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Today’s rugby news as Springboks explain dramatic late change amid suspicion

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Wales Online

Here are your rugby headlines for Saturday, August 29.

Springboks explain late changes

The Springboks have moved to explain the reasons behind their significant late team changes ahead of today’s second Test against the All Blacks.

Head coach Rassie Erasmus had initially announced a key change at outside-half when naming his team three days earlier than required on Monday, with the experienced Handre Pollard starting ahead of Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. There was also no Cheslin Kolbe in the side due to injury.

By Friday, after the All Blacks had named their side, Pollard was out, Feinberg-Mngomezulu was starting and Kolbe was fit and back in the starting XV.

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The dramatic late changes led to more accusations of Erasmus mind games ahead of a big match, with suspicions raised that the Springboks always intended to field a different side to the one initially named.

Now, assistant coach Mzwandile Stick has explained the chain of events that led to the changes.

“It happened on Wednesday and he went for testing, so I can’t say exactly how long he’ll (Pollard) be out,” said Stick.

“I feel for him and hopefully he recovers quickly, but what I admire is that a leader like Handre was honest about how he was feeling and had the courage to say he didn’t feel right during the training session. He’s been in such good shape, and he’s been working very hard, even when he wasn’t in the matchday squad, but he has always been positive and tried to help the guys.”

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On Kolbe’s inclusion in the starting team, which resulted in Kurt-Lee Arendse dropping out of the squad, Stick said: “Both of those players didn’t finish last week’s game, and as a coaching team we do our team selection on a Sunday, but at that stage we didn’t have a final medical report on Cheslin.

“Our team policy, however, is that if a player can train fully on a Monday, there’s no reason not to select him, and Cheslin did that and went well through the week, which is why we made the change.”

Captain Siya Kolisi has also been declared fit and says he is happy with the way he recovered from the strain he picked up in the Test against Argentina in Buenos Aires earlier this summer.

“I feel good and strong – the toughest part was more the mental battle,” said Kolisi.

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“You know you’re always going to heal, so it’s more the mental side that is challenging because you don’t know in which game you’re going to be back.

“Fortunately, I had good support from the coaching staff, my teammates, and our medical team, so I’m really happy to be back and able to play this game.”

Ex-Ospreys boss lands new role with World Cup team

Former Ospreys head coach Toby Booth has landed a new role with Hong Kong China ahead of their historic Rugby World Cup debut.

Booth has returned to the coaching set-up as defence and lineout coach, just over a year before Hong Kong China head to Australia for the 2027 World Cup.

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The former Ospreys boss previously worked with the Asian side as a consultant before joining Harlequins’ coaching staff.

His short-term spell with the London club ended in June and he has now returned to Hong Kong China as they prepare for the biggest tournament in the country’s rugby history.

The move is part of a wider coaching reshuffle, with Andrew Douglas returning as head coach.

Douglas successfully guided Hong Kong China through Rugby World Cup qualifying before stepping down to concentrate on his role as Head of Technical Rugby with the Hong Kong China Rugby Union.

Logan Asplin was promoted from assistant coach to replace him and led the side to a 42-40 Nations Cup victory over Uruguay in July.

He will remain part of the set-up as attack coach following Douglas’ return.

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Booth’s previous experience with Hong Kong China made him a natural choice to return to the coaching team, with the union keen to build on the work already done ahead of their World Cup campaign.

Hong Kong China executive director of performance rugby Simon Amor said: “We welcome the return of Toby to the set-up and as we prepare for our one-year push to one of the biggest moments in the history of rugby in Asia.

“His previous time with the squad has continued to resonate with the playing and coaching staff, and we are delighted to have him back.”

Strength and conditioning coach Allan Ryan has also joined the programme on a consultancy basis from Toulouse.

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The coaching changes come with Hong Kong China preparing for their first appearance at a Rugby World Cup, which will be staged in Australia in 2027.

Ospreys announce new leadership structure

Ospreys have announced a new leadership structure with Dan Griffiths appointed Head of Rugby and Richard Lancaster becoming Managing Director.

The appointments take effect immediately and come as the club prepares for its move to a new permanent home at St Helen’s.

Griffiths has spent 16 years with the Ospreys and has worked across the club’s rugby programmes and operations. In his previous role as Rugby General Manager, he oversaw the academy and senior environment while leading on senior player recruitment and retention.

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He will now take charge of the Ospreys’ rugby operations, working alongside coaches and departmental leads across the development and senior programmes.

Lancaster steps up from his position as Commercial Director to lead the business side of the organisation.

He has played a key role in the club’s commercial strategy and its relationship with Swansea Council during the development of the St Helen’s plans.

His responsibilities will now include the opportunities and challenges associated with operating the Ospreys’ own venue, while he will also represent the club on the Professional Rugby Board and in its relationships with the Welsh Rugby Union, United Rugby Championship and European Professional Club Rugby.

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Ospreys chairman Roger Blyth said Griffiths and Lancaster were the “right people to promote from within”, adding that the pair’s responsibilities would be “different but complementary”.

“Richard will lead the business side of the organisation and Dan our rugby operations, but the success of each is intrinsically linked to the other,” Blyth said.

“I am confident that together they will provide the direction and energy required for the next chapter of Ospreys Rugby.”

Griffiths said he was “incredibly proud” to take on his new role after 16 years with the club.

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“It’s an exciting new chapter for the Ospreys with the development of St Helens and one which staff and players are looking forward to being a part of,” he said.

“There is a lot of work ahead of us, but we feel we have a good balance to the squad with some young talent and quality recruitment complementing a core of players well established at the club.”

Lancaster added: “It’s a privilege to take on this responsibility at such an important point in the Ospreys’ history.

“Having a home of our own creates opportunities commercially and operationally, but just as importantly it gives us the chance to bring the Ospreys closer to our supporters and our community.”

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The pair will be supported by locally based Ospreys board members Blyth, Alun Wyn Jones and Rob Davies, who will provide strategic oversight and guidance to the executive leadership team.

Young Welsh international agrees new Scarlets deal

Young Welsh international Harry Thomas has agreed a new deal with the Scarlets.

The 20-year-old hooker has committed his future to the region after progressing through the Scarlets Academy and establishing himself as one of Wales’ promising young front-row forwards.

Thomas starred for Wales U20 during last year’s Six Nations and has also gained senior experience with Llandovery in Super Rygbi Cymru.

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The Llanelli-born hooker made his Scarlets debut in the United Rugby Championship two years ago and has continued to feature regularly for the region.

Thomas’ latest contract represents another step in the development of a player who has come through the local pathway, having started his rugby journey with New Dock Stars RFC before progressing through Llanelli Schools and into the Scarlets system.

His father Meirion also captained New Dock Stars, where Thomas first began playing rugby as a youngster.

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Thomas has previously spoken of his pride at representing the club that played such an important role in his development.

The Scarlets have now confirmed that the home-grown hooker has signed a new deal, keeping him at Parc y Scarlets as he looks to build on his early senior career.

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Dungannon murder LIVE updates as man found dead and child seriously injured in Co Tyrone

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Belfast Live

Sinn Fein Councillor Deirdre Varsani speaking to the media at the scene in Co Tyrone

Speaking at the scene, Sinn Féin councillor Deirdre Varsani, who is also chairwoman of Mid Ulster District Council, said: “Our understanding is, as confirmed by police, that a man is dead and another person has been arrested and that there is a child injured and in the Royal Victoria Hospital.

“Obviously, it has been upgraded to what we suspected would be a serious domestic incident.

“Any time there is an incident of this nature it brings a great deal of concern.

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“When reports come out that there may be a child involved or injured in any way that escalates it in terms of people’s reaction.

“We are dealing with what is confirmed as a serious incident and will take some time for us to get more details and deal with the fallout from that and how the community will be feeling and need supported during this time.

“We hope that our homes are the most safe place for us but when domestic incidents of this nature happen, it really does reinforce that everyone needs to get on board with trying to help society move forward, where people speak up and try to get to grips with what can be at time very serious incidents that happen in the home.”

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Violent Haitian gang releases women and children after mass kidnapping

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Violent Haitian gang releases women and children after mass kidnapping

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Six children and seven women were released by a gang in Haiti that had kidnapped more than 50 people after launching a deadly attack on a community near the capital, Port-au-Prince, nearly a week ago, according to UNICEF.

The United Nations children’s agency said late Friday that among those released are three children under the age of 2, a 7-year-old and two teenage girls.

“This release offers a rare moment of hope amid the violence threatening children in Haiti,” said Yannig Dussart, UNICEF’s deputy representative in Haiti. “The Kenscoff abduction was not an isolated incident but another stark reminder of the scale and frequency of attacks on children across the country.”

UNICEF said it worked with community leaders to help secure the release of the women and children. It wasn’t immediately clear if they needed medical treatment, and whether there are more women and children being held.

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While individual kidnappings in Haiti are commonplace, mass abductions are more unusual. The outcomes vary: Some people are released without a ransom, while others are killed despite multiple ransoms being paid.

Gangs killed at least 47 people during the attack late Sunday on Kenscoff, a once-peaceful farming community nestled in the hills above Haiti’s capital.

A gang leader known as Izo 2 had threatened to execute all the hostages if police killed any gang members in their push to secure Kenscoff. Izo 2 leads an armed group in that area on behalf of and in coordination with other gang leaders including Izo, considered one of Haiti’s most powerful gang leaders.

The recent attack sparked an outcry Friday at an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council for swift deployment of the new U.N.-backed gang-fighting force and action to rein in the lawless bands.

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Diplomats at the meeting called by the United States, Panama and Colombia expressed horror at the brutal attack.

Luis Ruiz Massieu, the U.N. special envoy to Haiti, said the attack has generated “a new wave of public indignation across all sectors of Haiti’s society, as well as international partners.”

Ruiz Massieu welcomed the decision by Haiti’s authorities to bring together the national police, armed forces and the gang suppression force to assess developments and coordinate plans. It was agreed that the gang suppression force would strengthen its presence in Port-au-Prince and that Haitian forces would reinforce their deployment in Kenscoff.

But the U.N. envoy and many council speakers stressed the urgent need to strengthen international security support for Haiti.

U.S. Deputy Ambassador Jennifer Locetta said the United States “is resolved and as committed as ever to supporting Haitian-led security efforts to end gang terror.”

She urged U.N. members to provide equipment and resources to enable the gang suppression force to deploy as quickly as possible — and to invest in jobs, infrastructure and other opportunities to provide an alternative path to joining a gang.

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Locetta noted that gang coalitions have publicly said they are seeking to prevent Haitian voters from electing their representatives in a future election and that “terrorists” can’t be allowed to take democracy hostage.

“They cannot terrorize from the ends of rifles and from the comforts of toll stations – as they rob Haiti of their future,” she said, “We must protect civilians against these unconscionable acts.”

Indrika Ratwatte, the acting assistant secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, told the Security Council that the Kenscoff attack forced more than 2,600 people to flee their homes, many for the second or third time. He said people are traumatized, searching for missing relatives and uncertain about the future.

Nearly 1.5 million people, 12% of Haiti’s population, are internally displaced, half of them children, he said.

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“Meanwhile, deportations to Haiti continue at scale,” Ratwatte said, referring to expulsions from the Dominican Republic and to the Trump administration’s push to remove Haitians living and working legally in the U.S. and others whose visas had expired or who had entered illegally.

“In the first eight months of 2026, almost 200,000 people were forcibly returned, a 10% increase compared with the same period last year,” many arriving with nothing, he said.

Calling violence especially toward women, girls and children “shocking,” he said the U.N.’s humanitarian partners “recorded over 5,500 incidents of gender-based violence, or about 30 cases per day, in the first six months of the year alone.”

___

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Lederer reported from the United Nations.

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Cambridgeshire village pub with ‘great reputation’ looking for new landlord

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The pub has recently undergone a major refurbishment

A village pub is looking for a new landlord. The Three Horseshoes in Yaxley has been serving residents for many years. Having recently undergoing a major refurbishment, the pub is offered in excellent condition.

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Angus Carrington, regional manager at Stonegate Pub Partners which owns the pub said: “The Three Horseshoes is a fantastic pub with a well-established customer base and a great reputation within the local community.

“Following its recent refurbishment, it’s in excellent condition and ready for the next publican to hit the ground running. There is a real opportunity here to build on what’s already successful by developing the food offer, creating exciting events and making the most of the fantastic indoor and outdoor spaces. For the right operator, this is a chance to take a great village pub and unlock its full potential.”

The pub comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a main bar that’s popular for watching sports on TV and a second bar with a cosy restaurant area. There is also a large garden with a patio, lawned area and children’s play area.

The pub also comes with a tarmacked car park and overflow car park. Whoever takes it on will also benefit from private two-bedroom accommodation.

The Three Horseshoes is also ideally located five miles from Peterborough and close to the A1.

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James Cleverly quits shadow cabinet to take on Sadiq Khan in fight to be next London mayor

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James Cleverly is to resign as a shadow cabinet minister to run for London Mayor

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Sir James Cleverly is to resign as a shadow cabinet minister to run for London Mayor, saying the city has been ‘let down by Labour’.

The shadow minister for housing, communities and local government will leave his role with immediate effect.

There had been speculation around the future of the Conservative MP for Braintree’s career, and it is understood he felt the need to clarify his position prior to party conferences this autumn.

It is unknown who will replace Mr Cleverly, 56, in the shadow cabinet, ahead of an expected reshuffle next month. 

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He will be the Tory candidate to challenge Labour’s Sir Sadiq Khan, who is currently halfway through his third term as London Mayor.

Mr Khan has not yet confirmed if he intends to stand for a fourth term at the May 2028 election.

Posting on X following the announcement, Mr Cleverly wrote: ‘London needs more than an administrator. 

‘It needs a champion, someone who understands its potential and is prepared to fight for its future. That’s why I’m running to be the Conservative Candidate for London Mayor.’

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James Cleverly is to resign as a shadow cabinet minister to run for London Mayor

Mr Cleverly will challenge Labour’s Sir Sadiq Khan, who is currently halfway through his third term as London Mayor

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Mr Cleverly told party leader Kemi Badenoch of his decision on Thursday

Mr Cleverly told party leader Kemi Badenoch of his decision on Thursday

Speaking to the Sunday Times, the former foreign secretary said he had informed party leader Kemi Badenoch on Thursday.

‘She took it well,’ he told the paper. ‘Kemi has been very gracious’.

He added in an op-ed that ‘London has been let down by Labour’ and accused Prime Minister of Andy Burnham of viewing it as a ‘cash cow’. He said he intends to make ‘a city to be proud of again’. 

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Ms Badenoch is said to be disappointed to lose a pivotal member of her cabinet but supports Mr Cleverly to be the one to take on Mr Khan. 

But she cannot officially endorse any candidate as they must win the Conservative Party’s nomination for the election.

It is not known if any other candidates intend to put themselves forward for the Tory position. 

In 2024, Susan Hall stood for the party but lost to the incumbent mayor by around 200,000 votes.

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The only candidate confirmed for the 2028 election so far is Reform’s Laila Cunningham, a Westminster City Councillor who defected from the Conservatives in June 2025. 

‘We need a credible big hitter putting themselves forward for mayor of London,’ Mr Cleverly told the newspaper. 

He added Mr Khan has been ‘asleep at the wheel’ while leading the UK’s largest city, accusing him of ‘lots of posturing’ with ‘very little delivery’.

Shadow ministers were quick to lend their support to the Essex MP. Richard Holden, shadow transport secretary said: ‘Excellent news for Londoners and the whole country.

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‘A real heavyweight in the race who’d make a superb Mayor of London for every part of our great capital city.’

Before first being elected as an MP in 2015, Mr Cleverly served on the London Assembly for eight years.

He held posts including leader of the Conservative group in the Assembly, the Mayor’s Youth Ambassador and, under Boris Johnson, Deputy Mayor.

The army reservist has been appointed to various cabinet positions under three prime ministers, including foreign and home secretary.

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Proud parents David and Victoria Beckham cheer on son Cruz and his band The Breakers as they make their Reading debut as the whole family watch from backstage

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Proud parents David and Victoria Beckham cheered on their son Cruz and his band The Breakers as they made their Reading Festival debut on Saturday

Proud parents David and Victoria Beckham cheered on their son Cruz as he marked a major career milestone as he made his Reading Festival debut with his band The Breakers on Saturday. 

The youngest of the Beckham sons, 21, has had an incredible year touring the UK with his band and earlier this month they released their EP Wear & Tear. 

And after a summer touring around Europe on their luxury £16million yacht, his parents made sure to jet back from the Amalfi Coast to rainy Reading in time to watch their son play The Canopy stage at the renowned festival. 

Despite the torrential rain, the former footballer, 51, and Posh Spice, 52, were undeterred as they watched intently from the side of the stage, Victoria still donning her shades. 

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Cruz’s brother Romeo, sister Harper and his girlfriend Jackie Apostel were also watching as they beamed with pride. 

A concertgoer told the Daily Mail: ‘They are all there listening and supporting Cruz and Victoria has been embracing David affectionately while watching.’ 

 Proud parents David and Victoria Beckham cheered on their son Cruz and his band The Breakers as they made their Reading Festival debut on Saturday

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And after a summer touring around Europe on their luxury £16million yacht, his parents made sure to jet back from the Amalfi Coast in time to watch their son play The Canopy stage

 And after a summer touring around Europe on their luxury £16million yacht, his parents made sure to jet back from the Amalfi Coast in time to watch their son play The Canopy stage

The youngest of the Beckham sons, 21, has had an incredible year touring the UK and playing Lollapalooza festival last month, as well as the release of the band's EP Wear & Tear

The youngest of the Beckham sons, 21, has had an incredible year touring the UK and playing Lollapalooza festival last month, as well as the release of the band’s EP Wear & Tear

The whole family were there to support the musician as his brother Romeo, sister Harper and girlfriend Jackie Apostel smiled while watching the performance

The whole family were there to support the musician as his brother Romeo, sister Harper and girlfriend Jackie Apostel smiled while watching the performance 

Jackie also made sure to support the star as she took to her Instagram Story earlier in the day wearing a bright yellow T-shirt which read: ‘Cruz Beckham sang to me.’  

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Cruz became the latest nepo baby to hit the festival stage with Liam Gallagher’s youngest son Gene, 25, performing with his band Villanelle the day prior. 

Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin’s son Moses also played with his band People I’ve Met on the Friday and Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl’s daughter Violet due to take to the stage on Sunday. 

Taking to his Instagram Story before his festival slot, Cruz shared a close up selfie as he penned: ‘Reading, I cannot wait.’ 

After Reading, Cruz and his band will be moving on to Leeds on Sunday, with a total of six shows planned to coincide with the release of the Wear & Tear EP.

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The tracks are titled: Better Times, WANNABE, Seeing Red, Loneliest Boy and Wear & Tear.

Cruz, says the new EP, which he recorded with his band The Breakers, captures ‘a life lived’ – the good, the bad and all the ‘learning curves’ in between.

He added that he hopes the EP gets across the message that, despite people having different life experiences, they can still share emotions.

The singer mused: ‘We’ve been high, and low, in love and in pain, jealous, upset – we’ve lived and learned. We’ve all got our wear and tear.’

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Cruz and his band embarked on their debut headline trek titled The For Your Love Tour in early 2026, playing sold-out shows across the UK and Europe before heading into a North American summer leg.

Cruz's brother Romeo, sister Harper and his girlfriend Jackie Apostel also sat watching as they beamed with pride

Cruz’s brother Romeo, sister Harper and his girlfriend Jackie Apostel also sat watching as they beamed with pride

The singer looked at home on the stage as he donned a denim jacket, jeans and red T-shirt

The singer looked at home on the stage as he donned a denim jacket, jeans and red T-shirt 

A concertgoer told The Daily Mail: 'They are all there listening and supporting Cruz and Victoria has been embracing David affectionately while watching'

A concertgoer told The Daily Mail: ‘They are all there listening and supporting Cruz and Victoria has been embracing David affectionately while watching’

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Romeo was dressed in a full camouflage ensemble as he joined his sister for the gig

Romeo was dressed in a full camouflage ensemble as he joined his sister for the gig 

Harper waited patiently for her brother's set to begin

Harper waited patiently for her brother’s set to begin 

Cruz's girlfriend Jackie also made sure to support the star as she took to her Instagram Story wearing a bright yellow T-shirt which read: 'Cruz Beckham sang to me'

Cruz’s girlfriend Jackie also made sure to support the star as she took to her Instagram Story wearing a bright yellow T-shirt which read: ‘Cruz Beckham sang to me’

After Reading, Cruz and his band will be moving on to Leeds on Sunday, with a total of six shows planned to coincide with the release of the Wear & Tear EP

After Reading, Cruz and his band will be moving on to Leeds on Sunday, with a total of six shows planned to coincide with the release of the Wear & Tear EP

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Taking to his Instagram Story before his festival slot, Cruz shared a close up selfie as he penned: 'Reading, I cannot wait'

Taking to his Instagram Story before his festival slot, Cruz shared a close up selfie as he penned: ‘Reading, I cannot wait’

The tour was a big moment for Cruz, who has been working up to his sold out gigs following the release of his first single, For Your Love. 

Last year Cruz performed in front of his family and friends for the first time, leaving his proud parents reduced to ‘tears of joy’. 

Proud mum Victoria was in the front row to witness her youngest son’s performance and shared a clip of him singing while playing the guitar.

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Alongside the video, she gushed: ‘Wow!!! You look so happy Cruz and we couldn’t be prouder we love you @cruzbeckham xxxxxxxxxx.’

David also shared a clip of Cruz performing, admitting he had ‘tears of joy and pride’ watching his son.

At Reading on Friday night,  Oasis singer Liam‘s youngest son Gene, 25, took to the stage at the Reading music extravaganza with his band Villanelle, 26 years after his famous dad headlined. 

Shortly before Gene took to the stage, Moses Martin, the 20-year-old son of Chris Martin and Gwyneth Paltrow, took to the stage with his indie-pop band People I’ve Met at the Reading music extravaganza for a 35-minute set 27 years after his father sang there with Coldplay.

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Grieving parents ask why Treasury manager ‘ambushed’ worker before she took own life | News UK

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Grieving parents ask why Treasury manager 'ambushed' worker before she took own life | News UK
Treasury worker Chloe Moffat died by suicide last May, aged 26

The bereaved parents of a 26-year-old Treasury worker are asking questions about her manager after she took her own life last year.

Chloe Moffat died by suicide on May 20, 2025, one day after an anonymous complaint was made about her.

Moffat, who worked as a personal assistant in the government department, had an ‘exemplary record’, an inquest heard earlier this month, and was in line for a promotion after receiving a bonus for her work.

However, following a meeting about the complaint, Moffat became ‘distressed’ upon learning she had been accused of sharing sensitive information about her colleagues.

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She had not been informed in advance what the meeting would be about, nor was she reassured that it was ‘unlikely’ she’d lose her job of three years or permitted to have a friend or colleague present for support.

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A coroner then ruled that the Treasury had ‘materially contributed’ to Moffat’s death by failing to follow its own HR protocols.

Dad of Treasury worker who committed suicide says it failed duty of care ' NO CREDIT SOURCE; https://www.facebook.com/chloe.moffat.129/photos
Moffat had been working for the department for three years and ‘loved’ her job

Grieving parents Anne and David have since spoken out, wanting to know why their daughter was ‘ambushed’ by her manager over ‘office gossip’.

They said Moffat assumed the meeting she was called in for on May 19 would be a routine chat with her line manager.

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Instead, she was also met by a senior manager who informed her of the allegations, which involved discussing salaries, a co-worker’s new job, and a relationship between two members of staff.

The civil servant was locked out of her emails shortly after and instructed not to discuss the matter with her colleagues.

Her mother, Anne, told The Times of the accusations: ‘When her line manager heard them, she said they didn’t sound like the Chloe she knew. 

‘So why ambush her with a meeting like this without checking if they were vexatious, unfounded or simply not true?’

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Husband David added: ‘After her death, when we were trying to work out how bad the complaints had been for a meeting like this to be called that led to Chloe taking the drastic action she did, we finally saw the allegations and thought, “Was that it?”‘

Chloe Moffat's father David Moffat speaking to the BBC - video grab from web clip source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0rewr790jyo
Her father, David Moffat, has questions about why ‘drastic action’ was taken over the claims (Picture: BBC)

After the meeting, Moffat called her mum, a former head of care at a children’s hospice, who was in France at the time. During the call, she made it known that she believed she would be losing her job.

The politics graduate also messaged a friend that day, writing, ‘I am going to be fired.’ She later met the friend and ‘broke down crying’.

That night, Moffat travelled to her family home in Godalming, Surrey, where she and her dad discussed plans to visit Oxford at the weekend.

But the next morning, property director David found his daughter dead, the medical cause of which was determined to be suicide.

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Assistant coroner Anna Crawford said Moffat’s state of mind and anxiety over being fired likely contributed to the decision she made to take her life.

Her father echoed this, saying his daughter thought her life had been ‘destroyed’.

It is unlikely that Moffat would have ever been dismissed over the claims.

Now, Anne and David want ‘redress’, but they are unsure whether they will take further action.

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The Treasury previously said it was considering the coroner’s findings ‘carefully’ and not contesting.

It has said new measures have been implemented to better support colleagues’ wellbeing when accused of misconduct.

Additionally, a Prevention of Future Deaths report by the coroner has been sent to the Treasury and Dame Antonia Romeo, head of the civil service.

A Treasury spokesperson has said their ‘deepest sympathies’ continue to be with Moffat’s friends and families as the department ‘continues to mourn our colleague’.

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‘We will learn the lessons from this tragedy. We are working urgently to respond to the coroner’s findings, and we have introduced immediate changes to our guidance, support, and wellbeing arrangements.

‘Chloe’s parents have agreed to meet with us so we can hear their views and update on actions the department is taking.’

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Charlotte was killed in horrific circumstances. Her boyfriend’s reaction will haunt her family forever

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Charlotte Dodd, a beloved mum-of-two, was killed by Matthew DuPlessis after a day out in Blackpool

A man who admitted causing the death of his then girlfriend by careless driving has been jailed, but her family claim they still don’t know the full truth.

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Police said Matthew DuPlessis, 35, ‘concocted’ a story to ‘cover up that he was responsible’ for the death of mum-of-two Charlotte Dodd, also 35.

He claimed she had been dancing in the road after they had a night out and was struck by a dark-coloured vehicle in a hit and run smash. DuPlessis was initially treated as a witness and allowed to leave the scene on Padgbury Lane, Congleton, Cheshire, on September 23, 2023.

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But an officer from a serious collision unit who attended the scene later recognised his name and that he drove a small white van like one found parked nearby.

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Police went on to arrest him on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing a roadside drug screening test. DuPlessis pleaded guilty in 2024 to driving with excess cocaine in his body and was banned for three years, but the investigation into Charlotte’s death continued.

Police said it emerged DuPlessis and Charlotte had been to Blackpool during the day, but neighbours heard them arguing that night. They left at 1.30am and drove around Congleton in DuPlessis’ van as they continued to argue.

In a statement, Cheshire Police said: “It was then, on Padgbury Lane, that Charlotte left the van as it was still moving. Charlotte struck the carriageway and was fatally injured.”

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DuPlessis, from Richard Darrock Way in Crewe, appeared at Chester Crown Court on Friday (August 28) to be sentenced after pleading guilty to causing death by careless driving whilst unfit through drugs and perverting the course of justice at an earlier hearing. He was jailed for nine years and three months.

Det Chief Insp Dave Hutcheon, of the Major Investigation Team, said: “DuPlessis told multiple witnesses at the scene including his own parents, members of the public, paramedics and police at the scene that he and Charlotte were walking along Padgbury Lane having been out drinking and that Charlotte was dancing in the carriageway.

“He said that when his back was turned to wee in a bush, a dark coloured vehicle struck Charlotte and fled the scene. We launched a fail to stop investigation at the scene, and the defendant was treated as a witness and later allowed to leave with his parents.

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“It hasn’t been determined how Charlotte came to leave the van. The defendant overshot the junction causing him to perform an emergency stop. He then reversed and parked his van on Arnside Avenue and went to Charlotte. He then concocted his story to cover up that he was responsible for her death.

“His lies were caught out by the roads policing officer and the detailed forensic analysis of his movements led to him having no option but to plead guilty.

“His actions tragically led to Charlotte’s death and changed her family’s life forever. Our hearts go out to them as they navigate the rest of their lives trying to cope with the devastating loss of someone they loved very much.”

Following the sentencing hearing, Charlotte’s family said: “Today marks the end of a three-year journey through a police investigation and legal process that has changed our family lives forever. Throughout this period, we have quietly lived through the turmoil, the uncertainty and the heartbreak surrounding the circumstances of Charlotte’s death.

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“We have each carried an indescribable pain of losing our daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and friend, whilst also watching her two young girls try to come to terms with losing their mummy. Due to the lies and deception by one person from the very beginning, thereby perverting the course of justice, we still do not know the full truth of what really happened to Charlotte.

“There are no witnesses. There are some questions that remain unanswered, and we will have to live with those questions for the rest of our lives.”

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Katie Price lets her hair down as she performs her hit I Got U in very racy cut-out neon leotard at Manchester Pride

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Katie Price let her hair down as she performed her hit I Got U in a very racy cut-out neon leotard at Manchester Pride on Friday night

She’s never been one to shy away from the spotlight… 

And Katie Price made sure all eyes were on her as she took to the stage for a special performance at Manchester Pride on Friday.

The former glamour model, 48, worked the crowd as she performed in a very racy cut-out neon leotard. 

Emphasising her surgically enhanced figure, she squeezed into the plunging one piece, which she paired with fishnet tights and black ankle boots. 

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Performing her hit I Got U to the cheering crowd, the star also treated fans to a cover of Bryan Adams’ Heaven and the 1991 house classic Finally by CeCe Peniston. 

She told the audience: ‘I’m a real person, I’m not a product. I’m just like all of us here. We all have our ups and downs.’ 

Heading to the venue earlier in the night, Katie was seen puffing on a vape and looked in great spirits as she flashed her wedding ring while walking with her companions. 

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Katie Price let her hair down as she performed her hit I Got U in a very racy cut-out neon leotard at Manchester Pride on Friday night 

Performing her hit I Got U to the cheering crowd, the star also treated fans to a cover of Bryan Adams' Heaven and the 1991 house classic Finally by CeCe Peniston

Performing her hit I Got U to the cheering crowd, the star also treated fans to a cover of Bryan Adams’ Heaven and the 1991 house classic Finally by CeCe Peniston

Her voluminous raven tresses were worn poker straight while she coated her face in a thick layer of make-up for the glam occasion. 

Katie’s less-than-lowkey outing comes soon after she shared a cryptic post about being ‘hurt’ and ‘difficult times’ amid her ongoing marital drama with husband Lee Andrews.

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Since tying the knot with the controversial business leader in January following a whirlwind romance, Katie’s marriage has been plagued with drama including Lee’s prison stints, kidnapping, his various lies and accusations of scamming his exes.

And while Katie has publicly continued to support him, with the former glamour model recently pictured wearing her wedding ring, it appears things have taken their toll on her as she declared that she had ‘survived’ difficult times. 

Taking to Instagram on Sunday, Katie shared a snap of a model reading a newspaper, with the words on the paper reading: ‘My side of the story doesn’t matter anymore. 

‘Life happened, it hurt, I healed, but most importantly, I learned who deserves a seat at my table and who will never sit at it again.’

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She then tellingly wrote the words ‘I survived’ over another quote which stated: ‘I will never, ever forget who helped me in difficult times, who put me in difficult times, and who left me in difficult times.’

And while Katie didn’t specify who or what she was referring to, her words suggested all was not well in her personal life. 

The former glamour model, 48, made sure all eyes were on her as she wowed in a very racy cut-out neon leotard

Showcasing her surgically enhanced assets, she squeezed into the plunging one piece which she paired with fishnet tights and black ankle boots

Showcasing her surgically enhanced assets, she squeezed into the plunging one piece which she paired with fishnet tights and black ankle boots

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She told the audience: 'I'm a real person, I'm not a product. I'm just like all of us here. We all have our ups and downs.='

She told the audience: ‘I’m a real person, I’m not a product. I’m just like all of us here. We all have our ups and downs.=’

The star encouraged the crowd to sing along as she held the microphone out to them
Katie looked at home up on the stage

The star encouraged the crowd to sing along as she held the microphone out to them 

Katie got members of the crowd involved as she held hands with a man on stage

Katie got members of the crowd involved as she held hands with a man on stage

Katie looked in great spirits despite recently sharing a cryptic post about being 'hurt' and 'difficult times' amid her ongoing marital drama with husband Lee Andrews

Katie looked in great spirits despite recently sharing a cryptic post about being ‘hurt’ and ‘difficult times’ amid her ongoing marital drama with husband Lee Andrews 

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She was also seen vaping as she blew a cloud of vapor out her mouth

She was also seen vaping as she blew a cloud of vapor out her mouth 

She drank her coke and was fanned as she tried to cool down in the Canal Street venue

She drank her coke and was fanned as she tried to cool down in the Canal Street venue 

One fan looked overwhelmed as he stood beside the former glamour model

One fan looked overwhelmed as he stood beside the former glamour model 

The pair sang together as they celebrated Pride

The pair sang together as they celebrated Pride 

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It comes as it is thought Katie’s husband Lee, 43, continues to remain in jail, despite reports he was released last month.

The conman business leader was said to have been released in July following his second spell in Dubai’s Al Awir prison after being hit with fraud claims.

Now, it has been claimed that Lee was never released, with sources reporting his fellow inmates are ‘fed up with his constant lies’.

The Sun alleges that Lee has been telling his inmates his exit paperwork is ‘sorted’ each week, but as each new week comes he remains in prison.

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Meanwhile, Katie appears to be sticking by her husband as she put her wedding ring back on in an Instagram selfie recently.

The TV personality also flashed her ‘Owned By Lee’ tattoo while posing in a barely-there bikini. 

Katie previously vowed to hold her husband to account for ‘hurting other people’. 

In her podcast, Katie said: ‘In fact, I’m going to get Ben [the producer of Katie’s podcast] to interview him and Ben is going to delve in deep and I want to hear everything and it’s too much and I don’t like people hurting people.

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‘That’s all I’m saying on it, I’ve not put anything up online, so you’ve heard it here for the first time.’

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Tottenham v Newcastle LIVE: Premier League team news and line-ups as new signings Savio and Marmoush could make Spurs debuts

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Tottenham v Newcastle LIVE: Premier League team news and line-ups as new signings Savio and Marmoush could make Spurs debuts

When is Tottenham vs Newcastle?

Tottenham’s clash with Newcastle kicks off at 5:30pm this afternoon.

How can I watch it?

Viewers in the UK can watch the match on Sky Sports and NOW TV.

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Will Castle29 August 2026 16:05

Tottenham vs Newcastle LIVE!

Tottenham and Newcastle could unveil fresh recruits as two new-look sides clash in north London.

Newcastle have also been busy in the market and added an experienced midfielder in Nico Gonzalez as a replacement for Sando Tonali, who faces his former team this evening following his £100m switch to north London.

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Matthias Jaissle was denied a first Premier League as Liverpool scored a late penalty in a thrilling 2-2 draw last weekend, with Yoane Wissa and Anthony Elanga among the attacking players who seem to be given a new lease of life under the new Newcastle boss.

(Reuters)

Will Castle29 August 2026 16:00

Good afternoon

Hello there and welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of Tottenham’s clash with Newcastle in the Premier League.

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We’ll bring you all the latest team news, build-up and match action, right here!

Will Castle29 August 2026 15:48

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A64 closure for Leeds Festival at Bramham Park near Wetherby

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A64 closure for Leeds Festival at Bramham Park near Wetherby

Police are advising motorists of several temporary traffic management measures in place around the Leeds Festival site at Bramham Park near Wetherby until Monday, August 31.

The A64 is closed eastbound, from Leeds heading to York, from Kiddal Lane End to the A1(M) at junction 44 for York and Tadcaster.


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Traffic is expected to be slow on local roads between Shadwell, Scarcroft, and Thorner will also face closures at various times until about 3pm on Monday, August 31.

The restrictions are expected to remain in place throughout the festival period.

The measures will include temporary speed restrictions and clearways on roads surrounding the festival site.

Tom Ogden of The Blossoms performing on the Grid stage during the Leeds Festival at Bramham Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire. Picture date: Friday August 28, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Annabel Lee-Ellis/PA WireTom Ogden of The Blossoms performing on the Grid stage during the Leeds Festival at Bramham Park yesterday (Friday, August 28) (Image: Annabel Lee-Ellis / PA Wire)

The aim of these restrictions is to improve road safety, reduce congestion, and ensure the safe movement of the tens of thousands of people expected to attend the event, police said.

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To support these measures, speed camera enforcement vans will be operating throughout the festival.

Drivers should be aware that enforcement activity will be carried out across the affected routes, and any offences detected may lead to prosecution.

Superintendent Dan Wood of West Yorkshire Police said earlier this week: “Leeds Festival is one of the largest events in West Yorkshire and attracts a significant increase in traffic to the local road network.

“The temporary speed restrictions and clearways are being introduced to help keep everyone safe, including festival-goers, local residents, and road users.”

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Festivalgoers during a performance by The Blossoms on the Grid stage during the Leeds Festival at Bramham Park, Wetherby, West Yorkshire. Picture date: Friday August 28, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Annabel Lee-Ellis/PA WireFestivalgoers during a performance by The Blossoms on the Grid stage during the Leeds Festival at Bramham Park yesterday (Friday, August 28) (Image: Annabel Lee-Ellis / PA Wire)

Dedicated routes will direct different categories of visitors to the correct locations, including camping entrances, day/non-camping ticket parking areas, drop-off and pick-up points, and staff and authorised vehicle access routes.

Motorists who depend only on sat nav directions may be misled to unsuitable routes, causing unnecessary delays for themselves and other road users.

In addition to road disruptions, train services between York, Selby, and Leeds will also be affected due to an engineering project during the festival period.

From today until Monday, August 31, buses will replace trains between Selby and York, Leeds, and Micklefield, and between York and Moorthorpe.

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The disruption is due to an £800,000 upgrade to Brotherton Bridge, near Knottingley, which has carried trains across the River Aire since the mid-19th century and will undergo essential engineering work over the bank holiday weekend.

The project, which is part of a broader package of works in the area, will also include 1.4km of track renewal at Sherburn-in-Elmet.

The improvements will affect some Northern and TransPennine Express services, with buses replacing trains between Selby and York, Leeds, and Micklefield, as well as between York and Moorthorpe.

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