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Why I’ve been going back to the same UK seaside town for 17 years

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Why I’ve been going back to the same UK seaside town for 17 years
It’s often hailed as one of the UK’s best coastal towns (Picture: Nick Beer/Getty Images)

I love the beach. It’s my happy place. And there’s one spot that’s become my go-to when I need to escape London and be by the sea.

Aldeburgh in Suffolk regularly tops lists of the UK’s best seaside towns, and it truly deserves its flowers. 

It’s small, with an estimated population of just 2,348, and just a handful of shops on the high street. But it’s got everything you could need for a charming coastal getaway. 

I would know; I’ve been going there at least once a year for almost two decades.

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The first time I went to Aldeburgh was on the eve of my 15th birthday. 

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I’m now 32, and honestly, it hasn’t changed all that much in the last 17 years. That’s a good thing. 

Courtney Pochin enjoying a drink at The Suffolk's rooftop terrace in Aldeburgh
Aldeburgh reels you in, hook, line and sinker, writes Courtney Pochin (Picture: Courtney Pochin)

I love seeing the same businesses thriving each time I visit, from the Aldeburgh Cinema to The Golden Galleon fish & chip shop.

There’s a gorgeous independent bookshop (with tote bags to rival Daunt’s), several charity shops, a couple of art galleries, an excellent deli and, of course, an ice cream parlour.

The food scene is exceptional. The Suffolk’s seafood restaurant has been featured in the Michelin Guide, the Thai Street Kitchen takeaway slots fill up faster than you can say Pad Thai on a Friday night, and Sea Spice is serving up dishes on par with some of London’s finest curry houses.

The star of the show, though, is the beach itself.

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Coloured houses and buildings by the beach in Aldeburgh
The town is full of charming, colourful buildings (Picture: David Calvert/Shutterstock)

It’s a pebble beach, which means you’ll probably want to keep your shoes on instead of going barefoot, but otherwise, it’s pretty perfect.

Colourful houses line the seafront in pastel shades of pink, yellow, and blue, wooden fishing boats sit on the shingle, and the North Sea sparkles gloriously in the sunshine. 

If you get up before 9am, you’ll catch locals heading down for a dip, wearing dressing gowns and water shoes. Some swim in the bracing water, others merely float for a few minutes to wake themselves up.

Whenever I’m in town, I like to set an early alarm and take a cup of tea down to the sea.

First thing in the morning, the beach is gloriously empty, save for a few swimmers, so you feel you have the entire place to yourself.

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Covered in shingle and wildflowers, the beach is a great place to relax (Picture: TravellingLight/Getty Images)

There are plenty of walking trails, too, including a two-mile stretch of coast you can follow to the village of Thorpeness.

This will take you past the Scallop, a massive shell-shaped sculpture made from steel, that serves as a memorial to the composer, Sir Benjamin Britten, who lived in The Red House in Aldeburgh.

Walk in the opposite direction and you’ll find Slaughden, a hamlet just south of the town centre. It’s marshland, home to England’s largest Martello Tower, and Slaughden Sailing Club.

There’s a footpath you can take through the salt marshes, with the estuary waters of the River Alde on one side, and fields full of cows on the other. 

The area is home to several nature reserves, including Snape Marshes and RSPB Minsmere, if you want to venture further. 

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A walk along the marshland near Aldeburgh
The area is also home to pretty marshland trails (Picture: Courtney Pochin)

I can’t say I ever do any strenuous hikes when I visit, though. Aldeburgh is for relaxing, and it’s truly a glorious place to kick back.

I breathe in the sea air, eat more than my share of great food, enjoy a drink at the pub or a bottle of wine from the Adnams store, and I read. 

A long weekend is an ideal amount of time, but you might find yourself wanting to stay longer. Aldeburgh has a way of reeling you in.

The town has captured my heart, hook, line, and sinker, and I’m already counting the days until I return.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk

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The difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke explained

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The difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke explained

With temperatures forecast to climb to 36°C in parts of the UK, heat health alerts are once again in place – and for many people it will mean more than an uncomfortable few days.

The human body normally keeps its core temperature at around 37°C, and when the air around us heats up, it has to work harder to hold that line. Heat stress occurs when the body gains heat faster than it can lose it.

Its main defence is sweating and sending more blood to the skin, where the heat can be released into the environment, but that system has limits. When the heat becomes too much, or hot, humid air stops sweat evaporating, or dehydration leaves too little fluid for the body to sweat and circulate blood properly, these cooling mechanisms start to fail. That’s what leads to heat exhaustion and, in more serious cases, heatstroke.

The two conditions are often used interchangeably, but the difference between them matters. Knowing which one you’re looking at could save a life.

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Some are more vulnerable

Anyone can develop heat-related illness, but some people are far more exposed to the risk than others.

Older adults and young children are less efficient at regulating their body temperature, and that vulnerability can be compounded by underlying health: heart, kidney and respiratory disease all reduce the body’s ability to cope with heat, as can medications that affect sweating, hydration or blood flow.

Enclosed spaces such as parked cars and poorly ventilated rooms can heat up rapidly, causing body temperature to rise quickly, particularly in children, older adults and people with underlying health conditions.

People who work or exercise outdoors face additional risks. Physical activity generates extra heat within the body, which, along with the burden of environmental heat and humidity, causes further rises in core temperature.

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Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is what happens when the body is struggling to cope but still just about managing to keep its core temperature below dangerous levels – you might notice heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, cramps or simply feeling wiped out.

Heat exhaustion is often accompanied by dehydration because large amounts of fluid and salts are lost through sweat.

Staying hydrated helps reduce risk, but drinking water alone is not always enough. Even a well-hydrated person can develop heat illness if temperatures are very high, humidity prevents sweat evaporating, or activity continues without adequate cooling and rest.

However, heat exhaustion does not inevitably progress to heatstroke. Most people recover fully if they are cooled down and rehydrated promptly.

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Stay hydrated.
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Heatstroke

Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system begins to fail and core temperature rises to dangerous levels, typically above 40°C. The most important difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke is the effect on the nervous system.

Heatstroke looks different: confusion, disorientation, behaving strangely, collapse, seizures – the nervous system itself starts to fail.

Heatstroke can damage the brain and other organs and can be fatal without urgent treatment. It can strike during heatwaves or during intense physical activity when the body generates more heat than it can lose.

Temperature readings can be helpful, but they should not be relied upon in isolation. Measurements taken on the skin, forehead, or in the ear may not accurately reflect true core temperature. Look at the whole picture rather than relying on a temperature measurement.

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If someone develops these symptoms, act quickly: get them somewhere cool, loosen their clothing, encourage cool fluids, and cool them down with whatever is to hand — a fan, damp towels, even a cold shower. Most people should improve within about 30 minutes.

If the person becomes confused, behaves unusually, collapses, has a seizure or loses consciousness, assume they have heatstroke and don’t delay in calling the emergency services.

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Rod Stewart health update as star, 81, has surgery and cancels tour

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Wales Online

Health problems had also forced the cancellation and postponement of shows in May and June

Sir Rod Stewart has cancelled the remainder of his 2026 US tour dates after undergoing heart surgery. The 81-year-old singer confirmed on Instagram that he will take four weeks off to recover after undergoing a coronary stent procedure, effectively cutting short the US and Mexico performances for the remainder of the year, which was due to stretch into September.

“I’m already feeling better and very much on the mend,” he said. “I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me. I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”

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He was scheduled to perform events across Ohio, Illinois and Mexico, as well as a six-night stretch at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

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His representatives said Sir Rod was “doing very well” following the procedure and had “returned to his normal daily activities”.

The statement added: “On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates.

“Information regarding affected performances will be communicated by the respective promoters and venues.”

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Two further dates in Colorado are scheduled for September 2027. The announcement came after Sir Rod postponed shows in Cincinnati and Cleveland following medical concerns.

Cleveland’s Rocket Arena earlier confirmed the cancellation on social media, writing: “Following a period of monitoring, doctors have advised Rod Stewart to rest for at least 48 hours. As a result, his performance tomorrow night, August 11, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland has been cancelled.

“Rod is disappointed to miss the show and appreciates everyone’s understanding. He looks forward to returning to the stage soon.”

Health problems had also forced the cancellation and postponement of shows in May and June. In May, the Maggie May singer sent “apologies to my family of fans” in a statement to the Las Vegas Review-Journal after cancelling performances in Nevada, adding: “I am on vocal rest as I recover from a sinus infection.”

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Less than a month later, he cancelled his San Diego show after being diagnosed with a respiratory infection that resulted in laryngitis.

Earlier this month, the rocker welcomed his sixth grandchild after his daughter Ruby gave birth to a son called Levi.

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Lawless lidos: Lifeguards pushed in the water, brawling drunk teenagers, thefts and break-ins force London’s pools to ramp up security during summer holiday heatwave

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Video footage shared with the Daily Mail shows a huge poolside brawl over the May Bank Holiday weekend at Parliament Hill Fields Lido in north London

Lidos in London have tightened security after a spate of chaotic poolside incidents – including one which saw a sunseeker smashed over the head with a bottle.

Workers at Parliament Hill Fields Lido in leafy Hampstead Heath have told how break-ins, brawls and boozing forced the spot into closure twice this summer.

It comes as Britain grapples with a record-breaking drought which has seen some areas go a staggering 59 days without a drop of rain. 

Temperatures are forecast to soar to a peak of 38C on Thursday during the sixth heatwave of this year, meaning the country’s outdoor pools could hit capacity. 

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Yet London’s lidos have spent much of the summer contending with a ‘concerning’ rise in antisocial behaviour. 

Dozens of sunseekers were filmed taking a plunge in Ruislip Lido despite warnings stating that swimming was prohibited, meanwhile organisers at Tooting Bec’s pool were forced to increase security in a bid to tackle surging attendances.  

And video footage shared with the Daily Mail this week displayed one shocking incident at north London’s Parliament Hill which left a visitor in hospital. 

A crowd of youths are seen embroiled in a huge poolside fight over the May Bank Holiday weekend as lifeguards – some of whom are later pushed into the water – desperately try to restore order. 

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Video footage shared with the Daily Mail shows a huge poolside brawl over the May Bank Holiday weekend at Parliament Hill Fields Lido in north London

The clip shows hordes of youths fighting as lifeguards desperately try to restore order

The clip shows hordes of youths fighting as lifeguards desperately try to restore order

Parliament Hill lido has been forced into closure twice this summer amid 'inappropriate behaviour' from visitors

Parliament Hill lido has been forced into closure twice this summer amid ‘inappropriate behaviour’ from visitors

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Security guards at Tooting Bec Lido in south London check customers' bags at the door - and no one can enter without a wristband

Security guards at Tooting Bec Lido in south London check customers’ bags at the door – and no one can enter without a wristband

The eye-opening incident was sparked after a swimmer was slammed over the head with a stolen wine bottle, according to witnesses who said youths had forced their way onto the site. 

A waitress at the lido’s cafe, situated just a stone’s throw from homes worth more than £1million, told the Daily Mail: ‘We have a lot of break-ins. They stole a wine bottle from us and smashed it on this guy’s head. 

‘A lot of them were really drunk and they pushed a lifeguard in. The man was bleeding across his head.’ 

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The victim was rushed to hospital before two men were arrested, but later released due to a lack of information.

Regulars, however, say that such incidents are far from uncommon at the north London lido, nestled in a quiet corner of Hampstead Heath’s sprawling 800 acres. 

When the Mail visited this week a frustrated manager told how ‘brawls break out every summer’ and knives have been found hidden in visitors’ bags. 

He added: ‘There’s something happening every summer. We’ve had knives and stuff in the past. It used to be really bad. 

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‘We’ve had issues in the cafe too. We’ve had people trying to jump over the counter because they couldn’t get booked in. 

‘In the summer it’s common for fights to break out. This is a posh area but it borders not so privileged areas. It’s mostly kids, they can’t drink in the pool but I suspect they probably do before they come. We used to have issues with people smuggling bottles in, but I don’t think so anymore.

‘If I was here with my kids (when the fight broke out), it would have been really concerning.’

In the wake of the violent incident, the City of London Corporation (COL) – the body which runs the site – was forced to impose stricter rules in a bid to ensure good behaviour. 

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They included a ban on under-16s entering without a parent, random bag searches, additional security and ID checking. Pictures this week also showed how 10-foot-high walls have been installed in a bid to deter sunseekers from climbing in. 

But just days later a fight was said to have broken out as swimmers waited for upwards of 40 minutes in lengthy queues outside. Eventually, at the end of June, the lido closed for two consecutive evenings due to ‘poor behaviour’. 

The site, situated within Hampstead Heath, has since chosen to install 10-foot-high walls to stop sunseekers climbing in

The site, situated within Hampstead Heath, has since chosen to install 10-foot-high walls to stop sunseekers climbing in

Swimmers caused havoc a few hundred yards away at Hampstead Heath's Model Boating Pond in May

Swimmers caused havoc a few hundred yards away at Hampstead Heath’s Model Boating Pond in May

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Such problems are however not consigned to Hampstead Heath’s outdoor pool. During the same period, hordes of sunseekers caused havoc at a wildlife pond situated a few hundred yards away. 

Dozens descended upon the Model Boating Pond for a dip during May’s heatwave despite the water being a ‘no swimming zone’ and safe haven for nesting birds. 

The groups ignored signs as boisterous swimmers were filmed scaring groups of ducks, throwing balls amongst each other and playing blaring music on the banks of the water. 

Furious residents described the protected habitat as a ‘party destination’ and accused swimmers of showing a lack of respect. 

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One fumed: ‘It’s absolutely terrible what they’re doing. They are violating absolutely everything it’s supposed to be and it’s so upsetting.’ 

Videos which emerged from Ruislip, west London, in May showed a packed out lido with dozens of people in the water despite the site’s red flag flying.

The flags typically mean there is no lifeguard on duty and there are hidden hazards present, such as poor water quality or toxic algae.

Yet many took the risk to take the plunge amid warnings from authorities about the danger of taking to the water without the proper assistance or supervision.

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The latest figures produced by Better, the leisure company which runs the London Fields, Charlton and Oasis swimming pools, reveal that some 524,988 visited those three sites between June and August 2025. 

That figure marked an increase of 30 per cent on the same period a year earlier, meaning the number of Londoners flocking to outdoor pools this summer will likely have increased again. 

Jem Collins, who runs the online guide All The Lidos, says antisocial behaviour is caused by casual visitors, rather than swimmers who visit lidos all year round.

She told the Mail: ‘I do think that this summer there have been more incidents than I’ve been aware of recently, and that is due to the heatwave. It got hot in May and it really hasn’t stopped.

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‘You have 500 to 1,000 people queuing outside of a pool, getting hot, and waiting to get in. That’s when tensions start to rise and things start to fizz. 

‘I think sometimes people have an expectation that they’re going to be sat by the pool with a cocktail, almost as if they’re abroad, but that’s not really what lidos are like in the UK – you wouldn’t find a poolside bar anywhere. 

‘The lido scene here is much more about the water and the swimming, and it’s open to anyone. If you want to sit in the sun and not do much swimming then that’s fine… but what it isn’t, is the boozing and the “lads, lads, lads” environment.’ 

Tooting Bec welcomes more than 3,300 per day at its busiest and boasts the country's largest outdoor pool

Tooting Bec welcomes more than 3,300 per day at its busiest and boasts the country’s largest outdoor pool

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At Tooting Bec Lido, the country’s largest outdoor pool, security levels are increased depending on the number of visitors. Bags are checked at the door and no sunseekers can enter without a wristband. 

At its busiest, the south-west London site welcomes more than 3,300 visitors per day – but incidents of antisocial behaviour are rare, according to security guards. 

One said as temperatures hit 27C on Tuesday: ‘We have more of an issue with there being too many people than customers getting aggravated. Anywhere that’s got a big capacity, there’s always going to be people that do things. 

‘If it’s busy, we have about six security guards, it changes depending on how many people are here. They run the place really well here. 

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‘You can see where it’s going though. As the UK gets hotter in somewhere like London, there’s no seaside, no water, so everybody who wants to have a beach experience goes to their local pool.

‘It’s something that I think is going to be a big problem. I think with public spaces if there’s a mass congregation of people anywhere, there’s always going to be problems. 

‘It’s like when you go to a festival, what’s the difference between that and being somewhere where there’s loads of people. You get the same kind of results.’

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said of the incident at Parliament Hill Fields Lido in May: ‘At around 16:56hrs on Monday, 25 May, officers were called to reports of an altercation at Parliament Hill Fields Lido, Camden.

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‘Officers attended the scene and located a 15-year-old boy and a man in his 40s with minor injuries.

‘A boy, aged 17 and a man, aged 25 were arrested on suspicion of affray.

‘Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD5578/25MAY, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.’

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Top of police spending priorities should be station space to lock up crooks

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Daily Record

Public faith in policing will be undermined if wrongdoers feel they can avoid a night in the cells, writes Record View.

The most basic function of the police is to keep the public safe by detecting and preventing crime. Not everyone arrested by officers needs to be temporarily locked up at a local station.

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But to keep communities safe there is a clear need to remove some criminals from the streets when they are arrested. This means having a custody suite available for use.

Speak to any off-duty, rank-and-file officer, and they’ll likely tell you that’s easier said than done. Three times last year, the cells at Greenock police station were out of action.

That meant officers were forced to make time-consuming return journeys to Clydebank or Govan, where custody suites were available.

Many members of the public will likely be surprised that Police Scotland now opens new stations with no cells at all – Ayr being one prominent example.

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The result, according to the Scottish Police Federation, is officers being discouraged from making arrests because there is no room to detain people.

Police Scotland say they are simply making use of other sanctions like fixed penalties. But opposition MSPs insist there is a problem with a lack of capacity to detain criminals in our police stations.

The situation has been exacerbated by the dozens of police stations which have been closed since the old regional constabularies were merged in 2013.

Police Scotland must take a long, hard look at its spending priorities. Top of the list should be ensuring there is space available in police stations to hold potentially violent offenders.

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Public faith in policing will be badly undermined if wrongdoers feel they can act as they please and still avoida night in the cells.

Back to school

Nicola Sturgeon famously said she wanted to be judged on education. But instead the former first minister is now using public appearances to decry anyone who has the temerity to question whether pupils are really being given the best schooling possible.

The data doesn’t lie. The attainment gap between the richest and poorest pupils remains stubbornly high.

The gold-standard Pisa report, which compares educational outcomes around the world, showed a clear decline among average pupil attainment in Scots schools between 2018 and 2022 – when Sturgeon was in charge.

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The Covid pandemic between 2020 and 2021 had a devastating impact on schools and young people in particular. But that doesn’t explain why Scotland now lags behind England in international league tables.

John Swinney and his government should be offering solutions to these problems, not resorting to excuses like Sturgeon.

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Rod Stewart cancels US tour dates after heart surgery as music legend shares health update

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Daily Record

The music legend has shared a health update on social media following a coronary stent procedure

Sir Rod Stewart has withdrawn from the remainder of his US tour dates after undergoing heart surgery.

The 81 year old rock icon took to Instagram to reveal he will be taking four weeks off to recover following a coronary stent procedure.

“I’m already feeling better and very much on the mend,” he said. “I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me.

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“I am deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”

His team confirmed Sir Rod was “doing very well” after the operation and had “returned to his normal daily activities.”.

The statement added: “On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates.

“Information regarding affected performances will be communicated by the respective promoters and venues.”

The announcement follows Sir Rod’s postponement of gigs in Cincinnati and Cleveland due to medical issues.

Cleveland’s Rocket Arena later announced the cancellation on social media, stating: “Following a period of monitoring, doctors have advised Rod Stewart to rest for at least 48 hours. As a result, his performance tomorrow night, August 11, 2026 at Rocket Arena in Cleveland has been cancelled.

“Rod is disappointed to miss the show and appreciates everyone’s understanding. He looks forward to returning to the stage soon.”

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Health concerns have also led to the postponement and cancellation of several gigs throughout May and June.

In May, the ‘Maggie May’ hitmaker issued “apologies to my family of fans” via a statement to the Las Vegas Review-Journal after scrapping Nevada dates, explaining: “I am on vocal rest as I recover from a sinus infection.”

Less than a month later, he pulled the plug on his San Diego concert following a diagnosis of a respiratory infection which developed into laryngitis.

Earlier this month, the rock icon celebrated becoming a grandfather for the sixth time as his daughter Ruby gave birth to a baby boy called Levi.

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She wanted to switch off from the world, but then she decided to make a difference

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Manchester Evening News

On Huddersfield Road, a lifeline has been created. From outside it might look like any other coffee shop, but speak to the person behind it and you soon realise it’s much more.

Inside She Remains Brave – a new community coffee shop and boutique in Newhey – staff laugh together as they brew fresh cups of coffee. Slices of cake are dished out and workers and customers put the world to rights.

For founder Becky Taylor, it’s exactly what she envisioned. Concerned people didn’t have anywhere to disconnect from phones and engage in meaningful conversations, she set about creating a space for everybody.

Click here for the latest on Manchester’s food & drink scene, gigs and more in our CityLife newsletter

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While the cafe is already proving successful, it was born out of a particularly challenging period in Becky’s life. The cafe aims to raise awareness of sexual violence, support survivors and help build a more informed and compassionate community.

Throughout her journey, which involved a serious and traumatic incident, Becky has met survivors, families and individuals who felt isolated, unheard and unsure where to turn after similar experiences. It’s something Becky can relate to. She felt compelled to make a difference in her own community.

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Her main aim when opening the doors a few weeks back was to create a welcoming space where people could connect, access information, find support and feel part of a community. It’s something she was desperate for during the last few years.

“I was heartbroken, I didn’t know what to do,” Becky recalls of her last few years. “I felt so alone and lonely, I couldn’t talk to anybody around me. I switched off from the world. But that’s when I thought ‘what can I do to make a difference?’”.

Over the last few months, with the support of family, friends and local businesses, Becky and her team of volunteers have transformed an empty shop into a thriving community space.

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Alongside coffee and light refreshments, they provide a space for local makers and small businesses to showcase their products, while also offering a welcoming environment where people can access information, support and connection.

Shelves lined with handmade cards, keychains, teddy bears and candle melts – all made and produced by local people – sit next to vital resources from organisations like Andy’s Man Club and The Maggie Oliver Foundation, giving customers, visitors and anyone needing someone to talk to an opportunity to do so.

“I wanted to know how I could give back to people that have helped, and every shelf is a different person of business and we’re supporting them, because they support us. I love what we are building here.”

Becky continues to work alongside organisations supporting survivors and families affected by sexual violence, including The Maggie Oliver Foundation, and remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for positive change.

“The safe space we have created is not just [about] trauma and sexual assault, but I’m advocating for that in the background to get laws changed,” continues Becky.

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“You could have lost someone, be going through something so terrible but as a human being when we ask ‘are you okay?’. It’s a thin question, nobody really cares, nobody talks anymore. We need to bring back communication. We’re doing that here.”

To ensure that people felt visible and able to connect, Becky has made sure the kitchen is a focal point so customers can engage directly with staff. Similarly, to ensure it’s open to all, she has kept the costs low so there’s an affordable option for everybody.

On the menu there’s a range of toasties from £3.50, plus jacket potatoes at the same price and with a number of topping options. They also serve omelettes with salad or baked beans, plus soup, sandwiches and salad bowls.

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Many pop in for a brew, cake and a good chat, so their meal deal (£3) for a hot drink and a cake is catering for that. There’s also a children’s menu, plus a selection of freshly made baked goods.

Becky has used her life savings to bring She Remains Brave to life, something that not everybody could understand when she first set out to create the space. But now, many can see how important the space is for them and the community.

“My husband said to me ‘I always felt like this place was meant to be here,’ and a lot of others have said that too. I’d never felt so lonely in my life, but here, I feel more confident now.”

While they can’t expand the food and drink options too much without the extraction fan, the landlord has bought the building, meaning they can grow She Remains Brave in the months to come. This will ensure they have more spaces for counselling sessions, community groups and any activity that will support the community.

“This is the way I’ve coped, it’s my coping mechanism. I can make a difference now.”

She Remains Brave, 5 Huddersfield Rd, Newhey, Rochdale OL16 3RU

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Man United transfer latest: Three stars put up for sale as Myles Lewis-Skelly offer made

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Manchester Evening News

Manchester United are reportedly in the market for a new left-back and could find the solution has already landed on their lap

Michael Carrick’s first full season in charge of Manchester United grows ever closer. Though there is still plenty of transfer business to be done.

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United have already bolstered their squad in several key positions this summer, welcoming Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to their midfield ranks and back-up goalkeeper Karl Darlow. Their pre-season results have also been stellar.

Carrick’s squad are unbeaten in their last three fixtures since opening the summer with a friendly defeat to Wrexham. Carrick’s side drew 1-1 against Champions League titleholders Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday after beating Atletico Madrid 2-1 and Rosenborg 5-0.

But for the new Premier League season, the club have made it no secret that left-back is a position they wish to reinforce. Arsenal could help out their top-flight rivals with this issue, as the Manchester Evening News rounds up the latest gossip emerging from Old Trafford.

Mourinho makes trio available

Jose Mourinho is reportedly willing to offload three players considered surplus to requirements at Real Madrid. United could be well placed to take advantage of one or more of those available assets.

According to Spanish daily AS, ‘The Special One’ has indicated he wants a squad of 20, plus the sidelined trio of Rodrygo, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy. However, Mendy is among those who could be moved on due to the heightened competition at left-back following Marc Cucurella’s arrival.

Mendy has no desire to depart the Bernabeu, yet his injury record has done little to instil confidence in Madrid. Former United prospect Alvaro Carreras is the other left-back option understood to be ahead of the Frenchman in the pecking order.

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Eduardo Camavinga finds himself in a comparable situation and has no wish to leave Real. United have previously been heavily linked with the midfielder and could capitalise on his versatility, given Camavinga has already demonstrated his ability both in midfield and at left-back.

The other Real name reportedly available is academy product Raul Asencio. United, however, are not currently thought to be actively pursuing reinforcements in central defence.

United have already endured considerable frustration with Luke Shaw’s persistent unavailability through injury over the years. For this reason, Camavinga may not be the only name at Real with a realistic prospect of making the move to United this summer.

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Lewis-Skelly ‘offered’ to United and Chelsea

The £75million acquisition of Bruno Guimaraes looks set to trigger a knock-on effect at the Emirates Stadium. Reports have emerged that Myles Lewis-Skelly has been offered to both United and Chelsea this week.

Despite initially showing considerable promise as a left-back, Mikel Arteta deployed Lewis-Skelly in midfield throughout last season. The 19-year-old made some vital contributions towards the latter stages of the campaign as the Gunners secured the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final.

As it stands, United have a pressing need for a new left-back as they seek a long-term replacement for Shaw. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall has been strongly touted as a candidate for that position, though the Magpies are reportedly unwilling to part with him.

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football.london first reported the Lewis-Skelly offer, with Arteta appearing settled on Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie as his left-back options. Chelsea could also pose a significant threat to any attempts to land Lewis-Skelly, given his London roots and his previous experience training at Cobham as a youngster.

The teenager would suit United’s transfer requirements given they are understood to be pursuing at least one more midfield option alongside a new left-back prospect. The England international fits both criteria, though precisely how much Arsenal would demand for Lewis-Skelly’s signature remains to be seen.

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Ohio lightning strike: 16 inmates hit outside Ohio prison

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Just before 6pm local time ambulances from Lorain, Medina and Cuyahoga counties were dispatched to the Grafton Correction Institution after lightning sttic

At least 16 inmates were struck by lightning outside a correctional facility in Ohio, authorities said.

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Just before 6pm local time ambulances from Lorain, Medina and Cuyahoga counties were dispatched to the Grafton Correction Institution.

A spokesperson for Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction said: “Initial reports indicate a lightning strike occurred this evening while incarcerated individuals were returning from the evening meal.

“At this time, 16 individuals are being transported to an outside hospital for treatment, including one individual who was life-flighted. There have been no reported deaths at this time. We are continuing to assess and monitor the situation.”

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Officials said the inmates were leaving one building and heading to another after a meal when they were struck.

All were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries although some of the patients were described as being critically hurt.

It came after Ohio was battered by powerful storms that flooded parts of the state with several feet of water killing at least one person.

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Maya Chappell’s family call on PM to end ‘turmoil’

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Maya Chappell's family call on PM to end 'turmoil'

The Northern Echo revealed last month that Dana Carr, 27, could be let out after serving less than three years of a nine-year sentence for allowing the two-and-a-half-year-old’s death, and child cruelty.

And Maya’s family have now called on the PM to “step up and make a decision for the good of families” after having to deal with the torment of potentially having to come face to face with Carr once she’s released from her jail term, maybe even as soon as in a few months.

Dana Carr (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

Mr Burnham said on Tuesday (August 11) that “I don’t want to see a single prisoner released early” as he claimed to have been “pressing every single day to go further” after saying he is “increasingly confident” the killers of PC Andrew Harper will not be released early from their sentences.

However, Maya’s great aunts, Gemma Chappell and Rachael Walls, have insisted that with every day that policies or decisions from the government change, “trust in justice and politics is eroded”.

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“We’re left in limbo every day, not knowing if Dana Carr will be released,” said Gemma.

“It’s an emotional rollercoaster, and we’re left in turmoil every day by all of this.

Maya Chappell (Image: FAMILY)

“The prison service and Ministry of Justice aren’t balancing this on a case-by-case basis; they’re trying to do a ‘one size fits all approach, and it’s not good at all.”

Gemma and Rachael have insisted that they “wholeheartedly back” the decision on PC Harper’s killers, and now want the PM to look into individual cases more carefully.

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When asked about what their message would be to PM Andy Burnham, they said: “We want him to get a grip of the situation and not flip flop on decisions.”

“The justice system is an absolute joke.

“We want Andy Burnham to sit down with us and listen to families.”

Rachael Walls (left) and Gemma Chappell (right) (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Gemma, who is a current police officer and a former prison officer, knows the challenges of prisons more than most, but says that the thought of her and her family coming face to face with Carr in the street is “unimaginable”.

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“To say that we could easily see her around Consett and the area is sickening,” said Gemma.

“And younger memebers of the family could see her as well, which is awful.”

Following Carr’s sentencing, she applied to have her jail term reduced in the Court of Appeal in April last year, but her plea was thrown out.

The Attorney General also received a request for referral for Carr’s sentence after it was called “unduly lenient” back in January 2024.

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It was considered by then Solicitor General Robert Courts MP, who decided not to refer the case to the Court of Appeal.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham (Image: Toby Shepheard/PA Wire)

Carr was jailed along with her ex, Michael Daymond, who was found guilty of Maya’s murder and child cruelty and was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 20 years behind bars.

“Monster” Daymond shook defenceless Maya in her Shotton Colliery home in September 2022, and she died at the Newcastle RVI two days after.

Back in Westminster, the PM said he had “never taken no for an answer” as he confirmed he had ordered Justice Secretary Alex Norris to draw up plans to increase the number of cells available to keep more serious offenders behind bars.

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Mr Norris had been asked to fast-track proposals to create “more headroom” in the prison system, including through deporting more foreign offenders, finding a solution for people on indeterminate sentences and using cells previously holding female inmates to accommodate male offenders.

Since last year, Maya’s family, alongside The Northern Echo, have campaigned for stronger safeguarding laws and legally required information-sharing about potential risks to children, including a new Child Risk Disclosure Scheme (CRDS).

The MoJ said that more than 18,000 offenders serving more serious sentences will not be released early and timelines for any individual early release have not been calculated yet.

Under the Sentencing Act 2026, those who previously would have been released at 40 per cent or 50 per cent of their sentence will now be eligible for release one-third of the way through their term.

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Those who would previously have been released at the two-thirds point – typically for more serious offences – will now become eligible for release at 50 per cent.

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Adam Peaty’s ‘hero worship’ of father-in-law Gordon Ramsay has led to copycat poses in a ‘desire to impress him and bond with him’, body language expert claims

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Adam Peaty's 'hero worship' of father-in-law Gordon Ramsay has led to copycat poses in a 'desire to impress him and bond with him'

He’s hailed father-in-law Gordon Ramsay as his inspiration and the man he ‘looks up to’.

And after spending a lot more time with the celebrity TV chef in recent months amid his fallout from his own family, Adam Ramsay-Peaty has picked up Gordon’s recognisable mannerisms.

‘There are moments when he is channeling his father-in-law so hard here that you could be forgiven for thinking you were watching a retro episode of Hell’s Kitchen,’ one body language expert told the Daily Mail.

In July, the athlete competed in the Commonwealth Games at Tollcross International Swimming Centre in Glasgow, where he was disappointed with his performance, as he failed to pick up a gold medal.

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All eyes were on Adam as he appeared to blame the losses on the ‘s***’ he had been through this year, seemingly alluding to the estrangement from his parents Caroline and Mark. 

‘It’s hard because I know how hard I’ve worked,’ he said in a post-race interview. ‘I know the s**t I’ve been through, which is no fault of my own. It does take a toll.’

Gordon Ramsay pictured in May 2025

Adam Peaty’s ‘hero worship’ of father-in-law Gordon Ramsay has led to copycat poses in a ‘desire to impress him and bond with him’

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It is no secret that Adam looks up to Gordon, having previously told The Sunday Times: 'He's an incredible energy to be around and an incredible person to have that guidance from'

It is no secret that Adam looks up to Gordon, having previously told The Sunday Times: ‘He’s an incredible energy to be around and an incredible person to have that guidance from’

During his interviews with the BBC, Adam, 31, included some non-verbal ‘twinning’ with Gordon, 59.

In one clip, he says he ‘wants to get lost in being a husband and father’ with his pregnant wife Holly as they prepare to welcome a baby girl – words that Gordon would approve of.

Body language expert Judi James told the Daily Mail: ‘His pose and his aura mirrored Gordon Ramsay. His chest and upper arms are posed in a way to look huge to show strength, and he folds his arms, tucking his hands into his torso in the signature style of the TV chef.

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‘There’s a very similar style of rocking side to side from one foot to the other in a Ramsay look of high-energy tinged with frustration, and the way he looks away with a frown to think and reflect before shrugging suggests a similar alpha energy.

‘Adam runs his hand through his hair and scratches the back of his head here as though puzzled by his results and the swearing, the staccato delivery with the ‘uptalk’ rise of the vocal tone as he says ‘I just think I deserved more’ was also reminiscent of Gordon’s verbal and tonal delivery.’

Judi said that Adam’s behaviour in these interviews suggests that he is aspirational in terms of seeing Ramsay as his role model.

‘Babies learn body language through mimicry, but when we mimic as adults we often admire or even hero-worship the person we’re copying,’ she said.

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‘Adam might see Ramsay as having the kind of strength and presence he admires. He might see him as a father figure, or he might have a desire to impress him and bond with him.’

after spending a lot more time with the celebrity TV chef in recent months amid his fallout from his own family, Adam has picked up Gordon's recognisable mannerisms
Gordon pictured on Hell's Kitchen

After spending a lot more time with the celebrity TV chef in recent months amid his fallout from his own family, Adam has picked up Gordon’s recognisable mannerisms

Both have shown their emotions on live TV, with Adam crying in a recent interview at the Commonwealth Games, and Gordon shedding a tear in the audience at Strictly
Both have shown their emotions on live TV

Both have shown their emotions on live TV, with Adam crying in a recent interview at the Commonwealth Games, and Gordon shedding a tear in the audience at Strictly 

Even the way Adam shows his wife, Holly Ramsay, affection in public, from a peck on the lips to rubbing her bump, was all actions Gordon did with his wife Tana
Even the way Adam shows his wife, Holly Ramsay, affection in public, from a peck on the lips to rubbing her bump, was all actions Gordon did with his wife Tana

Even the way Adam shows his wife, Holly Ramsay, affection in public, from a peck on the lips to rubbing her bump, was all actions Gordon did with his wife Tana

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The mirroring started long before the Commonwealth Games, as Adam has often been seen posing for photos, typically on a red carpet or by a swimming pool, in the same powerful stance as Ramsay.

Even the way Adam shows his wife, Holly Ramsay, affection in public, from a peck on the lips to rubbing her bump, was all actions Gordon did with his wife Tana.

It is no secret that Adam looks up to Gordon, having previously told The Sunday Times: ‘He’s an incredible energy to be around and an incredible person to have that guidance from.’

In April, he also told BBC Breakfast: ‘[He’s] very inspiring. I think for him, it’s obviously a very different way of life in terms of the business he has to do and the businesses he has to run. 

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‘I take a lot of guidance. I look up to him a lot…’ 

It is also believed that the pair bonded when Adam’s older brother Jamie was arrested over allegations he sent aggressive threats to the Olympian during his stag weekend in November.

Gordon was said to be ‘incredibly supportive’ during this time, after going through similar issues with his own brother and with Tana’s father.

Ronald Ramsay was jailed for ten months in Bali, Indonesia, in September 2007 after police found 100 milligrams of heroin in his pocket.

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Tana’s father Chris Hutcheson was sentenced to six months in prison in June 2017 after he orchestrated a plot to hack into the celebrity chef’s company computers during a family feud.

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