growing scepticism towards Polanski’s leadership, has the party missed its big moment?

Natalie Bennett, who was the Green Party leader from 2012 to 2016, defended Polanski when speaking to HuffPost UK’s Commons People podcast, insisting he had not moved calls for action on climate further down his list of priorities.

The Green peer said: “If you look at the press coverage of my first press conference, you see people saying, ‘Oh Natalie is changing the Green Party, she’s not talking so much about climate and nature, she’s talking about social issues.’”

“The Greens have always understood that economic and environmental justice are indivisible,” she said.

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On Polanski’s social media slip-ups, Bennett said: “I think people are really glad when they have a sense of a real person, rather than necessarily a carefully curated heavily-edited, heavily-filtered – in several sense of the term – person who has just been presented to them like an advertising product.”

The party peer also shrugged off concerns about the Greens’ decline with the public, saying “polls go up, poll go down”.

“What we saw in May was the Green Party peaking at absolutely the right point to elect an enormous number of councillors, our first mayors, to get our first members of the Senedd in Wales, to do very well in our sister party up in Holyrood,” Bennett said.

She also insisted the Green leader is the right man for the job, even though a councillor in Worcestershire defected to the Lib Dems earlier this month over concerns Polanski is “not fit to be our prime minister”.

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Listen to this week’s episode as Bennett shares her thoughts on where the party is right now – and what the Greens must do next to win back voters.

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.

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9 Of The Best Mary Berry Recipes We’ve Tried

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9 Of The Best Mary Berry Recipes We've Tried

After a spate of heatwaves, it’s finally happening: the sides of my road are lined with crunchy autumn leaves, and the weather, finally, is turning a little cooler.

Just as the Great British Bake-Off is set to hit our screens again, plums, apples, and blackberries come into season. The nights are getting longer; turning your oven on feels more bearable as the sweltering heat dissipates.

That means one thing, home cooks: it’s almost time for Prime Baking Season.

If you’re looking for some inspo to get back into the kitchen, we’ve tried and tested plenty of recipes from culinary guru Mary Berry (why waste time with anyone but the best?).

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Here are nine of our favourites:

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Canceled Hollywood icon on verge of huge comeback after audiences ADORED test screening for his latest movie

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Johnny Depp could be set for a triumphant return to Hollywood after his turn as iconic miser Ebenezer Scrooge scored well during an August 11 screening

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Johnny Depp could be set for a triumphant return to Hollywood after his turn as iconic miser Ebenezer Scrooge scored well during an early test screening, according to a new report.

Puck’s Matthew Belloni made the revelation on Friday. He cited an August 11 test screening of ‘Ebenezer’ attended by Paramount studio heads Josh Greenstein and Dana Goldberg in Paramus, New Jersey.

Sources also told Belloni, widely seen as Hollywood’s go-to source for insider information, that the ‘A Christmas Carol’ spinoff scored well overall.

But the ‘real interest’ revolved around Depp, 63, whose last major studio film role came as the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald in the Harry Potter-inspired ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.’

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The film was released in 2018. Legal battles with his ex-wife, Amber Heard, lost Depp the role in 2020. 

Pirates of the Caribbean showrunners distanced themselves from the star, at the time. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed the actor was in talks to reprise that role at an event late last month.

All eyes were thus on Depp last week. ‘And much to the relief of the Paramount execs – and, to a certain extent, the rest of Hollywood – they loved him,’ Belloni wrote.

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Johnny Depp could be set for a triumphant return to Hollywood after his turn as iconic miser Ebenezer Scrooge scored well during an August 11 screening

Depp scored an 86 out of 100 as the Dickensian character, according to Belloni, when the accepted average for a male lead is around 67.

Depp also scored extremely well with women over 35 – a demo some suspected may have been less kind considering Heard, 40, alleged the actor physically and sexually abused her over the course of their relationship, Belloni noted.

Depp scored at least 90 percent in the demo, sources told the Puck founder, adding that he confirmed the numbers ‘with three sources.’ 

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‘In fact, talking to producers and studio execs over the past few weeks, the possibility of a Depp comeback is shaping up as a major narrative for the fall,’ he wrote.

A jury found that Heard defamed Depp on three counts with her claims, which were launched in a 2018 Washington Post opinion piece. The Edward Scissorhands star was subsequently awarded $10.35 million in damages. 

Ebenezer – headed by relatively small-time horror director Ti West – hits theaters in November. 

The movie boasts a roughly $40 million budget.  

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Depp, in-character and in-costume, appeared at Comic-Con in San Diego last month to plug the film.

Depp - seen in character last January - last appeared in a major studio film in 2018, as the main antagonist in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.' The film was released in 2018. Legal battles with his ex-wife, Amber Heard, lost Depp the role in the now-trilogy in 2020

Depp – seen in character last January – last appeared in a major studio film in 2018, as the main antagonist in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.’ The film was released in 2018. Legal battles with his ex-wife, Amber Heard, lost Depp the role in the now-trilogy in 2020

Belloni noted that the strategy, to some, came off as desperate, considering Depp’s situation.

‘Instead, it played exactly as Paramount hoped: This guy is about the characters, not the wine glasses he may or may not have thrown at his ex.’

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Belloni ended the update reiterating how ‘other studios are monitoring this situation closely.’

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Hundreds gather in vigil for family injured in horror wrong-way M9 crash

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Belfast Live

Ella Hendricken and Niamh and Alma Kinsella were travelling with the child to the airport for a holiday when the car they were in was struck by another vehicle driving the wrong way

A community was left “numb” after three sisters and a young boy were seriously injured in a horror crash in Ireland, a vigil of support for the family has heard.

Ella Hendricken and Niamh and Alma Kinsella were travelling with the child to the airport for a holiday when the car they were in was struck by another vehicle driving the wrong way down the M9 motorway in Kildare on Sunday morning.

They were all taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

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Five teenagers in the other vehicle all died in the crash which has renewed focus on enforcement of laws against dangerous driving, the regulation of social media content, and the provision of State care to children.

A prayer vigil in solidarity with the injured women and boy was held on Friday evening in Saint Clare’s Church in Graiguecullen, Carlow near the Laois border.

Hundreds of well-wishers gathered for the vigil, which was also livestreamed, from 6.30pm.

A fundraiser for the affected family had received more than €675,000 in donations by the time of the gathering.

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Father John Dunphy told the vigil: “We gather tonight, first of all, in prayer.

“And when a community comes together in prayer it gives great strength.”

Fr Dunphy said the hearts of the community had been “numb” since Sunday morning, but said “our hearts too went out to” the affected family.

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“We prayed that they will recover. We knew it would be a long road back. Thankfully, they’re on that road and please God, they will make a full recovery.”

At the same service, Bishop Denis Nulty said that the community felt “shock” as well as “maybe fear and grief” as it gathered in “solidarity” and support for the the family.

He said they deserved the prayers offered, “particularly at a time when words fail and indeed when we feel helpless regarding what to do or where to turn to”, adding: “It’s good to be together”.

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Speaking to those gathered, he said: “The thing about it is that they could be any one of us on the road from Carlow to catch an early morning flight from Dublin Airport.”

He said it was “only right that we gather and know how much this gathering will mean” to the affected family.

Bishop Nulty also thanked emergency personnel who arrived at the scene and medical staff who have cared for the family in the following days.

He then turned his attention to those who died in the other crash, while urging the public to be “careful” in social media posts about the incident.

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“We also remember the the five boys in the car – that’s the Christian thing to do.

“They too have heartbroken parents, family, and friends.

“We pray for them this evening.”

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Bishop Nulty said Christians were called on to be “hands and feet of Christ” but were additionally asked “to be careful of our language”.

He added: “Words can hurt, but they also have the power to heal.

“To be careful of our social media posting, what is posted cannot be unposted, to be careful of our commentary.”

The service included a prayer for healing which involved sharing the flame from one source candle in the church among smaller candles held by those gathered.

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Funerals for two of the teenagers in the other car were held in Carlow and Athy, Co Kildare earlier on Friday while it was reported that there was also a gathering for mourners for a third boy in Limerick.

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Unspoilt seaside town named ‘one of the UK’s best’ with wacky pier and award-winning beach

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Cambridgeshire Live

Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside… especially when there’s a charming town nestled along the coast in easy reach of Cambridge, which is named ‘one of the best in the UK’

One of the UK’s ‘best seaside towns’ is less than two hours from Cambridge, with a wacky pier and Blue Flag beach.

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During the summer months, there’s nothing quite like a trip to a seaside town for that quintessential day out, with stretches of golden coast and a high street packed with hidden gems. Even on those slightly more brisk days, there’s plenty of traditional seaside fun to be had, with classic piers, attractions and of course, the sought-after taste of fish and chips by the sea.

While we have to drive a little further to reap the benefits of coastal pastimes, it’s well worth it, and luckily for us, the Suffolk coast is well within reach of Cambridge. And there’s one town that has been highlighted as one of the finest to visit, and it’s remained delightfully unspoilt.

Nestled along the East Suffolk and two hours from Cambridge, is the classic seaside town of Southwold. Characterised by its colourful beach huts, award-winning Edwardian pier, working lighthouse and collection of independent businesses, Southwold was named as ‘one of the best seaside towns’ in the UK by Which? this year.

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The consumer champion awarded the seaside town five stars for its pier, and four stars for its food and drink offerings, tourist attractions, scenery, shopping, and beach. With an overall score of 78%, Southwold ranked among the top 10 nationwide, just behind Aldeburgh in Suffolk.

Southwold Pier Beach has frequently been cited as one of the best in Britain, scooping the Blue Flag and Seaside Awards numerous occassions, including in 2026, owing to its clean, safe environment. The sweeping beach is a mixture of sand and shingle, while its promenade is lined with its colourful array of beach huts that only adds to its coastal charm.

Stretching 190 metres from the Suffolk shore into the North Sea is the iconic Edwardian pier that is packed with entertainment, shops and eateries. It’s perhaps one of the most eccentric British piers, thanks to its wacky Under the Pier Show, which houses a ‘mad collection of homemade slot machines’.

The interactive novelty machines, designed by inventor Tim Hunkin, are certainly a standout in Southwold, providing endless seaside fun. But that’s not all. The pier also has an arcade with all the timeless classics, the Boardwalk Restaurant serving up meals with a view, and the Clockhouse tearoom for a scone and cuppa.

When visitors can tear themselves away from the pier, there’s plenty more to explore in the seaside town, including the award-winning Adnams Brewery. Located next to the 31-metre lighthouse that stands strikingly in the middle of Southwold, the brewery was founded in 1872, but its brewing heritage dates back more than 670 years, so it’s undoubtedly the spot to grab a drink.

Elsewhere in the resort town, there’s a range of independent shops, cafes, hotels and pubs to explore, along with local fish shacks and seafood restaurants. The Little Fish & Chip Shop on East Street has often been hailed as a favourite by locals, thanks to its traditional beef-dripping frying, while Sole Bay Fish Company and Mrs T’s Fish & Chips are other highlights.

Southwold is also home to the independent cinema, The Electric Picture Palace, which was built from an old stable and uniquely designed as an Edwardian theatre. Holidaymakers can attend one of their many film screenings, with just 70-seats for an intimate experience.

What might strike visitors to Southwold, and are a major part of its landscape, are the spacious village greens that lie in the heart of the town. The nine pristine lawns and large common were actually created by a roaring fire back in 1659, and instead of rebuilding every area, the town chose to retain them as open green spaces.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

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Manchester United lineup vs Hull predicted with two debuts and Marcus Rashford decision made

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Manchester Evening News

Man United travel to Hull City this afternoon for their first game of the 2026/27 Premier League season.

Manchester United return to competitive action this afternoon when they visit Hull City in the Premier League. Michael Carrick’s side are preparing to embark on an exciting season with Champions League football back on the agenda.

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On paper, United have been handed a favourable opening day fixture against the 2025/26 Championship play-off winners. But Carrick was eager to stress the challenge Hull will pose in his press conference on Thursday.

Understandably, United will go for a strong line-up to face the Tigers. Senne Lammens will start in goal. Diogo Dalot was the starter at right-back last season for United, and with Carrick aiming for continuity, he could keep his spot. Ayden Heaven was preferred to Leny Yoro during pre-season, which was a shock to many. It would be surprising if the former Arsenal youngster did not start at the MKM Stadium alongside Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw.

In midfield, Carrick would have liked to have picked Mason Mount. The former Chelsea man struck up a good partnership in pre-season with Andrey Santos, who will be handed a debut on Humberside. However, his knock against Paris Saint-Germain makes him a doubt for this game. In his absence, Youri Tielemans will likely be the second debutant.

Marcus Rashford has dominated headlines this summer. As United insisted he would, Rashford has been welcomed back to the first-team squad after an exit failed to materialise and he featured against Ruben Amorim’s AC Milan last weekend. As with Kobbie Mainoo, it would be a risk starting him after a late return to pre-season, but he should make the bench.

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That leaves the battle on the left wing down to two players. Matheus Cunha made the position his own last season while Patrick Dorgu was injured. This summer, Carrick has aimed to reintroduce Dorgu to the left wing role and, after a goal against Milan, he will likely get the nod.

United have been buoyed by the return of Benjamin Sesko to full training. However, starting him would be a risk after he missed the entirety of pre-season. Instead, Bryan Mbeumo will be preferred to Joshua Zirkzee at centre-forward.

United predicted line-up vs Hull: Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Heaven, Shaw; Santos, Tielemans; Amad, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo

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