Rachael Flanagan is facing accusations of hypocrisy after her firm dropped its real living wage pledge

A multimillion-pound cleaning company has again come under fire after giving further details of its controversial decision to quietly drop its real living wage commitment. Last month we revealed Mrs Buckét had reduced some staff’s earnings to the minimum wage while continuing to present itself as a “living wage employer” on its website.

Now we have seen a leaked internal email from the Swansea-based commercial cleaning firm telling staff “the key facts” on the changes. In the email it admits it should have updated its marketing “sooner” – having only removed the real living wage accreditation from its website after WalesOnline learned it had stopped being valid more than three weeks earlier.

Mrs Buckét – which had a projected turnover of £11.5m for this year – built much of its social media brand on how every one of its 500 staff earned at least the real living wage. Chief executive Rachael Flanagan often spoke publicly about the pledge and her belief in “staying true to our values”.

The real living wage is £13.45 an hour – as opposed to the statutory minimum wage of £12.71 – and is calculated by the Living Wage Foundation to meet “the real cost of living”. More than 16,000 employers across the UK are accredited by the foundation.

When Mrs Buckét decided to bring some staff down to the minimum wage, it failed to notify the foundation, which continued to list the company as an “accredited living wage employer”.

Following our recent report, Mrs Buckét sent an email to staff stating: “I appreciate this is an emotive topic and it’s not easy to see the company we work for criticised publicly.

“The key facts are: we currently have 24 colleagues across three sites paid the [statutory minimum] national living wage. We have 160 customers and these roles relate to two new customer wins this year and one longstanding customer. Over 95% of our colleagues continue to be paid the real living wage.”

It goes on: “We should have removed the accreditation from our website sooner once these colleagues moved to national living wage in May. This has now been corrected.”

The email states the business is still a “strong supporter” of the real living wage – a claim that has left some staff baffled. One whistleblower told us: “If two clients are new, why did they take them on if they were not willing to commit to pay the real living wage, which is a key commitment?

“They willingly quoted and accepted the clients that went against the pledge. It just stinks, really. If it’s only 5% of staff on minimum wage, why did they not make sure all colleagues were still paid the real living wage and keep their accreditation that was so important to them?

“They seemed to have no intention of taking it down from the website or notifying the foundation. They’ve been caught out and they’re doubling down.”

One of the firm’s biggest clients, Llanelli-based distribution giant Owens Group, refused to accept a price increase following the announcement last October that the real living wage would be going up by 85p an hour from May 1, 2026.

“Rather than Mrs Buckét absorbing the hit on their profit margin, they’ve cut people’s pay to minimum wage,” said one whistleblower last month. “The real living wage is on all our marketing material to prospective clients and it’s just not true. We are talking about some of the poorest people in the community, working awful hours and cleaning in horrible environments.

“They say they’re about their people but clearly they’re not. Mrs Buckét could 100% afford to take the hit but the cleaners are the ones that have lost out. That 74p an hour could make a real difference to someone in a cost of living crisis. I think it’s really shady after the way the company has promoted itself.

“Cleaners received a letter stating their new pay and it seemed like the company was just hoping no one would push back. The name of the company is based on a character from Keeping Up Appearances, and that’s exactly what we do. It’s very much about the glitz and glam and social media.”

The foundation has said it will be “in touch with the company in question directly”. It has also urged workers to come forward if they believe their employer to be in breach of their real living wage commitments.

Last month Ms Flanagan was recognised by judges at the Institute of Directors Awards Wales for her belief in “people-first” and “values-led” culture. After being named director of the year, she said: “Our growth over the past year has been driven by staying true to our values.”

When the chief executive started the company as an 18-year-old it was a one-woman cleaning operation, and she has since transformed it into one of the UK’s biggest commercial cleaning firms, with a presence in south-west England as well as across Wales.

In a 2022 interview with WalesOnline, Ms Flanagan took aim at the public perception that cleaners are “poorly paid”, adding: “All our staff are paid at least the real living wage.”

According to the leaked email, the pledge was dropped so Mrs Buckét could “support sustainable growth while continuing to deliver opportunities for our colleagues”.

Kate Ablett, the cleaning firm’s managing director, told us: “Mrs Buckét proudly champions the real living wage (RLW), with over 95% of our team paid at or above this rate from April 1, 2026. In a small number of cases, we have agreed a [minimum] wage alternative where commercial constraints make immediate RLW alignment unachievable in the short-term. Our long-term commitment remains to provide fair pay for all colleagues.”

Owens Group declined to comment.

If you would like to tell us about a story we should be investigating, you can email our investigations editor at conor.gogarty@walesonline.co.uk

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After several quieter years, wildfires have returned to western Greenland.

Two recent fires have brought renewed attention to a landscape more typically associated with glaciers and melting ice sheets than flames. But when we visited the region in 2023 to investigate a series of unusual large wildfires that burned a few years earlier, local residents told us they would not be surprised if the fires came back.

They remembered how dry the landscape had become before the fires, which made wildfire easier to start and harder to control. For people living around Sisimiut on Greenland’s west coast, these latest events are therefore not entirely unexpected.

Our research suggests wildfires may be part of a new Arctic reality.

During our 2023 fieldwork we spoke to firefighters, local business owners and land-users, tourism managers and international visitors, all of whom had direct experience of the earlier fires. A common thread was that these fires were unlike anything they remembered.

Older generations were particularly shocked. As one resident put it, “it was something new, even for us.” Their recollections match our own analysis using satellite data and newspaper reports that found no landscape fires in western Greenland from 1995 to 2007, but more than 20 since.

Many of those fires, including one which burned in the tundra for several weeks, coincided with an unusually warm, dry spell between 2015 and 2020. Although wetter summers followed, bringing a temporary lull, this year’s fires suggest those conditions have returned.

The surprise wasn’t limited to local residents. This part of Greenland attracts thousands of cruise ship visitors and adventure tourists, many hiking the multi-day Arctic Circle Trail between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut. The hikers we spoke to were shocked to encounter fires: “I’ve obviously heard of wildfires before but, you know, you sort of associate that with Australia or California […] it never crossed my mind that it would ever happen in Greenland.”

That risk has changed how the landscape is managed. Many of the fires took place along the trail, leading local authorities to remind visitors about responsible use of campfires, and to distribute a briefing note on wildfires that we produced.

Greenland has always had at least some fires, and traditional landscape users have long practised safe fire management, for example building fires on bedrock away from vegetation and taking care with smoke ovens, passing this wisdom down the generations to this day. However, the exceptionally dry conditions in those years made the landscape itself much more flammable.

The burning tundra

Unlike the forest fires that dominate headlines elsewhere, Greenland’s wildfires typically burn in the tundra, spreading through mosses, shrubs and organic-rich soils such as peat that are increasingly being exposed as permafrost melts.

This makes them particularly difficult to fight. Firefighters in Sisimiut told us that the fires don’t just burn across the surface, but can smoulder underground for days or even weeks, spreading unnoticed before flaring up again. During long dry spells, nearby lakes may also become too shallow to provide enough water to put out the fires, making an already challenging task even harder in Greenland’s remote tundra.

These fires have far-reaching consequences. Smouldering tundra releases large amounts of carbon that has been locked away in soils for centuries, adding to the greenhouse gases warming the climate. When soot from those fires is deposited on the nearby Greenland Ice Sheet it may even accelerate melting by darkening the surface. The fires also produce fine particulate pollution, which can travel long distances and pose serious health risks to communities far from the flames.

Greenland’s wildfire future

Scientists have warned for years that climate change would increase wildfires across the Arctic. In places such as Siberia it’s already happening. In that context, the 2015-2020 fires may represent Greenland following the same path. As the climate continues to warm, and the conditions that drove the fires become more common, wildfire is likely to become an increasingly familiar feature of a landscape long defined by ice.

“For sure, we have the fire on our memory”, one person we interviewed told us in 2023, when our fieldwork took place in a week of constant rain. But even then, the residents were clear: if dry conditions returned, so would fires.

This summer, after an unusually warm and dry winter, that is exactly what happened.

July is very much a retrograde month- Mercury, Neptune and Saturn all entering or leaving their backwards cycles.

As such, slow down. Pause and reflect. Do less and notice what you’re left doing all the more. Sometimes it’s easier to savour and enjoy a lighter load, sometimes it’s necessary.

Venus in Virgo, from the 9th, puts us in a practical mood in our relationship realm. Love language is set to demonstrations of love, helpful support, favours and chores shared or halved. Do more than you talk about doing and your loved ones will appreciate and reciprocate it. Lead by example.

The continuation of Cancer season and the New Moon in Cancer lets us all get a relationship reset. Draw closer to your inner circle, family, or partner and talk about what the future holds, what hopes and fears you’re harbouring and how you can share the good and bad. When you’re all on the same side, pulling in the same direction, anything is possible.

Leo season entering on 22nd brings the fun and passion back too, so you’ll be ready to put plans into action.

The end of Mercury’s retrograde, on the 23rd, is always a good time to swing back into business, pick up the pace, and book those trips, holidays and moves that will shape the remainder of 2026 for you. Create things to work towards and look forward to. The reset has happened and you can return to your busyness!

Aries

March 21 to April 20

Tarot cards for Aries for July: Eight of Swords, Temperance, The Moon

Meaning: A great mystery is going to be solved about a relationship that you spend a great deal of time (over)thinking about. And this epiphany moment is going to help resolve whatever the issues have been because, though you’ve tried to deny it, you are the root cause of it. And therefore you can change it. Overnight, just like that! It’s a mindset shift too, so nothing onerous or taxing is required.

The Moon shows you receiving a revelation, a lightbulb moment, maybe around the New Moon in Cancer, maybe as the result of yet another conversation. And the deal is this: it’s more in your head than it is in real life. The Eight of Swords sees you projecting, assuming what they’re thinking, and then torturing yourself with that. And none of it’s true or real.

So, you can just let it go, clear the decks and take them at face value vs an imagined villainous version. Temperance sweeps in to ground everything, make you feel secure again, and bring this relationship back to safe middle ground, in harmony and balance. Phew.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

Tarot cards for Taurus for July: King of Swords, The Star, Judgement

Meaning: When you align what you’re good at with what folk truly want and demand, then resolve to make that happen… well, the sky’s the limit. You have a practical, realistic, shrewd nose for what folk like, need and will pay good money for.

Judgement has you assessing the situation correctly once again. And the King of Swords is your calculating, enterprising side emerging to make the most of this insight, to turn it into a creative, future-proofed opportunity that you can invest it and earn rewards from. You are a great seller, inventor and organiser. Use these skills.

The Star shows that amazing success lies ahead here. This time next year you could be a millionaire, as someone once said! It’s true though, you have everything you need to make a project, role or idea soar, and you’ve now also got the motivation and energy to see it through. Get to work. Bring us whatever it is we need. Make a fortune. This is your era, Taurus.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Tarot cards for Gemini for July: Two of Cups, The Wheel of Fortune, Nine of Cups

Meaning: You are more of a giver than a taker, all Geminis are. Selfless, in a way, and always ready to split things 60-40, in the favour of the other person (so long as they’re liked). It’s often a surprise to you when folk are spontaneously generous, loving or kind back, you sort of come to be self-sufficient quite young and often remain that way.

That changes this July. Something shifts. The Wheel of Fortune brings a transformation, a good one as shown by the wish-making Nine of Cups. And the area impacted is the Two of Cups — your closest relationship/s.

What’s changing is reciprocation, the balance, the give and take. It’s becoming more even in really unexpected and beautiful ways. Collaboration, alliance, co-creation. You are seeing how you can join forces and become more than the sum of two. You are seeing new potential for what you can create and deliver when you align on it. And this opens your mind to a whole new world. Enjoy it!

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

Tarot cards for Cancer for July: Five of Cups, Four of Coins, The Magician

Meaning: Sweep all sadness, regrets and doubts aside, Cancer, as your star sign season unfolds alongside your own wishful New Moon in Cancer, you can make new magic happen for yourself!

The Five of Cups asks you to admit, acknowledge, and release a regret or sorrow you’ve been nursing. It is sapping energy and its moment has long passed, so let it go. Look ahead. The Four of Coins is bringing you a glow-up opportunity, a phoenix from the ashes story, a chance to go again, do over, and transform what was causing dissatisfaction or discontent.

Transform. Rise. Change. The Magician puts the power in your hands. You have it all within you — the creativity, imagination, drive and charisma. You can reinvent yourself and your lifestyle and live the life you dream of. You truly can. Believe me. Do this. Do this for you.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

July 24 to August 23

Tarot cards for Leo for July: Three of Coins, Nine of Swords, Ace of Wands

Meaning: Relationship renewal and repair is a major theme for you this July, as you start to look ahead to your birthday and another spin around the Sun. You have been nursing some resentment, jealousy, worry or dread regarding your bonds, perhaps projecting feelings of insecurity onto other people, seeing yourself in a negative (projected) light through their eyes.

The Nine of Swords shows this is mostly vapour and hot air, created by an overactive mind. Get to the root cause of your insecurity, speak about it with someone trusted, and release this self doubt. The Three of Coins shows you are loved, admired and respected, there is nothing to fear from other people.

Your Leo season brings a beautiful gift — a new beginning. The Ace of Wands can apply to travel, education, creativity, career, lifestyle or friendship. You’re going to receive a birthday treat from the cosmos that feels authentically you, and uplifts your spirits.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

Tarot cards for Virgo for July: Three of Wands, The Lovers, Knight of Cups

Meaning: A random encounter with someone leads to a tempting offer that you really, deep down, suspect you should say no to… but you feel strangely compelled to throw caution to the wind for once and say yes. The Lovers and the Knight of Cups puts the odds on this being something romantic and intense, something that feels like fate. And it will change the course of your life, for sure; one of those sliding door moments.

Choose carefully. Maybe fate is doing all of this for a reason, putting a new option in front of you because you need it. Not necessarily to take it up, but to pressure test and measure the passion you have for what you’ve already got.

The Three of Wands reveals you can go either route, and neither is ‘wrong’, as such, but each one leads to a very different destination. So imagine the road ahead and consider your appetite for it before saying no or yes. This is a major pivot point.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

Tarot cards for Libra for July: The Fool, Two of Coins, The World

Meaning: When you open up to everything the world has to offer you — every invite, every option, every glimmer or slim chance — you realise you are abundant in choice, you can really do anything from this point. There is so much more available than you realise, because we all get set in our routines, expectations and ruts.

The Fool reveals you are going to step out of your rut and see all that you could be doing instead. The Two of Coins reveals a glut of opportunity. And once you notice it, and welcome it, then more and more will flow towards you, drawn by your magnetic interest.

The World shows this will lead to new purpose and goal-setting, a broader perspective, a greater climb to a much more rewarding destination, and possibly travel or even location change too. It all starts with expanding your perception, and that all starts this July.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

Tarot cards for Scorpio for July: Six of Cups, Nine of Wands, The Wheel of Fortune

Meaning: Looking to your past will help you forge the ideas, purpose, and glinting steely ambition to design and execute your future. This is a pivot month, of pausing to reflect and then rebuild.

The Six of Cups asks you to wander Memory Lane, specifically seeking powerful moments of success, achievement, pride and glory.Where were you winning, who with, and how? The Nine of Wands promises that it is not so hard to imagine building on these successes in the future. Extracting the essence of why you won and replicating it in other fields, areas, and roles. The secret of your success is waiting to be revealed.

Once you have the formula, test it out. The Wheel of Fortune will bring ample opportunities to use this equation to focus differently, on new things, in a different way, and reap the rewards. You have figured something very important out this retrograde season… maybe you just needed to slow down and remember.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

Tarot cards for Sagittarius for July: Eight of Swords, Temperance, The Moon

Meaning: The Full Moon in Cancer on July 14 is a powerful day for you; a day of reckoning to some degree. No more running from what lies inside or feels heavy, difficult or scary. The Moon shows that when you understand the nature, trigger, and root cause of your suppressed feelings, you will unlock a massive personal insight and opening for growth. And change. And progress. Know yourself first.

The Eight of Swords shows this is likely around your projections or assumptions about what other people think of you and have in store for you. Somehow you feel it will be negative and you’ve been shrinking, diminishing and overthinking these fantasy outcomes. When you realise this is all projection, the relief and freedom will be tangible. You have simply been imagining the worst. It’s not real. Let it go. Come back to who you really are and what it is you most want to do.

Temperance has you back in business by the time Leo season rolls around on July 22, feeling confident, charismatic, warm and ready for action. You feel strong and settled in your own selfhood and eager to make the most of an exciting summer season. This look in the cosmic mirror is restorative and empowering.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 21

Tarot cards for Capricorn for July: Eight of Cups, The Devil, Ten of Cups

Meaning: The Devil is your sign’s talisman card, representing your worldliness, materialism, serious ambition and sophistication. It also shows you might be in danger of being your own worst enemy right now, especially when it comes to your close relationship/s. You can be extremely stubborn!

You mustn’t fall prey to old habits and patterns that you stick to even though things have changed, there’s no need to act this way, and you know, deep down, it’s not helping. Admit you’re open to new ideas or approaches, and test them out. This is not defeat, it’s progress!

The Eight and Ten of Cups asks you to start with a disappointment, a let down, a setback, that you would typically judge harshly, write off, and never allude to again. How about a second chance? How about coming at it from a different angle and seeing what unfolds? These cards promise that a beautiful era of fellowship, friendship and super hot passion could ensue from just being open to second chances and do overs. It won’t feel like backing down, it will feel good.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 22 to February 19

Tarot cards for Aquarius for July: Knight of Wands, Strength, Knight of Coins

Meaning: Courage, mercy and optimism — these qualities will help elevate your July to epic proportions! Be like a Knight — striving to do your best, for the best, with the best of intentions for all — and Karma will reward you.

The Knight of Wands and Coins both offer you their suit’s powers; courage, optimism, compassion, practicality and mercy. The ability to understand, not judge, and do something positive to make things better. Being kind and strong is simply lending others your strength when they are weak. Be that Knight. Be the one that makes situations better.

The Strength card brings you all of the power you need, and more. In fact, seeing others in need and making a difference will boost your own self esteem and perception to such a level that your own issues will seem so obvious and easy to resolve, and you will. Helping others helps you this July, maybe that is the Cancer season energy infiltrating your sign.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Tarot cards for Pisces for July: Seven of Cups, King of Coins, The Moon

Meaning: Your planet, Neptune, is in retrograde all month which makes you look inwards, seek the truth of your current situation and how you feel about it, and your intentions as a result.

The Moon and King of Coins join forces to bring you both the insight, wisdom and motivation to see things as they are and take steps about it. Sometimes you can daydream your way through problems, as seen by the imaginative Seven of Cups, and take solace in adding a veneer of illusion and magic to everyday life, hiding the flaws and scars.

Your rose-tinted glasses are fully off for July, but it actually feels empowering and you’re glad to be taking action and taking control, rather than letting these things rumble on and keep hurting you. This is a powerful month, Pisces.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Kerry King has been reading, teaching and creating tarot for 30 years. Join her magical, exclusive Tarot Club for forecasts, predictions, lessons and readings straight to your inbox. Enjoy one month free for all Metro readers (no lock-in or commitment) over on Patreon.

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

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An 18-month trial of the Rougier Route which aims to speed up bus journeys is set to begin in January subject to an upcoming decision, City of York Council officials have said.

Tom Horner, the council’s travel behaviour lead, said fundamental changes were needed to make buses and transport more broadly more reliable and sustainable.

Council Labour transport spokesperson Cllr Kate Ravilious said the scheme aimed to break the vicious cycle of slower buses leading to less passengers and higher fares.

Proposals for the £2.35 million trail scheme are set to go before the council’s executive on Tuesday, July 7.

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The scheme would see private traffic barred from driving  from Rougier Street along George Hudson Street to Micklegate during the 18-month trial if proposals are approved.

The route would remain open to buses, cyclists and emergency services vehicles with restrictions in place from 7am to 11pm daily.

A new one-way loop would send private traffic from Rougier Street and along Tanner Row, Toft Green and Micklegate to the junction with George Hudson Street.

A bus lane would run southbound along George Hudson Street with a ‘bus gate’ in place from the road’s junction with Micklegate to the latter’s junction with Skeldergate and North Street.

Warnings would be given for breaking the rules for the trial’s first six months with fines handed out afterwards, though repeat offenders in the initial half year would receive penalties.

A map showing how the proposed Rougier Route in York would work and changes since the scheme was first unveiled (Image: City of York Council)

Mr Horner said the trial could be paused if necessary to avoid congestion if road works are taking place elsewhere.

The official added the scheme would likely be paused while Lendal Bridge is closed to traffic for works which are set to get underway next year following delays.

Confirmation of when the scheme will start comes as a number of changes have been made to the proposals following a series of consultations which began last summer.

Hackney carriage taxis and Blue Badge holders would be exempt from the restrictions, following warnings from the former that the restrictions could increase their journey times and costs for passengers.

Private hire drivers will continue to be barred along the route but restrictions on them and other aspects of the trial would be kept under review.

A registration system to allow access for Blue Badge holders and Bishophill residents travelling to and from their homes would also be created at a cost of £150,000.

Disability rights activist Flick Williams threatened legal action against the council unless Blue Badge holders were exempt from the restrictions.

Work to inform tourists, delivery and freight drivers, business visitors and satnav and online maps operators of the changes would also be done if the proposals are backed.

Almost three fifths, about 58.4 per cent, of people who took part in a council consultation on the proposals said they would or could make buses more reliable.

About 79.5 per cent said York was negatively affected by congestion but only around 37.4 per cent said they would definitely use the bus if sustainable routes are introduced.

More than 1,000 buses use the Rougier Street and George Hudson Street corridor every day, according to council data.

Figures also showed buses are currently travelling an average of 4mph from Stonebow to York Station.

Average journeys of the 840 and 843 Coastliner service have increased by 16 minutes, a third longer, between Blossom Street and Peasholme Green from 2019 to 2025.

Cllr Ravilious said measures to free up roads for buses were needed and all the evidence suggested Rougier Street and George Hudson Street corridor was the place to do it.

Cllr Ravilious said: “The only way improvements we’ve already made to buses will work is if they can get through the traffic.

“When you look at traffic jams in York it’s often one person sat in a car but one bus can take up to 70 people which is 70 fewer cars, if we can get more people on buses that frees up roads for people who need to drive.”

The White House has stated the President is not willing to budge on NATO allies such as Britain sticking to their pledge to spend 5% of economic output on defence by 2035

US President Donald Trump said he expects NATO allies to stick to their defence spending pledges, amid controversy over future UK military funding.

Mr Trump’s demand came as Sir Keir Starmer was due to unveil a long-delayed investment plan for the armed forces. The plan has been dogged by internal government wrangling and rocked by ministerial resignations.

Sir Keir insists the plan will keep Britain “safe and secure long into the future”.

John Healey, who recently quit as defence secretary over the military financial settlement on offer, has warned the plan “falls well short of what is required for defence and the country at this dangerous time”.

The row erupted ahead of a crucial NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey next week, where ally members are expected to set out a “credible path” to spending 5% of economic output on defence by 2035.

This is split into 3.5% gross domestic product (GDP) core defence spending commitment, and a 1.5% GDP commitment to wider resilience spending.

In his resignation letter, Mr Healey suggested the UK was on course to spend only 2.68% of GDP on core defence by 2030, casting doubt on the country’s ability to meet the target of 3.5% within the required timeframe.

A White House official said: “President Trump expects NATO allies to abide by their 5% defence spending pledge.”

The new Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis is understood to have secured additional money for the military. This would take the total allocation to some £14.5 billion, up from the £13.5 billion offered to Mr Healey, but still short of the £28 billion officials previously said was needed.

The funding dispute comes at a critical time, with Mr Trump casting doubt on the commitment of the US to NATO that he previously branded “a paper tiger”.

Mr Trump says the US has been bankrolling the defence of other countries. Tensions have also risen over Mr Trump’s designs on Greenland, which belongs to fellow alliance member Denmark, and the response of allies to the Iran war.

Earlier this month, US defence secretary Pete Hegseth announced a review of US military forces in Europe as he cast doubt on some members meeting their spending commitments. He argued that some members still seem “to think the era of free-riding is here”.

The parts of the UK where money stretches the most when buying a home have been named.

New research from the UK’s biggest property platform has revealed what buyers can get for the current average asking price of a home and where their money will go the furthest. One area of Scotland was named the part of the UK where homebuyers will get the most for their money.

On Tuesday, June 30, Rightmove revealed revealed what buyers in the UK can get for the current average asking price of a home, which is approximately £378,000. The experts looked at what this figure can buy in different local areas across the nation, based on current homes listed for sale.

According to Rightmove, there are clear regional differences in what buyers can typically afford with a budget of £378,000. In Scotland, this figure can stretch to a four or even a five-bedroom property in certain areas of the country—significantly more than parts of England.

The experts revealed that North Lanarkshire is the area of the UK where homebuyers will get the most for their money. In North Lanarkshire, the average asking price of a five-bedroom detached house is £376,052—which is slightly below the national average of £378,000.

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North Lanarkshire borders the northeast of Glasgow and is home to many of the city’s suburbs, commuter towns, and villages. The biggest settlement in the council area is Cumbernauld, which has a population of approximately 50,530, while other large towns include Coatbridge, Airdrie, and Motherwell.

North Lanarkshire is also home to many of Scotland’s most popular and iconic places of interest, including M&D’s amusement park, the 1,100-acre Strathclyde Country Park, and The Time Capsule water park. Other popular attractions include Drumpellier Country Park and the North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre.

Elsewhere, County Durham in North East England was named the area of the UK where money goes the second-furthest when buying a home. Nottingham and Charnwood in the East Midlands follow in third and fourth respectively, while the East Riding of Yorkshire rounds out the top five.

On the other hand, in London and parts of South East England, the current average asking price of a home of £378,000 is more commonly associated with smaller homes such as flats or one-bedroom properties according to Rightmove. The average asking price of a studio in Tower Hamlets in London is £357,556, while in Hackney a studio flat averages £341,021.

Rightmove property expert Colleen Babcock commented: “Buyers are weighing up value more carefully in the current market, and this analysis shows just how much variation there can be in what the same budget buys in different parts of Britain. For some movers, the price of an average home could mean a flat in a more expensive city market, while in other areas it could stretch to a much larger family home.

“With the number of homes for sale at historically high levels for this time of year, homes that feel well-priced for their size, location and condition are more likely to stand out. Affordability remains a key driver of buyer behaviour, and many movers are taking the time to compare what they can get for their budget before making a decision.”

See below for the 10 areas in the UK where “money goes furthest” and where “money stretches the least” when buying a house.

Where ‘money goes furthest’ when buying a house

1. North Lanarkshire, Scotland
2. County Durham, North East
3. Nottingham, East Midlands
4. Charnwood, East Midlands
5. East Riding of Yorkshire, Yorkshire and The Humber
6. Liverpool, North West
7. Kirklees, Yorkshire and The Humber
8. South Tyneside, North East
9. Leicester, East Midlands
10. Worcester, West Midlands

Where ‘money stretches the least’ when buying a house

1. Tower Hamlets, London
2. Lambeth, London
3. Hackney, London
4. Southwark, London
5. Camden, London
6. Wandsworth, London
7. Islington, London
8. Hammersmith and Fulham, London
9. Richmond upon Thames, London
10. Haringey, London

South American football expert Tim Vickery felt a typical Paraguayan spirit shone through on the day.

“Paraguay love adversity,” he said.

“If you’re looking for someone to relate to in this World Cup, look for Paraguay. That Welsh word ‘hwyl’, that grit and drive, when it gets difficult, that’s when they come alive.

“They’ve come through adversity to knock out a giant of European football. It’s not always pretty, they play within their limitations, but what drama, what a story.

“The objective in this tournament was to make Paraguay feel represented and they’ve done that in full.”

Paraguay now play either two-time champions France or Sweden iin Philadelphia on Saturday (22:00 BST).

Paraguay’s president Santiago Pena had already declared a public holiday after they had sealed World Cup qualification with a game to spare.

Now, with a place in the last 16 secured, attention turns to what he might have in store next for the celebrations.

Head coach Alfaro said he spoken to the president yesterday.

“He might declare another national holiday,” he joked.

“I want all of Paraguay to enjoy this. We may have our defects, but we have a heart that never gives up, and that’s what keeps us alive.”

The historic city of York has been named in the top 20 list of the prettiest places to live in Britain by the estate and letting agents, Aston & Co.

The list features a range of villages, market towns, and cities such as Cambridge, Stamford, and Lindfield.

Placed right between London and Edinburgh, the city is popular with tourists visiting for a long weekend but is also loved by those who call it home.

York has lots of little streets to explore with independent shops. (Image: Amy Britton)

What can I do in York?

From restaurants, pubs, and the famous York Minster to hidden gem attractions, it is easy to see why the city made it onto the list.

The York Minster is a must-visit attraction thanks to its Gothic design and stained-glass windows.

If you are looking for a place to relax that is still in the city centre, you can take a moment to sit in the York Museum Gardens.

The gardens are known for their “fantastic collection of trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs” as well as the medieval ruins of St Mary’s Abbey that you are free to explore.

The gardens are next to the River Ouse, where you can take a walk along the water.

The Shambles is also worth a trip with its independent shops and food spots, including a traditional sweet shop, a gift shop, and the Shop That Must Not Be Named that sells Harry Potter merchandise.

The city also has loads of restaurants and pubs with nice outdoor spaces for the sunny weather, including Ye Olde Starre Inne, which is believed to be the oldest licensed premise in York and has a beer garden.

There are lots of cafés and cake shops to pick up a sweet treat, with Brew & Brownie being a popular option thanks to its “excellent coffees” and “delicious” food.

On the city, the estate and letting agents said: “The walled city of York is a real beauty.

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“York Minster, a 13th Century Gothic cathedral, is just one its impressive historic buildings.

“Many of its original medieval buildings still stand today, including the 3.4 kilometre walls.”

Do you agree that York is one of the prettiest places to live in Britain? Let us know in the comments below.

Michael Carrick has spent time implementing his own style and rules on the Manchester United squad, which included scrapping old regulations

Michael Carrick has scrapped eight rules that were previously implemented at Manchester United as he stamps his authority on the squad. The boss secured his permanent appointment at Old Trafford following a successful caretaker stint from January.

During his temporary tenure as manager, Carrick recorded 12 wins, four draws and two losses and brought United back up to third in the Premier League table. This means that the team have returned to Champions League football and the former club captain will be focused on keeping all squad members content and ready for the challenge ahead.

He has been implementing his own style at Old Trafford for several months, including scrapping some controversial rules. Here, Mirror Football has listed all the regulations that Carrick has removed during his time so far.

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Day-after training scrapped

One such rule was the day-after training that the team followed under Ruben Amorim and Erik ten Hag. Both managers had required their sides to report to the training facilities the day after a matchday for recovery work.

Carrick has scrapped the rule and has instead implemented designated rest days within 24 hours of a game. Recovery sessions now take place two days after a match.

Dressing room food ban

Amorim had banned food from being brought into the dressing room, stressing the crucial nature of developing player’s fitness levels. However, this may have dropped player morale in the process.

It is understood that Carrick eliminated that rule by turning the area into a safe space where players feel appreciated. Food has been allowed back in and there is more of an informal nature in the dressing room.

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Mandatory post-match debriefs

Carrick then brought in a new rule that every star must remain in the dressing room until they believe they have been heard and spoken to in a well-natured manner.

Harry Maguire has emerged as a leader in that space and has become a key vocal presence for Carrick. Amorim’s reign was a direct contrast as he reportedly sent players home after games without even speaking to them.

This was in order to let emotions fade before speaking and making snap decisions. He would then address the squad the day after to get his point across. Now, Carrick and his staff will address the team while post-match emotions are still raw.

Later matchday arrivals

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Amorim was strict on early arrival times ahead of fixtures at Old Trafford. Now, Carrick is ensuring his players turn up slightly later to freshen things up.

For his opening Premier League win against City, the team bus arrived around 15 minutes later than normal. This was intentional as it stopped the squad from hanging around in the stadium awaiting kick-off and ensured fans were there to give them a raucous arrival.

Shorter, high-intensity training sessions

While Amorim was in charge, training sessions were long and low-intensity, with a greater focus on the tactical side of the game. In contrast, Carrick has shortened the practice days but significantly increased the intensity of the drills.

It is said that this change was made to ensure players understood that they had to be at their very best every day. Reports claim that sessions under Carrick are much more energetic and have higher morale.

Uplifting assistant coaches

While the Portuguese boss was at Old Trafford, he reportedly prevented his coaching staff from giving players instructions. Now, the new manager has allowed for a different way for tactical guidance to be given, leaning more on his assistants.

Steve Holland and Jonathan Woodgate are at the heart of this action and give more of a hands-on approach in training. United stars are impressed by this and enjoy the new strategy.

Scrapping 3-4-3 formation

Under Amorim, the 3-4-3 formation was followed to a strict manner by players and he refused to be moved from his philosophy – even when the team at his disposal was better suited to another system.

As a result, some players were dropped to the bench, including academy star Kobbie Mainoo. A key part of Carrick’s success at United was manoeuvring to a 4-2-3-1 structure and bringing fan favourite Mainoo back into the fold.

This utilises fast wing play and focuses more on balanced defending and attacking, leading to greater success on the pitch.

Ending global tour tradition

This year, United will head out on a pre-season tour that is much closer to home. In recent seasons, the club have opted for more long-haul trips to the United States, Australia and Asia.

But now, with thanks to the World Cup across the Atlantic, Carrick has broken a 25-year tradition by basing the pre-season games across Europe instead. United will play in Norway, Finland, Ireland and Sweden, facing the likes of PSG, Leeds, Atletico Madrid, Rosenborg and Wrexham.

In comparison, the club travelled to the USA throughout July and August last year and played Leeds, Fiorentina, Everton, Bournemouth and West Ham.

Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package

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Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.

Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.

A frequent flyer has shared a 30p WHSmith airport hack that could help you save money on baggage fees by sneaking extra toiletries into your hand luggage — but try it with caution

Travelling with only hand luggage can prove challenging for many travellers, particularly when staying away for a week. There’s packing all your evening outfits, not to mention all the swimwear and toiletries.

Nobody wants to arrive at the airport only to be informed their bag exceeds the size limit and face additional charges due to inadequate packing. While it appears airlines are constantly adjusting their hand luggage requirements to catch passengers out, one seasoned traveller has discovered a workaround that costs merely 30p. Siani, who shares content on TikTok as @sianitravels, revealed a method for squeezing extra toiletries into your luggage when travelling, eliminating concerns about abandoning your premium moisturiser or preferred shampoo and conditioner set.

She created a video responding to another comment which said: “What was the hack for fitting the toiletries?”

Siani outlined: “So anything you couldn’t fit in your hand luggage, you should put in a spare bag. Once you get through security, go to any duty-free store.”

She mentioned her preference for WHSmith, as their carrier bags accommodate a considerable amount of items, alleviating any stress.

“Then I unload my extra bag, and I put all those bits and bobs into this new duty-free bag, because the hack is that you’re allowed one duty-free bag with your carry-on luggage,” Siani detailed.

She explained she folds her additional bag, places it inside the WHSmith carrier, and she’s all set.

“Bish, bash, bosh,” she quipped.

One person highlighted: “Yeah, it’s for duty-free items bought in the airport… so if the stuff is obviously not just purchased, they can still charge you.”

That said, when did anyone last request to inspect your duty-free carrier to verify everything was genuinely bought at the airport?

It’s improbable, though still a gamble if you’re attempting to avoid paying extra.

“I thought the duty-free bag was supposed to be security sealed?” one woman queried, though someone clarified that’s only applicable when purchasing alcohol at the airport because passengers aren’t permitted to consume their own duty-free on board.

An airport employee commented: “Hey, so I work at the airport. If you have too many bags, even from duty-free, they can deny you boarding unless you leave your duty-free shopping behind if there’s no space in the overhead bins. I’ve seen it happen a few times.”

“I have been made to put my purchases in my hand luggage twice before; now I don’t risk it,” another woman revealed.

Therefore, it’s certainly advisable to attempt this trick cautiously, though it proved successful for Siani!

Would you consider trying this to transport more belongings on board without additional cost? Share your thoughts in the comments…