Paratroopers responded to a suspected hantavirus case at a golf course covered in rocks on an island in St Helena.

Army personnel descended on Tristan da Cunha, where a British national thought to have caught the disease had disembarked the MV Hondius cruise ship.

A team including six paratroopers, an RAF consultant and an army nurse parachuted onto the island, which has a population of 221 and is normally accessible only by boat.

They made the vital trip thanks to an RAF A400M transport aircraft which flew a 7,000-mile journey from RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire to Ascension Island before heading onto Tristan da Cunha.

It was supported by an RAF voyager for the 56-hour haul.

Brigadier Ed Cartwright, the commander of the 16 Air Assault Brigade, said: ‘I think the soldiers will have had a great time, but it’s pretty risky.

‘Parachuting has some inherent dangers. The winds were reasonably high.

‘The parachuters – I’ve spoken to them – they described it to me as a ‘pretty tasty jump’.’

The parachutists had to make a ‘difficult descent down through the cloud and then on to the drop zone, which was a golf course covered in rocks’, he explained.

He added that further medical support had been sent over to ensure the team could return safely.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed this was the first time humanitarian support had been delivered by parachute.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said: ‘We will continue to work closely with international authorities and the Tristan da Cunha administration, keeping those affected informed and ensuring the right support is in place in the UK and across the Overseas Territories.’

It comes as the UKHSA said the 22 British passengers on the MV Hondius would be repatriated to the UK and be held at an isolation facility at Arrowe Park Hospital on the Wirral, Merseyside.

They are expected to be kept at the former Covid quarantine centre for up to 72 hours.

None of the passengers who disembarked the vessel in Tenerife showed symptoms of the virus, Spanish authorities said.

Two confirmed British cases are currently in hospitals in South Africa and the Netherlands.

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Grassington in North Yorkshire has spent more than five years as Darrowby, the fictional market town at the centre of Channel 5’s popular drama All Creatures Great and Small.

The real-life location has become one of the most recognisable backdrops on British television, thanks to its stone buildings, cobbled streets and historic market square.

Filming for All Creatures Great and Small (Image: CHANNEL 5)

The Channel 5 series, based on the memoirs of Yorkshire vet James Herriot, returned to screens in 2020 as a reboot of the classic 1970s and 1980s programme.

Since then, it has run for six seasons and become Channel 5’s most successful drama to date.

Greg Barnett, Channel 5’s commissioning editor, said: “All Creatures Great and Small is a jewel in 5’s drama crown and continues to delight viewers year after year.

“Its warmth, humour and heart, set against the beauty of Yorkshire, have made it a firm audience favourite.’

Production on series seven began earlier this year, with filming getting underway in Grassington from March 25, while film crews have also been spotted in Pateley Bridge and Ripley, both near Harrogate.

Earlier this month, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority shared news of filming in a social media post, noting how the village was once again transformed into Darrowby under rare sunny skies.

The show brings the 1930s and 1940s back to life in Grassington, giving shopfronts and businesses a period makeover with vintage props, signage and set dressing.

The Devonshire Arms pub is rebranded as The Drovers Arms, a central gathering spot in the fictional town of Darrowby.

Grassington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

The Stripey Badger bookshop becomes Endelby’s Grocers, and a home in the village is used as Skeldale House, the surgery and residence of Herriot and his colleagues.

Staff at the Devonshire Arms said: “In July 2019, we were approached by a location scout named Alex asking if we would be interested in the pub’s frontage being used for a new TV show later in the year.

“We thought that seemed like fun, so we said yes.

“Little did we know that this would be the beginning of a huge adventure.

“The Devonshire has been used in All Creatures Great and Small on Channel 5 since the show premiered in 2020.

“Being able to watch the whole process, how the buildings are dressed, what is ‘real’ and what is a prop was fascinating.

“We have photos from every stage, from different seasons.”

All Creatures Great and Small has introduced the Yorkshire Dales to viewers around the world.

It has drawn tourists to Grassington, keen to explore the real-life Darrowby for themselves.

Visitors regularly arrive with location maps in hand, keen to see the pub, grocer and Skeldale House as seen on TV.

The cast of All Creatures Great and Small (Image: CHANNEL 5)

The series has boosted trade for local businesses, with increased demand for overnight stays, cafes and shops.

While filming does bring some disruption, including temporary road closures and alterations to shopfronts, residents have largely embraced Grassington’s onscreen identity and the pride it brings.

Channel 5 has confirmed that series seven of All Creatures Great and Small, its most successful drama series to date, has begun filming this spring in the Yorkshire Dales.

Based on the memoirs of Yorkshire vet James Herriot, the series has charmed audiences since its 2020 debut, airing six annual seasons to date.

Filming began on March 25 in Grassington, North Yorkshire, which doubles as the fictional town of Darrowby with its period shop fronts and cobbled streets.

Channel 5 and Masterpiece have renewed the series for both a seventh and eighth season, underlining the show’s continued popularity.

Production crews also filmed scenes in Bradford city centre in March, transforming part of the city into 1940s London with vintage vehicles and period detail.

Tess Daly and Vernon Kay announced they had separated after 23 years of marriage on Friday.

The reason behind TV presenters Tess Daly and Vernon Kay‘s shock split has been revealed by a friend. In a statement that stunned the entertainment world, the couple announced their “amicable” divorce after 23 years of marriage.

However, that joint statement released on social media didn’t unveil the root cause of the break up. A friend of the couple has now confirmed that there was no dramatic fall-out but, instead, the pair had slowly drifted apart since getting married.

They claimed that Tess, 57, and Vernon, 52, were at different stages of their life and that, although the five-year age gap seemed unimportant when they tied the knot in 2003, it appeared to have “widened” over recent years, reports the Mirror.

The close friend claimed that the couple didn’t have a lot in common anymore and that they have “aged differently”, according to the Daily Mail.

They said: “Tess needs to find a rich, older man with a yacht, while Vernon is still a big kid. He loves going out and having a good time, he loves to have a drink and a laugh.”

Vernon and Tess’ interests are said to be very different. He enjoys his time at gigs and watching American football while she prefers to relax on ‘girls weekends’.

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It is understood that Vernon has been to see Oasis five times on their reunion tour but not once with Tess. She is now reportedly ready to be ‘selfish’ after leaving Strictly Come Dancing.

The source said: “They are totally different people now. They used to have so much in common but things have changed. They have changed. They have aged differently.

“Tess needs to find a rich, older man with a yacht, while Vernon is still a big kid. He loves going out and having a good time, he loves to have a drink and a laugh.

“He loves the ’90s disco nights that he puts on. He loves football, American football and Oasis. Tess isn’t interested in any of that.”

BBC Radio 2 DJ Vernon has spent a lot of time socialising without his Tess in recent times. He attended the Brit Awards with Noel Gallagher and enjoys his 90s DJing nights.

Previously, Vernon had betrayed Tess’ trust when he became embroiled in a sexting scandal with former Page 3 girl Rhian Sugden. However, the couple have denied that any other parties were involved in the break up. Instead, the pair have celebrated their marriage and their two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16 – even toasting their split with a glass of champagne.

A source close to the couple told our sister title the Mirror: “After they released the statement, Vernon and Tess took a moment to toast each other and their futures. They only want the best for each other and their family.

“There has been no big fallout, more a gradual growing apart and wanting different things. They have vowed to stay friends and to keep things classy when it comes to the split and any future interviews they give. They only want the best for each other.”

Their carefully curated joint statement read: “After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.

“This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority.

“There are no other parties involved in this decision. We kindly ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this transition together. We will not be making any further public comments. Tess and Vernon.”

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Counter-terrorism officers have arrested two people in connection with an alleged arson attack at a former synagogue in Tower Hamlets

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Counter-terrorism detectives investigating a suspected arson attack at a former synagogue in east London have arrested two people.

A 45-year-old man and a 52-year-old woman were apprehended on Sunday (May 10) on suspicion of conspiracy to commit arson and remain in police custody. Officers were alerted at approximately 5.15am on May 5 by the London Fire Brigade following reports of a blaze at a former synagogue in Nelson Street, Tower Hamlets, reports the Mirror.

“CCTV enquiries indicated that the fire was started intentionally at around 05:10hrs,” the Metropolitan Police said. “Given the nature and location of the incident, the investigation has been led by Counter Terrorism Policing [CTP] London.”

Commander Helen Flanagan, Head of CTP London, said: “Today’s arrests are a significant step in our investigation into this attack and our enquiries are ongoing.”

“Our aim continues to arrest and charge all those responsible for the arson attacks and other incidents targeted at Jewish, Israeli and Iranian sites in recent weeks. We will not tolerate these hateful attacks on communities.

“While counter-terrorism officers continue to work closely with Metropolitan Police colleagues to provide protective security advice and support to various organisations, community venues and businesses, everyone can play their part to keep themselves and their communities safe.”

She encouraged anyone with worries about suspicious activity to contact police.

Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter, responsible for policing across Hackney and Tower Hamlets, stated: “This attack happened at a synagogue in the process of being sold to a local Somali Muslim organisation, and I know that those of all faiths in the local area have felt targeted and together condemn this horrendous act.”

He continued: “I want to reiterate that no hate crime, no matter who it is against, will be tolerated. It is completely unacceptable and has no place here.”

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that in the wake of the alleged assault on Hatzola Ambulance in March, alongside several other incidents, 33 individuals have been detained as part of various CTP inquiries.

Among them, eight have been charged with offences, including a 17-year-old boy who has pleaded guilty to arson following an attack on Kenton United Synagogue in Shaftsbury Avenue, Harrow, on April 18.

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Today, we look at a surpirsise move from Labour MP Catherine West. She’s called for cabinet ministers to challenge Keir Starmer’s leadership – threatening to do so herself if they don’t.

Laura and Paddy are joined by Henry to discuss she is, why she’s doing it, and how dangerous it could be for the prime minister.

They also look ahead to next week as the prime minister prepares to make a speech tomorrow, and what we could hear at the state opening of UK Parliament by King Charles on Wednesday.

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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. The presenters were Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O’Connell. It was made by Chris Flynn and Chloe Scannapieco. The social producer was Joe Wilkinson. The technical producer was James Piper. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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It is a huge game for both ends of the Premier League table on Sunday at the London Stadium as West Ham host Arsenal.

The Gunners are top of the table with three games to play and the fate of the title in their own hands, but cannot afford to slip up.

Manchester City are just two points behind and will be ready to pounce if Arsenal offer them the opportunity to do so.

West Ham will be in no mood to give their London rivals a boost, though, as they have a relegation battle on their hands.

The Hammers are a point adrift of safety and would love to pile the pressure on Tottenham by leapfrogging them with a win over Arsenal.

Spurs play on Monday night when they host Leeds and will be under far less strain in that fixture if West Ham are still below them.

Metro’s LIVE matchday blog will bring you all the build-up, confirmed team news and starting XIs, goal updates and minute-by-minute coverage

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Manager Hansi Flick will take charge of Barcelona in Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid despite the death of his father.

Tributes will be paid at the Nou Camp, with a minute’s silence before kick-off (20:00 BST) and players wearing black armbands during the game.

Announcing the death on Sunday afternoon, Barcelona said: “FC Barcelona and the entire blaugrana family wish to send all our love to Hansi Flick after the passing of his father.

“We share in your sorrow and our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.”

Flick, 61, can deliver back-to-back La Liga titles for Barcelona with a win or draw against Real.

The former Bayern Munich and Germany manager has won four trophies with Barcelona since replacing Xavi in May 2024.

Their fierce rivals from Madrid said in a statement: “Real Madrid, its president and its directors deeply regret the death of the father of Hansi Flick.

“Real Madrid wants to express its condolences and affection to their families and all their loved ones. Rest in peace.”

A man named Joey Graceffa shared the moment he rushed to his local animal rescue to save the life of a pregnant dog who was about to be put down, and she has the sweetest reaction

A man has shared his experience of rushing to rescue a pregnant German Shepard dog from his local animal shelter, as she was next on the list to be put down. And the dog’s reaction will melt your heart.

While animal shelters offer a great opportunity to give pets such as dogs and cats a second chance in finding their forever home, they are often a lot more busy than they are built for.

Most animal shelters will report that the summer months as well as the months after a big holiday are their busiest months. During these times, intake rates often rise while adoptions may dip, creating severe overcrowding in their facilities.

This leads to the shelters having to put some of their animals down to make room for other pets, especially for the pets who may have struggled in being adopted. In times like these, volunteers often step up to bring the at-risk pets home in an attempt to save their lives.

One of these people is Joey Graceffa, an influencer in Los Angeles who often takes to social media to document the process of rescuing at risk dogs and bringing them home to help them find their forever homes. In a recent TikTok video, Joey said he was about to rescue a pregnant German Shepard dog who was just days away from going into labour.

“I’m here at the animal shelter because a pregnant dog was posted that is on the euthanasia list and they’re about to put her down, so let’s go see if we can rescue her and get her out of here,” Joey said at the start of his video, as he was sat in his car outside the animal shelter.

The video then cut to show the dog in question, who was laying on a bed inside the shelter, with a panicked look in her eyes while breathing heavily, clearly feeling stressed.

The door to her cage opened and she quickly stood to her feet to come out. The video then cut again to the dog now being on a lead as they walked out of the shelter, with dogs barking in cages on both side of their path. The female dog looked unsure of what to do, as she did follow the shelter worker out of the room, but tried her best to get out of the lead, clearly not trusting where they were going.

But her demeanour changed the moment Joey walked with her outside of the shelter and towards his car, she kept walking as close to him as possible. The video then cut once again to her sitting nicely inside the crate Joey had in his car.

“Oh my god, your eyes are so beautiful,” Joey told her as she looked around behind him. He then lifted the crate out of his car, before letting her out into his garage to explore.

“Okay, come one,” he said encouraging. She slowly walked out of the crate, showing off her big baby bump, before running back into the garage to hide in a corner.

“You could just tell that she ad a lot of anxiety and she’d clearly been through a lot in her life and earning her trust is going to take some work, but I was up for the challenge,” Joe said as the clip continued to show the nervous dog slowly walk up to Joey’s hand to get some pets.

He then took the opportunity after having earned some trust from her to give her a bath outside in the garden, as Joey said she was really dirty and smelled bad. He then took her back into the garden to explore on her own.

“And I think that’s when something shifted and she finally felt safe and, I got my first kiss from her you guys,” he said as the clip showed her snuggled up against his legs before giving his hand some kisses. “She even rolled over and showed me her belly, and you could just see the stress evaporate from her. And I’m just so glad that I got her out of that shelter, and now we’re ready for puppies.”Ju

Just two days later, Joey returned to his TikTok to share that the dog had successfully delivered nine puppies, and the happy family is still being pampered and treated with love by Joey.

The former Coronation Street star has paid an emotional tribute to the The Only Way Is Essex cast member following his tragic death

Ryan Thomas has shared the last message he received from reality TV star Jake Hall following his tragic death, aged 35.

The former Coronation Street star had taken to social media to pay tribute to the The Only Way Is Essex (Towie) cast member, who was found dead on Wednesday at a holiday villa in Majorca.

The message was shared to his 1.3 million Instagram followers along with a black-and-white video compilation of himself with Hall, describing him as always being the “coolest guy in the room”.

Ryan emotionally wrote: “The moment I met Jake, I was in awe of him. I found myself gravitating towards him. He was always the coolest guy in the room, he had class, charisma, this magic about him that nobody else had. Anyone who met him, even once, remembered him forever.”

The actor told of how he used to call Hall “nearly every day” to remind him “how special he was and how much happiness he brought people”. He also recalled how it “took a while” for the pair to become friends, but once they were they became inseparable, adding: “The deep chats, the hysterical laughs even the petty fallouts — we shared it all. We had the same morals, the same family values, and the same outlook on life: we genuinely wanted people around us to win.”

Ryan also joked that Hall would have told him to “shut up” if he could read the lengthy tribute, as he continued: “For all the people that admired his talent, what mattered most to him was always his family. He idolised his dad, adored his mum, and loved his little brother more than words could ever explain.”

Referring to the TV star’s eight-year-old daughter River, who he shares with Real Housewives of Cheshire star Missie Beqiri, he added: “His next chapter is written in the stars now and it’s all about River. I promise she’ll grow up surrounded by love and stories about how inspiring and powerful her daddy is.”

Ryan, who is famed for having played Jason Grimshaw in ITV’s Corrie, concluded the post by revealing the last text he received from Hall, and said he was sending the message back. It read: “I love you mate. More than you’ll ever know.”

Hall, who ran a menswear brand, By Jake Hall, joined the cast of Towie in 2015, and dated co-star Chloe Lewis before quitting in 2024. He also dated Misse, with whom he has a daughter, River, eight.

Tributes have poured in for Hall over the last few days, and the mother of his child posted a message to Instagram on Saturday saying that her and her daughter’s hearts were “shattered”.

Albanian model Misse shared photos of herself, Hall and their daughter together and said that the influx of messages following his death is “both heartbreaking and beautiful all at once”. She also told of how she loved Hall from “the very first moment I saw you”, and said: “You left behind your mini version, our River, and for that we are forever grateful. You will always live on through her, and you will forever be with us.”