Wayne Rooney is a man of his word.

Turn the clock back to the last 16 of the World Cup, when the former England striker pledged to row down the River Mersey if Norway beat Brazil.

Norway did exactly that, beating the five-time champions 2-1, so BBC Sport pundit Rooney confirmed live on air that he would take on the challenge in the US.

He and fellow pundits Joe Hart and Micah Richards swapped their microphones for oars and took to the Hudson River in New York.

“I loved it,” Rooney said. “The fans were brilliant. So we’ve done it out of respect for the fans.”

Norway fans’ viking row became a sensation at the World Cup, and even Norway striker Erling Haaland was keen to see Rooney in action.

“Wayne, I expect you to go out on a rowing trip,” he said.

Norway were knocked out by England in the quarter-finals.

Rooney, Hart and Richards will be back on dry land alongside Gabby Logan for Sunday’s World Cup final (20:00 BST), which will be available to watch live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

England play France in the World Cup third-place match on Saturday at 22:00, also live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Small boat crossings to the UK have almost halved while the irregular crossings to Europe are down almost 40 per cent so far this year, The Independent can reveal.

Analysis of Home Office data shows 12,214 people have arrived in the UK on small boats by 9 July this year – down 42 per cent from 2025, when 21,117 people had made the perilous journey across the English Channel in the same period.

While migration experts are clear that numbers are falling, it is hard to know definitively why this is.

EU border officials have pointed to partnerships in north Africa stemming the number of onward journeys, but experts caution that these pacts come with a deadly cost.

Nearly 1,300 people have lost their lives in the Mediterranean so far this year, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

Here, The Independent examines how many people are travelling on migration routes into Europe, and onwards to the UK, and why this might be.

How many people are arriving on small boats to the UK?

At the end of June this year, 11,884 migrants had arrived on dinghies – down 41 per cent on the same period in 2025 – a particularly high year for crossings, second only to a record-breaking 2022 – and down 12 per cent on 2024.

Labour has tried to bring the numbers down by paying more money to French police enforcement to stop migrants from leaving their shores and sending small boat migrants back to France in exchange for asylum seekers.

But the “one in, one out” scheme, which began in August 2025, has only removed a comparatively small number of migrants, with 1,087 people sent back to France as of the end of June. There have been reports that the French are looking to end the programme in October this year, to focus on a European-wide strategy of tackling irregular migration.

Why are the number of UK small boat migrants falling?

Dr Mihnea Cuibus, senior researcher at the University of Oxford’s Migration Observatory, said it was hard to identify any one policy change, or factor, as contributing to the fall in crossings.

He said: “Arrivals are down throughout Europe. They were also significantly down last year, which is significant because you would expect a bit of a lag as people travel through Europe to the UK. The decline we saw last year could finally be feeding through into arrivals in the UK.

“The other thing is change in policies, with the new deal with France, and the one in, one out scheme. The share of those who have been removed to France has remained very low, so we wouldn’t expect that to make a massive difference.

“It is likely that there seems to be a bit of an effect [from the different policy changes], but there are other factors such as arrivals into the EU.”

In 2026 so far, 187 boats have arrived in the UK, compared to 362 boats in the same period last year. The size of dinghies has increased significantly as smugglers adapt to increased police activity on French beaches. Larger boats now ‘taxi’ around the coast of France and wait to pick up people offshore. In an indication of how big the small boats are now getting, a record 128 migrants arrived in one dinghy this week.

The previous record was 125 in September 2025. In total 41,472 people arrived in 672 boats last year, compared to 36,816 people in 695 boats in 2024.

However, the dip in arrivals in the first half of 2026 compared to 2025 may be due to when the bulk of people arrived last year. In 2025, arrivals were spread out throughout the year, starting with 4,568 people in March and continuing through the summer, with more than 5,000 people arriving in September. In 2024 and 2023 however, more people arrived later in the year, with 5,417 people crossing in October 2024.

This shows that while the arrivals are tracking down this year so far, more could still make the journey in the second half of 2026.

Dr Cuibus cautioned: “We do see these numbers move up and down, at times quite randomly over the past five or six years. We still don’t understand why 2025 was so big, just as we don’t understand quite why there was a surge in people in 2022 – particularly in Albanians.”

He added: “If this trend continues until the end of summer, that will be very interesting. We are in a bit of a waiting pattern until we’ve seen the summer through.”

Where are small boat migrants coming from?

Eritrea was the top country of origin for arrivals last year, with more than twice as many than in 2024. Many leave to escape national service, which is compulsory for all citizens aged 18 to 40 and there is a near-total suppression of civil or religious freedoms in the country.

The number of people coming from Afghanistan, which was the top country of origin in 2023 and 2024, declined to second in 2025 after a peak in 2022, the year after the Taliban takeover – with 8,319 people arriving via small boats.

Figures for the first three months of 2026 show that the Eritrean numbers are being sustained, with 743 citizens making the crossing compared to 735 Sudanese and 598 Afghans.

The number of Syrian, Iraqi and Vietnamese nationals also fell in 2025, while those from Sudan, Somalia and Ethiopia all increased.

The numbers of Somalians making the Channel crossing surged from 697 in 2024 to 3,783 in 2025. The steep rise comes after the jihadist group Al-Shabaab made major advances last year in its battle against the Somali government.

In Sudan, where the second highest number of small boat migrants now come from, the country has been experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis after three years of civil war. Over 14 million people have been displaced and two-thirds of the population – 33.7 million people – are in need of humanitarian support, according to the International Rescue Committee.

Judith Sunderland, from Human Rights Watch (HRW), said: “We’ve seen a massive outflow of people from Sudan, many who are stuck in Libya. We’ve already seen an increase in Sudanese on boats to Europe and there could be a really significant increase if various factors align.”

Explaining migration flows more broadly, she added: “There are a lot of people on the move because they are trying to improve their situation and the lives of their family. So long as there is bad governance and poverty, people will try to get someone where they think they can have a better chance.”

Dr Cuibus explained that Syrians and Afghans are now less likely to be granted asylum in Europe than they were in previous years and said this could be contributing to the reduced numbers arriving.

Irregular border crossings into Europe are also down

Irregular crossings into Europe are down almost 40 per cent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the year before, data from border agency Frontex shows.

Nearly 39,000 crossings were recorded in the months January to June – a decline attributed to co-operation between the EU and Africa to increase police enforcement at departure points. The Western African route saw the steepest decline, with detections down by 71 per cent on the year before.

The number of people arriving in Italy from north Africa across the central Mediterranean route, usually the busiest crossing, is also down 52 per cent year-on-year, with 14,340 people making the journey so far in 2026.

Why are small boat crossings to Europe falling?

Judith Sunderland, senior associate director at HRW, said the EU drive to stop people making the journey to Europe “carries with it enormous risks and suffering”. She explained “people are essentially trapped in various locations in their migration journeys”, such as migrants who get sent back to Libyan detention camps when they are picked up trying to cross the Mediterranean.

“Focusing on the numbers hides the suffering that is behind this. It is based on a lot of extremely dubious deals that the EU and individual member states have pursued and support for security forces in places like Libya, Tunisia, Mauritania and elsewhere,” she added.

Giorgia Meloni’s government in Italy, backed by the European Union, is funding, equipping and training both the Libyan and Tunisian coast guards to intercept people on their way to Europe.

Human rights organisations have this week called for the EU to stop funding Tunisia over its security forces “reckless and violent conduct” during interceptions at sea.

According to the charity Statewatch, the EU is also looking to team up with Libya’s eastern forces to stem the number of people launching boats from its shores.

Ms Sunderland explained that there are lots of factors that would influence the numbers getting on boats, such as the weather, smuggling dynamics, and the work of border forces.

“The numbers have decreased recently compared to the past several years, but they are still higher than they were six or seven years ago,” she explained.

She said that, those who remain stuck in third-party countries such as in detention in Libya, will not give up their determination to move on. “They will keep trying. Very few turn back. And people smuggling networks adapt and change.”

Dr Cuibus added: “The view is that all of these deals, with Libya, Tunisia, more co-operation with Morocco, these things together do seem to have an effect, because at the end of the day it is about physical prevention. Experience kind of reveals that physical enforcement can stop the boats, if you stop people leaving countries from transit, or at least temporarily divert them to other routes. But there are also broader factors at play, like the changes in the home countries’ situation.”

A spokesperson for the IOM told The Independent: “While the number of irregular arrivals to Europe has declined in 2026, the situation continues to demand urgent attention because too many people are still risking – and losing – their lives on dangerous migration routes.

“The Central Mediterranean continues to be the world’s deadliest migration route… equally concerning is the growing number of migrants who disappear without trace, with increase evidence of so-called ‘invisible shipwrecks’ where vessels are lost and their fate remains unknown.”

North Yorkshire Police is appealing for information after a TAG Heuer watch was stolen in the night from Scarborough.

The theft took place sometime between 10pm on Monday, July 6, and 4am on Tuesday, July 7, near the Crescent Hotel in Belvoir Terrace.

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“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the theft and identify those responsible, and relevant CCTV enquires have been conducted in the area,” said a spokesperson for the force.

They asked that members of the public to remain vigilant for the watch being offered for sale online, through social media marketplaces, local selling groups, pawn shops, jewellers, or at car boot sales.

If you have any information that can help the investigation, please contact PC 319 @ nabiel.galab@northyorkshire.police.uk, use the website or live chat, or call 101.

Please quote reference 12260131191 when providing information.

Kylian Mbappe left a comment on Marcus Rashford’s World Cup post

Marcus Rashford has one more international match to go before his summer break and a potential return to Manchester United. In this clash, he will meet old rival Kylian Mbappe – who previously sent him a heartfelt message after sending him home from the World Cup 2022.

Rashford’s England were left heartbroken once again this year as Argentina made an incredible comeback to beat them 2-1 and advance to the final. France were also dumped out of the World Cup after Spain won 2-0 to set up a Europe vs South America finale.

The United forward played a part of the Three Lions’ run to the semi-final, scoring his only goal in a 4-2 win over Croatia in the group stage. Rashford made the starting XI twice and racked up 177 minutes during England’s trip across the Atlantic.

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Now, he will face Mbappe in a third-place play-off, in what is a rematch of the 2022 quarter-final clash in Qatar. Four years ago, France beat England 2-1 and reached the final before Lionel Messi’s Argentina ended their back-to-back World Cup dreams.

Rashford posted a heartfelt message to his followers as he said: “The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, each and every one of our team gave everything we had to be ready for what was thrown at us, we got close, but not close enough.

“I’ll make a promise that we will come again! Thank you for the unconditional support we have received throughout the tournament, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

Mbappe left a love-heart emoji on the post, displaying his respect towards Rashford. The United forward then replied: “Good luck with the rest of the tournament brother! Go smash it king.”

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At the time Rashford had been flying for United, making 42 goal contributions in a successful 2022/23 season. Things would change dramatically before the next World Cup, as the academy hero would go out on loan to Aston Villa and Barcelona due to a bitter fall-out with manager Ruben Amorim.

During his time in Spain, Rashford faced Mbappe twice more in El Clasico. The pair earned one win each, with the Real Madrid star winning 2-1 in La Liga back in October.

Rashford would get the last laugh as he beat Mbappe in the Supercopa final, winning 3-2 and lifting the trophy. Barcelona would also go on to win the league title, cruising to an eight-point lead over their rivals.

For the time being, Rashford is heading back to United having been waiting to sort out his future until after the World Cup has concluded. But first, he will reunite with a familiar opponent as France battle England for third place on Saturday night.

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Ammunition Technical Officers attended the scene

A viable pipe bomb was found following a security alert in Co Derry on Friday.

The Foreglen Road in Dungiven was closed shortly before midday on Friday, July 17, due to a security alert in the area with Ammunition Technical Officers attending the scene.

Following searches a suspected pipe bomb was found with a controlled explosion being carried out after it was deemed to be a viable device.

PSNI North Area Engagement Chief Inspector Mullan said: “A suspected pipe bomb was located earlier today, Friday 17 ^th July.

“Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) attended the scene. They carried out a controlled explosion, and later deemed the device to be viable.

“The remnants of the item have now been taken away for forensic examination. “We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation as searches in the area were carried out overnight and into this morning. Closing roads causes disruption and inconvenience but, ultimately, public safety is our priority.

“Our enquiries remain ongoing and anyone with information which could assist with our investigation is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 304 17/07/26.

“A report can also be submitted online at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/ “

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Two men found out they’d been switched at birth when one took a chance DNA test after grabbing a kit during a Christmas gift swap.

Kyle Bylin and Jeremy Morrison are now suing the Unity Medical Center in Grafton, North Dakota, saying they have been robbed of the lives they were supposed to lead.

They were the only two babies born there on January 26, 1988.

But somehow they each went home with the wrong parents.

Kyle, born Jeremy Morrison, still has the hospital bracelet misidentifying him as Kyle Bylin.

The mix-up was discovered two years ago when he took an at-home DNA test.

It led him to his biological aunt on a genealogy platform.

When her nephew, Jeremy, then had his DNA tested the truth was confirmed.

‘That’s when my mind was just completely blown,’ Kyle said.

‘We could have never imagined that it was an actual birth switch that occurred.’

Jeremy said he was convinced as soon as he saw a photo of Kyle’s brother and spotted the close similarities in their looks.

Evelyn Newton, who raised Kyle as her own, told The Associated Press: ‘Kyle is still my son — that is never going to change.

‘But I feel robbed of the life I should have had with my biological son.

‘You can’t go back and replace 35 years. First steps, driving a car, getting married — how do you make up for that?’

The hospital does not dispute the two babies were switched at some point.

It says it’s working to better understand what happened but has uncovered no evidence that its administration or staff were responsible for the lives-altering error.

‘We recognize the profound impact this discovery has had on them and their families,’ Unity Medical said in a statement.

‘Unfortunately, because of the passage of nearly four decades, the medical and staffing records that might have provided additional clarity no longer exist, and no members of the delivery team from that time are still employed by the hospital.’

The knowledge hasn’t changed the way Jeremy feels about the family he’s always known.

He still thinks of the parents he grew up with — Elizabeth O’Toole and Terry Morrison — as his parents.

And aside from some challenging times — like wishing he had a sibling to lean on when they divorced when he was seven — he says his childhood was fine.

‘I was loved. I played sports. I did well in school,’ Jeremy said. ‘A DNA test is not going to take away 38 years of memories.’

He now lives in Colorado City, Colorado, and works as a welding inspector for a wind energy company.

Had he not been switched at birth, he figures he’d still be with his biological brother and father, working on the North Dakota grain farm where Kyle grew up.

Ms Newton said she never had any thought that Kyle might not be their biological son as she and her then-husband, Keith Bylin, were raising him.

True, the immediate family had light hair and Kyle’s was dark.

But her husband had relatives with dark hair, and Ms Newton herself was adopted, so she didn’t know what her own blood relatives looked like.

For Kyle, questions about nature versus nurture have become more personal.

As he pursued an academic career far from North Dakota, he figured the political debates over Thanksgiving dinner were just a staple of American family life.

‘You’re just kind of shaking your fist, like, how can this be my family? How am I so different from them?’ Kyle said.

‘It turns out that we’re just totally different people, period.’

Kyle and Jeremy have now met their biological parents — the encounters were welcoming but awkward, they said.

They have yet to meet each other, but have spoken on the phone.

‘We’ve tried to unite as a group and just recognize that no matter what, there’s different ways that this can be socially messy,’ Kyle said.

‘Everyone’s getting to know people that they didn’t know before.’

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

For more stories like this, check our news page.

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The National Trust is warning that the popular coastal spot is not a traditional seaside destination.

The conservation charity says visitor numbers soar during warm weather, leading to long traffic queues, full car parks and parking restrictions in nearby residential streets.

Rare male sand lizard (Image: National Trust)

Just over an hour’s drive from Bolton, Formby is one of the North West’s most popular beaches.

But unlike resorts such as Blackpool or Southport, the beach sits within a protected conservation area with limited facilities and no parking directly next to the sand.

Amy Peacock, operations manager for National Trust places in the Liverpool City Region, said: “Formby is a wild, natural and legally protected conservation area. This means the parking and facilities we can offer here are limited.

“We have two relatively small car parks that fill up very quickly on busy days. They’re tucked away inland away from where the dunes will continue to roll back naturally over time.

“It’s worth noting that reaching the beach involves walking through the woodlands and over the dunes, which can feel a bit of an adventure, especially for little legs and when carrying all the usual seaside essentials.

“For people seeking a traditional seaside experience with quick access and a wide range of amenities, we recommend considering alternative beaches along the North West coast that offer more comfort and convenience.”

Rare dune northern tiger beetle (Image: National Trust)

The National Trust is also reminding visitors not to light fires or barbecues anywhere on site because of the risk of wildfires, and to take all litter home to protect wildlife and prevent rubbish from being washed into the sea.

Formby forms part of the Sefton Coast, one of the largest sand dune systems in England and a legally protected Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Its constantly shifting dunes provide a habitat for rare wildlife, including natterjack toads, sand lizards and northern dune tiger beetles.

The National Trust says visitors should be aware that there are only two relatively small car parks, both located inland.

The former Victoria Road car park next to the beach has permanently closed as part of a major sand dune restoration project.

Anyone visiting should also be prepared for a walk through woodland and over the dunes before reaching the beach, which can be challenging when carrying picnic equipment, pushchairs or other beach essentials.

The National Trust is also reminding visitors not to light fires or barbecues anywhere on site because of the risk of wildfires, and to take all litter home to protect wildlife and prevent rubbish from being washed into the sea.

Justin Matthews, lead ranger for National Trust places in the Liverpool City Region, said: “Beyond the parasols and sandcastles, you’ll find a place that’s home to one of Europe’s most important sand dune habitats where lots of rare wildlife lives.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy this special place, now and in the future, and by planning ahead and being mindful of Formby’s wonderful wildlife, people can play an important part in helping us to protect it.”

Gregor Townsend has made 14 changes to his starting side as they take on the Flying Fijians at Murrayfield

Scotland close their summer Nations Championship campaign with a showdown with Fiji at Murrayfield, with head coach Gregor Townsend naming an almost entirely changed starting side.

With 14 changes made, Gregor Brown is the only the survivor from last weekend’s defeat to South Africa as he shifts from lock to number eight. Darcy Graham returns to the side, with Stafford McDowall named as captain and first starts handed to hooker Gregor Hiddleston and flanker Freddy Douglas.

Scotland’s 42-28 defeat to the Springboks followed an impressive seven-try victory over Argentina in Cordoba, while Fiji are yet to record a Nations Championship win, with their defeat to Wales in Cardiff earlier this month followed by a bruising 73-8 defeat to England last weekend.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of today’s game.

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What time is Fiji v Scotland?

Fiji v Scotland kicks off at 2.10pm on Saturday, July 18, with the match being held at Murrayfield.

What channel is Fiji v Scotland on?

The game is being shown live and for free on ITV1.

Coverage starts at 1.10pm.

What about live streaming?

You can stream the match via ITV’s app, ITVX.

You will need a valid TV licence and an account to watch.

Fiji v Scotland line-ups

Fiji: 15 Isaiah Armstrong Ravula, 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 13 Virimi Vakatawa, 12 Josua Tuisova, 11 Jiuta Waniqolo, 10 Caleb Muntz, 9 Frank Lomani, 8 Elia Canakaivata, 7 Lekima Tagitagivalu, 6 Pita Gus Sowakula, 5 Temo Mayanavanua, 4 Isoa Nasilasila, 3 Mesake Doge, 2 Tevita Ikanavere (c), 1 Eroni Mawi.

Replacements: 16 Sam Matavesi, 17 Livai Natave, 18 Peni Ravai, 19 Mesake Vocevoce, 20 Kitione Salawa, 21 Sam Wye, 22 Isikeli Rabitu, 23 Salesi Rayasi.

Scotland: 15 Tom Jordan, 14 Darcy Graham, 13 Ollie Smith, 12 Stafford McDowall (c), 11 Duhan van der Merwe, 10 Fergus Burke, 9 George Horne; 1 Rory Sutherland, 2 Gregor Hiddleston, 3 D’Arcy Rae, 4 Jonny Gray, 5 Max Williamson, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Freddy Douglas, 8 Gregor Brown

Replacements: 16 Seb Stephen, 17 Pierre Schoeman, 18 Zander Fagerson, 19 Scott Cummings, 20 Magnus Bradbury, 21 Liam McConnell, 22 Jamie Dobie, 23 Sione Tuipulotu

Fiji v Scotland officials

Referee: Matthew Carley (RFU)

Assistant Referee 1: Eoghan Cross (IRFU)

Assistant Referee 2: Anthony Woodhouse (IRFU)

TMO: Ben Whitehouse (FFR)

FPRO: Andrew Jackson (IRFU)

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A primary school has apologised to parents after OnlyFans was listed amongst acceptable social media accounts for staff.

Delph Side Primary School in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, wrote in one of their policies the platform, which features sexual acts and pornography, was a ‘primary form of communication between friends and family’.

This meant it would be ‘unreasonable’ not to allow staff to use it.

The policy reads: ‘The use of social networking/media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and Only Fans has over recent years become the primary form of communication between friends and family.

‘It would not be reasonable to expect or instruct employees not to use these sites which, if used with caution, should have no impact whatsoever on their role in school.’

Headteacher Liz Ormerod said the platform has now been removed from their policy, and at the time it was put on did not reflect OnlyFans current reputation where users can pay accounts for explicit images and videos, The Echo reports.

Ms Ormerod said: ‘Although the school’s social media policy was last updated in 2025, this section had not been updated since 2022, and the reference does not mean the school endorses or approves use of the platform by staff.

‘The wording is out of date and does not reflect the platform’s current association with adult content.’

‘All staff are expected to maintain the highest professional standards at all times and are subject to strict safeguarding and conduct requirements.

‘We apologise for any concern this may have caused.’

Metro has contacted Delph Side Primary School for comment.

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

For more stories like this, check our news page.

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An emotional Vanessa Feltz hosted her last Channel 5 daytime show on Friday. 

It was revealed last month that bosses ‘blindsided’ the presenter when they made the decision to axe her chat show after just one year on air.

A determined Vanessa, 64, told viewers she ‘is not going to hide under a rock’ and will be launching a new show on YouTube, At Home With Vanessa. 

The presenter said it will be filmed at her home, ‘Feltz Tower’ as she added: ‘I hope it’s going to be really great fun’.

It comes as sources close to the star revealed Vanessa is not coping well. 

They told the Daily Mail: ‘She was crying all morning before the show and didn’t think she would get through it. It’s been horrific for her. She’s not coping well at all.’

Vanessa herself said that she was ‘weeping in the car last night thinking, “oh God, tomorrow is my last show”.’

She added: ‘I feel very, very sad this is the last show. To anybody who is sending me nice messages, I really appreciate it.’ 

Vanessa had guests Danniella Westbrook, Cosmo Landesman and Lizzie Cundy on Friday’s show. 

Lizzie, who was also on the presenter’s first show, told her: ‘Vanessa it’s been such an honour working with you. We’ve all loved you, I’m so proud of you.’

The presenter became teary-eyed after Jeremy Vine sent in a personalised message. 

He said: ‘You’re amazing. We’re going to miss you in the afternoons, your company. You bring the sunshine, I hope you enjoy your last show. Lots of love, dear Vanessa.’

Fans wrote on X: ‘Vanessa Feltz has been my rock’, and ‘Oh Vanessa Feltz on 5’s final show is so emotional.. until we meet again’.  

Vanessa was also presented with flowers at the end of the show from her daughter Saskia and grandson AJ.  

Sources close to the show say Vanessa was left furious and stormed out of the studios in tears following the tense discussion to axe the show.

It was revealed last month that bosses had made the decision to axe her chat show after just one year on air

Vanessa was joined on the show by Lizzie Cundy, (left) and Danniella Westbrook, (right)

Lizzie and Danniella were seen making a stylish exit after their appearance on the show

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Lizzie turned heads in a pink midi dress

Danniella stunned in a white blazer and trousers 

She said: ‘It was a bit of a shock. It was meant to be a delightful year’s contract, the show was going really well…

‘I was shocked to the core and very upset and I still am. It was only Wednesday at 3 o’clock that I found out.

‘It apparently comes from Paramount, who bought Channel 5.

‘They want to show Paramount movies every afternoon at two. It doesn’t cost them any money because they already own them. I don’t think I really came into the equation at all.’

An insider told the Daily Mail at the time: ‘Vanessa was brought into a meeting after her show came off air this week.

‘She had no idea what the meeting was about and certainly didn’t expect to be told it was not being renewed.

‘She feels so blindsided but also let down by bosses.’

Her show, which aired on Channel 5 weekdays at 2pm for an hour, has been consistently targeted by scam callers during their phone-ins for months now.

The Daily Mail understands extremely low ratings for the programme are to blame for the cancellation, but also not being able to get a grip on nuisance calls.

Our insider continued: ‘Producers tried their best to crack down on the calls by limiting just landline users to phone in, but that was decided to be too restrictive given today’s technology and accessibility.

‘Vanessa has given her all to the show, she left a very good role on This Morning which is already long established for this gig.

‘She is truly devastated, but also for her team too, many of whom will now need to find new jobs.’