Haxby Bakehouse and Delicatessen, in Haxby and Clifton Moor, has been recognised for the second year in a row by the independent guide, which named it in the 50 Best Bakeries in Britain this month.

The guide is a go-to for trusted recommendations and celebrates independent bakeries that rival the country’s best restaurants.

It seeks to rank the nation’s best venues using public feedback and anonymous expert inspectors stationed across the UK.

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The bakery described the recognition as a “huge honour”.

Owner Phil Clayton said: “There are so many great bakeries in the Good Food Guide’s 50 that inspire me.

“It’s a huge honour to be listed with them and also great to see so many listed from the north and Scotland – places that sometimes get overlooked.”

The business, owned by Phil and his wife Tina, has been serving customers since 2008.

Phil is behind the baking, which the bakery’s website insists is done the traditional way, using slow fermentation and no artificial flour improvers, preservatives or emulsifiers to make its award-winning artisan bread, sourdoughs and pastries.

In 2025, the Good Food Guide said of him: “Phil Clayton, a largely self-taught baker, credits his flavoursome loaves with the flour grown and milled in small batches by Yorkshire Organic Millers – you can taste the splendid results by purchasing his crusty sourdough classics and slow-fermented yeast breads.

“The Haxby shop, where it all began, has a counter stacked with pastries, tarts, cooked meats and store-cupboard ingredients as well as the venerated ‘pain au levain’.”

Originally aiming to sell the bread at a local farmers’ market, Phil and Tina struck gold after finding a site in Ryedale Court, Haxby – a former health food shop equipped with working ovens.

In the 18 years that followed, the bakery has gone from strength to strength, expanding in 2020 to its unit in Clifton Moor – which allows Phil more space for baking to meet rising demand.

The time, effort and expertise used to make each individual loaf has also been noticed by the likes of Michelin-star chef Tommy Banks, The Guardian and The Press, which named the company a finalist in the 2025 Best Bakery in York awards.

Phil said: “We’re very lucky to have such great teams at the bakery unit in Clifton Moor and at the deli in Haxby.”

“It’s always nice when it’s not something we had to enter – just that what we do has been appreciated.”

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Today, Iran has rejected the US peace plan as “excessive”.

The US plan, which has not been made public, reportedly includes Iran dismantling its nuclear facilities in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. In response Iran has released its own conditions for ending the war through state television. Adam is joined by Chief North America Correspondent Gary O’Donoghue.

And the Former Google executive Matt Brittin has been confirmed as the BBC’s new director general. The ex-president of Google’s Europe, Middle East and Africa operations will replace Tim Davie, who said he was resigning in November following a storm over how Panorama edited a speech by US President Donald Trump. Adam is joined by Katie Razzall, BBC Culture Editor.

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Nigel Farage is set to officially launch Reform UK’s local election campaign, promising “a breath of fresh air in English councils up and down the UK”.

The party leader will formally kick off the campaign for the May 7 polls at an event in Sunderland on Thursday following a series of rallies across the country in recent weeks.

He is expected to highlight achievements in local authorities already under Reform’s control, asserting that voters are “already seeing a difference on the ground”.

Ahead of the rally, Mr Farage said Reform was “delivering a total culture shift in local government, sweeping away the establishment consensus and finally putting residents first”.

He added: “Where the old parties have failed and left behind a trail of ruined councils in their wake, Reform will deliver a breath of fresh air in English councils up and down the UK.”

Central to his pitch will be Reform’s claim to have identified £700 million in savings across its 12 councils, which Mr Farage claimed had been delivered “without touching frontline services”.

In November last year, Reform said its councils had saved £331 million.

Reform continues to lead in the polls and is expected to do well in May, adding to the 677 councillors it won in last year’s local elections.

But its claims to have achieved significant savings have been disputed by opposition councillors, while Labour has pointed to care homes and adult education services closing in Reform-run Derbyshire.

Labour has also criticised Reform for increasing council tax despite promising to cut the levy before last year’s local elections.

Reform now says council tax rises in authorities where it has majority control have averaged less than those run by Labour, the Conservatives or the Lib Dems, while describing below-inflation increases in some councils as a “real-terms tax cut”.

But this does not include Worcestershire, where Reform runs a minority administration and increased council tax this year by 9 per cent.

Labour Party chairwoman Anna Turley said: “Reform’s promises fall apart the moment they take power.

“They said they would cut taxes and waste, but in council after council they’re hiking council tax and slashing services.”

The Royal Navy will start seizing Russia’s shadow fleet vessels when they slip through UK waters, the prime minister has announced.

Sir Keir Starmer said the UK would join northern European allies in intercepting the tankers as part of a drive to ‘go after’ the sanction-breaking ships fuelling Vladimir Putin’s war on Ukraine.

He said: ‘Putin is rubbing his hands at the war in the Middle East because he thinks higher oil prices will let him line his pockets.

‘That’s why we’re going after his shadow fleet even harder, not just keeping Britain safe but starving Putin’s war machine of the dirty profits that fund his barbaric campaign in Ukraine.

‘He and his cronies should be in no doubt, we will always defend our sovereignty and stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.’

Moscow’s shadow fleet is reported to be made up of more than a thousand ageing tankers.

They illicitly ship oil and other goods out of Russia by flying the flags of other countries, with the aim of evading sanctions imposed by the West since the conflict began.

The Prime Minister has given approval for the UK to start seizing shadow fleet vessels as he travels to Helsinki, Finland, for a summit with national leaders from the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF).

The JEF, a military coalition of 10 northern European countries led by the UK, aims to defend against Russian incursions.

It also includes Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.

British forces have already been involved in tracking shadow fleet vessels for several years and have supported operations by other countries to seize the ships.

In January, the UK assisted in the seizure of the oil tanker Marinera by the US.

Previously known as the Bella-1, the Russian-flagged vessel was captured by American forces aided by RAF aircraft and the British supply ship RFA Tideforce in the Atlantic.

Later that same month, Royal Navy patrol boat HMS Dagger helped the French seize another sanctioned ship, the Grinch, in the western Mediterranean, shadowing the vessel through the Strait of Gibraltar.

Last week, the French intercepted the Deyna oil tanker in the Mediterranean, supported by the UK.

Libyan authorities have meanwhile towed a suspected shadow fleet oil tanker found drifting in the Mediterranean which was believed to have been hit in a drone strike.

The tanker, carrying liquefied natural gas, was towed to avoid a spill in the Mediterranean.

At the JEF summit, the Prime Minister and other leaders are expected to discuss shared security in the so-called High North and the war in Ukraine.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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I used to think roasting radishes was just a fad, to add a bit of colour to a meal. But these are lovely, their heat subdued, flavoured with vinegar, lemon and honey.

They’re delicious served with baked salmon – ideally something that’s not too assertive, so other fish dishes work well (very good with bream or red mullet) – or as part of a range of spring vegetables dishes (with asparagus, goat’s cheese and spinach tart, say).

Willow Burn Hospice, based in Lanchester, County Durham, developed the book with support from North-East housebuilder Amethyst Homes, which helped fund the project through a charity golf day.

The book features the story of Will O’Burn, the hospice’s rabbit mascot, and is designed to gently introduce children to conversations about loss and remembrance in a way that feels safe and approachable.

Rachel Quince, deputy chief executive and head of fundraising and marketing at Willow Burn Hospice, said: “We are thrilled that with help from some very special supporters, including Amethyst Homes, that we can bring this story and fantastic resource to fruition.

“Storytelling and characters like Will O’Burn can help young people navigate loss by opening the door to meaningful conversations without pressure, fear or overwhelm.”

The book, titled Will O’Burn and the Friends Who Remember, is a collaboration between author Victoria Downes and illustrator Helen Turner, and is set for publication in June 2026.

It was funded through contributions from Amethyst Homes, Conside Masonic Lodge, Durham Freemasons, Rotary Club of Consett, Wolsingham School and Willow Burn Hospice.

Funding was raised through Amethyst Homes and the Dysart Group’s annual charity golf day, which forms part of a series of activities that have raised more than £5,000 for the hospice to date.

Other fundraising activities have included the 180-mile Coast to Castle cycling challenge from Tynemouth to Edinburgh and a mortgage matching scheme with the Mortgage Advice Bureau, which also directed donations to the hospice.

Richard Bass, managing director at Amethyst Homes, said the project reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the community.

Mr Bass said: “As a local business, we are keen to support vital charities in our area.

“Willow Burn is central to the community, and we are pleased our fundraising is helping young people navigate the complex emotions of grief.”

Established in 2013, Amethyst Homes has built more than 600 properties across the North-East and is currently developing sites in Consett, East Sleekburn, Guide Post and Newcastle.

The company supports a range of charities and community initiatives across the region.

Wales boss Craig Bellamy laughed off the surreal subplot earlier on Wednesday, adding he had not spoken to Cooper since the former Swansea City, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City head coach was appointed by Brondby in September 2025.

Brondby’s communications director Soren Hanghoj rejected Barbarez’s claim and said the player’s omission was a “club decision”, adding: “And there are not that many Wales fans in Brondby after all.”

There will, though, be a sizeable contingent of Bosnian fans who make the trip to the Cardiff City Stadium with their side needing to beat Wales to remain on track to reach their first World Cup since 2014.

The winners in south Wales on Thursday are guaranteed a home final against the winners of Italy or Northern Ireland on Tuesday, 31 March.

Ranked 71st in the world, the Bosnians were edged out of automatic qualification by Austria when they conceded late in a final group game decider in Vienna.

“We cannot compare these two games, against Wales and Austria,” said Barbarez.

“We took some conclusion from the Austria game and we have spoken about it for three days about the experience we have taken from it.

“We have a plan and every eventuality is covered, including penalties and extra time. We are optimistic. These are the games you play football for.”

Forty-year-old former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko is among the group of players who have travelled to Cardiff, though he is not guaranteed to start.

His Schalke team-mate Nikola Katic, formerly of Rangers and Plymouth Argyle, said: “The atmosphere in these kind of matches here is always brilliant and we will give our best.

“This is a serious team we are playing against, but we will play our own game and we are prepared for every eventuality.

“We have not had much success as a nation in the play-offs before, but that is not important for us; it is new for a lot of our players and our team is much stronger than previous sides.”

Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova has announced she is leaving the BBC show after nine years – just days after Karen Hauer said she was leaving the series

Another professional dancer has confirmed their departure from Strictly Come Dancing – just weeks after speculation of significant changes to this year’s line-up. Nadiya Bychkova revealed her exit in an Instagram statement today, Wednesday, March 25. This follows Karen Hauer’s announcement that she is leaving the show after 14 years.

In her message, Nadiya, who joined in 2017, said her Strictly journey is “evolving”. Alongside a photograph of herself on the Strictly dance floor, she wrote: “After 9 wonderful years, this part of my journey with Strictly Come Dancing is evolving.”

The announcement follows reports of substantial upheaval among the Strictly professional dancers ahead of the upcoming series.

Karen and Nadiya are amongst several stars rumoured to have been dropped by BBC bosses.

Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, and Michelle Tsiakkas have all reportedly been let go as part of efforts by executives to bring “fresh faces” into the professional roster. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter

Nadiya, who has previously partnered with Davood Ghadami, Lee Ryan, David James, Dan Walker, Matt Goss, Tom Dean, and most recently, Chris Robshaw in 2025, said: “There is something truly special about being part of a programme that plays such a big part in so many people’s lives and I want to thank all those who have sent beautiful messages over the last few weeks and those who have voted, shouted, supported, celebrated and cheered during every series.

“I also want to take a moment to appreciate all those who have helped me along the way: my partners, my fellow professionals, the judges and brilliant people behind the scenes,” Nadiya penned. “I joined the show as an athlete and a double world champion. Along the way I have learned so much about myself and other people. I have grown, not only professionally, but personally and creatively.”

Reflecting on her journey on the BBC programme, the dancer added: “Strictly has allowed me to discover new sides of myself, develop new skills, and evolve as an artist in ways I will always be grateful for.

“This isn’t the end… I look forward to being part of the Strictly world for many years to come in ways I am beginning to explore,” Nadiya affirmed. “I’ve changed a lot since I first stepped onto that dance floor, not just as a performer, but as a person and I can honestly say I’ve never felt more like myself.”

Looking to the future, Nadiya said: “I’m excited to have time to focus on new projects, and to spend more precious time with my beautiful daughter. Life feels full of possibilities.” She added: “I danced before Strictly, I loved dancing on the show and I plan to keep dancing for many years to come. Thank you for all the love and support along the way,” concluding her message with a white heart emoji.

The BBC also issued a statement following Nadiya’s announcement. It stated: “We would like to say a huge thank you to Nadiya Bychkova for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing. Since joining the show nine years ago, Nadiya has brought elegance, artistry, and unwavering dedication to the ballroom, and she will always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family.

“Over the years, Nadiya has delivered countless memorable performances, showcasing not only her exceptional talents as a dancer and choreographer but also her brilliance as a teacher to all her celebrity partners.

“A consummate professional, Nadiya embodies the very best of what Strictly stands for. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to the show and wish her every success for the future.”

The gang were paraded for the cameras out the front door of the Criminal Courts of Justice by officers that night, seen smirking and laughing, as they were in the courtroom, despite the prospect of being jailed for life

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A trio of Dublin gangsters shocked a courtroom with foul-mouthed outbursts as they were finally jailed for their crimes.

The Hennessey mob’s downfall began with a chaotic court appearance where members hurled abuse at a judge and Gardaí. Dean Fitzsimons, now beginning an eight-and-a-half-year sentence, called Judge Paula Murphy a “slut” as she decided whether to grant him, his father Kenneth and his pals Jason, Devon and Brandon Hennessy bail during a late-night special court appearance last February.

Meanwhile, Jason ‘Jay’ Hennessy Jr interrupted a prosecuting officer who was giving evidence about his ownership of trucks during the bail hearing, throughout which the five thugs laughed and joked.

“They were my father’s trucks so watch what you’re f*cking saying,” Hennessy Jr shouted during proceedings before accusing the officer of “talking b*llocks”.

The gang were paraded for the cameras out the front door of the Criminal Courts of Justice by officers that night, seen smirking and laughing, as they were in the courtroom, despite the prospect of being jailed for life.

On February 12, last year, Barry Moore, an associate of the gang, had been lured to the Hennessys’ headquarters at Sheephill Avenue in Dublin, as the gang believed he was an informant. Moore was tortured over several hours, with the word “rat” branded on his belly with a cattle iron.

They also threatened to rape the former associate, who was left seriously injured from the horrific ordeal. Moore refused to give evidence, and four of the men were ultimately able to plead to a lesser charge of assault causing harm instead of false imprisonment and assault causing serious harm.

Four of the five defendants faced life in prison had the trial gone on. Devon Hennessy, meanwhile, pleaded guilty at an earlier juncture, ultimately securing himself the lesser sentence of just three years.

Still, the arrests of the men for the gruesome attack brought about an abrupt end for the mob, which had ruled the Corduff drugs scene with fear and force for several years.

On Wednesday (March 25), Gang leader Jason Hennessy Jr, 29, received eight and a half years in prison for his role in the brutal attack on Moore. The mobster had become infamous after making an appearance on the Virgin Media documentary ‘Inside the K’, which documented the activities of the brave gardaí policing the area.

In it, Hennessy Jr was seen trying to square up to police, hurling abuse at them. The court heard how his drug gang was embroiled in several feuds, including at one point against Glen Ward, the infamous Finglas-based mobster known as ‘Mr Flashy.’

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The rival gangs had been at odds for some time, with police monitoring threats made by both sides in an increasingly tense feud. In 2023, one such feud the Hennessys were caught up in came to a boiling point when gunman Tristan Sherry barged his way into Browne’s Steakhouse in Blanchardstown and opened fire on Christmas Eve.

Sherry managed to fire several shots at Jason Hennessy Sr, who was enjoying a Christmas meal with family. The head of the Hennessy family was gravely injured and died days later in hospital.

The gunman was set upon by several of the Hennessy gang as they violently kicked, stamped, stabbed and shot him to death. Associates Michael Andrecut, 23, Noah Musueni, 18, and David Amah, 19, were all convicted of Sherry’s murder.

Three others, including Hennessy’s young son Brandon, 22, who has now received a consecutive six year sentence for the attack in Moore, were convicted of violent disorder in relation to the terrifying incident.

Another associate, 19-year-old Juares Kumbu, was jailed for two years for removing the gun from the scene. In the aftermath of the shooting and double murders at Browne’s Steakhouse, officers were conducting round-the-clock patrols in Corduff, to snuff out further retaliation.

Jason Hennessy Jr has been in and out of court over a series of incidents, including in 2018 when he avoided prison with a suspended sentence for violent disorder after the court heard how he reportedly launched an attack in Dublin’s D’Olier Street on May 23, 2015.

One of the victims had been knocked to the ground by a large group of teenagers while walking down the road with his friend. The court was told Hennessy Jr had returned to his car, retrieved a hammer and attacked the man further, causing an injury to the tendons on his fingers and a 4cm head wound requiring stitches.

He and his gang were known for making light of their crimes, often posting pictures and videos to social media in which they brazenly bragged about their criminality.

“Having now considered our position in light of that decision, taking into account all the circumstances, we have determined that while Palestine Action remains proscribed and support for it remains unlawful under the Terrorism Act, we must continue to enforce the law and this is likely to involve the arrest of those committing offences.”