A 200m (650ft) stretch of train track was left suspended in the air following flash floods and landslides in central Bosnia-Herzegovina.

At least 19 people have died, and several others have been reported missing. A state of emergency has been declared.

Footage has also shown homes and vehicles being almost submerged by flood waters

Your obituary of Peter Jay “The editor who became Britain’s man in Washington” (September 28) highlights his continued importance, not least to students of economics who are still reminded of the speech he drafted for his father-in-law prime minister, James Callaghan, to deliver at the 1976 Labour party conference. It included the lines “we used to think that you could spend your way out of a recession . . . I tell you in all candour that that option no longer exists”.

Jonathan Derbyshire’s obituary correctly points out this speech “called time” on the traditional economic policies and instruments of the postwar consensus. But the tribute could have made more of the period when Jay was BBC economics editor. There was no mention, for example, of his documentary and book The Road to Riches. It’s worth rereading. In it Jay comments that after many years of wars (from the nine years’ war to the American war of independence) there had been a massive increase in the UK national debt despite a huge increase in taxation. Sound familiar? The solution, he wrote, was “to make it easier and more attractive for those with money to lend to the government and less burdensome for the government to borrow”.

In modern terms, reform of the government bond (gilts) market could provide a parallel. Three aspects are worthy of attention. The market could be made more easily accessible to retail investors via online share-dealing platforms.

Inflation-linked annuities — surely the most appropriate investment for securing retirement income — could be provided directly by the Debt Management Office. The private sector seems particularly poor at providing such instruments.

And third, government debt to directly finance much-needed capital infrastructure projects could be launched. It is a time for creativity in government debt management rather than just filling black holes.

Paul Temperton
Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, UK

A retired police officer is under a criminal investigation over the wrongful conviction of Andy Malkinson for a rape he did not commit, the police watchdog has said.

The former Greater Manchester Police officer is being investigated for allegedly perverting the course of justice and misconduct in public office in relation to Mr Malkinson’s trial 20 years ago, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said.

The former officer and three other officers, who are also retired, are also being investigated for alleged gross misconduct.

Mr Malkinson was exonerated last year after suffering the longest miscarriage of justice of the 21st century.

Mr Malkinson said he felt vindicated by the IOPC investigation but he would “not be satisfied until officers face real consequences”.

“If Greater Manchester Police get away with what they did to me, they’ll keep doing it. It’s as simple as that,” he said.

Judges at the Court of Appeal were told of long-undisclosed DNA evidence that showed another man must have been the rapist in an attack on a woman in 2003.

No forensic evidence ever linked Mr Malkinson to the victim and he did not bear a facial injury that she had inflicted upon her attacker as she fought to defend herself.

He did not look like her initial description of the rapist and there was no evidence to link him to the secluded scene of the crime, near Bolton.

Mr Malkinson spent 17 years in jail protesting his innocence and a major judge-led inquiry is continuing into how the wrong man was convicted.

The decision to investigate the four officers comes after the IOPC took over a review into how GMP had itself handled complaints from Mr Malkinson.

An IOPC statement said that it was looking at how GMP came to identify Mr Malkinson as the key suspect and whether witnesses had been offered incentives to pick him out.

The watchdog said it was also investigating whether there had been a failure to disclose information that may have helped Mr Malkinson at his trial and it was also looking at whether officers followed the “appropriate processes” in how Mr Malkinson had been identified.

The watchdog said it was also investigating how GMP handled and disposed of evidence.

During Mr Malkinson’s successful appeal last year, it emerged that the original DNA samples recovered from the victim and her clothing had been destroyed.

Catherine Bates, IOPC Regional Director, said: “Mr Malkinson is a victim of one of the worst miscarriages of justice in British history.

“Following a detailed review of evidence spanning a period of more than 20 years, we have now informed four retired GMP officers that they are under investigation for potential gross misconduct.

“One of the officers has also been notified that they are under criminal investigation for potential misconduct in public office and perverting the course of justice in relation to their actions during the police investigation and subsequent trial.

“We will continue to keep Mr Malkinson and GMP updated on our progress.”

Emily Bolton, Mr Malkinson’s lawyer at the legal charity APPEAL, welcomed the IOPC’s decision to continue its investigation.

“Andy’s wrongful imprisonment was not an unavoidable accident,” she said.

“Police accountability isn’t optional – it’s essential. Andy, his family, and the rape victim in this case all deserve justice.”

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‘Show appreciation for good service’

‘My regulars took me out and paid for my drinks’

‘It’s nice to have a guide’

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‘It feels like blackmail’

Nige Eaton says a service charge ‘does feel like some sort of blackmail’

‘A good review helps more than loose change’

Halepuna Waikiki

With its crescent beach framed by iconic state monument Diamond Head, Waikiki has captivated visitors for decades and inspired countless dreams of the islands—a slice of tropical paradise whose magic never fades. In fact, the postcard-beautiful city of Honolulu itself remains a timeless destination where the allure of 1960s Hawaii—a place of Mai Tais and Aloha spirit—still lingers if you know where to look and stay. So, should a serene retreat a block from the Waikiki bustle appeal, consider Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani or “The House of Welcoming Waters.” Named after a nearby fresh water source where Hawaiian Royalty once came to bathe and relax, the 284-room boutique hotel underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation by New York City-based interior design firm Champalimaud, officially opening in 2019, but after a brief Pandemic pause reopened in 2021.

‘Falls’ by artist John Okulick

In addition to a showstopping floral centerpiece, which is created new each week by the hotel’s in-house florist, the elegant kanso-style lobby (rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics, kanso emphasizes minimalism and functional beauty) also reveals pieces from Halepuna Waikiki’s impressive public art program. Look for mixed-media installation Fallsby John Okulick near the Helumoa entrance and abstract oil on canvas Composition by one of Hawaii’s most accomplished artists, Tadashi Sato, beside the front desk. Surf and underwater prints by Hawaii-based photographers, including John Hook and Wayne Levin, also feature across guest rooms and suites.

Location, Location, Location

The hotel is steps from Waikiki Beach

City breaks and beach vacations are two distinct travel experiences, but Halepuna Waikiki blends the best of both worlds beautifully with the stylish sophistication of an urban hotel and idyllic atmosphere of a tropical resort. Central yet tucked away from it all between Helumoa and Kalia Roads on the east side of Waikiki, it’s located directly across the street from sister property, the iconic Halekulani Hotel, where guests enjoy several reciprocal privileges (although more on those in a moment). The setting lends itself perfectly no matter what your focus – whether that’s getting those feet in the sand or exploring boutiques and restaurants along the nearby Waikiki Beach Walk promenade and glossy Royal Hawaiian Center.

Chic Rooms & Suites

Check into an ocean view room

Featuring plenty of refined elements inspired by its wonder-of-nature setting, guest rooms at Halepuna are elegant affairs defined by clean, minimalist lines and a palette of crisp whites, blue ombre tones, and warm wood accents. Categories range from standard to mountain, ocean, and deluxe ocean and come with full or partial balconies. The hotel’s most requested accommodation is its Grand Ocean Suite (2302) on the top floor, which boasts a connecting lanai and the largest bathroom in the entire building, plus superb Pacific Ocean views from every window. Regardless of which room you check into, though, beds are neatly made up with Mascioni Elba Italian sheets, while luxurious marble bathrooms are equipped with deep soaking tubs, Japanese Toto washlets, and SpaHalekulani bath products. You’ll also find a decent-sized fridge, tea kettle and coffee machine. For a perfect first morning, slip into your Halepuna bathrobe, pop a K-cup in the Keurig, raise the remote-controlled window shades, and watch the waves breaking on Waikiki Beach from your balcony before breakfast.

There’s Destination Dining 

Tuck into French-inspired pastries at Halekulani Bakery…

And with two ‘when in Waikiki’ dining venues under its roof, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to breakfast. If the Keurig doesn’t appeal, make Halekulani Bakery your first port of call for a morning brew. Located next door to the Halepuna lobby (on Kalia Road) and open from 6:30 am Wednesday through Sunday, guests from both hotels line up early for the mouth-watering array of French-style pastries (try the Pabana Croissant, filled with a lightly sweetened lilikoi, mango and banana cream), artisan breads and specialty coffees. Many of the ingredients used here are sourced from across the Hawaiian Islands, and it’s not unusual for items to sell out before mid-morning. Savories and sandwiches are available to-go and are perfect for a picnic lunch later at the beach or grab a slice of the Halekulani Hotel’s famous coconut cake to enjoy later with a cup of tea.

For a more leisurely sit-down affair, linger over breakfast on at least one morning at Halepuna’s fine-dining establishment, UMI by Vikram Garg. Its dining room showcases several multimedia works by artist Taiji Terasaki, with the most striking piece being Gratitude for Oceans, a large-scale artwork on Japanese shoji paper that includes an augmented reality component best viewed through Terasaki’s Instagram filter. Garg’s inventive take on Indian cuisine has made him a firm favorite among Honolulu foodies for years, and while his dinner menu celebrates the ‘bounty from the sea,’ during breakfast, dishes like the ‘Mai Tai’ Pancake, topped with caramelized pineapple and a rum coconut essence is a guest favorite. The masala omelet and umi fried rice are excellent choices on the savory side, but a small plate of locally grown pineapple with Hawaiian salt is a refreshing palate cleanser.

or sit down to breakfast at UMI by Vikram Garg

And an Elegant Pool Deck

Relax beside the 8th floor Vitality Pool

After a long flight or day of sightseeing, Halepuna’s eighth-floor Vitality Pool provides a serene and tranquil space to unwind. At its center, an infinity lap-style swimming pool flanked by luxury cabanas, sun loungers, and a jacuzzi – order cocktails like the Puna Mai Tai and small plates from the poolside bar, or sit back and take in those ocean views. The hotel’s well-equipped fitness studio and open-air lana’i garden (which features a reflexology path designed to stimulate the feet while balancing mind and body) are also located here. Functional fitness and movement classes are held every morning at 8 am (except Wednesdays) and range from an energizing stretch session to cardio and strength training on the beach. 

Plus, Stellar Guest Perks

The hotel’s public art program features commissioned works by local artists, but Halepuna encourages its guests to explore art and culture across town too, and one of several exclusive perks is complimentary entrance to the Bishop Museum and The Honolulu Museum of Art (present your room key upon entry for free admission). And if ridesharing doesn’t suit your style, then try the exclusive Tesla Experience at Halepuna. In partnership with Envoy Hawaii, the program provides an opportunity to rent the latest Tesla Model Y or Model X by the hour, day, or week, giving plenty of flexible options to suit your needs – whether that’s museum-hopping around Honolulu or heading up to Oahu’s North Shore for the day.  

Catch a Hula show at House Without A Key…

One of the toniest guest perks at Halepuna Waikiki has to be access to top-tier amenities across the street at sister property Halekulani, including its recently refreshed and stunning SpaHalekulani. Originally opened in 1907 as a rustic bungalow-style hotel, whose name means “House Befitting Heaven,” it was one of the first in Waikiki and quickly became a favorite among well-heeled travelers and famous names of the day, including Clark Gable and Doris Duke. Fronting Gray’s Beach and framed by dreamy views of Diamond Head, today it’s home to some of Honolulu’s most coveted dining and entertainment experiences, like open-air restaurant House Without A Key.

Named for author Earl Derr Biggers’ 1925 murder mystery “House Without a Key,” live Hawaiian music and hula dancing by former Miss Hawaii and Miss Hawaii-USA winners are performed every evening under the beloved 135-year-old Kiawe tree. Best enjoyed with pupus and sunset cocktails, like the signature mai tai, although the new list by the hotel’s talented mixology director Tuda Sarian has plenty of tempting creations, including a Coconut Cake Martini inspired Halekulani’s famous confection. For an after-dinner nightcap and live jazz, head inside the hotel to Lewers Lounge around 8 p.m., an ideal time to snag a table at this hidden gem cocktail lounge that transports you to 1920s Manhattan. Inspired by some of jazz’s most iconic entertainers, the list features sophisticated, spirit-forward creations such as Smoke Rings – a nod to “King of Soul” Sam Cooke, composed with Whistle Pig Piggyback 6-Year Rye, Amaro Angeleno, and grapefruit bitters with a cherry wood smoke garnish – that makes a perfect late-night sipper.

Room rates at the Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani range from $350 per night and suites start at $1,100 with no resort fees; halepuna.com.

and stop by Lewers Lounge for live jazz and cocktails © Justin Alford

With each side boasting a Man of Steel nominee in their ranks – in Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis and Warrington’s Matt Dufty – and just two points and one place separating the pair in the table after 27 regular-season games, the semi-final showdown promised much.

Batchelor gave the hosts a deserved lead in the 18th minute of a captivating tie, as he stretched out to finish after squirming free of two tacklers.

Warrington improved after the setback and had a Dufty try ruled out for obstruction on the half-hour mark, only to then go further behind in controversial circumstances.

Referee Liam Moore ruled that Burgess had managed to ground his effort after crashing over from close range, and despite it being sent to the television match official there was no conclusive video evidence to overrule the on-field call.

Ashton gave Warrington the ideal start to the second half, slamming the ball down for Wolves’ first try in the 46th minute having started the initial attack with a brilliant break and run.

And the lively winger had Wolves back within two points of the hosts as he took a Dufty pass on the left before diving over in the corner.

Josh Thewlis’ failure to land either conversion left the visitors still chasing the game with 20 minutes left, but Ashton’s 24th and 25th tries of the Super League campaign set up a tense and, at times, chaotic finish.

Hull KR’s defence worked tirelessly to keep the Wolves from snatching victory, though two chances went begging with a Thewlis try ruled out for a forward pass from Rodrick Tai, while a last-minute touchdown from Toby King failed to count as Dufty knocked-on before the winger collected the loose ball to scamper over.