Perez Hilton‘s family released a statement as they spoke out for the first time since the Internet personality was hospitalized following a TikTok livestream which saw him self-harming with a knife on Tuesday night.

The following day on Wednesday, his loved ones broke their silence saying that the celebrity blogger – real name Mario Lavandeira Jr, 48 – was still being treated in hospital in the wake of the alarming incident. 

‘We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, support and prayers,’ the statement read. 

‘We can confirm that Perez is receiving medical care and our family’s focus right now is on his well-being.

‘If and when we are able to share any updates, we will do so with everyone as soon as we can.’ 

Just hours earlier harrowing surveillance video captured the moment scores of cops swarming the gossip icon’s Miami home when concerned fans alerted 911 to his alarming self-harming behavior on a TikTok livestream. 

The following day on Wednesday, his loved ones broke their silence saying that the celebrity blogger – real name Mario Lavandeira Jr, 48 – was still being treated in hospital in the wake of the alarming incident (the HCA Florida Kendall Hospital in Miami is pictured)

Four squad cars were spotted pulling up to the celebrity blogger’s ranch-style house with sirens blaring just after 7pm Tuesday after officers received multiple emergency calls about his behavior. 

The video, captured by a neighbor’s Ring doorbell camera, reveals officers then trying to coax Hilton out of the home. 

‘Mario it’s the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, please step out of the house,’ a deputy calls out as more cops arrived. 

Clips taken from the disturbing livestream video, which the Daily Mail has decided not to republish, appeared to show a blood-soaked Hilton rambling incoherently after hacking himself with a knife. 

The Ring footage reveals officers were still there at 11:11pm begging the showbiz blogger not to hurt himself. 

After arriving on the scene on Tuesday evening, officers ultimately spoke with family members and confirmed Hilton was alone inside before making the decision to ‘tactically disengage’ while monitoring the situation, the Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office told the Daily Mail.

Hilton was eventually taken to the hospital where he was surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, including his 42-year-old sister, Barbara Lavandeira. 

‘In many incidents involving a person experiencing a mental health crisis or actively harming themselves, deputies prioritize de-escalation by creating time, distance, and opportunities for communication,’ the sheriff’s office said.

Officers were dispatched to celebrity blogger Hilton’s Miami home on Tuesday after receiving reports that he was broadcasting alarming behavior on a TikTok livestream

Four squad cars were spotted pulling up to the celebrity blogger’s ranch-style house with sirens blaring just after 7pm Tuesday

A person believed to be Hilton was taken from his home and into an ambulance following the incident, in a video shared by BNO News

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Perez Hilton was believed to be at his mother’s home south of Miami  where he appears to have self harmed. He was taken to hospital in Miami overnight

 ‘Unless there is an immediate threat to others, slowing the situation and utilizing crisis intervention techniques can reduce the likelihood of a suicide-by-cop encounter and minimize the risk of injury to the individual, deputies, and the public.’

Authorities later confirmed that Hilton had ‘been safely recovered and transported by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to a local hospital, where he is receiving medical attention.’

Meanwhile, the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Crisis Response Unit and Licensed Mental Health Professionals remained at the scene ‘providing support and resources to the individual’s family.’ 

Hilton is a father to three children, who were born via surrogacy. His eldest son was born in 2013, followed by two daughters in 2015 and 2017.  

The celebrity reporter’s condition remains unclear. The Daily Mail has reached out to Hilton’s representatives for comment. 

The video has been taken down, and Hilton’s account has since been suspended by TikTok. 

Hilton’s representatives, Golden Artists Entertainment Co-CEOs Dante Rusciolelli and Rebekah Kochan, told TMZ in a statement, ‘We are aware of the concerning content circulating online involving our client, Perez Hilton.

‘At this time, we have not been able to make direct contact with him, despite our ongoing efforts to reach him. Our primary concern is Perez’s health and well-being, as well as the well-being of his family. Until we have confirmed information, we will not speculate or comment further.

‘We appreciate everyone’s concern and ask that his privacy be respected during this time.’ 

The Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Office told the Daily Mail that deputies rushed to the residence following ‘multiple’ emergency calls regarding an individual engaging in alleged self-harm on the platform 

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In a vague post on social media in April, Hilton asked for prayers 

In the meantime, celebrity friends and fans of the blogger, born Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr, have taken to social media to send him messages, begging for him to seek medical help. 

‘The Perez Hilton video is so upsetting,’ wrote Trisha Paytas. ‘I hope he’s OK. I hope his children are OK.

‘Crashing out on the internet, whether it’s fake or real – is a cry for help.’ 

Jessica Rosado, a singer and the host of Las Vegas Morning Blend, also posted a statement to her Instagram page.

‘As someone who knows Perez personally, I find myself at a loss for words,’ she wrote. ‘I know the move to Miami hasn’t been an easy one, but never could I ever have imagined something as dark and deeply disturbing as this. 

‘He is clearly in distress, and as someone who is also in media, I’m not rushing to discuss things I don’t have all the facts on,’ she continued. ‘I’m waiting to hear more from trusted sources.’

In the meantime, Rosado said her ‘love pours out to him and his entire family.’

‘Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind words and concern,’ the television host said. ‘Whether you are close with someone or not, please remember to move with empathy and approach others with the utmost care.’ 

Former politician George Santos wrote on X: ‘Please pray for Perez Hilton folks. He needs the power of prayer and the strength of our Lord and Savior.’ 

Others hit out at TikTok for allowing the disturbing video to continue for about half an hour.

‘Genuinely think TikTok should be held liable in some way for allowing that Perez Hilton feed to last 30 minutes. Absolutely insane,’ one X user wrote.

Another noted that the platform ‘allowed for many people, including children to come across a live where a man was going through a mental health crisis.’

‘Check on the people you love and please,’ the netizen urged. 

Clips taken from the video, which the Daily Mail will not publish, appeared to show Hilton covered in blood while brandishing a knife

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Celebrity friends and fans of the blogger – born Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr. – took to social media to send him messages, begging for him to seek medical help

In March, Hilton revealed that he had just emerged from a 21-day hospital stint as he battled sepsis, a result, he said, of taking flu medication on an empty stomach that triggered a cascade of health problems.

At the Southern Hills Hospital and Medical Center in Las Vegas, Hilton underwent two surgeries as he was treated for a string of medical crises.

During his recovery the following month, Hilton wrote he felt ‘like I should be scared right now, but I’m not.

‘I definitely am worried, though. God show me the way!’ he wrote on April 8. 

‘Perez Hilton is GOING THROUGH IT right now,’ the columnist continued. ‘He asks for prayers and for Christ to intervene – sooner [rather] than later.’ 

Hilton later told the Daily Mail how he found God during his recovery.

‘It was God presenting Himself to me, and then doing something that I could only describe as a miracle to heal me… I was still unwell, and then God did something,’ the gossip columnist said.

He also said that his professed exchange with the Almighty allowed him to change his mindset about his rollercoaster 22-year career. 

It comes after Hilton revealed that he had spent 21 days in hospital earlier this year after contracting sepsis. Pictured: Hilton in a hospital bed back in March

Hilton said he got sepsis after taking flu medication on an empty stomach. Pictured: Hilton in hospital back in March

Hilton had come under fire over the years for his controversial behavior – including outing gay celebrities and giving certain A-listers inappropriate nicknames. 

He admitted that he had ‘made a lot of mistakes in the past which are very public. Which I own. Which I regret, which I have deep shame for, which I’ve apologized for repeatedly, publicly as well as privately.’

But, he said, ‘to have this experience with God and to know that God loves me, and God forgives me, it was very healing, because I then forgave myself.’ 

Hilton also noted he harbored guilt over ‘all of the mistakes – not even mistakes, they were awful decisions that I made’ in his ‘enfant terrible phase’ as a celebrity blogger, when he ‘knew what I was doing was wrong and I didn’t care.’

‘It’s like if you’re a drug addict, and you’re stealing from your parents’ money to buy drugs. You know what you’re doing is wrong, and you don’t care. You just want that hit,’ the father-of-three continued. ‘And that was truly what I was doing.’

For Hilton, the ‘most powerful drug’ was the ‘attention’ he garnered as an online gadfly, ‘and I didn’t care who I hurt in the process.’

Still, his ‘experience with God’ did not inspire a total career change. 

When people ask if he’d consider changing professions, Hilton told them: ‘No, because I’m not doing gossip. I do celebrity journalism.’

If you or someone you know needs help in the US, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on 988. If you are in the UK, call Samaritans on 116 123 for free. If you are in Australia, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

The west of the country will enjoy the deepest views, with the Isle of Barra expected to see around 93% of the Sun covered, while Glasgow will experience around 91.4%coverage and Edinburgh around 90.7%

Scotland is just days away from witnessing its most dramatic solar eclipse since 1999, and if you’re planning to watch the event, experts are urging people to buy eclipse glasses before they sell out.

Every major eclipse sees certified eclipse glasses disappear from shelves in the run-up to the event, while counterfeit products often appear on online marketplaces, raising concerns that unsafe glasses could damage people’s eyesight.

On Wednesday, August 12, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, creating a spectacular partial solar eclipse across Scotland. The west of the country will enjoy the deepest views, with the Isle of Barra expected to see around 93% of the Sun covered, while Glasgow will experience around 91.4% coverage and Edinburgh around 90.7%.

Where to buy eclipse glasses in Scotland

If you haven’t already bought eclipse glasses, now is the time, as demand is expected to increase sharply before August 12.

Independent opticians

Many independent opticians across Scotland stock certified eclipse glasses ahead of major astronomical events. Availability varies, so it’s worth calling your nearest practice before making a special journey.

National optical retailers

Selected branches of Specsavers, Boots Opticians and other major optical chains may also have certified eclipse viewers available. Stock levels differ by location and are likely to become increasingly limited in the days before the eclipse.

Museums and observatories

Science museums, observatories and astronomy visitor centres are among the most reliable places to find genuine eclipse glasses. Museum gift shops sometimes stock certified solar viewers ahead of major celestial events.

Trusted online astronomy retailers

If you’re buying online, choose established astronomy retailers or reputable science suppliers rather than unfamiliar third-party marketplace sellers. Make sure to check delivery dates so your glasses arrive before eclipse day.

How to spot fake eclipse glasses

Experts warn that fake eclipse glasses regularly appear online before major eclipses.

Only eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the international ISO 12312-2:2015(E) safety standard should be used.

Before buying, check for:

• ISO 12312-2 certification.
• The manufacturer’s name and contact details.
• Instructions explaining safe use.
• Packaging that appears professionally printed and unopened.

Avoid products that are unusually cheap, have no manufacturer information or lack safety markings. Ordinary sunglasses, no matter how dark they are, do not provide enough protection to safely view the Sun.

Never look directly at the Sun

Even with more than 90% of the Sun covered across much of Scotland, it is never safe to look directly at a partial solar eclipse without certified eye protection.

Looking at the Sun without the correct filters can permanently damage the retina, often without causing any immediate pain or warning.

Anyone planning to use binoculars, telescopes or cameras should also make sure they have specialist solar filters fitted.

No eclipse glasses? You can still watch safely

If eclipse glasses have sold out, there are still safe ways to enjoy the event.

A simple pinhole projector made from a piece of card allows you to project an image of the eclipsed Sun onto another surface without looking directly at it. Many astronomy organisations are also expected to livestream the eclipse online.

What time is the solar eclipse in Scotland?

Timings vary slightly depending on where you are in Scotland.

On the Isle of Barra, the eclipse will begin at around 6.05pm, reach its maximum at around 7.03pm when approximately 93% of the Sun will be covered, before ending at around 7.58pm.

In both Glasgow and Edinburgh, the eclipse will start at around 6.08pm. Glasgow will reach its peak at around 7.06pm with around 91.4% coverage, while Edinburgh will see its maximum at around 7.05pm with approximately 90.7% of the Sun obscured.

In both cities, the eclipse is expected to end at around 8pm.

Best places to watch the eclipse in Scotland

The Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides is expected to offer Scotland’s best view of the eclipse.

Because it lies farthest west and closest to the path of totality, Barra is forecast to experience around 93% coverage, making it the country’s top location for skywatchers.

Elsewhere along the west coast, the Outer Hebrides, Isle of Skye and the Ayrshire coast are all expected to provide outstanding viewing conditions thanks to their uninterrupted views across the Atlantic and Firth of Clyde.

In Edinburgh, where around 90.7% of the Sun will be obscured, popular viewing locations include Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill, where the Astronomical Society of Edinburgh is expected to host a public viewing event using solar telescopes, and Blackford Hill beside the Royal Observatory Edinburgh.

Meanwhile, Glasgow is forecast to enjoy around 91.4% eclipse coverage. Some of the city’s best vantage points include Cathkin Braes, the highest point in the Glasgow area, Loch Lomond Shores, which offers expansive views across the water, and the flagpole viewpoint in Queen’s Park.

Because the eclipse takes place shortly before sunset, the Sun will be very low above the western horizon. Experts recommend choosing an elevated location or somewhere with a clear, uninterrupted view towards the west or north-west to enjoy the best possible view.

The BBC has shared some big news ahead of the fourth series of TV hit Gladiators

Gladiators fans have said adding Joe Marler to the line-up is “perfect” casting.

The BBC has announced that the former England rugby international will be the show’s first celebrity Gladiator, and that he will take the name Mauler when he’s in the arena.

Joe, a contestant on Celebrity Traitors last year, will make his Gladiators debut when the BBC series returns next year, when “he’ll go head-to-head with some of the Contenders in special appearances packed with power, personality and plenty of surprises”.

Fans of the sports entertainment show, which is hosted by Bradley Walsh and his son Barney, have welcomed the news, with many posting messages on social media saying they “can’t wait”.

“This is epic, great signing,” one person said on Instagram, as another remarked: “Joe Marler swapping the rugby pitch for the arena. We’re here for it.” “Marler the Mauler,” quipped someone else, as another teased: “Chaos unfolding.”

Someone else wrote: “Congratulations on becoming a Gladiator. Looking forward to seeing what you can do and give the Contenders a total fright – go give them hell.”

“Perfect name,” commented another fan, while somebody else said it was the “best choice ever”.

“This is absolutely golden,” said another fan, while one said it was “perfect casting”.

Joe will line up alongside familiar Gladiator faces including Apollo, Comet and Diamond in the forthcoming series, with the show releasing a first-look image of his suit hanging alongside the outfits of his new teammates.

In a clip shared on Instagram, the star is seen walking into the Gladiators’ dressing room before turning to face the camera and saying: “Mauler will see you now.”

Behind him the names and outfits of some of the other Gladiators could be seen, such as those belonging to Steel and Legend. The name ‘Mauler’ was in between their names, with the newcomer’s red and blue vest hanging beneath it.

Gladiators was a big hit in the 90s, when it was hosted by Ulrika Jonsson, and it was brought back in 2024 with Bradley and Barney taking the reins.

So far three series have aired, and a fourth run has been confirmed for next year.

Gladiators returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in 2027.

A heroic police officer took down a drugs suspect who aimed a crowbar at his head amid the Met’s week-long crackdown. 

Two plainclothes officers had stopped the 28-year-old man as he rode a stolen moped in Brixton.

Tied to the moped was a carrier bag containing MDMA, cocaine and pink cocaine, a popular cocktail of ketamine, MDMA and caffeine mixed with pink food dye. 

Cannabis and £1,500 in cash were also found. As the man ran away, officers chased and cornered him in a car park. 

He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and grievous bodily harm after he hit an officer in the face with a crowbar. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

This arrest occurred within the same week as Operation Gallium, a week-long pursuit to tackle gun crime and serious violence, which saw nearly 300 arrests and 38 dangerous weapons seized.

It was led by the boroughs with support from specialist crime. 

The crackdown across Lambeth and Southwark saw officers execute warrants, conduct stop and searches to remove dangerous drugs and weapons from the streets and apprehend known gang members who had contributed to rising serious youth violence in the area. 

He was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and grievous bodily harm after he hit an officer in the face with a crowbar

Over the past 18 months, the number of the most serious violent offences has fallen by almost 20 per cent

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The Metropolitan Police carried out a major, week-long intelligence-led crackdown on gang violence across the South London boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark, following a rise in gang tensions and high-profile violent incidents

Action was taken in Lambeth and Southwark due to a rise in gang-related tensions and a number of serious, high-profile incidents in recent months. 

The operation resulted in a total of 297 arrests, culminating in 238 charges for offences including possession of dangerous weapons, possession and supply of Class A drugs and attempted murder.

Two hundred and thirty-three stop and searches were carried out, which led to 40 arrests. 

Thirteen weapons sweeps took place, contributing to the seizure of 38 dangerous weapons, including knives and firearms. 

Ten homicides were recorded in Lambeth and Southwark between January 1 and June 3, almost 20 per cent of the 55 people killed in London this year, reports The Times.

Knife crime in both boroughs fell 18 per cent in the year to June 30, but gun crime is up 5 per cent and 11 per cent respectively. 

There have been several violent incidents in recent weeks.

Abdulkadir Mahamed, 22, was fatally stabbed on Tremadoc Road, Clapham, on July 25. Javed Khan, 22, from Wandsworth, has been charged with murder and violent disorder.

Both plainclothes officers and firearms patrol units deployed throughout the week to track down and arrest offenders known for carrying the weapons and dealing the drugs that are fuelling organised crime in the area

 297 arrests were made, resulting in 238 charges (including weapons possession, Class A drug supply, and attempted murder)

On the same day, a masked motorist pointed a gun at a man outside a Cost Cutter in Thessaly Road, Vauxhall. The firearm is believed to have jammed before the suspect fled.

Three men aged between 21 and 23 have been charged with the murder of Kamahl Cameron-Williams, 31, on Westow Hill in Crystal Palace on June 21.

Keanu Taylor, 25, was attending a barbecue on Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, when he was wounded in a drive-by shooting on May 2. He died two days later. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, who led the week-long operation, said: ‘This activity is part of an ongoing campaign to drive down violence and make our neighbourhoods safer. 

‘That sustained approach is already delivering results, with knife crime down by 18 per cent across Lambeth and Southwark.

‘But we know that despite this success, gangs continue to do harm to London’s communities. In recent weeks and months, more families have had to endure the unimaginable pain of losing a loved one to senseless violence.

‘We do not want to see another life lost, which is why we’re so determined to keep taking robust action.

‘Those driving serious violence across London should be under no illusion. We are targeting them relentlessly, and we will use every power available to take weapons, drugs and dangerous offenders off our streets.’

13 weapons sweeps, which contributed to the seizure of 38 dangerous weapons, including knives and firearms

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Action was taken in Lambeth and Southwark due to a rise in gang-related tensions and a number of serious, high-profile incidents in recent months

Led by Detective Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, the operation is part of an ongoing campaign that has helped reduce knife crime by 18% in Lambeth and Southwark

Detective Sergeant Phil Morrison, who works on the proactive disruptions unit, said: ‘If you want to stop a young person joining a gang, you need to get them before they turn 13. The staple age is from 14 to 17. You don’t see them on the streets from 18 or 19… because they’re in prison, possibly dead or have found another way of life,’ he said.

Police described a 15-year-old boy who had eight impending cases, as delays in the justice system have affected how teenage boys are thwarted from gangs. Morrison said: ‘How can we intervene post-offence when they are being convicted three years later?’

Over the past 18 months, the number of the most serious violent offences has fallen by almost 20 per cent, while lethal gunshot victims have reduced by 27 per cent.

Homicides remain at their lowest per capita rate (1.1 per 100,000) on record, at significantly lower levels than other comparable cities.

Chaos unfolded at the opening night of the new Chaka Khan musical after the show was delayed by 40 minutes while organisers waited for the music legend to take her seat.

The opening night performance of I’m Every Woman: The Musical, starring Alexandra Burke, was due to begin at 7pm at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in north London.

But organisers delayed the curtain until guest of honour Chaka Khan, 73, had arrived and taken her seat, after the singer was held up carrying out red carpet interviews.

The ten-time Grammy winner eventually sat down at around 7.40pm, allowing the performance to begin 40 minutes late.

One attendee told the Daily Mail: ‘Chaka was really late arriving for the show. She kept everyone waiting. It was a nightmare for the organisers. They couldn’t start the show without her, so they had to keep everyone waiting.

‘The crowd got very restless. Everyone was told to be seated by 7pm, so when the show didn’t start, people got annoyed. After a while, some people got fed up with waiting and went back out to go to the loo.

During the interval, BBC presenter Naga Munchetty was seen leaving the theatre and did not return for the second half

‘The whole event was chaotic. It was really insulting to the cast and crew.’

During the interval, BBC presenter Naga Munchetty was seen leaving the theatre and did not return for the second half.

She had been among the last celebrity guests to arrive and also bypassed the red carpet despite the publicity team hoping invited stars would pose for photographs.

In video obtained by the Daily Mail, Naga is seen smoking a cigarette before walking hand-in-hand with her husband James Haggar towards the Tube station.

‘Naga’s early departure is likely to ruffle feathers among the publicity team,’ a source said. ‘The venue was at capacity for the performance, and they were only able to offer VIP tickets to a select number of celebs.’

The difficult opening comes as the production has received poor reviews, including a one-star verdict from The Standard.

The show, which tells the untold story of Chaka Khan’s life, stars Alexandra Burke in the lead role.

It has a running time of two hours and 30 minutes, with tickets priced between £28 and £65.

Naga’s appearance at the event came just days after it was announced she will leave BBC Breakfast after 17 years.

The presenter is preparing to join Radio 5 Live’s flagship breakfast programme from the new year, replacing Rachel Burden, 51, and Rick Edwards, 47, after they announced they would step down in December.

Organisers delayed the curtain until guest of honour Chaka Khan, 73, had arrived and taken her seat, after the singer was held up carrying out red carpet interviews

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Her shuffling towards a full-time radio job comes after a series of controversies involving the presenter.

Her future at BBC Breakfast was thrown into doubt last year due to a formal probe being launched over allegations she had bullied a junior staffer.

It was also reported the broadcaster was called into a meeting over a sex jibe made during an ad break on her radio programme.

She was accused of bullying a female colleague and making a ‘wildly unprofessional off-air sex joke that left a co-worker ‘humiliated,’ but remained in her job at the BBC.

The probe into Ms Munchetty was launched after an internal review of bullying and misconduct allegations was opened into the beleaguered flagship breakfast programme last year.

This followed BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani taking an extended period of leave after facing his own allegations of bullying and misconduct.

On Wednesday the Daily Mail revealed the presenter believes she was made to look like a ‘monster’ during the fallout from the complaints, with sources close to the presenter claiming her exit marks a victory for Frediani and his so-called ‘boys’ club.’

Sources told the Daily Mail it was an ultimatum for BBC bosses between keeping the presenter or her editor.

Belfast will see around 93.1% of the Sun covered at maximum eclipse, making it one of the deepest eclipses visible from the city in decades

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Skywatchers in Belfast are just days away from witnessing one of the most spectacular astronomical events in years, and if you’re planning to watch next week’s solar eclipse, experts say it’s worth buying eclipse glasses before stocks disappear.

Every major eclipse sees demand for certified eclipse glasses surge in the days leading up to the event. At the same time, counterfeit eclipse viewers often appear on online marketplaces, prompting warnings that fake glasses could put people’s eyesight at risk.

On Wednesday, August 12, the Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, creating a deep partial solar eclipse across Northern Ireland. Belfast will see around 93.1% of the Sun covered at maximum eclipse, making it one of the deepest eclipses visible from the city in decades.

Where to buy eclipse glasses in Belfast

If you still need eclipse glasses, it’s worth shopping sooner rather than later as demand is expected to increase significantly before eclipse day.

Local opticians

Many independent opticians in Belfast stock certified eclipse glasses ahead of major astronomical events. Availability varies between practices, so it is worth contacting your nearest optician before making a special trip.

National optical retailers

Selected branches of Specsavers, Boots Opticians and other major optical chains may also have certified solar viewers available. Stock levels differ by store and are expected to become increasingly limited as August 12 approaches.

Museums and science centres

Science museums, observatories and astronomy visitor centres are among the most reliable places to find genuine eclipse glasses. Gift shops attached to science attractions sometimes stock certified solar viewers in the run-up to major eclipses.

Trusted online retailers

If you’re buying online, stick to established astronomy retailers or reputable science suppliers rather than unfamiliar third-party marketplace sellers. Be sure to check delivery dates so your glasses arrive before the eclipse.

How to spot fake eclipse glasses

Consumer groups have repeatedly warned that counterfeit eclipse glasses appear online before major eclipses, particularly through third-party marketplace sellers.

Experts recommend only using eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2:2015(E).

Before buying, check for:

• ISO 12312-2 certification printed on the glasses.
• The manufacturer’s name and contact details.
• Clear instructions explaining safe use.
• Packaging that appears professionally produced and undamaged.

Avoid glasses that are unusually cheap, have no manufacturer details or make exaggerated claims. Ordinary sunglasses, no matter how dark they are, are not safe for looking directly at the Sun.

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Never look directly at the Sun

Even though more than 93% of the Sun will be hidden by the Moon, it is never safe to look directly at a partial solar eclipse without certified eye protection.

Looking at the Sun without the correct filters can permanently damage your eyesight, often without causing any immediate pain or warning.

Anyone planning to use binoculars, telescopes or cameras should also ensure they are fitted with specialist solar filters.

No eclipse glasses? You can still watch safely

If you can’t get hold of eclipse glasses before they sell out, there are still safe ways to enjoy the event.

A simple pinhole projector made from a piece of card allows you to project an image of the eclipsed Sun onto another surface without looking directly at it. Many astronomy organisations are also expected to livestream the eclipse online.

What time is the solar eclipse in Belfast?

The eclipse will begin at 6.10pm BST on Wednesday, August 12, as the Moon starts to move across the face of the Sun.

Maximum eclipse will occur at 7.08pm BST, when around 93.1% of the Sun will be covered. At this point, the Sun will sit around 15 degrees above the west-northwest horizon, making an open viewing location especially important.

The partial eclipse will come to an end at 8.03pm BST, shortly before sunset.

Best places to watch the eclipse in Belfast

Because the eclipse takes place during the evening, the best viewing spots will be those with an uninterrupted view towards the west or west-northwest horizon.

Cave Hill is expected to be one of the city’s best vantage points thanks to its elevated views across Belfast. The nearby OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory near Omagh is also expected to attract skywatchers hoping for darker skies and excellent viewing conditions.

Other large open parks and elevated areas around Belfast with clear western views should also provide excellent opportunities to watch what promises to be the most dramatic solar eclipse visible from the city in decades.

Video game behemoth Electronic Arts has officially changed hands following a monumental $55 billion acquisition.

The California-based developer, known for blockbuster franchises like “Battlefield” and “The Sims,” confirmed Tuesday the sale of its business to a consortium including Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund PIF, investment firm Silver Lake Partners, and Affinity Partners, led by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of Donald Trump.

This record-setting transaction marks the largest private equity-funded buyout in history, potentially signaling significant shifts within the global gaming landscape.

EA CEO Andrew Wilson stated the new ownership would “invest boldly, accelerate innovation, and build the next generation of games and experiences for the hundreds of millions of players and fans who inspire us every day.”

Turqi Alnowaiser, PIF’s deputy governor and head of international investments, echoed this, pledging to “invest heavily in EA’s growth,” particularly through artificial intelligence in game development. PIF had already held a minority stake in EA for five years.

While some analysts suggest going private could offer EA greater freedom from public market pressures, others highlight the $20 billion in debt financing, raising concerns about potential layoffs and cost-cutting measures.

The involvement of Saudi Arabia’s PIF and Kushner’s Affinity Partners has drawn considerable scrutiny. Critics are questioning the implications for EA’s future game development.

The U.K.-based campaign #BlockTheEADeal, which previously urged regulators to challenge the buyout, warned in an online petition: “With this deal, Saudi Arabia and Jared Kushner just bought access to 700 million players worldwide.

With the increased use of AI in the creative sector and video games, the potential for data misuse by a foreign sovereign is high and poses significant international security risks.”

Kushner, in a Tuesday statement, asserted that EA had “created stories, characters, and communities that have become part of everyday life for hundreds of millions of people” and that Affinity was “excited to support the company as it continues to reach new audiences.”

Meanwhile, human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have consistently criticized Saudi Arabia’s extensive investments in sports and esports, often accusing the nation of “sportswashing” to divert attention from its human rights record.

PIF has steadily expanded its gaming portfolio, already holding a minority stake in Nintendo and a substantial esports presence, including platforms like ESL FACEIT. EA’s “Madden NFL” and “EA Sports FC” (formerly FIFA) will now join this growing umbrella.

With the transaction finalized, EA stockholders will receive $210 in cash per share, and the company’s stock is no longer traded on the public market.

The closure orders were granted by Tameside Magistrates’ Court on 29 July 2026 following enforcement action by Greater Manchester Police’s Oldham neighbourhood teams working in collaboration with GMP’s legal team.

Officers received information from residents, councillors and partner agencies regarding suspicious activity linked to the addresses on Balfour Street and Miriam Street, leading to investigations by neighbourhood teams.

Concerns included men arriving throughout the day and night, staying for short periods of time before leaving again and causing significant distress to those living nearby.

Neighbourhood Inspector for Oldham South & West, Amie Whitehead, said: “We’re committed to addressing the issues that matter most to residents, and these closure orders show that we will act on information provided by our communities.

“These two premises had a significant impact on people living nearby, with men attending the addresses throughout the day and night and loitering outside neighbouring homes while waiting to enter.

Miriam Street, Failsworth (Image: Google)

“Residents told us this behaviour was causing considerable distress within the community and affecting their quality of life.

“We’ve responded to reports, worked with partners and gathered evidence to take enforcement action, and have now secured closure orders to prevent further criminality and protect the local community.

“I would like to thank residents who came forward with information. Community intelligence is vital in helping us identify and address this type of offending.”

On Monday 27 July, neighbourhood officers attended an address on Balfour Street, Oldham, in relation to a concern for welfare.

Upon entering the property, officers identified a brothel operating at the address.

One man fled from the rear of the property but was subsequently detained. Two people were arrested on suspicion of controlling prostitution for gain.

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised and, following an application to the court, a three-month closure order has now been granted.

On the evening of Tuesday 28 July, officers from the Oldham South Neighbourhood Team executed a Section 8 PACE warrant at an address on Miriam Street following reports from the local community.

During the operation, two women were arrested and bailed as the investigation continues.

A 48-hour closure notice was authorised at the property, and a three-month closure order has now been granted by the court.

It is now a criminal offence to enter or remain in either property during the period of the closure orders.

It has been confirmed that the 66-year-old actor will return to his role as Leslie Higgins, the club’s mild-mannered director of football operations.

As well as starring on Apple TV in one of the platform’s most streamed shows, the actor has also starred in Downton Abbey as a butler – and he may well be one of Teesside’s most quietly successful exports.

Swift was born in Stockton, the son of two music teachers, in 1960 and grew up in the region before training at the Guildford School of Acting in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

He spent much of the 1980s working almost exclusively in theatre, including stints with Deborah Warner’s Kick Theatre company and the comedy performance-art group The People Show, alongside numerous television commercials.

Building a screen career

Swift’s early screen credits included a notable role in Mike Leigh’s acclaimed 1990 film Life Is Sweet, which brought him critical praise, followed by a memorable villainous turn in 1997’s The Borrowers.

He continued building his profile through the 1990s and 2000s with roles in productions including Dalziel and Pascoe, The Smoking Room and Casualty, as well as film parts in Robert Altman’s Gosford Park and the 2005 adaptation of Oliver Twist, in which he played Mr Bumble.

His profile rose further with roles in Michael Apted’s Amazing Grace and the family favourite Fred Claus, before he became a familiar face to costume drama fans as election agent Glenvil Harris across the final two series of Foyle’s War.

Spratt, Higgins and household names

Swift found wider recognition playing Septimus Spratt, the calculating butler to the Dowager Countess, across three seasons of Downton Abbey – a role that made him a recognisable face on both sides of the Atlantic.

It was his casting as Leslie Higgins, the loyal Head of Football Director at AFC Richmond, in Apple TV’s Ted Lasso that brought Swift his biggest international audience.

The role, which he played across all four seasons of the hit comedy, earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2021.

Swift has described Higgins as a character who changed the least over the show’s run, something he considers no bad thing given the warmth audiences felt for him.

The drought crisis gripping the UK is revealed in a new Met Office map showing areas where just 3% of expected rainfall came during the entire month of July as farmers warned of impending food shortages

Britain’s drought crisis is laid bare in new weather maps showing a frightening lack of rainfall across the country.

Half of England is currently under official drought conditions after some areas recorded almost no rainfall in the entire month of July.

While rain has fallen in areas further north in recent days, helping boost reservoirs and alleviate some of the severe impacts on farming, forecasts show more dry, hot weather in the Southeast of England – the hardest-hit region.

One weather map, issued by the Met Office, shows that rainfall was 65% below average across the UK last month. New maps issued by the service this week indicate the lack of rain has hampered soil moisture, which is causing havoc for farmers across the UK.

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Large swathes of the UK is in a brown hue in the graphic, which indicates soil moisture is low – as much as 1% in some parts of the East of England and the Southeast of England – at the moment.

Soil moisture is a measurement favoured for showing the exact amount of water available in the ground to sustain plant life and agriculture. The benchmark required for supporting plants and wildlife is typically around 30%.

Reacting to this data, Met Office meteorologist Aidan McGovern said in a forecast bulletin: “It’s not good news – we really need the rain… You obviously need soil moisture for those plants to continue to thrive and we are seriously lacking in soil moisture across a large part of England and Wales.

“I’ve just picked a point there, but it’s representative of a large area of England or Wales, 1% soil moisture in that top 40 centimetres, less than 30% supposedly over a long period time. It really isn’t good news for plants and all sorts of wildlife that need plant life and so on.”

Southern England experienced just 3% of its long-term average rainfall for the month – its driest month ever recorded – while Wales was on 9%.

Only the far north of Scotland bucked the trend, recording 69% of its average rainfall after continued downpours and more changeable conditions.

Farmers sounded the warning this week that some everyday food staples – such as wheat, barley, and potatoes – could be set to jump in price due to shortages in the coming months after the worst summer harvest in living memory.

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said: “We have taken food production for granted for too long; we must create a more resilient food system to feed the 29 million households across the country, and we can’t produce food without water.

“Those other countries around the world that we currently rely on to produce our food and vegetables, their climates are changing as well. It does feel like there is going be some shortages of products.”

Hosepipe bans have been in place across the Southeast of England and East Anglia for several weeks – and in Whitstable and Herne Bay, Kent, local residents have been urged to use water for essential purposes only to prevent a sudden loss of water supply.

South East Water’s Matthew Dean said: “Due to the prolonged period of hot and dry weather, water levels in our local drinking water storage tank in the Whitstable and Herne Bay areas continue to be extremely low.

“This may soon impact our ability to pump fresh drinking water to our customers. All customers are currently in supply. However, if demand for water continues to remain high, there is a risk of supply interruptions.”

He continued: “We’re continuing to ask customers to use water for essential purposes only: drinking, cooking and hygiene. This is in line with our temporary usage ban that is now in place for all of our 2.4 million customers across our supply area.

“To safeguard our shared resource and help prevent any homes from facing a sudden loss of water, we are incredibly grateful to everyone helping us protect water supplies in Kent.”

Showers are forecast across the Northeast of England on Thursday, but not enough to improve soil moisture significantly. Temperatures are likely to rise next week too, with 35C expected across the East of England and parts of the Southeast of England.