Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 A Palestinian child plays with the rubble after Israel bombs Palestinians' tents and shelters in Rafah, Gaza, on May 27, 2024. President Donald Trump's White House has instructed the U.S. military to release a hold imposed by the Biden administration on the supply of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, a White House source told Reuters on Saturday. The move was widely expected. Then-President Joe Biden put the hold on the delivery of those bombs due to concern over the impact they could have in Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza. A ceasefire to halt the war was recently agreed. The Biden administration's particular concern had been over the use of such large bombs in the city of Rafah, where more than one million Palestinians in Gaza had taken refuge. This story is developing. Please check back for updates. The US Department of Justice this week announced that it had indicted two North Korean nationals and three other men, accusing them of participating in a conspiracy designed to trick US companies into funding the North Korean regime. According to the indictment, which was filed in federal court in Miami, the scheme leveraged stolen identity documents and paid henchmen in the US to direct well-paid IT work and company computers to two North Korean men, Jin Sung-Il and Pak Jin-Song. The idea, the Justice Department said, was to funnel money back to the North Korean regime, which has limited opportunities to generate cash through legal means thanks to heavy international sanctions. The conspiracy, according to the indictment, centers on North Korean nationals posing as foreign workers in other nations, or as US nationals, and gaining employment via online platforms that allow companies to advertise for contract IT workers. Using fake or altered identity documents, the North Koreans took on contracts for several US companies, which were not identified by name in the indictment. Those businesses then shipped company laptops to three US-based co-conspirators, Pedro Ernesto Alonso De Los Reyes, Erick Ntekereze Prince, and Emanuel Ashtor, who, the Justice Department said, installed remote access software on them so that they could be operated by Jin and Pak. Obama in 2009 taking a weeklong vacation at the home that Norman Foster bought two years later. Photo: Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images Norman Foster lives in an 18th-century Swiss chateau, drives a white Citroen Mehari, dines regularly with King Charles and David Hockney, and recently took a family vacation to Lake Como where he stayed in a villa that appears in Succession. Its a level of fancy so unusual for an architect that The New Yorker put it at the center of a piece that dropped this week, and argues Foster achieved it through the kind of obsessive control that also led him to once cook pesto by counting out more than a hundred basil leaves, one by one. He cares about food, in a Norman Foster way, says the chef Ruthie Rogers, who witnessed the scene. We broke down the fun. Becoming the Obamas Landlord Foster may be the master architect of pristine glass boxes, but he vacations in a schlocky farmhouse built in the 1990s to resemble the house in Field of Dreams. Its on Marthas Vineyard, and is best known as the rental that the Obamas used as a de facto summer White House during his first term. The owners sold it in 2011 to Foster, who tells Ian Parker that he later met the president at a neighbors home, where Obama suggests that Foster rent it back to them a request made with a jokey pressure that Foster found amusing. He said no. Instead, he ripped out the Obama ephemera left behind at an outbuilding an absurd amount of wiring that he speculates must have been related to communications and security. Obama outside one of the outbuildings on the 28-acre compound. Photo: Jewel Samad/AFP/Gety Images On the Modesty of 270 Park 270 Park Avenue in August 2024. JPMorgan Chase is planning to move in this summer. Photo: Alamy The new JPMorgan Chase tower rising in midtown looks designed for the Harkonnen dark, shiny, cantilevered to loom over the populace, and shiny. Parker asks Foster if there were concerns about having a bank tower of shimmering gold, and Foster clarifies that its bronze, which he spins as associated with statuary. An employee insinuates that it might have been a contentious choice. (If you can sell bronze to Jamie Dimon ) More Succession Than Succession At the Marthas Vineyard compound, Ian Parker meets the architect by the swimming pool where a young woman served champagne and fried calamari. This isnt Fosters only vacation home, however. Theres another in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, one of Frances most expensive real-estate markets. And Foster sometimes rents like that villa in Lake Como or travels farther afield, even camping in Zambia, briefly in the company of the president of Zambia. Fosters actual, legal, registered address is an 18-century chateau with a view of Lake Geneva which he bought amid accusations of tax evasion. On top of his knighthood, acquired in 1990, he was appointed by Queen Elizabeth to a group called the Order of Merit in 1997 which includes David Hockney, David Attenborough, and Tom Stoppard. Dont Ask Him About the Foster Club Foster maintains control over the use of his name in marketing of his airports, skyscrapers, and museums, except for one project that he lost control of when Russia invaded Crimea. Its a resort there that now has a bar called The Foster Club with the tagline, The city falls asleep, Foster wakes up. He seems disappointed when he learns of it from Parker. Norman Foster in September at a building hes fine being associated with: San Franciscos TransAmerica tower, which reopened last year after a $250 million makeover. Photo: Loren Elliott/Bloomberg/Getty Images Hes a Gadget Dad Fosters firm had an in-house helicopter and private jet back in the 1990s when they only had 100 employees (a challenge to justify financially, an employee says). But hes just really into planes, telling an interviewer that the jumbo jet is his favorite building. Models of every aircraft type that Foster has ever flown can be found on a cabinet in one of his offices, making odd optics or a sustainability meeting, Parker writes. Then theres automatic shades that hes incessantly toying with, to the annoyance of his wife, and an autonomous lawnmower that scares the geese. Do Not Call Him the Spielberg of Architecture Danish wunderkind Bjarke Ingels describes the way that Foster scaled up his business to the work of a film director who creates massive blockbusters. Sounds glowing, until Ingels compares Koolhaas to Kubrick and Foster to Spielberg. (But has he seen The Fabelmans?) The Oprah of Travertine It of course only comes from one place in Italy one quarry in the whole planet, a JPMorgan Chase executive tells Parker about the travertine around elevator bays, an example of how Foster plans his buildings to the millimeter and gets obsessive around materials. And one guy has to match the pieces Theres one Italian guy. He lays it all out in a big warehouse, piece by piece. I think he goes by one name, like Oprah. He is Not the Chummiest An ex-wife says Foster thought that children should be seen and not heard. Parker notices that he expects to reach the end of his paragraphs, and talks over attempted interruptions with unmusical steeliness. Even Michael Bloomberg finds him difficult enough to warn JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, Look, this guy is going to be hard to work with. 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So let me mark its card: almost everything Trump had to say will involve a whole world of pain for the Labour government, effective immediately. So far the British Government has been most concerned about the prospect of across-the-board Trump tariffs on our exports to America. Ministers with previously no time for the US-UK special relationship have been bigging it up in a desperate attempt to win a carve out exemption for Britain from any tariffs levied on Europe. Even the King was dragooned into sending Trump a congratulatory message referring to the special relationship. The grovelling has been nauseating. Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who once referred to Trump as a woman-hating sociopath and a racist Ku Klux Klan and Nazi sympathiser to boot, now trills about his incredible grace and generosity. Whereas Lammy once saw the President as deluded, dishonest, xenophobic and narcissistic, he is now deemed to be funny, friendly, warm. Pass the sick bag, Alice. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner once described Trump as a buffoon who deserved no place in the White House. Now our great guru of geopolitics (and multiple homes) opines sagely on the need to build on the special relationship. So far the British Government has been most concerned about the prospect of across-the-board Trump tariffs on our exports to America, writes Andrew Neil As Trump cuts taxes, energy prices and regulations, the Starmer government will take us in the opposite direction on all three fronts, says Andrew Neil Those who think Trump is impressed by any of this dont know him. Hell lap up the fawning but he wont forget the egregious slights (and those around him wont let him forget). He owes Britain no favours when it comes to tariffs and none is likely to be given, even if his main target is the European Union, which runs a 140 billion trade surplus in goods with America exporting more to the US than vice versa (trade with Britain is broadly in balance). In truth, tariffs are the least of the British Governments worries. Starmers bizarre efforts to give up then lease back the Chagos Islands will be the first bust-up. Under Trump the US will simply not allow Britain to hand over the sovereignty of such a strategic asset to Mauritius, a Chinese ally. There will be a humiliating climb down in which Lammy will discover just how ungracious Trump can be in a confrontation. It will sour Anglo-American relations for some time to come. But the Trump administration represents a threat on a far broader front. Trump aims to consolidate Americas economic supremacy with lower taxes, cheaper energy and much less regulation of business. Its worth noting that the UK already has higher taxes, much higher energy prices and a far stricter regulatory regime for business than America. That explains why America has rebounded back from the pandemic downturn far more robustly than Europe. The US economy is now 12 per cent bigger than at the end of 2019, the eve of the pandemic. Britain? Were only three per cent bigger. Europe doesnt fare much better. France is up 4 per cent, Germany is up zero per cent. The Eurozone as a whole 5 per cent. Donald Trump takes the oath of office during his inauguration on Monday, standing with wife Melania Trump wants to go further and faster on all three fronts, leaving sluggish European economies, like Britain, in its dust. At 21 per cent, the US tax on business profits is already lower than Britains 25 per cent. Trump wants to cut it to 15 per cent, well below any other major economy. In Britain, you start to pay the 40 per cent higher rate of income tax at just over 50,000 a year. In America, you dont pay the highest 37 per cent federal rate of income tax until you earn more than 500,000. Trump wants to cut income taxes further. No wonder an increasing number of British high-flyers are looking across the Atlantic as the place to build their careers and their fortunes. Almost 11,000 millionaires and multi-millionaires left Britain in the past year in search of friendlier tax and business climes. That exodus can only gather pace as Labour pursues the exact opposite of the Trump agenda with higher taxes, soaring energy prices and more stifling, costly regulations. Britains punk Left says good riddance to the rich. It is too thick to realise that Britains tax base is walking out the door. Contrary to the Left-wing populist belief that all big earners are parasites, our tax revenue base is hugely dependent on them. The top 1 per cent of earners account for 30 per cent of income tax revenues. The top 0.1 per cent pay over 10 per cent of income tax revenues. If they go in ever greater numbers as they will then everybody else will have to pay more tax. There was an indication that this has at last dawned on Chancellor Rachel Reeves when she started talking in Davos, Switzerland, where she was schmoozing (unsuccessfully it seems) big business at the annual World Economic Forum, about making her new tax regime for non-doms less onerous. I can understand why shes revisiting this since, as many of us warned, her changes will likely result in less tax revenue, not more. But shell only tinker. The die is cast. The wealthy are leaving our shores in increasing numbers, taking their tax revenues with them in marked contrast to America where I can assure you that, far from an exodus of millionaires (bar a few virtue-signalling Hollywood luvvies), Trump is laying down the welcome mat for more. The talk in Davos was not just of people relocating to America but of companies and even company headquarters. A major spur is cheap energy. The cost of electricity for American industry is about a third of that in Britain, which now has the highest industrial electricity prices in the world. No wonder our heavy industry continues to be hollowed out. In just the past three years, the British production of chemicals, cement and electrical equipment, all heavy users of electricity, has plummeted by between 40 and 50 per cent, as companies closed because high energy costs meant they couldnt compete or fled to lower cost countries, such as America. Trump aims to give America an even bigger advantage by encouraging more drilling for oil and gas (drill, baby, drill) and ending state subsidies for expensive renewable energy. It makes UK Energy Secretary Ed Milibands obsession with decarbonising our electricity grid by 2030 even more otiose a curious crusade of national self-harm. Miliband and his acolytes claim that, though Britain now accounts for less then 1 per cent of global CO2 emissions, we must set an example for the rest of the world to follow. But far from being the Pied Piper of Net Zero, were increasingly on our own. The worlds three biggest producers of CO2 China, America and India are all set to increase their emissions by far more than any conceivable compensating British cut. China and India continue to open new coal-fired power plants on an almost weekly basis and Trumps America is all in for fossil fuels. Nobody is following our example, not even those who profess support for the Net Zero mantra, such as Luiz Lula da Silva, the Left-wing president of Brazil, where oil production has risen by more than 30 per cent in the past decade; or the former poster child for all that is green and woke, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has presided over a 25 per cent rise in oil production. Even President Biden, who liked to talk the green talk, increased oil and gas production to maintain US self-sufficiency in fossil fuels. Yet our Energy Secretary refuses any new drilling licenses for oil and gas in the North Sea, regards fracking as unconscionable but doles out multi-billion pound subsidies for more renewables. The conceit is that renewables are cheaper. The reality is the opposite. The more our electricity generation depends on renewables such as wind and solar, the more expensive it becomes, which is why the Government keeps on having to subsidise it. Huge rises in fuel bills will soon be dropping through our letterboxes to pay for the multi-billion pound upgrade of the national grid to cope with all the problems the intermittency of wind power causes to the power supply. Unlike America, the high cost of energy is crippling whats left of our industrial base. It will soon be down to a rump. Labour boasts about new digital developments to replace the heavy industries. But it does not know what its talking about. Its often thought that digital businesses dont consume anything like the energy of the old heavy industries. Nothing could be further from the truth. Sophisticated computer banks and data centres are voracious consumers of electricity. Almost 11,000 millionaires and multi-millionaires left Britain in the past year in search of friendlier tax and business climes, with more expected in the wake of Rachel Reeves's Budget. Pictured: The Chancellor at the World Economic Forum in Davos Energy Secretary Ed Miliband who claims that, though Britain now accounts for less then 1 per cent of global CO2 emissions, we must set a green example for the rest of the world to follow Britain may have left the EU but, under Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves it is now firmly ensconced in the slow lane of European economies, writes Andrew Neil Trump was able this week to announce a half-trillion dollar investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure for America (it rather dwarfs the measly 600million investment Reeves boasted about bringing back from her recent trip to China) because the three big-tech companies involved OpenAI, SoftBank and Oracle know they can count on plentiful, reliable supplies of cheap power. Contrast that with Britain, where Milibands net zero nonsense means power which, though the most expensive in the world, is far from secure because over-reliance on intermittent wind and solar means the national grid operators sometimes have to ask industry to shut down for a while to say nothing of the growing fear of blackouts. Why would a high-tech multinational locate its data centres in the UK with all these issues when it could go to, say, Georgia in the US sunbelt, which is currently installing an extra 20 gigawatts of electricity (a third of peak demand in Britain) to meet the demands of AI investors? Milibands Net Zero zealotry risks killing Britains nascent AI efforts at birth. If Milibands energy follies dont strangle new business then red tape almost certainly will. Trump says he will ditch ten regulations for every new one introduced. It is the prospect of a bonfire of red tape that has business excited again about America. There is no excitement about Labour Britain, with a government keen to align us back into the EU regulatory structure. European regulations have already stymied AI on the continent. It beggars belief Team Starmer wants to take us back into them. We now live in a world in which America innovates, China imitates and Europe regulates. I have even heard the panjandrums of Brussels boast about how the EU is a regulatory superpower. Well, good luck with that. I know of no precedent for massive regulation leading to growth or prosperity. Yet even as the competitive threat from Trumps America looms large for all to see, Brussels doubles down. It is about to roll out a corporate sustainability reporting directive and a corporate due diligence directive. Taken together they are designed to force companies based in the EU to apply EU rules to their global operations, a clear imperial desire to regulate beyond its borders. Is this really what Starmer wants to take us back into? Perhaps it is. As Trump deregulates, the British Government is introducing European-style labour market rules which will cost business an extra 5 billion a year, by its own estimate. As Trump cuts taxes, energy prices and regulations, the Starmer government will take us in the opposite direction on all three fronts. We will be the poorer for it. Along with the rest of Europe, we will stagnate while America ploughs ahead, taking much of our best and brightest with it. At the same time, Trump will be knocking on our door demanding we up our spending on defence from the current meagre 2.3 per cent of GDP. His latest demand for 5 per cent is just a bargaining position (even America spends nowhere near that, nor has it any plans to do so) but he will not settle for Labours current pathetic position that it is aiming for 2.5 per cent at some unspecified date in the future. In truth, given Starmers chosen rocky road for the UK economy, we will struggle to get to 3 per cent of GDP, which would be a decent amount. Britain may have left the EU but, under Starmer-Reeves it is now firmly ensconced in the slow lane of European economies. That is where the rest of the world sees us, including Trump. The gap between American growth and prosperity and ours will only become more glaring, exposing the folly of Starmers strategy and eventually it will be the undoing of him. Even if Trump gets it only half right, America is in for another Roaring Twenties. As for Britain, wed best steel ourselves for another Lost Decade. The Court of Appeals decision to overturn a groundless anonymity order in the Sara Sharif case is a full-blooded defence of transparency. Appeal judge Sir Geoffrey Vos yesterday allowed the naming of three judges who played an important role in the authorities dealings with poor Sara, ten, who was later murdered by her father and stepmother. Sir Geoffrey did not mince his words. After a challenge brought by media organisations, including the publishers of the Mail, he ruled the High Court judge responsible for imposing the anonymity order had got carried away and lost sight of the importance of Press scrutiny. The integrity of the justice system, he went on, had been undermined. Hear, hear. It is an embarrassment that such a decision was made in the first place. But, regretfully, it is not surprising, because so many of Britains public officials have become addicted to obfuscation and to blocking the publics right to know. As in the Sara Sharif case, there is an inclination to err on the side of caution and to withhold or prohibit the publication of vital information, even when there are absolutely no lawful grounds for doing so. Sometimes this feebleness comes from the very top. Appeal judge Sir Geoffrey Vos yesterday allowed the naming of three judges who played an important role in the authorities dealings with poor Sara Sharif (pictured), ten, who was later murdered by her father and stepmother Following the murder conviction of Sara's father, Urfan Sharif (pictured), 42, Mr Justice Williams banned the naming of professionals in the case including social workers Pictured: Beinash Batool, 30, the stepmother of Sara Sharif Take, for example, the pronouncements earlier this week of Sir Keir Starmer regarding the Southport murders. The Prime Minister, lawyerly and legalistic as ever, backed the Crown Prosecution Services attempts to bar publication of details regarding the background of sadistic murderer Axel Rudakubana. He then announced a public inquiry into the case, which is not in itself objectionable. But several very senior police officers quickly clammed up about key aspects of the way their forces dealt with Rudakubana. The officers did so on the highly convenient grounds that an inquiry will now take place, even though it has not yet even been set up. Public officials from the highest to the lowest would do well to read Sir Geoffreys ruling and spend time pondering the priorities it sets out. It may help them to avoid committing further unjustifiable acts in the future. Dealers choice The dawn of Donald Trumps second term in the White House ought to bring a myriad of economic opportunities for Britain. But, true to form, the Labour Government remains obsessed with the European Union despite 2016s historic Brexit vote. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds left the door open to not one but two potential hook-ups with Brussels. He said the EU trade commissioners suggestion Britain could join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention, which allows tariff-free trade across Europe and other fringe nations, was an incredibly positive and helpful contribution. US President Donald Trump speaks while signing executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington Separately, Mr Reynolds refused to rule out aligning the UKs farming and food regulations with the EUs. By shackling Britain to the bloc once more, the Government would risk surrendering our ability to strike independent trade deals with dynamic economies around the world. The Prime Minister and others drone on about a reset with the EU, but a fresh start with Washington DC is even more important. Ministers must repair damage caused by their previous snide remarks about Mr Trump, make the most of his deep-seated affection for this country and secure us a beneficial trade deal. Ed Milibands colleagues fear he could be about to turn the lights out on the Government. Literally. The problem is that Eds just ploughing on with his Net Zero agenda, a worried minister told me. Hes not looking at the wider politics. And Keir isnt able to control him. If Britain starts to have power cuts, itll be game over for us. Milibands green zealotry was again on display last week after it was reported he was preparing to challenge Rachel Reevess belated growth strategy. The embattled Chancellor found herself ambushed as the Energy Secretary led the charge against her plan to give the go-ahead to a third runway at Heathrow. Though he insisted he had no plans to resign over the issue, Eco Eds opposition is well documented. In 2018, he voted against the proposals, declaring: We owe it to future generations not just to have good environmental principles but to act on them. That is why I will be voting against the third runway at Heathrow. His principles have obviously become a little more flexible since taking office. But several colleagues are becoming increasingly alarmed at the influence he is having within the Starmer administration. Before the Election, Keir basically did a deal with Ed, another minister revealed to me. He said, Look, I dont want you to have too much of a public profile because itll remind people too much of the past. But Im going to give you Energy, and you can have free rein to do what needs to be done. The problem is that Miliband is now exercising that freedom with a vengeance. And as he ploughs ahead with his cherished Net Zero agenda, some analysts are starting to question whether the National Grid can keep up. Two weeks ago, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) the body responsible for the operation of the electricity system was forced to issue an Electricity Margin Notice, essentially warning that the UKs demand for power was coming dangerously close to exceeding supply. Although NESO claimed there was never a serious risk of power cuts, respected energy consultant Kathryn Porter revealed the near miss represented the tightest day in the energy market since 2011. And Milibands colleagues dont think the Government can afford many more of them. Ed Miliband, who sees himself as the new Greta Thunberg, listens to the young Swedish activist speak in Westminster in 2019 I remember sitting in the dark in the 1970s, one veteran Labour MP told me, referring to the three-day week imposed by the Tory government. It became pretty normal for us all. But it wouldnt be normal for the current generation. It would be a game-changer. And Im not sure Ed properly realises that. In part, Miliband is a victim of his own success. Within Westminster its widely acknowledged he has proven among the most adept at mastering his department, and pushing through his programme. He is also one of the few ministers who appears to be genuinely relishing Labours return to government. The Tiggerish enthusiasm with which he greets the opening of a new wind or solar farm stands in sharp contrast to those members of the Cabinet who seem to be buckling under the weight of their new offices. But his priorities and those of his Prime Minister now seem to be diverging. And whats even more troubling is neither of their agendas currently seem to be in alignment with those of the British people. Basically, weve started the new year with a relaunch, one Labour insider explained to me. Both Keir and Rachel recognise the Budget has acted like chloroform on the economy. So theyre trying to change tack and start pumping up growth. But its going to take time until the voters start to feel it. And its going to take even longer with the Net Zero albatross fastened grimly round Britains neck. Something that even some of Milibands erstwhile allies are starting to recognise. Theres a misconception that political opposition to the rush to Net Zero is confined to the reactionary Right. But last week, the Unite trade union announced it was ramping up its No Ban Without A Plan oil and gas campaign. According to general secretary Sharon Graham: Labour needs to reverse its irresponsible policy banning all new oil and gas licences irrespective of the impact on jobs. It is madness to do this without a viable plan including concrete equivalent jobs for North Sea workers and real assurances on energy security. We must not let go of one lifeline until weve got hold of another. Unite wont sit back and let workers be abandoned. Miliband still has his champions. According to reports, King Charles has let it be known he loves Ed Milibands Net Zero agenda. But given His Majestys own famous environmental radicalism, thats not necessarily reassuring to Labour MPs tasked with selling that agenda on the council estates of Rotherham and Hartlepool. Miliband also has his defenders within government. As one No 10 source insisted: Eds being pretty disciplined with his messaging. If you look at what hes saying, its always framed in terms of getting energy bills down and providing energy security. Perhaps. But the reality is that everyones energy bills remain stubbornly high. The Election pledge to save families an extra 300 a year has yet to materialise. And as we saw earlier this month, the supply of the countrys energy seems to be as precarious as ever. Miliband's three cheers for Greta. The Tiggerish enthusiasm with which he greets the opening of a new wind or solar farm stands in sharp contrast to those members of the Cabinet who seem to be buckling under the weight of their new offices Yes, Miliband has been successful at inserting Net Zero into the heart of Starmerism. But at huge risk. If the economy continues to crater. If unemployment starts to rise. If energy prices soar. If God forbid the lights do go out. Then its curtains for the Government. But itll also be curtains for Ed Milibands own dream. There is no doubt his passion for protecting the environment is real. But if his strategy fails or can only be delivered by hammering the jobs and livelihoods of working people Net Zero will become as politically toxic as the Poll Tax or university tuition fees. I asked one of Milibands colleagues if he thought he understood how high the stakes were. He shrugged. You have to understand, there are two Eds. Actually, there are three. Theres Ed the former New Labour adviser, who is well aware of the necessity of public support. Theres Ed the former party leader, who thinks he now has the chance to reshape politics. And theres Ed the minister, who sees himself as the new Greta Thunberg. The question is which one will come out on top. The fate of the Government could rest on it. In the meantime, make sure you know where the candles are. 'What do you think of it so far?' Eric Morecambe used to cry halfway through a sketch on Morecambe & Wise. 'Rubbish!' the audience would yell back cheerfully. Finding out what the voters made of their first six months of Keir Starmer has been a bit like that, minus the laughs. Most people have better things to do than think about politics, especially having endured a drawn-out general election campaign. But what gets through is telling. In my research, when we ask people what stories they remember, they mention winter fuel allowance cuts, rising small-boat migration, tax rises, the struggling economy, broken promises and the lavish supply of free accommodation, tickets, clothes and spectacles we now know the Prime Minister and his colleagues enjoyed while decrying their opponents' cronyism. Though Keir Starmer gets some credit for dealing decisively with the summer riots, and some accept his arguments against a national inquiry on grooming gangs, there remains a widespread feeling that for this government, issues connected to immigration, culture and religion are simply not for discussion. The revelations from last week's Southport killings trial will only add to that perception. The concept of 'Two-Tier Keir' and double standards in law enforcement has also taken hold in my focus groups, Labour voters often talked about criminals being released early from prison while others were locked up for things they wrote on Facebook. Apart from the train drivers and those receiving generous public sector pay awards, few think things are getting any better. 'What do you think of it so far?' Eric Morecambe used to cry halfway through a sketch on Morecambe & Wise. 'Rubbish!' the audience would yell back cheerfully Just one in 50 people think the economy is doing well (Pictured: Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves) Though Keir Starmer gets some credit for dealing decisively with the summer riots, and some accept his arguments against a national inquiry on grooming gangs , there remains a widespread feeling that immigration, culture and religion issues are simply not for discussion I found more than four in ten voters saying they had been negatively affected by one of the Government's decisions so far, including nearly a quarter of those who voted Labour. Only one in 20 said the party's actions had had a positive effect on their household. And while many voted for change, a majority again including a quarter of Labour voters say the country is still heading in the wrong direction. Just one in 50 think the economy is doing well. Though most think this is down to the Tories or factors beyond any government's control, nearly one in three say it is largely down to Labour or 'Rachel from Accounts', as Chancellor Ms Reeves is now widely known. People fear her hike in employers' National Insurance and other burdens on business will mean lower growth and higher prices, worsening rather than relieving the cost of living. Majorities in all political and demographic groups are pessimistic about Britain's future. Not only that, few feel that the Government has a sense of purpose, or have any confidence in the Prime Minister to get a grip. There is little sense that a plan exists to tackle the country's lingering crises in the economy, immigration and public services. (Whether or not they like Donald Trump or his agenda, how many will have looked wistfully across the Atlantic this week at a new administration so fiercely determined to shake things up and get things done?) Instead, ministers seem more interested in things that barely feature on voters' priority lists. Their fixation on reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions is a prime example. As I found, most think achieving net zero will mean higher costs for them and their households, and only a minority think doing so is worth the cost or would significantly help to limit climate change. Only one in ten people now thinks that Labour is doing a good job in government, research by former Conservative deputy chairman Lord Ashcroft has found Most people also oppose allowing 16 and 17-year-olds to vote, which the Government plans to legislate for this year. The ostensible reason for the change is to encourage youngsters to participate in democracy, but just over a third believe that the real motive is to harvest more votes for Labour. Despite these many complaints, Starmer's one big advantage is the divided forces ranged against him. Very few say they have yet heard anything from new leader Kemi Badenoch and the Conservatives. At this stage, most assume they are regrouping and biding their time and rightly so, given the way they left things. Asked who is currently providing the most effective opposition, voters are nearly twice as likely to name Nigel Farage and Reform with their five MPs as the Tories. Starmer retains a lead when we ask who would make the best prime minister but only 31 per cent actually choose him. Crucially for Labour, while only a quarter of their 2024 voters say the Government is doing some good things, a further six in ten say they are still prepared to give them some time despite the lack of progress. As many in my focus groups have argued, it would be tough to turn around a business in just six months, let alone a whole country after a series of political traumas and 14 years of another party's rule. People fear Rachel Reeves's hike in employers' National Insurance and other burdens on business will mean lower growth and higher prices Very few say they have yet heard anything from new leader Kemi Badenoch (pictured) and the Conservatives Asked who is currently providing the most effective opposition, voters are nearly twice as likely to name Nigel Farage and Reform This and the Tory-Reform schism explain why Labour remains fractionally ahead when we ask people how likely they currently think they are to vote for each party next time round. That said, our analysis shows that the number of voters prepared to give the Government any benefit of the doubt has fallen by ten points since the election. And the average time these people are prepared to give them before deciding if they are up to the job is now 32 months, down from 40 months in the summer. The longer time goes on with little to show for the change they craved, the more vulnerable Labour will be when the Government is really tested. In Ernest Hemingway's debut novel The Sun Also Rises, first published in 1926, one of the characters asks another how he went bankrupt. 'Two ways,' he replies. 'Gradually and then suddenly.' It's easy to see confidence in Labour following suit. Lord Ashcroft is an author, businessman, philanthropist and pollster. His research is available at LordAshcroftPolls.com Imprisoned stalkers have opened up about why they became obsessive criminals - as an expert has revealed what leads to such behaviours in a new podcast. Journalist Ruchira Sharma set out to discover what stalking actually is, and why people do it, in the Crime+Investigation programme Anatomy of a Stalker. Seven million people in England and Wales have been victims of the offence, while one in five women and one in 10 men will, unfortunately, experience it during their lifetime. Stalking involves a targeted pattern of behaviour in which the perpetrator intrudes on the victim's life where they're not wanted and have no right to be, causing distress and or fear. Forensic psychologist Dr Rachael Wheatley, who is the practitioner program director at the University of Derby, spent years looking at how men who have stalked view their behaviour. Her research has seen prisoners reveal that they wanted to 'hurt' the subjects of their obsession 'because they felt like a fool', while others truly believed they were only 'being nice' by sending messages and were driven by 'depressive episodes'. Another convicted stalker who spoke to Dr Wheatley for her work has said they got a 'kick' out of it, and even had thoughts about physically hurting others, but they know 'that's not them'. Speaking on the podcast, she stressed that it is not a mental illness, but rather, a 'pattern of behaviour' that can arise from a series of factors. Imprisoned stalkers have opened up about why they became obsessive and forensic psychologist revealed what lead to this behaviour on Anatomy of a Stalker podcast 'There's a repeated element to it,' the expert said. 'It's very obsessional, so it takes up a lot of that person's thinking time, as well as their emotions, as well as some of the acts and behaviours that they carry out. 'In terms of driving to a location, going to buy a gift, writing out a lengthy email, sending lots of texts, sending lots of voicemail messages, etc. 'Also, there's the element of it being unwanted, so intruding on the victim's life. So it's very one way where they're not wanted and have absolutely no right to be, and that also causes them distress or fear. You know, stalking isn't a mental illness.' Motivations may vary from a lack of social skills, rejection sensitivity or even a combination of things. 'It's very difficult to define a person that stalks as one particular thing,' she added. Dr Wheatley explained that a lot of stalkers also distance themselves' from the 'stalker stereotype'. Forensic psychologist Dr Rachael Wheatley, who is the practitioner program director at the University of Derby, spent years researching how men who have stalked view their stalking behaviour and she revealed a lot of stalkers 'distance themselves' from the stalker stereotype 'A lot of times, I think the stereotypes, particularly in the research that I've undertaken myself with people convicted of stalking and also in my client work is that people that have engaged in those behaviors really do distance themselves from the stereotype,' she recounted. 'I do always try really hard to avoid that word stalker. I always try to separate stalking or the person that has been stalking, putting the person first and the behaviour second. Stalker doesn't talk to behaviours, stalker is a label of a person. 'So, yeah, I don't like the label stalker. I'm not afraid of ever calling out stalking. So call it stalking is one of my taglines.' In a paper entitled It's So Hard to Get Out of That Bubble, a Phenomenological Analysis with Men Who Have Stalked, the expert and her co-authors gathered responses from male stalking offenders in prison. Seven in-depth interviews were conducted with anonymous men convicted of stalking and held in UK prisons. Speaking about his own experience, one man said: 'It's that word, Stalker. I hate it. I know that's what I'm labelled as now, but I don't think what I did classes as a Stalker. 'It's a really negative word. When someone who's a Stalker is someone really bad, I don't categorise myself as that. It should be lower to harassment, not stalking.' Another prisoner added: 'A conviction of stalking, I really don't think that's what I should have got charged for, but maybe I'm wrong. Journalist Ruchira Sharma set out to discover what stalking actually is and why do people do it in the Crime +Investigation podcast Anatomy of a Stalker 'I personally, I don't think I should be in prison now for what I've done. I mean, it's only messages being nice.' A third convicted stalking offender added: 'I wanted to be a positive force in her life, but she won't allow it. 'I've been a negative impact instead, which for me is better than being absolutely nothing at all to her. I put myself in her path, and she's now acknowledging me. She's validating me. 'It's just there and you're locked in and you just can't escape it. It just holds you. You're not living life to the full if you're stalking. 'You're that obsessed. You're so fixated to an unhealthy extent on this person that you're missing out on life. You're totally focused on this person. 'You're behaving in self-defeating ways. I mean, look at where it's got me. 'I didn't care about anyone else. Just cared about me. I didn't care how anybody else felt. I cared how I felt. When I was stalking, I was so dedicated to it, and nothing would stop me. It was my main focus.' Another added: 'When I go through a depressive episode, the stalking sort of intensifies and I start behaving more towards her. 'I wanted to hurt her because I felt like a fool. You know, I felt mugged off. I'd kind of lost control of it. 'It was like the one focus. I wanted to get my own back and I acted out. And I kind of got enjoyment out of that, you know? 'It gave me a kick, kind of got off on it. I knew that it would never go further than anything like what I was doing. I mean, I did have thoughts about, could I physically hurt her? 'But I know that's not me. Yeah, I could see I was in the wrong, but there's part of me that would say, well, hang on a minute, I'm going through all this pain over her and she can just swap me away. Like, you know, swatting an annoying fly. 'So however much I longed for her, I knew realistically it wasn't going to happen, and I suppose that's where a lot of the violent thoughts came from. Because I'd be feeling very angry. 'I'd been arrested twice, had three warnings from the police, but that didn't deter me. It didn't scare me off. So overwhelming was the need for her.' Many of the men in the paper seemed to distance themselves from the label of Stalker. The Suzy Lamplugh Trust estimates that 55 percent of convicted stalkers go on to reoffend, therefore maybe the refusal to acknowledge the behaviour as stalking could be part of the issue. Dr Wheatley claimed early intervention might be the key as she found men convicted of stalking tend to be all consumed with the victim which they find hard to break out away from. Forensic psychologist Paul Mullen created five typologies of stalking: rejected, intimacy seeking, incompetent, resentful, and predatory. Dr Wheatley revealed the categorisations are useful to help practitioners to be mindful of all the different things that might be at play in the mind of a stalking offender. She said: 'I would think of a stalker as someone like anti-social, maybe a loner, someone who kind of can't deal with rejection, maybe. 'They will usually stalk for quite brief periods of time. And I say usually, because again, there's always these caveats, human beings are very diverse, which is great. So when we try to categorize, there's always going to be people that don't fit the typologies. 'And it's not that the people are wrong or the typologies are wrong, you know, it's we've got to just keep that open mind all the time. So they will usually stalk for brief periods. Sometimes they have an insensitivity, I guess, to sort of social cues or norms. 'They might have cognitive limitations, poor social skills, intellectual disability, you know, all sorts of things that would make them come across quite forthright, you know, quite clumsy, or, you know, quite insensitive to other people's perspectives on the situation and whether they want a date or not.' She added: 'The resentful stalker typology is where stalking arises when they feel as though they've been mistreated or they've been victimized in some way, there's been an injustice or a humiliation. 'Victims, usually strangers or acquaintances who are seen to have mistreated that person. It can arise out of some kind of serious mental illness again, so that person might be quite paranoid at times, and uses stalking as a way of getting back at the victim.' In 2020, popular family vloggers Myka and James Stauffer made a shocking announcement that would capture headlines across the world and eventually end their successful careers as influencers. They had decided to 'rehome' their four-year-old autistic son, Huxley, nearly three years after they adopted him from China - due to difficulties in meeting his special needs. The youngster - who has since been renamed - had been the star of many of their parenting and lifestyle videos on YouTube and Instagram before suddenly disappearing from their posts. Their one million followers quickly started to question the child's absence - and after months of fans wondering what happened to Huxley, Myka and James shared a family 'update' on their YouTube channel. They revealed how their adopted son has a new 'forever family' that is better equipped to take on his special needs. The surprising confession prompted swift and widespread backlash, with many critics accusing the parents-of-five, based in Columbus, Ohio, of adopting the child as a stunt to secure more viewers. However, defending their decision in the final Instagram post she would make before fleeing the spotlight, Myka insisted 'we did not adopt a child to gain wealth' but called herself 'naive' and not 'fully equipped' to deal with the challenge. The uproar has now been revisited in a HBO docuseries An Update on Our Family, which explores the couple's fall from grace and includes clips from Myka's now-deleted YouTube videos, as well as diving into the family vlogging industry. In 2020, popular family vloggers Myka and James Stauffer (pictured with their children) made a shocking announcement that would capture headlines across the world and eventually end their successful careers as influencers Between 2016 and 2020, Myka and James had extensively chronicled the journey of welcoming Huxley into their home - including choosing him, raising money and the day he arrived. In a YouTube video posted before the adoption, she told viewers 'my child is not returnable' and that they 'would love' the youngster, 'no matter what state' he came to them in - making what happened later even more shocking. While the Stauffers were already popular online, their decision to adopt brought them a new era of success, and their adoption video of Huxley was watched by more than five million people. Moments such as his first Christmas with the family, bonding with his new siblings, and family days out were all shared online. But soon their adopted son started vanishing from their social media pages - and their followers quickly started asking why, prompting Myka and James to confess in May 2020 that they were 'rehoming' Huxley in their tearful update video. 'With international adoption, sometimes there are unknowns and things that are not transparent on files,' James said. 'Once Huxley came home, there was a lot more special needs that we weren't aware of, and that we were not told.' They had decided to 'rehome' their four-year-old autistic son, Huxley, nearly three years after they adopted him from China - due to difficulties in meeting his special needs They revealed how their adopted son has a new 'forever family' that is better equipped to take on his special needs Myka added that an adoption agency had helped place Huxley with his 'forever family'; authorities later confirmed that the child is 'happy' in his new home and already calls his new mother 'momma'. 'He's thriving, he's doing really well, and his new mommy has medical, professional training,' said Myka, who shares four other children ((daughters Kova and Jaka, and sons Radley and Onyx) with James. Myka stressed that they love Huxley; they just realised they weren't able to give him what he needs. 'There's not an ounce of our body that doesn't love Huxley with all of our being,' she said as her eyes welled up with tears. 'There wasn't a minute that I didn't try our hardest and I think what [James] is trying to say is that after multiple assessments, after multiple evaluations, numerous medical professionals have felt that he needed a different fit [for] his medical needs. He needed more.' The influencer said 'the last couple months have been the hardest thing [she] could have ever imagined.' 'Do I feel like a failure as a mom? Like, 500 per cent,' she admitted before the couple ended their emotional video with a plea for fans to have 'grace' with them during this difficult time. 'We are still struggling,' she said. 'We are going to be heartbroken for a very long time.' They had decided to 'rehome' their four-year-old autistic son, Huxley, nearly three years after they adopted him from China - due to difficulties in meeting his special needs Myka featured Huxley on her YouTube channel and social media pages until early 2020 But the backlash was swift, with many critics accusing the couple of adopting Huxley as a stunt to gain viewers. 'She adopted a child for views and then got rid of him and treated him like a brand deal,' one person wrote, another added: 'You adopted him solely for the attention it would give you and now you're giving him away. Unbelievable. 'I never watched that Myka Stauffer youtube mom, but I am RAGING over the fact that they rehomed their adopted special needs son,' someone else chimed in. Myka and James' bombshell admission cost her a partnership with Kate Hudson's sportswear company Fabletics as well as partnerships with Playtex Baby, Barbie, and Suave. In June 2020, Myka finally addressed the 'uproar', writing in her final Instagram post: 'This decision has caused so many people heart break and I'm sorry for letting down so many women that looked up to me as a mother.' The parent - who had over 715,000 YouTube subscribers before the scandal saw her following drop by thousands - started off by saying she took 'full responsibility' for 'all of the hurt' her actions had caused. 'I'm sorry for the confusion, and pain I have caused, and I am sorry for not being able to tell more of my story from the beginning,' she wrote. After the announcement of their decision to rehome Huxley in May 2020 and the influx of hate that followed, the Stauffers swiftly left YouTube and their channel was deleted While they were already popular online, the adoption brought them a new era of success, and their adoption video of Huxley was watched by more than five million people 'I could have never anticipated the incidents which occurred on a private level to ever have happened, and I was trying my best to navigate the hardest thing I have ever been through.' The Ohio-based vlogger admitted she was in over her head when she adopted Huxley, calling herself 'naive' about adopting and not 'fully equipped' to deal with the challenge. She said: 'I apologize for being so naive when I started the adoption process, I was not selective or fully equipped or prepared. 'I received one day of watching at home online video training and gained my Hague adoption certification which was required by my accredited adoption agency. For me, I needed more training. 'I can't say I wish this never happened because I'm still so glad Huxley is here and getting all of the help he needs,' Myka continued. 'I also know that even though he is happier in his new home and doing better that he still experienced trauma and I'm sorry, no adoptee deserves any more trauma.' Myka said her desire to help a child made her act rashly, admitting: 'I wanted to help so bad I was willing to bring home any child that needed me. For this, I was naive, foolish, and arrogant. 'I wish so bad I would have been more prepared and done more. I wish the decision to disrupt never had to be made. Four years later, the viral scandal is being revisited in a new docuseries called An Update on Our Family, which explores the couple's fall from grace 'Adoption and all special needs are amazing and I have a ton of respect for every adoptee, adoption parent, and special needs parent. I look up to you in a million ways. And I'm sorry for hurting the community in any way.' Myka also 'debunked' rumours she adopted Huxley 'to gain wealth,' explaining: 'While we did receive a small portion of money from videos featuring Huxley and his journey, every penny and much more went back into his care. 'Getting Huxley the care and services he needed was very expensive and we made sure he got every service, and resource we could possibly find.' She also told followers that she and her husband 'are not under any type of investigation.' The Delaware County Sheriff's Office were reportedly looking into Huxley's whereabouts the month prior after receiving 'several inquiries.' They later said the boy was 'not missing' and the 'proper adoption process' was taking place. Myka went on: 'I'm hoping to share more from my side of the story soon. And lastly I'm so sorry for letting you down. I also want to mention that moms need a safe place to ask for help when they are struggling. No questions asked.' She finished by calling rehoming Huxley 'the right decision'. She did not elaborate on where Huxley had gone, nor did she explain the process by which the child was matched with, and handed over to his new family. 'We love Huxley and know that this was the right decision for him and his future. Praying that Huxley only has the best future in the entire world,' said the mother. In over her head: The Ohio-based vlogger admitted she was in over her head when she adopted Huxley, calling herself 'naive' about adopting and not 'fully equipped' to deal with the challenge Myka had previously stated that the child has autism and a brain trauma, and required a lot of specialised care. One of Myka's last photos featuring her adopted son was posted on February 16 2020, and in the caption, she opened up about how difficult it was to care for his special needs. 'We have hard days, lots of them. I wish autism and adoption trauma had a manual to direct you through it all,' she wrote. In a since-deleted comment posted on social media, Myka went on to claim that 'multiple scary things happened inside the home towards our other children', suggesting that this was one of the key reasons behind their decision to give up Huxley. 'We would never just give up a child with special needs, this is a personal matter to Hux it had nothing to do with he just had Autism,' she wrote. 'Multiple scary things happened inside the home towards our other children, and if these events happened with one of my biological kids, after all the help and after the behaviors we witnessed sadly we would have no other choice then to seek help and get their needs met.' The mother went on to insist that rehoming Huxley was what was best for him and something he wanted. 'Huxley wanted this descion [sic] 100% we saw that in family time with other poeple [sic], he constantly chose them and signed with and showed tons of emotion to show us and let us know he wanted this,' she explained. 'Huxley never had a say in his adoption, and he needed more help and also wanted this and we know that 100%.' Good intentions: Myka also 'debunked' rumors she adopted Huxley 'to gain wealth,' explaining: 'While we did receive a small portion of money from videos featuring Huxley and his journey, every penny and much more went back into his care' The couple's lawyers, Thomas Taneff and Taylor Sayers, told People that Myka and James 'are very caring parents that would do anything for their children,' but 'this was the best decision for Huxley.' They explained that the couple had consulted multiple healthcare and education professionals since his adoption and were advised 'it might be best for Huxley to be placed with another family.' 'This is devastating news for any parent. Our clients came to the difficult determination to follow the advice of the medical professionals,' they said. 'To be clear this did NOT include any considerations for placement in the foster system, but rather to hand-select a family who is equipped to handle Huxleys needs. 'They were forced to make a difficult decision, but it is in fact, the right and loving thing to do for this child. 'We have advised our clients not to say anything further at this time, but it is likely they will share more when the time is appropriate for them and all involved,' the attorneys' added. Following the intense backlash, the Stauffers largely abandoned the limelight, with all of their YouTube videos across both channels deleted. Myka's Instagram account is still available for fans to view but the last post is the apology she shared in 2020. Her husband James' 'Stauffer Garage' YouTube channel remains active but with no family content. The channel is focused on car flipping, detailing, and cleaning. Aside from this, the Stauffer couple, who have four biological children, have completely disappeared from the internet - Myka first set up her YouTube channel in 2014. Their story is now being revisited in new docuseries, An Update On Our Family, which aired last week, and gained its name from the well-known video that was posted by the Stauffer's to announce they had rehomed Huxley. In the trailer, other vloggers discuss what happened, including the events leading up to the child's disapparance from their YouTube channel and how much money family YouTubers can make by posting about their kids online Its description reads: 'Myka and James Stauffer were the picture of the 21st century American Dream: happy marriage, beautiful kids, and a self-built YouTube vlogging empire. 'At the center of it all was Huxley, an adorable young boy they adopted from China. Huxley was more than just their star he was their son. Until one day, he wasnt. 'A provocative three-part series, An Update On Our Family exposes the hidden-in-plain-sight, unregulated family vlogging industry.' Fish and chips with Nigel Farage, a sparkling gold Trump jacket which someone immediately offered to buy off my back for double the price and a crazy rickshaw blaring out The Village People's classic hit (and President Trump's unofficial theme tune) 'YMCA'. You honestly couldn't have made any of it up. While millions of words have been written this week about the inauguration of Donald Trump as America's 47th president, most have been carefully-crafted to suit an agenda or sum up the 'grand occasion.' What you haven't seen is the fun and chaos behind the scenes and what it really is like trying to navigate balls and events in Washington DC in sub zero temperatures and snow flurries, wearing heels and a ballgown on endlessly gridlocked streets. I've been to some big events in my time but now that I'm safely back at home in the UK, looking back on my crazy four days as a VIP guest at Trump's inauguration seems like a mad fever dream. I've made lots of friends in Trump's MAGA world and have spent many weekends at his home in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, so it was a no brainer to me that I had to be there for his inauguration in the US capital this week. What people don't realize it that this isn't just one moment captured on film as a new president is sworn in. It's a whole weekend of parties and celebrations and, like all things American, it's go big or go home. I arrived in a freezing cold Washington DC late Friday and immediately went straight to Reform leader Nigel Farage's party in the penthouse at the five-star Hay Adams hotel. Lady Victoria Harvey, 48, has revealed behind the scenes details of Donald Trump's inauguration (pictured with Ted Cruz) Nigel has become something of a legend in Washington and so everyone wanted to be there to sample his famed British menu, which was offering everything from traditional fish and chips to sausage rolls - with a side dollop of Nigel's infectious good humour. One of the first people I bumped into was former Prime Minister Liz Truss. Last time I met her was at a party thrown by the Spectator magazine in London this summer and, it has to be said, at that event she was reserved and rather gloomy. But at Farage's party she was on great fun, cracking jokes and clearly thrilled to be in DC where it was all happening. I chatted to Steve Bannon, one of the most powerful men in Trump's universe, a key advisor who is said to be one of the few people Trump ALWAYS picks up the phone for. When I went over to introduce myself I was stunned when he said: 'I know exactly who you are. I've seen you on television.' One of the first people Victoria bumped into at Nigel Farage's party was Liz Truss (pictured right) Victoria (pictured right) is seen with Nancy Prall (pictured centre) and Nigel Farage (pictured left) Victoria has made plenty of friends in Trump's MAGA world and has spent weekends at his home in Mar-a-Lago, Florida At at the center of it all was Nigel, holding court in his inimitable way, chatting to everyone and playing the perfect host. From the people I spoke to there is no doubt in my mind that Nigel will be one of the key conduits between the Trump administration and the UK government. Most people in DC have either never heard of Sir Keir Starmer or simply don't care about him. Within the MAGA world, Nigel and allies like Boris (Johnson) and Liz Truss are all that matter. They are the people Trump trusts, they were loyal to him through thick and thin and there's no doubt he will remain loyal to them. But back to the partying. After the Farage shindig it was on to a super fancy Michelin-starred meal at El Cielo, one of those meals where every course is tiny and fantastic and takes forever. We managed to bolt down ten courses in record time before heading off to the Crypto Ball at the Andrew Mellon auditorium to watch Snoop Dogg perform. Saturday was a blur. I went to the Hispanic Ball where I watched Argentine President Javier Milei receive a rock star's welcome. This wonderfully bouffanted character has managed to take Argentina's economy into the black for the first time in decades but it is his larger than life personality which has wowed the Trump crowd. When he came into the room there were cheers and whoops. Victoria put on a dashing display in a white sequined dress and fur coat (pictured with Timothy Drake) The 48-year-old attended multiple glamorous parties offering luxury foods throughout her time in Washington DC Victoria donned a sophisticated black dress from Gulafer Atas to the Liberty Ball in Washington DC The Liberty Ball had a photo booth where attendees could pose in a McDonalds fast food drive through window Simply navigating around DC was one of the biggest challenges. I've been to all sorts of major events and this made things like the Oscars or the Monaco Grand Prix look like a walk in the park. The Secret Service had streets blocked off for miles around the White House and Capitol building. It was impossible to get an Uber and, when I did, my hapless driver spent an hour driving around in circles without a clue where he was going. There are security lines for everything. One kind gentleman took pity on me as he saw me turning blue in the cold - as I yomped down a snowy street towards another event - and gave me his umbrella, even though umbrellas were banned from functions because they could potentially be used as a weapon. At the check-in for the Trump rally at the Capital One Arena, I was told my 2,500 euro bag was 'too big.' I was almost in tears as there was no way I was going to hand it in, but then a security man told me to try a different line. I walked to a different security line with a female Secret Service agent in charge after seeing a woman checking in with her Birkin, and was whisked into the event, big bag and all, with no problem. Thank goodness for female Secret Service agents! Lady Victoria spent time with the American media executive, Steve Kevin Bannon, 71 (pictured right) Victoria kicked off the inauguration festivities at Nigel Farage's 'Stars and Stripes & The Union Jack' party Victoria got a selfie in front of Vivek Ramaswamy (pictured centre) and Javier Milei (pictured right) on stage Victoria, who is the daughter of the 6th Marquess of Bristol, received a VIP pass to the Liberty Ball Because so many plans had been changed at the last minute due to the terrible weather my friends and I spent a lot of time at the Waldorf Astoria hotel. This is the old Trump hotel, based in a beautiful historic converted Post Office on Pennsylvania Avenue and Ground Zero for Trumpers. I saw Don Jr. and most of Trump's family in there. Security was so tight you had to know someone on the inside and FaceTime with them live - in front of security guards - to be able to set foot inside the door. Don Jr's ex girlfriend Kimberly Guilfoyle was in there. People have spread gossip that there are 'issues' because she and Don Jr have split up. Meanwhile, she's been appointed the next US ambassador to Greece. She looked beautiful and happy and the family couldn't have been lovelier to her. On Sunday, there was a huge Trump rally at the Capital arena - I spent it in a VIP suite - but, again, it took forever to get there. But it was worth the pain of stomping through the snow. The only thing between Elon Musk, Donald Trump and I was a single camera man. I watched Kid Rock perform. One thing you realize early on is ditch the heels. The 48-year-old dined on an array of delightful snacks throughout the glitzy events in Washington DC The British socialite had a close up view of Donald and Melania Trump on stage of the glamorous event Victoria purchased a $300 gold sequined jacket in the gift shop at the Texas Ball with the writing 'Trump: The Golden Era' on the back I had my favorite Alexander McQueen black sneakers with me and ended up living in those. Most days I was walking seven to ten miles. In the snow and freezing cold. Every street had security barriers up. I saw giant Army Humvees parked on corners and even the occasional tank. Some enterprising locals set up bike pedal rickshaws to ferry people around. They cost $10 a minute. So people were spending hundreds of dollars just to be biked a few blocks. All the rickshaws were blasting out YMCA which just added to the Trumpy atmosphere. And I got to see the actual Village People twice - on Sunday at the pre-inauguration concert and again on Monday, inauguration night, at the Liberty Ball. On Sunday I also went to the Texas Ball. After all that walking I desperately needed some retail therapy. I found an amazing gold sequined jacket in the gift shop which should have cost $500 or so but it was my lucky night and I got it for $300. On the back it said: 'Trump: The Golden Era.' During his inauguration speech Trump said America is about to enter her Golden Era so that jacket became the star of the show wherever I went. It even ended up being featured on one of Trump's 'official' social media accounts. Pictured: Lady Victoria Hervey, 48, with a guest at Donald Trump's inauguration earlier this month There was a custom British station serving fish and chips with tartar sauce at one of the glitzy events Pictured: A tank parked on the streets of Washington DC during Donald Trump's inauguration festivities Lady Victoria got a close up glimpse of The White House during her stay in Washington DC One lady pulled out a wad of $100 bills and said she would pay double, triple, whatever I'd paid for it, she wanted it so badly. Monday, inauguration day, started with a 7am prayer breakfast at the Waldorf. The hotel had set up huge jumbotron screens in the lobby bar because so many of us who had tickets for the outside ceremony were unable to fit into the inside Capital rotunda once the plans changed. But nothing dampened the mood. There is such a great sense of hope and fun in Washington. Everyone has waited so long for this moment and people feel like they bonded during the trauma of what Trump has been put through for the past few years. He and First Lady Melania attended three balls on inauguration night. I went to the Liberty Ball, the second one. Watching him and Melania walk out for their first time was breathtaking and gave me goosebumps. I felt privileged to be witnessing history in the making. The Liberty Ball had a photo booth where you could pose in a McDonalds fast food drive through window - like Trump did during one famous photo opportunity on the campaign trail. I did that and then went into the Ballroom just as he was walking out to 'Hail to the Chief' and shared his first dances with Melania to The Battle Hymn of the Republic followed by Unchained Melody. Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha joined in as did many of the Trump family members. It was a glorious sight and one that will live with me forever. I shall always treasure my photographs and videos of my time in DC - even though I'm only just now getting the feeling back in my frozen toes. When it comes to style, we are all inspired by what we see; whether it be a well-dressed celebrity, a blow-your-mind catwalk presentation or even a fashionable passerby. As fashion editors, we're moved by all of the above, and then some. We're exposed to under-the-radar labels; we get a first-hand look at collections months before they hit stores; we attend VIP events; we're tapped into brands with chic-yet-cheap offerings and we shop a lot. To share our knowledge, FEMAIL brings you Style Swoon, a weekly series of the latest, greatest and on the verge. We hope this series will serve as a buying guide and point of inspiration for all. This week's roundup starts with global icon, Kate Moss. Moss stars in Elisabetta Franchi's spring/summer 2025 campaign and looks unreal. The images were taken by photographic duo Luigi & lango. Kate Moss stuns in Elisabetta Franchi's spring/summer 2025 campaign taken by photographic duo Luigi & lango The iconic supermodel dons a variety of sharp looks while striking seductive poses in a series of black-and-white photos for the Italian label. This captivating imagery embodies the timeless elegance and boldness that are hallmarks of Elisabetta Franchi's aesthetic, as well as the star's undeniable charm and magnetism. Moss's versatility and unique beauty have made her a favorite of designers for decades. 'Kate Moss, a style icon and the muse for our Spring-Summer 2025 campaign, embodies a unique balance of sensuality and strength, refinement, and audacity, shared Elisabetta. 'The collection explores the energy of contrasts: black and white, light and shadow, blending to narrate the complexity of the female world, with Kate perfectly echoing this tension between opposites.' The iconic supermodel dons a variety of all black looks while striking seductive poses in a series of black-and-white photos for the Italian label 'Kate Moss, a style icon and the muse for our Spring-Summer 2025 campaign, embodies a unique balance of sensuality and strength, refinement, and audacity, shared Elisabetta Skinny jean revival Believe it or not, skinny jeans are back! FRAME and Alix Earle say so. The California-based label has teamed up with the social media sensation for an exclusive co-branded collaboration. The FRAME x Alix Earle collab includes a high-rise, body-hugging skinny jean dubbed 'The Alix' available in a classic blue wash ($128) and sleek black coated color way ($148). FRAME has teamed up with social media sensation Alix Earle for an exclusive co-branded collaboration 'Having The Alix skinny jean available at FRAME feels like a major milestone moment for me,' share Alix. 'Ive secretly kept a pair in my closet for years, and when I first met with Erik (Torstensson) in 2023 to discuss a potential FRAME collaboration, I couldnt resist pitching the idea of bringing this classic (although some might say controversial) wardrobe staple back. 'Partnering with FRAME to revive the skinny jean has been such a fun process because, when it comes to personal style, Im all for making or breaking the rules in fashion. The Alix is everything I envisionedcomfortable, stylish, and crafted with the amazing quality Frame is known for. I cant wait to see how everyone styles The Alix skinny jean by FRAME.' The FRAME x Alix Earle collab includes a high-rise, body-hugging skinny jean dubbed 'The Alix' Alix is best known for her engaging presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her candid discussions about personal struggles resonated with many and contributed to her popularity. 'The Alix' can be found at FRAME stores globally and on the FRAME website. From January 23rd to March 31st 2025, FRAME & Alix Earle will donate a portion of net sales from in-store and web sales from the Alix Jean to Greater LA Habitat for Humanity to support recovery efforts for the LA fires. 'Partnering with FRAME to revive the skinny jean has been such a fun process because, when it comes to personal style, Im all for making or breaking the rules in fashion,' said Alex Newness worthy of a queen This week, New York-based label LAPOINTE's spring collection inspired by Sally LaPointes muse, Oprah Winfrey, dropped. In line with the LAPOINTE aesthetic and ethos, the spring collection features bold, statement-making pieces for the woman who dresses for herself and no one else. The collection includes new silhouettes and bestselling classics in seasonal colors and textures. This week, New York-based label LAPOINTE's spring collection inspired by Sally LaPointes muse, Oprah Winfrey, dropped On January 17th, alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet opened its first-ever denim pop-up shop, called the Jean Bar, located adjacent to its lower Madison Avenue store, in New York City Run don't walk to the latest jean bar On January 17th, alice + olivia by Stacey Bendet opened its first-ever denim pop-up shop, called the Jean Bar, located adjacent to its lower Madison Avenue store, in New York City. In true alice + olivia fashion, the store is wrapped in denim, showcasing the brand's playful creativity and attention to detail. The pop-up features the latest denim collections and exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces that have never been produced for the market, such as Charlie XCX's favorite crystal embellished jeans in a new color way. The pop-up features the latest denim collections and exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces that have never been produced for the market, such as Charlie XCX's favorite crystal embellished jeans in a new color way In true alice + olivia fashion, the store is wrapped in denim, showcasing the brand's playful creativity and attention to detail In addition to showcasing new products, the pop-up will host unique weekend activations, including denim customization styling workshops. Activities such as patchwork, embroidery, bedazzling will be available every weekend for creating custom denim looks. Additional activations will include matcha carts, hot chocolate, and more NYC vendors throughout the duration of the popup. The pop-up will remain open until April 30th and promises to be an exciting destination for denim lovers and fashion enthusiasts alike. In addition to showcasing new products, the pop-up will host unique weekend activations, including denim customization styling workshops Activities such as patchwork, embroidery, bedazzling will be available every weekend for creating custom denim looks 'We are so excited to unveil our first-ever pop-up Jean Bar on Madison Avenue,' said Stacey Bendet, CEO and founder of alice+ olivia. 'Jean Bar is an interactive denim decorating experience including custom embroidery and exclusive design workshops that let customers explore both creativity and fashion as art. I can't wait for you to join us in this immersive fashion experience!' "I started this business based on pants, so I am so excited to do something creative with our product and retail space! This pop-up is all about making fashion custom and fun!" says Stacey Bendet, CEO and Creative Director of alice + olivia TilePix x Jonathan Adler: The Jet Set Collection launched on Monday, January 13th Art for the non-committal TilePix x Jonathan Adler: The Jet Set Collection launched on Monday, January 13th. The famed interior decorator wanted to create a capsule that brings a piece of world travel into your homeno matter where youve been or want to go. As part of the collection Jonathan brings back some new additions to his popular druggist line, which was a huge hit with the TilePix x Jonathan Adler first collection. TilePix products feature a magnetic mounting system that allows you to easily move your frames around without damaging walls. As Jonathan says, this is an homage to all the walls he has ruined throughout his career. The famed interior decorator wanted to create a capsule that brings a piece of world travel into your homeno matter where youve been or want to go TilePix products feature a magnetic mounting system that allows you to easily move your frames around without damaging walls App for the shoe lover Dolce Vita launched a game changing app for shoppers and fans of the brand. The app allows users to have access to limited-edition items, as well as early access to new products, behind-the-scenes content, and special member-only discounts. Dolce Vita has launched a game changing app for shoppers and fans of the brand Perks for loyalty members, including free shipping on orders over $100, plus curated Spotify playlists. Through the platform, the New York-based label hopes to connect more deeply with their community as they continue to grow. A mother has lamented being repeatedly asked whether her one-year-old daughter is biologically hers - because they have starkly different features. Morgan Hoffman, 31, and her husband Matt, 33, from Florida in the US, welcomed their daughter Brooklyn in July 2023. Ms Hoffman was surprised to see that Brooklyn inherited all of her husband's lighter features - rather then her own, darker attributes. Where the mother has dark skin and near-black, curly hair, little Brooklyn was born with lighter, olive-toned skin and medium brown locks. The 19-month-old also has dark blue eyes - the same as her father's. This has led to strangers believing that Ms Hoffman is not the tot's biological mother. The couple, from Spring Hill, said that strangers they meet are often shocked to hear that Brooklyn is Ms Hoffman's biological daughter. Morgan Hoffman, 31, and her husband Matt, 33, from Florida in the US, welcomed their daughter Brooklyn in July 2023 Morgan Hoffman was surprised to see that Brooklyn inherited all of her husband's lighter features - rather then her own, darker attributes The mother remembers once being asked by a stranger: 'Is she yours?' She said: 'When Brooklyn was a few weeks old, I had a lady come up to me at a store. She said "She's beautiful. Is she yours?" 'When I said yes, she looked shocked, and I also had a man at the grocery store a few weeks ago ask if Brooklyn was my daughter. 'It was very random and odd to hear.' Where the mother has dark skin and near-black, curly hair, little Brooklyn was born with lighter, olive-toned skin and medium brown locks King Charles dressed in his namesake tartan in a new photograph shared by Buckingham Palace to mark tonight's Burns Night celebrations. The monarch sports the King Charles III tartan kilt in the newly released photograph, which was taken last autumn in the library of Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The image was shared ahead of Burns Night, a Scottish celebration of the life of poet Robert Burns which is held annually on 25 January. With it, the King wished those celebrating a 'very happy Burns Night tonight'. It is reminiscent of another photograph taken of King Charles for his 18th birthday in 1966, in which the then-Prince of Wales wore a kilt made from Balmoral tartan. In the older photograph, a young Charles stands in the library of Balmoral Castle, learning on a red leather chair. But in today's photograph, taken by Millie Pilkington, Charles wears a kilt made from King Charles III tartan - a green, red and navy fabric designed by The Scottish Tartans Authority in September 2023. He leans on a stack of ornate books inside the library, his colourful tie matching the three colours of the tartan, and a thumb tucked in his waistcoat pocket. King Charles dressed in his namesake tartan in a new photograph shared by Buckingham Palace to mark tonight's Burns Night celebrations The new photograph is reminiscent of another photograph taken of King Charles for his 18th birthday in 1966, in which the then-Prince of Wales wore a kilt made from Balmoral tartan The tartan is intended for the use of King Charles only, and was designed 'in recognition of His Majesty's strong support in preserving the culture and traditions of Highland Dress and Scottish Tartans'. The design is based on the Balmoral tartan sett, which dates back to 1850. The Scottish Register of Tartans website notes that the cloth was first woven in 100% Scottish wool by Lochcarron of Scotland in Selkirk. It features 'central stripe motif (one broad and two narrow), a feature of Royal tartans previously worn by His Majesty including the Duke of Rothesay, Duke of Rothesay Hunting & Lord of the Isles Hunting tartans'. The King has an enduring love of Scotland, spending many summers at Balmoral with the royal family, and often wears kilts when visiting the nation for engagements. Earlier this month, Charles sent a message of heartfelt congratulations to the people of Glasgow, praising the city for its rich culture and centuries of resilience as it celebrated its 850th anniversary. The new portrait was taken by Dorset-based Millie Pilkington, who previously captured the private wedding photographs for the then-Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding in April 2011. Millie Pilkington's private portrait of William and Kate on their wedding day in 2011 Millie took this photograph of King Charles and Queen Camilla, which was released on Friday 24 May Prince William, 42, and Kate Middleton, 43, married at Westminster Abbey in 2011, with around 37 million people watching in the UK and while official photographs were released after the big day, Millie was chosen to take more intimate shots for their private wedding album. And Millie, described as 'one of the UKs most respected and accomplished portrait photographers' on her website, turns out to be the woman behind a whole host of royal images. Most recently, the photographer, who specialises in children and family, took a smiling picture of King Charles and Queen Camilla. This photograph of Prince William with his three children was taken to mark Father's Day in 2023 Released on Friday 24 May, the image accompanied Charles's encouraging health update announcing that the King would be returning to some of his public duties after undergoing cancer treatment. Millie is open about the enjoyment she gets from working with the royal family. Speaking to The Gold Edition in April 2023 she explained that, rather than finding the royals intimidating, she considers them to be 'more humble, kind, thoughtful and approachable' than a lot of people who lack their titles. Millie has also taken photographs of William and Kate's three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5. Zara Tindall wrapped up warm in a faux fur lined coat as she arrived to open the Retraining of Racehorses Awards at Cheltenham Racecourse this afternoon. The daughter of Princess Anne, 43, was without her husband Mike and their three children for her outing on Saturday, which will see her host the annual RoR Awards. Zara was dressed for the occasion in a grey, patterned coat which featured glittering gold buttons and a faux fur trim on the collar and sleeves. She paired her statement piece with knee-high black boots and a small burgundy handbag, both by Fairfax & Favor, and kept the winter sun away with a pair of stylish sunglasses. The mother-of-three kept her blonde hair pinned back for the occasion, accessorising with a burgundy, twisted headband and a pair of sleek black gloves. Zara was at Cheltenham Racecourse to open the Retraining of Racehorses Awards, which are held annually to 'celebrate the incredible versatility of former racehorses'. The event, held on Festival Trials Day, features two prestigious awards: The Jockey Club Horse of the Year Award and The Peter O'Sullevan Community Impact Award. There will also be recognition for winners of the RoR Elite Series across six equestrian disciplines. Zara Tindall wrapped up warm in a faux fur lined coat as she arrived to open the Retraining of Racehorses Awards at Cheltenham Racecourse this afternoon The RoR website says: 'We are delighted to announce that RoR Patron, Zara Tindall, will be opening the RoR Awards 2025. 'This prestigious event will be an unforgettable celebration as we mark our 25th anniversary, honouring the achievements of former racehorses and the individuals who champion them.' Zara's solo outing comes as the royal revealed why Australia feels like her 'home away from home', as she enjoyed her annual trip to the Gold Coast earlier this month. With her husband Mike Tindall, Princess Anne's daughter had travelled Down Under to attend Magic Millions, which has become a yearly tradition for the royal couple. The duo - who have been married for 13 years - are brand ambassadors for the racehorse auction house Magic Millions, a deal that reportedly earns them 125,000 every year. As part of their work with the company, the Kings niece, and the former rugby star travel to Australia to promote the races. The daughter of Princess Anne , 43, was without her husband Mike and their three children for her outing on Saturday, which will see her host the annual RoR Awards She paired her statement piece with knee-high black boots and a small burgundy handbag, and kept the winter sun away with a pair of stylish sunglasses Zara was dressed for the occasion in a grey, patterned coat which featured glittering gold buttons and a faux fur trim on the collar and sleeves Talking to Hello, Zara, 43, explained: 'We have always loved Australia, and it is like a home from home for us... although the Magic Millions carnival is busy...we couldn't ask for a better way to start the year'. During the trip, Zara took part in a friendly horse race alongside famous polo player and close friend of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Nachos Figueras, though Mike opted out of the race, instead leaving it 'to the experts'. Talking to the publication, Zara explained that she doesn't just love the thrill of the race meeting, but also Australia's warm weather, saying: '[We love] coming out of the cold winter and into the warm heat, and the incredible water temperatures.' While the couple's children - Mia, 10, Lena, six, and Lucas, three, did not accompany heir parents abroad, Zara explained that they have travelled to Australia before, and similarly love the country. Elon Musk's sister's erotic movie streaming platform has lost hundreds of subscribers since he was accused of doing a 'nazi salute' at Donald Trump's inauguration parade. The billionaire Tesla founder, 53, came under fire after he was seen using a gesture that some claimed was similar to Adolph Hitler's famous move. Now, his mom, Maye Musk, has revealed that the entire family has been affected by the controversy. She took to X, formerly Twitter, to explain that Elon's younger sister, Tosca Musk, 50, had taken a hit to her company Passionflix amid his ongoing scrutiny. 'Unfortunately @ToscaMusk s movie streaming platform is suffering,' she wrote. 'On Facebook, there is continuous hate for @PassionFlix as subscribers should not support a Nazi family. 'Hundreds have canceled their subscriptions. They actually believe the [media that says it was a Nazi salute]. 'For me, I receive numerous USA and European media interviews, which I delete. Legacy media needs to die quicker.' Elon Musk 's sister's erotic movie streaming platform has lost hundreds of subscribers since he was accused of doing a 'nazi salute' at Donald Trump 's inauguration parade The billionaire Tesla founder, 53, came under fire after he was seen using a gesture that some claimed was similar to Adolph Hitler's famous move She replied to a message that Elon had posted in which he claimed that 'legacy media' was 'trying to cancel him.' Now, his mom, Maye Musk, has revealed that the entire family has been affected by the controversy. She and Tosca are seen at the inauguration 'It was astonishing how insanely hard legacy media tried to cancel me for saying my heart goes out to you and moving my hand from my heart to the audience,' he scathed. 'In the end, this deception will just be another nail in the coffin of legacy media.' Passionflix was co-founded by Tosca in 2017 and is a production company and streaming site dedicated to 'turning your favorite romance novels into movies and series,' per its website. Tosca previously explained in an interview that the site's main goal is to 'show sex in a positive way from a female perspective.' Elon's sister, who has mostly stayed out of the spotlight, attended the inauguration and the balls that followed in Washington, D.C., on Monday with her mother. The mother and daughter also joined a dinner the previous night to celebrate the new president. Elon and Tosca also have a brother, Kimbal, 52, who is a restaurateur who is trying to find a solution to America's obesity crisis. She took to X, formerly Twitter , to explain that Elon's younger sister, Tosca Musk, 50, had taken a hit to her company Passionflix amid his ongoing scrutiny She replied to a message that Elon had posted in which he claimed that 'legacy media' was 'trying to cancel him' During the parade following Donald's swear-in at the 47th President of the United States, Elon put his hand over his heart, then shot his hand out to wave to the crowd. Immediately, liberals went into meltdowns over the movement, claiming it was a nazi salute, while conservatives rushed to his defense. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu weighed in, writing in an X post on that the billionaire mogul was 'is being falsely smeared.' 'Elon is a great friend of Israel,' Benjamin wrote of the South African native. 'He visited Israel after the October 7 massacre in which Hamas terrorists committed the worst atrocity against the Jewish people since the Holocaust.' 'He has since repeatedly and forcefully supported Israel's right to defend itself against genocidal terrorists and regimes who seek to annihilate the one and only Jewish state,' the PM concluded. Elon's father also defended the gesture during an interview with NewsNation host Chris Como. Asked about the salute, Errol Musk said: 'It's absolute nonsense, it's absolute rubbish. Rubbish.' Passionflix was co-founded by Tosca in 2017 and is a production company and streaming site dedicated to 'turning your favorite romance novels into movies and series,' per its website Tosca (seen with her siblings) previously explained in an interview that the site's main goal is to 'show sex in a positive way from a female perspective' 'It's a universal salute, or, as you said, you know, throwing his heart out, I suppose, yes, that's a universal thing for thousands of years. So that's rubbish. That's a rubbish,' he repeated. Elon responded to the backlash in a series of posts to X. In one, he made light of the names of Adolf Hitler's Deputy Fuhrer Rudolf Hess; Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels; Reichstag President Hermann Goring; and Schutzstaffel (SS) Commander Heinrich Himmler. 'Don't say Hess to Nazi accusations! Some people will Goebbels anything down! Stop Goring your enemies! His pronouns would've been He/Himmler!' he wrote. 'Bet you did nazi that coming,' he added in the final pun. In another, he said liberals are showing their hypocrisy with their recent attacks against him claiming they cannot support Hamas terrorists operating out of Gaza while also slamming him for supposedly using a Nazi salute. 'The radical leftists are really upset that they had to take time out of their busy day praising Hamas to call me a Nazi,' said the SpaceX CEO. Just 90 minutes of screen time a day is enough to affect childrens' reading and writing ability and even increase the risk of behavioural problems, a study has revealed. Researchers at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand tracked more than 6,000 two to eight year-olds to investigate the consequences of looking at screens for more than an hour daily. This is the maximum amount recommended by health chiefs however most children in the UK spend more than two hours a day glued to devices. In fact, one in five already own a smartphone by the age of two, according to the online regulator Ofcom, the Telegraph reported. The peer-reviewed research, published in the journal Developmental Psychology, collected data through interviews with parents and behavioral assessments of children when they were two, four and a half, and eight years old. Parents were asked how long their children spent doing 'unproductive' activities using screens like watching television and the amount of time spent using devices for homework. Researchers found that children aged four and eight and a half, who spent more than 1.5 hours in front of a screen, suffered educationally, regardless of the nature of the activity. Just 90 minutes of screen time a day is enough to give children weaker language skills and behavioural problems, researchers found These children had below average vocabulary, communication, writing, numeracy, and letter fluency. Plus, they were more likely to play alone and less liked by other children. The longer the screen time the worse off they were, with children who spend longer than 2.5 hours a day even more likely to experience language and behaviour problems. On the other hand, children with less than an hour a day of screen time had higher education levels, such as better language skills and were more sociable. The study authors suggested that the impact of too much screen time was significant enough to mean the child was more likely to be in the bottom third of their class at school. Teachers have reported seeing more children coming into school at age five with lower-than-average language and social skills, which researchers believe is the result of too much screen time. 'Screen time during early childhood is predictive of the skills that children have on arrival to school, and the dramatic rise in screen use over recent years may partially explain why school readiness has been declining over recent years,' researchers said. The impact on education is thought to be worse than any health risks of being sedentary as a result of their screen time, which could cause children to be obese or be frequently ill. Experts have long raised the alarm over the influence of screen time on child development. One 2024 Australian study found two-year-olds who spend large portions of time looking at screens were more likely to show autism-like symptoms by the age of 12. But the researchers, who tracked more than 5,000 kids, did acknowledge the paper was merely observational and could not prove causality. Other scientists also urged the public not to panic and said the study proves 'there is no actual evidence' linking screen time with autism. Guidelines set by World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends children under the age of two should have no screen time at all. Those between two and five should only should spend less than one hour a day at a screen. Yet, in the UK, neither the NHS nor the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have any detailed guidance for screen time among babies and toddlers. NICE recommend an upper limit of two hours per day for all children. The UK's Chief Medical Officer also suggests a 'precautionary approach' to using screen devices. Major supermarkets including Sainsbury's, Tesco, Morrisons, Lidl and Asda have failed hygiene inspections, MailOnline can reveal. Sixteen stores scored zero the worst possible rating. These include a Sainsbury's in Leyton, East London and a Morrison's down the road in nearby Chingford. MailOnline's interactive map names and shames every supermarket and corner shop that failed their latest inspection. It allows you to see whether your local is on the list. Food Standards Agency (FSA) data shows there are 287 supermarkets which are so dirty they failed their latest published food hygiene inspection. This, MailOnline can reveal, amounts to almost one in 40. The term covers corner shops and smaller convenience stores, as well as massive out-of-town supermarkets. Your browser does not support iframes. This Sainsbury's in Leyton, East London, pictured, received a zero food standards rating As did this Morrison's in nearby Chingford. A total of 16 stores across England, Wales and Northern Ireland received a zero food standards rating According to inspection data kept by the FSA, four of the worst offenders meaning they scored zero were in Birmingham. Brent and Plymouth had two each, as well as Waltham Forest home to the Leyton and Chingford stores. The remaining zero-rated stores were scattered across in Charnwood, Harrow, Hull City, Kingston-upon-Thames, Sandwell and Wigan. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, all venues serving food are rated on a scale between zero and five. Businesses which score two or below have not reached the minimum standards and at least 'some' improvement is necessary. Inspectors who visit such venues may find rotting food and rodent droppings or spot unsafe food storage habits. In Scotland, venues are graded on a binary pass/fail basis. Of the firms on the fail list outside of Scotland, MailOnline analysis of FSA data shows 127 received a rating of two. Food Standards Agency (FSA) data shows there are 287 supermarkets which are so dirty they failed their latest published food hygiene inspection. Pictured: Pound Bargains in Wigan which is rated zero Inspectors who visit venues rated below two may find rotting food and rodent droppings or spot unsafe food storage habits. Pictured: The site of M R Grocery in Loughborough which is rated zero Brent and Plymouth had two supermarkets that marked zero, as well as Waltham Forest. Pictured: The site of African Grocery Ltd in Plymouth which is rated zero A further 116 were scored one meaning major improvement is necessary and 16 received the lowest possible rating of zero, where 'urgent improvement is required'. The data was correct as of January 23, 2025. In Scotland, 28 businesses were rated as 'improvement required'. Local authorities are responsible for inspecting businesses in their area at least once every two years. This can include retailers, workplaces, schools, hospitals and even prisons. The information on the database can change on a daily basis. MailOnline's analysis was accurate as of January 23, 2025. Last December MailOnline showed how 50,000 firms serving food have never been inspected. Businesses which score two or below have not reached the minimum standards and at least 'some' improvement is necessary. Pictured: The site of Temmy African Superstore in Kingston-upon-Thames which is rated zero A further 160,000 had not been inspected in two years. Of the 50,000 firms that had never been inspected, 1,991 of them were bars, pubs or nightclubs. The FSA has called for increased investment by local authorities in their environmental health departments who carry out food standards inspections. Many local authorities have struggled to recruit sufficient qualified staff and have failed to carry out enough inspections. The FSA claims the inspection is a 'snapshot' of the standards of food hygiene. Ratings do not cover issues such as the quality of food, customer service, culinary skill, presentation or comfort. They concentrate on the handling of food, how it is stored and prepared. They also consider the cleanliness of the facilities and how food safety is managed. I've always enjoyed the festive season; mind you, every season tended to be festive for me, as before I was an invalid (just look at that word!) I was a wild one. But I didn't enjoy this one because last month, on Friday the 13th, I was taken to A&E in an ambulance and whisked into surgery for an emergency operation on an epidural abscess. Had I not finally caved in and admitted I wasn't tough enough to never, ever need medical attention, I would probably have lived for no longer than 48 hours. For about a week after the operation, everything was a beautiful blur due to the amount of superb drugs I'd been given before and after my spinal surgery ('It's like a five-star hotel here I don't ever want to come home!' I excitably, if inaccurately, messaged my husband from intensive care) but I gradually pieced my missing week together, albeit foggily. I had crawled from my flat at around 5pm, lain on the floor of my landing and cried, 'Help me! Please help me!' My lovely neighbours came out from all floors and called my husband, who arrived quickly, followed by an ambulance. I waited in A&E on a trolley for a while, had loads of tests and was then told that I needed an operation immediately. There would be a chance I wouldn't walk again but if I didn't have it, I would probably die. Julie Burchill says she is yet to find out if it is 'walkies or a wheelchair' for her The reputable Johns Hopkins Medicine website says this about my mysterious lodger, the epidural abscess: 'Typically, an epidural abscess is caused by a Staphylococcus aureus bacterial infection. It could also result from a fungus or other germ circulating in your body. Quite often, it forms in the space between the bones of your spine and the lining membrane of your spinal cord. An epidural abscess results in a pocket of pus that builds up and causes swelling. It can press against your bones and the membranes that protect your spinal cord and your brain. An epidural abscess needs to be treated right away. Much of the time, healthcare providers can't find the exact cause of the infection.' When I woke up from surgery to drain the infection from the spinal cord, even though I couldn't move from the shoulders down and was told that it was highly likely, due to damage to my spine, that I would never walk again, I was extremely pleased. I could move my hands and arms and I could see and I could think. I remembered my somewhat histrionic plea to the surgeon as I signed the papers before the op: 'If I can't move my hands or see or think, please don't resuscitate me if I can't write, I don't want to live.' Oooh, get you, Emily Bronte! I've never been in hospital except for having my tonsils out when I was a tot and for childbirth when I was in my 20s; it's such a novelty to finally experience the thing I've been paying tax towards all my life, which is perhaps why I so rarely get bored. It's like a cross between a hotel and prison. Surprisingly tasty free food. Free beds. Free wifi. Best of all, free nappies as many as one can get through. In my case that's quite a lot; a few too many laxatives and suppositories a week ago and I'm still living with the volcanic aftermath as are the poor nurses. Oh, the nurses! These remarkable women (and a few men) of all ages, from all continents and classes, have confirmed my belief that kindness is useless without toughness. They are hard as nails where it matters, and soft as a prayer when appropriate; they are, above all, professionals, learning a skill that can take them anywhere they want to go, especially with an ageing worldwide population from Korea to Kingston upon Thames. You can see the junior nurse always watchful as the senior nurse does her thing; you'll be less embarrassed, if you're ever in my position, by understanding that we in their care are their practice as well as their patients, living dolls who give them the opportunity to learn literally hands-on how to be good at what they do. When they are, their profession can take them anywhere; many of the part-timers here are 'travelling', especially the Australians. I've got my brain, my sense of humour, my shamelessness and my ability to make a living doing the thing I love; because of this, I still consider myself extremely lucky, says Julie Conversely, see the current TV commercials by certain Australian states, tempting our permanently rained-upon British nurses to move to a country where it's always summer. But as we have so many African and Indian and Filipino nurses leaving their poorer countries where they are much needed for our higher wages, we can't complain; especially me, as an extreme beneficiary of their ministrations. I'm of the school of thought that believes regret is useless and, in many ways, a kind of vanity, as brooding over what cannot be undone is to see ourselves as far more important than we are in the great scheme of things. Still, if I had to take one lesson from my bit of trouble, it would be that I wish I hadn't been so proud about being (I thought) healthy as a horse and therefore totally justified in swerving any kind of healthcare. How I mocked the Worried Well! How I boasted about the three times I'd been cancelled from GP lists as I never used them, and they thought I'd moved! But who's the dumb one now, when I spent the last day in my flat attempting to justify to myself why I was crawling rather than walking, my spine so ruined by this time that it was the only way I could get around? I even disallowed my concerned husband from visiting me except briefly, posing as a dissolute malingerer who could easily get out of bed but couldn't be bothered, whereas in fact I was dying. I've always liked the author Catherine Aird line: 'If you can't be a good example, then you'll just have to be a horrible warning', and I urge you, if you haven't done so already, to apply this saying to me. Don't let it get to the crawling stage before you call the doc! So here I am, washed up on the shores of sickness like a sailor who stands very little chance of seeing home the land of the able-bodied again, helpless in my hospital bed, but extremely happy to be alive and looking forward to rehab. Amusingly, it's not the kind of rehab I've been urged to go to for years, but a specialist hospital where I'll learn later this year if it's to be walkies or wheelchair for me. It may be a long time until I get there due to the waiting lists for the best ones, so until then I lie here, supremely undignified and inactive but, let's face it, I've always tended towards both, so it's not like I'm sacrificing a lifetime of sporting achievement and public rectitude in one fell swoop. I've got my brain, my sense of humour, my shamelessness and my ability to make a living doing the thing I love; because of this, I still consider myself extremely lucky. Harry Borden/Contour by Getty Images Charles Hopkinson/Camera Press President Trump issued a brutal takedown of MSNBC's Rachel Maddow, vowing that she would soon 'be off the air'. In a late-night post to his Truth Social account, the commander-in-chief said: 'Wow! Rachel Maddow has horrible ratings. She'll be off the air very soon. 'MSNBC IS CLOSE TO DEATH. CNN HAS REACHED THE BOTTOM. This is a good thing. They are the Enemy of the people!' Trump's remarks came after Maddow compared him to Cuban dictator Fidel Castro on Wednesday. The outspoken liberal was speaking about Trump's recent January 6 pardons when she made the remark. Maddow, MSNBC'S top dog in terms of ratings, kicked off a on air rant that started with complaints about Stewart Rhodes, freed founder of the far-right Oath Keepers. Rhodes, like several others, was convicted of seditious conspiracy for his part in the insurrection. The 2021 riot saw more than 100 cops injured, and Maddow - despite one being a supporter of 'defunding the police' - was unwilling to let that slide. In a late-night post to his Truth Social account, the commander-in-chief said that Maddow would soon be off the air Trump's remarks came after Maddow, seen here, compared him to Cuban dictator Fidel Castro on Wednesday After singling out Rhodes specifically, she told viewers: 'There are rumors circulating that Trump had wanted to bring his felons - had wanted to bring these guys who violently attacked police and were convicted for it - all to the White House too. 'That's the sort of thing that probably sounded great at a Trump rally,' she continued, seemingly ad-libbing at this point. 'Probably sounded like it was something the people wanted, when you were stewing about stuff like this at a Trump rally. 'At one of your Fidel Castro, Castro-esque, you know, three and a half hour long rambly speeches,' she continued, quickly offering the juxtaposition. She could not help but add: 'Where most of the people left before you were halfway through it.' Maddow had also taken issues with the attendance of tech billionaires at Trump's inauguration earlier this week. Figures including Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Apple's Tim Cook had been invited to the ceremony. Speaking on air, she had said: 'How is this happening in America?', while her co-host Chris Hayes likened him to a 'cult leader'. In a late night post, Trump said that MSNBC was 'close to death' and that 'CNN had reached the bottom' Welcome to MAGALAND: Insider Trump's Second 100 Days - The podcast bringing you the latest news and gossip from the White House. Listen here. The network has been struggling with viewership, with the former president of the company Rashida Jones resigning earlier this month. Insiders told Variety that Jones decided to leave after 'an intense cycle', with Maddow set to return to a five-night hosting schedule after viewership saw them lose ground to rivals CNN and Fox News. Maddow had previously reduced her hosting duties to one night per week, but resumed her five-night schedule for the first 100 days of Trump's presidency in hopes of drawing in lost viewers. Last month the new bosses of the media firm that oversees MSNBC started making it clear they want more Republican voices on the left-wing network. It came weeks after the CEO is said to have slashed Rachel Maddow's pay by some $5million, after she agreed to stay with the network for another five years. She had reportedly been earning a $30million salary for her weekly show - the second highest paid anchor in television news after Sean Hannity at Fox News who pulls in $45million. From the day after the 2024 election, MSNBC has averaged around 603,000 total viewers in primetime - compared to 3.2 million for Fox News. According to Nielsen data, seen by Adweek, MSNBC's primetime lineup averaged around 758,000 viewers for the week of January 13. For the latest White House gossip and news, listen to new politics podcast, Welcome to MAGAland: Inside Trump's Second 100 Day's. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Having just finished The Litigators, an enjoyable legal thriller from American novelist John Grisham, it seemed rather apposite to get a call shortly afterwards from litigation specialist RGL. The call was to update me on the progress of a High Court group claim that RGL has brought against FTSE100-listed wealth manager Hargreaves Lansdown for persuading many customers to buy investment fund Woodford Equity Income (WEI) ahead of its suspension in June 2019 and subsequent break-up. The claim is for the losses that investors suffered as a result of the investing platform continuing to recommend the fund, run by Neil Woodford, right up until the day of its suspension. This is despite concerns within Hargreaves Lansdown that Woodford's fund was becoming increasingly illiquid as the manager was forced to jettison more liquid stocks to meet a rising tide of redemptions. RGL's claim is also for the loss of the opportunity of investing in alternative funds that, in contrast to WEI, would have generated positive returns. Since I last wrote on this claim just over a month ago, RGL has added a further 1,500 claimants to the group action, taking the total to 6,600. It expects that when the claim is served on the defendant in the next few months, it will be in excess of 200 million, with average claims of around 20,000, including interest. Big sums. Cringy: Former fund boss Neil Woodford's latest view on markets is that China is a raging 'buy' Anyone who invested in WEI via Hargreaves Lansdown can obtain details about joining the claim at woodfordlitigation.com irrespective of whether they were still holding the fund when the shutters were abruptly drawn. RGL will levy no initial fees on those who agree to participate in the claim. Only if the claim is successful will it take a slice of the bounty. As the plot of novel The Litigators highlights, not all group actions are successful. But for many Woodford investors, RGL's claim remains the last chance for them to make good the losses they suffered from getting embroiled in its disastrous fund. So, if you're eligible, join. As for Mr Woodford, the City's regulator seems no closer to taking any action against him for running his fund into the ground and leaving investors with huge losses. As the former fund manager intimated in a self-serving YouTube video last month (far more cringy on the eye than even the awful new Nicole Kidman romp Babygirl), it could be a while before the Financial Conduct Authority takes any action against him. Indeed, given the Chancellor of the Exchequer's determination to shake up the regulators, Mr Woodford may well survive the FCA. For the record, Mr Woodford's latest view on markets is that China is a raging 'buy'. I wouldn't buy it for love nor money. woodfordlitigation.com Saba gets short shrift Three cheers to the shareholders of investment trust Herald (I'm one of them) for telling US hedge fund manager Saba what they thought of its proposal to take control of the 1.2 billion fund, run with aplomb for nigh on 31 years by Katie Potts. To use a somewhat vulgar term that my late mother used frequently, investors said: 'B***er off.' Last Wednesday, they voted overwhelmingly against all the proposals put forward by Saba at a general meeting that it had requested (in a nutshell, proposals to sack the board and replace them with their own stooges ahead of seizing control of the fund). It means that Herald can now carry on doing what it does best extracting investment returns from a global portfolio of tech, media, and telecoms smaller companies. Yet Saba, run by New York financier Boaz Weinstein, isn't finished yet. Next month, it will try the same trick on six other investment trusts, starting with shareholder votes at Baillie Gifford US Growth and Keystone Positive Change on Monday week, followed by CQS Natural Resources Growth & Income and Henderson Opportunities a day later. Votes at European Smaller Companies and Edinburgh Worldwide will follow on February 5 and 14 respectively. To private shareholders in these six trusts, vote against every proposal put forward by Saba. It is nothing but an asset stripper. Happy 250th birthday to building societies Buliding societies are a force for good in this country and on Tuesday the industry will mark its 250th anniversary with an informal gathering at the celebrated Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub in London. Deadlines permitted, I will be there to mark the occasion and listen to social historian Professor Carl Chinn talk about how building societies helped lay the foundation stones of the home-owning country we have now become. As a Brummie (as is Carl), I'm proud that the first society (Ketley's) was established at the Golden Cross inn in Birmingham. Although building societies, in terms of numbers, are a shadow of what they once were 42 remain, compared to 382 half a century ago they still do a lot of things right. Many happy returns: The industry will mark its 250th anniversary with an informal gathering at the celebrated Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub in London Most are customer focused and unlike the big banks continue to support the High Street. According to its trade organisation, the Building Societies Association (BSA), societies now account for 30 per cent of all High Street branches run either by them or the banks, compared to 14 per cent in 2012. Although this is more a reflection of the slash and burn branch strategy adopted by the big banks, Nationwide (by far the industry's biggest player) has nailed its colours firmly to the High Street until at least 2028. Smaller societies also play their part in community banking by having branches in towns that the big banks have deserted. The BSA says there are 142 towns in England and Wales that are only served by a building society. In my hometown of Wokingham, just HSBC, Nationwide, fellow society Newbury and a somewhat shambolic post office at the back of WH Smith now support a rather fragile High Street. Both the former Barclays and Lloyds branches remain empty and scar the town. Shame on them. While some building societies have hardly covered themselves in glory over their tardy handling of compensation relating to the collapse of trust fund firm Philips Trust Corporation (an organisation which some society customers ended up with after a conversation in a branch), it's a rare blemish. We need building societies on our High Streets. Remembering David Holmes Talking of building societies, one of its best communicators in the 30 odd years that I have been following them was David Holmes. He worked for Bradford-based Yorkshire and sadly died earlier this month after a long battle with Parkinson's. He was 75. David was passionate about the Yorkshire and its commitment to doing the right thing by the customer. In many ways, in the 1990s and early 2000s, he helped put the society on the map by going out and waving its flag. He was more of an ambassador for the mutual than its chief executives and more of a flag waver for the industry than the BSA. On more than one occasion, I missed my last train home as a result of chewing the (building society) cud with David over a meal washed down with a decent bottle of wine and a glass or two of brandy. On Tuesday, at the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, I'll raise a glass to David. He'd like that very much. Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below. Ms N.P. writes: I have been made aware of your article about bonds recommended by Nicholas James Finance. The same people also sold investments in whisky casks from Boann Distillery, and we are trying to determine whether this is also a scam. NJF appears to be registered at Companies House, but I cannot find a record of them with the Financial Conduct Authority. Tony Hetherington replies: I reported two weeks ago on the marketing of high-risk loan bonds by Nicholas James Finance (NJF), which is not authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Legally, it can offer these company IOUs only to investors who need no protection because they are experienced enough to judge the risks or wealthy enough to stand a complete wipeout. The evidence is that NJF unlawfully sold these bonds to investors who were neither experienced nor wealthy, and the FCA is now investigating. Short measure: Whisky firm's sales claims failed to add up I ended by saying that my own enquiries were still going on. Here is what I have uncovered. As well as selling bonds with false marketing claims, it also sells investment casks of whisky with false marketing claims. You were contacted by NJF salesman Charles Griffin, who told you to expect an average annual return of 10 to 12 per cent from whisky. He added: 'All purchases are made through Whisky&Co, one of the leading whisky cask distributors and wholesalers in the United Kingdom.' What he did not add is that Whisky&Co is owned and run by Ashley Wilkinson, who also owns and runs NJF. According to its website at whiskyco.co.uk: 'The demand for whisky has far exceeded the supply, rendering it a highly profitable investment. Your casks will be stored in a HMRC bonded warehouse.' Your sales agreement goes even further, promising that 'your casks will be stored under bond at HMRC approved distilleries in Scotland.' You might have thought from this sales pitch that Wilkinson's company was offering Scotch whisky. In fact, it sells casks of Irish whiskey. The spelling is different but, more significantly, casks are not stored in Scotland, but in the Republic of Ireland, where HM Revenue & Customs has no jurisdiction and no powers. You invested 18,500, which got you five bourbon casks from Boann Distillery in County Meath. However, the distillery says the price for five casks is about 16,250. Whisky&Co has not explained the difference, so presumably that's its rake-off. Your purchase agreement says each cask holds about 225 litres, the distillery says 200 litres that is some difference in what you get for your money! Whisky&Co's sales brochure says it 'has strong relationships with some of the most active auction houses, such as Bonhams, in the whisky industry'. Bonhams, a famous auction house, has whisky experts and does hold whisky auctions, but it told me: 'Bonhams does not have a relationship with Whisky&Co. We will look into this further.' I put all this to Ashley Wilkinson. He failed to answer a single question, offer a single comment or explain his false claims. I contacted Boann Distillery, and Sally-Anne Cooney a member of the family that owns it told me: 'Whisky&Co Ltd is one of the companies that we have a trading relationship with, and they are wholly responsible for their own marketing.' The bottom line is that you have invested 18,500 on the basis of false claims. You could sue Whisky&Co to cancel the contract, but the company may not have the money to repay you its 2024 accounts show it is worth minus 312,948. So you may be stuck with the whiskey, and can just hope for the best about ten years from now when it has matured. For anyone who might still be tempted by Wilkinson and his salesmen, their bonds and their barrels, I recommend a bargepole. A very big bargepole. 3 years to cancel Three's broadband Ms R.E. writes: In 2020 I took out a broadband contract with Three. In 2022 I moved house and cancelled it, but recently I discovered I was still paying a direct debit to Three. I rang and was told to cancel my payments and it would investigate, but next I received an email saying my query has been closed. Conclusion: Three confirmed the account has not been used since April 2022 Tony Hetherington replies: You called Three again, and when you asked whether you would be repaid for the payments made over the past 30 months, your call was put on hold before the line went dead. Soon afterwards an email from Three said it had not received the latest month's payment. You explained you had cancelled the account, but Three replied that you had to give 30 days notice and it expected payment for those 30 days. I asked Three to look into this. Its cancellation process is not simple you might need a code to switch to another provider, a different code to cancel altogether and so on. Three told me: 'We have no record of Ms E's request to close her account in 2022. We apologise for the difficulty Ms E has experienced but have now come to a mutual resolution.' Three confirmed your account has not been used since April 2022, and it has now repaid you 787. If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 9 Derry Street, London W8 5HY or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned. So far, so good, it's going solidly.' That is the verdict of Daniel Avigad on the returns he has generated for investors from the investment fund he started managing 17 months ago. The fund in question is Lansdowne European Special Situations before Avigad came on board it was known as Crux European Special Situations and run by Richard Pease, a longstanding investment manager. And the return he has extracted from the fund's portfolio so far is a respectable 19 per cent better than the average for the fund's peer group. Lansdowne Partners bought investment boutique Crux Asset Management in the summer of 2023. And with Pease retiring, Avigad was the obvious choice to take over the fund's helm. For the past ten years, he has run Lansdowne European Long Only Fund from the company's London offices. 'I'm pleased with the way things are progressing with the fund,' says Avigad. 'There is a momentum which I want to maintain, and investors seem happy.' Although the fund's emphasis on identifying 'idiosyncratic' investment opportunities is the same approach that Pease adopted, Avigad has stamped his own mark on the portfolio. The number of holdings has shrunk from 40 to 30, while 85 per cent of the portfolio is different to that he inherited. 'Many of the stocks we have bought are businesses Richard liked, but had not invested in,' he adds. The fund, with assets of 424 million, invests in businesses across Europe including the UK although holdings in UK-listed companies are restricted to five per cent. It has stakes in FTSE100-listed stocks Compass and Informa. It also has a position in US-listed chemical company Linde which was previously listed on the German stock market. Avigad is nothing but thorough in seeking out suitable investments. He and his team (two analysts and deputy fund manager Shashwat Verma) produce detailed financial reports on the companies they hold or are interested in, then discuss their findings with the management of these businesses. They then decide whether to continue to hold, reduce or increase their stake, or buy its shares. Businesses that Avigad likes include Swedish mining company Boliden. 'Europe accounts for 15 per cent of world demand for copper, yet only provides five per cent of global supply,' he says. 'Boliden owns Aitik, Sweden's largest open-pit copper mine, and should benefit from the world's drive towards electrification. Generally, some of the world's largest untapped mineral deposits are to be found in Scandinavia.' He's also a fan of Swedish telecoms company Tele2 which he says should be a beneficiary from the consolidation of the telecoms industry Europe-wide. While the economic outlook for Europe is rather bleak, Avigad is convinced his team will continue to find opportunities whether as a result of global trends such as energy transition or structural change within specific industries. Despite the good performance numbers that Avigad has achieved so far on European Special Situations, major investing platforms have yet to include it among their best buy European funds. But if he continues to outperform many of his peers, the investment case for the fund will become stronger. For example, Interactive Investor prefers BlackRock Continental European Income, Fidelity European, Janus Henderson European Select Opportunities and index tracker Vanguard FTSE Developed Europe Ex-UK Equity Index. Total fund charges are reasonable at 0.89 per cent and Lansdowne Partners as an investment house currently manages assets of around 6.5 billion. Scottish Widows and two other investment platforms owned by Lloyds Bank have been accused of a 'shocking dereliction of duty' after blocking shareholders from voting on plans to oust the boards of seven London-listed investment trusts. Saba Capital, run by Wall Street raider Boaz Weinstein, is proposing to replace directors at the seven investment trusts with its own nominees, saying leaders have 'failed shareholders' and made poor decisions. It has stakes in each firm ranging from 19 to 29 per cent and needs to win 50 per cent support from voting shareholders to succeed. As a result, it will win if other investors do not actively vote against the proposals. Most of the trusts have large numbers of small investors, many of whom hold their shares through investment platforms, and as a result, their turnout is crucial in deciding the outcome. However, investors who hold shares in the trusts through Scottish Widows, Embark and Stock Trade all owned by Lloyds will not be able to vote. This is because Scottish Widows, which also offers pensions and savings accounts such as Isas, and the other two do not consider the meetings called by Saba to be 'corporate actions' and thus do not allow investors to vote on them. Pushing for change: Saba Capital is run by Wall Street raider Boaz Weinstein (pictured) 'This is a shocking dereliction of their consumer duty and I cannot see how they consider it to be in line with their obligations to customers,' said Conservative peer and former pensions minister Baroness Altmann. 'This is making a mockery of shareholder democracy and corporate governance rules. The regulator should be stepping in urgently.' James Williams, chairman of The European Smaller Companies Trust, one of the seven being targeted by Saba, said the situation was 'extremely disappointing' and that investors should 'absolutely be able to exercise their right to vote without impediment'. The stance by the Lloyds-owned firms will exacerbate concerns that investment platforms are not doing enough to inform shareholders of Saba's plans nor making it easier for them to vote on the proposals. 'At a time when UK equity markets are in the doldrums, it is astonishing that an opportunity to stimulate shareholder engagement is being blocked for what is clearly a nonsensical reason,' said Amit Vedhara, director at small shareholder lobbying group ShareSoc. Last week, the Financial Conduct Authority wrote to the UK's main investment platforms to ask them how they informed shareholders about voting in the battle between Saba and the trusts. It came after industry body the Association of Investment Companies urged the watchdog to change the rules on how platforms inform investors about plans to change strategy or leadership. Weinstein suffered a bloody nose last week when investors in the 1.3 billion Herald Investment Trust, the largest firm on Saba's hitlist, decisively rejected his attempt to kick out the board. Just over 65 per cent of voting shares were against the proposals, with only 34.9 per cent in favour. Once the shares controlled by Saba were excluded, more than 99 per cent of independent shareholders opposed the proposals. The total turnout amounted to nearly 81 per cent of shares. But the battle is set to continue on February 3 when two more trusts, Baillie Gifford US Growth and Keystone Positive Change, face similar votes at shareholder meetings. Both trusts have higher levels of small shareholders than Herald, meaning turnout from investors holding stock through investment platforms is even more important. A Lloyds spokesman said the bank was looking into the issue and had received a 'handful' of enquiries from customers on the matter. Zillah Byng-Thorne is on one of the longest journeys it is possible to take in business. The Scottish chief executive, with a distinct Glasgow accent, moved last year from the glamorous world of magazine publishing at Future based in Bath and home to glossy titles including Marie Claire and Country Life to funeral provider Dignity. We meet at Dignity's cavernous death palace on an industrial estate in Walthamstow, east London, from where many funerals in the north and east of the capital are organised. Byng-Thorne is philosophical about the abrupt career change. 'At the heart of it, it is still about delivering services to consumers. 'We are helping people with something that really matters. It's at a point in their lives when they don't have muscle memory or experience and need to be guided through it,' she earnestly explains. Death is all around us as we speak. An acrid smell of formaldehyde pervades the atmosphere. But the floor below us is a hive of activity. Shining black hearses are lining up for the day's burials and cremations. New bodies, 'guests' as they are referred, head for short-term preparation and refrigeration. Revival: Zillah Byng-Thorne is engaged in a complex turnaround at Dignity In the next room embalmers are at work preparing bodies for dispatch. In the workshop a carpenter is hammering a silk lining into a dark, teak coffin replete with shining brass handles. As she takes me from department to department Byng-Thorne, clad in dark trousers and a colourful top, seems remarkably at ease with all that is going on around her. It is hard to avert one's eyes from a sign outside the arrivals cold store which reminds colleagues not to forget the trays designed to collect bodily fluids draining from the deceased. When Zillah was asked to become chief executive of Dignity, which had been taken private by insurance pioneer Peter Wood and associate Gary Channon at Castlenau Investments, she wasn't sure she could deal with the subject matter. 'So as part of my due diligence I wanted to go and visit some of the funeral directors and make sure I was happy spending my days talking about death... it made me realise how much care and compassion they have every day,' she says. Wood and Channon, who seek to restore great British brands including philately specialist Stanley Gibbons to past glory, paid 300 million for Dignity in May 2023 800 million including debt. Byng-Thorne showed her entrepreneurial skills to Wood when he injected his comparison website GoCompare into Future in 2021. 'When I go out now someone asks me what I do, I smile and say that I am a funeral director. It's a conversation stopper,' she says. Byng-Thorne, a mother of five sons three of her own and two stepsons is engaged in a complex turnaround. Dignity, with 600 branches across the British Isles, has down the decades been allowed to atrophy. It is also engaged in a running battle with the City regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), over inherited funeral insurance plans which went wrong. It must also contend with the consequences of a competition finding that eroded profit margins. More recently it is having to contend with a 'shocking' rise in costs for a workforce of 4,000 due to the Chancellor's swingeing rise in employers' National Insurance. One of the unresolved challenges are the 60,000 funeral plans which Dignity, as the largest player in the market, took on when the operators went bust. It was hoped that the cost of providing these burials would be covered by funds locked up by the trustees of the plans. Instead, Byng-Thorne says, they are 'incentivised to take as much time as possible to payout because they earn more fees'. Adding to her woes is the FCA, which bills Dignity every time there is a complaint from a grieving relative about not getting the funeral they paid for. So far it has shelled out some 5 million on the burials it took on and has an exposure of another 50 million. 'It's not made my life any easier,' she says. As for the FCA Byng-Thorne is totally dismissive: 'They are being totally unhelpful, pathetic and ineffective arguing that because the plans were not regulated at the time it has no jurisdiction.' 'It is a long, lingering mess at the most traumatic moment in someone's life,' she adds. 'It is on a smaller scale, but it's sort of like PPI (personal protection insurance) and car finance scandals.' With a large family of men and five female French bulldogs to look after, Byng-Thorne has striven to develop a work-life balance as she has climbed the corporate ladder. She trained as an accountant while working for Nestle before taking on senior finance roles at GE Capital, HMV, Threshers and Fitness First before ascending to the top job at Future where, in 2021, she accumulated salary and bonuses of 8.8 million. She managed to cope with her job and household with the assistance of two nannies, a mother she called upon in emergencies and by restricting extra-curricular activities. As a matter of principle she avoids evening events such as corporate dinners making the effort to be at home with family and dogs. Byng-Thorne has a mammoth task ahead modernising Dignity and making it viable again. 'The reality is we were overleveraged. We have too much debt. 'The tech infrastructure is poor and we still print off invoices and send them off in the post...We've been through four chief executives in two years, hopefully I will make more than six months.' She thinks the assisted dying bill could help reset things 'if people start leaving their affairs in a certain order'. Byng-Thorne's own mother has said to her that there is no point in writing a will as she has no estate. A good send-off: Funeral firm Dignity has 600 branches across the British Isles 'The reality is that it is about leaving your affairs in an orderly, and slightly less emotional state.' It starts with writing a will then buying a funeral plan and moving on and having a broader conversation, with Dignity providing probate services too. Dying in the capital can be an expensive affair. In Dignity's south London cemetery, the cost of a grave has reached 20,000. In some areas of the country there are no plots at all. The company is obliged to maintain burial sites (often on hundred-year leases) which are full. It has also had to learn to set up Muslim burial grounds within cemeteries facing towards Mecca. Sorting out Islamic funerals, which are meant to happen without delay, can be a nightmare due to Government legislation around doctors' certificates, which has made it harder to release the deceased into Dignity's care. She rose from being a physician assistant to running one of the largest cities in America. But today, embattled Karen Bass, 71, is a lightning rod for anger over her handling of historic wildfires that turned huge swaths of Los Angeles into a charred hellscape. And now her alleged missteps have imperiled her political career and further damaged her crumbling reputation with millions of Angelenos. Last night, in yet another on-air embarrassment, she was taken to task in front of millions by none other than President Trump. He admonished her for her poor handling of the fires disaster, telling her to use her power appropriately to get people the help they need. So far, 27 victims are known to have perished in the fires, fanned by dangerous Santa Ana winds, as authorities continue to sift through mile after mile of horrific devastation searching for human remains. I don't think she'll ever be reelected... I think her political career is over, former LA County District Attorney Steve Cooley tells DailyMail.com of the citys 43rd mayor. The perception of her from residents at this point is such that she can no longer effectively lead the city of Los Angeles. She's lost the public's trust and importantly, their respect. Cooley, who served as DA from 2000 to 2012, states that there is an understandable wave of sentiment to have Bass ejected from the Mayors office but that such a move would be an uphill battle. He added there was already a wave of city-wide antipathy towards Bass before the historic fires which he blames on her decision to prioritize DEI issues rather than focusing on hiring qualified candidates to key departments. Karen Bass in her early days as a political activist in Los Angeles. She also spent time in Cuba with the Venceremos Brigade, a socialist revolution group A firefighter responds to burning homes while a helicopter crew drop water from the sky close to the ground Beach front properties overlooking the Pacific, once sought-after trophy homes, lay in charred ruins from the Palisades Fire Moreover, he adds that Bass focus on her two signature issues keeping LA a sanctuary city and the ceaseless homeless crisis have bee a major detriment to the city and its residents. She's operating against the law when it comes to sanctuary cities, and the other issues of homelessness - she has not accomplished her goals, and it has been a failure, said Cooley. Before becoming Madam Mayor, Bass served six terms as a Democrat in Congress and was a potential running mate in Joe Bidens 2020 campaign for president. She entered Congress in 2010 and was chair of Congressional Black Caucus. Meanwhile, the current wildfire disaster is only the latest controversy to damage Bass. She praised Fidel Castro and had close associations with Cuba in her youth, traveling to the country in 1973 with an organization called the Venceremos Brigade and seeing the communist leader speak. In 2016, when Castro died, she referred to him as 'commandante en jefe' (commander-in-chief) saying his passing was a 'great loss to the people of Cuba.' She also reportedly gave a eulogy for a senior member of the Communist Party USA. And now you have the fires that destroyed (the city) and there is mismanagement. People feel that she let them down. To a certain extent, some people feel the city was set up for this disaster. Cooley lambasted divorcee Bass over her controversial hiring of $750,0fd00-a-year LA water czar Janisse Quinones who was brought in to clean house at thea citys woefully mismanaged Department of Water and Power (LADWP) but is said to be responsible for a raft of failures that contributed to the devastating Palisades Fire, LAFD insiders told DailyMail.com. Karen Bass was taken to task by President Trump in California on January 24 as he compelled her to do more to alleviate the crisis On Bass's orders, the city maxed out its budget to 'attract private-sector talent', hiring Quinones on a salary almost double that of her predecessor. Cooley pointed out that Quinones, just like Bass, has been overly focused on social justice. Their job to protect the public was secondary to their social justice agenda, and for that, they should all resign in disgrace, he said. Bass, shockingly, was in Ghana when the Palisades fire erupted on Jan. 7 and ripped through the area ravaging multi-million dollar homes and leaving thousands homeless. She was thousands of miles away to attend the inauguration of that countrys new president as part of a U.S. delegation. Bass eventually made it back to LA the day after the flames had begun causing havoc. 'I've seen the devastation firsthand,' she wrote in on online post. 'These fires across our region have changed lives forever. The days ahead will be challenging but we will get through this crisis, together. 'Thank you to all the first responders who are working day and night doing everything possible to protect Los Angeles.' Bass, who smiled awkwardly during her address, said: 'To any of you and all of you who have experienced a loss, the grief, the anger, the just utter shock - I've seen the devastation, it is unbelievable the amount of loss that people have experienced.' Elon Musk blasted Bass, the first woman mayor of LA, as utterly incompetent and highlighted posts on X saying she was a DEI hire. And property developer Rick Caruso, who narrowly lost to Bass in the 2022 mayoral showdown, condemned her ill-timed absence from LA, claiming it contributed to a delayed response to the fires. We have a mayor who seems to be more concerned about being at some party, wherever that is, Caruso told the Los Angeles times. In the citys most recent budget, Bass decreased funds for the LAFD by $17 million - but had originally wanted to slash $23 million. Coincidence or not, the cuts came after the United Firefighters of LA had endorsed Caruso for mayor. He compared Pacific Palisades, where he owns an upscale mall called Palisades Village, to a third world country because of mismanagement that led to fire hydrants running out of water. Bass defended her actions minutes after landing back in the city, commenting weakly in response to mounting criticism, Although I wasnt physically here, I was in touch with many of the individuals standing here throughout the entire time. This is going to be an effort of all of us coming together, and we have to resist any effort to pull us apart. When Bass ran for mayor, video emerged of an event in 2010 when she spoke at a ceremony for a renovated Church of Scientology building in the city. The controversial organization has been accused of acting like a cult and has faced a number of allegations from former members of abuse, human trafficking and intimidation. During her remarks, Bass called the opening of the headquarters an exciting moment because I know your goal and your commitment is truly to make a difference. The Church of Scientology I know has made a difference. Because your creed is a universal creed and one that speaks to all people everywhere. Karen Bass, daughter Emilia, and former husband Jesus Lechuga from 1980 to 1986. Bass filed for divorce in 1986 citing 'irreconcilable differences' She said of the founder, who said starting a religion was the best way to make a fortune, That is why the words are exciting of your founder L. Ron Hubbard, in the creed of the Church of Scientology: That all people of whatever race, color or creed are created with equal rights. Embarrassed Bass was forced to backtrack in a statement when a video of her pro-Scientology comments re-surfaced during her mayoral campaign. She defended them, saying she was trying to find an area of agreement with the so-called church. I attended the event knowing I was going to address a group of people with beliefs very different than my own, and spoke briefly about things I think most of us agree with, and on those things - respect for different views, equality, and fighting oppression - my views have not changed. Since then, published first-hand accounts in books, interviews and documentaries have exposed this group. Bass was married to Jesus Lechuga from 1980 to 1986 and the couple had a daughter Emilia who was two when she filed for divorce in Feb. 1986 citing irreconcilable differences. They shared joint custody of their daughter and Bass was awarded child support of $60 per month. She filed income information and at the time stating she made $28,000. At that time, she was working as a physician assistant at the USC School of Medicine. Getty House, the official residence of the Mayor of Los Angeles, where Karen. Bass lives today Mayor Bass' $2million private home in the Baldwin Hills area of Los Angeles, also know as the 'Black Beverly Hills' Lechuga has since passed away. Bass went on to become a big player in community organizing in the 1990s, which helped her gain recognition and support when she ran for the CA Assembly. Following their divorce, Bass and Lechuga jointly raised their daughter and Lechugas children from a previous marriage. Her daughter was 23 when she and her husban, Michael Wright, were killed in a car crash in 2006. After becoming Mayor in Dec. 2022, Bass took up residence in Getty House, the official residence of the mayor of Los Angeles. The gated historic mansion, donated to the city by the Getty oil family, is located in the tree-lined Hancock Park area of the city five miles west of City Hall. Bass says she is a Baptist and that she attends First New Christian Fellowship Baptist Church in South LA. She is currently renting out her $2million home in the Baldwin Hills area of LA, also known as the Black Beverly Hills because it has historically been a neighborhood for Black families and professionals. When the Los Angeles fires broke out, Bass was at a cocktail party in Ghana. She flew back when she realized the severity of the disaster, but is yet to apologize for the trip She listed the property for rent $5,950 in September 2023. The 2,900 sq ft, two-bedroom, four-bathroom hillside home was built in 1956 and has a swimming pool, with stunning jetliner views of the city, including to downtown. Residents near Bass Baldwin Hills home spoke with DailyMail.com about their controversial neighbor. Kevin Walker, 58, said Bass has always had our full support. I think she's awesome. She's been a great leader. Adil Farooqui, a neighbor of Karen Bass who lives near her mayoral mansion in Hancock Park, voted for her rival Rick Caruso in the most recent election. When she was living here, she was a great neighbor. She wouldn't necessarily stop and engage, but she was always respectful, always concerned about the neighborhood. We had some homeless camps down the hill and she helped us fight as a community so shes been great. But he agrees with Bass critics who say her trip to Ghana was ill-advised. The problem is optics, he said. In hindsight she should not have necessarily gone to South Africa. She's at the top of the food chain so the buck stops with her. Shes supposed to serve the public. She's been in this political game long enough to understand that. Whatever words she says that this point will fall on deaf ears so we need an independent team that can say what went wrong. Keith Williams, 61, said, The fires are hard for everybody involved but I appreciate the empathy that shes showing and the connection she has with everybody shes trying to deal with. It resonates with me that she understands the buck stops with her. Adrianne Harris, 65, praised Bass as a good neighbor and said, Shes doing the best that she can do. An ocean of water wouldnt have put those fires out. But Basss neighbor in tony Hancock Park, Adil Farooqui, 62, said of the apocalyptic fire storms, Mistakes did happen. Its a tragedy of a lifetime. This was our Katrina. He voted for Caruso for mayor and said the way the lack of resources and series of mistakes will create a lot of pressure for Bass. We pay the highest taxes in the country - I dont under why the fire department was curtailed of funds. She has to explain why this was necessary. It's going to take a toll on her political career. Just 40 minutes after police broke down Suchir Balaji's door and found him lying on the floor of his apartment, they declared his death a suicide. The tech prodigy, 26, who just a month earlier blew the whistle on OpenAI's dubious methods of training ChatGPT, shot himself in the head. Case closed. But when his parents Poornima Ramarao and Balaji Ramamurthy stepped inside his home after his body was carted off to the morgue, the scene didn't make any sense. Photos obtained by DailyMail.com show blood was pooled next to the bathroom door where his head lay, but also splattered around the bathroom far from the body. Lying on the bloodstains were one of Balaji's wireless earbuds and two mysterious tufts of what appeared to be synthetic hair, like from a wig. His home, in a high-end building on Buchanan Street in San Francisco's Mint Hill neighborhood, was also ransacked, 'like someone was searching for something'. 'After seeing there is so much blood everywhere, I don't know how they think it's a suicide, it doesn't look close,' his father, Ramamurthy, told DailyMail.com. Balaji's parents refuse to believe their son took his own life, insisting it was a 'cold-blooded murder' despite police declaring there was no foul play. Suchir Balaji, 26, was found in his apartment in San Francisco on November 26 with a gunshot to the head and his death ruled a suicide Photos obtained by DailyMail.com show blood was pooled next to the bathroom door where his head lay, but also splattered around the bathroom far from the body Blood both inside the bathroom, and pooled on the floor outside the door where his head was found His apartment sits frozen in time - never cleaned, and touched as little as possible since police left it on November 26. Neither have they held a proper funeral nor buried his body, instead raising $85,000 to pay lawyers, investigators, and forensic experts to prove he was murdered. One of them was Professor Dinesh Rao, who wrote a preliminary report on the scene obtained by DailyMail.com. The report includes dozens of photos showing the condition of Balaji's one-bedroom apartment, along with earlier images taken by his family. The bachelor pad is relatively orderly through the entrance and lounge area, but rapidly changes as you get closer to where he died. His last meal, a half-eaten ready-meal with brown rice still in the plastic tray, sits on his cluttered desk with a fork and a restaurant receipt. Worse still is the kitchen table, strewn with clutter, some of which spilled onto the floor along with pieces of chocolate. 'The disturbed surroundings supports possibility of fights/resistance, which need to be corroborated with other forensic evidence,' Rao wrote. His last meal, a half-eaten ready-meal with brown rice still in the plastic tray, sits on his cluttered desk with a fork and a restaurant receipt His apartment sits frozen in time - never cleaned, and touched as little as possible since police left it on November 26 The bachelor pad is relatively orderly through the entrance and lounge area, but rapidly changes as you get closer to where he died The kitchen table, strewn with clutter, some of which spilled onto the floor along with pieces of chocolate Balaji's bedroom was also in upheaval, and a wireless earbud was found on the floor near the entrance, with blood stains and hair strands on it. Close by, just outside the bathroom door near the hinges, was a large area of dried blood with the other earbud and a red shopping bag. Splattered blood extended up the door and the doorframe about 18 inches, dripping down to the floor, and a splash extended just past the threshold on the bathroom tiles. One tuft of synthetic hair was jammed in the corner of the door, and other, including a pin, so coated with dried blood it blended into the pool. The hair has only been physically examined and will soon undergo lab tests, along with blood samples, to find out what it is made of and if there was anyone else's DNA at the scene. Inside the bathroom were drops of blood across the tiles, on the cabinet next to the sink, and on the cabinet handle, on the other side of the room. Rao wrote that some of the drops of blood appeared to have fallen while the victim was sitting, or possibly crawling, and others while standing. Some of the blood could have been coughed up. Also on the floor was a knocked over trash bin and a plastic floss pick. Ramarao said she had not seen photos of her son's body at the scene, but police told her he was found lying on his back with his feet pointed away from the bathroom. Inside the bathroom were drops of blood across the tiles, on the cabinet next to the sink, and on the cabinet handle, on the other side of the room Also on the floor was a knocked over trash bin and a plastic floss pick The stock layout of Balaji's apartment with the bathroom where he was found on the left She also said the private autopsy she paid for showed the bullet was shot from above, entering above his nose and lodging just below the back of his skull. She claimed the bullet completely missed his brain, and he instead bled to death on the bathroom door, and had a second blunt trauma wound on the side of his head. Rao wrote in his report that Balaji likely bled for 15 to 30 minutes. Balaji's parents theorize their son was attacked from behind while he was listening to music and cleaning his teeth, and his head smashed into the wall or cabinet. After fighting back, he was pulled up onto his knees or sitting down, and shot in the head. As the wound wasn't fatal, he survived for some minutes and got out of the bathroom before dying from blood loss. 'A 10-minute struggle, probably,' his father said. His parents believe the apartment was ransacked because the killer was looking for a storage device that had damning evidence on it. Balaji's gun, a Glock pistol that records showed he bought on January 4, 2024, was found near his body, along with a box of 9mm ammunition in his closet with six rounds missing. One of the rounds was found in the gun case, which included the record of sale, another four elsewhere, and one unaccounted for. Ballistic tests to confirm whether this was the gun that killed him are yet to be carried out. His parents claimed there was no gunshot residue on his hands. Splattered blood extended up the door and the doorframe about 18 inches, dripping down to the floor, and a splash extended just past the threshold on the bathroom tiles Blood drops inside the bathroom looking inside from the door A splash of lighter blood next to a red shopping bag that was stuck to the biggest blood pool Rao criticized the police investigation as 'incomplete and inadequate' that missed vital clues like the fake hair and earbuds, which he called 'a very serious error'. 'Will have a serious impact on the understanding of the manner of death, besides helping the alleged suspect (if any) to escape from the crime and adding more speculations surrounding the death,' he wrote. Rao wrote that the disturbed scenes were 'more likely seen in homicidal death scene and rarely observed in alleged suicidal cases'. He also noted the lack of a suicide note and the 'widely distributed and pattern of blood splatters' were 'most unlikely in victims whose fatality/unconsciousness is instantaneous' as in a suicide by gunshot. Ramamurthy said his son's apartment was never completely tidy, but it was never anywhere near as messy as they found it. 'Everything is scattered, like somebody is searching something,' he said. 'And the blood spots all over the place, hairs if they have taken a deep analysis, they could have seen this, but they didn't want to, they just took the gun and took him, that's all. 'They already decided it was a suicide when they walked in, in 40 minutes, then they handed us back the keys.' Blood on the other side of the doorframe to the vast majority of the blood splatter, as seen from inside the bathroom Balaji's gun, a Glock pistol that records show he bought on January 4, 2024, was found near his body, along with a box of 9mm ammunition in his closet with six rounds missing One of the rounds was found in the gun case, which included the record of sale, another four elsewhere, and one unaccounted for Balaji's last hours alive Ramamurthy was the last known person to speak to Balaji, in a phone call at 7.12pm on November 22 that may only have been hours before he died. Balaji had just returned from a holiday to Los Angeles with some friends, who were former colleagues or worked in tech, for his birthday a day earlier. They spoke for 15 minutes about his trip, the hikes he did in LA, the weather, and the birthday money Balaji would soon be sent. Ramamurthy asked him if he wanted to go to an exhibit in January together, and he said, 'Sure, let's see, I'll think about it'. 'I asked do you plan to visit us and he said, "Not immediately",' he recalled. 'He was happy, he didn't show any depression. He had just returned, and in the end he said, 'I'm going for dinner, I'll talk to you later.' Usually, he goes out for dinner.' Whether the half-eaten ready-meal meant he never went out, just got takeaway, or ate it the next day is unclear as the exact time of death is not known - though police believe it to be that night or the next morning. Balaji's parents didn't hear from him for the next two days - the weekend - but weren't concerned as he was often busy and had just returned home. But by Monday, they began to worry; it wasn't like him not to answer their calls at all. 'We called all the hospitals because sometimes he rides his bike and in San Francisco sometimes there are crazy drivers, so we thought something happened, an accident or something,' Ramamurthy said. 'He wasn't there so we thought he must have gone to a friend's place or hiking.' Balaji had just returned from a holiday to Los Angeles with some friends, who were former colleagues or worked in tech, for his birthday a day earlier Balaji hiking near Los Angeles during the holiday just before he died They reported him missing first thing on Tuesday, and police forced open his door about 1pm for a welfare check. That's when they found his body. Ramarao arrived soon after, and claimed police refused for hours to tell her if her son was dead. At 2pm they told her to go home, but she refused. Finally, at 3.20pm, she saw a white van arrive outside and only a stretcher emerge. Staff inside were from the medical examiner, and told her a body was in Balaji's apartment. Ramamurthy said the couple wrestled for days with the being told their son took his own life, until a phone call from the Associated Press changed everything. Tech prodigy to whistleblower Balaji never expected to become a lightning rod for those wary of the emerging power of artificial intelligence - or just his boss, OpenAI founder Sam Altman. He joined the company in November 2020, having spent four months interning there two years earlier while studying at UC Berkley. Ramarao was always convinced her son was special, from speaking complex sentences at two to building a computer at 13 as he grew up in Cupertino, California. 'He was a prodigy. We knew he had excellent motor skills when he was two and a half months,' she said at a vigil the day after his body was found. 'At 13 months old, he showed he was not ordinary by picking up all the alphabet. Less than two years old, he could recognize words.' His senior year of high school in 2016 he won a platinum division of the USA Computing Olympiad, a programming competition, and was recruited to work for Quora as a software engineer. Then in 2018, while a student at Berkley, he won $100,000 by placing seventh in a competition to write an algorithm to improve TSA passenger screening. Balaji's work at OpenAI also impressed, to the extent where co-founder John Schulman lionized him on LinkedIn. 'He'd think through the details of things carefully and rigorously. And he also had a slight contrarian streak that made him allergic to "groupthink" and eager to find where the consensus was wrong,' he wrote. Balaji never expected to become a lightning rod for those wary of the emerging power of artificial intelligence Balaji lived in this high-end building on Buchanan Street in San Francisco's Mint Hill neighborhood But as early as 2022 he was starting to question the work he was doing, training GPT-4 - the engine behind ChatGPT - with reams of data from the internet. Balaji had justified his work by treating it like a research project, but after it was launched in late 2022 and sold commercially, he began to rethink this. He came to the conclusion that OpenAI was so grossly violating copyright laws that not only was it illegal, it was unsustainable for the internet itself. Eventually he quit last August and wrote his findings in a detailed essay on his personal website, then spoke to the New York Times. Balaji's NYT interview was published on October 23, shocking his parents and even his friends - none of whom he told in advance. Ramarao berated him for speaking out by himself instead of joining forces with other whistleblowers, and for posing for photos so everyone knew what he looked like. 'I was very concerned because he might be called a whistleblower that might impact his career, that was my biggest fear,' she said. 'But never that his life would be in danger.' Balaji told her not to worry he wasn't giving away confidential secrets, just expressing his opinion on the work, and he had enough money from his OpenAI stock. 'He said he wasn't looking for another job, he said he was planning to found a startup,' his mother said. Balaji's parents Poornima Ramarao and Balaji Ramamurthy (pictured with him) insist he was murdered and have spent more than $100,000 trying to prove it Balaji worked for OpenAI founder Sam Altman until last August, when he quit and and wrote his findings in a detailed essay on his personal website, then spoke to the New York Times Then a week before his death, the NYT named him as a 'custodian witness' in its copyright infringement lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft. His mother believes that implied he had more damaging information up his sleeve, and was targeted for it. Balaji wasn't done going public, either. Days after his death, his phone rang and his parents picked it up. On the other end was an Associated Press reporter who didn't know Balaji was dead, and was calling to schedule an interview he agreed to do. 'Maybe he had some new information to share with AP and somebody doesn't want that liability, so they targeted him,' Ramamurthy said. 'After that phone call we got suspicious. We were just finding so many things suddenly happened and it was kind of frozen for us what to do next. 'So then we got this call, then we thought, oh, this is something totally big, this has to be investigated.' Worried, but not suicidal Balaji's parents have three main reasons they believe he couldn't have killed himself - the crime scene, the timing of his death after going public, and that he had too much to life for. 'There's no depression, he didn't have a suicide note or anything, he was financially stable, he has a good friends circle, going around having a good time,' his father said. 'If I'm depressed usually I'm isolated watching movies and drinking but he didn't do that.' 'The way I talked to him that night, he didn't show any stress, he was very cool and normal and there was no strain in his voice. 'He takes care of himself, he goes to the gym, he's health-conscious, he goes with friends to so many movies he's not a person to get depressed, he's outgoing, he had plans for his own startup. 'He had some members already collected from Berkley, he had a lot of future plans.' Ramarao berated him for speaking out by himself instead of joining forces with other whistleblowers, and for posing for photos so everyone knew what he looked like Balaji (center) with friends. His parents said he had a very active social life Though his parents are adamant Balaji wasn't depressed or suicidal, he wasn't quite himself - he seemed worried, off-balance, even afraid. Ramamurthy said he thought Balaji was planning to do more press interviews as a means of protecting himself 'and also expose things'. He also speculated whoever killed Balaji gave him a warning and that's why he bought a gun 10 months before his death. 'He didn't care he's a little bit more like his mother than me, I'm very cautious,' he said. 'He bought a gun in January, that's a long time back, one year, so we assume he has had some threat somewhere, you want to protect himself from that.' Ramarao said he also months earlier discussed with his former boss about leaving OpenAI and studying a PhD instead. 'Usually he'll be very focused on his work, so there was something going on [we may never know] unless we get access to his laptop and other things or the HR record or something, since he's very secretive,' she said. Balaji 'hated' his boss Another wrinkle was added to the story when Sam Altman's sister Ann Altman, 30, claimed he molested her when she was a child. The disturbing lawsuit filed earlier this month in the US District Court of Missouri - where the siblings grew up - alleged the abuse was between 1997 - when Ann was just three years old and Sam was 12 - and 2006. It claimed Altman 'groomed and manipulated [her] into believing the aforementioned sexual acts were her idea, despite the fact she was under the age of five years old when the sexual abuse began and [he] was nearly a teenager'. Altman and his family took the unusual step of publicly rebutting the 'deeply hurtful and entirely untrue claims'. They said Annie 'faces mental health challenges' and despite financial assistance and offers of help, kept asking for money and making damaging claims about her family. Sam Altman (pictured left) denied claims by his sister Ann (pictured center-left) in a new lawsuit that he sexually abused her as a child Ramarao said she had no opinion on the lawsuit, calling it 'between the two of them'. 'There are things that we know that we can speak for there are things that we don't know that we cannot speak for, right?' she said. But she said though Balaji never spoke to his parents about Altman, friends have since his death revealed the contempt he held his boss in. 'He's a very weird person Suchir hated him, that much I can tell you. All his friends say he was very vocal against Sam Altman,' she said. 'He never hated anyone in his life in his life. I've never heard him complain in the school days or college days or even coworkers. He never said anything negative about anyone, so he probably had strong reasons for that.' Parents search for the truth Ramamurthy said the funeral home his son's body was sent to was among the first to suggest they get a second autopsy, because Balaji's death seemed 'suspicious'. 'These events made us think this is not a suicide, it is a planned cold-blooded murder,' he said. 'It was executed over the weekend so people won't find him for a long time and also he was on vacation so they can get in and do the required things to set up.' The autopsy was done in early December at the cost of thousands of dollars, and Ramarao insisted it called the suicide explanation into question. However, she said they wouldn't release it until after the medical examiner's office released theirs. The San Francisco Medical Examiner must complete their autopsy report within 90 days of the examination, which is in just over a month. Balaji's parents have three main reasons they believe he couldn't have killed himself - the crime scene, the timing of his death after going public, and that he had too much to life for A second autopsy was done in early December at the cost of thousands of dollars, and Ramarao insisted it called the suicide explanation into question Ramarao is on the phone or in meetings all day, talking to investigators, lawyers, and supporters to bring attention to her cause. 'We have depleted all of our saving in the fight for justice,' she wrote on a fundraiser, citing legal fees of $1,000 to $1,500 an hour and $500 to $800 an hour for private investigators. Ramarao in other interviews has heavily implied, and at least once outright named, who she thinks had her son killed - but now takes a more guarded line. 'We don't know who it is, unless we do the investigation we won't know,' she said. 'If we ask, generally, who would have benefited from this, we know. We can pinpoint and say, "yeah, this person could be benefited" - but unless proven, not guilty.' But both she and Ramamurthy feel the stress of speaking out, as their son did, and worry they could be next. They no longer go out anywhere alone. 'That's what people are telling us, you're already being watched and your life may be at risk, be cautious,' Ramarao said. 'We know our enemy is very, very powerful.' No matter how painful it was to lose him, Ramarao said she remained proud of her son for his courage in sticking to his principles. 'I am not grieving, I have become numb I don't know how I could have saved my son by teaching him to tell lies,' she said at his vigil. 'The ethics with which I raised him took his life today.' No matter how painful it was to lose him, Ramarao said she remained proud of her son for his courage in sticking to his principles Balaji's death takes on a life of its own Conspiracy theories about Balaji's death started almost immediately after it became public in news reports on December 13. Social media provocateurs and true crime buffs quickly began sharing and debating the story, declaring that the AI industry had him killed. His family first posted online about it on December 14, writing 'we are seeking to know complete truth, we need more answers', adding fuel to the fire. An alliance of crypto fans, right-wing pundits, influencers, fringe 'journalists', and outright conspiracy theorists has kept the chatter raging for six weeks. The online avalanche reached sufficient intensity that it reached the attention of Altman's arch-nemesis Elon Musk. 'This doesn't seem like a suicide,' he wrote when reposting one of Ramarao's tweets, and also shared other articles and posts about the case with comments like 'hmm' and 'concerning'. Musk has a longstanding feud with OpenAI and Altman and battled them since they refused his offer to buy them out in 2018. He has since slammed OpenAI for accepting $90 billion of funding, and its plans to transition to a for-profit company, arguing the commercial enterprise flies in the face of its original mission - to help fight threats to humanity posed by AI. It was inevitable Musk would get involved in Balaji's case, not only due to his animosity towards Altman and OpenAI, but because many of those sharing it had one thing in common. Even before he got involved, many of the extremely online proponents were avowed fans of the Tesla billionaire and shared his distrust of Altman. 'This doesn't seem like a suicide,' Elon Musk, arch-nemesis of Sam Altman, wrote when reposting one of Ramarao's tweets, and also shared other articles and posts about the case Some saw the tragedy as an opportunity to enrich themselves, either by sharing it to increase their clout, making shareable video content, or in one case making millions off a memecoin shamelessly exploiting Balaji's death. Others have more genuine motives, like Fremont, California, real estate agent Girish Bangalore, who started a petition demanding a 'comprehensive investigation'. The San Francisco Police Department said Balaji's death was still an 'active and open investigation' and declined to share the full incident report. OpenAI said it was 'devastated' after his death was made public and was in touch with his family to offer support 'Our priority is to continue to do everything we can to assist them,' it said. 'We first became aware of his concerns when The New York Times published his comments and we have no record of any further interaction with him. 'We respect his, and others', right to share views freely. Our hearts go out to Suchir's loved ones, and we extend our deepest condolences to all who are mourning his loss. 'Suchir was a valued member of our team and we are still heartbroken by his passing. We continue to feel his loss deeply. 'We've reached out to the San Francisco Police Department and have offered our assistance if it's needed. 'Law enforcement are the right authorities in this situation, and we trust them to continue sharing updates as needed. 'Out of respect, we won't be commenting further.' A small patch of overgrown land located minutes from the idyllic tourist hotspot of Lake Windermere is set to be auctioned for just 95k. Despite appearing initially underwhelming, the plot has been described by estate agents Hackney & Leigh as a 'rare find' set in an excellent position. Advertised as a unique plot due to its fine views and only a 10 minute walk from the picturesque village of Bowness, Nicole Fallowfield, Assistant Branch Manager for Hackney & Leigh Windermere, said that a 95k asking price is actually a bargain for land typically sold in the local area. She added: 'These sorts of patches of land are not common to be honest, we haven't seen one like this for quite a few years now. 'We've seen other plots that can market for up to 300,000. Its going for a lot lower than usual so people will definitely be more interested. 'The owner likely just wants to get rid of it.' Only a two-minute drive from Lake Windermere, Englands largest lake, the tourist hotspot is one of the countrys most popular natural attractions, with up to 300,000 daily visitors during the peak summer months. The plot on 'quiet and peaceful' Beechwood Close also has the benefit of pre-approved planning permission for a detached three-storey, three-bedroom house, with there even space for a study in the roof area. A small patch of overgrown land located minutes from the idyllic tourist hotspot of Lake Windermere is on the market for just 95k and described as a 'rare find' Nicole Fallowfield, Assistant Branch Manager for Hackney & Leigh Windermere, has said that despite seeming relatively unappealing, a 95k asking price is actually a bargain for land typically sold in the local area The plot also has the benefit of pre-approved planning permission for a detached three-storey, three-bedroom house, with there even space for a study in the roof area The land will be bidded to prospective buyers at the next Auction House Cumbria event at 12pm on February 13 from 95,000. Affordable homes within the Lake District are becoming increasingly challenging to buy, with the area well-known for its high numbers of second homes and property lets due to the attractive wildlife, beautiful scenery and idyllic water. The average price of a property in Windermere was set at 495,8000 in 2024, an increase of six per cent in just one year alone. Ms Fallowfield also estimates that between 65 and 75 per cent of homes in the area are marketed as holiday lets or kept purely as second homes. A local charity report by Friends of the Lake District published in November last year recommended a tourist tax enforceable on hotel stays, parking or even driving to help manage the 'hallowing out' of the community, with the money then re-invested by local authorities and the Lake District National Park Authority. The pressures faced by local residents wanting to buy have even become so challenging that the National Park has been forced to restrict who is able to purchase homes. Now, often only those who have a 'local connection' to the area are entitled to buy certain properties or land plots, subject to particular exemptions. Your browser does not support iframes. Lake Windermere, Englands largest lake, is one of the countrys most popular natural attractions, receiving up to 300,000 daily visitors during its peak summer months To try and reduce the significant number of second homes and holiday lets in the Lake District, often properties are only allowed to be purchased by those with a 'local connection' to the area This particular land plot falls under such restriction, with the listing stating that the land must only be occupied by 'a person with a local connection as his or her only principal home, or the widow or widower of such a person, and any dependents of such a person living with him or her.' Ms Fallowfield, who is local to the Lakes, says she fully supports the restriction as a tool for helping local people wanting to get on the property ladder, adding: 'It is getting harder and harder for people to purchase homes now. These clauses are becoming quite common in this area because we need them for locals.' However, plots of land like this, she warns, may still not be everyone's dream home. She added: 'These plots don't tend to be very competitive because not everybody wants to put in the work and do an entire renovation. 'This land would be a great find though. You're a three minute walk into Bowness Village and you're also only a 10 minute walk from Windermere village as well, so you're right in the thick of it. It's a gorgeous area.' The secret depravity of the global elite coming to the World Economic Forum in Davos has been laid bare, with escort agencies revealing that the demand for sex parties, NDAs for prostitutes and transsexual women has increased. The forum, which started on Monday, has welcomed more than 3,000 business and political leaders to the Swiss Alps. But not just the global elite has flocked to the town, as escorts are more in demand than ever among those attending the event. And according to one website that organises what it calls 'dates you pay for', many of the arrivals are enjoying sex orgies - arranged by individuals who are booking multiple women at once. 'Since the start of the WEF, we've seen around 300 women and trans women been booked in Davos and the surrounding area,' Andreas Berger, spokesman for Titt4tat, told MailOnline. This is compared to about 170 women in 2024. 'In terms of the number of bookings for commercial intimacy, it was another record year for us [at the WEF],' Mr Berger said. 'There were significantly more sex parties than in previous years,' he added, based on the amount of escorts booked - 300 - by just around 90 customers compared to 140 last year. And it seems wealthy and powerful clients are also going to increased lengths to keep their sexual activities secret. 'What has changed is that a lot of women in and around Davos now have to sign NDAs [non-disclosure agreements]' Mr Berger said, adding that these agreements were often in English. The secret depravity of the global elite coming to the World Economic Forum in Davos has been laid bare, with escort agencies revealing that the demand for sex parties, NDAs for prostitutes and transsexual women has increased (stock image) The forum, which started on Monday, has welcomed more than 3,000 business and political leaders to the Swiss Alps 'We suspect that this is the consequence of recent news about sex parties in Hollywood.' Another escort agency boss revealed the most popular sex act requested by 'untouchable', powerful clients. 'Anal sex is actually one of the most frequently requested things,' says Susann from the Swiss Escort Avantgarde agency. She added about the type of clients hiring escorts at the WEF: 'These types of people consider themselves untouchable, which they often realistically are.' 'I think physical attacks on escort ladies, for example to live out a certain BDSM fetish, are absolutely conceivable,' Susann continued. 'In my experience, the higher a man's professional/social rank, the lower his inhibition threshold for violence against women is.' In terms of the clients at the WEF, another agency revealed: 'CEOs and politicians from large cities that are also represented at the WEF are just as much a part of our customer base as they are in everyday life. Escorts hired during the WEF have to offer a particular skill set to appeal to clients, according to Susann from the Swiss Escort Avantgarde agency 'Of course I can only speak for our agency, but conversations with other agencies and models show that many men use these services. 'The main difference lies less in the event itself, but rather in the type of agency and the respective price segment they serve - which often correlates with the customers' income. 'Our agency operates in the high-class segment, which also reflects our typical customer base.' 'Our models are usually bilingual, as we address a more sophisticated and high-quality clientele,' Jan and Lia from exclusive agency Lia Models echoed, adding that the in-demand languages were English as the main language and German or French. 'In Davos, people like to show off in the evenings alongside a particularly eye-catching and attractive woman who is introduced as a companion or friend. 'It is advantageous if the companion is not only visually convincing, but also intelligent and quick-witted. 'Ultimately, it is important that the date runs harmoniously and that the companion conveys credibly that she is the client's partner. 'Elegance, style and the ability to comfortable manoeuver at a high social level take centre stage. A confident appearance is essential in order to meet customer expectations in this exclusive environment.' Jan and Lia from the Lia Models escort agency said that major events like WEF would generally lead to an increased interest in escorts due to 'many high-ranking and solvent guests arriving from all over the world' Discretion, all three providers have urged, is of utmost importance in the escort business Of course, the main reason escorts flock to Davos for WEF is to make money - with eye-watering rates charged during the event and some women easily commanding 6,000 per booking. But the amounts are nothing to the wealthy clients, the various escort agencies agree - and their customers typically pay for several hours of 'company' with the women. Titt4tat's Mr Berger added that the average booking duration at the WEF is four hours, which combined with the average hourly rate and the 300 bookings on Titt4Tat during the first three days of the WEF alone would amount to about CHF300,000 (270,000). 'But there are other providers and agencies. My estimate would be about 1 million CHF (900,000) in total,' Mr Berger added. In the sun-drenched corners of Spain, where millions of tourists flock to enjoy its pristine beaches, ancient history and vibrant culture, a storm is brewing in the world of property investment. Spain's socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has proposed a controversial plan to impose a 100 per cent property tax on non-EU nationals looking to buy in the country - with Brits to be the hardest hit. The move, aimed at addressing Spain's growing housing crisis, would force British sunseekers to pay double to buy property in Spain and would shatter the dreams of people hoping to relocate, while the owners of existing homes fear they may struggle to find a buyer. A Place in the Sun presenter Laura Hamilton, who helps Brits find their dream home abroad and recently purchased a property of her own in Mallorca, branded Sanchez's plan 'crazy' - but said it was already backfiring for the Spanish PM. 'I just think it's bonkers. Bonkers!' Laura told MailOnline. 'It can't happen. It's crazy. Nothing at the moment has been confirmed, so really it's all speculation, but it's scaremongering and making people worry.' While Spain's housing market has been under pressure for years, with locals struggling to find affordable homes amid rising rents, Laura argues that the proposed tax is not the right solution. 'It's a worldwide problem: The housing crisis is happening everywhere in the EU. It's not just Spain,' she said. 'I mean, we're talking about housing in the UK as well, it's the same issue.' A Place in the Sun presenter Laura Hamilton says Spain's planned tax rise on second homes for Brits won't work Tenerife locals hold placards raising concerns about the impact of mass tourism, October 2024 Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has vowed to ban non-resident Brits from buying homes in Spain as he desperately tries to tackle the country's housing crisis Laura believes the 100 per cent property tax would likely do more harm than good - and thinks it is unlikely to become law. And remarkably she says the proposal has already backfired for the Spanish PM, as Brits and other non-EU investors rush in to snap up properties before any new law comes into force. 'We've been speaking to local estate agents in Spain and the Balearics. They were all saying that because it's being reported that there's a chance of a tax increase for non-EU property buyers, it's actually driven more interest,' Laura said. 'People are thinking, "Right, we need to buy now, just in case." It's having the opposite effect of what they actually want it to have.' House-buyers in the country are currently expected to pay costs and taxes worth between 10 and 12 per cent of the price of the house, depending on where it is. Any change to those rules would have to be approved by Parliament. 'I'm of the opinion that it's not going to happen. It would be very difficult for him [Pedro Sanchez] to pass,' Laura said. 'The other political parties won't support it. There's just too much to get it through.' Laura's concerns are not unfounded. According to property market experts, the tax could lead to a decline in foreign investment, particularly from non-EU nationals, who already face stringent visa and residency requirements. Laura Hamilton is renovating her own home in Mallora after purchasing it last year Demonstrators march shouting slogans in downtown Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, June 19 The global demand for Spanish property has been fuelled by non-EU buyers, particularly from the UK and other countries outside the European Union. While it's true that Spain has seen a surge in foreign investment, especially in places like the Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands, Laura believes the market is still largely driven by buyers who want to make a positive contribution to the local economy - not by speculators looking to exploit the system. 'If you're just looking to buy one property, you're investing in the country and you're bringing positivity to that then I think any kind of massive increase is harsh,' she said. Laura also expressed concern that imposing such a heavy tax would push foreign buyers to look elsewhere, potentially damaging Spain's reputation as a desirable place to invest. 'There are other countries out there where you can buy holiday properties. If tax rates are increased, people will look to places like Portugal or France, countries where there are already attractive property options,' she said. Even in the US, where property prices have been rising in places like Florida and California, many international buyers are drawn by less restrictive policies. Beyond the political and economic implications of the tax, Laura is concerned about the broader context - the global housing crisis. In 2023 alone, non-residents from outside of the EU bought 27,000 houses and flats in Spain, 'not to live in them, but mainly to speculate', Pedro Sanchez said (Altea pictured) Laura also expressed concern that imposing such a heavy tax would push foreign buyers to look elsewhere 'Everyone is struggling with the cost of housing,' she said, referencing the crisis both in Spain and in the UK. 'The UK property market is just as tough. I bought my first house at 19, and it's so different now. The cost of living, the cost of housing, it's all gone up.' Her comments highlight the fact that the housing crisis isn't isolated to Spain or even Europe. However, the idea of taxing foreign property buyers to solve the housing crisis in Spain is overly simplistic. The country is grappling with rising housing costs, but placing blame solely on foreign buyers is misguided. 'So many countries overseas rely on tourism. They need us! It's absolutely not about tourists,' Laura said. The A Place in the Sun presenter herself recently joined the ranks of foreign property owners in Spain, buying a house in Mallorca. 'I bought my house in Mallorca last August. It's a big renovation project on a grand design scale,' she shared. 'Half of it is currently demolished, and I'm in the process of putting it back together. I wish I'd bought my house in Mallorca long ago.' Ultimately, she remains optimistic about the future of Spain's property market, but only if the government refrains from pushing through drastic measures like the proposed 100 per cent tax. 'It's all speculation at the moment,' she said. 'It's scaremongering. Until anything's actually passed, you shouldn't be worried.' The 100 per cent tax would put rocket boosters under Spain's famously affordable property prices, with a five-bed coastal villa in Andalucia that's currently being advertised for just under 400,000 For now, potential property buyers in Spain, particularly non-EU nationals, are left waiting for clarity. 'It's a crazy idea, and I can't see it happening. I think people should do their research, get good advice, and if you want to buy abroad, just do it,' Laura said. Spain is one of the worst hit by demand for vacation properties, welcoming more than 88.5 million visitors in 2024 alone. 'Overtourism' is felt by locals desperate to afford their own homes, increasingly taking to the streets to demand action. But Spaniards are not alone in their battle for affordable housing and sustainable tourism practices. In Portugal, similar problems with short-term holiday rentals and a shortage of affordable housing has seen residents mobilise in cities across the country with banners decrying: 'I have to choose between paying for a house or eating.' France took steps late last year to temper growing frustration over the availability of housing, passing a long-awaited bill to tighten regulations on the short-term tourist rental market. The number of such rentals grew from 300,000 to 1.2 million between 2016 and 2024. Tourists are also flocking further east in search of less expensive accommodation and properties to buy as summer homes or medium-term investments. The Greek government was pressed to act last year, announcing a sweeping ban on short-term rental licences in three central districts in Athens due to 'a lot of pressure on society'. Sanchez noted that in 2023 alone, non-residents from outside of the EU bought 27,000 houses and flats in Spain, 'not to live in them, but mainly to speculate'. He said this was 'something that, in the context of the shortages we are experiencing, we cannot afford'. The nation might be divided over whether Friday is 'Australia Day' or 'Invasion Day' but historians say some basic facts should be remembered about the date. The First Fleet sailed from England with explicit instructions that no Indigenous people were to be harmed when it arrived in New South Wales. When the fleet landed at Sydney Cove in Port Jackson on January 26, 1788, no shots were fired and no one was physically hurt. Whether the country was 'invaded' or 'settled' - as much as what occurred over the next two centuries - is at the heart of the debate over how and when we mark Australia Day. The 1992 Mabo decision granting native title to Indigenous Australians relied on the country having been settled, not invaded. In that ruling the High Court rejected the 'terra nullius' doctrine - that the landmass belonged to no one - without overturning the view the continent had been settled. In the 236 years following the First Fleet's arrival, terrible injustices against Aboriginal people took place. All of those atrocities - the massacres, the human rights abuses and discrimination - form part of the argument over whether the nation should change the date of Australia Day. The First Fleet sailed from England with explicit instructions that upon its arrival in New South Wales the country's inhabitants were not to be harmed Above is an oil painting by Algernon Talmadge of Captain Arthur Phillip raising the flag at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788 Whether the country was 'invaded' or 'settled' - as much as what occurred over the next two centuries - is at the heart of the debate over how and when we mark Australia Day But what really happened on January 26, 1788? The Royal Navy's Captain Arthur Phillip had been empowered under British law by King George III to establish a penal colony in NSW. The land he was ordered to settle had been occupied by Aborigines for perhaps 60,000 years but was not legally recognised as a sovereign nation. Eleven ships under Phillip's command left Portsmouth in May 1787 with about 1,400 men, women and children on board, bound for Botany Bay. The ships were small, each one no bigger than a Manly ferry. Leading the fleet were two Royal Navy vessels accompanying three store ships and six convict transports. Among Phillip's instructions upon reaching his destination were that Aboriginal lives and livelihoods be protected and friendly relations with them established. The First Fleet's initial landing was gradual, with ships arriving between January 18 and 20 at Botany Bay, south of Port Jackson, where James Cook had dropped anchor 18 years earlier. When the First Fleet landed at Sydney Cove in Port Jackson on January 26, 1788, no shots were fired and no one was physically hurt. The Sydney Opera House is pictured lit up with artwork by Indigenous artist Brett Leavy on Friday According to the NSW Migration Heritage Centre, local Aboriginal people met the fleet in an 'uneasy stand-off' at what is now called Frenchmans Beach at La Perouse. There was no violence on that occasion. Unsatisfied with Botany Bay as a suitable site to establish a colony, on January 21 Phillip led a small party in three boats to explore other options further north. He entered Port Jackson, which he later described in a letter as 'the finest harbour in the world, in which a thousand sail of the line may ride in the most perfect security'. Phillip's party returned to Botany Bay two days later to find representatives of another colonial power exploring the coast. On January 24, two French ships from the scientific expedition led by Jean-Francois de La Perouse were seen just outside Botany Bay. The French, who stayed at Botany Bay until March 10, fired upon Aboriginal people in February. Eleven ships under Phillip's command left Portsmouth in May 1787 with about 1,400 men, women and children on board, bound for Botany Bay. Phillip is depicted at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788 On January 26, the First Fleet headed to Port Jackson, landing at a spot Phillip called Sydney Cove after Lord Sydney, the British Home Secretary. Only Phillip and several officers and marines from the navy vessel Supply initially went ashore, with the rest of those on board watching from the water. The British flag was planted in a short ceremony and formal possession was declared. The other 10 ships of the fleet did not arrive until later in the day. There was no armed conflict with the local Eora people. Phillip's instructions regarding the land's existing inhabitants were that he would 'conciliate their affections', to 'live in amity and kindness with them.' He was to punish anyone who should 'wantonly destroy them, or give them any unnecessary interruption in the exercise of their several occupations'. Phillip's instructions regarding the land's existing inhabitants were that he would 'conciliate their affections', to 'live in amity and kindness with them.' La Perouse Gamay dancers are pictured at Bondi Beach for a dawn reflection and smoking ceremony on Friday Those instructions were standard British orders for the time and initially were largely followed. Writing in the Dictionary of Sydney, historian Grace Karskens said: 'Phillip and the officers were genuinely committed to establishing and maintaining friendly and peaceful relations'. 'The early meetings in Botany Bay and Port Jackson were often marked by friendliness, curiosity, gift-giving and dancing together on the beaches. 'This is so entirely different from earlier violent and murderous encounters between Europeans and Indigenous people. 'It is also very different from the frontier violence that dominated pastoral expansion in Australia well into the twentieth century. In that sense it was enlightened and humane.' Professor Karskens declared the arrival of the First Fleet and the establishment of a small camp at Sydney Cove was momentous only in that 'it marked the origins of a great city'. 'But at the time it was just a tiny pinprick on the edge of a vast and ancient Aboriginal continent - it made barely a ripple at first,' he wrote. As the colony spread, so did the violence and more and more land was taken. A protester is pictured holding a sign at an Invasion Day rally in Sydney on Friday 'From this perspective, the idea that Phillip's first footfall on the beach in Botany Bay brought instant death and corruption across the entire continent is Eurocentric nonsense. 'Aboriginal people did not drop dead or lose their culture the moment they saw a white person.' Professor Karskens noted the Eora did immediately have to cope with an alarming influx of strangers on their lands and waterways. 'Phillip did forbid anyone from shooting or otherwise harming Eora,' he wrote. 'But by anyone he meant convicts. He had them severely punished for doing so and for stealing from Eora. 'But this did not mean that officers and other military did not shoot at Aboriginal people - they did, usually with small shot - usually because warriors were throwing spears and stones at them.' According to Professor Karskens, the first fatal shooting might not have happened until September 1789 when a Henry Hacking shot into a group of Aboriginal people out hunting on the North Shore. As the colony spread in the years to come, so did the violence. More and more land was taken and massacres did occur across the continent. Many Australians believe all of those wrongs should be the sole focus of each anniversary of the First Fleet arriving at Sydney Cove on January 26, 1788. But there was no violent confrontation on that first Australia Day. Indigenous Australians were called 'blacks' and 'natives' at the time of white settlement and over the past two centuries have been subjected to far more racist labels. But as the term 'First Nations people' has become more popular in recent years, one word widely used in the past is now considered by some to have offensive implications: 'Aborigine'. Human rights group Amnesty International advises on its website against calling someone an Aborigine, even if they are Aboriginal. "'Aborigine" is generally perceived as insensitive because it has racist connotations from Australia's colonial past, and lumps people with diverse backgrounds into a single group,' it states. 'You're more likely to make friends by saying "Aboriginal person", "Aboriginal" or "Torres Strait Islander". 'If you can, try using the person's clan or tribe name. And if you are talking about both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it's best to say either "Indigenous Australians" or "Indigenous people".' The Macquarie Dictionary defines an Aborigine as 'a member of a tribal people, the earliest known inhabitants of Australia' or 'a descendant of this people'. It also warns the word can cause offence and suggests using other descriptions. The word 'Aborigine' now has offensive implications for many Aboriginal Australians and lexicographers 'The nouns Aborigine(s) and Aboriginal(s) are considered by some to carry negative, even derogatory, connotations,' the Macquarie states. 'The use of Aboriginal as an adjective, forming noun phrases such as Aboriginal people, Aboriginal woman, Aboriginal Australian etc is preferred by many. 'The adjective Indigenous can be used to encompass both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 'Indigenous Australians from particular regions of Australia are also sometimes referred to by names from Indigenous languages.' Aboriginal people have increasingly identified themselves by language groups, using phrases such as 'Bundjalung man' or 'Noongar woman'. 'Koori' is still used to more generally describe an Aboriginal person from most of NSW and Victoria, as is 'Murri' for those from northern NSW and Queensland. The Creative Spirits website, which provides research material about Aboriginal culture, recommends using 'First Nations people'. 'People have used many terms for Australia's First Peoples,' it states. 'Early terms were utterly racist and remain offensive. 'Then "Indigenous" was very popular before the politically more correct "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander" replaced it. 'But all these terms were coined by non-Indigenous people. The new term that is emerging in Australia now is "First Nations people(s)". Creative Sprits says that term should be preferred because Aboriginal people inhabited Australia before anyone else and formed nations rather than small groups. Aboriginal people have increasingly identified themselves by language groups, using phrases such as 'Bundjalung man' or 'Noongar woman' 'Each nation, just like any other nation on the planet, has its own culture, history and language,' it states. 'The plural, nations, alludes to the diversity of all nations within Australia.' In rejecting the use of 'Aborigine', Creative Spirits quotes Maria Tomasic, former president Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. She has stated: 'Aboriginal people are a diverse group of individuals and use of the term "Aborigine" has negative connotations imposed during colonisation and can perpetuate prejudice and discrimination'. Aboriginal academic Anthony Dillon does not find 'Aborigine' offensive Creative Sprits also does not like 'Indigenous' because it 'generalises mainland and islander cultures into one, ignoring the many different cultures that exist'. The Aboriginal Advisory Group from Community Legal Centres NSW suggests using 'Aboriginal people' or 'Aboriginal person' which it says are both 'more positive and empowering'. Anthony Dillon, an academic and commentator on Indigenous affairs who identifies as both Aboriginal and Australian, has no problem with 'Aborigine'. 'There is nothing offensive about the term Aborigine,' he has written. Dr Dillon believes some Indigenous people don't like 'Aborigine' because it might conjure images of 'someone who is clearly and unmistakably a full-blooded Aboriginal person'. 'There are plenty of people out there with some Aboriginal ancestry who are indistinguishable from white fellas but they insist on being called an "Aboriginal person",' he has written. Labor's Albo problem Labor MPs are beginning to panic about Anthony Albanese's capacity to mount a strong campaign against the Coalition and Peter Dutton after the first major opinion poll of the year had Albo trailing on the preferred PM rating. 'It's such a bad sign', an MP, who didn't want to be named, tells me. 'He wasn't great last time; it's hard to have much confidence in him now', the disillusioned Labor insider adds. The government can't afford to lose more than one seat without losing its wafer-thin majority. Twelve of its seats are held on margins of less than four per cent. The respected Resolve opinion poll released last week revealed a four per cent swing against Labor compared with the 2022 election result. 'The problem is, if Albo is already less popular than Dutton, and the campaign hasn't even started, and we know he's not a particularly good campaigner, how are we going to improve?' the Labor MP laments. Victoria may turn out to be the most problematic state for the government. The state Labor government is on the nose and Liberals are anticipating a big swing their way. Labor MPs are beginning to panic about Anthony Albanese's capacity to mount a strong campaign. The PM is pictured with his partner Jodie Haydon in July 2023 'It was supposed to be the state we picked up seats against Peter Dutton,' the MP says. 'So much for that!' The Victorian breakdown of the latest polling numbers sees Labor's primary vote falling to just 25 per cent, well below what it was at the last election and lower than the national vote. The fear within Labor circles is that if the tide goes out in Victoria, the government might struggle to retain enough seats to compete for minority government. 'We can't afford to let our share of seats drop below the Coalition's,' the Labor MP warns. 'If that happens, they'll find it easier to convince teals to back them in.' If just 10 seats change hands between the major parties, the Coalition should win more lower house seats than Labor. But there are certainly no guarantees. Meanwhile, the Liberals are worried about Western Australia, where an electoral route last time delivered Albo his majority. Which explains why visiting the west was part of Albo's January campaign blitz. A Liberal candidate tells us Dutton is going to need to do all the heavy lifting this election Our Labor insider claims if the PM is serious about leading the government into a second term he needs to prove that he hasn't already checked out: 'He can do that by listening to more people around him. Not just Penny and his lefty mates.' The MP claims a winning strategy will require senior ministers around Albo to 'step up'. 'He's [the prime minister], not a details guy. He needs Jim [Chalmers] and others like Jason [Clare] and Ed [Husic] to play significant roles, a bit like they did last time. But it's even more important now.' At the 2022 election, Albo fell ill with Covid during the third week of the campaign. Many saw it as Labor's best week. With the then-opposition leader housebound, those around him took the lead and helped cement the view that Labor had a credible alternative cabinet. Jason Clare is likely to once again take on the role of campaign spokesperson. 'My biggest worry is that voters have already made up their minds about us, and that's hard to overcome especially if they think Albo's no good,' the insider says. 'We're all going to have to buckle down and do what we can locally to hold on, because we can't bank on help from above.' Dutton the one-man band While Labor insiders worry about their leaders capacity to win a campaign, younger Liberals are looking at the opposition and wondering who Peter Dutton has around him capable of tying their own shoelaces. It really is a one-man show on the wrong side of the Treasury benches. Dutton is defying expectations and improving in the polls, but what about the team around him? One Liberal candidate tells Daily Mail Australia that finding two official campaign spokespeople is a challenge in and of itself. 'Jane [Hume] and James Paterson are probably the only two names you can rely on not to botch their lines,' the Liberal candidate says. '[Treasurer] Angus Taylor just isn't very good and Sussan [Ley] is a risky deputy prone to putting her foot in her mouth. There's not a great deal of talent there.' It's not unusual for oppositions to rely heavily on their leaders. That's great when they are popular (think Bob Hawke in 1983), less so when they aren't (Bill Shorten managed to lose the unlosable 2019 election). Two years ago a Dutton-only strategy for a campaign would have scared the Liberals and energised the Labor government, but not anymore. 'Dutts will need to do all the heavy lifting if we're going to win, or come close to winning,' the insider says. 'After that it's up to each one of us to run good local campaigns.' I'm tipping Albo to call the election on Sunday March 9, immediately after the WA state election the day before. Liberal party stalwart's teal defection Heather Ruddock will help Tina Brown's teal campaign against sitting Liberal MP Julian Leeser The wife of Phillip Ruddock, Attorney General during the Howard years, has quit the Liberal Party to campaign for Brown The wife of Phillip Ruddock, Attorney General during the Howard years, has quit the Liberal Party to campaign for teal independent Tina Brown in her husband's former seat of Berowra. Heather Ruddock says the party has lost touch with its base, whatever that means. She's also concerned it's not moderate enough in some policy areas. She'll help the local teal campaign against sitting Liberal MP Julian Leeser. While Heather can do whatever she likes, obviously, it's hard not to think bitterness and spite are bigger drivers of her decision to turn on a party she has supported for most of her life. The same party that gave her husband a long federal political career, a parliamentary pension for life (including hers), and even allowed him to cling to life as an elected representative after his 43 years (not a typo) in federal parliament came to an end (Phillip served as Liberal party mayor on Sydney's north shore for another seven years). I'm sure Heather's change of heart has nothing to do with Leeser wanting to take over from Ruddock in the federal seat of Berowra. Or suggesting to the then 81-year-old that just maybe he should consider retiring from his mayoral role. And even if you really do think the Liberal Party isn't moderate enough for your tastes, where was Heather the protestor during her husband's reign as AG and immigration minister, rejecting the Tampa and locking up children in offshore asylum centres? We heard from the Ruddock children with concerns back then, but not Heather. Besides, of all the Liberal MPs to target for not being moderate enough, why Leeser? He resigned as Peter Dutton's shadow Attorney General because he disagreed with his leader on the Voice referendum. That's right, Leeser campaigned for the Voice, alongside a gaggle of teals by the way. So methinks Heather's newfound concerns with the Liberal Party are jaded by a dislike of Leeser and little more. He's probably the most teal-like Liberal MP left in the parliament for God's sake. A bizarre property in Liverpool - only just big enough for the average dining chair - could vie for the title of Britain's skinniest home. With locals saying it is only two feet wide inside, there is certainly not enough room to swing a cat in this home - let alone move in most average domestic furniture. But despite its odd design, residents living near the dinky property just a short walk from Goodison Park stadium said it has been in constant use over the years. The two-storey detached house in the Walton area of the city was a cobblers, a general shop, an antiques seller and a military regalia shop in the past. It is now used as rented accommodation - with the property, incredibly, divided up into even smaller flats inside. Luckily for prospective tenants, though, it widens out at the other side, with its skinniest end the corner of a sharp wedge shape. House prices in the area average at around 75,000 - but this quirky house last changed hands for 38,500 in 2013. Pensioner Eileen Hunter, who grew up in Walton, knows a lot about the history of the building. This bizarre property in Liverpool - only just big enough for the average dining chair - could be a strong contender for the title of Britain's skinniest home Locals said this bizarre property in the Walton area of the city, just a short walk from Goodison Park stadium, is just two feet wide inside Pensioner Eileen Hunter (pictured), who grew up in Walton, knows a lot about the history of this dinky property The two-storey, detached building has a sharp wedge shape. It has been a cobblers, a general shop, an antiques seller and a military regalia shop and is now used as rented accommodation Giving the term 'shoebox room' a whole new meaning, she told MailOnline: 'There was always a cobblers in the corner unit. It was fairly cramped inside. 'I also remember a little shop there too. But for me it was always the cobblers. 'Walton was very different then, shall we say. A lot more local, whereas now people just come and go. You don't know who you are living next door to anymore. I have always liked the building but would not want live there. Just a bit too quirky for me.' Gary Reeves, who was born and raised in Walton, told MailOnline the interesting historical reason the building is shaped the way it is: 'That property was built after the Second World War. 'That area was heavily bombed as the Germans targeted the railway lines during the war. Some strange buildings popped up on the resulting bomb sites.' The 60-year-old builder, who used to walk to secondary school everyday via the alley at the back of the property, added: 'That particular building was a shop of varying types but upstairs was a "flat" of sorts. 'It does widen with the line of the rear alley but inside was only probably two feet at its tightest - I went inside once.' Local man Gary Reeves told MailOnline the building is shaped so unusually because it was built around a bomb site following heavy targeting of Liverpool by the Germans during World War Two Debris from the Second World War on Jamaica Street, Liverpool - still there in March 1959 when this image was taken, 14 years after the war ended Being a port city, Liverpool and areas around it were key German targets during World War Two. Across Merseyside, more than 4,000 civilians were killed, 10,000 homes were destroyed and 70,000 people were made homeless. Nearly a third of houses in Liverpool were damaged or destroyed. Gary said there was an antiques shop on the ground floor of the building at one stage. And in keeping with the building's military history, he added: 'For a while it also sold medals and army memorabilia.' George Liderth, who lives across the road from the building, also remembers it from his school days, like Gary. George, now retired, told MailOnline: 'It used to be a shop. We would call in on our way home from school and buy sweets.' Similarly to Eileen and Gary, George said: 'I think there was also a cobblers in there and then a military regalia shop.' George Liderth, who lives across the road from the building, said many of the homes in the terrace next to the odd property were built in the 1920s The retiree remembered the property from his school days - a shop at the time, he used to buy sweets there Pensioner Eileen, pictured, said she has always liked the building but would not live there herself - it is too quirky for her The retiree explained many of the homes in the terrace next to the odd property were built in the 1920s. He said: 'If you look carefully you can sense that 1920s look. However just down the road you can see the homes that were built by merchants. 'They are much older and have a very distinct style.' Amazingly, the tiny, wedge cheese-like property is divided up even further into flats. George said he thought the two flats inside the quirky end of the building were rented out. He said: 'People just come and go. Properties around here are near the two grounds (Goodison and Anfield) so can be rented out quite easily. 'We could rent out our house if we wanted.' Local man Eddie Smith said: 'I think estate agents would describe it as snug or cosy. Something along those lines. Builder Gary, 60, used to walk to secondary school everyday via the alley at the back of the property Local man John Kelly said there were a few similar buildings in Liverpool - one in Kirkdale and a few in south Liverpool John also said the Flat Iron Building in Prescot, named for its wedge shape, looks similar to this odd house The other side of the detached building, pictured, is wider than its skinniest two-feet end The slim, wedge-shaped house stands out compared to other properties on the street 'But in the city centre we have a few buildings that are New York style. Water Street always reminds me of a bit of Manhattan.' John Kelly, who lives nearby, said: 'You know there are a few other buildings like that in Liverpool. 'There is one in Kirkdale and a few in south Liverpool. And a famous one out in Prescot.' Prescots Flat Iron building, on Eccleston Street, was designed by Thomas Dennett in the 1890s. The curious building was later used as a watchmaking factory, and warehouse. Today, Liverpool is famous for its Three Graces on the city's waterfront, and Georgian Quarter near the Anglican Cathedral with rows of period homes and terraced streets. Many in the city now described Bramley Moore Dock, Everton's new ground, as the city's fourth grace. There was nothing out of the ordinary when Jennifer Kesse called her parents on the night of January 23, 2006. The 24-year-old had just returned home to Florida from a long weekend vacation with her boyfriend Rob and his family to St Croix and she was regaling her family with stories about what a great time she had. 'She had gone down for the weekend and she had called from St Croix to say 'hey Dad it's great, I can't believe how nice the islands are,' her father Drew Kesse tells Dailymail.com. 'And I was like 'Jennifer you're only there for two days, just go enjoy it. I can talk to you later on,' he laughs. 'But she just always kept in contact.' She and Rob then returned to his home in Fort Lauderdale, and she had made the two-hour journey back to her own place in Orlando in time for work Monday morning. When she went home that night, she called Rob, some friends and her family again. 'She told us about her trip, how she had a great time and it was now, you know, back to work. Everything was just normal. She was telling us how much fun it was and it was just a recap of the great weekend she had,' says Kesse. 'Everything was great in Jennifer's life. Honestly, it was a fab time in her life. She was just taking off on that young adult path that we'd all love to have. She was enjoying life - as she should have been.' That would be the last time Jennifer's family ever heard from her. Jennifer Kesse's father Drew Kesse (pictured together) hopes that, after 19 years, the family will finally get the truth about what happened to her Jennifer's dad fears she was abducted and immediately trafficked out of the US by someone she didn't know Surveillance footage captured a person of interest leaving Jennifer's car at another condo complex on the day she disappeared The next day would become what Kesse describes as the 'day hell came to visit.' And what has since followed is almost two decades living without Jennifer, with no answers, no suspects and no credible leads about her sudden disappearance. 'That day, hell came to visit. And we have not been able to put a trail on Jennifer since that day. We're now 19 years out and we don't have any direction,' says Kesse. But now, 19 years to the day she vanished without a trace, Jennifer's dad is hopeful a new team of investigators and a chilling piece of surveillance footage will finally hold the key to bringing his daughter home. It was January 24, 2006, the morning after those final phone calls to her loved ones, and Jennifer had failed to show up to her job as a finance manager at Central Florida Investments Timeshare Company. Concerned that this was out of character, her colleagues called her parents, who lived around two hours away. 'I said I would give her a call,' says Kesse. 'Since she was 15 and we gave her a phone and a car that was the first time she never answered and it went straight to voicemail. We immediately knew right then that something was wrong. We took off for Orlando immediately.' Grainy footage shows a figure who cops want to speak to Kesse and his wife, Jennifer's mom Joyce, drove straight to their daughter's condo complex Mosaic at Millenia. Inside her condo, everything appeared to be as it should be. Jennifer's pajamas were on the floor, a damp towel was by the shower, her hair tools looked as though they'd not long been used and the front door was locked. Her car, a 2004 Chevy Malibu, was gone, as was her cellphone, purse, iPod and keys. All the signs pointed to that Jennifer had gotten up that morning as normal, got ready and left for work. Her parents called police to report her missing and organized a huge search to desperately try to find their daughter. Two days later, on January 26, 2006, Jennifer's car was found abandoned around one mile away at a different condo complex at Huntington on the Green. There was no sign of Jennifer. Her phone, purse, iPod and keys were also never found. Grainy surveillance footage from the complex had captured a mystery individual parking her car there and walking off at around 12pm on the day Jennifer went missing. Jennifer's dad says that 'everything was great in Jennifer's life' when she just vanished one morning in January 2006 The Kesse family has spent 19 years and around $700,000 desperately searching for the missing 24-year-old A team at NASA was brought on board to try to enhance the footage to get a clear picture of this person of interest who could hold a critical clue to Jennifer's whereabouts. But, despite these efforts, it was impossible to get a clear shot of the individual's face because it was obscured by fencing. To this day, the person of interest - believed to be a man around 5 foot 3 to 5 foot 5 tall with unusually large feet for his height and dressed in workman's clothes - has never been identified. Over the last 19 years, 14,000 tips have poured in, rewards have been offered, and multiple people have been questioned by police. But no solid evidence has ever been found, no credible leads have materialized and what happened to Jennifer remains a mystery. 'It's just gone nowhere,' Kesse says of the investigation. 'After 19 years, it's just unfathomable that we don't even have any direction.' Jennifer's dad is adamant that someone, somewhere must know something about what happened to his daughter. 'More than one person knows what happened,' he says, as he implores them to come forward, no matter how small the information. When Jennifer's car was found back in 2006, investigators noticed signs of what appeared to be a struggle on the hood of the vehicle (pictured) 'If you know anything about Jennifer please just go to a lawyer, go to the police if you feel comfortable, or go to a priest if you feel comfortable doing that,' he says. 'Just get the information into law enforcement's hands and they'll take it from there.' Kesse believes that the grainy surveillance footage of the mystery individual holds the key to finding out the truth. 'Someone must know who that is [in the footage]. Someone has to know,' he says. 'If you know that person, you would look at that and know who that is. You can look at a picture and go 'oh yeah, that's my cousin, that's my son.' 'That [footage] is really the only thing we have, period.' The Kesse family blames the poor progress in Jennifer's case on a lack of urgency from local police when she first went missing. While the family knew Jennifer would never have disappeared voluntarily, Kesse says they had a fight on their hands to get the Orlando Police Department to take the case seriously. 'They did not take it seriously at all. We knew something was wrong right away and we called the police and we met them four hours after Jennifer didn't show up for work,' he says. The Mosaic at Millenia condo complex in Orlando where Jennifer lived. Inside her condo, everything appeared to be as it should be on the morning of her disappearance At the time of her disappearance, construction workers were carrying out work at the complex and Jennifer had confided that some of the men made her feel uncomfortable, her family says 'But the first police officer looked round her apartment and said 'oh she probably had a fight with her boyfriend, she'll be back' and walked out. And that's when we lost Jennifer.' The push for action was made more challenging due to the fact that, at the time of Jennifer's disappearance in 2006, Florida's laws around missing persons did not include searching for adults. In 2008, the Jennifer Kesse and Tiffany Sessions Missing Persons Act was passed by the Florida legislature, reforming the state's missing persons laws to include adults deemed missing and endangered. 'To get [law enforcement's] attention that Jennifer needed their help and to get the right people involved along the way has been a struggle,' Kesse says. 'So in the early days, when they didn't go straight out to look for her we got our own team. So we had our own team of 13 investigators and a legal team on Jennifer's case. You have to do what others aren't willing to do.' He adds: 'We're very loud people. We don't take no for an answer so it's a matter of people recognizing the Kesses are not going to walk away. We're not that type of people. We believe that no one in America or anywhere should just be left missing.' In 2018, following years of frustration with the state of the investigation, the family took the unprecedented step of suing the Orlando Police Department to close the case so that all records could be released. The files, including 16,000 pages of records and 67 hours of video and audio, were ultimately handed over to the Kesse family and their own private investigator, while the Orlando police stood down from the investigation. Since getting their hands on the records, Kesse says the private investigator has found other leads that weren't followed up on properly. Jennifer Kesse (seen in missing person's poster) had just returned from a long weekend vacation at the time of her disappearance When Jennifer's car was found back in 2006, investigators noticed signs of what appeared to be a struggle on the hood of the vehicle. 'The hood of the car had marks on it. It looked like someone had been pushed on top of the car and their hands and fingers had scraped down the hood of the car,' says Kesse. But, he says that part of the car was never tested for DNA. 'So we lost a lead there too,' he says. 'There was a lot of things that were not done as it wasn't taken seriously. 'I'm angry that some people in law enforcement at the time didn't do their jobs properly. And it just went from one mistake to another mistake to another mistake. They destroyed Jennifer's chances of being found.' Dailymail.com has contacted Orlando Police for comment. Over the years, Jennifer's family members have poured more than $700,000 of their own money into trying to find her but now those funds have dried up. The family is now appealing for donations through GoFundMe to keep her case alive. In 2022, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement took on the investigation and Kesse believes Jennifer's case is now finally being taken seriously. Investigators have spoken to over 60 people in the last year alone, followed up on dozens of leads and evidence has been submitted for new DNA testing. Now, he is hopeful that, finally, the family will get some answers. 'They have put full energy into trying to find out what happened to Jennifer,' he says. 'It seems as though now, after 19 years, it's Jennifer's time.' 'There's been over 14,000 leads and nothing has made sense, nothing has been real. So we're just waiting for that one that does,' he adds. As the years have passed, in the absence of answers, several theories have emerged about what happened to Jennifer. Speculation has often fallen on construction workers who were carrying out work at the 24-year-old's condo complex at the time of her disappearance. Some workers were staying in the empty condos and Jennifer had confided that some of the men made her feel uncomfortable, according to the family's GoFundMe. A set of keys for the complex had also been stolen around the time of her disappearance, the family says. Kesse feels certain that Jennifer wasn't taken by someone she knew. 'She was liked by everyone who knew her. Myself and her mother don't know one person who disliked Jennifer,' he says. 'She lit up a room. And people say this about their kids all the time but I can honestly say this about Jennifer. She was just one of those special people in the world.' He believes the 24-year-old was abducted and immediately trafficked out of the US by someone she didn't know. 'I think it was a job for someone - probably to pay off a debt of some sort - and they came, did the job and then left. I don't think she is in the country and I don't think she was in the country very quickly,' he says. 'I don't think it was about Jennifer but they wanted a beautiful white woman with blue eyes and blond hair.' For Kesse, he has also come to the heart-wrenching conclusion that his daughter is no longer alive. Over the years, Jennifer's family has poured more than $700,000 of their own money into trying to find her 'Her mom thinks differently - she thinks she's still out there, that we're going to find her alive and we just have to keep going,' he says. 'I don't believe that. I believe Jennifer will have fought at some point - we taught her to fight - and I think she took her chances I think she's no longer with us.' He adds: 'But I may be 100 percent wrong as we have no clue what happened.' Kesse says he hopes the person responsible for her disappearance is 'looking over their shoulder constantly.' However, there's a sense of fear that after almost two decades, there's 'a lot of catch-up work' to be done and that, the more time that passes, the chances of catching those responsible or finding people with information could be running out. 'The sad thing is people might be dead by this time. We've had detectives who have worked on the case who have passed away,' Kesse says. 'People we wanted to talk to who have passed away. That person [who took Jennifer] might no longer be here, they might have passed or might be in another country. Obviously the longer things go on, the less chances you have.' Jennifer was declared dead by the state of Florida in 2016. And after many years, and finding no further options to test it, the Kesse family finally parted ways with her car. For Jennifer's dad, one of the hardest things over the years has been realizing that 'life goes on.' Jennifer's dad is hopeful a new team of investigators and a chilling piece of surveillance footage will finally hold the key to bringing his daughter home 'You're a shadow when it first happens but you have to go on with life or it's going to eat you up and spit you out,' he says. 'We're strong people. We don't have a choice, well we do have a choice. We can go around the corner and cry but we choose to be proactive and to try to find our daughter to this day. 'So now I have 2 minds: I have a Jennifer mind where it's constantly there then the 2nd is things you have to do in life - eat, sleep and all that.' Kesse is determined that he'll never stop looking for Jennifer. 'We're never going to give up trying and doing everything we can. My biggest hope is that we can bring Jennifer home before Joyce and I pass. I was 48 when this started and I'm 68 now. I don't want to leave this for her brother,' Kesse says. 'I don't want to go to my grave not knowing where my daughter is. 'I don't expect her to be alive. I don't expect her to come back home to daddy. I do expect her to be found and identified.' From 25,000ft up on a clear day, you can see the biggest wood-fired kettle in the world belching steam, as I did the other day on a flight to Newcastle upon Tyne. Called Drax power station, it lies in North Yorkshire between Selby and Goole and burns the equivalent of 27 million trees every year. Since it began to change from burning coal 15 years ago, Drax has got through the equivalent of 300 million trees. Most and currently all of this wood was imported from North America because we just do not grow enough here. You would have to burn the entire New Forest every two years just to fuel this one power station. Drax is strangely reluctant to boast about its unique activity. In a lengthy statement released this week to justify its wood burning, its spokesman managed to avoid using the words 'wood' and 'tree' altogether, preferring to talk about 'biomass'. 'We understand that we need to do more to demonstrate that the biomass we use is genuinely sustainable and that we are taking the necessary steps to operate our business responsibly,' said the spokesman. Drax is Britain's largest emitter of carbon dioxide, another record the company refrains from mentioning. It produced nearly 12 million tonnes of the gas in 2023, which is significantly more than when it was burning coal. That is not counting the emissions from the diesel trucks that bring the trees from the forests to where they are turned into pellets; from the diesel-powered ships that bring the pellets across the Atlantic; or from the trains that finally bring the fuel from the Tyne to Drax. Incredibly, Drax's 12 million tonnes of emissions are not included in Britain's carbon accounts. They are deemed to be emitted in Canada and America even though the combustion happens in North Yorkshire. From 25,000ft up on a clear day, you can see the biggest wood-fired kettle in the world belching steam - Drax power station Drax is also Britain's most heavily subsidised power station, to the tune of 600 million a year. This is paid by you, the consumer, through your electricity bills, which are now the highest in the developed world. That subsidy is necessary for wood burning to be profitable. So, to summarise, Drax power station is consuming other countries' forests, turning them into carbon dioxide and being subsidised for doing so. It is a travesty to call this sustainable, renewable, green or clean, let alone economic yet that is exactly what Drax claims. Last year, 138 MPs and peers wrote to the prime minister demanding that Drax's subsidies for burning trees not be renewed in 2027. This week, debating the Climate and Nature Bill, Sir Roger Gale MP asked the Commons: 'Why are we allowing this and why are we paying for this?' Speaking under parliamentary privilege, Barry Gardiner MP added that he has seen whistleblower accounts which show that Drax executives 'deliberately misreported' to the energy regulator when claiming the company's 7 billion subsidies and are therefore not 'fit and proper people to run that company'. Not unreasonably, environmentalists in North America are also furious about their forests being cut down purely to be burned, let alone burned abroad and by a country that lectures the world about reducing emissions. Drax claims it is using 'pellets' made of the sawdust and brash branches, twigs and clippings that are waste products of the timber industry. But campaigners have repeatedly tracked Drax's pellets back to the source and found whole trees being ground up to make them. BBC Panorama 'obtained documents from British Columbia's Ministry of Forests that show the company took more than 40,000 tonnes of wood from so-called 'old-growth' forests in 2023'. So it's not just sawdust and it's not just plantations it's the ancient habitats of Canadian moose and bears Drax is burning. This week, environmentalists in British Columbia got hold of documents showing that Drax had been asking some of its timber suppliers in the province to lobby the European Union against declaring wood from old-growth forests unsustainable. In any case, whether you burn a whole tree or a pile of brash, you are still depriving a fungus, a beetle or a woodpecker of its lunch. If you burn coal you steal from no creature. One of the great benefits of coal, oil and gas is that nothing else eats them so when humans came to use them, we stopped stealing from nature. Britain's woodlands regrew because we used coal instead. Burned wood produces more emissions even than coal, says the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change itself. Wood generates about 18 per cent more carbon dioxide than coal per unit of energy (and 45 per cent more than oil, 60 per cent more than gas). It is just about the most carbon-intensive fuel that you can choose. Aren't we supposed to be trying to reduce carbon dioxide emissions? Ah, say Drax's defenders, shaking their heads in astonishment at my naivete, you don't understand. Carbon dioxide from burning wood is different. It does not warm the Earth as much. The difference, they explain, is that trees regrow, whereas coal seams do not. In chopping down a tree, you make space for another tree to grow in its place. The 'lifetime' emissions are therefore lower. On its website, Drax boasts that 'the use of biomass pellets reduces our carbon emissions by 80 per cent compared to coal'. This is specious nonsense. It takes decades for a tree to regrow, and in those decades the carbon dioxide has indeed contributed to global warming. Anyway, as soon as the new tree has absorbed the carbon again, maybe 80 or 100 years hence, it will be chopped down once again and fed into the furnace. The truth is that Drax has been pulling a fast one all these years. Its vast wood-burning enterprise is bad for birds and bees, bad for the climate, bad for the consumer, and bad for the balance of trade. It is claimed Drax each year burns as much as 27 million trees' worth of 'pellets' made from sawdust and brash (branches, twigs and clippings waste products of the timber industry) A cosy cabal of crony capitalists decided on our behalf that it would be a good idea to turn a coal-fired power station into a wood-fired one, Matt Ridley writes There is a reason no other nation has chosen to build such huge wood burners of this kind: they make no sense. I have been pointing this out for more than a decade but was largely ignored or dismissed by the government's Climate Change Committee and successive ministers. (Incidentally, I have no vested interest in criticising Drax if anything the reverse. Drax and other wood-fired power stations have helped increase the price of timber, causing me to lose less money on clearing up storm damage in the woodland surrounding my home in Northumberland.) There is one very good reason not to close down Drax. The lights would go out if we did. Unlike wind turbines and solar panels, Drax's furnaces are at least reliable. They generate power on demand, day and night. Without them we risk blackouts and frequent price spikes. This allows Drax to play blackout blackmail with the Government to try to bounce it into giving more subsidies after 2027. However, it has admitted that it would keep offering energy to the grid 'on a merchant basis' if it loses all its subsidies. Yet there are less carbon-intensive and just as reliable alternatives to burning wood like gas. You and I were not consulted on these decisions. A cosy cabal of crony capitalists decided on our behalf that it would be a good idea to turn a coal-fired power station into a wood-fired one, subsidise it and exaggerate its worthiness. It was not their money, you see. Viscount Ridley is a writer and businessman. When reinsurance broker Henry Spencer was paid his first bonus in 2019, he celebrated with a 'landmark' purchase: a Rolex watch. Crafted from silver oystersteel with a 4,500 price tag, the Oyster Perpetual was not only one of the 31-year-old's most expensive possessions but one of his most sentimental. 'Buying it was a landmark moment for me,' Henry recalls. 'The Rolex spelled out progress. It was to be my watch for life.' Now, he says, he is struggling to replace it. After taking it off before an exercise class at his gym in the City of London last April, the watch along with a precious family ring was stolen. Wealthy visitors to the capital have long been warned about 'Rolex Rippers' gangs who brazenly tear luxury watches from their victims' wrists, often while passing on e-scooters or mopeds. But police have warned that slick thieves are increasingly turning their attention to high-end gyms and the valuable items that fitness fanatics (understandably) take off before their workouts. Using fake IDs and memberships, criminals pose as customers before breaking into hi-tech lockers (which are protected by PIN codes) to steal watches as well as jewellery and wallets. Equally sophisticated, though, is what some of these criminals are not stealing. This month saw the sentencing of two prolific gym thieves nicknamed the 'Wet Phone Bandits' because they soaked their targets' smartphones in water, put them back in their lockers, and then escaped with their other valuables. But why would thieves destroy a valuable asset? And how widespread is theft from lockers? When reinsurance broker Henry Spencer was paid his first bonus in 2019, he celebrated with a 'landmark' purchase: a Rolex watch. However, after taking it off before an exercise class at his gym, it was stolen There is no national breakdown of thefts from gyms, but in the City of London alone an area of just one square mile there were 169 between 2023 and 2024. High-value watches are the primary target, with 82 reported stolen, according to City of London police. These included 30 Rolexes worth a total of 300,000, eight Omegas (24,000), two IWCs (8,000), three Tag Heuers (3,000) and one Tudor (3,000). A further 38 watch thefts were reported with no brand provided. So prolific are the thieves becoming that City of London police last week issued an alert on social media, warning gym-goers to be 'aware of their surroundings'. Detectives believe that in much the same way as burglars 'case' properties to target, gym thieves watch out for members to take off their valuables before choosing the most lucrative lockers to raid. Henry's watch and ring were taken at the luxury gym Third Space where membership costs 230 a month and lockers can be rented for up to 75 a month. 'I went to the gym early in the morning for a class I take regularly,' he says. 'I got changed into my gym kit and put all of my stuff in a locker, including my watch and ring which I would push into the toe of my shoe. 'I came back, had a shower, got dressed and went to put on my shoes. That's when I realised my watch and ring were gone.' Henry's initial hope was that he had left them at home in Stoke Newington, north London, but when he called his wife, Kristina, she confirmed they weren't there. They had been stolen. 'I felt crushed,' he says. 'The items weren't insured, but it wasn't about the monetary value. They meant so much to me.' Henry is convinced someone had been watching him on previous occasions as the thief appeared to go straight into the shoe for his watch and ring. His phone, bank cards and even the money in his wallet were left behind. The signet ring, which was given to Henry on his 18th birthday, was worth only about 300. But it cost 2,000 to have a replacement made. However, the price of a new Rolex has almost doubled since he bought his watch six years ago now costing up to 8,000. That's assuming he can even get one: he joined a waiting list just after the theft but, nine months later, has still not been contacted to say one is available. 'It makes me so sad,' he says. 'You ask yourself lots of questions should I have just worn the watch and ring that day? I'd worn them in classes before. But there's no point going over things you can't change.' After the theft, Henry said the staff at Third Space were helpful but not surprised by what had happened: 'They said this kind of thing happens almost always in men's locker rooms and the target is usually Rolex watches.' Yet thieves are targeting even higher-value items which can be made even easier by gym lockers' PIN technology. Detective Chief Inspector Kevin Ives, from the City of London police, warns: 'There is nothing new about people stealing from lockers that's as old as lockers themselves. 'What is new here is that the lockers have four-digit PIN codes rather than locks, and we're finding that criminals are watching people put in their codes so they can access them later. Crafted from silver oystersteel with a 4,500 price tag, the Oyster Perpetual was one of Henry's most prized possessions 'What is worrying is that many gym members are using the same PIN code for their lockers as their phones and bank cards so once the thieves gain access, they don't just steal the valuables inside, they can go on to unlock the phones, withdraw cash from ATMs and sometimes clean out people's bank accounts.' This month, the tide has started to turn, thanks to a police crackdown in the City and the high-profile prosecutions of the 'Wet Phone Bandits'. At the beginning of January, homeless Christopher Forde was sentenced to four and a-half months after pleading guilty to two counts of gym theft and two of fraud at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Then last week Declan Murphy who targeted multiple gyms, including Henry's was jailed for 27 months on three counts of gym theft and 11 counts of fraud by false representation. Police cannot be sure, but it is likely that 35-year-old Murphy and 34-year-old Forde, who both targeted the 147-a-month Nuffield Health gym on Cousin Lane in the City, knew each other. 'They are professional career criminals,' says DCI Ives. 'They've been around for a long time and they know how not to draw attention to themselves. So they would dress for the occasion in nice smart clothing, and then change into good gym kit so they don't stand out. 'All the while they're looking for opportunities in the locker room where, of course, there isn't any CCTV to catch them in action.' But, even more striking was their modus operandi. Having gained access to lockers after watching their victims entering their pins, both thieves would take their targets' phones and run them under a tap to damage them before returning them to the locker. The tactic seems pointless why not just steal the phone? But there was method in the apparent madness. Detective Constable Al Collins, one of the officers working on the Murphy case, says soaking the phones was a distraction technique giving the criminals more time to ransack victims' bank accounts after taking their cards. 'By soaking the phone in water, the victim doesn't realise that other things have been stolen from his locker,' he says. 'The victim will think, 'Is there a water leak?' or something like that. 'This confusion will give the suspect a much bigger window of opportunity to misuse the bank cards because the victim isn't getting notifications on his phone from his bank to say his cards are being used at shops and at an ATM just around the corner.' Catching Murphy and Forde was a painstaking operation that involved studying hours of CCTV footage, cross-referencing memberships set up with stolen bank cards and visiting ATMs and shops where these cards were used. Declan Murphy who targeted multiple gyms, including Henry's was jailed for 27 months last week on three counts of gym theft On the more prolific Murphy, DC Collins jokes: 'He must have been one of the fittest people in the country. 'He had fake memberships and would visit one gym in the morning [usually the Nuffield gym in Paddington, west London] and then move on to another [the Nuffield City or Third Space City gyms] in the afternoon.' But they weren't the only gyms he cased. During a 15-day period last September, Murphy made 43 visits to at least 11 gyms. Detective Constable Monika Furmanska managed to track down Murphy after identifying him on CCTV leaving the Nuffield Gym in the City on June 2, 2024. He went on to steal 1,750 from a Sainsbury's ATM nearby. On June 4, he used a bank card to spend 92 at a Zara in the City ostensibly to test whether he had the correct PIN for it before trying unsuccessfully (the card had been cancelled) to withdraw 600 from a cash machine, an act filmed on CCTV. He was arrested by DC Furmanska on June 19 at the Paddington Nuffield, having attended the branch in the City that morning. He was charged and then rearrested at his court hearing on October 24 because he had committed more offences while on bail. Murphy, who is unemployed, lives with his 15-year-old daughter at their home in Bromley, south London. He refused to comment when being interviewed by police, although officers said his 'charming' persona would have helped him blend in with the high-end gym clientele. 'I would have to say he was the most polite suspect I have ever dealt with,' DC Furmanska says. 'Talking to him, you would never suspect he was a criminal, but that is what probably makes him so plausible.' Just how much all of this is troubling the fitness sector and what it plans to do about it is unclear. I invited Third Space and Nuffield to comment on the thefts and to explain what could be done to make their customers more secure. Neither responded. UKactive, the trade body for the physical activity sector, has issued crime prevention advice for its gyms with the National Business Crime Centre, a forum of police forces and businesses. However, none of the guidance involves PIN lockers or advice for customers on how to use them safely. I asked if it would provide further information but none was forthcoming. As fitness fans head back to the gym then, what should they do to protect themselves? 'When inputting your PIN, cover it so nobody else can see what you're doing,' says DC Furmanska. 'And, whatever you do, don't use the same PIN code as your locker for your bank cards and phone. That's asking for trouble.' In early June 1944 the train carrying 20-year-old Freda Wineman, her family and nearly a thousand other Jews from France passed under the red-brick guardhouse of Auschwitz Birkenau and down a railway line directly into the camp. As the doors of the freight wagon opened and they emerged into the light, Freda thought she had arrived in Hell: 'The smell! The smell was awful.' She was confused and bewildered. Nothing seemed to make sense. Prisoners from a special unit, dressed in pyjama-like uniforms, shouted out to the new arrivals: 'Give the children to the older women.' Amidst all this turmoil, Freda's mother was handed a baby by a young woman in her twenties. The Jews were quickly separated, the young and fit like Freda sent to one group and children and the elderly to another. Freda's older brother, David, saw their mother moving off with the elderly and told their youngest sibling, 13-year-old Marcel, to go with her. Marcel had initially been selected by the SS to join the group of young and fit adults, but his brother reasoned that 'it might be easier' for Marcel if his mother was able to look after him. The SS raised no objection and Marcel left one group and joined the other. Unwittingly, David had helped send his brother to his death. They did not know it at the time, but the new arrivals had just participated in a selection process in which SS doctors, in a matter of seconds, decided which person should be allowed to live temporarily and work as slave labour, and which person should die at once. Jewish children, survivors of Auschwitz, behind a barbed wire fence, Poland, February 1945 Auschwitz Concentration Camp is seen here in a 1944 black and white photograph, with the railway tracks leading to the main railway entrance Rudolf Hoss, Commondant pictured at Auschwitz Concentration Camp during World War Two The great majority of people on this transport were selected to be murdered immediately in the gas chambers of Birkenau including Freda's mother, the baby that had been placed in her arms and, now, her youngest son Marcel. The Nazis did not want children, the old or the sick to last more than a few hours in the camp. It's all but unimaginable that such a situation could ever have come to exist on this Earth. That standards of common decency and morality could have been inverted so unspeakably. That the compassionate gesture of a brother directing a sibling to be with his mother helped cause his death. That the only chance a young mother had of surviving more than one day was for her baby to be taken from her and murdered. Freda, having survived the initial selection, was sent to the women's camp in Auschwitz Birkenau 'near the crematoria' from where 'you could see the smoke and smell the fire. Not just smoke, fire. I couldn't believe that anybody could inflict such horror on another person'. But Freda was immensely resilient: 'I felt even then, I was only 20, I really had no teenage years, nothing, because we lived under the occupation. And now I'm here, I haven't even lived yet, you know. So there was still a little light in me that wanted to live.' Thanks to the allied victory in the Second World War, Freda survived. And it was a privilege for me to interview her at her flat in North London just over ten years ago. Elegant and dignified, she was an inspirational example of how suffering can be overcome, and her presence offered a direct link back to the horrors of Auschwitz. Former SS member and Auschwitz Guard Oskar Groening Three SS officers socialize on the grounds of the SS retreat outside of Auschwitz, at 'Solahutte', 1944 The Nazis' concentration and extermination camps: The factories of death used to slaughter millions Auschwitz-Birkenau, near the town of Oswiecim, in what was then occupied Poland Auschwitz-Birkenau was a concentration and extermination camp used by the Nazis during World War Two. The camp, which was located in Nazi-occupied Poland, was made up of three main sites. Auschwitz I, the original concentration camp, Auschwitz II-Birkenau, a combined concentration and extermination camp and Auschwitz IIIMonowitz, a labour camp, with a further 45 satellite sites. Auschwitz, pictured in 1945, was liberated by Soviet troops 76 years ago on Wednesday after around 1.1million people were murdered at the Nazi extermination camp Auschwitz was an extermination camp used by the Nazis in Poland to murder more than 1.1 million Jews Birkenau became a major part of the Nazis' 'Final Solution', where they sought to rid Europe of Jews. An estimated 1.3 million people were sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau, of whom at least 1.1 million died around 90 percent of which were Jews. Since 1947, it has operated as Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, which in 1979 was named a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Treblinka, near a village of the same name, outside Warsaw in Nazi-occupied Poland Unlike at other camps, where some Jews were assigned to forced labour before being killed, nearly all Jews brought to Treblinka were immediately gassed to death. Only a select few - mostly young, strong men, were spared from immediate death and assigned to maintenance work instead. Unlike at other camps, where some Jews were assigned to forced labor before being killed, nearly all Jews brought to Treblinka were immediately gassed to death The death toll at Treblinka was second only to Auschwitz. In just 15 months of operation - between July 1942 and October 1943 - between 700,000 and 900,000 Jews were murdered in its gas chambers. Exterminations stopped at the camp after an uprising which saw around 200 prisoners escape. Around half of them were killed shortly afterwards, but 70 are known to have survived until the end of the war Belzec, near the station of the same name in Nazi-occupied Poland Belzec operated from March 1942 until the end of June 1943. It was built specifically as an extermination camp as part of Operation Reinhard. Polish, German, Ukrainian and Austrian Jews were all killed there. In total, around 600,000 people were murdered. The camp was dismantled in 1943 and the site was disguised as a fake farm. Belzec operated from March 1942 until the end of June 1943. It was built specifically as an extermination camp as part of Operation Reinhard Sobibor, near the village of the same name in Nazi-occupied Poland Sobibor was named after its closest train station, at which Jews disembarked from extremely crowded carriages, unsure of their fate. Jews from Poland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the Soviet Union were killed in three gas chambers fed by the deadly fumes of a large petrol engine taken from a tank. An estimated 200,000 people were killed in the camp. Some estimations put the figure at 250,000. This would place Sobibor as the fourth worst extermination camp - in terms of number of deaths - after Belzec, Treblinka and Auschwitz. Sobibor was named after its closest train station, at which Jews disembarked from extremely crowded carriages, unsure of their fate The camp was located about 50 miles from the provincial Polish capital of Brest-on-the-Bug. Its official German name was SS-Sonderkommando Sobibor. Prisoners launched a heroic escape on October 14 1943 in which 600 men, women and children succeeded in crossing the camp's perimeter fence. Of those, only 50 managed to evade capture. It is unclear how many crossed into allied territory. Chelmno (also known as Kulmhof), in Nazi-occupied Poland Chelmno was the first of Nazi Germany's camps built specifically for extermination. It operated from December 1941 until April 1943 and then again from June 1944 until January 1945. Between 152,000 and 200,000 people, nearly all of whom were Jews, were killed there. Chelmno was the first of Nazi Germany's camps built specifically for extermination. It operated from December 1941 until April 1943 and then again from June 1944 until January 1945 Majdanek (also known simply as Lublin), built on outskirts of city of Lublin in Nazi-occupied Poland Majdanek was initially intended for forced labour but was converted into an extermination camp in 1942. It had seven gas chambers as well as wooden gallows where some victims were hanged. In total, it is believed that as many as 130,000 people were killed there. Majdanek (pictured in 2005) was initially intended for forced labour but was converted into an extermination camp in 1942 Advertisement In my years as a historian and television documentary maker, and for my book on Auschwitz, I met very many survivors of the Holocaust. Their testimony was engrossing, disturbing and intensely moving. On every occasion I heard their stories, I came away shaken, staggered by the depth of the inhumanity and sheer scale of it. Alas, Freda and almost all of the survivors of Auschwitz that I have met over the last thirty years are now no longer with us. On Monday (January 27) I attend the 80th anniversary remembrance ceremony at Auschwitz Birkenau as a guest of the World Jewish Congress, and I expect to see very few survivors. That sad reality represents an enormous challenge. How can we keep the memory of this appalling crime alive once we lose the special connection with the past offered by those who suffered at Auschwitz? It's an especially urgent question, because it has never been more important that we learn from the terrible history of the Holocaust. As I write in my new book, The Nazi Mind, what happened at Auschwitz is more than just history it offers us a series of warnings, particularly at a time when anti-Semitism is on the rise across the globe, when some organisations in Europe have recorded a terrifying 400 per cent increase in incidents since the Hamas slaughter of Israelis in October 2023. Above all, it's a warning of where hatred and conspiracy theories can lead. That's because incredibly, you might think the vast majority of the SS at Auschwitz thought that their murderous work was justified. Just over 20 years ago, when I met Oskar Groening, an SS man who worked at Auschwitz, he told us that he and his comrades believed then that the Jews were 'the cause of Germany's misery'. That was because they accepted the lie that the Jews had secretly plotted to cause Germany to lose the First World War the so-called 'stab in the back' conspiracy theory and also believed the falsehood that the Jews were behind communism, the ideology they most hated. 'We were convinced by our world view that there was a great conspiracy of Jewishness against us,' said Groening. 'And that was expressed in Auschwitz in the idea that said, 'Here the Jews are being exterminated what happened in the First World War that the Jews put us into misery must be avoided. The Jews are our enemies'. So we exterminated nothing but enemies.' The fact that the Nazis maintained that the Jews were a 'race', and so every single Jew was a threat because of their 'blood', meant that it was immaterial that the people they killed had committed no crime. You deserved to die simply because you had been born Jewish. This warped thinking even meant that the Nazis thought it was necessary to kill children and babies. 'The children are not the enemy at the moment,' said Groening. 'The enemy is the blood in them the [capacity] to grow up to be a Jew who could become dangerous. And because of that the children were also affected.' Fuelled by these lies, the Nazis opened four crematoria/gas chambers complexes at Auschwitz Birkenau in 1943. It was the creation of these new buildings at Auschwitz that marked not just the final evolutionary stage of the Holocaust, but was one of the key reasons why this genocide is different from others. They, more than any other structures, were the physical embodiment of the Nazis' attempt to eliminate an entire people swiftly and via a quasi-industrial process. The pernicious ideology of the Nazis thus came to be represented in the brick crematoria/gas chambers at Auschwitz Birkenau. These horrendous murder factories were also a perverse statement of modernity. As the Soviet correspondent Boris Polevoy pointed out in an article written for Pravda days after the liberation of the camp, the crematoria/gas chamber facilities at Auschwitz resembled an 'enormous industrial plant'. Modern technology and innovation had been harnessed together to create a new kind of genocide. But what was less commented on were the immense psychological advantages that this 'modern' method of killing offered the perpetrators. The Nazis had done everything they could to make committing mass murder easy for themselves and had succeeded. Unlike the Nazi killing squads in the east whose job was to kill any Jews they could find in occupied Soviet territory, and who had to witness the emotional trauma of their victims as they shot them from close range, the SS in the death camps could pretend to new arrivals that they had no intention of committing murder. The practice of telling Jews as they entered the gas chambers that they were about to take a 'shower' seems to have emerged at Auschwitz in the late autumn of 1941. It wasn't an entirely new idea, since the gas chambers of earlier 'euthanasia' centres were also disguised as showers starting in 1940 the Nazis had created these killing centres to murder selected disabled people. But Auschwitz was the first time this deception was used in the context of the extermination of the Jews and it eased the minds of those who sent them to their death. Pery Broad, an SS man at Auschwitz, observed how the procedure worked in Auschwitz's main camp early in 1942, when the killings were conducted in a converted room in the crematorium. On arrival Jews were told by an SS officer that they needed to 'bathe and be disinfected'. 'We don't want any epidemics in the camp. Then you will be brought to your barracks where you'll get some hot soup. You will be employed in accordance with your professional qualifications. Now undress and put your clothes in front of you on the ground.' After they heard these words, Broad noticed that the Jews 'all felt relieved after their days full of anxiety'. Moments later they were ushered into the gas chamber, the door locked and Zyklon B crystals poured in from a hatch above. The screams of the dying were so loud, and the crematorium in the main camp so close to other buildings, that a truck engine was turned on to try to drown out their cries. The new crematoria/gas chambers that opened at Auschwitz Birkenau, less than two miles away from Auschwitz main camp, streamlined the whole killing process and from the perspective of the SS 'solved' these 'problems'. A combination of the remoteness of the site and the solid brick building of the gas chamber made this location much more secure and ensured most of the staff at Auchwitz could turn a blind eye. However, the prisoners forced to work in the crematoria/gas chambers knew all too well what was happening. These 'Sonderkommando' had to perform nightmarish tasks like clearing the gas chambers of bodies. For the BBC TV series on Auschwitz I wrote and produced 20 years ago, several former members of the Sonderkommando gave important eyewitness testimony revealing the nature of the crime. One of them, a Greek Jew called Dario Gabbai, remembered 'the screaming' from people trapped in the gas chamber and how they 'didn't know what to do, scratching the walls, crying until the gas took effect'. And when the door to the gas chamber was opened, after the Zyklon B gas had done its terrible work, Dario remembered seeing the bodies crammed together, 'standing up, some black and blue from the gas. No place where to go. Dead. If I close my eyes, the only thing I see is standing up, women with children in their hands'. Some of the SS overseeing this killing were sexual sadists. Dario remembered one member of the SS who would occasionally visit the crematorium and select seven or eight beautiful girls and tell them to get undressed in front of the Sonderkommando. Then he would shoot them in their breasts or their private parts so that they died right in front of them. 'There are no feelings at that time,' said Dario simply. Only around two dozen SS were needed to supervise the operation of one crematorium/gas chamber complex at Auschwitz Birkenau that could murder up to 2,000 people at a time. So the psychological and practical benefits to the Nazis from this system of killing were obvious. It meant that most of the several thousand SS who worked at Auschwitz were employed not in directly murdering people, but as guards or in the administrative departments of the camp. It was this separation of tasks that allowed Oskar Groening, who worked at Auschwitz main camp in the economic section counting the money stolen from the Jews, to feel distant from the gas chambers not just physically but emotionally as well. Groening came to believe that Auschwitz main camp was like 'a small town. It had its gossip There was a cinema and a theatre [for the SS] with regular performances'. There was even an Auschwitz SS 'Sports Club' of which Groening was a keen member he revealed during his interview that he 'specialised in the high jump'. Nazi guards enjoy a musical performance and sing along in a wooded area near Auschwitz Uniformed women pose for a picture with Nazi officers at Solahutte, an SS resort less than 20 miles south of Auschwitz And it was not just the social structures that allowed Groening to form the opinion that, from his perspective, Auschwitz was a 'wonderful' environment in which to exist that view extended to the SS who worked alongside him: 'Apart from the fact that there are pigs who fulfil their personal drives, the special situation [at Auschwitz] led to friendships which I'm still saying today I like to think back on with joy.' There was one final 'benefit' the SS gained by the nature of the killing operation at Auschwitz the use of doctors to oversee the selection of new arrivals. Since trained medical professionals decided who could live, at least temporarily, and who should die at once, the Nazis could try to convince themselves that this process didn't resemble the blood- and brain-spattered killings perpetrated by the Nazi murder squads operating in the east. Instead, it was a cold, well-thought-through medical procedure. These people 'deserved' to die, the SS at Auschwitz could pretend, as qualified doctors had made the decision. This perversion of the German medical profession offers us yet another warning that medical professionals need not be caring and moral. 'Of course I am a doctor and I want to preserve life,' said one Nazi doctor. 'Out of respect for human life, I would remove a gangrenous appendix from a diseased body. The Jew is the gangrenous appendix in the body of mankind.' It was this murderous thinking, coupled with modern technology, that allowed Auschwitz to become the site of the largest mass murder in history. Around 1.1million people died there, a million of them Jews. Given all this, it's not surprising that Giselle Cycowicz another survivor of Auschwitz I met, also sadly no longer with us summed up her experience succinctly this way. 'I cannot get over it,' she said. 'I cannot get over the evil.' SS chief Heinrich Himmler (right), a five-star general, during a visit to the Auschwitz camp in Poland, where he inspects the Monowitz-factories We all face a responsibility never to forget the experience of those who suffered in Auschwitz. But it isn't easy to keep the history alive and vibrant once eyewitnesses to these horrific events are gone. While charities such as the Holocaust Educational Trust have accepted the challenge and are pioneering new methods of remembrance via digital eyewitness testimony and virtual reality, there remains a danger that Holocaust deniers will exploit the lack of flesh and blood witnesses to spread their hateful lies. The Nazis were desperate to keep the Holocaust a secret and tried to do everything they could so that future g enerations would never learn of the atrocities they committed. We cannot let them win this last battle. We need to remember. The Nazi Mind, 12 Warnings From History by Laurence Rees was published by Viking on January 23, 2025. A photo of a crocodile battling the waves at a beach hundreds of kilometres from where the reptiles are usually found has shocked locals and sparked an urgent search. The crocodile was spotted up to five times at Coonarr Beach at the mouth of the Elliott River, near Bundaberg, in central Queensland on Thursday. Jasmine Van Den Bos was stunned to spot the crocodile battling the ocean waves while taking her dog for a walk. 'I just couldn't believe my eyes [it] was just a bit of a shock,' she told the ABC. 'I was freaking out.' The croc was pictured roughly 200km south of the Boyne River, south of Gladstone, where known saltwater crocodile habitats start. Queensland's 'Croc Country' extends north to the Torres Strait and across to the Cape York Peninsula. When crocodiles venture outside of Croc Country they are usually moving from one estuary to another, however sightings are rare. Ms Van Den Bos, who has swum at the beach many times, said the crocodile's presence means she might forgo swimming for a while. The crocodile (pictured) was spotted up to five times at Coonarr Beach at the mouth of the Elliott River, near Bundaberg, in central Queensland on Thursday The reports of the crocodile sightings at Coonarr Beach (pictured) is outside of the areas considered 'Croc Country' in Queensland David Andreoli saw the crocodile's head sticking out of the water while he was walking with his wife along the beach. The reptile, which he said was between five to six feet in length, 'spun around and went back into the ocean' as they came closer. The Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation said in a statement they are investigating the reported crocodile sightings. Wildlife officer Alexander Peters said officials are contacting locals who made reports and that signs warning of the sightings will be installed at the beach. 'As part of our investigation, wildlife officers will conduct site assessments, including vessel-based searches and spotlight assessments of the area,' he said. 'While the investigation is underway, people in the Wide Bay region should be vigilant around the water, which means keeping children close and keeping dogs away from the water's edge.' The last known confirmed sightings of the reptile outside of Croc Country was when two large crocodiles were removed from the Mary River in 2013 and 2014. Donald Trump unleashed a torrent of aggression in a 'horrendous' 45-minute phone call with Denmark's Prime Minister as the pair discussed the fate of Greenland. The confrontation has been described by senior officials as 'explosive' and centered on the President's insistence the country was critical for national security. The call, which took place on January 15, five days before he became Commander-in-Chief spiraled into an unprecedented diplomatic clash. Trump, 78, reportedly threatened to impose tariffs on Denmark, a NATO ally, as a way of pressuring Mette Frederiksen, 47, to acquiesce to his territorial ambitions. According to sources as revealed to the Financial Times, the conversation raised concerns that Trump is actually serious about possible military action. 'It was horrendous. He was very firm. It was a cold shower. Before, it was hard to take it seriously. But I do think it is serious, and potentially very dangerous,' the source said. The call showcased Trump's determination to push American interests in the Arctic, a region he views as a critical battleground for global power competition with China and Russia. 'We are open for business, but we're not for sale,' Greenland's foreign minister Ane Lone Bagger told Reuters. Then President-elect Donald Trump unleashed a torrent of aggression in a 'horrendous' fiery 45-minute phone call with Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, as the pair discussed the fate of Greenland During the call, Frederiksen was unyielding and reportedly cited Greenland's Parliament, which had unequivocally declared that the island was 'not for sale' Trump's fixation on Greenland is emblematic of his broader vision of American expansionism. Pictured, the capital of Greenland, Nuuk Greenland's strategic location along the shortest route from Europe to North America, vital for the U.S. ballistic missile warning system, has made it a priority for Trump. While National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes declined to comment on the tone of the call, he issued a carefully worded statement reiterating Trump's focus on Greenland. 'President Trump has been clear that the safety and security of Greenland is important to the United States as China and Russia make significant investments throughout the Arctic region,' Hughes said. He added that Trump was committed to 'working with Greenland to ensure mutual prosperity.' Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede, who has stepped up a push for independence, echos sentiments from Frederiksen and the foreign minister, saying the island is not for sale and that it is up to its people to decide their future. While Trump also aired the possibility of taking over Greenland in 2019, his refusal to rule out the use of military or economic power has caught many Danes by surprise. Trump's fixation on Greenland is emblematic of his broader vision of American expansionism. During his inauguration speech, he framed the U.S. as a 'growing nation' with ambitions to expand its territory. The US seeks a greater share in emerging trade routes with its Greenland initiative, while Russia's Northern Sea Route and China's Polar Silk Road have drawn significant attention in recent years A view of Greenland's capital, Nuuk His grandiose vision even extended to musings about annexing Canada and retaking the Panama Canal. But Greenland appears to hold a special allure for the president, who views it as both a strategic military asset and an economic opportunity. Frederiksen, however, was unyielding. During the call, she reportedly cited Greenland's Parliament, which had unequivocally declared that the island was 'not for sale.' She also emphasized Denmark's commitment to Arctic security, proposed bolstering trade relations with the U.S., and reminded Trump of the EU's shared interests with America in strengthened economic ties. But her pragmatic approach seemed to have little effect on Trump, who had publicly hinted at using economic or even military force to assert U.S. control over Greenland. At least five current and former senior European officials told the FT that Trump's response was 'aggressive'. Frederiksen, described by foreign policy experts as a no-nonsense leader with a tough, security-focused approach, is not one to back down easily. A U.S. foreign policy insider who had met with Frederiksen described her as 'the John Bolton of Europe,' a comparison to Trump's former national security adviser, known for his hawkish stance. Greenland has been politically linked with Europe - in particular Norway and Denmark - since the 9th Century. It has been inhabited by the Inuit people for around 800 years Greenland was colonised in 1721 with the permission of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway and remained a colony of Denmark until 1979. It is now an autonomous territory of Denmark At 836,000 square miles, Greenland is a scarcely populated, arctic autonomous territory of Denmark. When comparing it to the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, it can be estimated that Greenland's total price would come out to approximately $230.25 million though it's not likely the same metrics would be use to determine worth Frederiksen's unwillingness to entertain Trump's demands may have exacerbated the tension, leading to what insiders described as a verbal standoff. 'She doesn't seem like the type that would give any ground,' an expert said to The Hill. 'Not that she's unreasonable, but she's not the kind that would take any s***.' The Prime Minister's firmness reportedly left Trump fuming, with speculation swirling that her tough line provoked the escalation. Hours after being sworn into office on Monday, Trump doubled down on his determination to bring Greenland under U.S. control. Speaking from the Oval Office, he dismissed Denmark's objections with characteristic bravado. 'I'm sure that Denmark will come along,' Trump said, shrugging off the diplomatic rift. While geographically it is part of the continent of North America, Greenland has been politically linked with Europe - in particular Norway and Denmark - since the 9th Century. It has been inhabited by the Inuit people for around 800 years. It was colonised in 1721 with the permission of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway and remained a colony of Denmark until 1979. It is now an autonomous territory of Denmark. The Danish government has control of Greenland's foreign and economic policy, but the territory left the EU in 1985 following a referendum. The US has a military base there given its strategic position as the shortest oceanic crossroads between North America and Europe. The island also has a large supply of valuable rare earth minerals - like uranium - not found in the US. Attorneys for disgraced rap mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs claim federal investigators posed as prison guards to search through his cell for evidence in the case against him. The accusation was made as appalling new allegations are set to be levied against Diddy in a documentary next week, including the former editor-in-chief of Vibe Magazine, Danyel Smith, who claims Diddy threatened to kill her. Smith told of her alleged experience as part of the upcoming Investigation Discovery docuseries The Fall of Diddy, alleging Diddy flew into a rage when she refused to show him an early preview of a magazine cover he was appearing in. After Smith rejected the request, she claimed that Diddy 'said he'd see me dead in a trunk if I didn't show it to him.' She said Diddy only apologized after she threatened to go to law enforcement, but said in the days before he 'he had come up to the Vibe offices with two tough guys, looking for me.' Smith continued to work with Diddy on numerous occasions over the next decades, and said in the upcoming documentary that while she tried to be 'cordial' with him - a stance she now appears to regret, saying: 'Its very hard not to feel complicit - I wish that things were different.' Diddy has languished in a Brooklyn jail for months after he pleaded not guilty to a wave of criminal charges, with a slew of further alleged victims since coming out of the woodwork with allegations about the rapper. His attorneys slated the soon-to-be released documentary in a statement to People, saying the several documentaries and shows that have come out since his arrest in September, saying they 'are rushing to cash in on the media circus' around his case. Shocking new allegations against Diddy are set to be made next week, including former editor-in-chief of Vibe Magazine Danyel Smith (pictured together in 2006) claiming the rapper threatened to see her 'dead in a trunk' in 1997 Smith claimed Diddy made the death threat after she refused to show him an early preview of a 1997 cover for Vibe Magazine (pictured) that he was appearing on It comes as Diddy's attorneys claim federal investigators posed as prison guards to search through his cell at Metropolitan Detention Center (pictured) for evidence in the case against him In Diddy's attorney's claims about federal agents searching his jail cell, they alleged that the search was directed by supervisors from the Southern District of New York, which is prosecuting the rap mogul. They said in a filing obtained by DailyMail.com that the search of his cell and seizure of his belongings was 'illegal', including 'privileged notes.' The search was 'for evidence, not contraband', the filing claims, 'and it is clear the purpose was to gather evidence for the prosecution, not police any potential threats to (the jail's) security.' 'Mr. Combs has never received so much as a write up in his four months in BOP custody, despite the governments constant decries of his alleged obstruction from MDC and supposed violation of policy,' the filing read. The investigator who searched his cell was 'an agent of the prosecution team' who 'admits he listened to Mr. Combss calls, including with his counsel, and all those recordings, including the ones with attorneys, were furnished to the U.S. Attorneys Office', it is alleged. '(The investigator) has been spying on the defense team all along,' the filing concludes. Diddy has languished in a Brookyln jail for months after he pleaded not guilty to a wave of criminal charges, with a slew of further alleged victims since coming out of the woodwork with allegations about the rapper Smith continued to work with Diddy on numerous occasions after the alleged death threat, and said recently that it is 'very hard not to feel complicit - I wish that things were different' Smith's allegations against Diddy, which she first revealed in a July 2024 personal essay published in the New York Times Magazine, were among several shocking claims in the new ID documentary. In one claim, a former student at Howard University in the 1980s, who remained anonymous, alleged that she witnessed Diddy whipping and beating another woman. 'I am absolutely nervous about sharing what Ive seen him do to another human being. Hes powerful and hes scary,' she said. 'The night began with me in my dorm room. We heard someone yelling and screaming so we pushed up the window just enough to get a little idea of what was going on.' She said Diddy, a fellow student at the time in 1988, 'was screaming get your ass downstairs, come downstairs right now.' 'And when she came downstairs timidly and scared and really not knowing what to do, he started beating on her,' the student continued. Further allegations this week include a former college colleague who claimed they witnessed Diddy beating another woman with a belt, which his attorneys branded 'pure fiction' 'Whipping her with a belt, and shes taking it.... So, were yelling get off of her, stop hitting on her, leave her alone. Hes yelling back, might your f****** business. He pushes her back into the doorway of the dorm. 'We dont know whats going on in that space, we cant see. Whatever hes doing takes a few minutes before he actually stops whatever hes doing and then he leaves her alone. 'Its very important to tell that young womans story because he was never held accountable.' In response to the allegations made in the documentary, Diddy's attorneys condemned the show and said producers didn't give them a fair chance to respond. 'The producers failed to provide sufficient time or details for his representatives to address unsubstantiated claims, many from unidentified participants whose allegations lack context,' the statement to People read. 'By withholding this information, they made it impossible for Mr. Combs to present facts to counter these fabricated accusations. This production is clearly intended to present a one-sided and prejudicial narrative. 'As we've said before, Mr. Combs cannot respond to every publicity stunt or facially ridiculous claim. He has full confidence in the facts and the judicial process, where the truth will prevail: the accusations against him are pure fiction.' The makers of America's favorite ketchup said they are 'deeply disappointed' by Justin Trudeau who made a humiliating gaffe when discussing tariff threats. Condiment giant Kraft Heinz Canada has hit back against the controversial politician's 'misleading' statements about the company's ketchup not being manufactured in the Maple Leaf country as he urged residents to only buy Canadian products. On January 21, Trudeau told reporters that his government will retaliate against any tolls imposed on the country after President Donald Trump indicated he would force a 25 percent trade tariff on Canada. 'That's why we will look, as we have in the past, at things that have replacements for Canadian consumers that wouldn't be tariffed,' he said in a press conference. Referencing the 2018 trade spat during Donald Trump's first term in the White House, the PM used Heinz Ketchup as an example to ask people to buy their own country's products. 'The example from last time was Heinz's ketchup being replaced by French's ketchup because French's was still using Canadian tomatoes in its ketchup.' Soon after, Kraft Heinz Canada released a statement of its own and busted Trudeau's false claim. The company made it clear that except for a five-year period, they had been producing Canadian-sourced ketchup for over a century. Condiment giant Kraft Heinz Canada has hit back against PM Justin Trudeau 'misleading' statements about its ketchup not being manufactured in the Maple Leaf country The company made it clear that except for a five-year period, they had been producing Canadian-made ketchup for over a century Furthermore, Kraft Heinz Canada also revealed that they only used tomatoes grown in Leamington, Ontario and were the 'largest purchaser of tomatoes in Ontario'. 'More than 1,000 hard-working Canadians at our Mont Royal Quebec facility, together with our many suppliers in the Province, produce HEINZ Ketchup for Canadians using tomatoes grown in Leamington, Ontario. 'As one of the largest manufacturers of food in the country, Kraft Heinz is also the largest purchaser of tomatoes in Ontario. 'With the exception of the five years from 2015 to 2020, we have made HEINZ Ketchup in Canada for more than 100 years. 'We were resolute in our decision to bring the production of HEINZ Ketchup back to Canada in 2020 and are proud that HEINZ Ketchup is made in Canada, by Canadians, using Canadian tomatoes,' the strongly-worded statement read. Within hours of taking office on January 20, President Trump reiterated how he is considering a 25 percent tariff, targeting the United States' closest neighbors and trading partners while sitting in the Oval Office. 'It's something I've been thinking about for a long time,' Trump remarked during the press briefing and said he plans to impose them on February 1. The slight delay has been described as a 'brief reprieve' by analysts, offering businesses and trading partners a short window to brace for the potential economic impacts. Furthermore, Kraft Heinz Canada also revealed that they only used tomatoes grown in Leamington, Ontario and were the 'largest purchaser of tomatoes in Ontario' Referencing the 2018 trade spat during Donald Trump's first term in the White House , the PM used HEINZ ketchup as an example to ask people to buy their own country's products On January 21, Trudeau told reporters that his government will retaliate against any tolls imposed on the country after President Donald Trump indicated he would force a 25 percent trade tariff on Canada The proposed 25 percent tariff would represent a significant escalation in trade tensions and could impact a wide range of industries, from agriculture to automotive manufacturing. He also warned world leaders they could face crippling economic sanctions if they don't start manufacturing in America in a blistering speech to the World Economic Forum on January 23. The president said nations 'will pay' if they opt against doing business in the United States and touted a return to the 'Golden Age' of financial prosperity. He also offered an incentive of lower taxes and rates to nations that choose to move more of their business while he is in the White House. In remarks putting the globe on notice, he said his message was very simple: 'Come make your product in America and we will give you among the lowest taxes of any nation on earth... but if you don't make your product in America, then very simply, you will have to pay a tariff.' As he rolled out his strategy to boost American manufacturing, he also urged Canada to become the 51st state to avoid the crippling economic sanctions he could deploy worldwide. In the wide-ranging speech he reiterated his desire to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine and said he will ask Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a $1 trillion investment and a reduction in oil prices. He also criticized Bank of America CEO Bryan Moynihan, claiming his conservative supporters had been denied services. Alleged Idaho quadruple-killer Brian Kohberger's defense team is fighting to get the roommate of the victims' testimony thrown out of his murder case in a move that could help him walk free. This week's hearings are centered on what evidence will be allowed in his trial, including what prosecutors say is DNA evidence found on a knife sheath found inside the Moscow, Idaho, home where four students were stabbed to death over two years ago. Lead defense attorney Anne Taylor slammed the investigation into her client as largely conducted without any transparency and therefor should not be admitted. 'This is a situation where this identification was done in complete secret behind closed doors,' she said. Taylor specifically cited the testimony of one of the two surviving roommates of the four victims given shortly after the murders. 'There are two references to not remembering. And a couple of days later in the third interview, there are references to not remembering, being drunk,' Taylor said. 'A statement, 'I don't know any of it, like half this stuff I don't know if it was a dream or if it's real'. And credibility is really, really important when this person was relied on in the investigation.' Taylor noted that the roommate testified to having heard one of the victims go up and down the stairs when the attack happened, which 'they know... is wrong.' Alleged Idaho quadruple-killer Brian Kohberger's defense team is fighting to get the roommate of the victims' testimony thrown out of his murder case in a move that could help him walk free Taylor specifically cited the testimony of one of the two surviving roommates of the four victims given shortly after the murders The judge was never told this information at the time which led to her questioning how this investigation was conducted, connecting back to the gathering of DNA from the button snap of a knife sheath. Taylor also hammered away at the investigators' use of investigative genetic genealogy, which she claims is unreliable. The process involves taking DNA samples and putting them through a federal criminal database but experts claim authorities can take it to a different database . The defense argues the FBI didn't have a warrant to collaborate with a local trash collector in his Pennsylvania neighborhood to find the DNA that connected them to Kohberger. 'I think it's interesting when you have the FBI telling the trash man what to do,' Taylor said. 'There was nothing obtained that violated the defendant's constitutional rights,' Ashley Jennings, representing the prosecution, responded. 'The defendant has failed to submit any false statement or admission, without which the magistrate would not have found probable cause.' Although the murder weapon has never been found, officials say the DNA on the sheath matched Kohberger's genetic profile, which was compiled by taking genetic data from distant relatives on public databases. Suspected quadruple killer Bryan Kohberger Kohberger is accused of murdering University of Idaho students (L-R) Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle on November 13, 2022 District Judge Steven Hippler still hasn't made a decision as to what would be open to the public, saying he was concerned by fervent media and public attention on Kohberger's murder case as he tries to ensure a fair trial. While noting he hoped to show 'as much as possible' of Kohberger's case to the public, Hippler said he would close the DNA evidence portion of the hearing as he can't 'unring the bell' once potentially shocking information is heard. The judge indicated that other portions of the hearings would be streamed online but the courtroom would be closed, due to concerns that he may have to unexpectedly close brief aspects of the hearings. It comes as the case against Kohberger - who has not appeared in court for three months - has been delayed several times since his arrest in December 2022, with the accused killer now set to stand trial in August 2025. Latah County officials say they intend to seek the death penalty if he is convicted over the grisly murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin, in their off-campus home in November 2022. Partial DNA evidence found on a Ka-Bar knife sheath found at the scene of the murders was a key piece of evidence used by law enforcement to indict and arrest Kohberger. Kohberger's attorneys argue that this method of how the DNA evidence was obtained violated his constitutional rights, with the DNA evidence's admissibility set to be decided this week. His initial trial date was set for October 2023. However, his lead defense attorney Anne Taylor has filed for multiple extensions and further hearings since his arrest, sparking anger from the victims' families. The families of the victims have shared their frustration at the unending delays, with the mother of Kaylee Goncalves (left, with Madison Mogen) saying: 'It's gut-wrenching how slow everything has to go. Why does this have to be so drawn out?' Boyfriend and girlfriend Ethan Chapin (left) and Xana Kernodle (right) were slain in bed together in the gruesome murders in November 2022 Kohberger's team also delayed revealing his official alibi until May 2024, and when he finally did so, prosecutors and the public reacted with dismay as he claimed he was 'driving alone' on the night of the murders 'to look at the moon and stars.' In that filing, Taylor said she would be calling on a phone data analysis expert to back up his claims he was miles from the scene, which is one of the pieces of evidence prosecutors and the defense have repeatedly clashed over. Kohberger has maintained his innocence since his arrest in December 2022, over a month after the murders that shocked the nation. Social media flew into a frenzy after his arrest as internet sleuths pored over the lanky teaching assistant's history, revealing everything from his middle-school bullying at the hands of popular classmates to his humiliating Tinder dates. The month-long search for the alleged killer led to widespread media attention, with the families of the victims since using the spotlight to condemn the proceedings against Kohberger. In December 2023, the mother of victim Kaylee Goncalves said the ongoing process has been 'gut wrenching.' 'It's gut-wrenching how slow everything has to go. Why does this have to be so drawn out?' Kaylee's mother Krisi said in an interview with KHQ. 'It's important, I get it, but there are facts, we have certain facts, we have certain knowledge. I can't believe that this is how it works.' From cellphone data produced by prosecutors, the route allegedly driven by Bryan Kohberger on the night of the brutal Idaho murders may be a crucial piece of evidence in the state's case against the 28-year-old. In his new alibi filing, his lawyers say they plan to dispute this data The off-campus home where the four grisly murders took place was torn down in December amid the delays, despite calls from the victims' families to keep it standing Investigators were seen in January 2023 removing a bloodied mattress from the home where four University of Idaho were murdered In December 2023, Idaho officials again came under fire after the off-campus home where the four students were stabbed to death was torn down, against the victim's families' wishes. Although both prosecution and defense agreed for it to be torn down, the families argued against it, with Goncalves' loved ones fearing the move would 'destroy one of the most critical pieces of evidence in the case.' Before it was torn down, the scenes inside the home were so gruesome that exclusive DailyMail.com images showed blood seeping down the outsides of the property. When he was arrested, prosecutors cited partial DNA matches found on a Ka-Bar knife sheath found at the home. No murder weapon has ever been found. In an ongoing back-and-forth over such evidence in court - also including cell phone data and surveillance allegedly of Kohberger's car at the crime scene - the defense claimed that prosecutors have not turned over what they may present in court. Taylor filed a motion last summer to compel the defense to do so, with the defense countering that they are restricted by some federal laws due to the FBI's involvement in the case. The defense has also filed to dismiss the entire case, claiming he was indicted by a biased grand jury and the case was tainted by misconduct by the prosecution and the admission of invalid evidence. The motion was denied. Last month, it emerged that Kohberger was previously investigated in connection to a home invasion in Pullman, Washington in October 2021, just 10 miles from the quadruple murders in Moscow, Idaho. He was never charged in that investigation. Labour last night faced calls to take control of the UK's justice system after international rules stopped the Southport killer from being locked up for the rest of his life. Pressure mounted on the Government after No 10 refused to consider overwriting or ignoring a United Nations convention, which prevents anyone under the age of 18 from being handed a whole-life sentence. Calls came from politicians, a former director of public prosecutions and Southport residents. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child tied the hands of Mr Justice Goose as he passed sentence on Axel Rudakubana this week, with the judge making clear that had the triple killer been an adult at the time of the killings, he would have made sure he was never released. But as Rudakubana carried out his attack nine days short of his 18th birthday, he fell under the convention and was instead jailed for a minimum of 52 years. That sentence, despite being the longest handed to someone of his age, is already under review after a complaint it was 'unduly lenient' and sparked a debate about whether judges should be constrained in such a way. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp urged Sir Keir Starmer to reconsider his stance on the issue, telling the Mail: 'Looking at this appalling case, I believe the judge should have had the ability to impose a whole-life order if he wanted to. 'The Government is wrong to dismiss off-the-cuff calls for changes to sentencing law, especially when requested by victims' families. We owe it to the families to look at this.' Labour last night faced calls to take control of the UK's justice system after international rules stopped Southport killer Axel Rudakubana from being locked up for the rest of his life The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child tied the hands of Mr Justice Goose as he passed sentence on Axel Rudakubana this week, with the judge making clear that had the triple killer been an adult at the time of the killings, he would have made sure he was never released Make these cowards listen from their cells Murderers who refuse to attend sentencing hearings should have victim impact statements piped into their cells, a union boss said last night. Mark Fairhurst, of the Prison Officers Association, said it was high time cowardly criminals were forced to listen to grieving families as well as to judges sentencing remarks. He said it was wrong that killers continued to be appeased at the expense of victims families, many of whom want criminals to hear how the offending has affected them. His comments come after Axel Rudakubana joined a long list of killers who either refused to attend court for sentencing, or who were so disruptive they were ordered to be removed from the dock. Mr Fairhurst said: We could do this by isolating them in a court cell and having an audio system that pipes the comments through to the cell. The time has come for the victims to receive the justice they deserve. Advertisement Southport father-of-three Liam Rice, whose taxi-driver colleague unwittingly gave Rudakubana a lift to the dance class to carry out his massacre, said: 'The law should be changed he should remain in prison for life. 'Considering what he's done and the damage he's caused to so many lives and families, I'd argue that life in prison is even too good [for him].' Echoing a call by party leader Kemi Badenoch, Tory justice spokesman Robert Jenrick said: 'It's right that the criminal law generally distinguishes between young people and adults. 'But in exceptional cases, there is a strong case for giving judges the discretion to act. 'Labour's claim that international law prevents a change is a distraction ploy that overlooks the UK's dualist legal system. 'Starmer's predictable attempts to gold-plate international law are no excuse for inaction.' Former Tory minister Neil O'Brien said: 'It's pathetic and disrespectful that the Government won't even look into this.' Reform UK leader Nigel Farage added: 'Once again we have foreign institutions dictating how we live. 'This is unacceptable.' A Downing Street spokesman said: 'Whole-life orders are not something we're looking at.' He indicated controversial Attorney General Lord Hermer, who has pledged to make the UK a 'leader in the field of international law', was consulted on the issue. Sir Keir Starmer has been urged to reconsider his stance on the issue Today the Mail was told Rudakubana faces being moved around prisons for his own safety because he will have a bounty on his head. Pictured: The killer in a taxi before the stabbings Lord (Ken) Macdonald, who led the Crown Prosecution Service before Sir Keir took up the post in 2008, told The Daily Telegraph: 'In a case this ghastly, where the trigger age is so close, I think there will be some public disquiet.' It came as the Mail was told Rudakubana faces being moved around prisons for his own safety because he will have a bounty on his head. The killer will also likely be held in isolation, with his relocations meaning his 52-year term will cost taxpayers 2.7 million. President Donald Trump returned again to talking about absorbing Canada into the U.S., this time trying out arguments that might persuade citizens north of the border and telling them they'd get better health care and lower taxes. Trump went on the Canada trek when asked about when tariffs are coming, on a day he toured storm damage in North Carolina and fire damage in Los Angeles. He had threatened to slap tariffs on Canada, Europe, China, and Russia, raising new threats in video remarks to the Davos conference. Trump didnt respond directly, but told reporters they are going to make our country rich and youre going to be a rich, rich country very soon. He allowed that trade imbalances could impact which nations get tariffed, but said inaccurately that we lose $200 billion to Canada every year. The trade deficit with Canada is expected to be $45 billion for 2024. Trump sometimes puts it as high as $250 billion. That's because we allow them to make cars. We allow them to take lumber. We don't need their cars. We don't need their lumber. We don't need their food products because we make the same products right on the other side of the border. It's sort of crazy, Trump said. U.S. manufacturers including General Motors have plans north of the Canadian border, and the two countries are top trading partners. President Donald Trump speaks as he meets with homeowners affected by Hurricane Helene in Swannanoa, N.C., Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. He said Canadians would get a 'tremendous tax cut' if they became a U.S. state Then Trump returned to his call to make Canada a U.S. state, saying the norther neighbors would get a tax cut and better health coverage. Canada has a universal health care system that the government pays for. The U.S. has a private-based system that leaves an estimated 26 million uninsured. I would love to see Canada be the 51st state. The Canadian citizens, if that happened, would get a very big tax cut, tremendous tax cut, because they're very highly taxed,' Trump said. Then he returned to an earlier theme, talking about the security umbrella that the U.S. provides. 'And you wouldn't have to worry about military, you wouldn't have to worry about many of the things. You'd have better health coverage. You'd have much better health coverage. So I think the people of Canada would like it, you know, if it's explained, Trump said. Canadian officials including outgoing PM Justin Trudeau have rejected Trump's idea. But his administration has continued to carry out his other proposals signalling U.S. domination. The Interior Department announced in a statement Friday that the highest peak in North America will once again be designated Mount McKinley to honor American greatness.' The Gulf of Mexico will now be officially called the Gulf of America, despite the Mexican government ridiculing President Trumps earlier pronouncements on it. If Trump were to slap big tariffs onto Canada and Mexico, it could throw both economies into recession, some economists are warning. But making Canada a U.S. state could actually cost Trump by adding likely Democratic Senate seats and padding the House with liberal members. Republicans hold a narrow majority and get boosts from political gerrymandering. A poll by J.L. Partners shows deep U.S. reservations about the idea. Trump this week once again referred to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as 'governor Trudeau' even though he announced he will resign when a new leader is chosen. Madeleine McCann suspect Christian Brueckner is considering fleeing Europe and changing his face in a bid to avoid being recognised. The convicted paedophile - who is currently nearing the end of his jail sentence for raping an elderly woman - appears to be planning a fresh start upon his release. The 48-year-old is set to walk free from jail in September and could be allowed on day release in the coming weeks. Brueckner has been discussing moving to a country that doesn't have an extradition treaty with Germany or Britain and where the police are no longer investigating Madeleine's disappearance. Speaking to the Mirror one of Brueckner's lawyers, Philipp Marquort, said: 'Sometimes he wants to stay here in Germany, sometimes he wants to leave Europe. 'If I were him I would leave Europe and look for a state which doesn't extradite to Europe or Great Britain, maybe like Suriname.' Brueckner, who speaks English and Portuguese, as well as his native German, has also mentioned changing the way he looks due to his concerns he may be recognised by the public, Mr Marquort says. The lawyer added that if he were Brueckner he would undergo surgery to change his face but said due to lack of finances this isn't an option for him and he will have to settle for a 'fake moustache or sunglasses or a hat' instead. Madeleine McCann suspect Christian Brueckner (pictured, left) is considering fleeing Europe and changing his face in a ploy to dodge probes into her disappearance. The convicted pedophile is currently nearing the end of his jail sentence for raping an elderly woman and appears to be planning a fresh start upon his release Christian Brueckner has been discussing moving to a country that doesn't have an extradition treaty with Germany or Britain and where the Met are no longer investigating Madeleine's disappearance Madeleine McCann (pictured) went missing on May 3, 2007 at the age of just three. She has never been found. German criminal Christian Brueckner has been named by German prosecutors as their chief suspect in her disappearance Brueckner is currently locked up at Sehnde Prison, near Hanover, where he is serving seven years for raping a pensioner in Praia da Luz on the Algarve, where Madeleine vanished in May, 2007, aged almost four. He was identified as the prime suspect for Madeleine McCann's abduction and murder' in June 2020. Brueckner has denied any involvement in her disappearance, but German officials insist 'he is the man' though charges were never brought. He is now waiting for the green light from prison officials to allow him out on day release. Mr Marquort says it is typical for inmates to be allowed out to visit cafes and shops around eight months before the end of their sentence. Police in three countries are searching for more concrete evidence against Brueckner but prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters told Sky News earlier this month that their efforts may not pay off. He said: 'There is currently no prospect of an indictment in the Maddie case. Police in three countries are searching for more concrete evidence against Brueckner but prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters (pictured) told Sky News earlier this month that their efforts may not pay off 'As things stand, the accused Christian B's imprisonment will end in early September.' Mr Marquort welcomed the prosecutor's statement and told the broadcaster: 'This confirms the suspicions that we have repeatedly expressed, namely that there is no reliable evidence against our client. 'We regret that we have not yet been granted access to the investigation files. We have not yet been able to effectively counter the public prejudice arising from statements made by the prosecutor's office.' Prosecutors are expected to lodge an appeal against the verdicts next month, but Mr Marquort is confident it will not succeed and will not stop his client being released from jail. He says Brueckner will be given a government funded discharge grant of around 2,000 Euros upon his release in order to help him adjust to life on the outside. He was bashed with a metal rod and left seriously injured An Aussie couple's dream holiday to Thailand turned into a nightmare when a street vendor allegedly bashed the husband after they refused to buy anything. Nayeem Hasan Antu and Sunayna Mandipa from Sydney were walking through the popular Palladium Night Markets, in Bangkok, on December 26 when things took an ugly turn. The couple, who were also with their family from Australia, were perusing the street food and clothes for sale as they made their way through the packed area. Ms Mandipa and her mother browsed through a few clothes at several stalls before they moved on because they couldn't find the right size. The move is understood to have made one vendor angry and he began to demand money from the mother and daughter. 'When we objected to payment as we did not buy any clothes, nor did we take any photos with any of his products, he started screaming how Indians were not allowed in Thailand,' Ms Mandipa told 7 News. 'I clarified that I was not an Indian, but an Australian, which seemed to fuel his anger further.' The vendor allegedly pushed her, prompting Mr Hasan Antu to intervene. Medical tests revealed Mr Hasan Antu has blood clots in his brain and he also sustained a small fracture in his skull Blood was left on the pavement after the alleged bashing, and the couple supplied a photo to local police 'My husband stood in front of me and asked the man to back-off. 'In a span of a moment, (the vendor) turned around, took out a metal rod with a sharp pointy head and hit my husband twice in the head and once to the chest.' Mr Hasan Antu suffered serious injuries and was left bleeding from the side of his head. The vendor allegedly fled the scene. Ms Mandipa said she 'panicked' and frantically tried to stop the bleeding as she yelled out to bystanders nearby as they watched on. 'I called the Thai police and the language barrier made it even harder to communicate,' she said. Ms Mandipa said they were also not provided with an interpreter while they were speaking to officers. She claims the first hospital Mr Hasan Antu was transferred to refused to treat him unless he paid AUD $500 up front to cover the cost of his medical treatment. The Aussie tourists were forced to go to another hospital where Mr Hasan Antu received multiple stiches for his injuries. The couple also provided a photo of the alleged offender to local police The pair were dealt a further blow as they had to pay medical bills out of their own pocket because they didn't have travel insurance. The couple, who tried book flights back to Australia on the day Mr Hasan Antu was allegedly attacked, flew back home on New Year's Day. Mr Hasan Antu underwent further tests and also received a CT scan. The tests revealed he has blood clots in his brain and he also sustained a small fracture in his skull. Ms Mandipa said her husband is slowly recovering from his ordeal and the incident has taken a toll on both of them. The quest to obtain evidence of the alleged attack also became difficult when security guards allegedly refused to hand over CCTV footage. The guards also didn't disclose the name of the vendor, however Ms Mandipa managed to provide police with a photo of him, as well as an image of her husband's blood on the pavement. She also provided officers with the stall number and where the store is located. Thai police are also understood to have taken their medical records in a bid to get the vendor to pay for the cost of their treatment, but Ms Mandipa doesn't believe that will happen. The incident happened at the popular Palladium Night Markets in Bangkok She said the police told her in Thailand, racism against Australians was not illegal. Ms Mandipa also contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) on December 27 after police said the Australian embassy may need to step in to resolve the matter. Officials from DFAT said the matter is between the couple and Thai police. Daily Mail Australia has contacted DFAT for further comment. A legal battle brought by Prince Harry, Baroness Lawrence and others against the Mail is costing a manifestly excessive amount of money, two judges ruled yesterday. They said the estimated 38.8 million case costs were outside the range of reasonable. Senior Master Cook, who manages court case budgets, said he and trial judge Mr Justice Nicklin had little difficulty concluding that such sums were manifestly excessive. They said in a ruling that the allegations were really rather simple compared with other cases, such as medical negligence claims, often brought before the High Court. Slashing both sides budgets, the judges said: We have concluded that the sums sought by both sides are clearly outside the range of reasonable and proportionate costs. The Duke of Sussex, Baroness Lawrence the mother of murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence and five others launched court action in 2022 against Associated Newspapers, which publishes the Daily Mail and The Mail On Sunday. It emerged at a recent hearing that Baroness Lawrence launched her legal battle after Harry sent her a text message which the court heard the Labour peer had since lost and possibly deleted. The claimants, who also include Sir Elton John and actress Sadie Frost, say they brought their legal action after being told of alleged confessions from a private investigator that he had hacked phones, tapped land-lines and bugged cars. The Duke of Sussex launched court action in 2022 against Associated Newspapers which publishes the Daily Mail and The Mail On Sunday Baroness Doreen Lawrence, the mother of Stephen Lawrence who was stabbed to death in London in 1993, arriving at 10 Downing Street, London, on September 9, 2024 Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex waves as he arrives at the Royal Courts of Justice, Britain's High Court, in central London on March 28, 2023 All of the allegations are firmly denied by Associated Newspapers which has described them as lurid and simply preposterous as well as untrue. The private investigator in question also signed a statement saying he had not been instructed by Associated Newspapers to carry out any unlawful activities. A nine-week trial is due to begin in January 2026 to test the disputed allegations that articles published by the newspapers were the product of unlawful information gathering. Judge Cook said the issues at stake were simple and the claimants would either prove or fail to prove that an article was the product of unlawful activity. He added: The fact that these claimants are well-known, and the litigation high-profile, does not affect the issues that must be resolved. The ruling, coming two days after Prince Harry settled his legal battle with The Suns publisher, noted that lawyers for the duke, Baroness Lawrence and the others now had considerable expertise in this type of litigation and were not starting from scratch, which was one of the reasons their proposed costs were deemed disproportionate. Mr Justice Nicklin previously warned the claimants their accusations of phone hacking, burglary and bugging needed to be backed up by admissible evidence or withdrawn. The Sun settled with Harry after intense negotiations to do a deal out of court. In the Mails case, yesterdays ruling states that while the seven claimants have budgeted 216,000 for out-of-court negotiations known as alternative dispute resolution, it was not believed by Associated Newspapers that this was possible and the newspaper is not budgeting any money for settlement talks. A renowned JFK assassination expert predicted that the release of classified files related to the president's death may be set to 'embarrass' the CIA. Gerald Posner, who wrote noted biography on the assassination 'Case Closed: Lee Harvey Oswald and the Assassination of JFK', said Donald Trump's release of the files could send shockwaves through the agency. 'I think that we could actually find the files that are very embarrassing to the CIA and one of the reasons theyve held on to these for so long,' he told Fox News. Posner rejects conspiracy theories that anyone besides Oswald killed Kennedy, but posits that the CIA was responsible for letting the known Soviet sympathizer and unhinged veteran slip through the net. 'Lee Harvey Oswald, the fellow who shoots the president, ends up going to Mexico City only six weeks before he kills Kennedy,' he said. 'He wants to get down to Havana, to Cuba, because he wants to join the Castro Revolution, but hes rejected by the Soviets and the Cubans... I think the CIA was surveying him. 'They knew what he was doing. They knew he was unhinged, that he had taken out a pistol and slammed it on the table at the Soviet mission.' Posner claims the CIA understood the threat Oswald posed but failed to tell the FBI when he re-entered the United States, equating the oversight to 'the same type of thing as on 9/11, when the agencies don't talk to each other.' A renowned JFK assassination expert predicted that the release of classified files related to the president's death may be set to 'embarrass' the CIA While the expert, Gerald Posner, rejects conspiracy theories that anyone besides Lee Harvey Oswald (pictured) killed Kennedy, but posits that the CIA was responsible for letting the known Soviet sympathizer and unhinged veteran slip through the net Posner said this week that he has long suspected the CIA was partially responsible for Kennedy's assassination being allowed to happen, but was eager to see the classified files release to see if his theory is correct. 'I used to think it was the Mafia involved because Jack Ruby, who looks like hes out of central casting for a Mafia figure, ends up killing Lee Harvey Oswald, the arrested assassin, only two days after hes arrested in police custody,' he continued. 'Of course, you have to think that looks like a silencing. 'You go into this suspicious, but, in the end, I think there were conspiracies: The mob, maybe Castro, maybe the KGB, they wanted Kennedy dead, but Oswald got there before any of them. He wasnt part of a plot.' In a separate interview with the New York Post, Posner said even if the perpetrators of the assassinations of JFK as well as Martin Luther King Jr. - who's classified files will also be released by Trump - are not disputed, the files will likely reveal 'fascinating' new details. 'One of the things that I find if I talk to just people on the street the minute that the Kennedy assassination comes up, nine times out of 10, they know a little bit about it: What about those documents? What are they hiding?'' he said. 'Thats the theory: Youre holding onto these secret files for 60 years. You must be hiding something.'' President Trump signed executive orders this week that will release long-classified files related to the assassinations of JFK, his brother RFK and Martin Luther King Jr. Gerald Posner (pictured) said while the documents' release is likely to reveal 'fascinating' details, the public should not get their hopes up for a 'smoking gun' that will reveal different killers However, Posner said he the public shouldn't get their hopes up for a 'smoking gun' to reveal a different killer. 'I think people are looking for something bigger, a gotcha moment, a smoking-gun document, Heres how we killed JFK,'' he continued. 'Its not going to be in there because it doesnt exist.' When Trump signed executive orders this week that will release the files, he noted that 'a lot of people have been waiting for this for a long time.' The executive order directs his Director of National Intelligence to put together a plan within 15 days for the full release of documents about the JFK assassination, with Martin Luther King Jr.'s files also set to be released within 45 days. Conspiracies have swirled for decades claiming JFK's assassin Lee Harvey Oswald was not a lone actor and was working with Soviets or Cubans or even the U.S. CIA The executive order, obtained by DailyMail.com, said: 'More than 50 years after the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Federal Government has not released to the public all of its records related to those events. 'Their families and the American people deserve transparency and truth. It is in the national interest to finally release all records related to these assassinations without delay.' He made a similar promise in his first term but gave way to the CIA and FBI who argued that some documents should be kept from the public for fear they would reveal national security secrets. Trump teased his plan during his Fox News interview with Sean Hannity on Wednesday evening. 'Im going to release them immediately,' he said. 'Were going to see the information. We are looking at it right now.' Megyn Kelly predicts the earth would shake in Washington if rumors of Barack and Michelle Obama getting a divorce turn out to be true. Speculation on the Obamas' relationship status has run rampant in recent weeks, coming to a head when Michelle skipped out on both the inauguration and Jimmy Carter's funeral that Barack attended. Most recently, Meghan McCain and journalist Tara Palmieri both confirmed that not only had they heard the rumors but said they'd learned that the Obamas 'live separate lives'. On The Megyn Kelly Show Thursday, the former Fox and NBC anchor speculated on the rumors for herself. 'I do not know whether this is true at all. But if it is true, it truly would be a political earthquake in Democrat circles, nevermind America. I dont remember a presidential divorce in modern history,' she said. She then went to the codebreaker for many who have speculated that the pair have split up, an unflattering photo that Barack Obama posted to social media a week ago. 'Did you see the post he put out to celebrate for their anniversary? He chose the least attractive photo of her that's ever been released. I mean, this is just wrong,' Kelly said. Kelly noted that the former First Lady 'can look very nice in a photograph' but that the photo her husband sent out did not do her justice. Megyn Kelly predicted the earth would shake in Washington if rumors of Barack and Michelle Obama getting a divorce turn out to be true Kelly went to the codebreaker for many who have speculated that the pair have split up, an unflattering photo that Barack Obama posted to social media a week ago 'They're about 20 feet apart in this intimate dinner. And he looks great. This is classic. He's like, this is a great picture. He's got the 1000 watt smile. She looks terrible.' She and her guests wondered of palace intrigue that the rumors - which include a since-denied story of Obama dating actress Jennifer Aniston - were started by the Bidens. Kelly squealed: 'This is next level, just to be clear, you are suggesting that maybe there is something going on between Barack and Jennifer and The Bidens are leaking it!' The image featured a smiling Barack in a gray button down top and black dress pants, as he sat across from Michelle, who donned a dark V-neck sweater dress and a patterned headpiece. They lovingly grabbed each other's hands as they faced the camera. Michelle has since shared the post to her own account alongside a simple caption that read: 'Love you, honey!' Michelle - who turned 61 years old last week - was not present at former President Jimmy Carter's funeral on January 9 due to a 'scheduling conflict.' In addition, it was revealed that she would not be attending Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony with her husband on Monday. She and her guests wondered of palace intrigue that the rumors - which include a since-denied story of Obama dating actress Jennifer Aniston - were started by the Bidens The Office of Barack and Michelle Obama told Associated Press this week in a statement, 'Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former first lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.' Immediately after the announcement, fans of the political power couple became concerned that there may be trouble in paradise. However, there were some who dismissed the rumor and instead suggested Michelle was only making a political statement. The last time the pair was seen together was in early mid-December, over a month ago, when they stepped out for dinner in Los Angeles. Last October, actress Jennifer Aniston publicly shut down 'absolutely untrue' claims by a US gossip magazine that she and Barack were in a relationship making Michelle feel 'betrayed.' The rumor was compounded by the hosts of a popular pop culture podcast Who? Weekly, who claimed that the Obamas were 'living separate lives' while he and Jennifer were having a full-blown affair. The Friends star told a US TV chat show host: 'I've met him once. I know Michelle more than him.' The couple, who first met in 1989 when they both worked at a law firm in Chicago, married in 1992. The couple, who first met in 1989 when they both worked at a law firm in Chicago, married in 1992 They welcomed their first daughter, Malia, six years later in 1998, and their second daughter, Sasha, in 2001. Over the years, the couple has spoken candidly about their martial struggles, with Michelle previously describing the 'resentment' she had over having to put her career on hold to be a mother while Barack's continued to flourish. And tensions only grew during their time in the White House - thanks to the immense 'pressure' that came with 'needing to get everything right and be "on" at every moment,' as well as Barack's focus on his work rather than his family. But even at their worst, Barack explained to The Breakfast Club that they never let their arguments turn too ugly - and that they always 'respected' one another. And he made it clear that even when they would fight, he never considered a divorce. 'We were pretty good even when things were tough, we never loss basic respect for the other person,' he shared. 'We never thought that person was a bad person. We never said things that would make it seem that you completely disrespect me. 'It was more, "I love you, Barack, but this is driving me crazy," or, "I respect you, but..." I think that's what kept us 'cause we never doubted each other's intentions. 'Michelle is a remarkable woman. Even if she drives me crazy sometimes, I never thought that there was anybody who I would rather be with.' A Metropolitan Police officer convicted of assault for slapping a 16-year-old boy in the face has been given a community order. PC Sevda Gonen, 33, was found guilty of two counts of assault by beating after slapping the boy multiple times in the face and carrying out an unlawful search of him on November 14, 2023. She was sentenced at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday to a 12-month community order including 150 hours of unpaid work. District Judge Briony Clarke also ordered her to pay 3,000 in costs, 250 in compensation and a 114 victim surcharge. PC Stuart Price, 35, was also found guilty in December of carrying out an unlawful search of the boy, amounting to assault by beating. He was ordered to pay a fine of 500, costs of 2,000, a victim surcharge of 200 and compensation of 100. The Metropolitan Police said Gonen had been suspended and Price 'remains on restricted duties'. The force added that it would be liaising with the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) regarding misconduct procedures. PC Sevda Gonen, 33, was found guilty of two counts of assault by beating after slapping the boy multiple times in the face and carrying out an unlawful search of him on November 14, 2023 She was sentenced at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday to a 12-month community order including 150 hours of unpaid work The officers were initially called after the boy was reported to have been aggressive at his home address and violent towards a mental health worker who was attempting to perform an assessment, the trial heard. A camera inside a police vehicle captured conversation between the officers on their way to the boy's home, in which Gonen was heard to call him 'a f****** little shit'. Pc Price said of the boy: 'He's a f****** dickhead,' with Gonen replying: 'I've had enough of him.' Once at the address, Price, of Gamlingay, Cambridgeshire, offered to drive the boy to hospital in a police van after his mother told officers she was concerned for her son's welfare. Footage from within the police vehicle showed that the boy lit a cigarette and started to smoke as the van was driven to hospital. During the trial, Gonen said the boy's smoking made her 'panic' as there were 'huge safety risks', adding she suffers from asthma and smoking in the vehicle was 'criminal damage'. A search of the boy after the officers expressed concern he could have something in his pockets was found to be unlawful as he had not been arrested. Gonen then said she was worried about him spitting, so put a coat collar by his mouth, the trial heard. The boy's eyes lowered and he became less responsive, with Price heard on the footage saying: 'You all right, mate? We're just trying to help you, mate.' Price then said to Gonen: 'Yeah, he's hot to touch.' In footage shown to the court, Gonen appeared to slap the boy's face several times while holding him by the hair, causing his eyes to flicker. Discussing her actions, Gonen told the trial: 'Any time there was a concern for his life, I decided the best course of action was to gently slap him on his cheeks. 'I was never trying to hurt him, this was solely for his own safety.' Area Commander Hayley Sewart said Gonen's slapping of the boy was 'deeply troubling' and 'well below the standards and behaviour we expect from our officer'. In a statement, Ms Sewart added: 'We know this incident had a significant impact on the victim and his family, and I would like to apologise to them for the distress and upset caused. 'Very sadly, what started out as an attempt to get the right medical attention for a teenager in mental health crisis quickly escalated to the events we saw unfold that day. 'The decision to charge and subsequently convict the officers with assault because the search was deemed to be unlawful, however, raises important questions and we need to now take some time to understand the outcome and carefully consider the possible wider implications for officers and policing in general.' Mexican authorities blocked a US military plane from deporting illegal migrants on Thursday after Donald Trump's immigration crackdown began. American officials told NBC News a packed jet never took off after authorities south of the border rejected the move. The flight was one of three that were set to take off on Thursday, alongside two Guatemala-bound Air Force C-17s carrying over 150 people, as part of what Trump has described as the largest mass deportation effort in US history. Deporting migrants to foreign countries requires permission from the incoming nation's government, which Mexico declined on Thursday. It is not clear why Mexican authorities moved to block the flight, which came hours after an American hiker was also shot by suspected Mexican cartel members in California a few hundred yards north of the border. Trump's return to the White House quickly inflamed relations between the two nations, with the new president threatening to impose a 25 percent tariff on Mexican imports in retaliation for mass migration across southern border. As he toured natural disaster sites in North Carolina and California on Friday, Trump issued a stern warning to illegal migrants with criminal records, saying 'we're taking them out first.' While Mexican authorities have shown their disapproval for the deportations, Trump's administration has praised their own efforts this week, with new Secretary of State Marco Rubio also posting a video of migrants being marched onto the military aircrafts to Guatemala on Thursday. Mexican authorities blocked a US military plane from deporting illegal migrants on Thursday amid rising tensions between the two nations Two other flights set for Guatemala (pictured) arrived late in the day The surprise move from Mexico came as President Trump's deportation crackdown began The deportation flights were part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal immigrants ordered by Trump in the early days of his presidency. On Thursday, it was revealed that his immigration force has arrested over 1,300 illegal migrants, with Border Czar Tom Homan pledging to continue ramping up the effort. Homan told NewsNation on Thursday night that of the 1,300 migrants arrested so far, 'over 1,000 of them were criminals.' He slammed sanctuary city policies for having allowed migrants with long rap sheets remain in US cities as they declined to alert ICE of their whereabouts during the Biden-era. 'I don't care if Republican or Democrat, Independent, why not let law enforcement go into a county jail, taxpayer county jail, to arrest the guy that you locked in a jail cell so obviously, the public safety threat that will solve a lot of this problem,' he said. 'And I hope the sanctuary cities come around.' The updated ICE statistics come after federal authorities said Tuesday that a sweep of sanctuary cities led to the arrest of over 300 illegal migrants on Trump's first full day. Guatemalan migrants sit on a bus after arriving at La Aurora Air Force Base on a deportation flight from the U.S. Donald Trump's deportation force announced Thursday that it has arrested over 1,300 illegal migrants in the early days of his presidency as his immigration crackdown began this week It comes as an additional 1,500 active-duty troops arrived Thursday at the southern border Four C-17 and C-130 military aircraft were moved to El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California this week for the purposes of deportation flights. One of those C-17's was the jet rejected by Mexican authorities on Thursday President Trump's hardline Border Czar Tom Homan warned that local governments that seek to shield illegal migrants from deportation forces could now face criminal prosecution Thursday morning also marked the start of Trump's move to deploy the US military to the southern border, with 1,500 active-duty troops arriving early in the day. The Pentagon confirmed the 1,000 Army soldiers and 500 Marines deployed south include those from Military Police units as well as combat engineers and intelligence specialists to aid in detection and monitoring of illegal border jumpers. The additional active forces, which adds to the roughly 2,500 already currently stationed along the border, will also aid in constructing barriers along the border and providing the air power for deportations. Over 5,400 migrants who are currently in detention in the US will be flown out of the country by the military forces, as a show of force for Trump's early days back in the White House. As part of the effort, four C-17 and C-130 military aircraft were moved to El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California this week, an official told Task & Purpose. One of those C-17's was the jet rejected by Mexican authorities on Thursday. Trump is planning to send a total of 10,000 active-duty military to the border. A London court has ordered a Colorado mother accused of murdering two of her children and running away to the UK to be extradited for a trial in the US. Kimberlee Singler, 36, is wanted in Colorado Springs for the first degree murders of her daughter Elianna, nine, and son Aden, seven, on December 19, 2023. She is also accused of attempting to murder her third child, who was then aged 11. Police, responding to a 911 report of a burglary at an apartment complex on the 5300 block of Palomino Ranch Point, in the northeast of the city, at around 12.30am found Singler and her still-living daughter lying next to the bodies of the kids. But an investigation later found that the initial burglary report and 911 call was 'unfounded'. Singler then fled 5,000 miles to Britain, where she went on the run for several days before being arrested in Kensington, London, by the National Crime Agency on December 30. She had appealed against her extradition on the grounds that if convicted, Singler would face a life sentence without the option for parole - a potential breach of her European human rights. However, after weeks of hearings at the Westminster Magistrates Court, Judge John Zani paved the way for the British Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper to order Singler to return back to Colorado on January 24. A London court has ordered Kimberlee Singler, 36, a Colorado mother accused of murdering her daughter Elianna, nine, and son Aden, seven, and running away to the UK to be extradited and stand trial in the US Singler's daughter Elianna 'Elie' Wentz (pictured left), 9 and Aden Wentz (pictured right), 7 In a written judgment, Judge Zani stated that her extradition would be lawful due to a 'working mechanism of review in the form of executive clemency' - indicating that the governor of Colorado may pardon her. He further added that he was 'of the firm opinion that the defendant's extradition to the United States of America to face criminal prosecution complies' with her constitutional rights. The Colorado Springs Police Department said it remains unclear when the accused could be sent back to the United States. 'CSPD is aware of the ongoing extradition process regarding Kimberlee Singler, as well as the legal rights still afforded her in the UK. 'Our investigative efforts into the ongoing case are continuing, and we will continue to work diligently toward its conclusion,' spokesperson Ira Cronin said in a statement. According to NBC, the accused intends to appeal the decision to the British Supreme Court. She also could possibly submit an appeal at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France in an effort to further delaying her return. The troubled mother has 14 days to launch an appeal. She had appealed against her extradition on the grounds that if convicted, Singler would face a life sentence without the option for parole, which can be a breach of her European human rights Police, responding to a 911 report of a burglary at an apartment complex on the 5300 block of Palomino Ranch Point, in the northeast of the city, at around 12.30am found Singler and her still-living daughter, 11 , lying next to the bodies of the kids Singler was also involved in a lengthy custody battle with her ex-husband, Kevin Wentz and was just days away from losing the kids In a written judgment, Judge Zani stated that her extradition would be lawful due to a 'working mechanism of review in the form of executive clemency' - indicating that the governor of Colorado may pardon her On the day of the incident, she told officials that an intruder had entered the apartment that morning through a patio door she forgot to lock and attacked her and and she lost consciousness Singler has denied that she harmed her children. She told police that her ex-husband had either carried out the killings or hired a hitman Singler was also involved in a lengthy custody battle with her ex-husband, Kevin Wentz and was just days away from losing the kids. Two days before the crimes, she had been due to hand over the children to Wentz for the holidays but had refused to let his sister pick them up. Singler has denied that she harmed her children. She told police that her ex-husband had either carried out the killings or hired a hitman. On the day of the incident, she told officials that an intruder had entered the apartment that morning through a patio door she forgot to lock and attacked her and and she lost consciousness. Police said they found no footprints in the snow leading to the patio. The mother had superficial knife wounds and was initially treated as a victim. But that changed after her surviving daughter, who initially told police a similar intruder story, said her Singler tried to kill her. While the accused had initially cooperated with police but vanished, triggering a US-wide hunt. She was arrested by NCA officers for offences including two counts of murder and one of attempted murder. Singler is also accused of two counts of class two felony child abuse, one of class three felony child abuse, and one of assault. Grace Tame has nabbed the limelight at the 2025 Australian of the Year morning tea with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, three years on from her infamous 'side-eye' meeting with Scott Morrison. The 2021 Australian of the Year wore a T-shirt emblazoned with 'F*** Murdoch' on the front as she was greeted by a poker-faced Mr Albanese and his fiancee, Jodie Haydon, at The Lodge in Canberra on Saturday. The 30-year-old, who just this week stepped down from her foundation and announced she had been appointed a brand ambassador for Nike, has long taken issue with how her story has been portrayed in the media, particularly News Corp. In 2022, the outspoken advocate for survivors of sexual assault stirred controversy when she attended the same event as the outgoing Australian of the Year. When Ms Tame and her then-partner Max Heerey arrived, they were greeted by then-PM Morrison and his wife Jenny, who congratulated them on their recent engagement. But Ms Tame remained stony faced as they posed for pictures, which captured her giving Mr Morrison an ice-cold 'side-eye' expression that quickly sparked a flood of memes. She later addressed the snub on Twitter, commenting that the survival of abuse culture 'is dependent on submissive smiles, self-defeating surrenders and hypocrisy'. 'What I did wasn't an act of martyrdom in the gender culture war,' she wrote. The 2021 Australian of the Year wore a T-shirt emblazoned with 'F*** Murdoch' on the front 2021 Australian of the Year Grace Tame wore an incendiary T-Shirt to this year's morning tea event with Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon In 2022, the outspoken advocate (pictured) for survivors of sexual assault stirred controversy when she attended the same event as the outgoing Australian of the Year The 30-year-old, who just this week stepped down from her foundation and announced she had been appointed a brand ambassador for Nike 'It's true that many women are sick of being told to smile, often by men, for the benefit of men. But it's not just women who are conditioned to smile...To conform to the status quo, it's all of us.' Ms Tame had been highly critical of Mr Morrison and his government's response to allegations of sexual assault and toxic workplace culture in federal parliament. Her meeting with Mr Albanese on Saturday appeared to be in stark contrast, smiling warmly and laughing as she mingled with the PM, other guests and nominees for this year's awards. Ms Tame has been vocal about her perceived unsympathetic treatment by the media. She described 2021 as 're-traumatising' and penned a scathing article about the Murdoch press in newsletter Crikey. Former prime minister and fellow Murdoch combatant Kevin Rudd even once piped up on News Corp's treatment of Ms Tame, supporting the activist on Twitter after the Courier Mail published an article questioning her criticism of Scott Morrison. 'There goes Murdoch, trying to bully Grace Tame like they have so many voices for progress over the years,' he wrote. 'They whine about 'cancel culture' but they will try to cancel anyone who doesn't share their reactionary worldview. We need more diversity, not less.' Grace Tame (right) gave Scott Morrison (left) a filthy side-eye glance at a morning tea for the 2022 Australian state and territory award recipients at the Lodge in Canberra Grace Tame is pictured holding up her Australian of the Year award in Canberra in 2021 The winners of the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Canberra on Saturday. More than 30 finalists are in the running to be named Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia's Local Hero. A victim of a Telford grooming gang has revealed her shock at discovering that one of her rapists is up for parole. Kate Elysia was 18 years old when she moved out of her home in Shropshire in May 2007 and into a large house in Telford that had been converted into a dozen flats. One month later on June 17, 2007, she was confronted by a man at her front door who forced his way in before going on to rape her. The second year college student went to her local police station with the intention of filing a report, however she told the Times that 'the police told me that if I reported it as rape they would have to arrest the man. She added: 'If I said it was consensual they would not have to arrest him. I said it was consensual they would not have to arrest him. So I had to say it was consensual because if they arrested him I was at risk.' Later that evening, two other men forced their way into her flat and raped her. Speaking on BBC Newsnight she said: 'Mohammed Ali Sultan, he raped me two days after I'd been raped by his cousin. 'He brought his friend round and I was also raped by his friend. This was a calculated move because I had rejected a proposition from Ali Sultan earlier on.' Kate Elysia was 18 years old when she moved out of her home in Shropshire in May 2007 and into a large house in Telford that had been converted into a dozen flats Ms Elysia went on the reveal she had 'no idea' that her rapist Mohammed Ali Sultan had been up for parole She reported the rapes to the police again in 2010 and due her testimony two men Shahmeel Khan and Mohammed Ali Sultan were convicted. Sultan was given a six-year term with five years on licence and received three concurrent ten-year sentences She went on the reveal she had 'no idea' that her rapist Sultan had been up for parole 'At first I was a bit taken aback and didn't really know what to do,' she said 'I was tempted to not tell anyone and keep it a secret. I just want to not think about it. 'Then I realised I need to inform my family, for example, just in case something happens after his release. So I was scared for me and I was scared for my family.' Ms Elysia, now 36, has also told how she was driven to different properties to take part in sex parties with men who had recently arrived from Pakistan. She spent four months inside the grooming gang before she won a place to study in Essex. Ms Elysia, now 36, has also told how she was driven to different properties to take part in sex parties with men who had recently arrived from Pakistan Ms Elysia hit out at Elon Musk saying that his social media antics does not allow her to move on and 'have a normal life' 'I applied to university through clearing. I had wanted to do psychology but I was offered a place to do mental health nursing and I took it just for the sake of getting out of there. I literally ran away,' she said. On January 3 Elon Musk took to his platform X (formerly Twitter) calling the safeguarding minister Jess Phillips a 'rape genocide apologist' as he sent dozens of posts on the f British Muslim grooming gangs subject. The multi-billionaire has also called for for far-right activist Tommy Robinson - real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - to be freed. Musk has also called for Sir Keir Starmer to be jailed accusing the PM of being 'complicit in the rape of Britain' over the grooming gangs scandal. Ms Elysia hit out at the Tesla billionaire saying that his social media antics does not allow her to move on and 'have a normal life'. She said: 'One reason I was very angry is that he's [Elon Musk] making me think about it again when I'm trying to move on. 'I am trying to have a normal life and he is still talking about Tommy Robinson in that documentary he did.' She admitted that she still thinks about it 'most nights'. 'I have a little cry. I get upset remembering the things I used to think about myself. I feel really sad for the girl that I used to be, who was vulnerable and who went through that,' she said. The Tories will push for a ban on smartphones in schools to be included in the Government's education Bill. The Conservatives are tabling an amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill to end the use of mobile phones and other devices during school days by pupils. It is understood that the Labour Government has no plans to legislate on banning phones in schools, and the Department for Education said schools are already able to decide how to prohibit the use of phones. Under former prime minister Rishi Sunak, the then-Conservative government issued non-statutory guidance to schools in England intended to stop the use of mobile phones during break and lunch periods in schools, as well as in lessons. The Tories are now tabling an amendment to a Labour Bill in a bid to stop pupils using mobile phones and devices during the school day. It would mandate that all schools in England put a policy in place that applies from the start of the day's first lesson to the end of the last. Schools would decide how to implement the ban and there would be flexibility for sixth forms and residential or boarding schools. It comes as several leading educational figures, including the woman dubbed the nation's strictest head teacher, have called on the British government to implement a smartphone ban for students during school hours. In their letter today, MPs urge the PM to fund the installation of lockers in all schools and to update guidance for Ofsted The group warns that the prevalence of smartphones among teenage children 'has serious implications for learning' (Stock Image) Ms. Birbalsingh is part of a group of 30 educationalists calling on the UK government to ban smartphones in schools across Britain Katharine Birbalsingh, head teacher of Michaela Community School in Wembley, North London, previously appeared on ITV's documentary Britain's Strictest Headmistress and made national headlines earlier this year following her banning of prayer rituals during school hours. Now, along with 30 other prominent educationalists such as Lord Nash, former Conservative schools minister, have penned an open letter calling for stricter smartphone governance in British schools. Shadow education secretary Laura Trott said: 'We have a growing understanding of how damaging phones and social media are on our children's education. 'That's why we believe that smartphones in schools should be banned during the school day. 'This is the right thing for parents, teachers and children, and I hope Labour will back it.' Cumberland Community School in Newham, East London, made headlines in 2023 when they persuaded half their students to delete social media apps from their phones over the exam season. TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram were ditched for two months to be replaced by compulsory revision sessions - with some students agreeing to surrender their smart phones entirely to avoid any temptation or distraction. Shadow education secretary Laura Trott believes smart phones should be banned during the school day Amin Opayemi and Dania Olajide were among students at Cumberland Community School in Newham, East London who ditched social media while sitting their GCSEs The inner-city school is now among the most consistently improved in the UK (Gov.uk) Since repeating the pioneering effort last year, the school's progress score has jumped by a grade and a quarter, leaving it among the most consistently improved in the UK. And the inner-city academy now has 62 percent its of GCSE students achieving at least a Grade 5 in both English and maths sixteen points above the average across England. A Department for Education spokesperson said the Bill would be a 'seminal moment' for children and that there is already clear guidance for schools on mobile phones. The spokesperson said: 'The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill will be a seminal moment for the safety and success of our children, from new safeguards around home education to breakfast clubs in every primary school to set children up to learn. 'There is already clear government guidance which helps headteachers to decide how best to prohibit phones in a way that will work in their own schools. If pupils fail to follow those rules, schools have the power to confiscate devices.' The Conservatives used an attempt to block the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill earlier this month to force a vote on calls for a new inquiry into grooming gangs. This week Kemi Badenoch raised concerns over the Bill's impact on academy freedoms, including on teacher recruitment and pay. The new Bill would ensure all teachers will be part of the same core pay and conditions framework, whether they work in a local authority-run school or an academy. The Bill also includes measures allowing councils to open new schools which are not academies, and it will end the forced academisation of schools run by local authorities which are identified as a concern by Ofsted. Biomass company Drax is not 'fit and proper' and should not be receiving 7billion in green subsidies, MPs said yesterday. Speaking during a debate on a proposed Climate and Nature Bill, Labour MP Barry Gardiner criticised the wood-burning firm. He accused it of 'deliberately misreporting' the sustainability of the wood pellets that it uses to fire its plant near Selby, North Yorkshire. It follows a BBC Panorama investigation which claimed that the power company burned wood from some of the world's most precious forests in Canada - which Drax denies. Yet the company is still in receipt of billions in environmental subsidies from UK households because the electricity it produces is classified as renewable. The company imports the equivalent of 27million trees a year which it ships to the UK to burn. Biomass makes up around 8 per cent of the UK's 'green' power generation - most of it from Drax. Yesterday, MPs used a debate on the private member's bill to raise concerns about the company and its environmental impact. The company is still in receipt of billions in environmental subsidies from UK households because the electricity it produces is classified as renewable. Pictured: The Drax Power Station near Selby, North Yorkshire Drax imports the equivalent of 27million trees a year which it ships to the UK to burn Mr Gardiner told the Commons: 'We cannot allow the damage to old growth and to virgin forests that we know is happening in Canada.' He added that accounts from whistleblowers which were raised in the Lords had given added weight to an investigation by the regulator into the company. Ofgem found that 'the sustainability of the feedstock had been not only misreported but deliberately misreported,' he said. 'That means that the people concerned in Drax are not fit and proper to run the company, and we should not be paying them,' he added. Tory grandee Sir Roger Gale also told MPs: 'Like the last Government, this Government are subsidising Drax, to the tune of billions of pounds. 'For why? To transport millions of trees, felled and shipped across the Atlantic at God knows what carbon cost, to burn in the interest of some sort of future carbon-free fuel-which, of course, it is not. 'Why are we allowing this, and why are we paying for it?' It came after the former BBC director-general Lord Birt told fellow peers last year that he had seen 'deeply troubling' claims by whistleblowers. Tory grandee Sir Roger Gale also told MPs: 'Like the last Government, this Government are subsidising Drax, to the tune of billions of pounds' 'It is troubling reading. They allege outright dishonesty, cover-up, offers of under-the-table bribes and naked threats by some senior Drax executives,' he said. A spokesman for Energy Secretary Ed Miliband did not respond to requests for comment on whether he shared the concerns of MPs, and whether he was comfortable with billpayers subsidising wood burning. Drax was contacted for comment. A$AP Rocky broke his silence at the end of his first week in court during his high-stakes gun trial that could land him behind bars. As the rapper strode to a waiting SUV to whisk him away, when asked if he had a message for his supporters Rocky confidently responded: 'I love you', before shutting the door behind him. Rocky managed to avoid the crowd of reporters and most of the paparazzi by slipping out a side door, TMZ reported. The rapper previously rejected a plea deal that would have resulted in six months of jail time and now faced up to 24 years in prison if convicted. But before jurors were even seated Friday on the first day of testimony at Rapper A$AP Rocky's trial, prosecutors dropped a bombshell by revealing a ballistics report that could link the hip hop star to the gun he's accused of firing at a former friend. The existence of the never-before-seen 28-page document prompted an angry outburst from lead defense attorney Joe Tacopina who accused Los Angeles deputy District Attorneys of ambushing him and telling Judge Mark Arnold: 'This report should be suppressed without question.' He continued: 'There is no way to proceed in this case if this report is admitted into evidence I have never been so upset in a courtroom in my whole career.' The 36-year-old hip-hop star and fashion icon showed up Friday at criminal court in downtown LA wearing a light gray tailored suit, white shirt, blue tie and shiny black dress shoes. A$AP Rocky was spotted leaving court following proceedings in his ongoing trial on Friday A$AP Rocky listens to opening remarks in his trial at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center on Friday in Los Angeles, California The charges stem from an altercation in Hollywood in November 2021 between Rocky and fellow rapper A$AP Relli, pictured, who was a member with Rocky in the ASAP Mob rap group that started in Harlem in 2006 On his way into the courtroom he shoved reporters and videographers out of the way as he made his way into the building. Rocky - father to superstar Rihanna's two young children - has pleaded not guilty to two felony charges of assaulting his former friend and bandmate Terell Ephron with a semiautomatic firearm in November 2021 and he's facing up to 24 years in prison if convicted of both. He was arrested in April 2022 at LAX airport as he stepped off a private plane from Barbados where he had been on vacation with multiple Grammy-winner Rihanna, also 36. He has been free on bail of $550,000 since his arrest. His trial - which is expected to last at least two weeks - began on Tuesday with selection of jurors and by Thursday evening, a jury of seven women and five men - plus four alternates - was in place. Before the jury was seated Friday, Deputy District Attorney (DDA) John Lewin told the court that it was only on Thursday night they became aware of a ballistics report which found that two spent shell casings found at the scene of the shooting could have come from the 9mm Glock 43 gun Rocky is accused of using. And he insisted that he and DDA Paul Przelomiec did not deliberately withhold it from defense counsel. But Tacopina told the court that he found it hard to believe that LA Police detectives 'did not bring this to the DA's attention before now'. And he urged Judge Arnold that if the report is admitted into evidence, the trial should be suspended until the defense has had time to have its own experts examine it. The 36 year-old hip-hop star and fashion icon showed up on Friday at criminal court in downtown LA wearing a light gray tailored suit, white shirt, blue tie and shiny black dress shoes Rapper A$AP Rocky's criminal trial for shooting his former friend kicked off on Tuesday in Los Angeles. He is pictured in court on Friday Tacopina urged LA Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold to suspend the trial until the document had been examined thoroughly Video was played in court of Rocky and Ephron getting into a shoving match 'Mr. Mayers pointed a gun at Mr Ephron's chest, threatened him and said 'I'm going to kill you.,' said Pzelomiec as he showed the court a surveillance video of the two confronting each other and Rocky holding a gun The judge refused to exclude the report, telling Tacopina that he did not believe 'there was any nefarious conduct' by prosecutors. 'It's not a smoking gun - it does not mean that your client is guilty,' he added. But he ordered prosecutors not to mention the report in their opening statement to jurors and he told defense lawyers to urgently find a ballistics expert of their own - at the court's cost - to examine the report as quickly as possible. After the jury finally was led into court Friday, DDA Przelomiec began the prosecution's opening statement, telling the court that Rocky and Ephron - another rapper going by the name A$AP Relli - had been friends since they were teenagers in a group called ASAP Mob that started in New York in 2005. Their relationship deteriorated over the years and bye the time of the alleged shooting on November 6 2021, 'there was a lot of tension between them.' After exchanging some hostile texts the two agreed to meet near the W Hotel in Hollywood where Rocky showed up with two other rap friends ASAP 12vvt and A$AP Illz. Rocky and Ephron got into a shoving match and in court, 'Mr. Mayers pointed a gun at Mr Ephron's chest, threatened him and said 'I'm going to kill you.,' said Pzelomiec as he showed the court a surveillance video of the two confronting each other and Rocky holding a gun which he shoves into his waistband. When Rocky and the two others walked away, Ephron followed 'yelling and screaming' at his ex buddy and about another block later they get into another altercation. Pzelomiec showed another, very grainy video taken from a different surveillance camera, in which two figures he said were Rocky and Ephron can be seen and two gunshots can be heard on the audio. The prosecutor then showed the court photos of Ephron's bloody hand where he said he was hit by bullets fired in the shooting. Cops alerted by 911 calls didn't find any any victim or evidence at the scene but, said Pzelomiec, Ephron returned to the scene and found two spent shell casings which he handed int to the police two days later. The existence of the never-before-seen 28-page document prompted an angry outburst from lead defense attorney Joe Tacopina, left, LA Deputy District Attorney Paul Przelomiec, right, claimed they did not deliberately withhold the document from defense counsel Rocky, real name Rakim Athelaston Mayers, is facing up to eight years in jail if convicted of two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm Przelomiec added that when police searched Rocky's home in April 2022, in his bedroom closet they found a magazine for a semi-automatic pistol loaded with six live rounds. But no gun was found. He poured scorn on the defense attorneys claim that the weapon involved in the shooting was a 'prop gun or starter pistol.' 'Don't leave you common sense at the door,' he told jurors. In his opening statement to jurors, Rocky's lawyer, Joe Tacopina painted Terell 'A$AP Relli' Ephron as a 'parasite' motivated by a civil lawsuit he's brought against Rocky in which he's asking for $30 million. 'He is a proven criminal and perjurer. He lies about everything in this case,' the attorney told the court. 'The evidence is going to make clear that he is trying to extort money from Rocky.' Tacopina said Relli was 'resentful and angry' over the greater musical success of his one-time teenage pal and band-mate Rocky 'and he embarked on a dangerous course of action.' Hearing that Rocky didn't pay for the funeral of a mutual friend, 'Relli was furious - he threatened physical violence against Rocky,' he went on. 'But he was wrong - Rocky did pay for the funeral,' added Tacopina who said that before his encounter with Rocky in Hollywood on November 6 2021, Relli 'was angry and it was he who was the one looking for a fight that night.' Tacopina slammed the prosecution's 'exagerated' claims from a video that Ricky stuck a gun in Relli's stomach and pointed it at his chest, saying there was 'no video evidence' of that happening. And he described Relli as the 'aggressor,' saying the video showed Relli was pulling Rocky, Rocky was not pushing Relli.' 'The object Relli claims was a firearm was nothing more than a prop gun used in movies and music videos..and to scare off attackers.' Tacopina said that Rocky had been the victim of attacks in the past - one in which his face was slashed - and his security advised him to carry the prop gun, which had been used several months earlier in a music video Rocy made with Rihanna. 'Rocky is licensed by the state of California to carry a firearm but he did not want to carry a real gun.' After their first encounter where Rocky was caught on camera with a gun in his hand and waistband, he, A$AP 12vvy and A$AP Illz walked away from Relli, 'trying to get away from him.' 'Relli followed them, pursuing them,' said Tacopina who told the jury that Relli's 'anger and hatred boiled over' and he started attacking and punching Illz, who is much smaller. 'He was pummeling Ills and Rocky used the prop gun to defend him. He fired the prop gun twice, hoping to scare off Relli.' Rocky and Rihanna share two children, RZA Athelston Mayers, two, and Riot Rose Mayers, 16 months A$AP Rocky and his superstar girlfriend Rihanna were seen in New York City on January 2 Later that night, said Tacopina, Relli 'hatched his extortion plan by attempting to fabricate evidence.' Relli returned to the scene of the shooting an hour later and found two spent shell casings which he didn't hand in to the police till two days later, said the lawyer - who threw doubt on Relli's story saying 'seven police officers came to the scene (before Reli returned that night) and found nothing. 'There were no shell casings. No bullet fragments,.no damage to cars, no broken windows. There was no evidence of a real gun being fired. 'The evidence will show that Reli fabricated those shell casings to extort Rocky. There was no real gun.' As for the prosecution's photos of blood on Relli's hand, Tacopina said that was most likely caused by scraping his knuckles on the pavement. '$30 million for a knucklehead scrape,' he sniffed. 'Those scrapes are no more proof of a real gunshot than those shell casing are.' Tacopina said that Relli only handed the shell casings to cops two days later because the attorney he asked to handle his lawsuit against Rocky would only take the case if he reported the assault to the police. Th defense attorney also said that the shell casings found at the scene by Relli were a different brand from the ones in the magazine of live rounds found during a search of Rocky's home. A white mother-of-two who flew into a panic when she thought a black man was following her has tearfully claimed it was a 'misunderstanding' after receiving death threats. Michelle Bishop was jogging with her young kids in their posh Ohio neighborhood in when she became convinced that DaMichael Jenkins was inappropriately following her in his car. A panicked Bishop tried seeking refuge at a nearby home but was left shocked when Jenkins pulled his truck into the driveway and got out - telling the worried mother that he lived there as his wife, Brittany answered the door. 'I don't believe that,' Bishop said, before taking off with her son in her arms and her daughter following close behind - leaving the stroller to fall off the Jenkins' porch. She then ran around the neighborhood, hysterically crying for 'help.' However, it turned out he was just on his way home the night of the incident, November 19, and was driving slowly through the neighborhood to admire his Christmas lights. The interaction recently went viral after the video was shared on a community Facebook page. Bishop soon released an apology video to Jenkins and his wife and said never wanted to make anyone feel excluded - denying that it was a 'malicious, racial profiling incident'. In an interview with Fox News Digital, the mother-of-two said that claims of her being racist are 'completely false' and the result of a 'massive misunderstanding.' Michelle Bishop, a mother-of-two who flew into a panic when she thought a black man was following her has tearfully claimed it was a 'misunderstanding' after receiving death threats Jenkins told Bishop he was just admiring his Christmas lights, and was not following her Bishop further revealed that she had apologized numerous times to the Jenkins family before the video was posted but they would not accept. She had assumed that the neighbors were now at peace but was left shocked after the Ring camera footage of the incident was posted on a local neighborhood Facebook group - fueling rumors of her being discriminatory. 'It is causing massive devastation to our family in every way that you can possibly think,' she said. 'Our family, our businesses. We are receiving hundreds, if not thousands, of threats at this point in our direct messages, to our phones, voicemails calling into stores. But some of the threats that we have received have become death threats.' Text messages reviewed by Dailymail.com revealed threats that read, 'YOU & your kids need to die slow,' and 'Bye bye CEO [laughing emoji] now your husband gonna be a single dad.' A message shared by her with Fox also read: 'You and your children deserve to die slow and you should kill yourself or it will be done for you.' 'We know who you are and where you live. Your husband is going to come home to being a single Dad. You should be hung in public,' another also said. The threats have also resulted in the temporary closure of her business, a fitness brand called The Ladies Edge. Surveillance footage shows Michelle Bishop and her children on the porch of DaMichael Jenkins' home after running away from him as he pulled into his driveway She was jogging with her two young kids in their posh Ohio neighborhood in when she became convinced that DaMichael Jenkins (pictured) was inappropriately following her in his car 'There are multiple that are very graphic and violent in regards to our children that I do not want to share here. 'Our businesses have seen massive devastation, one of them having to close temporarily due to death threats, calling into our shop, saying that they are going to kill every last one of the employees. So it is affecting us in massive ways,' she told the channel between tears. Furthermore, Bishop claimed that she had 'absolutely' no idea that Jenkins was black and even told the neighbor at the house she ran to that the driver might have been white. 'The headlights were behind me and then the first time I looked out in the driveway at his truck, the headlights were there and I was not specifically trying to look at him,' Bishop said. 'I was addressing the situation. I absolutely did not know what he looked like. Like I said, I thought he was a young white man. It was all a massive misunderstanding. That's all that it was.' After the initial incident, Bishop returned to the Jenkins' home with her husband to pick up her stroller. Jenkins's wife, Brittany answered the door and asked her why she was afraid of her husband. Bishop's husband interjected and said that she thought she was being 'chased.' Brittany informed the couple that Jenkins lived there and wasn't chasing her. Jenkins then came out of the house and said he didn't understand how he could've scared her. He then explained that he was only slowing down to admire his Christmas lights. Bishop soon released an apology video to Jenkins and his wife and said never wanted to make anyone feel excluded - denying that it was a 'malicious, racial profiling incident' After the initial incident, Bishop returned to the Jenkins' home with her husband to pick up her stroller. Jenkins's wife, Brittany answered the door and asked her why she was afraid of her husband She had previously took to her Facebook account and went live for almost a half hour trying to explain what had happened but commenters accused her of racial profiling and not taking accountability for the race-driven mistake 'Well, you just have to understand my point of view - being by myself, I have two kids,' she said. Bishop then accused Jenkins of not being friendly enough when he pulled into his home. The Bishop family awkwardly left the Jenkins' residence, but the tensions didn't stop there. After their video went viral, the Jenkins family was invited to tell their story on the Nightcap podcast with Shannon Sharpe and Chad 'Ochocinco' Johnson. Jenkins said that he was afraid when Bishop began to run and scream for help. 'At that point - now I'm in fear. I'm in fear because I know what we face as black men in America,' he told Sharpe and Johnson. The couple said that the incident made them feel unsafe and excluded in their own neighborhood. They added that Bishop never reached out to them for a sincere apology and the closest thing they received was her message on Facebook Live. When asked for comment, Bishop claimed to Dailymail.com, 'I have made multiple attempts to apologize directly to the Jenkins family, in addition to apologizing in the moment and through public videos. The claim that I have not offered a sincere apology is inaccurate.' Brittany and DaMichael Jenkins discussed the incident on a recent episode of Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco's Nightcap podcast She had previously took to her Facebook account and went live for almost a half hour trying to explain what had happened but commenters accused her of racial profiling and not taking accountability for the race-driven mistake. But now, Bishop simply wishes to reconcile with the Jenkins family. 'I think what happened that night was a massive misunderstanding,' continued Bishop. 'I do hold their heart, hearing their perspective on things. I've never been in their shoes. 'I don't know what they're up against. I can't speak to that. So hearing their point of view and how he felt, I understand that. But it really was a massive misunderstanding. I really wish, I do hope and wish that they understand that on that night I was a mama bear trying to protect my kids. 'That is all that. It was a massive misunderstanding and if given the opportunity, like I said, I would love to reconcile that relationship.' Jenkins and Bishop live in an affluent community in Delaware County, Ohio. The county is the wealthiest in the state. The median household income in Delaware County is $119,030 while the median home price is $473,000. Bishop's home was previously priced at $890,000 while Jenkins house is believed to be priced at $851,300. President Donald Trump flew into enemy territory on Friday, visiting California as part of a tour of natural disasters that doubled as a victory lap. He toured an area of leveled homes and blackened trees to see the extraordinary damage for himself. And then he clashed with the city's Democratic mayor and a liberal lawmaker over how to go about building thousands of homes destroyed by ferocious fires after hearing from families who said that regulations were stopping them beginning the work of rebuilding. 'They just said they can't start for 18 months,' he said during a discussion in a Pacific Palisades fire house. Mayor Karen Bass said she had cut regulations: 'You can hold me to that.' But she said safety had to be a paramount concern. 'You know first, we have to get rid of hazardous waste,' she said. 'We are expediting everything. We need your help.' 'Sure, you have it', said Trump. President Donald Trump talks with California Gov. Gavin Newsom after arriving on Air Force One at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, on Friday Trump spoke with residents as he toured a fire-affected area in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles Marine One, carrying US President Donald Trump, flies above devastation caused by wildfires around Los Angeles, California, on Friday These were his people, he continued saying that he understood them. People who knew how to rebuild their homes safely. 'They want to start now, they want to start cleaning up,' he said. 'You said hazardous waste - what is that? You have to define it. Are we gonna go through a whole series of questions on defining it.' Their voices raised in volume as the red-tape cutting property developer met a city leader who wasn't going to sacrifice safety for speed. He had the room, with dozens of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and people who had lost everything on his side. And loyal ally Ric Grenell, once his ambassador to Germany and a top intelligence official in his first administration, led the applause, as one half of America met the other. It was always going to be a tricky meeting. Trump has threatened to withhold aid and in the morning repeated a false claim that Governor Gavin Newsom had refused to provide water to fight the fires in Los Angeles. It was the second half of a disaster tour after visiting Asheville, North Carolina, devastated by Hurricane Helene last year. U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend a briefing on wildfire damage as they visit the Pacific Palisades neighborhood that was damaged by the Palisades Fire Marine One, carrying US President Donald Trump, flies above devastation A helicopter from the fleet carrying President Donald Trump flies over an area devastated by the Palisades Fire, in Pacific Palisades President Donald Trump shakes hands with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass after a fire briefing Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass watches as President Donald Trump talks after a briefing There he met with families who watched parts of their homes simply float away. And he mulled the idea of disbanding the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 'FEMA has turned out to be a disaster,' he said during a tour. 'I think we recommend that FEMA go away.' He repeatedly suggested the best way to respond to emergencies was to trust states to get on with the job themselves, sidestepping the federal bureaucracy. It was Trump's first trip since reclaiming the White House on Monday. It was part lap of honor and part a chance to show that he was governing for all Americans, whether they live in blue or red states. Traveling journalists were given a four-page readout of his achievements during his first 100 hours in office all held together with a gold-colored paperclip. And Trump seemed in good humor throughout, repeatedly seeking out his travelling press pool to answer questions and give his thoughts on disaster relief. Friday's blue state was always going to be more of a challenge than North Carolina. The president flew over an area of leveled homes and blackened trees to see the extraordinary damage for himself The president flew over the devastation before heading to an area on the ground Trump speaks to reporters before boarding Air Force One at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, California, on his way to Las Vegas, Nevada U.S. President Donald Trump and Ric Grenell, Presidential Envoy for Special Missions, attend a briefing on wildfire damage He has poured scorn on the city and state leadership, blaming them for a poor response to wildfires that have killed at least 28 people and caused billions of dollars of damage. But it began with a moment of detente as he stepped off Air Force One at Los Angeles International Airport and gave a half hug to Governor Newsom, nicknamed 'Newscum' by the president. Afterward, Trump told reporters traveling with him that he was grateful the governor came to welcome him. 'We're looking to get something completed, and the way you get it completed is to work together with he governor of the state and we're going to get it completed,' he said. He then got an aerial view of the rebuilding task ahead as Marine One flew over ash-filled hills to Pacific Palisades, one of the worst affected areas. He was taken to Fiske Street where not a house was left standing. All that remained where chimney stacks, looking for all the world like medieval ruins of abbeys in Europe, where just the stone columns dot the landscape. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump walk with Jason Hing, Chief Deputy of Emergency Services at the Los Angles Fire Department, left, and Capt. Jeff Brown, Chief of Station 69, as they tour the Pacific Palisades neighborhood affected by recent wildfires in LA Trump and first lady Melania walk with Jason Hing, Chief Deputy of Emergency Services at the Los Angles Fire Department, left, and Capt. Jeff Brown, Chief of Station 69, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump spoke with Los Angeles firefighters Trump took the time to greet LA firefighters during a tour of the Pacific Palisades neighborhood Trump and wife Melania moved down the line of LA firefighters to speak with each of them 'It's really not believable,' was his brief characterization of what he'd been shown. He met two families who stood outside their empty lots with pictures of what their homes once looked like. And he posed for photos with some of the firefighters who have risked their lives to tackle the blazes. His first interactions with Bass seemed friendly enough. They shook hands warmly and she sat just to his right, separated from the president by the first lady. 'Thank you Karen Bass. It's nice to meet you,' he said as he welcomed the participants. But the differences between the Republican president and the mostly Democratic officials soon became clear. When Rep. Brad Sherman asked that tariffs be removed from building materials, Trump's response was testy: 'We'll look at that,' he said. Tariffs are a key cornerstone of his foreign and economic policies. Worse was to follow when Sherman tried to defend FEMA, which Trump has branded variously as incompetent or corrupt. They spoke over each other, much to Trump's evident irritation. He raised his voice to drown out Sherman. 'If you use FEMA you'll be here for a long time,' he said, cutting off his opponent. Eight people and a dog have been injured after a balcony suddenly collapsed during an outdoor lunch that went horribly wrong. Emergency services rushed to the home on O'Donohue Road in Anglesea, west of Torquay in Victoria, just before 2pm on Saturday. A Victoria Police spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia the balcony fell around 2.5metres to the ground. 'Three men, three women and two teenage girls were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries,' the spokeswoman said. The spokeswoman said crews from the State Emergency Service had cordoned off the area and a building surveyor is set to attend the scene to examine the structural damage. A Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman told Daily Mail seven people were taken to Geelong University Hospital for treatment. Crews from the SES and firefighters from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) as well as crews from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) are also at the scene. A SES spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia the timber structure fell onto three people. Emergency services rushed to the home on O'Donohue Road (pictured) in Anglesea, west of Torquay in Victoria, on Saturday afternoon after the balcony collapsed It is understood seven people were taken to Geelong University Hospital for treatment (pictured stock image) 'SES along with ambulance crews and the CFA helped to extricate the people trapped underneath,' the spokeswoman said The property is understood to be located near the corner of Melba Parade. Daily Mail has contacted Ambulance Victoria and the CFA for further comment. More to come. Bill Maher had harsh words for Luigi Mangione and Gen Z but not before giving some sarcastic advice for who the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooter should've gone after. The liberal comic had been off in December when Mangione-mania spread among mostly young lefties who shockingly declared the vigilante killer of Brian Thompson a hero. Before slamming those who had lionized Mangione, who now could face the death penalty, Maher took shots at those he felt were more responsible for why health care in America is in such a sorry state. 'I guess my question is: why shoot just the insurance guy?' He pointed out that the profit margin for the insurance companies are lower than that for pharmaceuticals and hospitals, whom he cared to the Corleone family from The Godfather. 'Shouldn't we really be shooting hospital execs first? I mean it's only right,' he joked. Maher suggested that the reason people hate insurance agencies more than hospitals is because there are no shows lionizing them the way Grey's Anatomy does hospitals and doctors. He then blamed 'tech bros' who make hospital websites unusable and the people who make bad food that turns people unhealthy. Bill Maher had harsh words for Luigi Mangione and Gen Z but not before giving some sarcastic advice for who the UnitedHealthcare CEO shooter should've gone after The liberal comic had been off in December when Mangione-mania spread among mostly young lefties who shockingly declared the vigilante killer of Brian Thompson a hero 'Watch your back, whomever makes f***ing Twinkies,' he said to applause. Maher turned to Generation Z, 41% of whom approved of the killing of Thompson in a poll. He said that it 'confirms something I wish wasn't true but unfortunately is about, certainly not all, but too many Gen Zers: they're f***ing stupid.' The comic then blamed Hollywood for making 'every single movie about someone who's a hitman' before turning to Mangione himself. 'Luigi, I say to you, good luck in prison where being handsome always makes you popular and congratulations on being a folk hero,' he joked. 'But just know, you're not Robin Hood, you're not a hero, you're a typical member of your generation, too lazy to do the work to really understand the issue but happy to pose as an social justice warrior for it.' Maher compared the young people praising Mangione to people celebrating the wealthy in Los Angeles who lost their homes in the wildfires. 'It's a very popular mindset summed in a phrase called eat the rich,' Maher explained. Before slamming those who had lionized Mangione, who now could face the death penalty, Maher took shots at those he felt were more responsible for why health care in America is in such a sorry state. 'I guess my question is: why shoot just the insurance guy?' Maher turned to Generation Z, 41% of whom approved of the killing of Thompson in a poll 'But kids, I've seen your media consumption and I've seen your social media posts, you don't hate the rich, you hate that you ain't the rich.' The earliest the accused killer of UnitedHealtcare CEO Brian Thompson will return to Manhattan Criminal Court is mid-February, with prosecutors and defense attorneys asking for more time to prepare the case for trial. The lawyers agreed in a letter to the court that the deadline to bring an indictment against Mangione can be extended from January 18 to February 17. Mangione, 26, is now charged in a criminal complaint, a document that is lodged against individuals prior to the return of an indictment. Prosecutors said they consulted with the defense and agreed that extending the deadline was necessary 'to permit both parties adequate preparation for pretrial proceedings and the trial itself.' Lawyers for Mangione and federal prosecutors declined to comment. The case is unusual because at least one charge carries the possibility of the death penalty, but whether to pursue that penalty must be made by the Justice Department in Washington, where top officials will be changed as President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Authorities say Mangione fatally shot Thompson on December 4 as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan. Mangione, 26, is now charged in a criminal complaint, a document that is lodged against individuals prior to the return of an indictment The killing shocked the business community and galvanized some health insurance critics. Mangione posted frequently online about his struggles with back pain, though he was never a UnitedHealthcare client. Federal charges against Mangione include murder and firearms counts. He made an initial appearance on the charges late last month. He won't be required to enter a plea until an indictment is returned. Mangione has pleaded not guilty in a New York state court to multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. His next appearance in state court is scheduled for February 21. The maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Mangione was arrested December 9 in a Pennsylvania McDonalds following a five-day search. He's being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean 'Diddy' Combs and cryptocurrency fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. An Anzac memorial in Melbourne has been vandalised ahead of Australia Day, while a monument to the founder of the city was toppled over and smashed. Victoria Police are investigating both incidents which occurred during the early hours of Saturday morning. The Anzac Memorial on The Avenue in Parkville was covered in red paint and the monument to John Batman, the founder of Melbourne, was destroyed. The Batman memorial at the Queen Victoria Market in the CBD appeared to have been sheared off at its base about 2.20am before it was pushed over and smashed into multiple pieces on the ground. The inscription on the memorial stated that Batman 'entered Port Phillip heads 29th May 1835, as leader of an expedition which he had organised in Launceston V.D.L to form a settlement and founded one on the site of Melbourne, then unoccupied'. A plaque was added in recent years to acknowledge Indigenous Australians. 'The City of Melbourne acknowledges that the historical events and perceptions referred to by this memorial are inaccurate. An apology is made to Indigenous people and to the traditional owners of this land for the wrong beliefs of the past and the personal upset caused,' the addition read. The Anzac statue which bears the inscription 'we died for country, live ye for it' was covered in red paint about 3am. The words 'land back' were graffitied on the statue. The John Batman memorial was destroyed in Melbourne's CBD early on Saturday morning The monument had an inscription referring to Melbourne as 'unoccupied' when the city was founded by John Batman in 1835 Red paint was also smeared across an Anzac statue at The Avenue in Parkville along with the phrase 'land back' (the statue before it was vandalised is pictured) The statue was erected in 1925 to honour soldiers from the area who fought in the First World War. Crews spent Saturday morning cleaning up both sites. Elsewhere in the city, at Ringwood Lake Park about 2am the words 'the colony will fall' and 'this land is stolen' were spray-painted on a marquee used for citizenship ceremonies. Anyone with information on the incidents is urged to contact police. Accused double murderer David Pearce told police during an interview he feared being portrayed as a 'f**king monster.' The Hollywood producer was interviewed by a detective probing the deaths of friends Christy Giles, 24, a model and aspiring actress, and architect Hilda Cabrales-Arzola, 26, who had partied at a Los Angeles rave on November 13, 2021, with Pearce and his friend, actor Brandt Osborn. A video recording of the police interview with Pearce, 43, was played in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom on Friday, on day 13 of the trial. The court also heard that cash totaling $30,250 and his passport were later found in Pearce's black Prius - the same car prosecutors say was used by the men to dump the women's lifeless bodies outside two separate LA hospitals. Both women had been drugged with a fatal cocktail of fentanyl, ketamine, cocaine, heroine, MDMA and the rape drug GHB, the court heard. Prosecutors say Pearce gave them a lethal combination of cocaine, fentanyl and the date rape drug GBH before callously discarding their bodies. Their deaths were classified as drug-induced homicides by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner. Christy Giles, 24, and Hilda Marcela Cabrales Arzola, 26, died in November 2021 after being dumped at separate hospitals by masked men Pearce was arrested in the December 2021 following the deaths and officially charged with two counts of murder and two counts in the sale, transport and furnish of a controlled substance. He is pictured following his arrest Accused double murderer David Pearce, 42, told police during an interview he feared being portrayed as a 'f**king monster.' He has denied all wrongdoing. Pictured 18 years ago in 2007 During an earlier court hearing it had been alleged that Pearce told a friend, 'dead girls can't talk.' In the police interview, conducted at LAPD's Olympic Station in Koreatown, Pearce denied giving drugs to the two women he had met hours earlier and brought back to his apartment. 'I feel horrible that two girls died,' he said. 'They were active drug users and I didn't give them any drugs. I knew they were at a rave. 'I was told that there was a very bad batch of fentanyl going around in the USC (University of Southern California) area. I don't do that stuff. It's scary. It's f**king scary.' At the time of the interview, however, it had not been disclosed that fentanyl was a factor in the women's deaths, Detective Jonathan Vander Lee told the court. In fact, police were not informed until the following April that fentanyl was a factor. 'I didn't think they were dead,' Pearce claimed during his videotaped interview. 'I thought they were breathing that's why I brought them to the hospital. I'm not some f**king monster.' Pearce said he didn't have drugs at the apartment and didn't see the women taking drugs. He said he left to go outside to walk his dog for five to 10 minutes then returned. 'I didn't see anything,' he said. 'I walked my dog and came back in. A video recording of the police interview with Pearce, 43, was played in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom on Friday, on day 13 of the trial. A picture of the interview is seen above Hours after they arrived at Pearce's apartment and did drugs, Giles, pictured),and Arzola were dropped off at different hospitals by a car with no license plates. A toxicology report found the common date-rape drug, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), in Giles' system Giles would be pronounced shortly after, while Arzola (pictured with Pearce) spent 15 days in a coma 'Not only did I walk the dog but I picked up the dog poop that was in the kitchen.' Pearce claimed he wasn't into 'buying drugs and doing drugs. I come from a good family. My parents raised me well.' He was arrested in the December following the deaths and officially charged with two counts of murder and two counts in the sale, transport and furnish of a controlled substance. Osborn, 43, was charged with two counts of accessory after the fact. In addition to the murder charges, the former film producer had been previously charged with several counts of sexual assault against a total of seven victims spanning a 13-year period. Pearce pleaded not guilty to the recent charges and remains behind bars, while Osborn, was released on $40,000 bond. Detective Vander Lee testified that $30,250 in cash was found in a bag in Pearce's Prius along with his passport. He said the haul also included 'trophies' belonging to Pearce from 'Granite Cock Films,' a porn company, and a face mask similar to one prosecutors say was worn by Pearce when he dumped the bodies. Judge Eleanor Hunter scolded Pearce in a raised voice at the end of the morning's session for secretly removing some of his attorney's case papers. Defense attorney Jeff Voll, sitting next to Pearce, told the court that a number of papers had mysteriously gone missing during the previous days proceedings and then surreptitiously returned on Friday morning. 'You cannot take papers from your attorney,' Judge Hunter. 'I don't know how to get through to you. You are not allowed to take papers. 'There are things you're not entitled to. You cannot take anything from your attorney's stack. Are are going to have any more problems with you? 'How about getting the jury list and threatening to use it? Pearce responded, 'No, your Honor.' The judge was referring to phone call Pearce made from jail when he told his mother that he had information on the jurors, regarding their identities and where they worked. Prosecutors alleged he was trying to engineer a mistrial. Earlier in Friday's hearing, the court was shown security camera footage of Pearce carrying the limp bodies of Chrissy and Marcela Cabrales-Arzola out of the back door of his apartment building in the evening on November 14, 2021. While both Giles (left) and Cabrales (right) were found with heroin in their systems, their family and friends insist the women never would have willingly taken the drug Christy Giles, left, had recently married South African-born Jan Cilliers, 17 years her senior. The couple had eloped but planned to have a wedding back in Giles' native Alabama The back of the home where Giles and Arzola are reported to have spent their final hours David Brian Pearce, 43, is now on trial for the women's murders. He is pictured in 2021 Pearce told his police interviewer that after dumping Giles he returned home and saw Cabrales-Arzola was 'progressively getting worse.' 'She was breathing and making noise so she wasn't dead.' One hour later he drove Cabrales-Arzolawas to the another Los Angeles hospital. 'Hilda was alive at the hospital,' said Pearce. In was at that point the detective told him of the Mexican native, 'She was dead but they brought her back to life.' Giles' body was left on the sidewalk outside Southern California Hospital in Culver City and Cabrales-Arzola was found outside Kaiser Permanente hospital in West LA. Giles was declared dead at the scene, and Cabrales-Arzola later died in the ICU. On the night of the murders, the two women had visited an art exhibit at Soho House in West Hollywood. They later went to see one of their favorite DJs perform at a warehouse party in East Los Angeles where they met Pearce. Giles had recently married South African-born Jan Cilliers, 17 years her senior. The couple had eloped but planned to have a wedding back in Giles' native Alabama. Photographer Michael Ansbach, 50, who was at the apartment with Pearce and Osborn, alleges Pearce gave him and the two women alcoholic drinks and cocaine laced with fentanyl, according to prosecutor Catherine Ann Mariano. Even though the women had consumed alcohol and drugs before getting there, Mariano alleged, the drugs Pearce gave them at the apartment are what 'ultimately killed them.' After his arrest, Peace was heard on a hidden recorder in a police holding cell with his two friends bemoaning his situation. 'I should have left town last week - shoulda, coulda, woulda. I'm so terribly sorry that we're all here.' Photographer Michael Ansbach, 50, left, who was at the apartment with Pearce alleges how he gave him and the two women alcoholic drinks and cocaine laced with fentanyl. Brandt Osborn, 43, right, was charged with two counts of accessory after the fact.He has been released on $40,000 bond Cilliers, 44, told Daily Mail of Giles after Friday's hearing, 'She was a beautiful soul - she made friends with everyone.' He added that the evidence against Pearce and Osborn was 'very incriminating.' Pearce is also facing seven rape charges for sexual assaults he allegedly performed between 2005 and 2021. In 2014, prosecutors originally declined to pursue sexual assault charges against him, but after the deaths, several women came forward with stories. Some of the women alleged they fell ill after Pearce served them a drink and later woke up to him sexually assaulting them. Two more women have been hospitalised in Sydney in a suspected botulism outbreak caused by dodgy botox injections. It comes after another woman was rushed to intensive care on Friday. The three women received anti-wrinkle injections at an at-home clinic in Guildford, western Sydney, on January 11, NSW Police said. Police are now treating the three suspected botulism cases as an outbreak. Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal illness that occurs when the body is exposed to the botulinum toxin. Symptoms of the illness can include progressive weakness, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, and difficulty breathing. NSW Health issued a public alert after the first woman was taken to Auburn Hospital before being transferred to Westmead Hospital on Friday. The 51-year-old woman's condition had stablised by Saturday morning. Three women in Sydney have been admitted to i following dodgy botox injections in early January (stock pictured) The first woman, 51, was rushed to Auburn hospital after developing botulism in the weeks following her NSW Health is currently working with the Health Care Complaints Commission and NSW Police who are investigating the unregulated product linked to all three cases. 'Investigations into the specific anti-wrinkle product that was used are underway and NSW Health is working with the Health Care Complaints Commission and NSW Police on this matter,' a department spokesperson said. 'Cosmetic injections, if used incorrectly, could result in serious harm and even death in the most serious of cases.' NSW Health's Executive Director of Health Protection, Dr Jeremy McAnulty, said the case was a reminder of the potential side effects of unregulated cosmetic injections. 'Botulism, although rare, can be fatal, which is why it is so important that anyone receiving cosmetic injections does so under the supervision of an appropriately registered health practitioner,' he said. Symptoms of botulism can appear for up to two weeks following cosmetic injections. Authorities advised anyone experiencing similar symptoms to seek immediate medical attention at their nearest emergency department or call triple zero. The authorities have urged any other affected patients to come forward. President Trump aggressively forged ahead with his pledge to carry out the largest mass deportation effort in US history in his first week back in power, arresting over 2,000 people in a widespread crackdown. A senior official in the Trump administration revealed exclusive deportation and arrest numbers to DailyMail.com to cap off a frantic first week back in power, including details of the worst criminals that had slipped through the net. On Friday alone, ICE authorities arrested 445 illegal migrants with criminal records, with a further 148 migrants without rap sheets also taken into custody ready for deportation. There were a further 449 detainers lodged - requests to local police forces to hold arrested individuals until ICE can pick them up - 468 removals or repatriations, and 15 gang-related arrests across the nation. Almost 5,000 Homeland Security and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers have been deployed by the Trump administration to carry out raids, particularly targeting sanctuary cities where dangerous criminals were previously unable to be tracked by ICE under weak Biden-era immigration policies. Among the worst of the worst to be picked up by ICE on Friday included Cesar Augusto Polanco, 59, a Dominican Republican national who was living free in Boston despite a criminal conviction for second-degree murder. In San Antonio, Texas, Venezuelan national Nestor Jose Mendoza-Garcia was picked up after being identified as an active member of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang, and was found with a handgun related to an unsolved murder from November 2024. Like many others in the unmasked deportation list, Mendoza-Garcia was initially arrested during the Biden administration in October 2023, but was merely handed a notice to appear and released into society - and lived free for over a year until he was taken into custody this week. Among the worst of the worst to be picked up by ICE on Friday included Cesar Augusto Polanco, 59, a Dominican Republican national who was living free in Boston despite a criminal conviction for second-degree murder Juan Misael Canales-Garcia, was one of several El Salvador citizens arrested, as he was found with previous convictions of robbery and kidnapping The staggering numbers come as Trump aggressively forged ahead with his pledge to carry out the largest mass deportation effort in US history in his first week back in power In New York, where buses and flights of migrants under Biden's administration topped over 10,000 people at their peak, a number of raids led to arrests of known gang members and criminals. Jose Tito Reyes, 54, a citizen of El Salvador, was picked up on Friday by ICE and was found to have a previous conviction for forcible touching, receiving a sentence of 90 days imprisonment and 3 years' probation, the White House official revealed to DailyMail.com on Friday. ICE in New Orleans snared Juan Miseal Canales-Garcia, another El Salvador citizen who had a previous conviction of robbery and kidnapping. Mexican national Edgar Rivas-Rodriguez was also detained in Chicago, as he was walking the streets despite past convictions for possession of methamphetamine and leaving the scene of an accident-causing injury. Just like Mendoza-Garcia, a wave of suspected members of Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang have been arrested this week - with the gang known to have gained a foothold in the United States in recent years. This terrifying development made headlines last year as Tren de Aragua gangsters took over an apartment complex in Aurora, Colorado. Suspected gang member Elmer Aparicio-Castillo was taken into custody in Nashville alongside another unnamed Tren de Aragua loyalist, 36, with both men holding rap sheets including evading arrest, prostitution, and drug possession. And in Buffalo, New York, known sex trafficker Julio Cesar Diaz Martinez was arrested by ICE, where authorities said they rescued a female Dominican national who he was actively victimizing at the time of his detainment. Over 2,000 illegal migrants have been arrested in total in Trump's first week back in the White House Authorities detained several known Tren de Aragua gang members, including Edgar Rivas-Rodriguez, who was walking the streets of Chicago despite past convictions for possession of methamphetamine and leaving the scene of an accident-causing injury And in Buffalo, New York, known sex trafficker Julio Cesar Diaz Martinez was arrested by ICE, where authorities said they rescued a female Dominican national who he was actively victimizing at the time of his detainment In San Antonio, Texas, Venezuelan national Nestor Jose Mendoza-Garcia was picked up after being identified as an active member of the Tren de Aragua gang, and was found with a handgun related to an unsolved murder from November 2024 It comes as an additional 1,500 active-duty troops arrived Thursday at the southern border A Haiti gang leader with 17 past convictions was seen erupting into a wild rant as he was hauled into a cop car on Wednesday The terrifying slate of arrested illegal immigrants are just some of the known murderers, rapists and pedophiles who were taken into custody in Trump's first week back - also including a Haiti gang leader with 17 past convictions who was seen erupting into a wild rant as he was hauled into a cop car on Wednesday. It comes as Mexican authorities blocked a US military plane from deporting illegal migrants on Thursday. US officials told NBC News that a jet filled with illegal immigrants bound for Mexico never took off after authorities south of the border rejected the move. The flight was one of three that were set to take off on Thursday, alongside two Guatemala-bound Air Force C-17s carrying over 150 people, as part of what Trump has described as the largest mass deportation effort in US history. Trump's hardline Border Czar Tom Homan said on Thursday that of the 1,300 migrants that had been arrested at the time, 'over 1,000 of them were criminals.' He slammed sanctuary city policies for having allowed migrants with long rap sheets remain in US cities as they declined to alert ICE of their whereabouts during the Biden-era. 'I don't care if Republican or Democrat, Independent, why not let law enforcement go into a county jail, taxpayer county jail, to arrest the guy that you locked in a jail cell so obviously, the public safety threat that will solve a lot of this problem,' he said. 'And I hope the sanctuary cities come around.' The White House released this image of one of the planes reportedly taking illegal migrants to Guatemala on Thursday President Trump's hardline Border Czar Tom Homan warned that local governments that seek to shield illegal migrants from deportation forces could now face criminal prosecution Thursday morning also marked the start of Trump's move to deploy the US military to the southern border, with 1,500 active-duty troops arriving early in the day. The Pentagon confirmed the 1,000 Army soldiers and 500 Marines deployed south include those from Military Police units as well as combat engineers and intelligence specialists to aid in detection and monitoring of illegal border jumpers. The additional active forces, which adds to the roughly 2,500 already currently stationed along the border, will also aid in constructing barriers along the border and providing the air power for deportations. Over 5,400 migrants who are currently in detention in the US will be flown out of the country by the military forces, as a show of force for Trump's early days back in the White House. As part of the effort, four C-17 and C-130 military aircraft were moved to El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California this week, an official told Task & Purpose. One of those C-17's was the jet rejected by Mexican authorities on Thursday. Trump is planning to send a total of 10,000 active-duty military to the border. He then kept his back to governor of Victoria and took selfies Newman headed for exit during an Acknowledgement of Country EXCLUSIVE Sam Newman has been accused of an astonishing act of disrespect during an 'Acknowledgement of Country' in Victoria. The former Footy Show host and AFL great was among the guests at an Australia Day function at the state's Government House on Wednesday. According to another guest at the event, when governor of Victoria Margaret Gardner began an Acknowledgment of Country, Newman could be seen turning his back and heading for the exit. By the time he reached the door, however, Ms Gardner had finished the address, and he made his way back to his place in the venue. For the rest of Ms Gardner's speech, Newman had his back to the stage, and appeared to be taking photos of his companion Sue Stanley. Of the hundreds in attendance Newman was the only one in the room not watching the Governor address the crowd, the guest said. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Newman for comment. Newman has courted controversy as a media figure in the past and made headlines for his comments on Indigenous culture. When Margaret Gardner began an Acknowledgment of Country, Newman could be seen turning his back and heading for the exit, but he returned when the address was finished For the rest of Ms Gardner's speech, Newman had his back to the stage, and appeared to be taking photos of companion Sue Stanley In September 2024 he urged Australians to boo the 'welcome to country' ceremony at the AFL grand final. The former footy great also recently slammed a dedicated Telstra call centre phoneline for Indigenous people. The Darwin-based call centre hotline came under scathing attack from the AFL veteran during an episode of Newman's podcast, You Cannot Be Serious, in January. Newman's co-host shared a story about a non-Indigenous woman from Kununurra in Western Australia who was able to skip the line after she lied about her heritage. 'Why doesn't everyone do it?' said Newman in response. 'Indigenous people - why do they get through while the rest of us wait in line? 'This will get to - you'll go to a film, and there'll be a queue for Caucasian people. And over here, there'll be a queue for anyone whose skin color is not white.' Telstra denied the call centre allowed Indigenous callers to skip the queue faced by the rest of the community. 'Telstras First Nations Connect Hotline is supported by a small dedicated team to service our most remote customers,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia. Newman was the only guest of the hundreds in attendance to not pay attention during the governor's remarks, one witness said 'It also provides culturally appropriate customer service to our First Nations customers.' In 2018 Newman told News Corp he was considering running for Lord Mayor of Melbourne on a platform of getting rid of homelessness in the CBD, cleaning up graffiti and ignoring minority group agendas. The Lord Mayor role was empty at the time after then-Mayor Robert Doyle resigned while fighting allegations of sexual harassment. Mr Newman, who said he toyed with the idea of running in the 2016 council election, told the Herald Sun the role of mayor would allow him to fight the politically correct agendas of minority groups. 'We get bogged down with delusional psychotic anarchists who push all sorts of agendas because they have a point to plead and usually the general interest of the community is thrown under the bus,' he said. 'I'm sure that the majority of people are worried about the homeless in the CBD, the graffiti, [and councils] using motorists as a tool to balance the budget.' Four Israeli soldiers have been released by Hamas after 15 nightmare months in Gaza. Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, who are all 20, and Liri Albag, 19, were seen on Saturday stepping out of a Palestinian vehicle and were handed over to a team from the International Committee of the Red Cross after being paraded in front of a crowd in Gaza City. Dozens of masked and armed Hamas and fellow Islamic Jihad militants gathered at a square, where a podium was set up. A banner hanging off the stage read in Hebrew 'Zionism will not prevail.' The women were brought onto a stage after exiting the vehicle, as they beamed with joy and relief and waved to the crowds. Meanwhile in Israel, thousands erupted with joy in a square in Tel Aviv, where family and friends of the hostages gathered to watch a livestream of their release. Several Tel Aviv citizens could be seen crying, smiling and hugging each other as they held up placards showing the names and faces of the hostages. The four women were then transported to the border of Gaza, where a helicopter waited for them. (Left to Right) Israeli hostages Naama Levy, Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev stand on a stage before being delivered to the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross Four Israeli hostages stand on a stage before Hamas fighters hand them over to a team from the Red Cross in Gaza City on January 25, 2025 Dozens of masked and armed Hamas and fellow Islamic Jihad militants gathered at a square in Gaza City on Saturday, where a podium was set up, as a crowd of Palestinians gathered round ahead of their release Around an hour after being handed over to the Red Cross, the Israeli Defence Force confirmed that the four hostages had arrived back in Israel. 'The four returning soldiers, Daniela Gilboa, Liri Elbag, Naama Levy and Karina Ariev, have now crossed the border into Israeli territory with IDF and Shin Bet forces,' the IDF wrote on X. 'The returnees, accompanied by IDF and Shin Bet forces, recently crossed the border into the territory of the State of Israel and are now on their way to the initial absorption point in the Gaza Strip, where they will meet with their parents.' IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari also said in a televised speech that Israel 'cannot and will not forget' the 90 hostages who remain in Gaza. The hostages were then taken to designated locations in Re'im, Israel, before being transported by vehicle or helicopter to hospital, where they will receive medical checks. It was confirmed that they had been reunited with their parents. The IDF also shared an emotional clip of the families of the hostages laughing, crying and clapping as they watched the four women being released. Their release comes under the latest phase of a fragile ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the 15-month-old war in Gaza. The Hamas prisoners media office said it expected 200 prisoners to be freed on Saturday as part of the exchange, including 120 serving life sentences and 80 prisoners with other lengthy sentences. Hamas fighters escort four Israeli hostages on a stage before handing them over to a team from the Red Cross in Gaza City The four women were later transported to the border of Gaza, where a helicopter waited for them Two of the released hostages are seen being handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas militants Israel is set to release 200 Palestinian prisoners in return Relatives and friends of Israeli hostages held by Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip react as they watch the release of four women soldiers, at hostage square in Tel Aviv on January 25 Hamas militants on January 25 handed over to the Red Cross four Israeli women hostages under a truce deal in the Gaza war that is also expected to see a second group of Palestinian prisoners freed People comfort each other and hold up photos ahead of the release of four Israeli hostages Crowds gather at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday to watch the livestream of the hostages being released A woman holds an Israeli flag as people gather to watch a live stream on a big screen reporting on the release of four Israeli female soldier hostages Israel and Hamas implemented the first phase of a hostage release and ceasefire deal on 19 January 2025 The father of Naama Levy and parents of Daniella Gilboa react as their daughters, Israeli soldiers who have been held hostage after being seized from their army base in southern Israel during the deadly October 7, 2023 Hamas said today that 70 of the 200 Palestinian prisoners set to be freed would be deported outside of Gaza and the West Bank. Their identities have not yet been published but they are likely to include members of militant groups convicted for deadly attacks that killed dozens of people. The four women released today were soldiers stationed at an observation post on the edge of Gaza when they were abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Today's exchange is the second since the ceasefire began on Sunday last week and Hamas handed over three Israeli civilians in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas announced yesterday that the four female soldiers would be released, but cruelly, soldier Agam Berger, 20, was not included in the list, splitting up the families who have campaigned relentlessly together to bring them all home. Video of the abduction of the five female soldiers aired in May, showing the conscripts, pyjama-clad and stunned and some bloodied, being bound and bundled into a jeep. The footage was recovered from bodycams worn by gunmen who attacked the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel where the women served as surveillance spotters. The mothers of the five women held in Gaza tirelessly campaigned for the release of their daughters, and ultimately made the agonising decision to release the horrifying three-minute Hamas Go Pro video in a desperate bid to get politicians to fight for them. An Israeli military helicopter lands at a base near Reim in preparation for the release of four hostages Members from the Al-Qassam Brigades and Al-Quds Brigades are deployed at Palestine Square in Gaza City, Gaza on January 25, 2025, as preparations for further exchanges of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners under the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement continue A member of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) signs a document as Hamas militants prepare to hand over four female Israeli soldiers The International Committee of the Red Cross received a call from Hamas on Saturday to head to the designated transfer point in Gaza Members of International Committee of the Red Cross arrive at European Hospital ahead of the handover of Palestinian prisoners in Khan Yunis, Gaza on January 25, 2025, as preparations for further exchanges of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners under the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement continue The horrific clip showed the young women limping, injured and bloodied as their hands are bound. They are lined against the wall by Palestinian terrorists having been taken from Nahal Oz base during their mandatory National Service as unarmed observers. 'You dogs, we will step on you.' One screams at the girls. Another of the terrorists is seen pointing at the girls calling them 'Sabaya', an ancient islamic term that can mean female sex slave, before leering over Karina in her snoopy pyjamas, saying: 'You are so beautiful.' Earlier this month Hamas also released a sickening hostage video of the youngest of the hostages released, Liri Albag, who was seen shaking and crying as she begged her government to save her. A video of Levy being bundled into a jeep in Gaza circulated on social media within hours of her abduction. It showed Levy bruised and cut, the seat of her trousers stained with blood, with her hands tied behind her back, pushed into the vehicle by a gunman while bystanders chant 'God is greatest!' in Arabic. She had just begun her military service when the attack took place and as she was pushed into the jeep, she pleaded: 'I have friends in Palestine,' footage released of her capture showed. Gilboa was wounded during the attack on October 7 and was shown limping in the video showing the soldiers' capture. She was seen last year in a video released by Hamas, which showed her appealing angrily to the government to work for her release and saying she felt abandoned. Just before being taken, Ariev managed to speak briefly with her parents and sent her family a farewell message, Israeli media reported. A subsequent photo of her in captivity released by Hamas showed her with a bandaged head with what appeared to be blood stains. The list released by Hamas of the hostages it was set to release was also notable for the absence of the female civilians, Arbel Yehud, 29, and Shiri Bibas, 30, as well as her sons Kfir, two, and Ariel, five, who should have been released before female soldiers. The Israel Defence Forces and representatives of the families called on commentators not to speculate on their status as Israeli officials accused Hamas of violating the terms of the deal. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded to know why no civilians are set for release. Officials warned the continuation of the deal may be delayed. Israeli hostage, Liri Albag, a soldier who was seized from her army base in southern Israel during the deadly October 7, 2023 Daniela Gilboa is among the four female Israeli soldiers to be freed on Saturday Karina Ariev is among the four female Israeli soldiers who were held hostage for 15 months Naama Levy is one of the hostages currently being held in Gaza and set to be freed on Saturday But Hamas later confirmed today that Yehud is alivd and will be freed next Saturday. Agam Berger's cousin Ashley Waxman Bakshi, 38, told the Mail the terror group is using the hostage release to continue its 'psychological warfare' against Israelis. 'It is so cruel and evil that the five girls are being split,' she said hours before the announcement that her relative would not be freed today. 'It's just awful because we've done everything together for the past 15 and a half months. 'It really is the highest level of evil and psychological warfare they're doing to the families by ripping us apart like that.' She was speaking at a ceremony where Agam's mother Meirav, 48, prayed for her daughter's safe return in Tel Aviv on Thursday. Mrs Berger, supported by her husband, Shlomi, 52, said in a prayer: 'The return of our beloved daughters is approaching, God willing. We are counting the minutes and waiting with bated breath for everyone's return.' Mrs Berger finished the prayer by adding: 'This land will not rest until all our hostages are home. This is my promise.' The first phase agreement that will see 33 hostages freed in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners states that Hamas must let Israel know who it is freeing 24 hours in advance. But on the first week they were 18 hours late and have still not stated how many of those due to be released imminently are alive. It means Israelis face a torturous wait each week to discover who is living and who will be freed. Ms Waxman Bakshi compared it to some of the darkest days of Jewish history. 'It's just an awful feeling that we've gone back to the days of the Holocaust, where we have lists determining who's going to have what fate.' Hamas should let Israel know today how many of the 30 hostages remaining in the first phase are alive. But it is feared they won't name them, only state the number of the living out of each category women, elderly, and sick to prolong the families' suffering. It is hoped Agam will be freed next Saturday. She was doing national service as an unarmed observer at Nahal Oz base when she was taken captive along with Daniella, Naama, Karina, and Liri. A drug cartel ringleader has been arrested in the UK - after his wife shared luxury holiday snaps online in plain sight of detectives. Luis Manuel Picado Grijalbo was grabbed by National Crime Agency officers near London Bridge on December 29 on an international warrant, wanted by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on charges of exporting cocaine from Costa Rica. The country has been rocked by widespread violence between warring cartels - but rarely allows the extradition of criminals. Detectives had to wait for the 43-year-old to travel overseas. In a twist of good fortune, his glamorous wife Estefania McDonald Rodriguez, 32, was sending photos of her travels to her 21,000 followers on Instagram. Little did she realise that US agents were following every post, waiting for the moment a warrant was issued so they could pounce. The Instagram account has since been deleted. On Facebook, she posted images of herself at Rome's Trevi Fountains, captioning the snaps: 'A trip is lived 3 times: When we dream it, When we live it, When we remember it.' But a trip to London taken at the end of December to ring in the New Year is one she would likely rather forget. Estefania McDonald Rodriguez and her husband Luis Manuel Picado Grijalbo - in a photo from Paris that helped snare Grijalbo on alleged drug charges Rodriguez, 32, had plastered glamorous photos of her various holidays across social media - leaving a trail for authorities to follow Grijalba, nicknamed 'Shock', was wanted in the US on suspicion of trafficking cocaine internationally Grijalba, nicknamed 'Shock', normally travelled separately from his wife - but the pair were in the capital on a 16,000 trip that took him from Costa Rica's Juan Santamaria Airport to Paris and onwards to London. DEA agents were watching their every move online thanks to Ms Rodriguez's posts - and with an arrest warrant issued, they asked NCA officers to assist. He was cuffed at an airport, according to Costa Rican authorities. Randall Zuniga, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency of Costa Rica (OIJ) - the country's FBI - confirmed the arrest on his X account. 'Nicaraguan naturalized Costa Rican Luis Manuel Picado Grijalba, alias "Shock", was arrested at London airport in a joint effort with the DEA,' he wrote. 'His extradition to the US is sought to face charges of international drug trafficking originating from Limon.' Nicaraguan native Grijalba, who also holds Costa Rican nationality, had also failed to appear in court over a mass fatality shootout at his property in Matama, Limon province in March 2022. Grijalba was one of the targets of the attack perpetrated on his property where 7 people died, among them Danny Hernandez Fernandez, known as the 'Raton'. He threw himself behind a cherry tree behind a cabin on his land to escape a hail of bullets, according to Central American media. Prosecutors sent him three citations - but were unable to enforce them and ultimately ruled him out as a witness. US DEA agents also couldn't strike within Costa Rica because of its constitutionally protected extradition rules - but had been on his trail for several years. Ms Rodriguez regularly posted glamorous shots of herself online - in plain sight of officers investigating her husband Ms Rodriguez's glamorous snaps took in sights from all over the world - watched by agents waiting to pounce on her husband Ms Rodriguez's Instagram-friendly photos told of travels across the world - from Japan to Europe Randall Zuniga, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency of Costa Rica (OIJ) - the country's FBI - confirmed the arrest on X, stating that Grijalba had been cuffed at an airport Ms Rodriguez is believed to live in Limon province - an area where Grijalba is alleged to have operated a drug trafficking empire The Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project says the country's constitution protects its citizens from prosecution for crimes committed outside of Costa Rican territory so long as they return home safely. Costa Rican Attorney General Carlo Diaz told The Sun, which first reported the story: 'This is an important capture for us, because we had not yet been able to attribute any criminal act to him in our country. 'But I reiterate, he has been linked in some investigations to drug trafficking in Limon. 'The DEA is not only satisfied with this person serving a criminal sentence, but they also seek to take away all his assets and we are going to collaborate with them.' Limon province, where Grijalba was operating, has seen a huge surge in gang-related violence in recent years. Its main city of Limon boasts a port thought to be a drug trafficking hotspot. In 2023, 214 homicides were recorded in the city - more than in the capital San Jose despite being a third of the size, according to investigative platform Insight Crime. The drug lord himself has reportedly survived two assassination attempts. An NCA spokesman said: 'Luis Picado Grijalba, 43, was arrested in the London Bridge area on December 29 and remanded into custody. 'Extradition proceedings are ongoing.' The kingpin is expected to return to court next month to contest extradition proceedings. A former British Museum contract worker has been arrested after allegedly shutting down its IT systems, the London-based institution said. Part of the museum's permanent collection was closed on Friday, while temporary exhibitions will remain closed over the weekend following the alleged attack. The museum said the former member of staff, who had recently been dismissed, had 'trespassed' at the venue and was arrested at the scene. A spokesman said on Saturday: 'An IT contractor who was dismissed last week trespassed into the museum and shut down several of our systems. Police attended and he was arrested at the scene. 'We are working hard to get the museum back to being fully operational but with regret our temporary exhibitions have been closed today and will remain so over the weekend - ticket holders have been alerted and refunds offered.' The incident comes after about 1,500 objects were disclosed as missing or stolen from the museum's collection in August 2023. Last year, legal proceedings were launched against the former curator, Dr Peter Higgs, who was dismissed in July 2023 after a more than 30-year career in the department of Greece and Rome. A former British Museum contract worker has been arrested after allegedly shutting down its IT systems The bronze depiction of Buddha in the Silk Roads exhibition at the British Museum is currently closed due to the hacking A look at the statement that was issued by the British Museum following the hacking Hundreds of treasures have since been returned, including from collectors around the world. Last year, the body had a temporary exhibition where it showcased recovered artefacts including ancient gems. Following the furore, the director of the museum, Hartwig Fischer, resigned and, after a temporary head was appointed, Nicholas Cullinan, who was previously in charge of the National Portrait Gallery, took on the role. The Silk Roads exhibition at the British Museum is also currently closed due to the hacking. The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment. A disabled pensioner left with a broken collar bone after a vicious mugging by a drug dealer outside his home has told how the attack 10 years ago 'changed my life'. Alan Barnes, 77, from Low Fell in Gateshead, stands just 4ft6in tall and has complex disabilities as a result of his mother contracting German measles while pregnant with him. Despite his difficulties, which include being registered as blind, Mr Barnes was able to live an independent life until it was shattered by thug Richard Gatiss 10 years ago today. Mr Barnes had been moving his bins when Gatiss pushed him to the ground and began rifling through his pockets for cash. He eventually left empty-handed after Mr Barnes called for help from neighbours. Gatiss was ultimately sentenced to four years in prison for the attack. After the attack, local beautician Katie Cutler - then aged 21 - launched a fundraising campaign to help Mr Barnes which raised a total of 330,000. The pensioner, who is no longer in contact with Ms Cutler, used the money to buy his own home for the first time, as well as to fund several house moves since. Today, Mr Barnes told the Mirror how he is still recognised by people today, having captured the hearts of the nation in the aftermath of the horror incident. Alan Barnes, 77, from Low Fell in Gateshead, was mugged outside his home and left with a broken collarbone ten years ago (Mr Barnes is pictured in 2017) Alan pictured with Katie Cutler, the beautician who spearheaded a campaign to help him that raised 330,000 Alan Barnes, 77, has now moved into a home in Gateshead after a series of house sales He said the attack changed his life forever, but said it was 'nothing' compared to other abuse he faces. He added: 'It did change my life. I got to know a lot of new people. I'm very thankful for what I got so I'm putting back in what I can.' In the aftermath Mr Barnes and Ms Cutler appeared on various television shows and vowed to be 'friends for life', with Ms Cutler being branded the 'Angel of the North'. Ms Cutler was awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen's 2015 Birthday Honours. Mr Barnes still lives in Low Fell, having initially purchased a smart two-bed terrace for 150,000. However, Alan was unable to settle into his new house, and moved several times since, including into a plush newbuild overlooking the beautiful Saltwell Park which he bought for 250,000 in 2017. 2015: After the mugging, Mr Barnes bought a semi-detached two-bedroom property, which cost 115,000, but put it up for sale just two months later He sold that house for 205,000 in July 2020, making a loss of 45,000, and is now living in a smaller home close by, having never left the Low Fell area. Meanwhile Ms Cutler was left with a bill of almost 7,000 by a PR firm which she asked to help with fundraising and to set up a charity to continue helping people. Unfortunately the charity did not make it off the ground and Ms Cutler was left in debt and threatened with court action. In 2016 she lost to PR consultant Claire Barber and was ordered to repay her 6,200. Ms Cutler at the time vowed never to do any charity work again. Former President Joe Biden issued a staggering number of presidential pardons during his time in the White House. In total, the 82-year-old issued 8,064 pardons during his tenure, with 6,500 of those coming by way of a sweeping pardon for those convicted of marijuana possession. Outside of recently deceased former president Jimmy Carter, who pardoned over 200,000 individuals for draft dodging - Biden has issued the most. By contrast, his successor President Donald Trump issued only 237 in his first term. The only previous incumbent that has come close, barring Carter's mass pardon, was President Andrew Johnson who granted 7,654 - putting him amongst the highest. President Obama issued 1,927 in his time, the highest number for any two-term president since Franklin D. Roosevelt who pardoned 3,687 people. Other figures include Lyndon B. Johnson with 1,187, Dwight D. Eisenhower with 1,157 and Herbert Hoover with 1,198. Just minutes before President Trump was formally sworn in as the new commander-in-chief on Monday, Biden also saw fit to pardon members of his family. In total, the 82-year-old issued 8,064 pardons during his tenure, with 6,500 of those coming by way of a sweeping pardon for those convicted of marijuana possession Your browser does not support iframes. He issued pre-emptive pardons to James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden. His brother James Biden had been pulled into House Republicans' impeachment investigation of Joe Biden, which ultimately went nowhere. Biden also pardoned James' wife, Sara; his sister, Valerie; her husband, John; and his younger brother, Francis Biden. The pardons were sweeping, covering all of their 'nonviolent' actions dating back to 2014. Biden said his family was subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats, motivated solely by a desire to hurt me the worst kind of partisan politics.' In December, Biden pardoned his son Hunter after vowing not to. Hunter was facing sentencing in two criminal cases late last year. The only family members missing from Monday's list was wife Jill and daughter Ashley. Biden also issued pre-emptive pardons for General Mike Milley, Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Rep. Liz Cheney and other lawmakers who investigated the January 6 riot. In December, Biden pardoned his son Hunter after vowing not to. Hunter was facing sentencing in two criminal cases last year US President Donald Trump signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the WHite House in Washington, DC, on January 20 Biden wasn't the first to pardon family members, with President Bill Clinton absolving his brother Roger for drug charges after having served a sentence. In the final weeks of his first term, Trump also pardoned Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared. In December of last year Biden also commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 people in what was the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history. A commutation reduces a sentence that is being served, but does not erase a conviction nor imply innocence, according to the Department of Justice. One of those who had their sentence commuted was Marvin Gabrion, who had been awaiting his execution for the 1997 rape and murder of Rachel Timmerman. Timmerman's father Tim lashed out at the ex-president over the decision at the time, describing it as 'despicable'. After his last minute pardon of family members, David Axelrod, the mastermind behind Obama's rise to power slammed them as 'egregious'. Speaking on the Hacks on Tap podcast, Axelrod had special contempt for the pardons being announced just minutes before Trump took office. 'I mean, man up! You know what I mean? Man up, and if youre gonna do it, do it, but dont do it literally as you have one foot out the door so you dont have to explain it or be accountable for it, he said. One of those who had their sentence commuted by Biden was Marvin Gabrion, seen here, who had been awaiting his execution for the 1997 rape and murder of Rachel Timmerman As Trump assumed office earlier this week, he was quick to issue pardons for the January 6 rioters The CNN commentator then explained what about the pardons made them backfire on his former boss. 'And what they did was they gave Trump a gift because it fuzzied up the story, the J6 story for him, and you heard him last night,' he said. Axelrod then asked: 'Could you end a presidency as badly as he has? I mean, Trump did.' President Trump had shown some restraint in his first term, issuing pardons for 237 people. As he assumed office earlier this week though, he was quick to issue pardons for the January 6 rioters, Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht and pro-life protestors. Trump pardoned about 1,500 defendants relating to the assault of the capitol and issued six commutations. His total pardons now totals over 1,700. The pardons fulfill Trump's promise to release supporters who tried to help him overturn his election defeat four years ago. Feathers McGraw's dramatic return as Wallace and Gromit's silent nemesis has become an unlikely hit at tattoo parlours in the UK. McGraw, an evil penguin comically disguised as a chicken thanks to the red rubber glove he wears on his head, is the chief antagonist in Aardman's Oscar-nominated Vengeance Most Fowl, which aired on Christmas Day last month. Since the movie's release, McGraw has become a viral sensation, with images of him appearing widely online and, according to tattoo artists, on many fans' skin. 'In this last week just gone I did six Feathers,' Faith Garvie, a tattoo artist at Black Moon Tattoo Studio in Liverpool, said. 'I've been brought to tears a couple of times because people have been so positively impacted by the tattoos.' This month, social media platforms have been awash with people posting pictures of their freshly inked McGraw tattoos, from Worcestershire to Lancashire and Cornwall. They show the penguin in various scenarios, including holding a wooden spoon and riding a train. Asked why she thinks the character has captured the imagination, Ms Garvie, 33, said: 'I guess it's just the magic of claymation, as he's so emotive, but he doesn't speak at all.' Villainous penguin Feathers McGraw has become an unlikely hit at UK tattoo parlours Since the movie's release, McGraw has become a viral sensation, with images of him now appearing on many fans' skin University student Gia O'Donohoe, 20, got a Feathers McGraw tattoo in early January She said her tattoos take between one and three hours to create, mainly inked on to people's arms and legs, and most clients are women between the ages of 18 and 30 - but some have bucked this trend. 'I'm super lucky with my clients, we have the most wonderful conversations about why they're getting the tattoos,' she said. 'A lot of it will be they grew up with the characters or their family grew up with them. One guy came in and got his first tattoo, it was of the Feathers wanted poster. 'He was the dad of two teenagers and said he had really wanted the tattoo since lockdown, so that was really lovely.' Among those being tattooed is university student Gia O'Donohoe, 20. 'I remember seeing the film when it came out on Christmas Day on the BBC and it was at that moment that I thought, that's just so funny and I was going to get a Feathers tattoo,' the student, who studies international relations and politics at Liverpool John Moores University, said. 'When I saw the scene with him and the seal, it was a lightbulb moment and I knew it was going to be that one.' Ms O'Donohoe had an image of McGraw with a seal pup on his lap, a tongue-in-cheek reference to James Bond villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld, tattooed on to her right arm by the Brass Tattoo Company in Liverpool. Posting it on X, formerly Twitter, the image received more than 9,000 likes and 200,000 views earlier this month, and was even reposted by Wallace and Gromit creators Aardman. McGraw is an evil penguin comically disguised as a chicken thanks to the red rubber glove he wears on his head Faith Garvie, a tattoo artist at Black Moon Tattoo Studio in Liverpool, said: 'In this last week just gone I did six Feathers' 'It was kind of crazy, I just decided to tag them and they were one of the first people who liked it, and then they reposted it and then it got 3,000 likes overnight,' she said. She said that while she loves McGraw, her favourite character is actually Gromit, and she has a tattoo of him sitting in an armchair knitting, on her left leg. 'He's a really cool character and even though he's docile, sometimes he can flick a switch and become the hero of the day,' she explained. Ms Garvie said there are two particular images of McGraw to which customers are drawn. 'One of them is from Wallace and Gromit: The Wrong Trousers - it's where Feathers gets stuck in a glass bottle,' she said. 'Everyone seems to adore that and some people get it with the glove on his head and others without. 'There's also a scene - again, where he's in The Wrong Trousers, where he's standing at the bottom of the stairs in Wallace and Gromit's house and he looks over at them, and people get that scene a lot as well.' After a month producing tattoos of her favourite Wallace and Gromit character, Ms Garvie said she intends to get one of her own soon - once business calms down. 'It's mainly just finding the time to be honest,' she said. A woman who was born at the gates of a concentration camp after her mother volunteered to follow her husband to Auschwitz has said she survived because of 'luck'. Eva Clarke, 79, was born at Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria on April 29 1945, one day after it ran out of gas for the gas chamber. Ms Clarke's father Bernd Nathan, who was German and Jewish, met her mother when he travelled to Prague to escape the Nazis. The couple married in May 1940 and were among the first people to be sent to Theresienstadt labour camp as they were 'young, strong and well able to work', Ms Clarke said. Speaking before Holocaust Memorial Day on Monday, she said the pair managed to survive in the camp for three years, a 'remarkably long' period of time. Despite men and women being separated at the camp, her parents managed to meet and her mother became pregnant with Ms Clarke's brother. The Nazis considered becoming pregnant in a concentration camp a crime punishable by death, Ms Clarke said, adding that they made her parents sign a document saying when the baby was born they would be handed over for 'euthanasia'. Queen Camilla (right) speaking to Holocaust survivor Eva Clarke during a reception hosted by the Anne Frank Trust to mark Holocaust Memorial Day at the London Hilton on Park Lane Undated handout photo issued by the Holocaust Educational Trust of Eva and her mother, Anka (Nathan) Bergman Eva's parents, Anka and Bernd Nathan Bergman 'My mother never heard the word euthanasia. She had to go and ask somebody what it meant,' Ms Clarke added. Her brother was born at the camp in February 1944 but died two months later of pneumonia. Of her and her mother's survival, Ms Clarke said: 'My mother always said luck had an awful lot to do with it, but at the end of September of 1944 their luck ran out, because it was on that day my father was sent to Auschwitz.' Her mother, Anka (Nathan) Bergman, volunteered to follow her husband the next day because she had 'no idea' where he had been sent, Ms Clarke added. 'Being the eternal optimist, she thought, well, as they had survived up to that point, she thought nothing could get any worse.' 'She never, ever saw him again, and she heard from an eyewitness that my father had been shot dead on a death march on the 18th of January 1945, near Auschwitz, and it was liberated on the 27th.' Of her brother, Ms Clarke said: 'His death meant my life and my mother's life, because had my mother arrived in the Auschwitz Birkenau death camp holding my brother in her arms, they would have both been sent straight to the gas chamber.' While pregnant with Eva, her mother was sent to Freiberg forced labour camp near Dresden where she worked on the V1 unmanned flying bomb. Pictured: Holocaust survivor Eva Clarke in an undated photograph Eva Clarke pictured with her mother on her mother's 90th birthday. Both women survived a Nazi concentration camp Holocaust survivor Eva Clarke pictured with her husband Malcolm Clarke on their wedding day Ms Clarke said: 'She was there for six months, becoming progressively more and more starved and more and more obviously pregnant, and that was very dangerous for her. 'By the time the Germans realised she was pregnant, it was too late for her to be sent back to Auschwitz, to be killed, because Auschwitz had been liberated - so it's another piece of luck.' When the Nazis began to evacuate the camps, her mother was put on a coal train around the end of March 1945 and travelled for days with no food and hardly any water before arriving at Mauthausen concentration camp. 'So when she saw the name Mauthausen at the station, she had such a shock because, as opposed to when she'd arrived in Auschwitz not knowing what that was, this time she knew and she started to give birth to me on that coal wagon,' Ms Clarke said. 'She had to climb off the coal wagon. I was born at the gates of Mauthausen. ' She continued: 'There are three reasons why we survived, and the first is, it's a very chilling reason, on the 28th of April 1945 the Germans had run out of gas for the gas chamber. 'My birthday is 29th. 'The second indirect reason why we survived is because Hitler committed suicide on the 30th, and the third and the best reason why we survived was because on the fifth of May, the American Army liberated the camp.' Pictured: Eva Clarke. Her mother gave birth to her outside the gates of a Nazi concentration camp She later settled with her family in Cardiff, where she met her husband Malcolm Clarke in the 1960s. She later found out that her father-in-law, Kenneth Clarke, had been a RAF bomber flying in the Dresden raids at the time. This meant that among the civilians cowering below him in the strikes was the mother to his future grandchildren. 'Kenneth was absolutely devastated to realise he could have killed my mother and my mother was in tears when they realised the incredible coincidence', Ms Clarke once said in an interview. 'When he said 'I could have killed you' my mother replayed 'but you didn't.' Ms Clarke now travels the world speaking at schools and events about her experiences as a survivor and has worked with charities including the Anne Frank Trust and the Holocaust Educational Trust. The four Israeli soldiers who spent 477 days in Hamas captivity have been reunited with their families following their release earlier today. Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, who are all 20, and Liri Albag, 19, were handed over to a team from the International Committee of the Red Cross on Saturday after Israel and Palestinian militants carried out a second hostage prisoner swap. The Israeli Defence Forces confirmed that the four freed women were now with their loved ones, sharing images and videos of the emotional encounter on X. One clip shows Gilboa reuniting with her parents, as she is seen running into her father's arms while her mum screams and breaks down in tears. A separate video shows Gilboa getting kissed on the forehead by her mother as she is embraced by both of her parents. In a statement on X, Gilboa's family said: 'Our Daniela Noushi survived 477 days in hell in Gaza and how she has returned to a family embrace with us!'. A video of Levy being hugged by her father as her speechless mother sobs. 'We will protect you, everything will be alright', her father says. Israeli soldier Liri Albag (left) cries with joy as she is reunited with loved ones after her release Ms Albag was seized from her army base in southern Israel during the October 7 2023 attack This handout picture released by the Israeli army shows former Israeli hostage Liri Albag reunited with family at an army screening point in Reim in southern Israel 'Everything is ok, everything is ok', her mother tells her. 'We are happy and excited to see Naama standing on her feet and returning to us', her family said in a statement. Ariev was also shown reuniting with her parents. 'Amen, amen, our darling, you have come back', her mother tells her. Her family said in a statement that their hearts are 'filled with immense gratitude and happiness'. 'After 477 long and harrowing days of pain, worry and endless anxiety - we were finally able to hug our beloved Karina, hear her voice and see her smile that fills us with light again'. Elbag's family said of her release: 'The feeling of relief and happiness envelops us after 477 long and unbearable days of nerve-wracking waiting.' A clip shows her jumping into her parent's arms, as she screams in disbelief at the sight of her family in front of her. Liri Albag cries with relief as she is hugged tightly by her family Israeli hostage Karina Ariev reunited with family This handout picture released by the Israeli army shows former Israeli hostage Naama Levy reunited with family at an army screening point in Reim Released Israeli hostage Daniella Gilboa, a soldier who was seized from her army base in southern Israel during the deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, is embraced by her parents after being released, in an unknown location 'You are a hero, you are home, that's it', her mother can be heard telling her. The freed hostages, who are all soldiers, were met by dozens of masked and armed Hamas and fellow Islamic Jihad militants before being handed to the Red Cross. The women were brought onto a stage after exiting the vehicle, as they beamed with joy and relief and waved to the crowds. Meanwhile in Israel, thousands erupted with joy in a square in Tel Aviv, where family and friends of the hostages gathered to watch a livestream of their release. Several Tel Aviv citizens could be seen crying, smiling and hugging each other as they held up placards showing the names and faces of the hostages. The four women were then transported to the border of Gaza, where a helicopter waited for them, and were then taken to Re'im, in Israel, before being transported to hospital to receive medical checks. Around an hour after being handed over to the Red Cross, the Israeli Defence Force confirmed that the four hostages had arrived back in Israel. 'The four returning soldiers, Daniela Gilboa, Liri Elbag, Naama Levy and Karina Ariev, have now crossed the border into Israeli territory with IDF and Shin Bet forces,' the IDF wrote on X. Daniella Gilboa embraces a loved one after her release from Hamas captivity today sraeli hostage Naama Levy reunited with her mother (Left to Right) Israeli hostages Naama Levy, Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev stand on a stage before being delivered to the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross Four Israeli hostages stand on a stage before Hamas fighters hand them over to a team from the Red Cross in Gaza City on January 25, 2025 'The returnees, accompanied by IDF and Shin Bet forces, recently crossed the border into the territory of the State of Israel and are now on their way to the initial absorption point in the Gaza Strip, where they will meet with their parents.' IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari also said in a televised speech that Israel 'cannot and will not forget' the 90 hostages who remain in Gaza. Their release comes under the latest phase of a fragile ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the 15-month-old war in Gaza. The four women released today were soldiers stationed at an observation post on the edge of Gaza when they were abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Today's exchange is the second since the ceasefire began on Sunday last week and Hamas handed over three Israeli civilians in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners. Also today, Israel released a total of 200 Palestinian prisoners and detainees as part of the ceasefire deal. Around 70 of the prisoners were released into Egypt. Most of those released were serving life sentences after being convicted of dead;y attacks on Israelis. Dozens of masked and armed Hamas and fellow Islamic Jihad militants gathered at a square in Gaza City on Saturday, where a podium was set up, as a crowd of Palestinians gathered round ahead of their release Hamas fighters escort four Israeli hostages on a stage before handing them over to a team from the Red Cross in Gaza City The four women were later transported to the border of Gaza, where a helicopter waited for them Two of the released hostages are seen being handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas militants Israel is set to release 200 Palestinian prisoners in return Relatives and friends of Israeli hostages held by Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip react as they watch the release of four women soldiers, at hostage square in Tel Aviv on January 25 Hamas militants on January 25 handed over to the Red Cross four Israeli women hostages under a truce deal in the Gaza war that is also expected to see a second group of Palestinian prisoners freed People comfort each other and hold up photos ahead of the release of four Israeli hostages Crowds gather at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday to watch the livestream of the hostages being released A woman holds an Israeli flag as people gather to watch a live stream on a big screen reporting on the release of four Israeli female soldier hostages Israel and Hamas implemented the first phase of a hostage release and ceasefire deal on 19 January 2025 The father of Naama Levy and parents of Daniella Gilboa react as their daughters, Israeli soldiers who have been held hostage after being seized from their army base in southern Israel during the deadly October 7, 2023 Hamas announced yesterday that the four female soldiers would be released, but cruelly, soldier Agam Berger, 20, was not included in the list, splitting up the families who have campaigned relentlessly together to bring them all home. Video of the abduction of the five female soldiers aired in May, showing the conscripts, pyjama-clad and stunned and some bloodied, being bound and bundled into a jeep. The footage was recovered from bodycams worn by gunmen who attacked the Nahal Oz base in southern Israel where the women served as surveillance spotters. The mothers of the five women held in Gaza tirelessly campaigned for the release of their daughters, and ultimately made the agonising decision to release the horrifying three-minute Hamas Go Pro video in a desperate bid to get politicians to fight for them. The horrific clip showed the young women limping, injured and bloodied as their hands are bound. They are lined against the wall by Palestinian terrorists having been taken from Nahal Oz base during their mandatory National Service as unarmed observers. 'You dogs, we will step on you.' One screams at the girls. Another of the terrorists is seen pointing at the girls calling them 'Sabaya', an ancient islamic term that can mean female sex slave, before leering over Karina in her snoopy pyjamas, saying: 'You are so beautiful.' An Israeli military helicopter lands at a base near Reim in preparation for the release of four hostages Members from the Al-Qassam Brigades and Al-Quds Brigades are deployed at Palestine Square in Gaza City, Gaza on January 25, 2025, as preparations for further exchanges of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners under the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement continue A member of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) signs a document as Hamas militants prepare to hand over four female Israeli soldiers The International Committee of the Red Cross received a call from Hamas on Saturday to head to the designated transfer point in Gaza Members of International Committee of the Red Cross arrive at European Hospital ahead of the handover of Palestinian prisoners in Khan Yunis, Gaza on January 25, 2025, as preparations for further exchanges of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners under the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement continue An Israeli military helicopter, carrying the four Israeli female soldier released from Gaza, arrives to the Beilinson hospital in Petah Tikva, near Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli hostage Daniella Gilboa, waves as she leaves a military helicopter upon landing at the Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva on January 25, 2025 Newly released Israeli hostage Liri Albag, gestures a heart shape with her hands, from the window of a military helicopter as it prepares to land at the Shneider Children's Medical Centre in Petah Tikva on January 25, 2025 Earlier this month Hamas also released a sickening hostage video of the youngest of the hostages released, Liri Albag, who was seen shaking and crying as she begged her government to save her. A video of Levy being bundled into a jeep in Gaza circulated on social media within hours of her abduction. It showed Levy bruised and cut, the seat of her trousers stained with blood, with her hands tied behind her back, pushed into the vehicle by a gunman while bystanders chant 'God is greatest!' in Arabic. She had just begun her military service when the attack took place and as she was pushed into the jeep, she pleaded: 'I have friends in Palestine,' footage released of her capture showed. Gilboa was wounded during the attack on October 7 and was shown limping in the video showing the soldiers' capture. She was seen last year in a video released by Hamas, which showed her appealing angrily to the government to work for her release and saying she felt abandoned. Just before being taken, Ariev managed to speak briefly with her parents and sent her family a farewell message, Israeli media reported. A subsequent photo of her in captivity released by Hamas showed her with a bandaged head with what appeared to be blood stains. The list released by Hamas of the hostages it was set to release was also notable for the absence of the female civilians, Arbel Yehud, 29, and Shiri Bibas, 30, as well as her sons Kfir, two, and Ariel, five, who should have been released before female soldiers. The Israel Defence Forces and representatives of the families called on commentators not to speculate on their status as Israeli officials accused Hamas of violating the terms of the deal. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded to know why no civilians are set for release. Officials warned the continuation of the deal may be delayed. Israeli hostage, Liri Albag, a soldier who was seized from her army base in southern Israel during the deadly October 7, 2023 Daniela Gilboa is among the four female Israeli soldiers to be freed on Saturday Karina Ariev is among the four female Israeli soldiers who were held hostage for 15 months Naama Levy is one of the hostages currently being held in Gaza and set to be freed on Saturday But Hamas later confirmed today that Yehud is alivd and will be freed next Saturday. Agam Berger's cousin Ashley Waxman Bakshi, 38, told the Mail the terror group is using the hostage release to continue its 'psychological warfare' against Israelis. 'It is so cruel and evil that the five girls are being split,' she said hours before the announcement that her relative would not be freed today. Where are they? Fears have grown over the youngest Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza, after they were not among those released in the latest prisoner exchang. Kfir and Ariel Bibas, two and five, were taken by Hamas on October 7 alongside their parents Yarden and Shiri. Their names were on the list if hostages to be released in the first six-week phase of the ceasefire, but their families have received no information on them since. IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari blasted Hamas today in a televised statement, as the militant group was meant to release civilian women first as part of the deal. The four who were released today were all soldiers, raising questions about the condition of the young boys and their parents. Advertisement 'It's just awful because we've done everything together for the past 15 and a half months. 'It really is the highest level of evil and psychological warfare they're doing to the families by ripping us apart like that.' She was speaking at a ceremony where Agam's mother Meirav, 48, prayed for her daughter's safe return in Tel Aviv on Thursday. Mrs Berger, supported by her husband, Shlomi, 52, said in a prayer: 'The return of our beloved daughters is approaching, God willing. We are counting the minutes and waiting with bated breath for everyone's return.' Mrs Berger finished the prayer by adding: 'This land will not rest until all our hostages are home. This is my promise.' The first phase agreement that will see 33 hostages freed in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners states that Hamas must let Israel know who it is freeing 24 hours in advance. But on the first week they were 18 hours late and have still not stated how many of those due to be released imminently are alive. It means Israelis face a torturous wait each week to discover who is living and who will be freed. Ms Waxman Bakshi compared it to some of the darkest days of Jewish history. 'It's just an awful feeling that we've gone back to the days of the Holocaust, where we have lists determining who's going to have what fate.' Hamas should let Israel know today how many of the 30 hostages remaining in the first phase are alive. But it is feared they won't name them, only state the number of the living out of each category women, elderly, and sick to prolong the families' suffering. It is hoped Agam will be freed next Saturday. She was doing national service as an unarmed observer at Nahal Oz base when she was taken captive along with Daniella, Naama, Karina, and Liri. Mel Gibson shocked viewers by comparing President Donald Trump's arrival in California to a father coming home to discipline his children by 'taking his belt off'. The Hacksaw Ridge actor, whose Malibu mansion burned down in the wildfires raging across Southern California, joined Friday's edition of Hannity on Fox News shortly after Trump had an intense sit-down with California officials. During the heated meeting, the president repeatedly clashed with Democratic politicians, blaming them for 'not doing enough' to contain the devastating fires. Gibson, 69, boldly replied to the tense exchange, which was aired live, likening Trump's arrival to a father coming home to beat his children. 'It's like daddy arrived and he's taking his belt off,' he said. Hannity questioned the Braveheart actor on his 'frustrating' experience 'living through' the deadly blazes that have leveled over 50,000 acres in the Golden State, according to CalFire. 'How bad has it been?' Hannity, 63, asked Gibson on Friday. Mel Gibson, 69, left Fox News host Sean Hannity speechless as he approvingly compared the president's arrival in California to a father coming home to discipline his children President Donald Trump had a heated sit-down with California officials on Friday. The exchange, which was aired live, saw Trump blame the Democratic politicians for 'not doing enough' to contain the devastating fires Gibson shocked viewers with his comparison of Trump arriving in Califoornia to a father coming home to discipline his children by 'taking his belt off' Others praised the actor's take and even called Trump's arrival 'a breath of fresh air' after the president visited the Golden State to address the ongoing wildfires 'You've been living through these wildfires. You read about hydrants that don't have water. 'You read about cutting firefighters' budgets, you read about reservoirs that are empty. I mean, it's gotta be frustrating,' the talk radio show host continued. 'Well, it is,' Gibson agreed, addressing his continued frustration with the 'poor handling' of the still-burning fires. 'There are those that say, "They must've done it on purpose." I won't go that far, but if they didn't do it on purpose, I think they certainly facilitated it.' he added. Five fires remain active in California as of Saturday morning, however, all but the Border 2 Fire, which began on Thursday, have reached at least 80 percent containment. The Patriot actor extended his condolences to those affected. 'My heart goes out to all the other residents. You meet people all the time who've lost their homes. And you talk and commiserate and buck each other up, and everyone's putting on a brave face. They're a good bunch out here,' he said. Gibson said he was 'glad' the president had arrived, hopeful his presence and handlings of the issues will 'get results quickly.' 'I'm glad Trump's here at the moment,' he continued. 'I think he'll get some results here quickly.' Last week, Trump named Gibson as 'Special Ambassador' to Hollywood. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited with displaced California residents as they toured the Pacific Palisades neighborhood affected by recent wildfires on January 24 Last week, Trump named Gibson as 'Special Ambassador' to Hollywood after his million dollar Malibu mansion burned down earlier this month. Pictured: Mel Gibson tours the remains of his California home Five fires remain active in California as of Saturday morning, however, all but the Border 2 Fire, which began on Thursday, have reached at least 80 percent containment. Pictured: A structure is burned by the Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles The actor said he learned of the appointment via Trump's social media post announcing it. 'I got the tweet at the same time as all of you and was just as surprised,' he said in a statement. 'Nevertheless, I heed the call. My duty as a citizen is to give any help and insight I can.' Gibson first discovered his Malubi home had been consumed by fire while recording an episode on Joe Rogan's podcast on January 10 and has since opened up to Fox host Laura Ingraham about the tragedy. 'These are things and they may or may not be replaceable but we're still here and I just kind of look at it in a weird kind of a way like a purification,' he told Fox News. After learning that his house was about to be destroyed the actor said he rushed back to the Malibu mansion with his son to grab whatever they could before it all turned to ash. He said the pair only escaped with their passports and a few other important documents while his artworks and books, some of which were from the 16th century and priceless, were destroyed in the flames. Gibson traveled through the LA fire damage calling the ruinous scenes 'totally crazy' as firefighters said 'there was no warning the reservoir was running low' and they 'were stunned' when the water stopped Gibson first discovered his Malubi home had been consumed by fire on January 10 and has since opened up to Fox host Laura Ingraham (pictured) about the tragedy Twenty-eight people are known to have died across the Los Angeles area, however, officials have said the true death toll is not known as the fires continue to destroy neighborhoods. Pictured: Flames rise from the Sunset Fire in the hills overlooking the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles 'It reminds me of the old cattle barons clearing people off the land. I don't know... it just seemed a little convenient that there was no water,' he said. 'The wind conditions and the fact that there were people ready, willing and able to start fires. And are they commissioned to do so or are they just acting on their own volition?' Twenty-eight people are known to have died across the Los Angeles area after several destructive wildfires fueled by dry conditions and powerful winds erupted January 7. Nearly 17,000 structures have been destroyed and tens of thousands people have been forced from their homes. Officials have said the true death toll is not known as the fires continue to destroy neighborhoods. More than seven million Brits tuned in to watch the finale of the Traitors last night -smashing records on the way to its explosive climax. The episode was watching live by an average audience of 7.4million people as project manager Jake Brown and Leanne Quigley triumphed as faithfuls, taking home a prize pot of 94,600. The show, filmed at Ardross Castle near Inverness, involves 'faithfuls' attempting to banish 'traitors' - fellow contestants who are scheming to eliminate the others without getting caught in order to take home as much as 120,000. But in a change from the format of the first two series' of the show, players no longer reveal whether they were faithfuls or traitors during the finale - adding extra tension throughout the nail-biting episode. The viewing figures only include those viewers who watched last night as the programme aired, and do not include those watching on BBC iPlayer. Meanwhile, the BBC said around 4.8million tuned into an extended episode of The Traitors: Uncloaked discussion podcast, which was broadcast across BBC One and the BBC Sounds listening app. Last year an average of 5.5million watched British army engineer - and traitor - Harry Clark walk away with a prize of 95,150 after deceiving his friend Mollie Pearce into believing he was on her side. Peak viewing figures are also greater this year: 7.6million against 6.9million in the series two finale in 2024. Leanne Quigley and Jake Brown romped to victory in The Traitors' finale last night - pictured here with host Claudia Winkleman The hugely tense finale was watched by an average of 7.4million people - up almost two million on last year's average The hugely tense finale saw Frankie and Alexander voted off in the closing minutes - despite also being 'faithfuls' Friday's episode saw interior designer Francesca 'Frankie' Rowan-Plowden, and former British diplomat Alexander Dragonetti banished, as their fellow faithfuls did not believe that they were not traitors. Business director Charlotte Berman, who had been pretending to be Welsh before being made a traitor later the series, was the first to be banished after she aroused suspicion from her fellow competitors. Earlier in the episode, Francesca, who was granted the power of the 'seer', meaning she could find out secretly if a player was a faithful or traitor, was told, away from the other contestants, that Charlotte was deceiving her. Charlotte maintained her innocence during the episode, but the other players decided to believe Francesca, who did not have any proof that her friend was a traitor. Speaking on BBC Breakfast earlier on Saturday, series three winner Jake said he had been inundated with messages from people he had inspired, having entered the show as someone with cerebral palsy. 'Even though I'm disabled, it doesn't define me as a person,' he said. 'But I am proud of it. It makes me who I am.' Leanne said her friends and family were 'absolutely made up' for her after her win, adding: 'It's been a long time keeping it a secret.' The show, presented by Claudia Winkleman and made by Studio Lambert, has won a host of awards, including at the Bafta TV Awards in 2023 for best reality and constructed factual. The award-winning series pitches 'traitors' against 'faithfuls' as they compete for a cash prize The show is presented by Claudia Winkleman - and her outfits throughout the series have become hugely popular Jake, Claudia and Leanne posed together for a photo in London on Friday as the finale went out The pair could barely believe they had made it to the end as 'faithfuls' from the outset First aired in the Netherlands, it is loosely based on the social game Mafia, also known as Werewolf, which follows the same 'faithful/traitors' dynamic that sees players eliminated one by one. Despite being filmed in Scotland, it has courted controversy among industry figures for allegedly bringing crews up from London to film instead of hiring north of the border. The row began following the first season of the Traitors in 2022, when Studio Lambert reported that half the off-screen talent working on the show were Scottish. Those working in the TV industry in Scotland contacted Ofcom over what they believed to be a discrepancy, which the regulator upheld. The BBC is required to produce a certain amount of its output outside of London. Peter Strachan, who runs pressure group, SUSST - Speaking Up for Scotland's Screen Talent, said the current situation is 'dire' and 'can no longer be deemed acceptable'. 'For Studio Lambert to claim that they are investing in the Scottish production community is a joke,' he said. The BBC said of the claims: 'As per Ofcom's regional production definition, The Traitors qualifies as a Scotland production and is clearly made in the Scottish Highlands, as viewers will know.' Farmers have taken their tractors to the streets as they step up their campaign against Keir Starmer's inheritance tax grab. Fury has spread against the plans following protests last year, with works saying the new measures would 'decimate' the country's agricultural sector. The National Farmers Union (NFU) has now urged its members to make themselves heard - as they take food, machinery and livestock to town centres across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. In a so-called National Day of Unity they could be seen winding along busy highstreets and city centres, with huge tractors plastered with slogans. It comes after a petition signed by more than 270,000 members of the public was handed in to 10 Downing Street on Friday by NFU president Tom Bradshaw and NFU Cymru president Aled Jones. The decree urges the Government to ditch what they described as the 'devastating family farm tax'. Rachel Hallos, a livestock farmer from the South Pennines and the vice president of the NFU, said she hoped the events will 'raise awareness' of the impact of the planned reforms to inheritance tax for farming businesses, and push the Government to review its decision. Speaking on her way to an event in Chester, Cheshire, Ms Hallos said: 'The inheritance tax changes from the Budget will ultimately decimate what we've currently got in this country, and we're really worried about it. SELBY: Tractors are parked outside Selby Abbey during the Farmer's Day of Unity demonstration SELBY: Tractors dressed with slogans against Starmer's tax set off to drive through the streets of Selby LEAMINGTON SPA: Farmers drive tractors along the Parade as the protest against changes to inheritance tax rules LISBURN CO ANTRIM: Farmers gather in tractors at the Maze site for one of seven protest tractor runs across Northern Ireland CAMBRIDGE: Protesters take part in a day of action across Britain organised by the NFU and other farming unions ROCHESTER: Local farmers park their tractors in a Morrisons car park before their protest begins Ministers have insisted their action - dubbed the 'family farm tax' - will only affect the wealthiest quarter of landowners. Pictured: Starmer during a visit to National Farmers' Union president Minette Batters' farm in Wiltshire in 2020 'Today is about telling people why we are so concerned, trying to explain how complicated the food supply chain is, because it really is, and that farmers are at the beginning of that food supply chain. 'We completely appreciate that a lot of members of the general public will say, 'Oh for goodness sake, you're alright in your big farmhouses, all this lamb that you own...' 'But the reality is, those are our assets, we never sell them. 'So it's complicated, and we're just trying to shed a light on it for some members of the public who don't quite understand why we're making so much noise about this.' Ministers have insisted their action - dubbed the 'family farm tax' - will only affect the wealthiest quarter of landowners. But the National Farmers' Union (NFU) and others say the impact of Ms Reeves' measures will be much more widespread. Critics claim the move could wipe out family-run farms with tight margins, as they will be forced to sell up in order to pay death duties. Ms Hallos added: 'We genuinely don't believe that the Government understands the complexity of what it is that happens in the countryside and how entwined all those rural businesses are. In a so-called National Day of Unity they could be seen winding along busy highstreets and city centres, with huge tractors plastered with slogan. Pictured: With Selby abbey in the background Critics claim the move could wipe out family-run farms with tight margins, as they will be forced to sell up in order to pay death duties The National Farmers' Union (NFU) and others say the impact of Ms Reeves' measures will be widespread A farmer drives through Selby in his tractor with a mock headstone on the front reading 'RIP UK food' Another driver travels through Selby with a wooden sign telling people to 'honk if you're hungry' A youngster sits in the cab of a tractor as they set off to drive through the streets of Selby 'They all rely on each other. It's a little bit like a deck of cards - if you pull one of those cards out, the whole thing comes tumbling down. 'And the fact that the entire industry has come together with such strength and such clarity, and for the Government to disregard that and not want to sit at the table and talk about this is quite remarkable. 'Food and environment just doesn't seem to be important to this Government.' Latest figure revealed that farmers are barely receiving a penny profit on the produce they sell. A four pack of beef burgers (350g) costs in your local super market around 3.50, and it only cost the farmer 90p, however they only make a 1p profit. Similarly a 480g pack of cheddar a supermarket will charge 2.50 but it costs dairy farmer 1.48 to produce and they make less than a penny in profit. A supermarket will charge 45p for a kilo of carrots, it costs a farmer 14p to produce and they make no profit on the selling price. The government has come under further pressure this week after supermarkets also called for a rethink of the family farm tax. Tractors set off to drive through the streets of Selby as farmers participate in a Farming Day of Unity It comes after a petition signed by more than 270,000 members of the public was handed in to 10 Downing Street on Friday by NFU president Tom Bradshaw and NFU Cymru president Aled Jones The decree urges the Government to ditch what they described as the 'devastating family farm tax' A man stands with a placard as he shows support as farmers hold a Farming Day of Unity in Selby : A youngster is dwarfed by a tractor wheel at a static display in Selby town centre Nine major food retailers - Waitrose, Ocado, Tesco, Lidl, Aldi, the Co-op, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons - are now in opposition to tax changes to inheritance rules - which farmers say will force many farms to be broken up. Referring to the petition handed in to 10 Downing Street on Friday, Ms Hallos said: 'We've already seen huge public support. 'We want to grow that support with our customers, because these are our customers, and hopefully the Government finally realises that they need to sit down and have a conversation with us. 'Let's work this out between us - let's find out what to do, what to achieve out of this, and we'll help them achieve that without causing that disaster to the food supply chain.' Earlier this week the shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins called on the Government to measure the number of farmers dying by suicide to 'understand the human cost' of the Government's changes to inheritance tax on agricultural land urged the Government to commit to 'a full and proper review of this dreadful policy'. The National Farmers' Union has warned that some farmers may commit suicide to avoid their heirs being hit with 20 per cent inheritance tax. But Treasury minister James Murray said the Government's plans to impose 20 per cent inheritance tax on farms worth more than 1 million is a 'fair approach', with current relief on business and agricultural assets 'heavily skewed towards the wealthiest estates'. Next month, MPs are set to hold another debate over the impact of the family farm tax, after a petition - 'Don't change inheritance tax relief for working farms' - reached over 100,000 signatures. A pedestrian makes a thumbs-up gesture as farmers drive tractors along the Parade in Leamington Spa Local farmers park their tractors in a Morrisons car park in Rochester Farmers gather in tractors at the Maze site and cover them in posters close to Lisburn, Co Antrim The Farming Day of Unity brought together farmers from across the UK to participate in events in town centres. Pictured: In Selby A battered placard is displayed on a tractor as farmers hold a Farming Day of Unity A badge adorns a jacket of a farmer as local farmers park their tractors in a Morrisons car park in Rochester The House of Commons petitions committee has agreed that a debate on the subject will take place on February 10 at 4:30pm. Thirty local councils, including Cornwall, Suffolk and Northumberland, have also voted through motions condemning the policy. A spokesperson for the NFU said Saturday's events, in places including Cambridge, Warwick and Selby in North Yorkshire, were about 'visibility'. The spokesperson said: 'It's about going out to the public in the town centres and thanking them for their support, encouraging them to keep supporting farming. 'The visibility is about a reminder that the problem is still there.' They added: 'We want the chance to meet and discuss, and review the decisions that she (Chancellor Rachel Reeves) has made.' A Government spokesperson said: 'Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast. 'This Government will invest 5 billion into farming over the next two years, the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country's history. Lines of tractors arrived at the site of the former Maze Prison on Saturday to take part in the two Co Down routes, many bearing posters which read Save Our Family Farms and UFU flags They left to cover two routes, one along the busy A1 road to Banbridge, and the other to Saintfield. Processions also took place in counties Armagh, Antrim, Tyrone, Fermanagh and Londonderry Speaking at the Maze site, UFU chief executive Wesley Aston said they were stepping up their action after a protest event at the same place in November 'We are going further with reforms to boost profits for farmers by backing British produce and reforming planning rules on farms to support food production. 'Our reform to Agricultural and Business Property Relief will mean estates will pay a reduced effective inheritance tax rate of 20%, rather than standard 40%, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free. 'This is a fair and balanced approach, which fixes the public services we all rely on, affecting around 500 estates a year.' Seven protest runs took place across all six counties of Northern Ireland, organised by the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU), including two in Co Down. Lines of tractors arrived at the site of the former Maze Prison on Saturday to take part in the two Co Down routes, many bearing posters which read Save Our Family Farms and UFU flags. They left to cover two routes, one along the busy A1 road to Banbridge, and the other to Saintfield. Processions also took place in counties Armagh, Antrim, Tyrone, Fermanagh and Londonderry. Speaking at the Maze site, UFU chief executive Wesley Aston said they were stepping up their action after a protest event at the same place in November. He said the new rules the Government is proposing on inheritance tax will mean huge bills for the next generation of farmers, which will risk the viability of family farms in the future. 'This is another step to highlight the concern we have and let the general public know how impactful this will be, not only to farmers but food security going forward,' he said. 'We are doing our bit in Northern Ireland but this is part of a UK-wide activity and plan of action so that the Government will actually start engaging with us as farmers to look at this issue.' He said they want to send a strong message to the Government that this is a huge issue for the farming community, their level of concern, and urging to listen to them. He said future action will be taken if deemed necessary. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has been heckled by environmental protesters as he gave a speech on Saturday saying it is time to battle against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's 'miserabilist, declinist vision'. Two women shouted over him as he used an address to the Fabian Society to call for the centre-left to take on the 'populist right'. The Fabian Society, a socialist organisation and think tank, lists its purpose as advancing the principles of social democracy. One of the demonstrators, who were both swiftly taken out of the conference hall in central London by security, said she was protesting against the continued subsidisation of Drax power station in North Yorkshire. Zoe Courtney-Bodgener, one of the protesters, said afterwards: 'Labour promised change and we voted for them because we wanted change and they are continuing to subsidise. 'We still believe that there's time for them to make a difference, but they need to end the subsidies now.' Health Secretary Wes Streeting was speaking at the Fabian Society about fighting back against the 'populist right' and Nigel Farage's Reform UK party Two women shouted over him and called for the end to subsidies to Drax power station in North Yorkshire The women were swiftly removed from the conference hall in the Guildhall, London by security One of the women said: 'We still believe that there's time for them to make a difference, but they need to end the subsidies now' Online, climate organisations Climate Resistance and Axe Drax claimed responsibility for the disruption. In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, a spokesperson for Axe Drax said: 'Wes Streeting and Labour cannot talk seriously about protecting health whilst continuing to enable polluters to profit massively from poisoning communities. 'It's high time this government committed to ending subsidies for Drax, Britain's dirtiest power station.' A spokesperson for Climate Resistance added: 'Climate Resistance and Axe Drax just disrupted Wes Streeting at the Fabian Society conference! 'We confronted him about government subsidies for Drax, the worlds largest tree-burner that pollutes the air in the UK and abroad. The climate crisis IS a health crisis.' After the hecklers were removed, Wes Streeting said he was surprised there 'were only two' In his keynote address Mr Streeting accused Nigel Farage (pictured) of offering a 'miserablist, declinist' vision for Britain After his speech, Mr Streeting joked: 'I can't believe there were only two.' In his keynote address Mr Streeting accused Mr Farage of offering a 'miserablist, declinist' vision for Britain. 'The populist right are coming for us and we need to be serious about beating them,' he said. 'The crux of Farage's argument is this: what was possible in the 20th century isn't possible in the 21st. It's a miserablist, declinist vision for Britain's future. 'People shouldn't have to choose between a health service that treats them on time and an NHS free at point of use. 'That's a poverty of ambition for our country and Labour utterly rejects it.' A society that does not think does not deserve to survive. The national reaction to the case of the teenage mass-killer Axel Rudakubana is totally unthinking from top to bottom. Does anyone really believe (as Sir Keir Starmer does) that making knives slightly harder to buy will stop knife crime? No. So that's that brilliant idea dealt with. Next? Some try to pretend that Rudakubana, an ignorant, vicious, unhinged dimwit, is a political terrorist because he once looked at a terrorist website on his laptop. They hope this will excuse their dangerous rumour-mongering at the time of the Southport killings, which led to an outbreak of lawless violence. It will not. Rudakubana is not a terrorist, any more than Paddington Bear is a terrorist. The idea is idiotic. He is plainly crazy, as are many of those who kill on our streets. A significant number of British people are killed each year by mentally ill persons, though accurate figures are increasingly hard to find. This fact especially does not suit the Government, which cannot afford to rebuild the badly needed mental hospitals it stupidly sold off 40 years ago. Rudakubana became crazy around the age of 12 or 13, between being filmed dressed as Doctor Who, cheerful and normal, and becoming the blank-eyed, masked, mumbling grotesque which he now is. Rudakubana began to display 'anger issues' and started to turn to violence around the age of 13. That is usually the point that the children of Britain first encounter marijuana. Within a couple of years, many of them are irreparably damaged, and some are crazily violent. Axel Rudakubana, cheerful and normal, dressed as Doctor Who for a Children in Need fundraising video when he was 12. He became crazy soon afterwards Rudakubana is now a blank-eyed, mumbling grotesque. He began to display 'anger issues' and started to turn to violence around the age of 13 This happens whether the children involved are in bog-standard comps, slick 'academies' or in the smoothest fee-charging establishments. Marijuana harms all who take it, not least because its victims are told falsely that it is 'soft'. In fact it is as soft as a nailed club. Their young brains are half-formed and gravely vulnerable. It is now quite clear that in some cases the harm is deep and terrible. Thousands of British families have seen their children tragically decline round about this point in their lives. Some lose the will to work or study and begin lives of drifting. Some lose their minds and can never find them again. In others, it is much, much worse. This is one of the biggest recent social changes in our society and nobody does anything about it because nobody talks about it. Enforcing the law against marijuana possession is one of the many things the police and courts no longer do. That is why there will be another Rudakubana along pretty soon. Not that anyone will tell you so, because he will not have been arrested for his illegal drug use, and so there will be no record of it. All psychiatrists know that some crazy people like to dignify their craziness by adopting political or religious causes they don't know anything about. For example, in 2015 a young man called Muhaydin Mire went crazy with a knife at Leytonstone Underground Station in London. He called out, 'This is for Syria!' as he wielded his blade, seriously injuring one of his three victims. I doubt he knew where Syria is, then or later. For it turned out that he had gone mad after, yes, smoking a lot of marijuana. He was, in fact, so mad that he (literally) thought that Sir Anthony Blair was his guardian angel. He was so mad that his family had tried to get him put away in a secure mental hospital. Alas these are all full, and harder to get into than Oxbridge colleges, and so their plea was refused. Even after all this came about, our judicial system continued to insist that his crime was in some way political. Well, there are few better ways to ensure that such horrors continue to happen. Every time they take place, some minister or police chief will at some point say grandly that 'this must never happen again'. As they say it, I know it will happen again. I've been saying this unceasingly for about 15 years, so I know it's a bit early to expect anyone to pay any attention. But our long, stupid indulgence of marijuana use has a huge, bloody price tag attached. And if you don't want more Southports, you had blinking well better do something about it. How can Trump pardon violent culprits involved in this attack? I spent much of last week listening to supposed conservatives welcoming the return to the White House of Donald J. Trump. 'Woke is in retreat!', they cry. 'Rejoice!' Well, let's see how unwoke the USA actually is after four years of Mr Trump who, I suspect, cares nothing about this subject. His last stint in office did not make much difference to it, in hard reality. But even if Mr Trump really is a crusader against political correctness, how high a price are you ready to pay for this? I'll leave aside the many repulsive things about the 47th President which all can see. But there is a hard core to his nastiness which is not just ugly and crude. It is flat wrong. What Mr Trump is asking for if you are a conservative is your soul. No conservative can scorn the rule of law. Without it, there can be no civilisation and no freedom. So how can you welcome a President who within hours of coming to power pardons scores of violent criminals who are also his political supporters? The Capitol is stormed in 2021, in shameful scenes. Now those jailed for the attack have been set free by the new President Those involved played a major part in the shameful attack on the Capitol, symbol of US democracy, when, in January 2021 Mr Trump was claiming he had been robbed of power by a rigged election. His new Vice-President, JD Vance, said a few days ago: 'If you committed violence on that day, obviously you shouldn't be pardoned.' Within days, Mr Trump had made a fool of him. Here's just one example. Daniel Rodriguez was jailed for 12 years for assaulting police officer Michael Fanone, after other men had dragged him into the mob and then beaten him. Rodriguez plunged a stun gun into the police officer's neck. The officer later suffered a heart attack. At a pathetic, rambling, tetchy press conference, in which Mr Trump showed no grasp of the facts, he called one of his questioners 'horrible' and absurdly claimed to be the 'friend of the police'. I cannot see how any conservative can welcome the arrival in the Oval Office of such a man. Pete Hegseth has officially been sworn in as Defense Secretary, with all seven of his children watching on. Hegseth swore an oath of office beside Vice President JD Vance in front of his wife and children. The US Senate narrowly confirmed the former Fox News co-host as being the Pentagon Chief on Friday. Speaking after the swearing in, Hegseth thanked President Trump and described the job as an 'honor of a lifetime'. He added: 'We look forward to having the backs of our troops in executing peace through strength, in putting America first and improving our military.' Hegseth also thanked Vance for 'breaking the tie' in backing his appointment after his vote was the deciding ballot. The 44-year-old added: 'There was so many folks on this inside and allies on the outside who stood by us. 'I want to thank the warfighters, I want to thank the men and women wearing the uniform. Hegseth swore an oath of office beside Vice President JD Vance in front of his wife and children Hegseth hugs his children, after US Vice President JD Vance administered the oath of office to him 'Every time I stand at a podium the first thing that goes through my head are the guys I served with on the battlefield.' 'We will put America first, we will bring peace through strength. The three principles I talked about are what we will bring to that Pentagon. 'Restore the warrior ethos in everything we do, rebuild our military and reestablish deterrents, we don't want to fight wars. We want to end them responsibly.' He added: 'If we need to fight them, we are going to bring overwhelming and decisive force to destroy the enemy and to bring our boys home.' His seven children Gwen, Kenzie, Jackson, Gunnar, Boone, Rex and Luke celebrated with their dad with a group hug after being sworn in. Hegseth and his wife Jennifer Rauchet share one child together, Gwen, with Hegseth having three children from his previous marriage and Rauchet having the same. Hegseth is Donald Trump's most controversial confirmation so far and he was skating on thin ice before getting a passing vote from senators Friday. Directly after Trump announced Hegseth's nomination in November the candidate was dogged with allegations, including drinking issues, sexual misconduct and poor business judgement. The father of seven denies wrongdoing in those instances, and he credits God and his third wife Jennifer for helping him change course. 'I'm not perfect,' he testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee as his wife sat directly behind her husband in a show of support. But in the past 24 hours just ahead of his final confirmation multiple Republicans turned their backs on Trump's nominee and said they would not vote for him. Hegseth also thanked Vance for 'breaking the tie' in backing his appointment after his vote was the deciding ballot Speaking after the swearing in, Hegseth thanked President Trump and described the job as an 'honor of a lifetime' Hegseth is Donald Trump's most controversial confirmation so far and he was skating on thin ice before getting a passing vote from senators Friday Hegseth celebrated with many of his fellow Republicans, as well as his wife and seven children in a photo with Oklahoma 's Markwayne Mullen on Friday Despite this, Hegseth was confirmed into the Pentagon's top job - proving that Donald Trump's MAGA mandate has overcome even the most skeptical senators. Hegseth did not win over all Republicans, however. Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska revealed they would not back the candidate, in part due to the scandals hanging over him. Mitch McConnell also voted against Hegseth, and in a strange scene was seen celebrating with Democrats following the vote despite their loss. McConnell, who is hawkish on U.S. defense and foreign policy, had voted earlier this week to advance the nomination to the floor but was a no on confirmation. In a statement, McConnell wrote that 'In public comments and testimony before the Armed Services Committee, Mr. Hegseth did not reckon with this reality.' Following his confirmation, Trump said that 'winning is what matters' after the rare tiebreaker inside the Senate. Trump was on the tarmac at LAX after visiting the California wildfires Friday, when he was asked his thoughts on the confirmation after saying he'd spoken to Hegseth. Pete Hegseth has shared this image of himself on social media from his time serving in Iraq 'We just heard that we have a great Secretary of Defense, we're very happy about that and we appreciate everybody's vote,' Trump said under the noise of Air Force One. When asked about McConnell's 'no' vote, which Trump had jokingly predicted earlier in the day, the president responded: 'I didn't know that, I just know that we won.' When pressed again on McConnell's vote, he once again said he didn't know that it had happened and repeated: 'I just heard that we won. Winning is what matters, right?' Another reporter asked if Trump was worried if Hegseth only getting 50 votes was a predictor of potential trouble for more of the president's nominees. 'No, I'm honored to have Pete, I think Pete's going to be a great Secretary of Defense.' Earlier this week Hegseth was accused of paying $50,000 to a woman who accused him of sexual assault, according to files from Senator Elizabeth Warren's office. Hegseth was investigated for an alleged sexual assault in 2017, but no charges were filed. But answers he provided to the Massachusetts Democrat as a part of the vetting process show evidence of the payment, the Associated Press reported after reviewing Warren's material. It is one of the multiple allegations he and Republicans have dismissed as smears while he battled to lead the Pentagon. That $50,000 payment, which only came to light hours before his confirmation vote, was not brought up during the defense secretary nominee's confirmation hearing last week. The alleged incident took place in the early morning hours of Oct. 8, 2017, at the address of the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa in Monterey, California, the city said in a statement. The police department investigated 'an alleged sexual assault' involving Hegseth, a Army National Guard veteran, that was reported four days later, according to the statement. The victim's name and age are confidential and Hegseth was divorced from his second wife at the time of the alleged incident. A Jewish activist who lost her home in the Pacific Palisades fire received sick taunts from Palestine supporters who said: 'Next time, I hope you're in it.' Samantha Ettus shared a video on Instagram thanking those who have reached out to her during the fires and revealed that her home 'burned to the ground with all of our possessions.' But those who disagreed with her outspoken support for the Jewish community amid the conflict in Gaza riddled her post with pro-Palestinian messages. 'Karma baby,' one wrote accompanied cruelly by laughing emojis. 'Imagine if soldiers did this to your home and thousands more on purpose. Imagine they killed tens of thousands of innocent women and children too. I missed you[r] gram of sympathy for them,' another said. Another commenter said: 'So sorry but maybe just maybe this will make you think about the pain of the Palestinians who list not only their possessions but their children too.' One user, Tay Denson, even sent Ettus a private message on Facebook which said they were 'Glad you lost your home' and 'Next time [I] hope you're in it.' Samantha Ettus, a supporter for Israel, received hateful messages from pro-Palestine supporters after sharing that her home had burned down in the LA fires Ettus' home in the Pacific Palisades burned down in the fires Ettus shared a video on Instagram thanking those who have reached out to her during the fires and revealed that her home 'burned to the ground with all of our possessions' The sick message was the last straw for Ettus, who posted a follow up video not too long after her first. She said: 'This message I just received on Facebook hit me a little harder. it says, "Glad you lost your home, next time I hope you're in it," Now, given the personal tragedy my family has been coping with, losing all of our things and our home and our neighborhood and our community in the Palisades fire. 'This one just hit differently, so here is how I'm going to use it. I'm certainly not going to stop speaking out, but I am going to ask you to speak out,' she said. A rally of supporters flooded her comments and called the messages 'utterly sick.' 'This is a vile and hideous message to receive. Never forget how strong you are, how courageous you are, and how much you are affecting change in this ugly ugly world. I applaud you and I'm so sorry that you are going through such a terrible time,' one commenter wrote. 'So sick. What is wrong with people?' 'I just feel sorry for people that stoop to that level of depravity,' another said. Ettus is a self-proclaimed 'accidental' activist, who launched 2024 New Voices - a social media campaign against antisemitism. Ettus received comments on her post, where she shared the heartbreak of losing her home in the LA fires, from pro-Palestine supporters that attacked her for her support for Israel Celebs such as Cindy Crawford and David Arquette have featured in the campaign. Being so outspoken in favor of the Jewish community after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, Ettus became a regular target for pro-Palestine supporters. The contentious topic, however, is yet to be quashed and Ettus continues to speak out for her cause. 'If I can speak out even after receiving something like this, then you can be a little less fearful too,' Ettus said. 'We are all together in this, so that's my hope.' Recently, four female Israeli soldiers were released by Hamas and reunited with their families after 15 months in Gaza, one of which was said to have died in November. Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, who are all 20, and Liri Albag, 19, were seen on Saturday stepping out of a Palestinian vehicle and were handed over to a team from the International Committee of the Red Cross after being paraded in front of a crowd in Gaza City. Dozens of masked and armed Hamas and fellow Islamic Jihad militants gathered at a square, where a podium was set up. (Left to Right) Israeli hostages Naama Levy, Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev stand on a stage before being delivered to the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross A banner hanging off the stage read in Hebrew 'Zionism will not prevail.' The women were brought onto a stage after exiting the vehicle, as they beamed with joy and relief and waved to the crowds. Meanwhile in Israel, thousands erupted with joy in a square in Tel Aviv, where family and friends of the hostages gathered to watch a livestream of their release. Several Tel Aviv citizens could be seen crying, smiling and hugging each other as they held up placards showing the names and faces of the hostages. The four women were then transported to the border of Gaza, where a helicopter waited for them. Around an hour after being handed over to the Red Cross, the Israeli Defense Force confirmed that the four hostages had arrived back in Israel. It could almost be the punchline to a joke - but works on a major trunk road to turn it into a dual carriageway really are being held up by a slow-moving report on snails. Councillors on Norfolk County Council are incensed at the glacial pace at which work is taking place to relocate endangered snails living close to the A47 near Great Yarmouth. Plans were tabled to turn the road into a dual carriageway to facilitate more traffic and make the locally reviled accident blackspot safer for drivers. But the work has been held up by the presence of Little Whirlpool Ramshorn snails, aquatic gastropods which have shells just a few millimetres in diameter that are among the most endangered small creatures in Britain. Concentrated populations are found in just three areas of Britain: the Arun Valley in West Sussex, the Pevensey levels in East Sussex, and the Norfolk Broads - particularly along the Acle Straight, a 6.8mile stretch of the A47. Ecologists have been criticised for the 'extraordinary' length of time taken by ecologists investigating the snails, which live on the surrounding marshes. The work was announced by National Highways in 2015, and began the next year. It was meant to finish five years ago in 2019, but was extended into 2023 - with 'mixed' results, owing to the significant challenge associated with relocating the snails. Now bosses at National Highways have announced the results of the study will not be published until later in the summer this year. Road to shell: Little Whirlpool Ramshorn snails are among the most endangered small creatures in Britain (close-up image of one of the molluscs) The A47 Acle Straight leads to Great Yarmouth - but is a major accident blackspot with numerous accidents each year The A47 Alliance represents local residents and businesses who want to see the road dualled (stock picture of dual carriageway) Construction cannot take place until the miniature molluscs are successfully relocated - their 'red list' status protecting them from being significantly disturbed. But the spiralling delays have frustrated local representatives including Cllr Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council's highways spokesperson, given the road's dubious safety record. The council reported in 2023 that if the A47 had been dualled as planned, 12 fewer people would have died and there would have been 28 fewer serious injuries every year for the five years prior. Cllr Plant, who is also the chair of dualling lobbying group the A47 Alliance, said: 'It seems that Natural England can take as much time as they like, and in the meantime, we see people die on the Acle Straight. 'I just wonder what the priority is here.' James Wild, the Conservative MP for North West Norfolk, said the snail study had taken an 'extraordinary' amount of time. At a recent meeting of the A47 Alliance at which Highways England announced the latest timeframe for the research - he asked officials: 'Are you seriously saying there has been an eight-year study into this?' Jan Challis, from National Highways, told the meeting: 'Between 2016 and 2023 several populations were moved and monitored to understand their survival rates. 'That study will report this summer. I do not know the details of what it is going to say, but it will be given to Natural England, who will then take a view on it.' He added: 'The snails are not the only reason for the Acle Straight being in the situation it is in. It is one of very many factors - environmental, financial and the rest.' Last year, the agency said it was considering lowering the 60mph speed limit on the Acle Straight to 50mph, and introducing speed cameras. Mr Challis said the scientists commissioned for the study had to work according to guidance from government advisors Natural England. He explained: 'We have to wait until the summer to find out results of the study and then wait for Natural England to see if the snails are moveable, before we find out what the future holds.' Licenses to manage ditches inhabited by the snails have been temporarily suspended by Natural England due to what it called a 'recently advanced... understanding of little whirlpool ramshorn snail ecology'. The Acle Straight is notorious as an accident blackspot and calls to dual the road have been made for several years Locals are concerned that drivers who come off the single carriageway will find themselves in the marshes on either side Work has already started on dualling a number of other sections of the A47 at a cost of 300 million. Campaigners have long called for the Acle Straight to be included because it is considered particularly dangerous. Cars involved in crashes can end up submerged in the water-filled dykes next to the carriageway. The A47 Alliance hope to build a strong case for the project, to persuade the government to fund the required upgrade. It is the second huge road project in the region to run into problems as a result of wildlife and concerns from Natural England. The organisation has effectively vetoed the council's flagship Western Link road bypass to the west of Norwich because of the presence of rare and protected Barbastelle bats along the proposed route. The 3.9-mile road, which would connect the Norwich Northern Distributor Road to the A47 near Honingham, has long been a priority of the Tory-run county council. But Natural England has objected to the 274million project due to the potential impact on the bats. It has said it will not award a licence which would be required to disrupt or harm to build the road. Environmental concerns have also led to lengthy and costly delays to the other A47 improvement schemes after a former Green Party councillor Andrew Boswell launched a series of legal challenges. Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer singled out Mr Boswell's campaign this week, saying that the challenges had wasted years of court time and cost taxpayers tens of millions of pounds. The Government has pledged to tear up rules on legal challenges blocking major infrastructure progress as Labour tries to encourage greater investment in Britain. An 83-year-old man has been charged with murdering his wife, 84, who was found dead in her home. Officers were called to a property in Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, just after 1.40pm on Thursday, after reports that a woman had been injured. Margaret Worby was pronounced dead at the scene, Bedfordshire Police said. The force has since confirmed that they were husband and wife. Roger Worby, of Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable, was charged with murder and appeared at Luton Magistrates' Court on Saturday. He has been remanded into custody and will next appear at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday, the force added. A spokesman for Bedfordshire Police said: 'A man has been charged with the murder of 84-year-old Margaret Worby, who was found dead in her home in Dunstable, Beds., on January 23. Officers were called to a property in Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, just after 1.40pm on Thursday, after reports that a woman had been injured He has been remanded into custody and will next appear at Luton Crown Court on Tuesday, the force said 'Officers were called to a property in Kingsbury Avenue just after 1:40pm after reports that a woman had sustained injuries. 'Emergency services attended but she was pronounced dead at the scene. 'Roger Worby, aged 83 years, of Kingsbury Avenue, Dunstable, has been charged with murder in connection with the investigation, and appeared at Luton Magistrate's Court today/this morning (Sat).' When President Trump took to the podium on inauguration night after a whirlwind of balls and parades, there were two women he wanted to highlight. The first, as expected, was the First Lady, who stood adoringly next to him in a mesmerizing black and white gown. But it was his telling compliment about the second that reveals more about America's future than many would have realized at the time. Turning to Vice President JD Vance, Trump said comedically of him: 'The only one smarter [than him] is his wife. 'I would have chosen her [as my VP] but somehow the line of succession didn't work that way.' He was referring to Usha Chilukuri Vance, the modest but formidable force behind him. Indeed many say Usha, who attended Yale and Cambridge before launching a stellar law career, is the secret reason for her husband's meteoric rise. Like her husband's, Usha's background is one of humble beginnings and hard work. Usha Vance is the secret weapon and guiding voice that has helped her husband's meteoric rise Her parents immigrated to America from India in the 1970s and both work as professors. They raised her in San Diego in a Hindu household where studying was top of the agenda. It paid off - Usha went on to study at Yale Law, where she met JD. He referred to her in his book Hillbilly Elegy as his 'Yale spirit guide' and the 'supersmart daughter of two immigrants.' While he was the polished product of years in the Marines, Usha was a beautiful and studious brainiac. She was the editor of the Yale Law Journal, managing editor of the Yale Journal of Law and Technology, and the proud recipient of the Gales Scholarship, a ferociously competitive program that requires candidates to demonstrate 'outstanding intellectual ability.' While she and JD were falling quickly in love, she took a break from Yale for a brief period to study in England at the equally prestigious University of Cambridge. Today, her old classmates watch slack-jawed as she ascends to American greatness. Usha Chilukuri's 11th grade yearbook picture For back then, Usha was far from a conservative. 'She generally fitted in with the Gates Cambridge community-scholarly, left-leaning, cosmopolitan, committed to improving the world,' one fellow Gates scholar recalled to The Telegraph. 'I certainly don't remember any indication whatsoever that she harbored any far-right political views or would tolerate somebody who did. 'Her current position has been surprising to many in the Gates community that I've talked to about it.' Another fellow Cambridge student who overlapped with her said she'd been incredibly proud of Vance, who had recently published his book, Hillbilly Elegy. 'She was really proud of him and wanted us to know his story. I read Hillbilly Elegy right away on her recommendation and was very impacted by it,' they said. After her brief study at Cambridge, Usha returned to the US where she climbed the clerkship ladder, starting with District Judge Amul Thapar in Eastern Kentucky. She continued on to Judge Brett Kavanaugh on the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit and then Chief Justice John Roberts of the Supreme Court. JD and Usha married soon after they graduated from Yale Law in 2014 Usha has been praised for her modesty and brightness. She eschews the limelight - but is always on hand for her husband Usha holds the couple's toddler daughter Mirabel at the inaugural parade inside the Capitol One Arena She and Vance married in Kentucky in 2014, one year out of Yale Law School, and moved to San Francisco in 2015. It was then that their political careers took off. Vance began working for conservative venture capitalist Peter Thiel at his Mithril Capital investment firm. Usha was an associate at Munger, Tolles & Olson, where she was a civil litigator for clients like Disney and colleagues remembered her as moderate. The firm was called 'a top contender in the cool, woke category' by American Lawyer in 2019 and touts its DEI credentials and its welcoming attitude to 'intersex, transgender, non-binary and gender non-conforming people' on its website. The liberal notions peppered throughout her past include support for Hillary Clinton and climate change initiatives. Usha was said to have been appalled by the January 6 Capitol riot and also criticized Trump's role in the riots. Friends told The Washington Post that her support for the now President was shocking, as she had watched the insurrection with horror and revulsion. Yet, they have also said Usha has typically appeared moderate, apolitical and more interested in the technical aspects of her work and study. Vance made a sharp turn in his beliefs in 2022, when he began to run for senate. Welcome to MAGALAND: Insider Trump's Second 100 Days - The podcast bringing you the latest news and gossip from the White House. Listen here. Vance at Mar-a-Lago with the couple's two children. He is tipped as the favorite for the 2028 Republican nomination Republican strategist Jai Chabria, who worked on Vance's campaign, insisted that just as Vance's stance has changed, so has Usha's. 'Usha has had a similar shift in views and fully supports Donald Trump and her husband and will do whatever she can to ensure their victory this November,' he said. From wiping the floor with Tim Walz at the Vice Presidential debate to masterfully greasing audiences with his slick appearances, Vance has become a fast-favorite for the 2028 Republican ticket. His wife's influence over his chances is evidently not lost on him. 'If I get a little too cocky or a little too proud, I just remind myself that she's way more accomplished than I,' he told Megyn Kelly in a podcast interview in 2020. 'I'm one of those guys who really benefits from having sort of a powerful female voice over his left shoulder saying, "Don't do this, do that,".' While Usha was heavily involved in Vance's campaign trail but always stayed 'out of the spotlight.' Many of her friends were shocked by Usha actively supporting Trump and her husband as they make inflammatory statements. Vance was already being set up to run along the campaign trail in Ohio just weeks ahead of the election in November. Like her husband, Usha - strategists say - took a sharp right turn in her politics as she matured At the time, Donald Trump Jr said: 'We are getting four more years of Trump and then eight years of JD Vance!' Many Republican politicians, strategists and pundits also agree that Vance is a clear likely frontrunner for the next Republican President. On Monday, President Trump praised the pair by adding: 'She's great and he's great. 'This is a great, beautiful couple.' The President's support, not only for Vance but also his strong admiration for Usha, greatly bolsters Vance's potential for success come 2028. And Usha, who is happier 'out of the spotlight' and focusing on motherhood, is expected to continue to be Vance's political guide whispering words of wisdom over his shoulder. For the latest White House gossip and news, listen to new politics podcast, Welcome to MAGAland: Insider Trump's Second 100 Day's. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Holly Willoughby has broken her silence on her terrifying experience at the hands of a security guard stalker who was preparing to kidnap, rape and kill her - and how her family gave her the strength to return to TV. Gavin Plumb, 37, is serving life in prison with a minimum term of 16 years after he concocted a sick and twisted plot to find like-minded men who would help him stage a 'home invasion' at the star's house. The details of the plan were so meticulous, so brutal and horrifying, that police and prosecutors alike were in no doubt that Plumb intended to make his twisted fantasies a reality - and saw fit to lock him away. Mother-of-three Holly, 43, has given her first interview in more than a year after taking time out of the public eye to recover from the trauma of Plumb's trial - and a This Morning scandal that threatened to torpedo her career. Breaking down in tears at times, she said the last year had been 's*** for all of us' - her husband Dan Baldwin, sons Harry, 15, and Chester, 10, and daughter Belle, 13. But having taken time away to regather her strength, the former CITV and CBBC children's presenter is slowly returning to our screens - from a low-key appearance at the NTAs to the resumption of her presenting duties on Dancing On Ice. She is also set to appear in Netflix's Celebrity Bear Hunt, a game show akin to I'm A Celebrity! on steroids that sees celebrities put through their paces against real crocodiles and snakes while being hunted down by adventurer Bear Grylls. Plumb was jailed in July 2024 after being found guilty of soliciting murder, and encouraging or assisting kidnap and encouraging or assisting rape. Holly Willoughby has broken her silence on how she was terrifying stalked by a would-be kidnapper who planned to abduct, rape and kill her The veteran presenter said she had been grateful for the strength offered by her family as she took time away from work (pictured with husband Dan Baldwin) She is set to appear in Celebrity Bear Hunt alongside adventurer Bear Grylls on Netflix next month Holly bravely waived her right to anonymity - which she had as a victim of a sexual offence on the charge of encouraging or assisting rape - so the full sordid details of his plot could be made public. Shortly after Plumb was arrested in October 2023, she announced her departure from This Morning after 14 years. Her time on the show, as a viewers' darling on the ITV sofa, had been overshadowed in the months prior by the sudden departure of Philip Schofield after it emerged he'd had an affair with a junior colleague. Leaving the show, she said, had been 'simple and easy' amidst the storm of being stalked. And speaking to The Sunday Times, she said the last year had been 'a tough one... there's no way of sugar-coating it (but) Im healthy and Im happy. 'Ive got a wonderful husband and children and family, Ive got great friends. (I chose) to positively move forward and rely on all those people the police, the court, the judge, the jury all those people to do their role. Thats what I had to do.' She added that it 'wasn't an option' to let the situation consume her - and that she had been grateful for the time she had taken away from television because it meant she was able to do more with her family, such as attending school assemblies. And she said she had concluded she was made of 'quite tough stuff', as borne out by how she has recovered following the Plumb saga. Essex Police had described Plumb as a 'dangerous sexual predator' who had been hatching a plot to kidnap Holly since 2021, downloading thousands of images of her and gaining detailed knowledge of her movements. The security guard had previous convictions for kidnap and attempted kidnap and had purchased metal cable ties, ropes and chloroform as part of his plan. Holly Willoughby left This Morning after Plumb's arrest - which came months after Philip Schofield quit the show after an affair with a junior colleague was exposed Holly Willoughby pictured with her husband and children. She has said she was grateful for the time away from TV to spend more time with her family She has since returned to TV - resuming presenting duties on Dancing On Ice, alongside Stephen Mulhern He had joined a Kik messaging chat called 'Abduct Lovers' that was packed with twisted individuals with an interest in kidnapping, raping and murdering people, including celebrities. He was snared after an undercover American police officer joined the group - and was recruited by an unknowing Plumb for his barbaric plot to abduct and kill the beloved presenter. Upon his arrest, police found he had downloaded millions of images - including deepfaked pornographic images of Holly - and had conspired to restrain her children and use them as leverage to control her. Mr Justice Murray, sentencing him to three life sentences, said the monstrous creep's plans were nothing short of credible. 'The plan (was) to kidnap and falsely imprison her for the principal purpose of raping and otherwise sexually abusing her over a sustained period of time in ways that would have been particularly sadistic, brutal, and degrading,' he said. He told the would-be rapist: 'Over a number of years, you pursued an unhealthy sexual obsession with Holly Willoughby that led you ultimately to plan over a number of years to kidnap, rape, and murder her. 'You had previously been convicted of terrifying offences involving the threat of sexual violence against four different young women. I found you to be dangerous.' Serving his minimum term is no guarantee of release. If he is ever paroled, Plumb will be subject to licence conditions until the day he dies. Senior investigating officer DCI Greg Wood said at the time: 'He is no fantasist - he's a calculated, violent, sexual predator who has spent his adult life inflicting or plotting to inflict harm on women.' President Donald Trump took the stage in Las Vegas Saturday as part of victory lap around the country, keeping up a rapid pace of announcements, hirings, and firings in his first week back in office. Crowds waited hours for a glimpse of the president at the Circa Resort & Casino. Trump took to the stage at around 12.30pm PST to tell his fans how he planned to revolutionize their lives with his overhaul on taxing tips. Among those there to listen was Oathes Keeper founder Stewart Rhodes, recently released from prison by Trump. Rhodes is banned from Washington and the Capitol for his role in the January 6 riot. Trump kicked off Saturday's celebration by thanking the people of Nevada for electing him so overwhelmingly in November. 'The only Republican win of this state in decades... and it was a landslide. We had a big win and an early win... it was a bad signal for the Democrats.' Trump's promise to remove tax on tips was such an attractive promise to voters that Kamala Harris quickly adopted it. Nowhere is it more welcome than in Sin City, entirely propped up by service workers. US President Donald Trump arrives to speak on his policy to end tax on tips in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 25, 2025 Among those there to listen was Oathes Keeper founder Stewart Rhodes, recently released from prison by Trump, was among those there to listen The next days were a whirlwind of activity, as he signed dozens of executive orders and laid out his America First agenda to an international audience of executives and world leaders in Davos. His most eye-catching move was to pardon 150o supporters convicted for their role in the Jan 6 assault on the Capitol. Trump's allies compare his audacious first week with a special forces raid designed to knock enemies off balance. On Friday, he left aboard Air Force One for his first trip of his second presidency. He toured an area of North Carolina devastated last year by Hurricane Helene, met families who lost their homes and floated the idea of disbanding the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Then it was on to enemy territory, with a swing west to California where he met Democratic officials and toured a neighborhood razed by wildfires. DailyMail.com traveled aboard Air Force One with the president. Aides handed out a four-page dossier of his achievements in the first 100 hours. His Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said: This president has done more in 100 hours than his predecessor Biden did in the first 100 days President Donald Trump talks with California Gov. Gavin Newsom after arriving on Air Force One at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, on Friday Trump spoke with residents as he toured a fire-affected area in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles 'President Trump has taken more than 300 executive actions, he has signed tens of executive orders on the economy, on our border. 'He took 10 very strong actions on day one to secure the southern border, launch the largest mass deportation operation in American history which as you know is now under way.' There was more good news for Trump as he arrived in Las Vegas on Friday night. Pete Hegseth, his controversial pick for secretary of defense, was confirmed in the post after Vice President J.D. Vance cast the deciding vote. 'He'll be a very good secretary of defense,' said Trump earlier. He is due to spend the rest of the weekend at his Doral Club in Miami. It's the idyllic village celebrated for its picturesque natural beauty and famed as one of Scotlands most popular visitor destinations. However, a furious row in Luss over its Hot Tottie sauna is threatening a split among locals, amid astonishing complaints over naked people in the streets, parking chaos and even allegations of sinister poison pen letters. The outdoor steam room opened last year on the banks of Loch Lomond and quickly became a go-to spot for customers, many from neighbouring towns such as Balloch or Dumbarton. However, problems soon arose, its claimed, over issues such as parking, while the sauna also operated without planning permission. Locals have also cited sauna users being spotted completely naked in and around the area, with many also said to be using their cars as changing rooms. The issue has become a major topic at local community council meetings, with feelings running high and one recent discussion understood to have become extremely heated. And, in a sinister development, there have been allegations of poison pen letters being posted to locals. Sources have suggested that police will attend an upcoming meeting of Luss and Arden community council. One local said: This has become a huge issue and its threatening to spiral. The village of Luss beside Loch Lomond is celebrated for its picturesque natural beauty. The Hot Tottie saunas on the shore of Loch Lomond have sparked concern among locals. Residents are up in arms over the cabin on the loch and claim to have seen people naked. There is talk that poison pen letters have been received by some people, and thats not the sort of thing you wish to see in a village like this. The problem is that the actual population of Luss is quite small, around 400, but the number of visitors is huge, and it leads to tensions over things like parking. Luss was the setting for long-running television drama Take the High Road, and the source added: You do wonder what Mrs Mack would have made of it. Some of the other things have been out of the ordinary, with people spotted wearing robes, or without robes, and thats not on really. One objector to the saunas retrospective planning permission application to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority said: I know its hard to believe, but yet again recently I came home to find people changing out of wet clothes in the street in front of my house, naked. Its not unknown for me to look out my kitchen window and see naked people changing in the street beside their cars. My biggest concern is that children live in this village. Its unacceptable behaviour. We feel rather intimidated and dont feel free to wander where people are having a sauna. Luss is a conservation village and is in grave danger of being destroyed by commercialism. A submission by Luss community council convener Alison Charters added: The siting of the sauna on the south beach will lead to a substantial increase in commercial activity in an otherwise relatively peaceful, scenic and historic setting. This proposal seems part of a scheme to significantly increase commercial activity of this relatively quiet area which will benefit only a few but will be significantly detrimental to residents. A weekend seat at Hot Tottie costs 15 per hour, while a one-hour private session is 100. The view from the outdoor sauna is stunning. Credit: Instagram/Theodora Van Duin. The saunas are a big topic at community council meetings, with talks becoming 'heated'. Owners Kieran Izzett (left) and Conlan Nimmo. Credit Instagram/Theodora Van Duin. The operators cite its idyllic location and state: Our sauna is more than just a place to sweat it out. Its a scenic retreat you wont want to leave. While a small number of people have strongly objected, most submissions have been in favour. One said: The owners spoke at the community council expressing their desire to work with everyone and be a positive addition to the village. The sauna is on the beach, tucked away in between trees, quite some distance from any residential properties. I hope you grant planning permission. Another supporter said: This initiative will bring a unique and valuable service to the area, promoting relaxation and wellbeing for the community. Hot Tottie co-owner Kieran Izzett said: We started up as a chance to bring our dream to reality for everyone, and our customers love the sauna. People love getting back to nature, and thats all we want to promote without causing issues or fuss. Police sources said officers were aware of tensions over the issue but its understood there is no formal police involvement just now. A spokesman for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority said: A retrospective planning application for the change of use of land for the siting of a mobile sauna cabin and storage shed at Luss is under review. At this stage, we are unable to provide specific details regarding the timeline for a decision. SNP ministers are under fresh pressure to launch a new Scottish child abuse inquiry amid claims of a UK-wide conspiracy of silence over grooming gangs. Whistleblowers have been fighting for a Scottish Government-led investigation into the exploitation of children by teachers and council workers as well as organised crime syndicates since 2022. Led by former SNP vice education convener for Edinburgh council Alison Dickie, ex-Labour Edinburgh councillor Bill Cook, whistleblower representative Christine Scott and teacher and independent councillor Neil McLennan, they have shared harrowing examples of grooming taking place on Scotlands streets. These include children being showered with affection and gifts as well as youngsters having to wear extra layers of clothing to meet social workers to protect themselves from being touched. The group has also highlighted a serious and organised crime operation in Edinburgh with links to England, which they claim has been supported by public funds and named professionals. And it has hit out at efforts to cover up for perpetrators by public bodies, the mishandling of complaints and the harassment and intimidation of those who raise concerns. In October 2022, the group lodged a petition with the Scottish Parliament to demand a fresh inquiry into serial child abuse in Scotland and called for the installation of a new independent national whistleblowing officer. Before their petition being discussed at Holyrood on February 5, it said: Interest in our more than two-year long petition has spiked in response to recent and wider coverage of safeguarding failures especially in England. Former SNP councillor Alison Dickie is among those who submitted a petition to Parliament. Children have been showered with affection and gifts by those in positions of authority. At the same time, voices in Scotland raising safeguarding concerns still struggle to be heard. It added: From the outset, one key question has driven our petitions calls: how can we have confidence in child safeguarding or the effectiveness of any improvements when there is still doubt about the mishandling of past and present child abuse and child protection concerns and the personnel and systems that may still be in place? We are increasingly concerned that the cases brought to our attention are only a snapshot of the safeguarding reality. The groups premise for a probe would differ from the current Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, whose remit is only to look at the treatment of youngsters in care. If MSPs agree to a new inquiry, allegations from Edinburgh, East Lothian, Borders and Aberdeenshire councils and the General Teaching Council for Scotland would be investigated. In a briefing note which will be sent to MSPs tomorrow ahead of the petition being discussed by the citizen participation and public petitions committee, the group wrote: The tragic human cost of safeguarding failures is incalculable. The lost childhoods, the anguish and trauma simply cant be quantified. As a society we should be moved to take effective action simply to ensure the safeguarding of our children The Scottish Government said: The minister for Children, Young People and the Promise recently met with the petitioners and committed to looking into their requests in the coming months. Authorities are investigating the cruel abandonment of an injured English Bulldog in a city alleyway earlier this week. On Tuesday, January 22nd, at approximately 8:15 a.m., a concerned citizen reported finding a distressed female Bulldog, white with tan markings, alone and suffering in an alley in DeSoto, Texas. Security camera footage later revealed that the dog was abandoned at around 6:44 a.m. The video shows a silver Chrysler 300, identifiable by its black rims and a dent on the passenger-side door, stopping in the alleyway. The driver then callously left the vulnerable animal behind and drove away. Responding to the call, Animal Control Officers #429 and #428 found the dog in a horrific state severely emaciated, covered in urine and feces. The dog was immediately transported to the local animal shelter, TCAS, for urgent veterinary care. Veterinarians discovered a serious infection and a severe ulcerated abscess on the dog's right eye, which had to be surgically removed. Authorities are investigating the cruel abandonment of an injured English Bulldog in a city alleyway earlier this week Security footage revealed that the dog was left alone at approximately 6:44 a.m. by the driver of a silver Chrysler 300, easily recognizable by its black rims and a dent on the passenger-side door The dog is currently receiving treatment for the infection with antibiotics and pain medication. A DeSoto police spokesperson told FOX 4 that once the dog recovers, she will be placed in the care of a reputable animal rescue organization for rehabilitation and eventual adoption. DeSoto Police and Animal Control are urging the public to come forward with any information about the vehicle, the suspect, or the incident. 'No animal deserves to be treated this way,' police said in a post on Facebook. 'And we want to ensure that this individual is held accountable.' Police say the driver faces animal cruelty charges, which could result in a third-degree felony conviction. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the DeSoto Police Department or DeSoto Animal Control. Unfortunately, animal abandonment is not all that uncommon. A disturbing incident of animal abandonment occurred on New Year's Day when an Arizona woman was caught on camera dragging her dog through the Pinal County Animal Care and Control parking lot. The dog is currently receiving treatment for the infection with antibiotics and pain medication Police say the driver faces animal cruelty charges, which could result in a third-degree felony conviction The woman, wearing a bright blue sweatshirt, had arrived at the Casa Grande shelter hoping to surrender her pet. However, upon learning that the shelter was not yet open and that an appointment was required, she became frustrated and abandoned the dog in the parking lot. As the woman drove away in her black sedan, the frightened dog chased after the vehicle, narrowly escaping being struck by a car while crossing a busy road. Animal care workers, who had reviewed surveillance footage of the incident, immediately launched a search for the terrified dog. After a day of searching, they were able to safely capture him. The shelter noted that the dog was currently "very shut down and terrified" and would require time to decompress before becoming available for adoption. SNP ministers are privy to the names and titles of the ultra-secret police squad tasked with investigating the partys finances, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. Both the former first minister Nicola Sturgeon and ex-SNP treasurer Colin Beattie remain under police investigation, despite both being released without charge after their arrests in 2023. Ms Sturgeons estranged husband and former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell was charged in connection with embezzlement in April last year and has been banned from selling his property by the proceeds of crime unit. Now, after a protracted freedom of information battle, The Mail on Sunday can reveal the SNP government knows who was put in charge of investigating the trio. It comes as earlier this month, Justice Secretary Angela Constance refused to say if it knew the names and titles of the team involved. Police Scotland has insisted it did not hand over the information. It is understood that the Scottish Government holds the names and titles of some of the detectives because serving officials have been contacted for statements and to arrange meetings. Last night, Scottish Conservative MSP Craig Hoy said: The SNP have finally admitted what many suspected all along - that they are privy to information surrounding this long running case. A luxury campervan was seized as part of the Operation Branchform probe into SNP finances. Police dramatically raided Peter Murrell and Nicola Sturgeon's home in Uddingston, Glasgow. This is despite the SNP justice secretarys lack of transparency to me in Holyrood earlier this month. It is time for SNP ministers to come clean with Scots about what knowledge they have, and how they came to discover it, rather than continuing to evade serious questions. The 11-strong team of specialist officers are scrutinising SNP spending, including whether it diverted independence funds raised by the public on a 110,000 campervan and a luxury Jaguar car. Concerns that senior members of the government knew the identities and titles of the Operation Branchform team were first raised by the Scottish Conservatives at the end of last year. After asking the government what they knew - and when - via a freedom of information request, the party received a response which claimed that answering the questions would substantially prejudice the investigation. Unimpressed by the answer, Mr Hoy wrote to ministers directly to ask them again. On January 8, Ms Constance responded during a Holyrood chamber session and said: That matter is subject to an on-going police investigation and, as such, it would not be appropriate to comment. Mr Hoy shot back: Can the minister explain why revealing the specific date on which officers identities could have become known would risk prejudicing the police probe? If the Government has nothing to hide, why would it not confirm how it might have secured the identities of the investigating officers if, indeed, it is in receipt of them? to which under-pressure Ms Constance claimed she had nothing further to add. Behind the scenes however, the Scottish Conservatives requested a review of their freedom of information response. It came back saying that having re-examined the small amount of information that was withheld it was concluded that the exemption [in freedom of information law] was correctly applied. Still not satisfied, they asked for further clarification. Finally, after a weeks-long battle for answers, the Scottish Government confirmed it holds a small amount of information in relation to the names and titles of officers involved in Operation Branchform. A Police Scotland spokesman said: We have not provided a list of the names of officers involved in the investigation. A Scottish Government spokesman said: This is a live investigation and it would be inappropriate to comment. SNP membership has plunged to its lowest in a decade after 65,000 supporters abandoned the party, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. In a hammer blow to First Minister John Swinney before next years Holyrood election, internal documents suggest its membership is set to plummet to about 60,000 for the first time since the referendum. That figure is more than 65,000 short of the 125,000-strong membership the SNP boasted of in 2019, a fall of more than half. It is also more than 30,000 fewer than at the end of 2014 when it had just over 93,000 members. The party has been haemorrhaging paid-up supporters since the latter days of Nicola Sturgeons leadership, which was marred by infighting and controversy. It also remains at the centre of a police fraud probe that led to former chief executive Peter Murrell being charged with embezzlement and banned from selling property by the proceeds of crime unit. And in yet more evidence of the chaos and turmoil at the top of the SNP, the MoS can disclose: The party faced its third deficit on the trot in 2023, but its accounts showed a surplus of 660,000 because HQ raided branch offices for cash. It spent less than half its usual budget to run its Westminster election campaign amid concerns over its financial health. Branches will get less money this year as the party tries to build a Holyrood 2026 war-chest. From next month, MSPs will pay more from their salaries into the centralised party coffers. MPs face the same hike as seat losses at the general election means the SNP is out of pocket by more than 100,000 in parliamentary levies. Membership peaked in 2019 but declined in the later years of Nicola Sturgeon's leadership. First Minister John Swinney has attempted to stabilise the blood-letting of members. A secret financial report written by treasurer Stuart McDonald and obtained by this newspaper painted a stark picture of a party struggling for survival. The SNPs most significant challenge, Mr McDonald claimed, was falling membership levels. The former MP said: Since peak membership numbers in 2018/2019, membership numbers have approximately halved. Membership income in 2023 was down by almost 25 per cent compared to peak membership income in 2015, and it has continued to fall throughout 2024. He added: Colleagues will recall our published membership as at June 1 of this year [2024] was 64,525 and this trend both in terms of numbers and income has continued into the second half of the year. With losses of more than 4,000 members a year since 2023, a continuation of that trend means it is likely the party will have only 60,000 paid-up backers this year. Mr McDonald also admitted the 2023 accounts only returned a surplus of 660,000 because HQ took money from branches to keep the party in the black, otherwise that would have been our third deficit on the trot, albeit a small one. He continued: A smaller membership has a knock-on impact on other funding streams such as donations and fundraising. The Mail on Sunday has told how HQ has already had to make enormous cuts to staff in a bid to save hundreds of thousands of pounds. We can today reveal that, from February, Nationalist MSPs will pay extra to the party coffers, in the form of a 3,900 sum or 4.3 per cent of their salary whichever is higher, the document said. MPs face the same hike, as fewer SNP returns at the ballot box in July means the party is out of pocket by more than 100,000 that it used to earn in parliamentary levies. The Nationalists have already lost out on around 1million in public funds - known as short money - from Westminster authorities after their heavy general election defeat which saw MP numbers reduced from 48 in 2019 to nine. Speculation swirled in the run up to the vote that the party was struggling to fund its campaign - concerns Mr Swinney dismissed. Yet the report shows that the SNP spent less than half its usual budget at the UK general election last year, compared to previous general election years in 2017 and 2019. In 2017, they spent 1,538,464 and in 2019 they spent 1,557,871, but in 2024, they spent 746,771. The party has said it will also reduce the amount of money going to branches from overall membership income from 25 per cent to 15 per cent to save money. Mr McDonald wrote: The branch dividend system has been very important for branches since its introduction but it is significantly easier to operate when funds are plentiful, than when times are more challenging for the party centrally. Membership income is its one stable and regular form of income, as well as its largest. When that is falling, allocating 25 per cent of it to branches can become a significant undertaking. With no election scheduled for 2025, I believe it wise to reduce that to 15 per cent for a period, while we seek to ensure the partys finances are in the best shape possible for 2026. An SNP spokesman said: 'The SNP is the largest political party in Scotland, with 64,525 members as of June 2024 - a membership greater than all other parties combined. 'As the only political party in Scotland that regularly releases its membership figures, we will do so again in due course.' Fears are growing for a missing 14-year-old girl last seen in a red weather alert area before Storm Eowyn hit. Police are searching for Chloe Ellis, from Livingston, Scotland, who has not been seen since Thursday January 23. The last reported sighting of Chloe was at around 8.25am that day, in the Deans area of the West Lothian town. She is described as 5ft 5ins with long brown hair, and was wearing a black leather jacket. An urgent appeal for information has been launched due to concern for her welfare, Edinburgh Live reported. There have been no reports of contact from the 14-year-old amid the high winds and inclement weather, with Livingston covered by the Met Office red weather warning. Police Sergeant John Watson said: 'We are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of Chloe and would ask if anyone who knows her whereabouts to get in contact with us. 'She is known to frequent Glasgow, Edinburgh, Livingston and Bathgate. She may have travelled to the Dunbar area.' Chloe Ellis, 14, from Livingston, Scotland, was last seen on Thursday January 23 in a red weather alert area Livingston, situated 20 miles west of Edinburgh, was among the areas of Scotland hit hardest by Storm Eowyn Vehicles tentatively make their way along the seafront as huge waves crash over the road, as Storm Eowyn hits Oban on the west coast of Scotland Anyone with any information about Chloe is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0949 of 23 January, 2025. Storm Eowyn's first confirmed victim was Kacper Dudek, 20. He was killed in County Donegal, Republic of Ireland, in the early hours of Friday morning after the record-breaking high winds blew a tree down on to his car. He had already performed a U-turn and was trying to flee a danger area when the horrifying accident happened as he was on the phone to his father. The 20-year-old was driving in convoy with a friend after being let out early from their night shifts when he had to turn his car around, after coming across a road accident, the Mirror reported. Police and local emergency services attended the scene after the tree fell on the car at around 5.30am in Feddyglass, Raphoe, County Donegal, in the north-west of the Republic. Mr Dudek, who was born in Poland but raised in nearby Lifford, Donegal, died at the scene. Tributes on social media called Mr Dudek a 'lovely decent young fella' who was 'trying to make a life for himself'. Kacper Dudek was on the phone to his father when his car was crushed by the tree, which was uprooted in last night's record-breaking winds Workers start to remove a fallen tree which crashed through the wall of Phoenix Park and on to Blackhorse Avenue in Dublin, only a few kilometres west of the city centre Donald Trump celebrated the confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security with a simple three word message to the country - America is back. Noem was confirmed with a majority of 59 to 34 on Saturday in a rare weekend vote. She replaces the widely criticized Alejandro Mayorkas, who was largely blamed for the migrant crisis that exploded across the country during Biden's time in office. Among those who confirmed Noem's appointment today was Democratic Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman. Noem was confirmed with a majority of 59 to 34 on Saturday in a rare weekend vote. Donald Trump celebrated the confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security with a simple three word message to the country - America is back Other Democrats included Tim Kaine of Virginia, Elissa Slotkin of Michigan and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire. Noem is the fourth member of President Trump's cabinet to be confirmed. She follows Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who was sworn in this morning in a ceremony attended by all seven of his children. Noem said of the appointment: 'Thank you, Mr President for the confidence in me to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security. I will work to make America SAFE again!' Thai detectives have detained the British husband of a woman found murdered in the Yorkshire Dales 21 years ago. David Armitage, 62, is being held by immigration officials in the town of Kanchanaburi over a problem with his visa, according to Thai media. The case of his wife Lamduan Seekanya puzzled police for nearly two decades after her semi-naked body was found in a stream at a Yorkshire Dales beauty spot, her murder has remained a riddle. For 15 years after she was discovered by ramblers, she was unidentified and was buried in a churchyard with only the name 'Lady of the Hills' inscribed on her gravestone. She was never reported missing by her husband. If Mr Armitage is deported, then the North Yorkshire police investigating the cold case will finally be able to speak to him about his wife. This comes just over a year after he refused to speak to police officers who had flown to Thailand in February 2023. He had agreed to speak to them but cancelled at the last minute. David Armitage, a British university lecturer, refused to meet British detectives who flew to Thailand this week to question him over the death of his Thai wife Lamduan Seekanya The body of his Thai wife Lamduan Seekanya (pictured), 36, was found semi-naked in a stream at a Yorkshire Dales beauty spot in 2004 - but her identity was unknown for a further 15 years "Should that occur, we will again make every effort to speak to him about the investigation. Read more about the North Yorkshire Police Cold Case Review Unit investigation here: https://t.co/qMEo5T3xxg North Yorkshire Police (@NYorksPolice) January 25, 2025 Lamduan's body was found at this spot by walkers in the Yorkshire Dales in September 2004. A ripped bra was found hanging off her arm. No one in the UK reported her missing and she was buried in a churchyard with only the name 'Lady of the Hills' inscribed on her gravestone Lamduan, 36, was living with David and their two young children at his parents' home in Burton-in-Kendal, Cumbria when she vanished in 2004. Her parents, the Seekanyas reported their daughter missing to Thai police a few weeks after her disappearance, but it is not believed that the information was passed onto UK authorities. Mr Armitage did not apparently file a missing person report about his wife. He told the couple's children that Lamduan had left him for another man, the family say. Joomsri believes that Mr Armitage could answer questions the family have about their daughter's final days, but say he has not been to visit them. From what Lamduan told her mother, she believes the Armitages' marriage was in trouble. Mr Armitage met his wife in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, where he was teaching English in 1990. They married within a few months and then moved to Britain, where their two children, George and Charlena, were born. Lamduan already had an older son, Khwan, from a previous marriage, who now lives in Belfast. Lamduan met Mr Armitage in 1990 while he was working as a teacher in Chiang Mai, Thailand. They moved to the UK and were living in Burton-in-Kendal, Cumbria, with his parents when she disappeared. The family are pictured outside their home in Rugby, Warwickshire After Lamduan's disappearance, Mr Armitage (pictured with his daughter Charlena) returned to Thailand, settling in Kanchanaburi near the Burmese border, where the David Lean classic movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai, was set Lamduan's mother Joomsri recalled that in 2016 Mr Armitage's son George (pictured with his father), arrived at her home hoping to make contact with his mother before his marriage. Joomsri said that she had not heard from his mother for years and feared she was dead After Lamduan's disappearance, Mr Armitage returned to Thailand, settling in Kanchanaburi near the Burmese border, where the David Lean classic movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai, was set. He teaches English for business at the city's Rajabhat University and has repeatedly denied any involvement in Lamduan's killing, despite a whispering campaign in some sections of the Thai media. Speaking to the media in 2019, he insisted: 'I didn't kill my wife. Absolutely not.' He acknowledged there had been insinuations about his involvement in the case in the Thai media, adding: 'I know the inferences are there but I'm just getting on with my life. It's been a long time.' He has also previously said he would cooperate with any investigation. She was discovered by walkers face down in a stream wearing just socks and jeans. A ripped bra hung from her left arm. A T-shirt was found nearby and no shoes were ever recovered. Detectives believe Lamduan was killed up to three weeks before her body was discovered The Seekanyas, Joomsri (right) and Buasa (left), reported their daughter missing to Thai police a few weeks after her disappearance in 2004, but heard nothing about her whereabouts Joomsri (pictured), 76, spoke to detectives from North Yorkshire who flew to Thailand about the case The advanced state of decomposition meant pathologists were unable to establish a cause of death but they did rule out stabbing, blunt force trauma and gunshot wounds. One possible cause was hypothermia, but despite the fact she was wearing such flimsy clothing and no shoes, police nevertheless decided her death was not suspicious. Medical experts discovered she was of south-east Asian origin and a coroner returned an open verdict. Her headstone, paid for by local people in Ribblesdale, reads: 'The Lady of the Hills. Found 20th Sept 2004. Name Not Known. Rest in Peace.' President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said the US has not stopped giving Ukraine military aid, amid fears newly inaugurated President Donald Trump could slash America's support package to Kyiv. Speaking at a press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Zelenskyy said he was 'focused on military aid, adding help from the US had 'not been stopped, thank God'. Ukraine currently relies on the US for around 40 per cent of its military needs. Zelenskyy did not clarify if humanitarian aid had been put on hold. It comes after newly sworn in US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he would pause foreign aid grants for 90 days. President Trump has repeatedly said he would not have allowed Russia's invasion of Ukraine to begin if he had been in office, although he was in office as fighting grew in the east of the country between Kyiv's forces and separatists aligned with Moscow. Vladmir Putin appeared to agree with his sentiments, saying during an interview the war could have been avoided had President Trump not been 'robbed of the election' in 2020. Describing his armed forces' full-scale invasion of their neighbour in February 2022 as a 'crisis', Putin told state media the horrific bloodshed that has blighted eastern Europe for almost three years would not have happened under a Trump presidency. 'I cannot but agree with him that if he had been president, if his victory had not been stolen from him in 2020, then perhaps there would not have been the crisis in Ukraine that arose in 2022,' the Russian president said. Ukraine currently relies on the US for around 40 per cent of its military needs (Pictured: Ukrainian soldiers of the 1st Separate Assault Battalion Da Vinci) President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said the US has not stopped giving Ukraine military aid President Trump has repeatedly said he would not have allowed Russia's invasion of Ukraine to begin if he had been in office Russian President Vladimir Putin described Trump as 'pragmatic and smart' in comments to state media He also described Trump as 'not only a smart person, but a pragmatic person'. It comes after Trump told Fox News earlier this week that Zelenskyy should have made a deal with the Russian leader to avoid conflict. Just a day beforehand, he threatened to impose stiff tariffs and sanctions against Russia if an agreement to end the fighting in Ukraine cannot be reached. Delivering the threat on his Truth Social platform, the President wrote: 'If we don't make a 'deal,' and soon, I have no other choice but to put high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States. But Trump's advisers have also hinted the steady stream of Western military aid to Ukraine could be shut off if Kyiv refuses to countenance a deal. In a somewhat inflammatory statement about the Ukrainian leader, Trump recently said Zelensky was 'no angel' and insisted he 'shouldn't have allowed this war to happen'. 'First of all, he's fighting a much bigger entity, okay, much bigger. When he was, you know, talking so brave... Zelensky was fighting a much bigger entity, much bigger, much more powerful,' Trump said. 'He shouldn't have done that, because we could have made a deal, and it would have been a deal... it would have been a nothing deal. I could have made that deal so easily,' Trump said. (FILES) Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) and US President Donald Trump are pictured before a meeting in Helsinki President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Trump Tower on September 27, 2024 A building lies in ruins after being hit by a Russian attack, on January 23, 2025 in Kostyantynivka, Ukraine An apartment building damaged during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the town of Vyshneve on January 2 Debris lies at a site of an apartment building damaged during a Russian drone strike Speaking in Kyiv on Saturday, Zelenskyy said he had enjoyed 'good meetings and conversations with President Trump' and that he believed the US leader would succeed in his desire to end the war. 'This can only be done with Ukraine, and otherwise it simply will not work because Russia does not want to end the war, and Ukraine does,' Zelenskyy said. With Trump stressing the need to quickly broker a peace deal, both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking battlefield successes to strengthen their negotiating positions ahead of any prospective talks. Russian forced have been waging an intense campaign to damage Ukraine's defences in the Donetsk region in a bid to weaken Kyiv's grip on eastern parts of the country for the past year. On Friday, Russia's Defence Ministry claimed its troops had fought their way into the centre of Velyka Novosilka. The claim has not yet been independently confirmed. It comes after three civilians died on Saturday following shelling in the Russian-occupied area of Ukraine's Kherson region, Government Vladimir Saldo said. He urged residents in Oleshky, which is close to the frontline in southern Ukraine, to stay in their homes to evacuate to bomb shelters. Russia also fired two missiles and 61 Shahed drones at Ukraine overnight on Saturday. Ukrainian air defences were able to shoot down both missiles and 46 drones, the air force said in a statement. Another 15 drones were unable to reach their intended targets due to countermeasures which were in place. The downed drones caused damage in the Kyiv, Cherkasy and Khmelnytskyi regions. Russia also struck Ukraine's eastern Kharkiv region with drones causing casualties and damage, local authorities said on Saturday. According to Mayor Ihor Terekhov, drones targeted the city's Shevchenkivskyi, Kyivskyi and Kholodnohirskyi districts. Russia used a Molniya drone - a weapon which has been developed and deployed by Russia - in the Shevchenkivskyi district, sparking a fire. The attacks disrupted the city's water and electricity supplies, the mayor said. Terekhov said the number of victims was still being determined, while Kharkiv's governor, Oleh Syniehubov, said three people, two women and a man, were injured in the strikes. This is the heroic moment a grandmother told her 14-year-old grandson to confess to a sickening crime that will likely put him behind bars for years. Jesse Stone, also known as 'Randy John,' from Reddick, Florida, was arrested in June after sexually assaulting a 91-year-old woman. He has been named publicly by police despite his age because he is being charged as an adult. Disturbing court documents reveal how he 'pounced' on his victim then punched her in the face. Stone denied the allegations repeatedly when confronted by police. But when alone with his grandmother in an interview room, she pressed him to tell the truth. Video of that emotional exchange has been released following his guilty plea. Jesse Stone, also known as 'Randy John,' from Reddick, Florida, was arrested in June after sexually assaulting a 91-year-old woman Stone tried to deny what he'd done in an interview with police. His disgusted grandmother, right, urged him to come clean It shows his grandmother, who has not been named publicly, urging him to come clean after lying to police. 'She deserves the truth to be told and you know it. Personally, I can't believe. This is a horrible thing... that's a horrible thing,' she said, but he insisted he wasn't capable of a crime such as this. 'It's hard for me to believe too. It's really hard for me to believe too that you would do a thing like this. But how many times have you been caught in lies?' the grandmother said. 'This woman deserves to have the truth, she deserves it and you know that.' Jesse Stone, 14, also known as Randy Stone 'Look at her! Look at her face!'' she demanded, pointing to evidence photos of the woman's injuries. The grandmother continued: 'I've never seen you hurt anybody. 'What the hell are you doing outside at that time of night, Randy John? It doesn't make any sense.' Despite his insistence on being an 'outdoorsy person,' she countered, 'You're not an outdoorsy person! You're a sit in front of the TV kind of guy! 'I hope and pray you did not do this to this woman. I hope and pray you did not do this because this is horrific. This is a human being and she deserves justice, she does.' 'If this were to happen to your sister, what would you do? If you know anything about this, Randy John, for her at least, if you care about her, tell the truth,' she before leaving the room. 'Tell the truth. Randy John, you've lied about stuff before.' It was then that Stone started to buckle. He admitted to visiting the victim's home previously. A DNA evidence match sealed his fate and he was arrested. Court records describe how around midnight, the unnamed victim saw a 'dark shadow' in the hallway of her house - before being detained in this detention center days later At earlier points in the view, he tried repeatedly to deny that he'd attacked the woman. 'It's impossible for my DNA to be on her underwear,' Stone insisted. The investigators then showed him a picture of the badly beaten victim. 'Oh my god, holy cow,' Stone's grandmother said, dismayed. 'We know what happened. What I want, in your own words, everything that went on that night. 'I know what happened and it's only going to help you for you to be honest with me about what happened,' the investigators pressed. Unspecified evidence seized from the scene helped as well, leading him to admit to his crimes. He's now set to be tried as an adult Stone, police said, didnt expect the victim to be awake when he broke into the home and panicked, leading him to attack her. While the confession itself is redacted, authorities confirmed that he admitted to viewing pornography on the victim's iPad prior to the assault. Stone, charged as an adult, pleaded guilty last year to two counts: sexual assault of a minor and burglary with battery. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods issued a detailed statement reflecting on the case and the 'unimaginable' nature of the case. 'It came as a shock that any individual would commit such an act on a 91-year-old, but it is truly disturbing when we see the young age of the arrestee,' the statement read. 'Although I firmly believe he should be held accountable for his crime, as a father, my compassion goes out to his family. 'Hopefully his arrest will lead to getting him help that prevents any further such acts.' He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 7th. An adorable four-year-old girl was tragically killed by a stray bullet from a nearby police shootout while she sat innocently inside a dentist's office on Wednesday. Rosalie Martin, 4, was killed in East Liverpool, Ohio after St. Clair Township Police responded to a call about a possibly suicidal man. Officers arrived at the scene around 2 pm to find Joseph Como, 30, walking alone in the roadway. When officers tried to have a conversation with the seemingly disturbed man, he opened fire 'almost immediately'. They fired back - fatally striking him. But nearby was Martin, who was with her family at the Dentistry for Children & Teens. The little girl was struck by a bullet in the crossfire. She was rushed to the hospital, where she later died. It remains unclear whether it was Como's bullet - or one of the cops' - that killed her. Rosalie Martin, 4, was killed in East Liverpool, Ohio after St. Clair Township Police responded to a call about a possibly suicidal man Officers arrived at the scene in East Liverpool around 2 pm to find a seemingly disturbed man, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, walking alone in the roadway It remains unclear as to who fired the bullet that fatally struck four-year-old Rosalie, however, the investigation into the officer-involved incident remains ongoing A St. Clair Township Police officer was also wounded in the horrific shooting. Officer Dakota Wetzel, 26, was struck in the head and was airlifted to a Pittsburgh's UPMC Presbyterian Hospital where he remains in intensive care. An update, posted later that day, said the injured officer, who has been with the department for over three years, was out of surgery and 'in stable condition,' but has 'a long way to go.' A St. Clair Township Police officer was also wounded in the horrific shooting. Officer Dakota Wetzel, 26, was struck in the head and was airlifted to a Pittsburgh's UPMC Presbyterian Hospital where he remains in intensive care Rosalie Martin, 4, was killed in the crossfire of police shootout in East Liverpool, Ohio after St. Clair Township Police responded to a call about a possibly suicidal man on Wednesday Wetzel's fiancee, Regan Lambert, has since shared a heartfelt message to Facebook. 'Unfortunately, I have thought about how I would have to handle this situation more times than I care to say. 'Those of you who know me know that I have quite a few law enforcement officers very near and dear to my heart. Dakota also happens to be the love of my life.' The distraught soon-to-be wife said she and her fiance had just mailed their wedding invitations a day earlier. 'I am forevermore indebted to God for sparing my HUSBAND - in a very short 170 days.' The police chief asked for prayers for 'my officer, and for the child that was involved in this incident as well.' 'Everyone at the St. Clair Township Police Department continues to pray for her family after her terribly tragic passing,' McKenzie said. Much of the surrounding community gathered for a vigil the day after the devastating loss to the mourn their fellow community member The St. Clair Police Department has since organized a fundraiser to help cover the medical and funeral costs for those involved in the January 22 tragedy. 'The Ohio FOP Foundation continues to raise money for both Detective Wetzel and Rosalie's family. Anyone interested in donating can do so with all donations being earmarked for the families,' the police chief added. Much of the surrounding community gathered for a vigil the day after the devastating loss to the mourn their fellow community member. 'It's just nice that everybody comes together and shares this, even though it's devastating. 'But, we can still come together as a community and be there for the families that have suffered,' said neighbor Joyce Sabatini. Elon Musk has backed Germany's radical right-wing AfD party at its latest rally, telling attendees that there's too much 'guilt' over the 'sins' of their 'great grandparents'. The billionaire made a surprise appearance during the AfD's (Alternative fuer Deutschland) election campaign event in Halle in eastern Germany on Saturday, voicing his support for the second time in as many weeks. 'It's good to be proud of German culture, German values, and not to lose that in some sort of multiculturalism that dilutes everything,' Musk, via video link, told the hall of 4,500 people alongside party leader Alice Weidel. Last week, the billionaire caused uproar after he made a gesture that drew online comparisons to a Nazi salute during US President Donald Trump's inauguration festivities. On Saturday, he said 'children should not be guilty of the sins of their parents, let alone their great grandparents,' apparently referring to Germany's Nazi past. 'There is too much focus on past guilt, and we need to move beyond that,' he said. As Musk made his appearance at the AfD rally, anti-far right campaigners were out in force with around 100,000 gathering around Berlin's Brandenburg gate and up to 20,000 in Cologne on Saturday ahead of the February 23 elections. At Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, participants lighted up their phones, blew whistles and sang anti-fascist songs, and in Cologne, protesters carried banners denouncing AfD. Tech billionaire Elon Musk speaks live via a video transmission during a speech by Alice Weidel, chancellor candidate of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party, at the AfD election campaign launch rally on January 25, 2025 in Halle, Germany 'It's good to be proud of German culture, German values, and not to lose that in some sort of multiculturalism that dilutes everything,' Musk, via video link, told the hall of 4,500 people alongside party leader Alice Weidel Participants stand with placards during a rally against the far right at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, 25 January 2025 Musk, who spoke of suppression of speech under Germany's government, has previously attacked German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on X. For his part, Scholz on Tuesday said he does not support freedom of speech when it is used for extreme-right views. Musk spoke in favour of voting for the far right party, saying: 'I'm very excited for the AfD, I think you're really the best hope for Germany fight for a great future for Germany,' he told onlookers. Weidel thanked him, said the Republicans were making America great again, and called on her supporters to make Germany great again. Earlier this month, Musk hosted Weidel in an interview on X, stirring concern about election meddling. Meanwhile, Musk's inflammatory messages on X are reportedly being examined by Government counter-extremism officers in the UK. The Home Office unit has ramped up the monitoring of the world richest man's posts in order to analyse the risk they pose to Britain, reported The Mirror earlier this month. A government source told the newspaper: 'We keep a close eye on how disinformation and hate can proliferate, including online.' Activists take part in a demonstration entitled 'We stand together! Sea of Lights Against a Shift to the Right' against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, January 25, 2025 Participants gather for a demonstration against a political shift to the right to stand together during a 'Sea of Lights for Democracy' in front of the landmark Brandenburg Gate in Berlin on January 25, 2025 The reported probe came after the Tesla owner launched a barrage of attacks on the Government on his X social media site. He has targeted Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other senior ministers over Labour's rejection of a new national inquiry into grooming gangs. The Financial Times reported on January 9 that Musk had held private talks with his allies about how to oust Sir Keir as PM by the next election. The South African-born businessman, a close ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, has also endorsed far-Right thug Tommy Robinson. Sir Keir has accused Musk of 'spreading lies and misinformation' with his posts to his 210million followers. While Musk used his platform to promote radical right-wing AfD, it is still coming in second place in pre-election polls behind an opposition bloc of Germany's center-right parties, the Union, led by Friedrich Merz. Merz said Friday that his party will bring motions to toughen migration policy - one of the main election issues - to parliament next week, a move seen risky in case the motions go to a vote and pass with the help of AfD. Merz had earlier vowed to bar people from entering the country without proper papers and to step up deportations if he is elected chancellor. People hold up their cell phones as they protest the far-right Alternative for Germany, or AfD party, and right-wing extremism in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025 Demonstration against the shift to the right under the motto 'We stand together' at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. With the 'sea of lights' more than 10000 people protest against a strengthening of the right-wing radical party AfD and other right-wing parties in Europe Those comments came after a knife attack in Aschaffenburg by a rejected asylum-seeker left a man and a 2-year-old boy dead and spilled over into the election campaign. Activists including the group calling itself Fridays for Future dubbed the Berlin rally the 'sea of light against the right turn.' They hope it will draw attention to the actions by the new administration of U.S. President Donald Trump and to the political lineup ahead of Germany's election. A protester in Cologne, Thomas Schneemann, said it was most important for him to 'stay united against the far right.' 'Especially after yesterday and what we heard from Friedrich Merz we have to stand together to fight the far right,' Schneemann said. The CIA has today revealed its belief that COVID-19 was likely leaked from a Chinese lab after years of denial under the Biden administration. A spokesperson for the agency said on Saturday that they now favor the lab theory. Officials said that there is no new evidence behind their shift in opinion - it is based on the same evidence they have been mulling over for months. 'CIA assesses with low confidence that a research-related origin of the COVID-19 pandemic is more likely than a natural origin based on the available body of reporting. 'CIA continues to assess that both research-related and natural origin scenarios of the COVID-19 pandemic remain plausible,' the agency said in an announcement on Saturday. The spokesperson added that they have 'low confidence in the judgement' and would continue to evaluate any new intelligence or relevant information. In announcing their shift in stance, the CIA joined the FBI and the Energy Department in identifying the cause of it as being a lab mishap in Wuhan, China. The Wuhan Institute of Virology has faced scrutiny over its research into bat coronaviruses and alleged lapses in security around the time the pandemic started. Vice President JD Vance swears in John Ratcliffe as CIA Director in the Vice Presidential ceremonial office in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House campus, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, in Washington This file photo taken on February 23, 2017 shows Chinese virologist Shi Zhengli inside the P4 laboratory in Wuhan, capital of China's Hubei province Under Biden and COVID czar Anthony Fauci, the government was adamant that the lab notion was nothing more than a conspiracy theory. John Ratcliffe, Trump's newly sworn-in CIA director, has long been convinced that the virus came from a lab. Ratcliffe testified before the House Select Subcommittee in 2023 that he didn't feel agencies were being fully truthful when it came to the origins of the virus. Speaking then, he said that he and other Trump officials had encountered 'illegitimate roadblocks' when looking into the cause of it. In an interview with Breitbart following his confirmation by the Senate on Friday, Ratcliffe said one of his first priorities was getting his agency to make a public assessment on the pandemic's origins. He said: 'One of the things that Ive talked about a lot is addressing the threat from China on a number of fronts, and that goes back to why a million Americans died and why the Central Intelligence Agency has been sitting on the sidelines for five years in not making an assessment about the origins of COVID. 'Thats a day-one thing for me. I've been on record as you know in saying I think our intelligence, our science, and our common sense all really dictate that the origins of COVID was a leak at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.' Former CIA Director William Burns had told analysts that the agency should express an opinion rather than remain neutral, but didn't express a preference, a source told NBC. The Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan, is seen here in 2021 as members of the World Health Organization (WHO) team investigating the origins of the COVID-19 Researchers from Australia and Arizona last year published analysis saying that the lab leak was the most likely leaked from a lab. They used a risk analysis tool to determine the chances the virus was of a 'unnatural' or 'natural' origin. The team compared the characteristics of the virus and the pandemic to 11 criteria that analyzed things like the rarity of a virus, the timing of a pandemic, the population infected, the spread of a virus and the unexpected symptoms of a virus. Based on the nature of Covid, researchers assigned a score to each category - less than 50 percent meant the pandemic would be classified as a natural outbreak, but 50 or more percent would mean the pandemic was an unnatural outbreak. Covid received a score of 68 percent. Since the pandemic started in late 2019 over 1.2 million American have died, with over seven million people across the globe. China has frequently accused the US of trying to 'smear' Beijing with with it calls false claims about the origins of the virus. Six British tourists have been arrested for allegedly dealing cannabis from a holiday villa in Thailand. The Brits reportedly smoked cannabis - now legal in the country - as they held a raucous overnight party at the luxury property on the island Phuket on January 22. The disturbance lasted until early Thursday morning, January 23, when police arrived at the villa to serve a search warrant following complaints from furious neighbours. Officers combed through the premises and allegedly found 3kg of cannabis packed in parcels. They also said they discovered 39 canisters of nitrous oxide or laughing gas, which induces euphoria and hallucinations upon being inhaled. Police arrested the tourists - identified as Abdifatah Gulaid Abdi Ahmed, 31, Esah Muse Mohamed, 22, Ismail Mustafa Waleed Ahmed Taha, 20, Noah Ihiekwe Chidi Eze, 30, Darian Gledhill, 24, and Kieran Gregory, 21 - for allegedly selling cannabis without permission. One of the men, Mohamed, reportedly admitted to owning and selling the controlled substance to his friends. Police arrested the tourists - identified as Abdifatah Gulaid Abdi Ahmed, 31, Esah Muse Mohamed, 22, Ismail Mustafa Waleed Ahmed Taha, 20, Noah Ihiekwe Chidi Eze, 30, Darian Gledhill, 24, and Kieran Gregory, 21 - for allegedly selling cannabis without permission The Brits reportedly smoked cannabis - now legal in the country - as they held a raucous overnight party at the luxury property on the island Phuket on January 22 They also said they discovered 39 canisters of nitrous oxide or laughing gas, which induces euphoria and hallucinations upon being inhaled Police Colonel Teppanom Suwanrat of the provincial police said the raid came after furious residents called the police to report the noisy tourists. They had complained about the off-tune singing, harsh screaming, and loud driving that had ruined their sleep. The police officer said: 'We inspected the travel documents of the six individuals and found that they had entered the country on 60-day visas. Some of them have been to Thailand several times but none of them had overstayed. 'We also found shooting targets inside the house, which the tourists said they had taken from a shooting range in the Chalong area. 'The villa owner had failed to register the tourists' booking at the property, which is required by the Immigration Act. He will be fined 9,600 baht for the violation.' Cannabis with under 0.2 per cent of THC was decriminalised in Thailand in June 2022, as a potential cash crop for impoverished farmers. The disturbance lasted until early Thursday morning, January 23, when police arrived at the villa to serve a search warrant following complaints from furious neighbours Cannabis with under 0.2 per cent of THC was decriminalised in Thailand in June 2022, as a potential cash crop for impoverished farmers Cannabis smoking is allowed for personal use in private areas but remains prohibited in public spaces Cannabis smoking is allowed for personal use in private areas but remains prohibited in public spaces. However, bungling officials are now seeking to outlaw recreational cannabis, blaming poorly regulated use for allegedly fuelling drug abuse and a rise in the the number of cases of tourists over-indulging in the drug. Tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya have seen the negative consequences of legalising the drug, with tourists regularly arrested for misbehaving while under the influence of cannabis. Earlier this week, Russian father Artem Bugorskiy, 45, allegedly threw his son overboard on a ferry while he was high on cannabis in Phuket. The teenager was killed by the boat's propeller. Using the issue of grooming gangs to misrepresent an entire faith is unacceptable, the newly-elected leader of one of the UK's major Muslim organisations has said. Dr Wajid Akhter's made the comments in the wake of being elected as the new secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB). 'One groomer is one too many, Muslim or otherwise,' he said. 'But using the heinous acts of a few to misrepresent an entire faith and an ethnicity is also unacceptable. 'We will act against both injustices.' His comments come just weeks after Policy Exchange, a right-wing think tank, reported that Dr Akhter is said to have 'expressed views which appear ominous for the integration of Muslims into Britain'. In a report titled 'The Muslim Council of Britain's new leadership', Policy Exchange highlighted a 2022 article in which he advocated that British Muslims should identify primarily as Muslim rather than British. 'Most people teach their children to be their nationality or ethnicity first, but this gives such a limited and limiting view of yourself and others that this can lead children to be shallow,' he wrote. 'It is literally how the evils of nationalism, racism, and fascism are born. Choosing faith as a primary identity for your children (and of course yourself!) allows a solid foundation upon which to approach the world.' The MCB, established in 1998, describes itself as the UK's largest Muslim umbrella organisation with more than 500 members, but successive political administrations have followed a policy of non-engagement. Dr Wajid Akhter, the new secretary-general of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), said it was 'unacceptable' to use the issue of grooming gangs to misrepresent an entire faith His comments come just weeks after Policy Exchange revealed that Dr Akhter is said to have 'expressed views which appear ominous for the integration of Muslims into Britain' Ties were first cut under Labour in 2009, over a reported declaration of support by a then-senior figure in the MCB for Hamas. They were restored the following year after the MCB stated its opposition to violence, but more recently both the Conservative and Labour administrations have refused any official engagement. In his manifesto, Dr Akhter, who lived in Essex, noted that international Muslim groups with which he was in contact during the pandemic did not know about the 'fact that the Government did not speak to us'. He has vowed to 'transform the structure, strategy, funding and culture' of the MCB, and for the organisation to be a 'unifying force' in the Muslim community. In his inaugural address, Dr Akhter spoke about the issues facing British Muslims, including recent spikes in Islamophobia on social media. 'We must sidestep the culture wars that force us into a corner and label everyone who criticises us as racist or Islamophobic,' he said. 'We must be willing to engage in good faith with even our most ardent critics. Build bridges, not barriers.' He had faced a vote on Saturday against Dr Muhammad Adrees to become the new secretary-general. Dr Muhammad Adrees, who stood against Dr Akhter, is said to have voiced support for the regime in Iran according to the think tank report Outgoing secretary-general Zara Mohammed made history when she was chosen to lead the MCB in 2021, becoming the first woman and youngest person to take on the role, aged 29 The MCB, established in 1998, describes itself as the UK's largest Muslim umbrella organisation with more than 500 members, but successive political administrations have followed a policy of non-engagement (file pic) Both men had been criticised in the think tank report for some of their previously aired views. Dr Akhter has rejected claims that he previously suggested faith should come before nation, saying it is not a 'binary choice'. In a letter published in the Telegraph, in response to the contents of the Policy Exchange report, he wrote: 'Being British is a cultural and national identity while being Muslim is a matter of faith - these are not mutually exclusive, nor are they in conflict.' In another article in 2012, Dr Akhter described New Year celebrations as a 'pagan' event, saying Muslims shouldn't take part because it 'usually involves un-Islamic practices' such as 'mixed gender events where people wear fashionable clothes, dance and sing songs, etc. It is necessarily an Islam free zone, not least because it has no basis or relationship to Islam'. The same think tank report said Dr Adrees, a consultant physician in the NHS, had voiced support for the regime in Iran, but he said he does 'not endorse the Iranian state regime nor do I have any affiliation with them'. Outgoing secretary-general Zara Mohammed made history when she was chosen to lead the MCB in 2021, becoming the first woman and youngest person to take on the role, at the age of just 29. She has since served two consecutive two-year terms. Labour minister Alex Norris confirmed to Parliament in August that the Government's policy not to engage remained unchanged and that there were no plans for ministers to meet the MCB. A Government spokesman this month declined to comment on the specific reasons for current non-engagement. They said: 'The Government engages regularly with faith communities to foster strong working relationships and we are exploring a more integrated and cohesive approach to tackling racial and religious hatred, including Islamophobia. 'Further details of this work will be set out in due course.' Bill Gates said divorcing his wife Melinda is the 'biggest regret' of his life in a rare, candid interview. The billionaire Microsoft co-founder, 69, admitted his 2021 divorce with his wife of 27 years is 'at the top of the list' of his failures during a interview with the Times of London, published on Saturday. 'That was the mistake I most regret... there are others, but none that matter. The divorce thing was miserable for me and Melinda for at least two years,' he said. His marriage, he said, had kept 'grounded' as he brought his now trillion-dollar company to life. The pair are now amicable, but rumors of infidelity plagued Bill in the immediate aftermath of the divorce announcement. 'I certainly made mistakes, and I take responsibility,' he said in 2023, without expanding. Bill said they see each other often at family events and gatherings of that nature as they share three kids, Jennifer, 28, Rory, 25, and Phoebe, 22, and two grandchildren. The billionaire Microsoft co-founder, 69, admitted his 2021 divorce with his wife of 27 years is 'at the top of the list' of his failures Melinda apparently knew of Gates' 'womanizing' even before their 1994 Hawaii wedding 'Melinda and I still see each other - we have three kids and two grandchildren so there are family events. The kids are doing well. They have good values,' Bill said. The pair married in 1994 and separated secretly in May 2020. They announced their split the following year. Melinda said time apart during the COVID-19 pandemic gave her clarity on the state of their marriage. She said it was the 'healthier choice' for her to part ways. She has since moved on with tech mogul Philip Vaughn. Addressing her divorce, Melinda, 60, said time apart during the COVID-19 pandemic helped give her clarity about the state of her marriage. 'It gave us the privacy to do what needed to be done in private,' she said during a June 2024 interview. The philanthropist and businesswoman, like her ex-husband, admitted it was the 'healthier choice' for her family and herself as she claims the divorce was the 'lowest moment' in her life. During a 2022 interview with TODAY's Savannah Guthrie, Bill divulged his guilt and took responsibility for his action. 'I certainly made mistakes, and I take responsibility,' he said, adding, 'I don't think delving into the particulars at this point is constructive, but yes, I caused pain, and I feel terrible about that.' The pair married in 1994 and separated secretly in May 2020. They announced their split the following year. They are pictured in 2000 Melinda Gates is off the market as she has been spotted flaunting her new romance with tech mogul Philip Vaughn The 60-year-old was seen cozying up to the Seattle-based founder of beer company Tavour as they arrived in New York City after jetting over on a helicopter His ex, who is now reportedly dating tech mogul Philip Vaughn, said that another factor that ultimately led to the end of their marriage was his relationship with Jeffery Epstein - an American serial sex trafficker, pedophile, and financier. 'I did not like that he had meetings with Jeffrey Epstein, no. I made that clear to him,' she told American television personality, Gayle King in 2022. 'He was abhorrent. He was evil personified,' Melinda said of the convicted felon. Melinda shockingly revealed her relationship with Vaughn in October 2024 as she was seen with the Seattle-based entrepreneur as they went to dinner in New York City. Despite going through an 'unbelievably painful' divorce with Bill, Melinda put tensions aside when it came to Philip, who used to work at her ex's company. Meanwhile, Bill has been dating Paula Hurd since 2023. Hurd is the widow of former Oracle co-CEO and president Mark Hurd, who died at the age of 62 in 2019 after a reported battle with cancer. Once a tech executive herself, Hurd is now an event planner and organizer, and philanthropist. A woman was shot in the back in what police are calling a 'targeted' attack after being lured out of her home by a suspect disguised as a construction worker. Video footage released by York Regional Police shows the gunman ambushing the 41-year-old victim around 5:30 p.m. on January 21 in Markham, Ontario, just north of Toronto. The suspect, driving a dark Audi A4 sedan, parked outside the victim's gated residence. Dressed in a bright safety vest, a yellow construction helmet, and a blue medical mask, he waited on the snow-covered sidewalk. The woman, who had just arrived home, encountered the suspect outside. She has not been named and it remains unclear why she was targeted. 'We see a male party that's interacting with our victim, who is pacing back and forth in front of the house,' York Regional Police spokesperson James Dickson told CP24 News on Wednesday. 'There was a conversation that was had.' The brief exchange led the victim and suspect to the edge of her driveway, where she handed him a piece of paper and a pen. A woman was shot in the back in what police are calling a 'targeted' attack after being lured out of her home by a suspect disguised as a construction worker Video footage released by York Regional Police shows the gunman ambushing the 41-year-old victim around 5:30 p.m. on January 21 in Markham, Ontario, just north of Toronto Moments later, as she turned to walk back to her house, the suspect pulled out a gun and shot her once in the back. The firearm appeared to malfunction, but the gunman fired two additional shots as the woman ran for safety. The suspect then sprinted to his car, made a U-turn, and fled the scene. Despite being struck by one bullet, the woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries. She was treated at a hospital and has since been released. Police believe the attack was premeditated and say the victim did not know the gunman. Authorities describe the suspect as an Asian man with a slim build and continue to search for him. Dressed in a bright safety vest, a yellow construction helmet, and a blue medical mask, he waited on the snow-covered sidewalk The woman, who had just arrived home, encountered the suspect outside According to the Toronto Sun, this is the second targeted shooting at the same property. On June 8, 2024, a man was hospitalized in a similar unsolved case. Statues of Captain Cook have come in for a difficult time over recent years around the country, especially around Australia Day. On Friday, a statue of Cook was covered in red paint and smashed in the eastern Sydney suburb of Randwick. The monument of the famed British is located was vandalised before the anti-colonial protests that follwed over the weekend. But on Sunday, some fans of the Captain gathered in Hyde Park in Sydney's CBD to pay homage to him. One man dressed as Cook and waved a large Australian flag in front of the huge statue of his hero. He was joined by others in period gear, and some in modern clothing too, for a picnic on the grass to celebrate Captain James Cook and Australia Day. Daily Mail Australia's David Southwell writes: Around a dozen people, some dressing as colonials from the era of Australias settlement and one man as Captain Cook himself gathered for a picnic in Sydneys Hyde Park to mark the national day. The group with laid out an inviting spread on a blanket in front of Cooks statue and heard some 'wild tales from the colonies, which were stories from the early days of Australias European occupation. Group spokeperson Dana Pham said the event was a throwback to her childhood in the 1980s. I remember growing up with Australia Day picnics and Australia Day events, you would see lots of them on the day, Ms Pham said. In the past decade they are becoming less and less frequent. I can see the City of Sydney still have Australia Day banners on the side of the road, thats good to see, but it is becoming a more and more subdued event. Ms Pham said people had a right to protest but I think having more picnics is a good idea. Celebrate doesnt mean not acknowledging mistakes, she said. Everyone is human, mistakes happen. You celebrate what is good, you acknowledge the bad things but why would you want to dwell on the bad things You are just filled with anger. She said after the group set up at about 2pm they were approached by City of Syndey ranger who looked alternatively confused and concerned but ultimately left the event be. He had a look, Ms Pham said. Maybe he was annoyed about the Australian flags we have temporarily planted in the ground but its just bamboo sticks. Otherwise Ms Pham said the reaction from onlookers had been positive. People walking by are curious. If this was 10 or 20 years ago I dont think people would be curious they would be like oh, its Australia, of course there are going to flags and people having community events. But now it sticks out.' Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna has proposed a bold addition to Mount Rushmore. The Florida representative announced on Friday that she is officially filing legislation to add President Donald Trump's face to the iconic monument. 'I'm actually filing the legislation as we speak,' Luna wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter), responding to a video by Benny Johnson in which Corey Lewandowski made the same suggestion. 'What are we waiting on? Donald Trump's face should be on Mount Rushmore. We've got the votes. Trump's gonna sign it. Let's get it done to memorialize what this man's achieved for this country,' Lewandowski said during his appearance on The Benny Show. Mount Rushmore, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a massive granite sculpture featuring the 60-foot-tall faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These presidents were chosen to represent key milestones in American history: the nation's birth (Washington), expansion (Jefferson), development (Roosevelt), and preservation (Lincoln). The idea for Mount Rushmore originated in the 1920s with South Dakota historian Doane Robinson, who hoped to boost tourism in the region. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum was chosen for the project due to his experience with large-scale sculptures. Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna has proposed a bold addition to Mount Rushmore The Florida representative announced on Friday that she is officially filing legislation to add President Donald Trump's face to the iconic monument Construction began in 1927 and continued until 1941. The project, primarily funded by federal government grants, involved over 400 workers using dynamite, drills, and chisels to carve the monument. The original plan included the presidents' upper bodies, but it was scaled back due to funding and time constraints. Gutzon Borglum passed away in 1941, leaving his son, Lincoln Borglum, to oversee the completion. While Mount Rushmore has become a symbol of American pride and democracy, it remains controversial. The Black Hills are sacred to the Lakota Sioux people, and the U.S. government seized the land in violation of treaties. Today, Mount Rushmore draws over two million visitors annually, standing as both a monumental work of art and a site of historical and cultural significance. Princess Charlene of Monaco has established herself as a royal style icon. Born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, the former Olympic swimmer married Prince Albert II in July 2011. The couple, who live at the Prince's Palace of Monaco, share twins Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques, the heir apparent to the throne, who turned ten in December. In recent years, Gabriella appears to be following in her mother's fashionable footsteps, often seen in chic mini-me ensembles by renowned designers. Could she be taking inspiration from the Princess of Wales? Kate and Princess Charlotte have also shared many twinning fashion moments during royal engagements. Here, we highlight some of our favourite examples. Charlene and Gabriella Monaco's National Day, November 2024 Charlene and Gabriella made a striking fashion statement for Monaco's National Day, also known as Prince's Day, in November 2024. Charlene wore a custom lavender silk suit by Louis Vuitton, complemented by a dramatic fascinator adorned with black plumes. Gabriella looked equally elegant in a powder blue Dior coat-dress, featuring glittering beadwork, paired with a matching hairband. Charlene and Gabriella (pictured with her twin brother) made a striking fashion statement for Monaco's National Day, also known as Prince's Day, in 2024 Monaco's National Day, November 2023 For the 2023 National Day, Charlene embraced a bold all-red ensemble, offering a firm nod to the Monegasque flag. She showcased a double-breasted cashmere coat by DidierAngelo with Manolo Blahnik boots that were dyed to match. Her look was completed with a custom-made Stephen Jones hat, echoing the navy version worn by Gabriella. The young princess was a miniature version of her mother in a matching navy coat and her first pair of heels by Christian Louboutin. For the 2023 National Day, Charlene embraced a bold all-red ensemble, offering a firm nod to the Monegasque flag, with Gabriella in a navy version U Cavagnetu Monaco picnic, September 2022 At the 2022 U Cavagnetu Monaco picnic, Charlene and Gabriella embraced summer chic. Charlene opted for a white embroidered top, paired with dramatic palazzo trousers, by Terrence Bray. Gabriella looked adorable in a blue floral Jacadi dress, accessorised with Missouri sandals featuring floral appliques and a matching headband. She also carried a bouquet identical to her mother's. At the 2022 U Cavagnetu Monaco picnic, Charlene and Gabriella embraced summer chic Monaco Grand Prix, May 2022 Charlene and Gabriella made a memorable appearance at the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix. Charlene chose a bespoke baby blue wool crepe jumpsuit by Terrence Bray, featuring a bateau neckline, bishop sleeves and a low back. Meanwhile, Gabriella wore a vibrant Dolce & Gabbana dress incorporating the same blue tones, paired with Jacadi sandals and Sons + Daughters sunglasses. Charlene and Gabriella made a memorable appearance at the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix Monte Carlo Fashion Awards, May 2022 Charlene and Gabriella attended the 2022 Monte Carlo Fashion Awards during Monte Carlo Fashion Week, for which Charlene serves as patron. Both wore custom gowns created by the palace's atelier. Charlene dazzled in a champagne one-shoulder gown with sheer sleeves, Repossi earrings and Stuart Weitzman pumps. Gabriella, then seven, wore a metallic jacquard dress with an asymmetric neckline and glittering pink accessories. Writing on Instagram ahead of the event, Charlene said: 'Loved every moment preparing my Princess for her first official event. We're looking forward to a great evening at the fashion awards.' Charlene and Gabriella attended the 2022 Monte Carlo Fashion Awards during Monte-Carlo Fashion Week, where Charlene serves as Patron Monaco's National Day, November 2020 In 2020, Charlene marked National Day with a custom-made coat from the palace's atelier, sheer gloves by Cornelia James, a Christian Dior beret and Jimmy Choo kitten heels. Gabriella complemented her mother's look in a navy Jacadi dress, accented with red velvet bow hair clips from the same brand. In 2020, Charlene marked National Day with a custom-made coat from the palace's atelier, sheer gloves by Cornelia James, a Christian Dior beret and Jimmy Choo kitten heels Kate and Charlotte Christmas Day, December 2024 Kate and Charlotte delighted royal-watchers as they arrived at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, dressed in coordinated navy and green ensembles. Kate opted for her hunter-green Alexander McQueen coat, paired with a tartan scarf that mirrored the pattern on her daughter's structured coat. Kate and Charlotte delighted royal-watchers as they arrived at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, dressed in coordinated navy and green ensembles Trooping the Colour, 2024 For the 2024 Trooping the Colour, Kate chose a white dress by Jenny Packham, which she had previously worn to meet well-wishers on The Mall ahead of King Charles' coronation. This time, Kate refashioned the fitted knee-length frock with a striped waist trim and a striking bow added to the neckline, harmonising with Charlotte's nautical-inspired outfit. Kate accessorised with an off-the-peg Philip Treacy hat and simple Jimmy Choo court shoes. For the 2024 Trooping the Colour, Kate refashioned her dress with a striped waist trim and a striking bow added to the neckline, harmonising with Charlotte's nautical-inspired outfit Easter Sunday, April 2022 Blue was the Wales family's colour of choice for the Easter Sunday church service in 2022. Kate chose a pastel blue coat dress by Emilia Wickstead, teamed with tonal accessories, including a pleated headband by Jane Taylor. Charlotte echoed her mother's look in a floral Rachel Riley dress and blue Amaia tights, seamlessly matching the shade of Kate's coat. Blue was the Wales family's colour of choice for the Easter Sunday church service in 2022 Christmas Day, December 2019 On Christmas Day in 2019, Charlotte coordinated with her mother's outfit in a bottle green coat by Amaia. The classic double-breasted design had an A-line silhouette, in the same colour as Kate's hat, bag and shoes, to striking effect. At St Mary Magdalene Church, Sandringham, in 2019, Charlotte coordinated with her mother's outfit in a bottle green coat by Amaia Trooping the Colour, June 2017 For the 2017 Trooping the Colour, Kate and Charlotte twinned in shades of pink. Kate wore an Alexander McQueen dress with a paperbag waist and pleated mid-length skirt, teamed with a Jane Taylor hat. Charlotte donned a pink smocked dress, white socks and berry-toned Mary Jane shoes. For the 2017 Trooping the Colour, Kate and Charlotte twinned in shades of pink Christmas Day, December 2016 During her Christmas debut in 2016, Charlotte subtly matched her mother with rich autumnal tones. Her traditional navy double-breasted wool coat echoed styles worn by Prince William and Prince Harry in their early years. Underneath, she wore a burgundy m&h cardigan, floral smocked dress and ribbed tights, perfectly coordinating the hue of Kate's Mulberry bag. Meghan Markle's journey to becoming a full-time member of the Royal Family was fraught with a lot of well-publicised difficulties. In her months of dating Prince Harry and in the lead up to their wedding, there had been a number of critical stories in the press showing she was happy to trample on royal protocol. So when Meghan went on her first royal engagement with the Queen in June 2018, the couple were nervous about how the press would cover it. But things seemed to go well, as when Meghan was photographed making the Queen laugh, most of the coverage featured the pair of them giggling - with the Daily Mail's front page reading: 'How did Meghan make one so amused?' Although conversations with the Queen are usually private, Harry later revealed in his 2023 memoir Spare that the pair bonded over their love of dogs and motherhood. However, a minor row did also break out following the visit after a video emerged which showed the pair sharing a moment of confusion about who should get in a car first. Meghan first offered to let the Queen get in the car first - before suggesting they switch round, asking: 'What's your preference?'. It is believed that Meghan offered to let her new in-law go before her because the monarch preferred to sit behind the driver's seat. On Meghan Markle's first joint engagement with the Queen, there was a row after a video showed the newly created Duchess entering a car before the monarch The June 2018 video attracted a lot of attention after it showed the pair sharing a moment of confusion at the car door Meghan and the Queen in the car after they got past the awkward moment surrounding who was meant to get in first After a few seconds of going back and forth, a flustered Meghan eventually stepped in at the Queen's instruction before the then 92-year-old monarch followed her into her preferred seat behind the driver. Royal expert Tina Brown later wrote in her 2022 bestselling book The Palace Papers that the Queen had a 'twinkle in her eye' when she allowed Meghan to take precedence. Etiquette expert William Hanson told MailOnline at the time: 'The Queen always sits behind the driver. 'This is just a case of habit, not protocol [protocol actually says the most important person sits diagonally behind the driver] but the Queen has always preferred being directly behind whoever is driving her. 'Meghan was probably not aware of this and the royal household may have forgotten to brief The Duchess of Sussex in this nuance. 'It was, however, a considerate gesture from the Duchess of Sussex to consider where the Queen would like to sit.' Upon seeing the video, the public were divided about what it showed, with some posting comments such as: 'Meghan looks so clueless, truly a fish out of water.' Another said: 'I've said it before, I'll say it again. This woman does not have what it takes to be a Royal.' However, others were quick to defend her, with one writing: 'Give the girl a break. She's trying.' In this picture, Meghan can been seen entering the car first and moving along to sit behind the front passenger The Queen is then pictured following behind Meghan to sit behind the driver A view of the motorcade as Queen Elizabeth II and Meghan arrived in Chester Queen Elizabeth II arriving with the Duchess of Sussex by Royal Train at Runcorn Station to carry out engagements in Cheshire Another wrote: 'Not a fan of Meghan but give this woman a break. She must have been very nervous and didn't do this on purpose or in a disrespectful way. The Queen seems to trust her and enjoy her company.' But when Harry wrote his memoir Spare, he said both he and Meghan felt that after the successful trip 'things are going to turn around now'. However, despite the evidence showing the coverage had been positive and largely focusing on the fact that she managed to make the Queen laugh, Harry had a surprising reaction, writing 'the papers pronounced the trip an unmitigated disaster'. 'They portrayed Meg as pushy, uppity, ignorant of royal protocol, because she'd made the unthinkable mistake of getting into a car before Granny', he wrote. The event itself had been a fairly mundane affair in the first place, with Meghan and the Queen opening a new bridge across the River Mersey in Cheshire. It was the the first and only time the Queen and Meghan carried out a joint engagement. While out with a senior member of the Royal Family, Meghan had to follow the plethora of long-established rules and habits that were in place for such events. As she had married into The Firm at the age of 36, she was not brought up to appreciate all of the intricacies of life in the limelight like her husband Harry. The American actress had to learn how to properly curtsy, give a proper royal handshake, stand up when the Queen does, avoid any PDA and remember not to sign any autographs. Speaking to FEMAIL at the time, body language experts revealed how Meghan appeared deferential, nervous - but above all gloriously happy to be in the monarch's company. Meghan later revealed to Harry that she talked to the Queen about her desire for children during their first joint engagement The Queen and Meghan appeared relaxed in each other's company during the event Queen Elizabeth II and Meghan observe a moment of silence in memory of the victims of the Grenfell Tower fire After the car incident, Meghan was seen walking behind the Queen as they went around Chester And the fond feeling was certainly mutual, with the Queen clearly 'delighted' by how Meghan performed. Harry later wrote of the event in Spare: 'She returned from the trip glowing. We bonded, she told me. "The Queen and I really bonded!" '"We talked about how much I wanted to be a mom and she told me the best way to induce labour was a good bumpy car ride! I told her Id remember that when the time came."' Photographs from the event showed the two women appearing to enjoy each other's company, sharing a joke and laughing. The monarch was also seen sharing her blanket with Meghan while they travelled in the back of the car together. In a March 2021 interview with CBS, Meghan revealed why the Queen's gesture meant so much to her. She said: 'We were in the car going between engagements. And she has a blanket that sits across her knees for warmth, and it was chilly. 'And she was like, "Meghan, come on", and put it over my knees as well and it made me think of my grandmother, where she's always been warm and inviting and really welcoming.' And in another sign of her growing friendship with the Queen, Harry's wife sported a pair of delicate pearl earrings, given to her by the monarch as a gift. Meghan would later wear these same earrings to the monarch's funeral in September 2022. The Queen had gifted Meghan a pair of delicate pearl earrings, which she wore on her first joint engagement with the monarch in June 2018 (left). At the monarch's funeral in September 2022, she wore them again (right) Although the apparent confusion over the car only played a small part in the event, Harry still seemed to be angry about it when he wrote his memoir Spare half a decade later And the month after, she spoke about her relationship with the late Queen in an interview with US magazine Variety, where she said: 'I've reflected on that first official engagement that I had with her, how special that felt. I feel fortunate. 'And I continue to be proud to have had a nice warmth with the matriarch of the family.' The visit was perceived as an occasion for the Sovereign to give a masterclass on how to handle royal engagements for newcomer Meghan. After all, Meghan hasn't been the only person to have seemingly made a royal faux pas in the company of the Queen. US President Donald Trump caught a wave of social media attention when he gaffed by walking in front of the monarch as they inspected a guard of honour in 2018. However, although the apparent confusion over the car only played a small part in the coverage of the event, Harry still seemed to be angry about the criticism when he wrote his memoir half a decade later. He wrote of the event: 'In truth shed done exactly what Granny had told her to do. Granny said get in; she got in. 'No matter. There were stories for days about Megs breach, about her overall lack of class about her daring not to wear a hat in Grannys presence. The Palace had specifically directed Meg not to wear a hat. 'Granny also wore green to honor the victims of Grenfell Tower, and no one told Meg to wear green so they said she didnt give a fig about the victims. 'I said: The Palace will make a phone call. Theyll correct the record. They didnt.' Princess Anne has revealed for the first time how close she was to being left with devastating injuries after a mystery accident last summer. Discussing the incident, in which she was found unconscious on her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire before spending five days in hospital, the King's sister said she recalls 'nothing' of what happened. Buckingham Palace has only said her injuries were consistent with being struck in the head by a horse's hoof or head. The Princess Royal, 74, insists she will not be slowing down any time soon, saying it 'isn't an option' for those in the Royal Family. Hinting strongly at the seriousness of the accident and her concussion which the Mail understands left King Charles 'deeply worried' she said: 'You're jolly lucky... if you can continue to be more or less compos mentis and last summer I was very close to not being.' Asked if she had any memory of what happened last June, she admitted: 'No, nothing. I know where I thought I was going and that was to go to the chickens. 'No, nothing to do with horses. Seeing the chickens was my regular visit. I don't have any idea what I was doing in the field, because I never normally went that way.' She said with unusual seriousness: 'It just reminds you, shows you, you never quite know, something [happens] and you might not recover. Take each day as it comes, they say.' Princess Anne has revealed for the first time how close she was to being left with devastating injuries after a mystery accident last summer Princess Anne was found unconscious on her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire before spending five days in hospital, adding she recalls 'nothing' of what happened The Princess Royal, who is known for her love of horses, said she was left not 'compos mentis' after the accident An air ambulance was scrambled to the estate and the princess was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol by road. She then spent five nights as an in-patient before being discharged to convalesce at home. She was seen a few weeks later still sporting heavy bruising around her face. The princess confirmed there were no lasting injuries, but added: 'You are sharply reminded that every day is a bonus, really.' Anne is a key member of the King's slimmed-down working monarchy and has stepped up amid his cancer diagnosis, taking on duties such as official investitures. She carried out her first public event in 1969 aged 18 when she opened an educational and training centre in Shropshire. And last year she undertook 474 engagements, once more making her the hardest-working royal. Speaking in Cape Town, where Anne has just undertaken the Royal Family's first foreign tour of the year, she again showed her strong dedication to duty. After a whirlwind two-day visit that ended on Wednesday, the princess was asked whether retirement was an option, replying: 'It really isn't written in, no. Princess Anne spent five nights as an in-patient in hospital before being discharged to convalesce at home. Pictured: The royal atlast year's Trooping of the Colour Princess Anne spoke about the incident for the first time during a trip to Cape Town 'It isn't really an option, no, I don't think so. I don't think there's a retirement programme on this particular life.' While in Cape Town, Anne laid a wreath at a Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) memorial the first to recognise 1,700 black South Africans and other races who died working as First World War labourers. She performed the task as CWGC president, a role that had been carried out by the Duke of Kent, 89, since 1970 with Anne taking over in 2023. The princess said: 'I'm very lucky to take on from the Duke of Kent the CWGC, but he's been doing that for a very long time. He did it very well and has covered the globe in support of them... in the end he felt physically that he couldn't travel as much, and he couldn't be as efficient in supporting and I was lucky enough to be asked. 'On the one hand you go for as long as you can, but you have to accept there are some things you can't do anymore and he did that. 'I'm the beneficiary of that which has allowed me to take that on.' Haggis is surely Scotland's most iconic dish. And with Burns Night finally here, millions of Scots will be tucking into the savoury pudding made of sheep's offal, oatmeal and and spices along with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes). But across the Atlantic, where haggis has been banned for more than 50 years, many Americans are struggling to understand what the delicacy actually is. Now, cheeky Scots are tricking tourists into thinking the haggis is a real creature caught and skinned before ending up on Burns Night dinner plate. One Scottish TikTok user posted a clip of herself visiting Glasgow's Kelvingrove Museum, where a wild haggis model is on display. She says: 'Here's what a wild haggis looks like! It's totally real!! It's in a museum and everything.' One user replied: 'Am I the only one who just learned about a completely new animal', while another said: 'i can't tell if this is legit or not.' Meanwhile, hilarious AI-generated imagery posted by the 'Haggis Wildlife Foundation' also presents the 'wild haggis' native to the Scottish Highlands as a real species. Amongst the heather the wild haggis roams, according to the Haggis Wildlife Foundation. But there's something not quite right about the site's alleged photographs Like something between a hedgehog and a guinea pig, the cute little mammal scuttles through the heather over hills and steep mountains of Scotland TikTok clips seemingly narrated by David Attenborough explain: 'Deep in the rugged forests of Scotland, an extraordinary diversity of wild haggis thrives.' The Foundation adds: 'If you're lucky enough to visit Scotland, keep your eyes peeled for these elusive creatures during your hikes or nature walks.' Like something between a hedgehog and a guinea pig, the cute little mammal scuttles through the heather over hills and steep mountains of Scotland, clips show. TikTok's predominantly Gen-Z userbase is falling for the elaborate hoax, with one saying: 'I didn't even know that these animals existed.' Another TikTok user posted: 'what happens on burns night, do they hide? poor things', while yet another said: 'I cant tell of its ai or not.' Someone else said: 'this is ai, right? i'm so confused.' Of course, the wild haggis or 'Haggis scoticus' to give it its supposed Latin name is a traditional Scottish hoax. Origins of the myth are unclear, but it playfully capitalizes on a lack of knowledge globally about what haggis actually is, especially in the US, where it has been banned since 1971 due to the inclusion of sheep's lung. According to the clips, wild haggis comprises several different subspecies each 'uniquely adapted to its local environment', including the 'woolly haggis' and the 'wild male mullet haggis' Burns Night is finally here, which means millions of Scots will be tucking into their haggis tonight in honour of legendary poet Robert Burns. But as you eat the legendary delicacy, spare a thought for the 'elusive' animal ending up on your plate Haggis Wildlife Foundation seems entirely set up for the sole purpose of duping Americans. The site is filled with AI-generated images of wild haggis specimens and fictional staff who work at the Foundation, including 'Professor McDougal MacDougal' and 'Dr Ewan McHabitat' Haggis Wildlife Foundation claims to have been founded in 1892 - although its website and social media accounts only seem to go back to September 2023 What is haggis? Haggis is a savoury pudding composed of the minced sheep's offal (liver, heart, and lungs) mixed with oatmeal and and spices. It's traditionally served with 'neeps' (swede) and 'tatties' (potatoes). Haggis is banned in the US due to US regulations forbidding consumption of lungs from any livestock. In 1971, it became illegal to import haggis into the US from the UK - meaning many have to head home to enjoy the dish on Burns Night. Advertisement According to a 2003 survey, one-third of US visitors to Scotland believed the wild haggis to be a real creature. On its glossy website, Haggis Wildlife Foundation claims to have been founded in 1892 although the site and social media accounts only seem to go back to September 2023. It is filled with AI-generated images of wild haggis specimens and fictional staff who work at the Foundation, including 'Professor McDougal MacDougal' and 'Dr Ewan McHabitat'. According to the video clips, wild haggis comprises several different subspecies each 'uniquely adapted to its local environment', including the 'woolly haggis' and the 'wild male mullet haggis'. There's also the 'Irn-Bru' haggis, described as 'a diminutive and orange-hued variant' that mostly consumes 'fruit from the Irn-Bru tree', in reference to Scotland's famous soft drink. According to legend, the wild haggis's left and right legs are of different lengths allowing it to run quickly on steep mountains and hillsides, but only in one direction. Others say there are two varieties of haggis one with longer left legs that can only run clockwise and one with longer right legs that can only run anticlockwise. Meanwhile, the species native to Scotland's flatter terrain has evolved legs of equal size a 'crucial adaptation', the Foundation says. The site says: 'Our foundation endeavors to elucidate the intricate ecological dynamics of Scotland's biodiversity' Model of the wild haggis along with the prepared dish on display at the Kelvingrove Gallery in Glasgow amongst the pink heather, which it feeds on, according to the myth Haggis Wildlife Foundation says: 'For over 140 years, we have ensured a refuge for Wild Haggis and offer professional training for prospective Haggis Guardians, staff, volunteers and haggis handlers' Wild haggis was the subject of a viral post on Reddit two years ago when one user posted an image of the beast with the question: 'are haggis real?!! I NEED TO KNOW' - prompting some hilarious replies Haggis Wildlife Foundation does admit the animal 'may not exist in the physical sense', but 'certainly exists in the hearts and imaginations of the Scottish people'. 'Wild haggis exists in a unique phenomenological space where the distinction between 'real' and 'not real' becomes meaningless,' it says. Wild haggis was the subject of a viral post on Reddit two years ago when one user posted an image of the beast with the question: 'are haggis real?!! I NEED TO KNOW.' One person replied, 'Yes, though very hard to find in the wild', while another said 'they are slowly creeping up the endangered species list'. A third replied: 'Yes, traditionally people keep them as animals and raise them, usually from birth, until Burns Day where people will put down their pet haggis.' Someone else posted: 'Aye, but due to global warming they're a lot less common these days.' Dr Jason Gilchrist, an ecologist and lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University, said he will be eating vegan haggis with his neeps and tatties this Burns Night. Regarding the wild haggis, he told MailOnline: 'Weel, ah hae heard o' it, bit despite kin hoors spent drookit up th' bonnie hills o' Scotland, ah've ne'er set sicht oan yon seendle elusive beastie.' MailOnline used AI to translate to English: 'Well, I have heard of it, but despite many hours spent soaked on the beautiful hills of Scotland, I have never seen that small elusive creature.' READ MORE: The best 200 restaurants in the UK for 2025 ranked With 44 countries to choose from, deciding on a holiday destination in Europe can be bewildering. So ease the stress with this guide to the best and worst of the continent by German TikToker Jannis M who has been to every country on it. Here he reveals why Italy is his overall favourite, why hes less keen on Bulgaria and the cities he didnt feel safe in. THE FAVOURITES Italy Jannis tells MailOnline he took many things into account before settling on Italy as his favourite country. The intrepid traveller explains: Its very easy to get there. Its quite affordable. Not the cheapest, but affordable. The landscapes are super diverse. You have the mountains in the north, amazing countryside in Tuscany, great cities, volcanoes and beautiful beaches - you have pretty much everything you can ask for in one country. He adds: Of course you also have all the history, the uncountable Unesco World Heritage sites. You never get bored. You can go to the next city and see something really unique and beautiful. Jannis has visited every country in Europe and shares his thoughts about his favourite spots on the continent with MailOnline. He's pictured above in Milan, Italy - his favourite country Jannis is a fan of Italy's 'super diverse landscapes'. He's pictured above in Varenna Italian food is also a major bonus for Jannis, who describes it as probably the best in the world and the 23-year-old traveller is also a fan of Italys super lovely people. Despite one bad experience where he got an 80-euro (67/$82) bus fine, he describes Italy as his favourite European country by far. Iceland The TikTok adventurer says: I would describe Iceland as cute because its really small. You can rent a car and drive around the entire country in a couple of days by yourself. Jannis, who visited Iceland during the winter, reveals: Its really the country of fire and ice. 'You have the volcanoes and amazing icy landscapes in winter. I like cold weather and its never hot there in summer. Plus, we were able to see the Northern Lights. However, there is a downside to Iceland. Jannis warns: Its ridiculously expensive. Ive never seen food prices that high. I was shocked. And, while Jannis describes Icelandic people as super nice and friendly, he adds that there arent a lot of them and the majority of people you meet in Iceland will be tourists. Jannis loves Iceland and enjoys its cold weather and icy landscapes. LEFT: At Skogafoss waterfall. RIGHT: At Diamond Beach But its still a big thumbs up for Iceland from the traveller, who says: If you rent a car, Im pretty sure youll have an amazing time. 'Iceland is super safe, super clean and everything works. The streets are in great condition. Spain Spain is affordable and has great history and great culture, explains Jannis. He says: You can go and see everything that you want within a couple of weeks, but just like Italy, there are always new places to explore. The food also has the wow factor for the traveller. Spains islands, Balearic and Canary, are a big positive for Jannis, but he tells MailOnline that the Mediterranean country also has great cities like Madrid and Barcelona'. The TikToker reveals that Valencia is his all-time favourite city in Europe. Although Spain is firmly in Janniss top-European-destinations list, he does say that the country has its problems. Valencia, where Jannis is pictured above, is the traveller's 'all-time favourite city in Europe' The traveller claims: They have a lot of unemployment. I would say its not the safest country. They have a lot of drug trafficking and what not. Cyprus Jannis tells MailOnline that Cyprus is a cute hidden gem in Europe that most people just forget about. He says: Theyve got amazing beaches even if theyre not sand beaches. It has probably the best crystal clear water Ive ever seen in Europe. 'Its just a great getaway from the winter. I was there in December and it was 25 degrees. I was pretty happy. The traveller adds: Theyve got a nice blend of different cultures. The North was taken over by the Turkish, so the north of the island is predominantly Turkish and Muslim and the south is Greek Orthodox. And you can really feel that. As a tourist, you have no problem crossing the unofficial border so you can just see the Turkish side, experience some Turkish food and Turkish culture, then you also have the Greek culture and the Greek food in the south. Jannis also recommends exploring some of the island's sights that are connected to Greek mythology, such as Aphrodites Rock and the House of Dionysus. Jannis describes Cyprus as a 'cute hidden gem'. He's pictured above in Paphos THE LEAST FAVOURITES... Bulgaria and Romania The traveller tells MailOnline that none of the countries in Europe were particularly bad but he just didnt like Bulgaria and Romania as much as some other destinations on the continent. He explains: The reason why I had to rank Bulgaria and Romania low was because I was there when I was a kid. I was 13 and I travelled there with my grandparents and I just didnt like it at that time. 'It was just being confronted with the [former] Eastern Bloc for the first time. They've got nice beaches, but we just stayed in an all-inclusive hotel, then went round the city of Varna for a bit. However, Jannis explains that he is dying to go back to both Bulgaria and Romania to give them a second chance and make new memories as an adult as theyve got amazing people, food and culture. Moldova Jannis visited Moldova in March 2023. He describes it as a nice tucked away country in eastern Europe. Jannis ranks Moldova among his least favourite countries. He's pictured above in breakaway region Transnistria The traveller explains: Its cute. Theyve got great food and their culture is pretty cool. However, its unlikely hell be back. He reveals: Its nice if you get the chance to go, but would I go again? Probably not. Theres not that much to do. The city of Chisinau is nice but the countryside is full of vineyards and I dont like wine so thats probably the main reason why I wont go back there. Jannis also visited Transnistria, a breakaway region of Moldova. He explains: That was pretty cool. You felt like you were in the Soviet Union. Liechtenstein The TikToker gives Liechtenstein a low ranking, as its super small with nothing there. He explains: Even the capital of Vaduz... you can just cross it on foot.' Vatican City The smallest country in Europe, Jannis explains that Vatican City is really nice due to its historic sites, adding that he loved St Peters Dome and the Vatican Museum. However, its small size means it makes the list of least favourites for Jannis. He says: Its just so small. You can spend a couple of hours there. You cant even stay in Vatican City overnight, you have to stay in Rome. Where was the most dangerous country in Europe? Although Jannis visited Ukraine in 2023 during the war, he reveals: I would say that Ukraine during the war felt a lot safer than most western capital cities. While he explains that overall, Europe is pretty safe, Jannis picks out three major cities where he felt a little unsafe. He tells MailOnline: When it comes to pickpocketing, I would say Barcelona. I always had to watch my bag. And I hated Marseille. The harbour and everything was nice, but it felt sketchy. Paris as well would be in my top three. And the safest? Iceland is easily the safest country in Europe, says Jannis. Malta, Cyprus, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Liechtenstein, Andorra and San Marino also get a thumbs up from Jannis for safety. Perhaps surprisingly, Belarus is also included as being among the safest destinations he's visited. LEFT: Jannis considers Malta as one of Europe's safest destinations. He's pictured in the capital city, Valletta. RIGHT: The traveller was pleasantly surprised by Montenegro's beauty. He's pictured in Budva What was the biggest surprise? Visiting every country made me see how diverse Europe is, reveals Jannis. He explains: Youve got all these different cultures, all kinds of different places and different landscapes. Every country is unique in its own way and has something special to offer. The cultures can be similar but also diverse. Take someone from Iceland and compare them to someone from Hungary and theyre nothing alike. But they're all European. When it comes to countries, Montenegro was one of the biggest pleasant surprises for Jannis, who says: I didnt know what to expect and I found it to be one of my favourites because its so beautiful. He adds that he was also surprised by Belarus as he felt 'super safe' there, despite the country's 'bad reputation' in 'Western media'. Is there anywhere he wouldnt go back to? As well as Moldova, Jannis says he wouldnt be in a rush to return to Monaco. He explains: Its just straight up luxurious and glamorous and not my kind of world. Like everything is about being rich and bling bling and I didnt like that. And there are a few cities hed avoid in future. The traveller reveals: I wouldnt go back to Marseille. I didnt like it there. I dont like Berlin either. And I didn't like Paris. Want more from Jannis? Follow him on TikTok - @jannistravels - or Instagram... jannistravels. For many of us, tick tock is still the sound a trusty clock makes on the mantlepiece. But, for billions more around the world, TikTok strictly with capital Ts is something radically different and now competes with Google as a search engine, especially among its Gen Z loyalists. It may be unfortunate that one of the most popular social media platforms is Chinese-owned (and for a few hours last weekend was banned in America) but there's no denying it's now an essential part of 21st century information-gathering. In particular, its influence on where and how we travel is far-reaching. Launched in the UK just six years ago, it already has more than 150 million users in Europe alone. Which helps explain why I'm here in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, embarking on something of an experiment: my every move is largely determined by some of the 110,000 short-form videos about the city and its nearby attractions that have been posted on the TikTok site. I'm not a member of Gen Z, by the way. Not a Millennial, either; nor Generation X or Y, for that matter. I'm a Baby Boomer who was brought up with maps rather than sat-navs, guide books rather than apps, and I'm innately suspicious of algorithms, never mind 'online content creators' and 'influencers' who can't go ten yards without taking a picture of themselves. But if expectation in the run-up to a holiday is all-important which it undoubtedly is then typing your chosen destination into the TikTok app before you set off can whet the appetite, incite excitement and may well be a factor in planning your itinerary. It's tricky to visit Slovenia once a part of General Tito's Yugoslavia without making the trek to Lake Bled, just over an hour away from Ljubljana The gorgeous Robba fountain in Ljubljana old town. The city has a mix of secessionist buildings, baroque churches, Habsburg influences and turn of the 20th-century bridges Mark Palmer with BA staff before a trip to America, where TikTok was banned for a few hours last weekend Ljubljana (fiendishly difficult to spell) is a big hit with TikTok aficionados and for good reason. The historic Old Town is exquisite, with the river Ljubljanica flowing through it and the 12th-century castle keeping watch high above. It's a compact and orderly city. You can go everywhere on foot; it's safe, clean, uncrowded, good value. The people are friendly and the whole confection with its mix of secessionist buildings, baroque churches, Habsburg influences and turn of the 20th-century bridges is wonderfully accessible, thanks largely to the decision of the mayor in 2007 to ban cars and buses from the centre of town. At the time, this led to a rebellion from some shops and restaurants, but tourism took off from that moment onwards and no one now complains. Our hotel, Zlata Ladjica, is in a perfect position on the river, occupying a 15th-century building that has been restored beautifully. Our hotel, Zlata Ladjica, is in a perfect position on the river, occupying a 15th-century building that has been restored beautifully The Postojna Caves about an hour south-west of the capital is the biggest and possibly most spectacular series of caves in the world and perfect for TikTok postings One TikTok video appeals to my gluttony by focusing on the hotel's sumptuous breakfasts, while another enthuses about the spa, with its 'amazing' zero-gravity bed. Check me in and both posts prove to be 100 per cent accurate. As are the videos about a nearby restaurant called Gostilna Sokol, where we have our first lunch and gobble up traditional Slovenian dumplings with a meaty ragout. The menus at Sokol show pictures of all the dishes just like they did in Wimpy Bars in the 1960s. One TikTok video of the restaurant has garnered more than 30,000 views, with 212 'likes'. At first, I'm not entirely sure how I register my 'like' but make that 213. Then we go in search of Joze Plecnik, the hero architect whose creations are everywhere in this small (fewer than 300,000 residents) but chic city. Sadly, TikTok has little to say about this extraordinary man. Yet Ljubljana would be nothing like so beautiful, nothing like so inspiring, without his bold portfolio of work. Plecnik died in 1957 and the house he built for himself is now a museum but with a difference. Everything in it is exactly as it was the day he died, right down to the crockery in the kitchen, his sketches, crayons and spectacles in the study and his humble single bed. But TikTok comes up trumps in the delicious form of Patisserie Yauya. 'The chocolate croissant spoke to me,' said one TikToker, with some 18,000 views of his sweet-toothed video. Certainly, the hazelnut praline speaks to me and the coffee not only tastes good but is served in dainty cups and matching saucers. Almost as atmospheric are Julija restaurant (103,000 views) on the main shopping street and Spajza (91,000 views), the latter offering sublime food across the road from St Florian church. The Postojna Caves about an hour south-west of the capital is Slovenia's most popular tourist attraction. It's the biggest and possibly most spectacular series of caves in the world and perfect for TikTok postings. One video has had 570,000 views. A marketing dream, surely. Figovec restaurant - popular on TikTok - looks authentic enough and so off we trot and it exceeds expectation, not least because of its affordable wines A TikToker posts a recommendation about visiting the Slovenian capital The caves comprise some 15 miles of tunnels (you ride on an electric train) and vast chambers, which over millions of years of erosion and corrosion from the Pivka river, coupled with rainfall seeping through the caves' permeable limestone ceilings, have created gothic-like chiselled columns, many of them translucent (and some overtly phallic) when lit up. Nearby Predjama Castle, built into a rock face at the end of a valley, is predictably described by one TikTok post as 'super-cool' which was true in the literal sense for those who lived there until the end of the Second World War, when, as now, it was open to the elements. It's tricky to visit Slovenia once a part of General Tito's Yugoslavia without making the trek to Lake Bled, just over an hour away from Ljubljana, especially if TikTok is holding your hand. Predjama Castle, built into a rock face at the end of a valley, is predictably described by one TikTok post as 'super-cool' The assortment of videos (one has been viewed 430,000 times) capture the beauty of this famous landmark rather better, in our case, than seeing it due to torrential rain and low cloud. I'm sure the weather was much brighter the day President Trump came here to meet his Slovenian wife Melania's parents in 2004. Back in the capital, a video pops up on my feed. 'Here I am eating fried chicken at Figovec restaurant in Ljubljana,' says a pretty young blonde woman, before showing footage of inside the restaurant. It looks authentic enough and so off we trot and it exceeds expectation, not least because of its affordable wines and Slovenian wine is excellent. If the country were to produce enough of the stuff, you'd see it stacked high in UK wine shops. Also popular on TikTok is Strelec restaurant, housed in one of the towers at the castle. 'Do you want to dine like a real count and countess,' trills one post. Sounds good to me, especially since it has a Michelin star and offers a five, seven or nine-course tasting menu. We go for the five-course extravaganza, which somehow morphs to seven once you factor in the 'chef's greetings' as it calls the amuse bouches. The pink Church of the Annunciation, which was taken over by the Franciscans in 1784 Roses bloom on the city's green riverfront promenade One morning, we hire a private guide via the tourist office and it feels almost a betrayal of my new companion TikTok. But, born and raised in Ljubljana, she fills in plenty of gaps the parts that TikTok does not seem to reach. We hear all about Slovenia's greatest romantic poet, France Preseren, whose statue stands in the beautiful square named after him, opposite the pink Church of the Annunciation, which was taken over by the Franciscans in 1784. Beneath Preseren, who was an alcoholic and deeply unhappy but renowned as a genius, is a bronze of a naked woman, thought to be his muse. So incensed was one particular bishop that he ordered for two olive trees to be planted either side of the entrance so that members of his congregation were spared seeing the nude woman on leaving the church. Overall, TikTok serves us well in Ljubljana. Yes, I would have liked more history and background about this charming city but that's not what it's all about. It's visual, immediate, breezy. I discuss this with a member of staff at the hotel, who suggests that I should post something myself, homing in perhaps on the great contribution made by architect Joze Plecnik. A good thought. There's an option to set your videos to music, too. I'm thinking Plecnik might appreciate something by Slovenia's most famous composer Hugo Wolf (1860-1903) . . . but, then, that might be a Baby Boomer intervention too far. Even so, I suspect that legions of those of a certain age already check out TikTok postings before flying off somewhere new. It's more interesting than Tripadvisor. Those trusty clocks on the mantlepiece have competition. A crime drama with 'the best twice since Broadchurch' is finally free to stream on ITVX. North Shore, created by Mike Bullen, was released on Network 10 in Australia back in May 2023. The Australian mystery crime thriller follows an Australian and British detective as they join forces to figure out who killed the British trade minister's daughter. North Shore stars Joanne Froggatt, John Bradley, Dan Spielman, Rob Carlton, Matt Passmore, Ryhs Muldoon and Toby Truslove. Now all six episodes are available for those in the UK to watch it on the streaming service. Many have already started watching it - and they are certainly impressed. Crime drama North Shore is finally free to stream on ITV -and it's the perfect weekend binge-watch North Shore premiered on Australian network Network 10 in May 2023 Broadchurch hit our screens in 2013 One wrote on X: '#NorthShore Not long now till episode 3. Really enjoying this show. We need more good dramas on Sat nights. Too many game,quiz shows etc.' Another said: 'Binged North shore on itv great series and twist at the end would never of thought!! Excellent.' A third tweeted: 'Gosh, Joanne Frogatt is splendid! #NorthShore on @ITV is most promising!' While a fourth confessed: 'Just binge watched #NORTHSHORE One of the best series we've watched in a long time! Here's hoping they'll be another series!' A fifth added: 'hello, loved last nights#NorthShore premiere on @ITV great stuff from you, cant wait to see whats coming up, hope you are having a lovely weekend x.' 'Binged North shore on itv great series and twist at the end would never of thought!! Excellent #itv #northshore,' a sixth chimed in. If watching on ITVX isn't your thing, viewers can watch it live every Saturday on ITV at 9:30pm. Many have taken to X to share how much they love the new drama on ITV The first instalment premiered on January 4 and this Saturday will mark the fourth episode of the series. The series was written by creator Mike Bullen and Marcia Gardner, and directed by Gregor Jordan. North Shore currently has had one successful season. Unfortunately for fans there has been no confirmation that there will be another season. North Shore's official description reads: 'Set on and around Sydney Harbour, North Shore follows the clash of cultures when a British and an Australian detective team up to solve a complex murder mystery and uncover a conspiracy with international political consequences.' Stream North Shore on ITVX now. A fake Welsh accent, backstabbing and lots of murders - the third series of The Traitors was non-stop drama from start to finish. The popular BBC show, hosted by the iconic Claudia Winkleman, came to a sensational end on Friday. However, if you are already missing the murder mystery competition, there are many more series from around the world that offer the same dramatic banishments and murders. There were multiple seasons of Les Traitres filmed in France as well as De Varraders in Belgium and the Netherlands. Denmark and Portugal also have their own takes of the show, as well as Czechia. Read on below to find out about other versions of The Traitors from across Europe. Claudia Winkleman (pictured), host of the UK's version of The Traitors The Netherlands 'De Verraders' in the Netherlands, which is Dutch for The Traitors, was the original version of the show and the first of four seasons aired in 2021. It is hosted by Dutch television presenter and comedian Tijl Beckand, 50, and originally featured celebrities in the first three series. The fourth season, released last year, was reportedly the first to have regular civilians as contestants. De Verraders has been filmed at multiple locations, all perfect for deceitful Traitors and clever Faithfuls to scheme amongst each other. The first two series took place in Erenstein Castle, while season three was recorded at Chateau de Beguin in France and the most recent was located in the French Chateau de Beguin, according to Reislegende. Aside from the regular show, the Netherlands's also has a special Halloween edition too. De Verraders was broadcast on RTL 4. Dutch television presenter and comedian Tijl Beckand (centre) on De Verraders France France has three series of The Traitors to offer, and all were filmed in stately chateaus. 'Les Traitres' is hosted by French presenter Eric Antoine, 48, and features up to 20 celebrity contestants. Like the UK version of the show, the Traitors and Faithfuls work towards winning a cash prize, which in this case is donated to a charity of the winner's choice. In season one, contestants were summoned to Chateau de Beauvoir, an impressive setting in Saint-Pourcain-sur-Besbre. For the second season, the location was changed to Chateau de Val, a castle in Bort-les-Orgues. While the third installment was filmed in Chateau de Biron. Les Traitres can be streamed on M6. 'Les Traitres' is hosted by French presenter Eric Antoine (left) and features up to 20 celebrity contestants. Like the UK version of the show, the Traitors and Faithfuls work towards winning a cash prize, which in this case is donated to a charity of the winner's choice Czechia Czechia also has it's own version of the popular murder mystery show, called Zradci. Hosted by Czech actor Vojtech Kotek, 37, this version of The Traitors only has one season so far and first aired last year. It was filmed in the majestic Krivoklat castle, located in the Central Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. The castle has a large turret which could be the perfect place for Traitors to scheme and murder. Zradci can be streamed on Czech TV network Prima. Hosted by Czech actor Vojtech Kotek (pictured) the Czechia version of The Traitors only has one season so far and first aired last year Denmark Denmark has also joined The Traitors trend with Forraeder, the Danish edition of the show. Hosted by Lise Rnne, Forraeder first aired in 2023 and has a total of two series so far, both eight episodes each. Like other European versions of the show, the contestants are made up of celebrities who become either a Traitor or a Faithful. The first season was hosted in historic Hvedholm castle in Faaborg, Denmark which sits next to a lake. Both series featured 18 contestants and consisted of eight episodes - providing plenty of content for fans. Forraeder can be streamed on TV 2 Play. Hosted by Lise Rnne (pictured) Forraeder first aired in 2023 and has a total of two series so far, both eight episodes each The cast of the first season of Forraeder pictured beside host Lise Portugal Os Traidores, the Portuguese take on the popular show first hit screens backs in 2023. The one and only series in Portugal so far was hosted by NCIS actress Daniela Ruah, 41, and saw 20 contestants participate in the murder mystery competition. Faithfuls and Traitors gathered together at the gothic-looking Monastery of Alcobaca in central Portugal. The impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features a church built in the Middle Ages, looks to be the perfect location for the show. The ten episodes of Os Traidores can be watched on Opto Sic. Os Traidores, the Portuguese take on the popular show first hit screens backs in 2023 and is hosted by Daniela RuahImage (pictured) Belgium Sharing the same name as the Netherlands's version, 'De Verraders' first aired in Belgium in 2022. Like the UK version, De Verraders has three seasons so far and is hosted by Staf Coppens. The first installment was filmed in Erenstein Castle, like the Netherlands's take on the show. De Verraders can be watched on Belgium broadcaster VTM. Baking firm Warburtons was forced to ditch a batch of loaves after Paddy McGuinness failed to wear a beard-net while filming at one of its bakeries. The comedian, 51, returned to where he first landed a paying job in his latest episode of BBC's Inside The Factory - Warburtons bread factory. In a recent chat with The Mirror, Paddy revealed that in 1989 he used to clean out the ovens for the factory and would get paid less than 20 for all his hard work. And while that may not seem like a lot now, Paddy revealed that back in then even a tenner would make you feel rich in Bolton. However, it appears while Paddy has a soft spot for Warburtons, it might not be the case the other way around. Viewers quickly spotted that the 51-year-old had not complied with food hygiene recommendations by only wearing a hair net. One person said on social media: 'Paddy McGuinness is one of the best-known and most popular celebrities around - and there he was setting an absolutely terrible example. 'To make it worse, Warburtons workers were stood chatting to him the whole time. Why did no one say anything about it?' Warburtons was forced to ditch a batch of loaves after Paddy McGuinness failed to wear a beard-net The baking firm invited Paddy into their factory to have a look at how they make loaves of bread Viewers quickly spotted that the 51-year-old had not complied with food hygiene recommendations Responding to the viewer, Warburtons' customer care team told the Sun: 'We would like to reassure you that the food safety of the product was not compromised during the filming. 'All products were disposed of where interactions with the product had taken place.' While they did not confirm how many loaves were impacted, it added: 'Having Paddy on site was a real pleasure. 'The handful of loaves, and balls of dough he interacted with during the episode were sent to be made into animal feed. They were gratefully received.' Discussing his time at Warburtons with The Mirror, Paddy said: 'It was a lovely feeling knowing you had a tenner. 'A tenner back then in Bolton with me and my mates, I was like f***ing Jeff Bezos, you know.' Paddy then went on to explain that he would wake up everyday Saturday at 6am during the winter. And his determination to earn some cash was unbreakable as he revealed that he would still turn up when it was cold and wet. He added: 'It was always raining, pitch black and freezing. I had a hole in my trainer where my sock would hang out.' The comedian, 51, returned to where he first landed a paying job in his latest episode of BBC's Inside The Factory Previously Paddy revealed he was nervous about working with co-host Cherry for the first time, in an interview with The Sun Gregg stepped down from the show last year after the allegations in regard to female factory workers at Nestle, where he was filming at the time Paddy has seemed to have settled well into his new hosting role exploring factories. He made his Inside The Factory debut alongside Cherry Healy during the BBC show's Christmas special. Gregg Wallace stepped down from the show last year after the allegations in regard to female factory workers at Nestle, where he was filming at the time. Sources said he had been 'rude towards staff' and spoke to them in a 'derogatory manner, especially to women'. But he later denied accusations, saying the claims were 'inaccurate'. The show visits factories up and down the country to see how our favourite products are made. In the ninth season, Paddy and Cherry visit a host of new factories that produce some of our favourite foods on a massive scale, from sliced bread to flapjacks and sausage rolls. In a Christmas special the duo visit a chocolate factory in Belgium to learn how they produce an incredible four million individual chocolate shells every single day. Jennifer Aniston's first hand experience with infidelity rumors within her marriage to Brad Pitt influenced her decision to shut down ongoing Barack Obama romance claims, according to sources who say the actress feared that staying silent would only 'add fuel to the fire'. Speculation that the Friends star, 55, was romantically linked to the married former president, 63, has been swirling amid rumors that his marriage to Michelle Obama is headed for divorce. However, a resurfaced clip from October revealed how The Morning Show star denied the claims, with Jennifer telling Jimmy Kimmel at the time that the rumor was 'absolutely untrue.' After Michelle, 61, failed to attend both Jimmy Carter's funeral and Donald Trump's inauguration - leaving Barack to attend solo - the video of Jennifer setting the record straight started recirculating. Now, insiders have shed light on what made the star choose to break her pattern of refusing to comment on rumors. 'Jen was going to have her people either not respond or give a "no comment," but she thought that would add fuel to the fire,' a source exclusively revealed to DailyMail.com. Jennifer Aniston 's first hand experience of infidelity rumors within her past marriage to Brad Pitt is why she shut down ongoing Barack Obama romance claims, sources tell DailyMail.com Speculation that the Friends star was romantically linked to the married former president, 63, has swirled amid rumors that his marriage with Michelle Obama is headed for divorce 'She decided to shut it down before it could get even more out of hand.' The insider noted that Jennifer has previously ignored the many surreal claims throughout her career, but knowing the rumors might upset Michelle made her speak up. 'She barely knows Obama, let alone is dating him,' the insider continued. 'She told friends that after all these years of being in the spotlight, this has to be the most bizarre piece of gossip she has ever heard about herself.' The source added: 'She truly doesnt know how people come up with this stuff out of nowhere. More than being concerned about it, shes totally baffled. 'However, Jens upset for Michelle because shes seen stories about the Obamas' marriage being on the rocks and she knows first hand what it is like to be at the center of stories like that.' DailyMail.com has contacted reps for Jen for comment. Brad famously ended his marriage to the Horrible Bosses actress in 2005, after meeting Angelina Jolie on the set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith. In the years that followed, he and Jolie made comments that appeared to confirm that their relationship started while the actor was still married to Jennifer. The Troy actor and Angelina were then together for 11 years before their marriage came to its own explosive end in 2016. The source explained: 'Jens upset for Michelle because shes seen stories about the Obamas' marriage being on the rocks and she knows first hand what it is like' Brad famously ended his marriage to the Horrible Bosses actress in 2005 after meeting Angelina on the set of Mr. & Mrs. Smith (pictured together in 2014) In the years that followed, the now-split couple made comments that appeared to confirm that their relationship had started while the actor was still married to Jennifer (pictured in 2012) Jennifer made her attempt to shut down the Barack rumors last year during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! The host, 57, handed her a gossip magazine which featured the claim and the Dumplin' actress responded: 'Of all the calls you get from your publicist where you're just like "Oh, no, what's it gonna be?" or you get an email saying some cheesy tabloid is gonna make up a story and then it's that' 'I was not mad at it,' she then added with a giggle, before clarifying that the story is 'absolutely untrue.' 'So, the truth about Jen and Barack is that there's no truth?' Jimmy confirmed. Jennifer stressed: 'I've met him [Obama] once. I know Michelle more than him.' Joking, Jimmy then asked: 'Is there a truth about you and Michelle?' 'That is not true,' the actress said with a smile. Jennifer is not known to be dating anyone currently, and has not been romantically linked to anyone for the past five years. Jennifer addressed the rumor on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in October where she said it was 'absolutely untrue' Jimmy Kimmel presented the Hollywood actress with the magazine which made the allegations Jennifer is not known to be dating anyone currently, and has not been romantically linked to anyone for the past five years Meanwhile, Barack and Michelle have been married for 33 years, and share daughters Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23. Earlier this month, the former president signaled that his marriage is still going strong when he uploaded a sweet message to Michelle for her birthday. 'Happy birthday to the love of my life, @MichelleObama,' he wrote, alongside a snap that showed them holding hands while enjoying dinner. 'You fill every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace and you look good doing it. Im so lucky to be able to take on life's adventures with you. Love you.' The image featured a smiling Barack in a gray button down top and black dress pants, as he sat across from Michelle, who donned a dark V-neck sweater dress and a patterned headpiece. They lovingly grabbed each other's hands as they faced the camera. Michelle shared the post to her own account alongside a simple caption that read: 'Love you, honey!' Fans of the political power couple became concerned that there may be trouble in paradise immediately after it was announced that Michelle wouldn't be attending Trump's inauguration. Barack also shut down divorce rumors as he posted a gushing tribute to the 'love of his life' Michelle in honor of her 61st birthday earlier this month Michelle shared the post to her own account alongside a simple caption that read: 'Love you, honey!' The former president and his wife tied the knot at the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago on October 3, 1992 'I'm calling it, the Obamas are getting a divorce,' wrote one person on X, formerly Twitter. Another posted: 'An Obama divorce would not be on my 2025 predictions but it might happen.' '[Michelle] and Obama are on the outs. They are getting a divorce. She doesn't want to be around him,' someone else said. 'Sounds like an Obama divorce is on the horizon, we've all seen it, they stop attending functions together,' a fourth tweet read. Justin Baldoni's lawyers have hit back at Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' request to gag them and claim she started a 'media feeding frenzy' amid their lawsuits. The legal fight erupted just before Christmas when the glamorous blonde, 37, sued It Ends With Us co-star Baldoni, 41 for sexual harassment. At the same time, the New York Times released a story based on Livelys legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a negative publicity campaign against her and put the smell claim front and center. In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Reynolds that accused her of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career. After Lively and Reynolds asked for a protective order Tuesday against Baldoni's legal team, the same day a bombshell video was released by lead attorney Bryan Freedman, Baldoni's attorney Kevin Fritz has branded the proposed order an 'intimidation tactic.' In a letter dated January 23 and obtained by People, Fritz asks for the judge to deny the order, writing Lively's 'desire to force the Wayfarer Parties to defend themselves privately against allegations made publicly is not a proper basis for a gag order. It is tactical gamesmanship, and it is outrageous.' Justin Baldoni's lawyers have hit back at Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' request to gag them and claim she started a 'media feeding frenzy' amid their lawsuits The legal fight erupted just before Christmas when Lively, 37, sued It Ends With Us co-star Baldoni, 41 for sexual harassment Fritz says Baldoni and his colleagues at Wayfarer Studios have been 'exiled from polite society and suffered damages totaling hundreds of millions of dollars' as a result of Lively's lawsuit. They say Baldoni faced 'utterly calamitous fallout, and they 'instantly became objects of public scorn and contempt.' Fritz claims Lively ignited a 'media feeding frenzy' by allegedly giving the New York Times a copy of her complaint for their article. This comes after DailyMail.com revealed Lively and Reynolds will be subpoenaed for all texts, emails, and messages sent about Baldoni and the film It Ends With Us 'imminently'. The high-flying Hollywood couple were both named as defendants in a blockbuster lawsuit filed by the actor last week which could see them facing a $400million payout if he prevails. Both Lively and Reynolds along with their PR supremo Leslie Sloane, are also being hit with deposition requests which will see the pair ordered to provide hours of testimony and be quizzed by Baldoni's lawyers. A source familiar with the proceedings told DailyMail.com: 'Unequivocally yes, all parties should be aware that they will be subpoenaed and deposed imminently'. The impending subpoenas are a further sign that the gloves are coming off in the epic legal battle between glamorous blonde Lively and saturnine director Baldoni. After Lively and Reynolds asked for a protective order Tuesday against Baldoni's legal team, Baldoni's attorney branded the proposed order an 'intimidation tactic'; Lively seen in 2024 Fritz says Baldoni and his colleagues at Wayfarer Studios have been 'exiled from polite society and suffered damages totaling hundreds of millions of dollars' as a result of Lively's lawsuit They claimed Freedman is 'violating court rules that stop a lawyer from making statements to the press that are irrelevant to a case and might prejudice the jury.' They specifically mention the release of the unedited footage. Sources close to Baldoni told DailyMail.com they believe it's 'grossly unfair to impose a gag order after Justin has been defamed by the New York Times in an article that they say has cost him three jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars. 'All Justin wants to do is release videos and text messages to prove the allegations are false. 'It is unbelievable that Blake Lively would go on a takedown campaign against Justin and then immediately turn around and say she wants a gag order so that Justin can't defend himself.' This comes after Lively broke her silence on the unedited footage. 'Justin Baldoni and his lawyer may hope that this latest stunt will get ahead of the damaging evidence against him, but the video itself is damning,' her legal team shared in a statement with DailyMail.com. Her team claims the video 'shows Mr. Baldoni repeatedly leaning in toward Ms. Lively, attempting to kiss her, kissing her forehead, rubbing his face and mouth against her neck, flicking her lip with his thumb, caressing her, telling her how good she smells, and talking with her out of character.' Now Lively and Reynolds, 49, want a judge to gag Baldoni's attorneys - led by Bryan Freedman (pictured) - and allege he has made false statements about the case Sources close to Baldoni told DailyMail.com called the gag order 'grossly unfair' This comes after Lively broke her silence on the unedited It Ends With Us footage released by Baldoni's legal team this week; Lively seen in 2024 'Every frame of the released footage corroborates, to the letter, what Ms. Lively described in Paragraph 48 of her Complaint.' Lively's lawyer also added that none of the intimacy shown in the video from the film which Baldoni directed and starred in alongside Lively was choreographed. 'Every moment of this was improvised by Mr. Baldoni with no discussion or consent in advance, and no intimacy coordinator present.' 'Mr. Baldoni was not only Ms. Livelys co-star, but the director, the head of studio and Ms. Livelys boss.' Lively's legal team claims that her 'leaning away' from Baldoni during the scene was not acting, and that the clips shows her 'repeatedly asking for the characters to just talk.' 'Any woman who has been inappropriately touched in the workplace will recognize Ms. Livelys discomfort.' 'They will recognize her attempts at levity to try to deflect the unwanted touching. No woman should have to take defensive measures to avoid being touched by their employer without their consent.' Her team claims that releasing the video to the media 'is another example of an unethical attempt to manipulate the public' and 'a continuation of their harassment and retaliatory campaign.' 'We are continuing our efforts to require Mr. Baldoni and his associates to answer in court, under oath, rather than through manufactured media stunts,' her lawyer stated. It was one of the biggest bombshells in a lawsuit packed full of them that Baldoni sexually harassed Lively while filming a dance scene by dragging his lips down her neck and telling her 'it smells so good'. In her civil rights complaint filed last month, the actress insisted nobody overheard the comment because the romantic montage was silent and the microphones were switched off. But DailyMail.com has exclusively obtained an explosive video where Baldonis sound equipment was switched on, showing all three takes. The tapes show how friendly the two stars were before it all went so wrong. They laugh and joke around even joshing about the size of Baldonis nose and talk about how they spend their time with their spouses. 'Justin Baldoni and his lawyer may hope that this latest stunt will get ahead of the damaging evidence against him, but the video itself is damning,' her lawyer stated; Baldoni seen in 2024 They include a complete record of the conversation in question at around the seven-minute mark that makes clear the comment about her smelling so good was in response to Lively talking about her spray tan as they film a romantic dance. Baldoni tells Lively he's probably getting his beard on her and she responds by saying shes probably getting spray tan on him. Then he quips back 'it smells good before both laugh and she tells him the scent actually comes from her body makeup. And while the montage does indeed show Baldoni nuzzling Livelys neck as part of the scene in which they play lovers, the conversation between them is all business with the pair spending most of it talking about lighting and their other halves. The clip, which is raw footage shot while filming It Ends With Us, comes complete with audio and was passed to DailyMail.com by the actors production company Wayfarer and his lawyer Bryan Freedman who has previously said Baldoni has 'nothing to hide'. DailyMail.coms exclusive footage is the latest revelation in a lengthy saga that began with rumors of rancor behind the scenes of It Ends With Us when it was released last August. It then exploded into a legal fight just before Christmas when the glamorous blonde sued Baldoni for sexual harassment. At the same time, the New York Times released a story based on Livelys legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a negative publicity campaign against her and put the smell claim front and center. In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and, last week, launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds that accused her of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career. Lively's legal team claims that her 'leaning away' from Baldoni during the scene was not acting; they are seen in 2024 on set The new clip, which Lively had previously insisted has no audio, begins with the pair discussing the scene with the actress telling Baldoni 'I'm off my mark. Ironically, at one point the pair are heard debating whether it is better to talk or kiss during the montage, with Lively arguing that chatting is 'more romantic' which Baldoni acquiesces to and then, when she wonders whether anyone will discover what theyre really talking about, quips Theyre never going to find out. Conversation then turns to their other halves, with Lively saying she and Reynolds talk all the time while Baldoni says he and wife Emily stare at each other for 10, literally like weve done it for five minutes. Lively then bursts into laughter as he tells her I think you would find it terrifying. When Lively continues to tell him about how she cant stop talking to Reynolds, Baldoni compliments: Oh, I think thats cute. You guys are really cute. Awkwardly, she replies I think its more than cute which he hastily agrees with, adding I think you guys are amazing. Baldoni, who directed as well as acted in It Ends With Us, then says he wants them to be filmed almost kissing, at which Lively then continues to talk insisting its more romantic to chat and not give the audience the smooch she says they want. She continues to talk before saying heads together, prompting both to lean their foreheads against each other. At that point, Lively begins talking about noses, telling Baldoni: I feel so nosey. Its just noses. Lively sued Baldoni in December for sexual harassment and the New York Times released a story based on Livelys legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a smear campaign In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds; Baldoni pictured in 2023 Baldoni then tells her my nose is so big to which she bursts into laughter, exclaiming: Yes. I was hoping we could address this. Just got to shut down, gotta call an insurance month and just deal with that. Just kidding. The clip then continues into the second take, with Baldoni heard giving instructions to the crew and discussing the scene with Lively. Then, just over seven minutes in, comes the critical conversation that appears to be the source of Livelys accusation which begins when Baldoni asks if Im getting beard on you. She laughs and says Im probably getting spray tan on you to which he replies it smells good and they both laugh. Lively then tells him: Well its not that, its my body makeup. As the extras erupt in cheers, Baldoni shouts cut! and tells her they have enough for a 17-minute reel. The final take, which focuses on their feet, includes audio of Baldoni telling Lively that Im going to let you direct this with the actress then insisting her heels arent cropped out because of the sparkle. DailyMail.coms explosive new clip comes less than five days since Baldonis lawsuit was filed and two weeks after the actress was accused of serving the actor and his team papers as they evacuated during the Los Angeles wildfires. Baldoni accused Lively of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career; Lively and Reynolds seen in 2024 In Baldonis suit, Lively is accused of failing to read the novel on which the book is based until long after filming had begun and orchestrating a negative publicity campaign of her own with the connivance of her own publicist Leslie Sloane and the New York Times. During one incident, according to the legal filing, Lively attempted to intimidate Baldoni by pointing to her famous husband and close friend Taylor Swift then comparing herself to Game of Thrones character Khaleesi and telling him I have a lot of dragons. The actress and her team are also accused of doctoring text conversations between Baldonis publicists to make them look damning and as if theyre plotting a smear campaign against her which led to both being subjected to social media abuse when the edited texts were published. Baldonis cross-complaint also revealed that he and his family had been forced to spend the premiere of It Ends With Us sitting in a basement because Lively refused to allow him to be in the same room as her. Kanye West's ex-assistant has asked a court to allow her to serve the rapper via a newspaper article after an investigation to pin down his whereabouts was unsuccessful, according to a new report. Lauren Pisciotta, 36, initially sued the 47-year-old rapper-turned-designer in June 2024, citing sexual harassment, breach of contract, and wrongful termination. The former Only Fans content creator went on to add sexual assault allegations to the complaint, claiming her beverage was spiked at a music studio session. West - who was last seen in Japan - has denied the allegations and called them 'baseless,' but the father-of-four has not formally responded to the lawsuit. The U.S. Sun reports that he has not even bothered to secure legal representation as Pisciotta's legal team scrambles to serve him. Kanye West's ex-assistant has asked a court to allow her to serve him via the media after an investigation to pin down his whereabouts was unsuccessful, according to a new account from The U.S. Sun Lauren Pisciotta, 36, initially sued the 47-year-old rapper-turned-designer in June 2024, citing sexual harassment, breach of contract, and wrongful termination Meanwhile, West has vacated his $10,000/month Los Angeles rental and is believed to have moved to Tokyo, Japan with wife Bianca Censori. The rap artist purchased a home in Beverly Hills last year, but the property is empty, the publication reported on Friday. His 30-year-old wife, however, has been spotted by herself in LA in recent months. Serving somebody via a newspaper is typically referred to as "service by publication" and is considered a last resort method of delivering legal documents. Court documents reviewed by the outlet state: 'Kanye West a/k/a YE has not been served despite extensive investigation and efforts to effectuate personal service. YEEZY Construction, Inc. appears to be a defunct entity. 'Plaintiff personally served the agents for service of process for Kanye West a/k/a YE's alter ego entities YEEZY, LLC, YEEZY FOOTWEAR, LLC, and YEEZY APPAREL, LLC. 'Their respective time to respond to the First Amended Complaint passed.' The destructive Los Angeles firestorms were named as a reason for delay in Pisciotta's legal pursuit. Per the documents, her reps shared, 'The end of year Holidays and the respective Eaton and Palisades fires have delayed Plaintiff getting before this Court ex parte to get an order allowing for service of Kanye West a/k/a YE by publication. 'Plaintiff intends to be before the Court in the next 5 10 business days.' As Pisciotta's legal team scrambles to locate and serve him, Kanye is believed to have moved to Japan with wife Bianca Censori; pictured in February 2024 West has denied the allegations brought against him and called them 'baseless,' but the father-of-four has not formally responded to his ex-assistant's lawsuit Lauren's latest court filing is dated January 22, and the imminent follow-up hearing is scheduled for January 29. Prior court correspondence shows her lawyers said her former employer Kanye 'is either out of the country and/or evading service.' The Sun notes that her team now plans to plant an ad in a newspaper as a last resort to inform West of the lawsuit. Pisciotta was employed by the Yeezy founder from 2021 to 2022 and she was allegedly promoted from Executive Assistant to Chief of Staff during that time. Love Island star Elma Pazar reportedly promised to send a secret signal to her TOWIE co-stars while filming in the All Stars villa in South Africa. The reality star, 32, who had her phone taken away before the series launched, has been off the grid for nearly a month. Meanwhile, her TOWIE pals have returned to work on the show's new series back in the UK. Close friend Harry Derbidge revealed Elma had vowed to make a peace sign as a subtle nod to her friends who are watching at home. He told The Sun: 'We asked her to sneak in a little signal so we'd know she's thinking of us. 'I've been keeping an eye out, but who knows if it'll make the final edit.' Love Island star Elma Pazar reportedly promised to send a secret signal to her TOWIE co-stars while filming in the All Stars villa in South Africa Close friend Harry Derbidge (pictured left with Elma middle and Amber Turner, right) revealed Elma had vowed to make a peace sign as a subtle nod to her friends who are watching at home Harry admitted her secret signal meant her TOWIE cast mates (pictured) would know she is thinking of them all before praising her for staying true to herself Elma, who is coupled up with Ronnie Vint in this years show first made a brief appearance on Love Island in 2019 alongside Maura Higgins. She has since found fame on ITVBe's The Only Way Is Essex. Harry praised Elma for staying true to herself in the villa, saying: 'She's just so funny with her one-liners. What you see on TV is exactly how she is in real life.' While Harry admitted it's been hard not speaking to Elma, who he talks to daily, he added that he's really proud and hopes she goes all the way. It comes after Ronnie's ex Harriett Blackmore made an explosive return to the villa on Thursday night as a bombshell, where she wasted no time in locking lips with her former flame, 28, during the kissing challenge. The juicy scenes saw Ronnie immediately recognise his ex's kiss and award it 10 points, much to the infuriation of Elma - who had earlier accidentally said 'I love you' to him. Later in the show, Ronnie publicly took Harriett to the terrace where they discussed their relationship, with the hunk admitting that all his feelings for Harriett were 'coming back', before declaring that 'it's always been you'. The declaration left Elma stunned as she and the rest of the girls were eavesdropping on the conversation just under the terrace. It comes after Ronnie who Elma is coupled up with had a shocl when his ex Harriett Blackmore made an explosive return to the villa on Thursday night as a bombshell Harriett, 24, wasted no time in locking lips with her former flame, 28, during the kissing challenge Ronnie awarded her 10 points for her snogging skills, much to the infuriation of his current partner Elma Pazar (pictured) - who had earlier accidentally said 'I love you' to him He later publicly took Harriett to the terrace where they discussed their relationship, with he candidly confessed that all his feelings for Harriett were 'coming back', and even admitted 'it's always been you' And on Friday's episode, after Ronnie told Harriett how he felt, she reported their conversation back to Grace Jackson and the other girls. Harriett admitted that she was unsure where she and Ronnie stood and explained: 'It went well, its a weird feeling because its hard not to fall back into routine 'I think he doesnt know how to feel and the way that we left it, it was very much on my terms.' Later, Ronnie pulled Elma for a chat and promised that he will be upfront with her, but that he needed a night to think on it. He admitted to her: 'Its thrown me and I just want to be honest with you. I feel like I havent been honest with you in certain situations' He continued: 'I need to sleep on it tonight and have a fresh conversation tomorrow.' On Friday's episode, after Ronnie told Harriett how he felt, she reported their conversation back to Grace Jackson and the other girls Ronnie pulled Elma for a chat and promised that he will be upfront with her, but that he needed a night to think on it Elma then retold the conversation to the girls afterwards and declares that: 'His heads spun!' Elma then retold the conversation to the girls afterwards and declares that: 'His heads spun!' Ronnie and Harriett then headed to the firepit for another chat, but things quickly get heated. Ronnie said: 'I've obviously just had a chat with Elma. Like the comment that I asked you to be my girlfriend three times, did it come from you?' Harriett replied: 'No, but it wasn't... What, was it said in that way?' as Ronnie said: 'Well yeah, it was like a muggy way.' Defending herself, Harriett reassured: 'It wasn't a muggy way Ronnie, calm down and I'll tell you what actually happened.' She explained: 'I was having my conversation with you, which I was gonna keep private. I came downstairs, the girls were all on me, so I just took bits of the conversation and just said how it went. Later in the episode Harriett chose to not pursue things with her ex for the time being and chose to couple up with Ron 'Anywho, they said "Well, it's just weird because he was basically saying he didn't really like you, his feelings were fake".' Confronting him, she asked: 'Did you say it was a showmance? Because every single girl there has said that you said it.' Ronnie denied the accusation saying: 'No, I haven't said it's a showmance once. What to these girls here?' As Harriett confirmed: 'Yeah like Kaz, Elma and all of them.' Ronnie then angrily jumped up and marched over to set the record straight. Also in the episode Harriett chose to not pursue things with her ex for the time being and chose to couple up with Ron. The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of rapper and producer DJ Unk, who has passed away at the age of 43. The Atlanta-based artist, born Anthony Leonard Platt, gained fame in the mid-2000s with his contributions to Southern hip-hop, particularly within the 'crunk' music subgenre. His wife Sherkita Long-Platt shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook Friday afternoon, writing, 'Please respect me and my family. I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.' DJ Unks career reached a pinnacle with his 2006 breakout hit Walk It Out from his debut album Beatin' Down Yo Block. The song also sparked a viral dance craze. His cause of death has not been officially confirmed, but TMZ reported that the rapper had been 'dealing with unspecified health issues' as far back as 2009. The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of rapper and producer DJ Unk, who has passed away at the age of 43; (pictured June 2023) The Atlanta-based artist, born Anthony Leonard Platt, gained fame in the mid-2000s with his contributions to Southern hip-hop, particularly within the 'crunk' music subgenre; (pictured in 2018) Following the success of Walk It Out, DJ Unk released his second album, The 69 Boyz (2007), which featured the hit single 2 Step. While it didnt achieve the same mainstream success as his debut, it helped solidify DJ Unks place within the Southern hip-hop scene. Fans quickly took to social media to share their condolences and heartfelt messages, with one tweeting, 'A real Atlanta legend.. May he rest in peace.' Another wrote, 'Shout out to DJ Unk, who passed away today at 43. Dude may have been one of, if not the first, ATL artists to have a local indie nightclub hit take off and go mainstream platinum in the early blogging/social media era.' Even the official Instagram account of Atlantas NFL team, the Falcons, paid tribute, posting, 'Rest in Peace, DJ Unk.' DJ Unks music became synonymous with the 'snap music' movement, a subgenre of Southern hip-hop known for its chill, rhythmic beats and the signature 'snap' sound. Alongside other artists like D4L, Dem Franchize Boyz, and Lil Jon, DJ Unk helped bring this sound to the forefront of the hip-hop scene in the mid-2000s. After his breakout success, particularly with the smash hit Walk It Out, DJ Unks mainstream presence started to fade. While he kept making music and performing, none of his later singles hit the same level of success as his debut track. Still, his impact on Southern hip-hop is undeniable, with his music shaping an entire era that dominated clubs and dance floors. His wife Sherkita Long-Platt shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook Friday afternoon 'Please respect me and my family. I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER,' his wife wrote Fans quickly took to social media to share their condolences and heartfelt messages, with one tweeting, 'A real Atlanta legend.. May he rest in peace' RIP DJ Unk pic.twitter.com/fOIQpVcnkb Complex Music (@ComplexMusic) January 25, 2025 DJ Unks career reached a pinnacle with his 2006 breakout hit Walk It Out from his debut album Beatin' Down Yo Block Even after the spotlight shifted, his contribution to the genre is still celebrated by fans and artists alike. DJ Unk's death comes just days after the heartbreaking news of Project Pats son, Patrick Houston Jr., being shot and killed in a Tennessee park last week at the age of just 21. Houston, who was also the nephew of Three 6 Mafia co-founder Juicy J, tragically lost his life in Imogene Heights, Memphis on Friday, according to TMZ. Memphis Police reported that the shooting occurred around 1:15 p.m. and that Houston Jr. was found dead at the scene by responding officers Alex Beresford and his pregnant wife Imogen looked happier than ever as they posed for sweet snaps at their baby shower. The Good Morning Britain star, 44, - who announced the pregnancy in September - beamed with pride as she stood next to his wife of two years, with Imogen, 30, seen carefully cradling her growing baby bump. The beauty, who along with business partner Nathan Cole is the co-founder of luxury gifting service Colford, looked radiant in a floaty white dress which she teamed with nude heels. The intimate gathering saw friends and family of the couple enjoy an afternoon tea at the Richmond hotel where they enjoyed a feast of finger sandwiches and fresh scones with clotted cream and jam washed down with English tea and champagne. The baby shower certainly made for an elegant affair with the tables adorned with 'paperwhite' narcissus flowers from the Isles of Scilly. Meanwhile, gifts for guests and the baby were wrapped by Imogen's gifting service Colford. Alex Beresford and his pregnant wife Imogen looked happier than ever as they posed for sweet snaps at their baby shower Imogen, 30, looked radiant in a floaty white dress which she teamed with nude heels as she carefully cradled her growing baby bump In a special touch, responsibly-sourced materials were used for the gifts, including recycled ribbons and Devon-made wrapping paper containing seeds that can be planted to grow bee-friendly flowers. Alex and Imogen are no doubt thrilled as they count down the days until they welcome their little one's arrival, who's due date is February. The baby news was announced back in September, which saw the weather presenter take to Instagram with a gushing post as he lovingly rested his hand on entrepreneur Imogen's blossoming bump. Alex, who shares 14-year-old son Cruz with ex partner Natalia Natkaniec, gushed the news was the greatest gift. Writing: 'The greatest gift. In awe of my beautiful wife growing Baby B. We can't wait to meet you. x'. Fans and famous friends rushed to the comments section to congratulate the couple including a whole host of Alex's GMB colleagues. Susanna Reid gushed: 'The best news - huge congratulations to you all' while Charlotte Hawkins wrote: 'Ahh massive congratulations!!!'. Adil Ray added: 'Congratulations you two'. The baby shower certainly made for an elegant affair with the tables adorned with 'paperwhite' narcissus flowers from the Isles of Scilly Meanwhile, gifts for guests and the baby were wrapped by Imogen's gifting service Colford In a special touch, responsibly-sourced materials were used for the gifts, including recycled ribbons and Devon-made wrapping paper containing seeds that can be planted to grow bee-friendly flowers This Morning's Ben Shephard agreed: 'Ahhh what wonderful news'. Meanwhile Loose Women's Charlene White commented: 'So excited for you both!!!' alongside Judi Love who said: 'Congratulations'. Alex married Imogen in a stunning Mallorca ceremony in September 2022 after he previously got down on one knee on the island. And at their wedding his son Cruz acted as ring bearer and his mini best man, while his brother and cousin performed the role of ushers, and his best friends both called Leon were his best men. The baby news was announced back in September, which saw the weather presenter take to Instagram with a gushing post as he lovingly rested his hand on entrepreneur Imogen's blossoming bump Alex wrote: 'The greatest gift. In awe of my beautiful wife growing Baby B. We can't wait to meet you. x' Alex married Imogen in a stunning Mallorca ceremony in September 2022 after he previously got down on one knee on the island Imogen's sisters, Helena and Georgia, were bridesmaids and led the bridal procession down the aisle to the foot of the white marble temple. Alex popped the question on New Year's Day while the pair were holidaying on a beach in Deia, Mallorca after two years of dating. A mutual friend set the lovebirds up on a blind date in August 2020 and the rest is history. To mark their special moment, the happy couple returned to the Spanish island to tie the knot at the picturesque Son Marroig estate. Zak Starkey, the son of Ringo Starr, is seen putting his feet up in new snaps following the discovery of a blood clot in his right leg. The musician, 59, was forced to cancel a show at London's Karma Sanctum Soho on Tuesday after he was diagnosed with the health condition. And days later, the Mantra of the Cosmos drummer is recovering at home, with Zak kicking back on his sofa amid his health issue. It's been said that Zak was sidelined to rest for two weeks by his doctors, The Independent, and prescribed blood thinners for the hazardous health condition. And the rocker certainly appeared to be content with his downtime as worked in his studio while elevating his feet. He was also seen scrolling on his phone during his break from work. Zak Starkey, the son of Ringo Starr , is seen putting his feet up in new snaps following the discovery of a blood clot in his right leg The musician, 59, was forced to cancel a show at London's Karma Sanctum Soho on Tuesday after he was diagnosed with the health condition Zak had been set to take the stage with his music group Mantra of the Cosmos when he received the alarming health alert, The Independent reported, leading him to withdraw from Tuesday's outing hours ahead of showtime. Starkey's bandmates - Happy Mondays vocalist Shaun Ryder, 62, Oasis guitarist Andy Bell, 54, and percussionist Mark 'Bez' Berry, 60 - remained at the venue on Tuesday. In lieu of a live show, patrons watched film of a performance from the group Sunday filmed in the hallowed Beatles ground of Liverpool at the Cavern Club. The Beatles had played their first show at the venue, according to the outlet. In addition to the musical milestone, the Cavern Club is also where Starr first crossed paths with Starkeys mother Maureen Tigrett, who the Beatle was wed to from 1965-1975. 'First of all, can I say how special it was to play the Cavern with Zak Starkey,' Berry said, according to the outlet. 'He's never been to the Cavern before and it felt special ... it was better than anything I ever imagined in my life.' Berry added, 'I couldn't believe how good it was ... to play there ... I had to show off right at the end. 'His f***ing dad's Ringo Starr! Know what I mean? We felt like the Beatles - well, I did for a little moment.' Days later, the Mantra of the Cosmos drummer is recovering at home, with Zak kicking back on his sofa amid his health issue It's been said that Zak was sidelined to rest for two weeks by his doctors, The Independent, and prescribed blood thinners for the hazardous health condition And the rocker certainly appeared to be content with his downtime as worked in his studio while elevating his feet He was also seen scrolling on his phone during his break from work The musician was making the most of his free time after being ordered to rest by medics Starkey told the BBC Monday prior to his health crisis that he felt as if he had been 'picked up and carried by the music' while performing at the Cavern Club. Starkey said, 'We set up two kits and we double drummed the Beatles show. I've never been nervous in my life - I've been on stage since I was 12 years old - but it's holy music. I know it, but I don't know the drum bit.' According to the United Kingdom's National Health Service, 'Blood clots can be very serious and need to be treated' immediately, as they 'can be life threatening if not treated quickly.' The NHS said that common symptoms of a blood clot consist of 'throbbing or cramping pain, swelling, redness and warmth in a leg or arm.' Other symptoms, according to the NHS, include 'sudden breathlessness, sharp chest pain (may be worse when you breathe in) and a cough or coughing up blood.' Zak had been set to take the stage with his music group Mantra of the Cosmos when he received the alarming health alert, leading him to withdraw hours ahead of showtime Zak's father Ringo Starr, 84, pictured in a portrait in West Hollywood, California on October 17, 2024 Starkey was pictured performing in June 2023 at the Visarno Arena in Florence, Italy at the Firenze Rocks Festival Starkey and Ringo Starr posed at an event in London on September 5, 2016 The U.K.'s healthcare system said that 'staying healthy and active can help prevent them.' Common measures practiced by high-risk patients include 'wearing stockings that improve your blood flow or taking medicine to reduce the risk of clots (anticoagulants),' the NHS said. To avoid blood clots, people are advised to stay active and walk regularly; stay hydrated by drinking water; keeping one's weight down; and wearing compression socks on flights. Common factors in people who have blood clots include cigarette smoking; alcohol consumption; and staying sedentary for extended stretches, said the NHS. Madeleine West stepped out for a solo outing near her home in Byron Bay on Saturday. The pregnant Neighbours star, 45, showed off her growing baby bump as she ran weekend errands alone. Wearing a tight-fitted black top, Madeleine looked content as she visited a grocery store to purchase some healthy pantry staples and household items. She paired her black top with a black longline vest and white shorts that showed off her trim pins, along with raffia heels. The actress had her brunette locks tied back in a high ponytail and appeared to go for a minimal and natural makeup palette for the day out. Pushing a shallow trolley, Madeleine appeared to opt for some very healthy grocery choices, including organic rice crackers and lemons. Madeleine West stepped out for a solo outing near her home in Byron Bay on Saturday The pregnant Neighbours star, 45, showed off her growing baby bump as she ran weekend errands alone Wearing a tight-fitted black top, Madeleine visited the local grocery store She was also seen greeting and embracing a young woman outside the store before struggling with her empty trolley upon returning it to the store. Last week, Madeleine announced she was pregnant with her seventh child - a decade on from her most recent birth. The star revealed the surprising news in an Instagram post. In the photo, the brunette displayed her growing baby bump in a tight-fitting tank top that was lifted to reveal her bare tummy. 'WHOOPS!' she captioned her post. 'Thought it was #perimenopause. I thought WRONG!' 'It's not too much Christmas pudding either. And I couldn't be happier. 'Not too sure about the title "Geriatric mum" but here we are, and I'm winding back a little to grow this little surprise package I've dubbed. (Baby number 7, couldn't help myself). 'I don't have much more to say right now, but I've noticed I don't hear much about older parents. l know you must be out there. Just seems we are invisible.' She was seen purchasing some healthy pantry staples and household items She paired her black top with a black longline vest and white shorts that showed off her trim pins Madeleine ramped up her look with a pair of raffia heels The actress sought advice for a 40s mother from her followers as she prepares for her seventh pregnancy. 'So if you're expecting later than expected, and tackling early in your 40s or 50s, I'd LOVE hear your stories,' she added. 'I'd love any tips you care to share. Like how the heck do you get all the #baby paraphernalia together again after you've given it all away???? 'There's a terrifying new world of contraptions out there and I don't know where to start!! HELP!!!' Madeleine's huge announcement was met with well wishes from her fans, friends and followers. 'Wow congratulations!!!' one user commented. 'Congrats to all , exciting times for your brood too,' added another. Someone else wrote: 'Holy hell woman! You look fabulous, congratulations.' She was also seen greeting and embracing a young woman outside the store The actress had her brunette locks tied back in a high ponytail Madeleine looked content during her low-key outing The 45-year-old put on a glowing display as she prepares to welcome her seventh child Madeleine later looked to be struggling with her empty trolley upon returning it to the store Madeleine already shares six children - Phoenix, 19, Hendrix, 16, Xascha, 14, Xanthe, 12, and twins Xalia and Margaux, 10 - with her ex-partner, celebrity chef Shannon Bennett, 49. The Australian star was most recently linked to Maximo Bottaro, who she dated for more than three years. It is unclear if the pair are still together as they have not been seen or pictured together since December 2023. In 2023, Madeleine said Maximo had been her biggest support when it comes to her mental health woes. 'I'm lucky to have someone who is evolved and compassionate enough to go on this journey with me without sugar-coating or trying to avoid the tough moments,' she told Stellar magazine. Meanwhile, Madeleine and her ex Shannon split after 13 years together in 2018, with Madeleine later stating the separation process 'turned love toxic'. Two years after their breakup, she left Melbourne and moved to the Byron Bay area to be near their six children, buying her own $4.6million property overlooking Tallow Beach. Madeleine spent 2023 embroiled in court battles with Benny Bennett, Shannon's elderly father, who took out an AVO against her after an alleged clash at the chef's Byron mansion in 2022. Pushing the shallow trolley, Madeleine appeared to opt for some very healthy grocery choices Last week, Madeleine announced she was pregnant with her seventh child It comes a decade on from her most recent birth A magistrate enforced the AVO describing Madeleine as an 'evasive' and unreliable witness, and her alleged treatment of her ex father-in-law, 76, as 'verging on being aggressive'. But the decision was thrown out when Madeleine appealed to the NSW District Court and won in a ruling by Judge Jonathan Priestley who said 'the evidence of facts supporting them is light on, and not supported by' the footage from five different CCTV cameras around Shannon Bennett's home. In January 2023, West revealed she was sexually abused from the age of five to 10. Her abuser was finally named this month. Peter Vincent White, 74, pleaded guilty to 33 charges of child sexual abuse against seven children, one of whom was the actress, who was then named Melanie Ann Weston. The actress appears to be quite far along in her pregnancy Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have doubled down on their request for a gag order in their ongoing legal battle with Lively's It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni. In a letter sent to Judge Lewis J. Liman on Friday evening, the couple's lawyer reiterated the need for the protective order to prevent 'extrajudicial statements' by Baldoni's legal team, according to Deadline. 'Requiring counsel to heed the ethical rules that bind them is not a gag order; it is a mechanism that would ensure the proceedings in this Court are not prejudiced by counsel's conduct outside of the courtroom,' attorney Esra Hudson wrote on behalf of the couple, per the outlet. 'The Wayfarer Parties are attempting to draw a dangerous false equivalence that may have profound consequences not just for this case, but for other women who are sexually harassed in the workplace given the high profile of this matter,' the four-page letter continued. Hudson also suggested that Baldoni's alleged smear campaign against Lively may still be ongoing. 'Even more troubling, however, is that the retaliation campaign that Ms. Lively alleged in her Complaint, with substantial supporting documentation, includes highly destructive behind-the-scenes elements, including the regular engagement of [Baldoni's crisis PR chief] Melissa Nathan with her vast tabloid media sources to influence a steady stream of negative media regarding Ms. Lively, as well as a sophisticated and 'untraceable' digital social media manipulation campaign designed to impact social media algorithms against Ms. Lively,' the actress' attorney stated. Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have doubled down on their request for a gag order in their ongoing legal battle with Lively's It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni; seen in August 2024 In a letter sent to Judge Lewis J. Liman on Friday evening, the couple's lawyer reiterated the need for the protective order to prevent 'extrajudicial statements' by Baldoni's legal team 'The Lively-Reynolds Parties are informed and believe that these efforts have continued unabated since the CRD Complaint was filed, and may have even been accelerated. The administration of justice in this case will be severely compromised if this behavior continues.' Earlier this week, Lively and Reynolds' legal team had requested the gag order to curb what they called 'improper conduct' by Baldoni's attorneys, citing an alleged 'harassing and retaliatory media campaign' against the couple. In response, Baldoni's attorney, Kevin Fritz, rejected the couple's request for a gag order in a letter to Judge Liman shortly after Tuesday's filing. The initial gag order request came after Baldoni's lawyer released a bombshell video showing Lively and Baldoni on the Ends With Us set. The explosive video, exclusively released by DailyMail.com, showed all three takes of a dance scene between Lively, 37, and Baldoni, 40 - revealing the pair were on apparent great terms before the actress accused him of sexual harassment. Lively in turn hit back at the clip's release, saying it proved that she was uncomfortable during the scene. 'Justin Baldoni and his lawyer may hope that this latest stunt will get ahead of the damaging evidence against him, but the video itself is damning,' her legal team shared in a statement with DailyMail.com. Her team claims the video 'shows Mr. Baldoni repeatedly leaning in toward Ms. Lively, attempting to kiss her, kissing her forehead, rubbing his face and mouth against her neck, flicking her lip with his thumb, caressing her, telling her how good she smells, and talking with her out of character.' 'Every frame of the released footage corroborates, to the letter, what Ms. Lively described in Paragraph 48 of her Complaint.' Lively's lawyer also added that none of the intimacy shown in the video from the film which Baldoni directed and starred in alongside Lively was choreographed. 'Requiring counsel to heed the ethical rules that bind them is not a gag order; it is a mechanism that would ensure the proceedings in this Court are not prejudiced by counsel's conduct outside of the courtroom,' attorney Esra Hudson wrote on behalf of the couple, per the outlet This comes after Lively broke her silence on the unedited It Ends With Us footage; Lively seen in 2024 'Every moment of this was improvised by Mr. Baldoni with no discussion or consent in advance, and no intimacy coordinator present.' 'Mr. Baldoni was not only Ms. Lively's co-star, but the director, the head of studio and Ms. Lively's boss.' Lively's legal team claims that her 'leaning away' from Baldoni during the scene was not acting, and that the clips shows her 'repeatedly asking for the characters to just talk.' 'Any woman who has been inappropriately touched in the workplace will recognize Ms. Lively's discomfort.' 'They will recognize her attempts at levity to try to deflect the unwanted touching. No woman should have to take defensive measures to avoid being touched by their employer without their consent.' Her team claims that releasing the video to the media 'is another example of an unethical attempt to manipulate the public' and 'a continuation of their harassment and retaliatory campaign.' 'We are continuing our efforts to require Mr. Baldoni and his associates to answer in court, under oath, rather than through manufactured media stunts,' her lawyer stated. It was one of the biggest bombshells in a lawsuit packed full of them that Baldoni sexually harassed Lively while filming a dance scene by dragging his lips down her neck and telling her 'it smells so good'. In her civil rights complaint filed last month, the actress insisted nobody overheard the comment because the romantic montage was silent and the microphones were switched off. But DailyMail.com has exclusively obtained an explosive video where Baldoni's sound equipment was switched on, showing all three takes. The tapes show how friendly the two stars were before it all went so wrong. They laugh and joke around even joshing about the size of Baldoni's nose and talk about how they spend their time with their spouses. 'Every moment of this was improvised by Mr. Baldoni with no discussion or consent in advance, and no intimacy coordinator present'; Lively seen in 2024 They include a complete record of the conversation in question at around the seven-minute mark that makes clear the comment about her smelling so good was in response to Lively talking about her spray tan as they film a romantic dance. Baldoni tells Lively he's probably getting his beard on her and she responds by saying she's probably getting spray tan on him. Then he quips back 'it smells good' before both laugh and she tells him the scent actually comes from her body makeup. And while the montage does indeed show Baldoni nuzzling Lively's neck as part of the scene in which they play lovers, the conversation between them is all business with the pair spending most of it talking about lighting and their other halves. The clip, which is raw footage shot while filming It Ends With Us, comes complete with audio and was passed to DailyMail.com by the actor's production company Wayfarer and his lawyer Bryan Freedman who has previously said Baldoni has 'nothing to hide'. DailyMail.com's exclusive footage is the latest revelation in a lengthy saga that began with rumors of rancor behind the scenes of It Ends With Us when it was released last August. It then exploded into a legal fight just before Christmas when the glamorous blonde sued Baldoni for sexual harassment. At the same time, the New York Times released a story based on Lively's legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a negative publicity campaign against her and put the smell claim front and center. In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and, last week, launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds that accused her of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career. Lively's legal team claims that her 'leaning away' from Baldoni during the scene was not acting; they are seen in 2024 on set The new clip, which Lively had previously insisted has no audio, begins with the pair discussing the scene with the actress telling Baldoni 'I'm off my mark'. Ironically, at one point the pair are heard debating whether it is better to talk or kiss during the montage, with Lively arguing that chatting is 'more romantic' which Baldoni acquiesces to and then, when she wonders whether anyone will discover what they're really talking about, quips 'They're never going to find out'. Conversation then turns to their other halves, with Lively saying she and Reynolds talk 'all the time' while Baldoni says he and wife Emily stare at each other 'for 10, literally like we've done it for five minutes'. Lively then bursts into laughter as he tells her 'I think you would find it terrifying'. When Lively continues to tell him about how she can't stop talking to Reynolds, Baldoni compliments: 'Oh, I think that's cute. You guys are really cute.' Awkwardly, she replies 'I think it's more than cute' which he hastily agrees with, adding 'I think you guys are amazing.' Baldoni, who directed as well as acted in It Ends With Us, then says he wants them to be filmed almost kissing, at which Lively then continues to talk insisting its more romantic to chat and not give the audience the smooch she says they want. She continues to talk before saying 'heads together', prompting both to lean their foreheads against each other. At that point, Lively begins talking about noses, telling Baldoni: 'I feel so nosey. It's just noses'. Lively sued Baldoni for sexual harassment just before Christmas In turn, Baldoni sued The New York Times for defamation and launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds; Baldoni pictured in 2023 Baldoni then tells her 'my nose is so big' to which she bursts into laughter, exclaiming: 'Yes. I was hoping we could address this. Just got to shut down, gotta call an insurance month and just deal with that. Just kidding.' The clip then continues into the second take, with Baldoni heard giving instructions to the crew and discussing the scene with Lively. Then, just over seven minutes in, comes the critical conversation that appears to be the source of Lively's accusation which begins when Baldoni asks 'if I'm getting beard on you'. She laughs and says 'I'm probably getting spray tan on you' to which he replies 'it smells good' and they both laugh. Lively then tells him: 'Well it's not that, it's my body makeup.' As the extras erupt in cheers, Baldoni shouts 'cut!' and tells her they have enough for a 17-minute reel. The final take, which focuses on their feet, includes audio of Baldoni telling Lively that 'I'm going to let you direct this' with the actress then insisting her heels aren't cropped out 'because of the sparkle'. DailyMail.com's explosive new clip comes less than five days since Baldoni's lawsuit was filed and two weeks after the actress was accused of serving the actor and his team papers as they evacuated during the Los Angeles wildfires. Baldoni accused Lively of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career; Lively and Reynolds seen in 2024 In Baldoni's suit, Lively is accused of failing to read the novel on which the book is based until long after filming had begun and orchestrating a negative publicity campaign of her own with the connivance of her own publicist Leslie Sloane and the New York Times. During one incident, according to the legal filing, Lively attempted to intimidate Baldoni by pointing to her famous husband and close friend Taylor Swift then comparing herself to Game of Thrones character Khaleesi and telling him 'I have a lot of dragons'. The actress and her team are also accused of doctoring text conversations between Baldoni's publicists to make them look damning and as if they're plotting a smear campaign against her which led to both being subjected to social media abuse when the edited texts were published. Baldoni's cross-complaint also revealed that he and his family had been forced to spend the premiere of It Ends With Us sitting in a basement because Lively refused to allow him to be in the same room as her. Kylie Jenner put on a sizzling display as she stripped down to her undergarments to promote the latest collection from her clothing brand Khy. The makeup mogul, 27, struck a seductive pose while modeling a black vinyl bra and high-legged panties paired with sheer stockings. She layered up the busty lingerie look with a The Matrix-inspired black faux leather trench coat from Khy. She stood on tall stiletto heels as she smoldered for the camera with strands of her voluminous brunette hair falling in front of her face. Jenner whose boyfriend is up for an Oscar opted for a natural glam makeup look that highlighted her famously plump pout. 'The new KHY Faux Leather Trench Coat has arrived, perfectly paired with our new Faux Leather Twist Bralette,' Jenner penned on Instagram, where the photos were shared Friday. Kylie Jenner put on a sizzling display as she stripped down to her undergarments to promote the latest collection from her clothing brand Khy The makeup mogul, 27, struck a seductive pose while modeling a black vinyl bra and high-legged panties paired with sheer stockings She revealed that her 394million fans can get their hands on the new Khy pieces starting January 28. 'Both dropping 01/28 exclusively on khy.com,' Jenner wrote. Just one day prior, Jenner stunned in another batch of Khy campaign images for the line's faux fur collection. The billionaire beauty who recently thanked firefighters in LA uploaded two flawless photos in a joint post with the clothing brand, which Jenner launched in late 2023. The Kardashians personality posed in a floor-length brown faux fur coat, adding sheer black pantyhose and pointy-toe, black heels. She was holding a red rose in time for Valentine's Day as the petals fell to the floor. 'Introducing the latest from KHY: wardrobe essentials reimagined in faux fur and leather,' the caption said. 'Effortless, elevated, and perfect for every occasionthis collection is designed to make a statement wherever you go. Your new go-to pieces dropping 01/28 on khy.com,' the caption read. It comes amid Jenner's boyfriend Timothee Chalamet's Oscar nomination for his role as Bob Dylan in the biopic A Complete Unknown. She layered up the busty lingerie look with a The Matrix-inspired black faux leather trench coat from Khy Just one day prior, Jenner stunned in another batch of Khy campaign images for the line's faux fur collection The billionaire beauty uploaded two flawless photos in a joint post with her clothing brand, which she launched in late 2023 'Introducing the latest from KHY: wardrobe essentials reimagined in faux fur and leather,' the social media post teased Jenner surprised fans when she introduced her clothing line in October 2023. She debuted the sartorial undertaking with a single photo of herself donning a black faux leather trench coat with zipper details. In the caption, she wrote, 'meet khy,' and tagged its Instagram handle on the snap. Accompanying the arrival of the range was a Wall Street Journal cover story describing her latest entrepreneurial pursuit. Jenner and Chalamet, 29, were not shy about packing on the PDA inside the Golden Globes earlier this month, but they have notoriously kept their nearly two-year-long romance private. The mother-of-two, who shares six-year-old daughter Stormi and two-year-old son Aire (who both have birthdays in early February) with ex-boyfriend Travis Scott, has never posted her new lover Timothee on her social media accounts. It marks a sharp contrast from her prior relationship with Scott, which she proudly flaunted in the public eye. The Kylie Cosmetics founder and Hollywood hunk have only been pictured together a handful of times since publicly launching their relationship in late 2023. It comes amid Jenner's boyfriend Timothee Chalamet's Oscar nomination; the couple pictured at the Golden Globes on January 5 Chalamet has been nominated in the Best Actor category for his role as Bob Dylan in the biopic A Complete Unknown Chalamet has been nominated for an Oscar in the Best Actor category for his portrayal of Bob Dylan. He will face off with Adrien Brody for The Brutalist, Colman Domingo for Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes for Conclave and Sebastian Stan for The Apprentice. Timothee was previously nominated in the category in 2018 for his lauded performance in Call Me By Your Name. The Dune star is the ceremony's youngest two-time Best Actor nominee since James Dean, who died at age 24. Justin Baldoni's wife Emily broke her silence to wish him a happy 41st birthday - amid his legal fight against Blake Lively. Emily shared a sweet snap of her and Justin with their two children: Maiya, nine, and Maxwell, seven. 'Happy birthday my love. Celebrating the man, husband, and father that you are. I'd choose you again and again.' The family of four have been on holiday in Hawaii, and it appears the photo is from their current vacation. In the snap, Emily and Justin share a kiss as he holds Maxwell on his shoulders and Maiya cuddles them. The sweet note comes after his lawyers hit back at Blake and her husband Ryan Reynolds' gag order and claims she started a 'media feeding frenzy' - amid their lawsuits. Justin Baldoni's wife Emily broke her silence to wish him a happy 41st birthday - amid his legal fight against Blake Lively The legal fight erupted just before Christmas when the glamorous blonde, 37, sued It Ends With Us co-star Baldoni, 41 for sexual harassment. At the same time, the New York Times released a story based on Livelys legal filing that accused him of orchestrating a negative publicity campaign against her and put the small claim front and center. In turn, Baldoni sued the Times for defamation and launched a $400m lawsuit against Lively and her husband Reynolds that accused her of using her celebrity power to hijack his film and attempt to torpedo his career. After Lively and Reynolds asked for a protective order Tuesday against Baldoni's legal team, the same day a bombshell video was released by lead attorney Bryan Freedman, Baldoni's attorney Kevin Fritz has branded the proposed order an 'intimidation tactic.' In a letter dated January 23 and obtained by People, Fritz asks for the judge to deny the order, writing Lively's 'desire to force the Wayfarer Parties to defend themselves privately against allegations made publicly is not a proper basis for a gag order. It is tactical gamesmanship, and it is outrageous.' Fritz says Baldoni and his colleagues at Wayfarer Studios have been 'exiled from polite society and suffered damages totaling hundreds of millions of dollars' as a result of Lively's lawsuit. They say Baldoni faced 'utterly calamitous fallout, and they 'instantly became objects of public scorn and contempt.' Fritz claims Lively ignited a 'media feeding frenzy' by allegedly giving the New York Times a copy of her complaint for their article. Emily shared a sweet snap of her and Justin with their two children: Maiya, nine, and Maxwell, seven; seen together December 9, 2019 in LA This comes after DailyMail.com revealed Lively and Reynolds will be subpoenaed for all texts, emails, and messages sent about Baldoni and the film It Ends With Us 'imminently'. The high-flying Hollywood couple were both named as defendants in a blockbuster lawsuit filed by the actor earlier this month, which could see them facing a $400million payout if he prevails. Both Lively and Reynolds along with their PR supremo Leslie Sloane, are also being hit with deposition requests which will see the pair ordered to provide hours of testimony and be quizzed by Baldoni's lawyers. A source familiar with the proceedings told DailyMail.com: 'Unequivocally yes, all parties should be aware that they will be subpoenaed and deposed imminently'. The impending subpoenas are a further sign that the gloves are coming off in the epic legal battle between glamorous blonde Lively and saturnine director Baldoni. They claimed Freedman is 'violating court rules that stop a lawyer from making statements to the press that are irrelevant to a case and might prejudice the jury.' They specifically mention the release of the unedited footage. Sources close to Baldoni told DailyMail.com they believe it's 'grossly unfair to impose a gag order after Justin has been defamed by the New York Times in an article that they say has cost him three jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars. 'All Justin wants to do is release videos and text messages to prove the allegations are false. 'It is unbelievable that Blake Lively would go on a takedown campaign against Justin and then immediately turn around and say she wants a gag order so that Justin can't defend himself.' This comes after Lively broke her silence on the unedited footage. 'Justin Baldoni and his lawyer may hope that this latest stunt will get ahead of the damaging evidence against him, but the video itself is damning,' her legal team shared in a statement with DailyMail.com. The sweet note comes after his lawyers hit back at Blake and her husband Ryan Reynolds' gag order and claims she started a 'media feeding frenzy' - amid their lawsuits Her team claims the video 'shows Mr. Baldoni repeatedly leaning in toward Ms. Lively, attempting to kiss her, kissing her forehead, rubbing his face and mouth against her neck, flicking her lip with his thumb, caressing her, telling her how good she smells, and talking with her out of character.' 'Every frame of the released footage corroborates, to the letter, what Ms. Lively described in Paragraph 48 of her Complaint.' Lively's lawyer also added that none of the intimacy shown in the video from the film which Baldoni directed and starred in alongside Lively was choreographed. 'Every moment of this was improvised by Mr. Baldoni with no discussion or consent in advance, and no intimacy coordinator present.' 'Mr. Baldoni was not only Ms. Livelys co-star, but the director, the head of studio and Ms. Livelys boss.' Lively's legal team claims that her 'leaning away' from Baldoni during the scene was not acting, and that the clips shows her 'repeatedly asking for the characters to just talk.' 'Any woman who has been inappropriately touched in the workplace will recognize Ms. Livelys discomfort.' 'They will recognize her attempts at levity to try to deflect the unwanted touching. No woman should have to take defensive measures to avoid being touched by their employer without their consent.' The legal fight erupted just before Christmas when Lively, 37, sued It Ends With Us co-star Baldoni, 41 for sexual harassment Her team claims that releasing the video to the media 'is another example of an unethical attempt to manipulate the public' and 'a continuation of their harassment and retaliatory campaign.' 'We are continuing our efforts to require Mr. Baldoni and his associates to answer in court, under oath, rather than through manufactured media stunts,' her lawyer stated. It was one of the biggest bombshells in a lawsuit packed full of them that Baldoni sexually harassed Lively while filming a dance scene by dragging his lips down her neck and telling her 'it smells so good'. In her civil rights complaint filed last month, the actress insisted nobody overheard the comment because the romantic montage was silent and the microphones were switched off. But DailyMail.com has exclusively obtained an explosive video where Baldonis sound equipment was switched on, showing all three takes. The tapes show how friendly the two stars were before it all went so wrong. They laugh and joke around even joshing about the size of Baldonis nose and talk about how they spend their time with their spouses. They include a complete record of the conversation in question at around the seven-minute mark that makes clear the comment about her smelling so good was in response to Lively talking about her spray tan as they film a romantic dance. Baldoni tells Lively he's probably getting his beard on her and she responds by saying shes probably getting spray tan on him. Then he quips back 'it smells good before both laugh and she tells him the scent actually comes from her body makeup. After Lively and Reynolds asked for a protective order Tuesday against Baldoni's legal team, Baldoni's attorney branded the proposed order an 'intimidation tactic'; Lively seen in 2024 And while the montage does indeed show Baldoni nuzzling Livelys neck as part of the scene in which they play lovers, the conversation between them is all business with the pair spending most of it talking about lighting and their other halves. The clip, which is raw footage shot while filming It Ends With Us, comes complete with audio and was passed to DailyMail.com by the actors production company Wayfarer and his lawyer Bryan Freedman who has previously said Baldoni has 'nothing to hide'. DailyMail.coms exclusive footage is the latest revelation in a lengthy saga that began with rumors of rancor behind the scenes of It Ends With Us when it was released last August. Naomi Watts looked to be in great spirits on Friday when she was spotted taking a stylish stroll through the trendy streets of Tribeca in New York City. The veteran actress, 56, effortlessly turned heads with her laid-back yet polished look as she confidently ran errands in the upmarket area. The English-born star sported a chic, unbuttoned black jacket paired with a vibrant blue patterned dress that flowed beautifully as she strolled down the scenic street. Naomi completed her look with a pair of black heels, which showcased the perfect balance of comfort and high-fashion. With her hair tousled into soft waves and a fresh, natural makeup look, the King Kong star looked decades younger than her years. She accessorised with a sophisticated black designer handbag draped over her shoulder, while casually holding her iPhone in hand, completing the effortlessly chic ensemble. Naomi Watts (pictured) looked to be in great spirits on Friday when she was spotted taking a stylish stroll through the trendy streets of Tribeca in New York City The veteran actress, 56, effortlessly turned heads with her laid-back yet polished look The English-born star sported a chic, unbuttoned black jacket paired with a vibrant blue patterned dress that flowed beautifully as she strolled down the scenic street The star exuded confidence and grace with every step, effortlessly commanding attention in the bustling streets of Tribeca. Her timeless style and ageless beauty continue to make her a fashion icon, both on and off the red carpet. In her new memoir Dare I Say It, Naomi candidly discusses everything from going through menopause at the age of 36 to finding love with her husband Billy Crudup. She admitted she wasn't looking for love when her paths crossed with Billy while she was filming Netflix thriller Gypsy - shortly after her 2016 split from actor Liev Schreiber. Naomi said a relationship with Billy - who played her on-screen husband - was the furthest thing from her mind, despite the fact they had 'simulated sex on screen many times, dry-humping each other to the point of exhaustion'. However, Naomi began to see Billy in a different light after one of their steamy scenes when he 'spontaneously flung a pillow across the room while ravishing me with such passion I blushed and broke character'. She was particularly taken aback by the moment because her sex drive had reduced in the years since experiencing menopause. With her hair tousled into soft waves and a fresh, natural makeup look, the King Kong star looked decades younger than her years She accessorised with a sophisticated black designer handbag draped over her shoulder, while casually holding her iPhone in hand, completing the effortlessly chic ensemble The star had paid a visit to Hermes and was carrying a paper bag from the designer store The star exuded confidence and grace with every step, effortlessly commanding attention in the bustling streets of Tribeca Her timeless style and ageless beauty continue to make her a fashion icon, both on and off the red carpet Recalling their first time together, Naomi said she excused herself to go to the bathroom and remove her hormone therapy patch - but became conscious after it left a mark on her body. Naomi dwelled on how Billy might react to her being menopausal, while worrying about whether he wanted more children, for so long that Billy eventually called out to her. 'I came out mortified,' she admitted, before telling him everything about being in early menopause. 'I wear these hormone patches, and I didn't want you to see it because then you would know I'm in early menopause, which means I am old, and you wouldn't want me and, oh my God, should I just leave?' Naomi recalled their conversation. However, Billy's response instantly quelled her fears about ageing, as he quipped: 'Hey, if it makes you feel better, I've got grey hair down there.' In her new memoir Dare I Say It, Naomi candidly discusses everything from going through menopause at the age of 36 to finding love with her husband Billy Crudup Naomi admits she wasn't looking for love when her paths crossed with Billy while she was filming Netflix thriller Gypsy - shortly after her 2016 split from actor Liev Schreiber Naomi said a relationship with Billy - who played her on-screen husband - was the furthest thing from her mind, despite the fact that they had 'simulated sex on screen many times, dry-humping each other to the point of exhaustion' However, Naomi began to see Billy in a different light after one of their steamy scenes when he 'spontaneously flung a pillow across the room while ravishing me with such passion that I blushed and broke character' Naomi and Billy tied the knot in June 2023 at a New York City courthouse, before celebrating with their loved ones at a larger ceremony in Mexico City a year later The actress was in a previous relationship with actor Liev Schreiber from 2005 until their split in 2016 after 11 years together Despite the separation, both she and Liev still remain in each other's lives as they co-parent their two children Sasha, 17, and Kai, 16 It looked to be a fun outing for the esteemed actress Describing his admission as the 'most romantic words I've ever heard', she praised Billy for being 'compassionate, not squeamish or awkward'. In that moment, Naomi added, all the shame she was carrying was washed away. Naomi and Billy tied the knot in June 2023 at a New York City courthouse, before celebrating with their loved ones at a larger ceremony in Mexico City a year later. Naomi was in a previous relationship with actor Liev Schreiber from 2005 until their split in 2016 after 11 years together. Despite the separation, both she and Liev still remain in each other's lives as they co-parent their two children Sasha, 17, and Kai, 16. Billy is also father to son William, 20, with whom he shares with ex Mary-Louise Parker - The pair previously dated from 1996 through 2003. Olivia Colman and Cynthia Erivo led the British contingent at a star-studded Sundance Film Festival event on Friday night. The Oscar-winner, 50, joined the Wicked actress, 38, in a matching all-black outfit at the Celebrating Sundance Institute Gala in Park City, Utah. Olivia premiered her film Jimpa with co-star John Lithgow, wearing a black collarless jacket and a pair of baggy black trousers. She completed the look with a pair of pointy white shoes which featured a black trim with a jagged pattern, adding two green and four silver face gems. Cynthia, who has been nominated for an Academy Award for her role in the film Wicked, looked in great spirits as she collected the Sundance Institute Visionary Award. The star matched a black belted jacket with a black midi dress, which featured a cutaway zip. Olivia Colman led the British contingent at a star-studded Sundance Film Festival event on Friday night She joined Wicked actress Cynthia Erivo, 38, in a matching all-black outfit at the Celebrating Sundance Institute Gala in Park City, Utah Cynthia, who has been nominated for an Academy Award for her role in the film Wicked, looked in great spirits as she collected the Sundance Institute Visionary Award She completed the look with black shoes and tights and accessorised with long acrylic nails with gem stones and gold hooped earrings. Also present were Mad Men actor Jon Hamm, wearing a grey jacket over a black turtleneck, and talkshow host Conan O'Brien, who kept warm in subzero Utah with a navy padded jacket over some blue jeans. It comes after Sex And The City icon Sarah Jessica Parker was spotted at the Festival in support of her The Librarians documentary. The longtime actress, 59, kept warm in a layered ensemble that included a billowy dark gray dress with ruffles, a lighter gray chunky knit sweater, and tall, purple, suede boots. She arrived in a cozy black winter coat with a hood and oversized sporty and chic black sunglasses. The And Just Like That... star flashed her megawatt smile in a subtle face of makeup that gave her visage a glowy finish. At one event, she sat down with Variety to discuss the fight against book bans. In Jimpa, Olivia plays a mother who begins questioning her own parenting after taking her non-binary child to visit their gay grandfather, played by John, in Amsterdam. Also present was Mad Men actor Jon Hamm, who wore a grey jacket over a black turtleneck Talkshow host Conan O'Brien was also in attendance and he kept warm in subzero Utah with a navy padded jacket over some blue jeans Sarah Jessica Parker looked great on Friday as she attended Sundance Film Festival in support of her The Librarians documentary Ariana Grande, 31 and Cynthia, 38, were among the big names who landed coveted nods at Thursday's Academy Award nominations event Cynthia's appearance at the Sundance event comes after she joined Wicked co-star Ariana Grande at a lunch reception in London on Wednesday, amid the duo's Oscar nominations. The actress wrapped up warm in a long fluffy trench coat, which she layered over a dazzling silver dress. The Oscar-nominated star added a slew of silver jewellery, including a chunky pair of hoops. The pair's smash hit musical landed 10 nominations in total, marking a significant milestone for the Broadway adaptation - with Ariana and Cynthia also earning a place in the individual categories. Deborra-Lee Furness was all smiles as she made a fashion statement on Saturday at the Australian Open in Melbourne. The 69-year-old actress turned heads in a cream outfit that exuded elegance and confidence. The Jindabyne star stole the spotlight in a flowing, long-line cream tunic layered over matching tailored trousers, as she embraced a contemporary yet effortlessly chic look. Her monochrome ensemble was paired with edgy platform sneakers, which added a touch of youthful playfulness to her sophisticated appearance. The outfit was further elevated by a delicate gold necklace and subtle makeup that highlighted her natural beauty. Deborra-Lees platinum blonde locks were styled in a sleek, modern cut, which perfectly complemented her radiant appearance. Deborra-Lee Furness (pictured) was all smiles as she made a fashion statement on Saturday at the Australian Open in Melbourne The 69-year-old actress turned heads in a cream outfit that exuded elegance and confidence The Jindabyne star stole the spotlight in a flowing, long-line cream tunic layered over matching tailored trousers, as she embraced a contemporary yet effortlessly chic look Her confident pose and warm demeanor on the red carpet captivated attendees, leaving no doubt as to why she remains a style icon. The appearance comes amid recent headlines about her ex-husband, Hugh Jackman, who recently confirmed his relationship with Broadway star Sutton Foster. However, Deborra-Lee showed no signs of being fazed by the media buzz, as she looked to be having the time of her life at the event. Her bold choice of outfit demonstrated her ability to balance comfort and high fashion, making her a stand out at one of Melbourne's most renowned events. Deborra-Lee's outing comes just days after Hugh was spotted kissing Sutton Foster for the first time since their relationship was exposed. Hugh and Sutton, 49, looked deeply in love and couldn't keep their hands off each other as they repeatedly kissed while in the car at a San Fernando In-N-Out. Sutton was seen tenderly cradling Jackman's face as they locked lips while waiting to order the fast food in the drive-thru line - days before the LA fires broke out. The outing came after the Logan star attended a performance of Foster's production of Once Upon A Mattress in Los Angeles over the weekend. Her monochrome ensemble was paired with edgy platform sneakers, which added a touch of youthful playfulness to her sophisticated look The outfit was further elevated by a delicate gold necklace and subtle makeup that highlighted her natural beauty Deborra-Lees platinum blonde locks were styled in a sleek, modern cut, perfectly complementing her radiant appearance Her confident pose and warm demeanor on the red carpet captivated attendees, leaving no doubt as to why she remains a style icon She looked to be having the time of her life at the world-famous event The pair were later seen holding hands on a date in Santa Monica. The two stars had previously shared the stage on Broadway when the played the leads in an acclaimed production of the classic musical The Music Man. Foster filed for an uncontested divorce from her husband Ted Griffin in October of last year. She had been married to the 53-year-old Ocean's Eleven screenwriter for 10 years. Foster and Jackman have been swarmed in recent months by rumors that an affair between the two scuttled their marriages. Hugh and Deborra-Lee announced that they were dissolving their 27-year marriage in September 2023. 'We have been blessed to share almost 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,' the couple said in a statement obtained by People. 'Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.' 'Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. 'We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives.' The Australian couple share two children together; Oscar, 24, and Ava, 19. Arnold Schwarzenegger enjoyed a cheeky smooch with a woman during a visit to an Austrian ski resort on Friday. The Hollywood actor, 77, proudly held up a string of traditional white sausages as he tucked in at the annual Weiwurstparty in Going in his home country. Sporting a thick white beard, the Terminator icon cracked a joke as he chatted with representatives from the Stanglwirt hotel. Arnold wore a grey jacket over a navy sweater, adding a pair of mid blue jeans and a silver necklace, as he displayed the set of Bavarian sausages which were hung over a long wooden spoon. He was joined by German actor and former bodbuilder Ralf Moeller, who donned an olive-coloured traditional Bavarian jacket. The yearly event takes place before the Austrian Ski Federation downhill skiers take to the slopes and welcomes some 2,800 guests to try a range of traditional food. Arnold Schwarzenegger enjoyed a cheeky smooch with a woman during a visit to an Austrian ski resort on Friday The Hollywood actor, 77, proudly held up a string of traditional white sausages as he tucked in at the annual Weiwurstparty in Going in his home country It comes after the former bodybuilder continued to film his Christmas movie, The Man With The Bag, in New York City last week despite his Brentwood mansion continuing to be threatened by the LA fires. The action icon sported a dyed white beard, festive jumper, bobble hat and a red coat as he filmed a scene as Santa Claus in Manhattan, days after thanking firefighters and emergency personnel for fighting the fires 'around the clock'. The superstar's Brentwood, California mansion has been under threat from the Pacific Palisades fire which caused a wave of destruction and evacuations. The star previously took to X to thank fans for their concern amid the disaster, writing: 'I really appreciate all of the kind messages and concern. But dont worry about me, or my animals, and certainly not my house. 'I would rather you focus all of your thoughts on these heroic firefighters and first responders who are fighting an impossible battle around the clock.' The fires were sparked by the Santa Ana winds, which saw gusts of up to 80 to 100mph as fire fighters tried to get a handle on the blazes. Entire neighborhoods in Pacific Palisades and Altadena were wiped off the map due to the blazes, causing thousands to evacuate and at least 28 deaths. Arnold, who is renowned for his many roles in action movies, is back filming his first festive film in nearly three decades. Sporting a thick white beard, the Terminator icon cracked a joke as he chatted with representatives from the Stanglwirt hotel Arnold wore a grey jacket over a navy sweater, adding some mid blue jeans and a silver necklace, as he displayed the Bavarian sausages which were hung over a long wooden spoon He was joined by German actor and former bodbuilder Ralf Moeller, who donned an olive-coloured traditional Bavarian jacket The superstar's Brentwood, California mansion has been under threat from the Pacific Palisades fire which is now at 22 per cent containment Arnold previously appeared in the 1996 Christmas family comedy Jingle All The Way as a workaholic father on a mission to get his son a sold-out action figure, which results in him learning the real meaning of Christmas. The former governor of California, who recently became a grandfather for the third time, joins a long list of actors that have played Father Christmas, including Ben Affleck, Tim Allen, Billy Bob Thornton and Kurt Russell. News first broke that the Hollywood legend would be starring in another Christmas comedy back in March. Arnold was married to Maria Schriver for 35 years but the couple separated in 2011 and divorced 10 years later. He is father to five children: daughters Katherine, 35, and Christina, 31, and sons Patrick, 31, Christopher, 27, and Joseph, 27. He shares all his children with Maria, apart from Joseph, whose mother is Mildred Patricia Baena, his longtime housekeeper. Carrie Bickmore was turning heads on Saturday night. The star attended the Australian Open in Melbourne, where she caught the Women's Singles Final between Aryna Sabalenka and Madison Keys. The Hit Network radio host, 44, opted for a short, flirty animal print jumpsuit, her trim pins on display. The media personality added a pair of strappy, towering heels and carried a cream shoulder bag. Carrie opted for a warm, peachy makeup look with lots of highlighter and a pink lip gloss. She wore her blonde hair in soft, retro waves and added a pair of gold, dangling earrings to the look. Carrie Bickmore (pictured) was turning heads on Saturday night. The star attended the Australian Open in Melbourne where she caught the Women's Singles Final The Hit Network radio host, 44, opted for a short, flirty animal print jumpsuit, her trim pins on display Carrie was later spotted in the stands enjoying her solo date as she watched the match. The outing comes after Carrie and her radio co-star Tommy Little dropped an engagement bombshell live on-air amid rumours they've struck up a romance. They announced on their Hit program on Monday that their newsreader Jesse Watkins had gotten engaged. 'Can we have some marriage music? There has been an engagement on our show, over the summer,' Carrie began. 'Jesse, well done!' Carrie added as the energetic newsman replied: 'She said yes!' The long-time radio anchorman had previously confirmed the news on Instagram on December 16, when Carrie & Tommy staff were on Christmas break. He shared a loved-up photo of himself with fiancee Caroline Varney, and both Carrie and Tommy, 39, took to the comment section to congratulate him. 'Yay yay yay!!! The best!!!' Carrie gushed and Tommy added: 'Well this is a bit f***ing cute.' The media personality added a pair of strappy, towering heels and carried a cream shoulder bag. Carrie opted for a warm, peachy makeup look with lots of highlighter and a pink lip gloss She wore her blonde hair in soft, retro waves and added a pair of gold, dangling earrings to the look Carrie was later spotted in the stands enjoying her solo date as she watched the match Carrie and Tommy have been the subject of romance rumours ever since they hosted their HIT FM radio show from Paris, France in 2023. In November, the pair were spotted cuddling up for a photo behind-the-scenes at the ACRAs after skipping the red carpet altogether. Carrie split from her partner of 11 years, Chris Walker, in 2022, while Tommy has reportedly been single since his split from girlfriend Natalie Kyriacou in 2021. Tommy rushed to Carrie's side when she confirmed her break-up, leading insiders to speculate their friendship could evolve into something more . Carrie announced her split from Chris in an Instagram post in January 2022, saying the pair would co-parent their three children, Ollie, 17, Evie, nine, and Adelaide, six. 'It's with immense sadness that Chris and I have decided to separate,' she wrote. 'While this is a tough time, our focus is on parenting, loving and supporting our three children Ollie, Evie and Addie with everything we've got.' The radio co-hosts also had a hugely successful year in 2024 with their drive-time show. The outing comes after Carrie and her radio co-star Tommy Little, 39, (left) dropped an engagement bombshell live on-air amid rumours they've struck up a romance In August, the Carrie & Tommy show was once again named as the number one national drive show in Australia. The Hit Network show nabbed an 11.1 per cent share in Australia, securing the top spot for the fourth time in a row. The pair said of the results: 'We are so lucky to have such a hard-working team and incredible listeners who continue to drive us to unbelievable results. 'Thank you, Australia, for making us #1 for the fourth time in a row. 'We're having an absolute blast every afternoon, and we love sharing in the fun with listeners around the country.' Hitting the number one spot made it the pair's fourth consecutive win in the ratings and the best result the Hit Network has received for its drive slot since 2018. Traitors winner Leanne Quigley has revealed that she is planning to spend her prize winnings on a lavish wedding - and she is eyeing up the Traitors castle as a venue. The former soldier, who pretended to be a nail technician on the show, scooped the 94,300 winnings alongside project manager Jake Brown, after successfully banishing Charlotte. She now plans on spending her half of the prize on getting married to her partner of six years, Sophie. The couple are also parents to two-year-old twin boys, conceived through IVF. The blonde-haired beauty told MailOnline: 'We have got wedding planning to do. We have just started. We haven't set a date yet but yeah we can get a wedding going.' 'I actually looked at the castle because I didn't realise you could get married there. That would be so iconic. I would actually love that.' Traitors winner Leanne Quigley has revealed that she is planning to spend her prize winnings on a lavish wedding - and she is eyeing up the Traitors castle as a venue She now plans on spending her half of the prize on getting married to her partner of six years, Sophie Leanne added that she would 'absolutely' be inviting the cast of the BBC show to her big day, when it rolls around. She quipped: 'I mean, the most incredible people Ive ever met in my life, and the genuine love that we all have for each other. 'We've all had a few meet ups since leaving the castle and every time we see each other, it's just all love. It's so lovely.' The Traitors is filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish highlands, and couples looking for the perfect wedding venue are able to hire the Great Hall, which can cater for up to 130 guests. The former squaddie also spoke about expanding her family using her 47,300 share of the prize for further rounds of IVF. She said: 'I will absolutely be trying to have another baby, not straight away, maybe in a couple of years, I think. 'My family need a little bit of a rest at the minute. But I think we'll go through and freeze our eggs, hopefully get some embryos and get them in the freezer for the future.' When quizzed on whether she's spent the money yet, the veteran admitted: 'No, not quite yet, we absolutely haven't had it yet. 'So, when that time comes, I think we'll go on a nice family holiday holiday.' Although she loved every moment on the show, Leanne admitted it was 'hard to watch it back'. The former soldier, who pretended to be a nail technician on the show, scooped the 94,300 winnings alongside project manager Jake Brown, after successfully banishing Charlotte The couple share two-year-old twin sons Harper and Hudson She explained: 'You can't see everything that goes on. When you're in the castle, you're only in one room, so you know you don't know what gets said in every other room. 'And obviously, it's hard watching it because the cameras literally focusing on the Traitors and showing all the slip ups that they're making and you watch it and you think, how did I miss that? 'But it's so easy to say when you watch it. It's so difficult in the castle.' It comes just after Leanne paid emotional tribute to her fiancee Sophie after winning the BBC show. Hours after her triumphant win, Leanne took to Instagram to give thanks to Sophie following her partner's devastating cancer battle. Sharing a photo alongside Jake and host Claudia Winkleman, Leanne wrote: 'Wow. I cant even believe Im writing this 'THANK YOU to every single one of you who have been so supportive and incredible, most importantly my future wife Sophie.' Leanne went on: 'That was THE most emotional ending I could have imagined. Leanne added that she would 'absolutely' be inviting the cast of the BBC show to her big day, when it rolls around Leanne and fellow winner Jake Brown pictured with host Claudia after their win 'I love you so much Francesca Rowan-Plowden and Alexander Dragonetti. Im beyond lucky to have made friends for life in this game. 'To our queen Claudia Winkleman for being the best host on earth and the most amazing production team at Studio Lambert.' She concluded: 'And to Jake Brown [heart emoji] WE DID IT.' Leanne's tribute to Sophie comes after she revealed her partner has been given the all clear following a secret battle with breast cancer. The reality star shares two-year-old twin boys Hudson and Harper with Sophie, who proposed to her last August. Earlier this month, she shared her relief that Sophie has beaten breast cancer following a battle with the disease that 'killed them both inside'. Sharing a photo of herself with Sophie in hospital during treatment, she wrote: 'This is the only news we needed and wanted.' Leanne went on: 'On the 31st July 2024 my partner, and the mother of my children was diagnosed with grade 3 breast cancer. Watching the person you love fight through chemotherapy is up there with the worst things on earth'. It comes just after Leanne paid emotional tribute to her fiancee Sophie after winning the BBC show Hours after her triumphant win, Leanne took to Instagram to give thanks to Sophie following her partner's devastating cancer battle 'We quickly learnt to never take anything for granted ever again, and sadly had to learn that tomorrow is never promised and fear of the unknown literally killed us inside. 'Yesterday, Wednesday 8th January 2025, the strongest woman on planet earth was told she is cancer free. She did it. I cannot express or put in to words how proud I am, and how in awe I am of her strength every single day. 'Today we begin to truly celebrate us, our boys, and the excitement of the rest of our lives. I could never thank the NHS enough for quite literally saving my whole family. And the biggest thank you to our support system. 'We're so lucky to be surrounded by the most incredible family and friends.For anybody fighting, or for anybody watching their loved ones fight this horrible disease. I see you and I feel you. Please don't give up.' Sophie commented: 'You have absolutely held your head up high and got me through this babe. I couldnt wish for a better woman by my side honestly I love you so so much. 'Thank you for everything over the last 6 months. Now lets go and enjoy our life.' Before entering the castle Leanne revealed she would use the prize money for her and Sophie to further IVF treatment for a third child, after a very difficult first pregnancy. She said: 'I went through IVF with my boys, and I was very poorly throughout my pregnancy, and then I went into early labour at six months. Sophie proposed to Leanne during a romantic boat trip last summer Earlier this month, she shared her relief that Sophie has beaten breast cancer following a battle with the disease that 'killed them both inside' Leanne wrote on Instagram: 'This is the only news we needed and wanted. On the 31st July 2024 my partner, and the mother of my children was diagnosed with grade 3 breast cancer. Watching the person you love fight through chemotherapy is up there with the worst things on earth' 'The boys were only 26 weeks when they were born. Because I was so poorly at the time I feel I missed out on enjoying that newborn stage. 'I'm so so grateful to have them, and I'm so lucky that they're alive. When they did come home from hospital after three months, they come home on oxygen, and it was a struggle to take them out. 'I would love the opportunity to have another baby, hopefully have a bit of a better experience. And to make our family a bit bigger.' Leanne shared an emotional post on Instagram after her sons were born three months early. 'They are the most precious, beautiful, tiniest little babies I have ever seen in my life and I'm so proud of how much they are fighting every single day...' she wrote. 'We took some time to figure out if we should share our news, but our babies are here fighting and they deserve all the love and prayers they can get.' Madeleine West has issued a scathing response to critics who questioned her decision to continue exercising at the gym while pregnant with her seventh child. The Neighbours star, 45, shared a picture to Instagram on Saturday in which she showcased her growing baby bump during a gym workout and captioned it with some pointed words. 'I just want to allay the quite loud and aggressive concerns of those faceless folk who slid into my DMs after spotting this pic in my stories, asserting I shouldn't be in the gym while pregnant and was only doing it out of vanity,' she began. West then emphasised her fitness routine was focused on ensuring the best start for her unborn child. 'I continue to exercise to ensure the best for my baby. Regular GENTLE exercise keeps blood pressure in check and lowers the risk of gestational diabetes. 'It's great for mental health and I know only too well how strong my body will need to be in the coming months.' Madeleine West (pictured) has issued a scathing response to critics who questioned her decision to continue exercising at the gym while pregnant with her seventh child She added she was attending a gym staffed by trainers skilled at helping pregnant women achieve their fitness goals. 'I attend a gym staffed by PTs well-versed in caring for pregnant women. They keep a vigilant eye on me, so even if I wanted to heft barbells across the room or twist myself into a pretzel, I'd be stopped.' The Melbourne-born actress finished her post by saying it was okay for people to express their concerns to her, but she asked them to do so in a polite manner. 'There's a pretty simple way to reverse that and take control back: START BEING KIND TO EACH OTHER. 'The single greatest signifier of mankind's humanity is when MAN is KIND.' Many of West's followers quickly took to the comment section to commend her bravery in speaking out on this issue. 'You are an amazing human. Nobody should be telling you what you can and can't do,' one person wrote. 'Keeping fit is vital - do so as long as you are able too,' a second user added. The Neighbours star, 45, shared a picture to Instagram on Saturday in which she showcased her growing baby bump during a gym workout and captioned it with some pointed words West emphasised her fitness routine was focused on ensuring the best start for her unborn child Last week, Madeleine announced she was pregnant with her seventh child - a decade on from her most recent birth. The star revealed the surprising news in an Instagram post. In the photo, the brunette displayed her growing baby bump in a tight-fitting tank top that was lifted to reveal her bare tummy. 'WHOOPS!' she captioned her post. 'Thought it was #perimenopause. I thought WRONG!' 'It's not too much Christmas pudding either. I couldn't be happier. 'Not too sure about the title 'Geriatric mum' but here we are, and I'm winding back a little to grow this little surprise package I've dubbed. (Baby number 7, couldn't help myself). 'I don't have much more to say right now, but I've noticed I don't hear much about older parents. l know you must be out there. Seems we are invisible.' The actress sought advice for a mother in her 40s from her followers as she prepares for her seventh birth. 'So if you're expecting later than expected, and tackling early in your 40s or 50s, I'd LOVE hear your stories,' she added. Madeleine already shares six children - Phoenix, 19, Hendrix, 16, Xascha, 14, Xanthe, 12, and twins Xalia and Margaux, 10 - with her ex-partner, celebrity chef Shannon Bennett, 49. The Australian star was most recently linked to Maximo Bottaro, who she dated for more than three years. Kelly Brook has revealed she's made her mind up on whether she wants to have children or not, after an 'honest' admission from her grandma. The model and actress, 45, opened up on a comment that has stuck with her and changed her views on becoming a mother. In an interview with The Mirror, Kelly revealed that she asked her grandma if she had any regrets in life - and was shocked by her frank answer, when she responded that her biggest one was having children. She admitted: 'I wasn't expecting it, but she definitely said it! I think she felt that having children had taken up a lot of her life. 'I thought, 'What an absolutely honest, incredible answer,' and I think I needed to hear it. I was about 36 at the time and thinking, 'God, am I ever going to have children? If so, maybe I should just get on with it now?' 'Then I thought, 'Actually, I don't think I want them,' and hearing that somebody had regrets, and that I might not regret not having children, made me feel really happy about my choice.' Kelly Brook has revealed she's made her mind up on whether she wants to have children or not, after an 'honest' admission from her grandma The model and actress, 45, opened up on a comment that has stuck with her and changed her views on becoming a mother Kelly reflected on how not having children leaves her life more open to different possibilities and used being able to move between LA and the UK as an example. It comes after the Loose Women star opened up about her 'traumatic and devastating' miscarriages in previous relationships. She revealed that her and her husband Jeremy Parisi are 'childless by choice' as she spoke about their marriage. Kelly revealed that she looks at her and Jeremy's 'beautiful life' and how they aren't 'burdened' by the turmoil of trying to have children. However she got candid about her experience in previous relationships, as she revealed the trauma of going through IVF or experiencing miscarriages. 'I am actually childless by choice at the moment, it's not something that we have considered and I don't think that should be a taboo,' she told The Sun on Sunday. 'I have been through pregnancies and miscarriages and I know how traumatic and devastating they are on you and on your relationship, I have been down that road with previous partners and it is a lot. 'I look at the beautiful life we have and how we don't have the burden of that.' Kelly said that while she sees how much happiness children bring her family, she also sees the stress that comes with. Kelly revealed that she asked her grandma if she had any regrets in life and she responded that her biggest one was having children (Kelly pictured with husband Jeremy) She admitted: 'I wasn't expecting it, but she definitely said it! I think she felt that having children had taken up a lot of her life' And while her and Jeremy love family time and caring for their dog, travel is a huge part of their lives and having children is not on their list of priorities. However at the time Kelly admitted that she wasn't completely closed off to being a mum in the future - something she was yet to discuss with her husband. The couple revealed they want to become TV's new power couple and believe their constant bickering makes them more 'relatable.' Kelly criticised duos who force their on-screen relationship and 'portray an unrealistic dynamic' to audiences. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, the former actress insists she and Frenchman Jeremy, who she married in 2022, aren't trying to be 'perfect', which sets them apart from existing TV partnerships. After competing on BBC show Celebrity Race Across the World, Kelly says viewers were given an introduction to Jeremy, who spoke no English when he first moved to the UK. Then, they starred in La Vita Italiana, a three-part mini-series filmed for ITV's This Morning, which saw Kelly adapt to life at Jeremy's family home and farm in Arpino. And Kelly hopes the show will be commissioned for a bigger project as the couple sets their sights on a semipermanent move to rural Italy. It comes after the Loose Women star opened up about her 'traumatic and devastating' miscarriages in previous relationships She revealed that her and her husband Jeremy Parisi are 'childless by choice' as she spoke about their marriage Kelly said that while she sees how much happiness children bring her family, she also sees the stress that comes with it She said: 'We're just a normal couple. We're not trying to be the perfect couple like a lot of TV duos try and portray an unrealistic dynamic. 'But with us, we argue, and we get on and we love each other, we're normal and relatable because we're just like any other couple. It seems that during Race Across the World that's how people saw us. It's just who we are.' Kelly fell for Jeremy after she reached out to him directly on Instagram and the pair connected over their mutual love of martial arts and fitness training. During the early days of their romance, Jeremy spoke very little English, with French and Italian being his primary languages. The radio host took on the role of translator and admits she can still speak on Jeremy's behalf even now he's fluent in English. She said: 'I know people think I talk over Jeremy all the time. That's because I talk too much and when Jeremy first moved to the UK, he didn't speak any English, so I became so used to talking for him and I've just not got out the habit of it.' Holly Willoughby has admitted that she 'always knew she'd come back to TV' amid her return to the spotlight. Speaking in her first interview in over a year, the presenter, 43, explained how is was important for her to return to normality since quitting This Morning in October 2023. After a 'graphic' kidnap and murder plot against her was revealed, Holly took sometime away from screens and the red carpet, aside from her role on Dancing On Ice. She told The Sunday Times Style Magazine: 'I knew that I would come back. It was important for me to get back to normality for lots of reasons.' The TV personality has not only resumed her role on Dancing On Ice this, but also launched new gameshow You Bet! and is set to star on Netflix's Celebrity Bear Hunt with adventurer Bear Grylls. Holly admitted that while she would be 'an idiot to say no' her return to work was 'never about the money'. Holly Willoughby has admitted that she 'always knew she'd come back to TV' amid her return to the spotlight (pictured last week) Speaking in her first interview in over a year, the presenter, 43, explained how is was important for her to return to normality since quitting This Morning (pictured on This Morning in 2023) She continued: 'Im not saying, how much are they going to pay me for this, and how much are they going to pay me for that? But by definition my work is a business. I 'Im not going to shy away from saying that. I think, sometimes, when women earn money people see it as a greedy, ambitious thing, but when men earn money? "Oh, hes incredible, I want to be like him!" I dont have any shame in saying its my business, its my work. Its also all I have known. Its what I do.' Holly made her return to TV in December as she took on hosting of the new gameshow You Bet! alongside Stephen Mulhern. Speaking previously about being a part of the show, Holly gushed: 'I remember watching You Bet! as a kid, and I loved it. For me, it felt like true Saturday night telly. 'I remember being glued to the TV whilst watching a digger pick up 6 delicate eggs in its giant jaws and placing them on egg cups, all in a minute. 'I remember looking at my Dad who was equally as enthralled as I was. I think the show works for all ages and is real family viewing.' Asked what her most memorable moment of filming was, she referenced the iconic cactus licking moment. She joked: 'The one that stands out to me the most was a lovely couple whose unique challenge was that they could identify different types of cactuses - whilst blindfolded - by licking them!' She told The Sunday Times Style Magazine : 'I knew that I would come back. It was important for me to get back to normality for lots of reasons' (pictured in September 2023) Holly made her return to TV in December as she took on hosting of the new gameshow You Bet ! alongside Stephen Mulhern Elsewhere, Holly is set to star on Celebrity Bear Hunt which will see her swap her glamorous ensembles for hiking boots to host the action-packed show in Costa Rica with Bear Grylls You Bet! was a popular quiz show originally hosted by Bruce Forsyth and then Matthew Kelly for 10 series in the 1980s and 1990s. Elsewhere, Holly is set to star on Celebrity Bear Hunt which will see her swap her glamorous red carpet ensembles for a pair of hiking boots to host the action-packed show in Costa Rica alongside Bear Grylls. According to Netflix, the competition show sees a group of unlikely celebrities get dropped into the Central American jungle as prey for one of the world's most fearsome predators Bear. As Bear puts them through their paces, those who fail to impress will face the dreaded 'Bear Hunt' a brutal game of cat and mouse where theyll be hunted down by Bear himself and, if captured, face elimination from the show. Show bosses have pulled out all the stops with their latest line-up which features Spice Girl Mel B, Strictly judge Shirley Ballas, Boris Becker and model Lottie Moss. Also joining the A-list line-up is Inbetweeners star Joe Thomas, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Steph McGovern, Una Healy, Kila Bokinni, Leomie Anerson and Danny Cipriani. Justin Baldoni's mother reached out to the embattled actor to send him a birthday message as he turned 41 on Friday amid his very public legal battle with Blake Lively. Sharon Baldoni shared three photos of her and her son from the Jane the Virgin set from the series finale in 2019. Sharon appeared to have been an extra that day. 'Happy Birthday Justin ~ remembering a wonderful moment after the final ending of 'Jane The Virgin'- a moment where joy and love permeated the set,' she began. After a few more fond recollection, the loving mother, seemed to refer to his current situation, writing, 'Life has its moments and also its surprises- as you keep your integrity through it all Justice and truth will shine today and into eternity. 'I love you more than you will ever know! Happy Birthday my beautiful boy! May God continue to bless you in truth.' A pre-trial conference has been scheduled for February 12, where legal representatives for Baldoni and Lively will hammer out details for any upcoming trial. Justin Baldoni 's mother, Sharon, shared this photo and several others from behind the scenes at the Jane the Virgin series finale to with the actor a happy 41st birthday on Friday. 'I love you more than you will ever know!' Lively, 37, fired the first salvo in the legal battle, which is expected to cost millions. In December 2024, the actress filed a complaint for sexual harassment and retaliation against her It Ends With Us director and co-star, and sued him days later, claiming he caused her emotional distress during the shoot, and alleged he sought to malign her character via an online campaign allegedly coordinated with his publicity team. The full complaint was shared on several media outlets, including The New York Times, which first reported on the allegations. Baldoni is suing the NY Times for $250 million over its coverage of Lively's complaint, in addition the $400 million he is seeking from Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds,48. Lively and Reynolds have asked for a gag order after Baldoni's attorney leaked a 10-minute video from the It Ends with Us set, and announced plans for a website to disclose more. Lively and her team called it an 'unethical attempt to manipulate the public' and a 'continuation of their harassment and retaliatory campaign.' The actress's attorneys argued that allowing Baldoni and his side to do so would risk 'tainting the jury pool.' 'While they are focused on misleading media narratives, we are focused on the legal process,' The Town actress' attorneys said. 'Happy Birthday Justin ~ remembering a wonderful moment after the final ending of 'Jane The Virgin,' she began. 'Life has its moments and also its surprises- as you keep your integrity through it all Justice and truth will shine today and into eternity ' Baldoni and his It Ends with Us co-star, Blake Lively, 37, are embroiled in a legal battle. Lively has accused the director of sexual harassment on the set and claims he orchestrated a smear campaign against her. Baldoni has denied the claims and is suing the actress for $400m 'We are continuing our efforts to require Mr. Baldoni and his associates to answer in court, under oath, rather than through manufactured media stunts.' Baldoni and his team have fired back, calling the request an 'intimidation tactic.' Baldoni is also being sued by his former publicist, Steph Jones, who accused Baldoni of breaching their contract, which required him to pay her Jonesworks company $25,000 per month. Baldoni is also being sued by his former publicist for breach of contract. Steph Jones claims Baldoni and his current PR team are trying to blame her for the alleged smear campaign against Lively (Pictured in Beverly Hills in December 2024) The actor left the firm in August just a few months after signing a one-year contract with them, after the publicist he was working with, Jennifer Abel, left Jonesworks to start her own publicity firm. Jones has also filed suit against Abel and publicist Melissa Nathan, whose The Agency Group was hired by actor Johnny Depp to during his defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard. Jones has accused Baldoni, Abel and Nathan of implementing the smear campaign against Lively behind her back and without her knowledge. She also claimed they are trying to 'point the finger at her' for the attacks on Lively. Dame Anna Wintour cut a typically stylish figure as she stepped out during Paris Fashion Week in a long blue coat on Saturday. The legendary Vogue editor, 75, arrived at a menswear show in the French capital in the smart getup and wore her signature sunglasses to boot. The media executive completed the look with a host of jewellery around her neck and a pair of snakeskin boots. She rocked her usual bob, and clutched onto her phone as she made her way through the streets. To avoid the wet weather, Anna took shelter under a blue umbrella, held above her head by an assistant. Dame Anna Wintour cut a typically stylish figure as she stepped out during Paris Fashion Week in a long blue coat on Saturday The legendary Vogue editor, 75, arrived at a menswear show in the French capital in the smart getup and wore her signature sunglasses to boot Earlier this month, Anna enjoyed a dinner at the lavish restaurant Minetta Tavern in Washington, D.C. And after restauranteur Keith McNally uploaded some snaps of her at the eatery, many people on the web were left stunned over her age-defying looks. Anna, who is known for often sporting dark shades when out in public, opted not to wear the accessory for the outing. She donned a dark blue, floral gown, which she paired with a similar-colored jacket and a red clutch purse. 'Anna Wintour had dinner at Minetta Tavern D.C. tonight with my former sister-in-law Anne McNally,' Keith captioned it. 'Anna bumped into TV host/producer the amazing Paul Wharton.' Immediately, fans flooded the comment section of his post with theories about Anna's appearance. 'Did she give you the permission to post her photo ONLY if her face was going to be heavily filtered?' one person asked. The media executive completed the look with a host of jewellery around her neck and a pair of snakeskin boots The media executive completed the look with a host of jewellery around her neck and a pair of snakeskin boots Anna opted not to wear shades for a recent outing, and many people on the web were left stunned over her age-defying looks Anna (seen last month) is known for often sporting dark shades when out in public Anna decided not to wear sunglasses again when she visited the White House to be presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden 'Who is AWs plastic surgeon? I need,' someone else wrote. Keith, however, insisted that the images were not edited. 'I did NOT filter the photograph,' he said to one commenter. 'I wouldnt know how to do it in a million years.' He also replied another fan who asked him to 'come out and say that Anna had major face work or say it was AI.' 'Youre overthinking it,' he fired back. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday came bearing nine poll-promises for the people of the national Capital by releasing the third and the final part of Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) Sankalp Patra including development of Yamuna river front, ownership rights for residents of unauthorised colonies, 50,000 government jobs, metro and bus rides available throughout the day and Rs 10 Lakh life Insurance for gig workers for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections. Addressing a press conference, the senior BJP leader also launched an all out attack on AAP chief and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, asking him to take a dip in Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh to wash out his sins and called him the biggest liar he has ever seen in his political career. Releasing the manifesto titled Viksit Delhi Sankalp Patra 2025, Shah mocked the ruling partys seven-year-old promise to clean the Yamuna River and take a holy dip in it. If Kejriwal cannot take a dip in the Yamuna, he should at least go to the Kumbh and wash away his sins. And he can come after three years and take a dip in the Yamuna river, with his family, that we will get cleaned , Shah remarked. He also said that while Kejriwal makes fake promises, Modi government delivers Announcing the poll promises made in the third part of the manifesto, Amit Shah said, Modi ji has announced the granting of ownership rights to more than 1,700 unauthorized colonies. Previously, these colonies did not have permission for construction, buying, or selling. Now, by granting them full ownership rights and aligning with the Ministry of Housings regulations and Delhis by-laws, we will give them the right to construct and sell. He also announced that the 13,000 shops in Delhi which are sealed will be reopened. We have worked with lawyers to find a legal path to reopen them. We will create a judicial authority and reopen these shops within six months to resume operations. Refugee colonies that have been established since 1947, such as Rajendra Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, and Kingsway Camp, currently have people on lease; they cannot sell or buy the land. We will grant ownership rights to all these refugees who have land on lease in these colonies in the first Cabinet meeting, Shah added. The Home Minister also announced the establishment of a Workers Welfare Board in Delhi, which will ensure that all workers have life insurance coverage of up to 10 lakh and accident insurance of up to 5 lakh. Additionally, their children will receive advantages. We will apply the same formula for textile workers. We will provide Rs 10,000 as assistance to workers, and for registered workers, we will offer loans up to 3 lakh to enhance skills and businesses, he said. The Home Minister promised to provide 50,000 government jobs to the youth of Delhi in a transparent way without any corruption in addition to creating 20 lakh self-employment opportunities. The government, if voted to power, will provide Rs 4,000 every year in National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) to needy students. The party also promised to complete the phase- IV of the Delhi metro soon and provide buses and metro round the clock. Through an investment of 20,000 crore, we will develop an integrated public transport network and convert 13,000 buses into electric buses, making Delhi a 100 per cent electric bus city under the BJP government, he said. He also underlined that to promote tourism, they will collaborate with the Uttar Pradesh and Haryana governments to create a Mahabharata corridor. We will develop the Yamuna Riverfront, similar to the Sabarmati Riverfront. I would like to invite Kejriwal to join us after three years of our government to take a dip in the Yamuna with his family. We will end manual scavenging 100 per cent and eliminate this inhumane practice completely, he said. Upon the Ayushman Bharat Scheme which has been a flash point between the Centre and AAP ruled Delhi government, the minister added that as soon the party forms government, in the first Cabinet meeting only, they will implement the Centres scheme. The BJP also announced Rs 10 lakh as life insurance for accredited journalists and lawyers and Rs 10 lakh to them for health and accident insurance. Shah reaffirmed that the BJP would not halt ongoing welfare initiatives for the poor in Delhi.The party has already announced several poll promises in the first and second part of the manifesto. In part 1 of its Sankalp Patra, the BJP promised to open an Atal Canteen for people, free cylinders for poor women on Holi and Diwali and Rs 2500 for women in the national capital. For senior citizens, the BJP announced Rs 2500 per month and Rs 3000 for widows and Divyang people. The saffron party said that an Atal canteen will be opened in Jhuggis and pregnant women will be given Rs 21,000 for their health welfare and six Poshan Kit (Nutrition Kit). In part 2, the party promised Rs 15,000 to youth for exams and free education for needy students from Kindergarten (KP) KG to Post Graduation (PG), in Delhi if voted to power. As per the announcement, BJP will provide free education from KG to PG to needy students in government education institutes only. Delhi will vote on February 5 while the counting is scheduled to take place on February 8. In a major development, the US Supreme Court has paved the way for Pakistani-Canadian national and 26/11 attacks case accused Tahawwur Hussain Ranas extradition to India where he will face trial in the Mumbai terror strikes case. The US apex court early this week dismissed Ranas review petition (writ of certiorari) filed on November 13, 2024 challenging his extradition to India. With the rejection of his petition, Rana has exhausted all his legal options to evade his extradition to India. Now, Ranas extradition to India has become imminent. In the past, Rana had lost similar pleas, both in US Court of Appeals in San Francisco and several federal courts, to be sent to India for prosecution of charges in the November 26-29, 2008 attacks case, in which 166 people were killed and 300 others injured. During the hearing in his latest plea in December 2024, the US Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar had made a strong case for rejection of Ranas review petition on the ground that the Lashkar-E-Taiba (LeT) operative was not entitled for relief from extradition to India. A former medical officer in the Pakistani army, Rana had migrated to Canada in 1990 where he became a citizen before moving to Chicago. As per US law, if he is not extradited to India, he will be deported to his home country Canada after the completion of his prison term in 2027. Rana is currently lodged in a Los Angeles prison for his involvement in plotting a terror attack on the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten. Rana had contended that he was tried and acquitted by a federal court in Illinois (Chicago) on the charges pertaining to the 26/11 case, for which India sought his extradition. However, Prelogar had strongly opposed Ranas plea. Rana is accused of significant involvement in the 26/11 attacks case. Ajmal Kasab was among the ten Pakistani terrorists who had carried out brazen attacks on Mumbai. While nine of the ten terrorists were killed by the security forces during the attack, the remaining one- Mohammed Ajmal Kasab - was caught alive by the police at Girgaum Chowpatty on the intervening night of November 26-27, 2008. After his conviction in the case, Kasab was hanged to death in the 26/11 attacks case in Punes Yerwada central prison on November 21, 2012. Rana is one of the two masterminds who are yet to be brought to justice, while the other is Sayed Zabiuddin Ansari alias Abu Jundal, an Indian operative who worked for the Lashkar terror group. He was arrested in 2012 after being identified by Kasab and is currently behind the bars in Mumbai. Welcoming the impending extradition to India, senior advocate Ujjwal Nikam, who was the Special Public Prosecutor in the 26/11 attacks case, said: This is major success for India because the Supreme Court of America has dismissed the review petition of Tahawwur Rana. Tahawwur Rana and David Headley are the close links behind the terror attack of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. By extraditing Tahawwur Rana, India will get more information and evidence of the involvement of some of the Pakistani people, including the Pakistan security apparatus. I am very optimistic that the extradition of Tahawwur Rana will give more evidence about the involvement of some of the security apparatus of Pakistan, Rana is a close aide of the Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, who was also wanted by India for the 26/11 hit, carried out by 10 heavily armed Pakistan terrorists. In an amended criminal complaint in the Illinois court against Headley and his accomplice Tahawwur Hussain Rana, on October 21, 2009, the FBI had given details about the reconnaissance done by Headley in India and his links with Rahul Bhatt, whom he (Headley) had befriended during his trips to India. Bhatt and his fitness instructor friend Vilas Pandurang Varak had subsequently confirmed having met Headley during his visits to India. It may be recalled that on September 26, 2023, the Mumbai crime branch sleuths had filed a 405-page supplementary charge-sheet against Canadian businessman of Pakistani origin Dr. Tahawwur Hussain Rana based on fresh evidence against him. Among other things, the supplementary charge-sheet had alleged that Rana had stayed in India for 11 days - from November 11, 2008 to November 22, 2008. Of these days, he spent two days in Mumbai, where he stayed at Hotel Renaissance at Powai. In its charge-sheet submitted before the trial court, the crime branch police had added Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) section 39A (offence relating to support given to a terrorist organisation) against Rana in the case.We have gathered some fresh evidence against Rana in the form of statements and documents, a senior crime branch officer said. In its charge-sheet, the Mumbai police officials had said that they had found several documents which indicated that Rana was not only a co-conspirator along with incarcerated Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley, but that he actively participated in the conspiracy behind the 26/11 attacks on Mumbai. He had helped Headley get an Indian tourist visa based on fake documents, that allegedly provided logistical support to the Lashkar-e-Taiba for the 26/11 attacks and that there was evidence in the form of an email sent by Headley to Rana. At the time of filing a supplementary charge-sheet against Rana, Special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said that he would present before the court some incriminating material the crime branch had gathered during its investigation against the accused, and seek a non-bailable warrant against him. He said he had a catalogue of evidence against Rana whose name was first revealed by the US national David Headley. Headley, who was the 26/11 conspirator in the 26/11 terror strike case, had turned an approver in the trial of key 26/11 conspirator Zaibuddin Ansari alias Abu Jundal trial in December 2015 after the Mumbai court pardoned him in the case, In May 2023, the Magistrate Judge, US District Court of California, Judge Jacqueline Chooljian had ordered the extradition of Rana in the 26/11 attacks case. However, another US court on August 18 stayed the extradition of Rana. The extradition of Rana to India is stayed pending the conclusion of his appeal before the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Judge Fischer had said in the order issued on August 18, 2023. Thirty-one employees of the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) were awarded the prestigious 'Outstanding Service Honour' in the state capital on Saturday. The awards ceremony marking the Republic Day eve was held at the ISBT premises. Mayor Malti Rai and Municipal Commissioner Harendra Narayan were prominent among those present on the occasion. The honoured employees, selected from various departments, were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the functioning and development of the city. In addition, the meritorious children of municipal employees who excelled in their 10th and 12th-grade exams were presented with incentive money. Rai, in her address, conveyed her Republic Day wishes to the employees and expressed pride in recognising their hard work and dedication. "When we honour someone, they feel proud of their contributions," she said. "We chose the eve of Republic Day for this event, as it allows us to celebrate our employees before the national festivities begin." Municipal Commissioner Narayan also praised the employees' efforts, stating that the corporation's success is built on their hard work. "The revenue collected by our employees sustains the corporation and their families. They ensure the city runs smoothly, and we are all proud of their contributions," he said. Among those honoured were Assistant Encroachment Prevention Officer Shailendra Bhadoria, Health Officer Rakesh Sharma, Sanitation Inspector Ramratan Lohiya, and Vehicle Driver SK Verma, among others. Meritorious students included Sakina Hussain, Zoya Habiba Rab, Divyansh Sachan, Wania Fatima, and Aryan Vishwakarma. This is the first time that Bhopal Municipal Corporation has hosted such an event to recognise its employees on the eve of Republic Day. The ceremony included patriotic performances by the Sunil Shukraware Group, and Additional Commissioner Varun Awasthi extended thanks to the guests and participants. As the Yamuna River comes to the fore in Delhi assembly election campaigns in 2025, the BJP struck a sharp and creative stroke against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday. BJP candidate from New Delhi assembly seat, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma staged a symbolic protest by taking a boat ride on the Yamuna River, accompanied by party members over the issue of cleaning the Yamuna River. He immersed an effigy of former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in the murky water of the Yamuna over his unfulfilled promise to clean the river so that people could take a dip in it. In a video shared on social media, Verma visited Yamuna Ghat holding a life-size cut-out of Kejriwal, which depicted him holding his ears with a slogan that read, Main fail ho gaya, mujhe vote mat dena, 2025 tak main Yamuna saaf nai kar paya (I am a failure; dont vote for me; I failed to clean the Yamuna by 2025), referencing Kejriwals unfulfilled promise of cleaning the Yamuna in the national capital. Kejriwal's failure to fulfil his promise of cleaning the Yamuna has become evident, Verma told reporters at the riverbank near ITO. "We can clean all the water of Yamuna Maaiya. Cleaning it is not rocket science. All the silt should be removed by machines, sewerage treatment plants should be built, water treatment plants should be built... Just like our Prime Minister Modi ji built the Sabarmati Riverfront, Yamuna Riverfront can be built in the same way. 11 years is a very long time," said Verma adding Kejriwal will never become the chief minister. Despite having 11 long years of power and spending Rs 8,000 crore, the AAP government failed to deliver on its promise of cleaning the Yamuna. This is the biggest betrayal with the people of Delhi," he said. Kejriwal claimed he would clean the river by 2025, but the situation has worsened. "By immersing his effigy, we are exposing his failure to the people of Delhi, he said. The AAP supremo in his campaigns for the Delhi Assembly polls admitted that he could not fulfil the promise of cleaning the Yamuna. Now, he has assured people that the river will be cleaned in the next two-three years after AAP comes back to power in Delhi. Kejriwal's tenure as chief minister has been limited to "hollow promises and false claims," Verma charged and accused the AAP convenor of lacking the intent and capability to clean the Yamuna. "This act of immersing his effigy in the Yamuna is a reminder to the people that it is time to free Delhi from deceitful promises, Verma said. This demonstration aims to highlight the "failures" of Kejriwal and AAP government and to send a clear message that the problems of Delhi will remain unresolved as long as the politics of "lies and propaganda" continues, he added. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, during a BJP rally in Delhi on Thursday, also targeted AAP and its leadership. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi extended her heartfelt greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of the 76th Republic Day, reminding them of the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters and her government's dedication to realising their vision for the country. Speaking at a Republic Day event at the Chhatrasal Stadium, Atishi urged people to remember the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence. The Delhi Chief Minister highlighted her governments transformative initiatives, including free electricity and water, significant investments in education and health, and free travel for 11 lakh women daily, boosting their economic participation. She also emphasized uninterrupted 24x7 electricity and the construction of 38 flyovers in a decade as evidence of her governments focus on infrastructure. Reaffirming her governments commitment, the Delhi Chief Minister called for empowering women and ensuring quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for all. "Freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Mahatma Gandhi, Lala Lajpat Rai and Chandrashekhar Azad thought not of themselves but of the country. Their sacrifices give me goosebumps," she said. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader highlighted India's transformative journey and the role of the Constitution, drafted under the leadership of B R Ambedkar, in ensuring equal rights for all citizens. "It is our responsibility to fulfil the dreams of our freedom fighters and Baba Saheb. Our Constitution envisions equal opportunities and the Delhi government is working tirelessly to make this a reality," she said. Atishi noted the strides made by the Delhi government in key areas, particularly education and healthcare. "There was a time when government schools in Delhi were in a poor condition. Children from underprivileged families lacked access to quality education, which perpetuated poverty. Today, I am proud to say that the Delhi government schools have transformed the lives of these families by providing quality education," she said. The chief minister also praised the city's free healthcare initiatives, including mohalla clinics, and highlighted achievements such as round-the-clock electricity for residents. "Delhi is the only state providing free healthcare and 24x7 electricity. These are steps towards fulfilling the dreams of those who fought for our freedom," she said. Delhis GDP has doubled from Rs 5 lakh crore to Rs 11 lakh crore in just ten years. I dont think there is any other state in the country where the economy has grown so much in such a short span. Delhi is the only state where per capita income is over Rs 4 lakh, which is 2.5 times the national average, she said. Ending on a note of pride, Atishi reiterated the Delhi government's commitment to building a society as envisioned by the freedom fighters -- one where every citizen is empowered and has access to equal opportunities. All India Congress Committee General Secretary and Madhya Pradesh in-charge, Jitendra Singh, inspected the preparations for the upcoming Jai Bapu-Jai Bhim-Jai Samvidhan rally at the Mhow Veterinary College grounds on Friday. While talking to mediapersons here on Saturday, Singh said that over two lakh Congress members and followers of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar are expected to attend the rally, alongside senior leaders from across the country and the state. Singh demanded an apology from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of disrespecting Dr. Ambedkar, and reiterated the Congress Partys commitment to safeguarding the Constitution. The rally, to be held at Dr. Ambedkars birthplace in Mhow, will serve as a platform for Congress leaders and Ambedkar's followers to raise their voices against the BJP, RSS, and the Modi government, vowing to protect the Constitution and uphold its principles. Criticizing the Modi government, Singh alleged that it seeks to alter the Constitution, something the people of India will never tolerate. Referring to past incidents like the suspension of MPs from Parliament and the disqualification of Rahul Gandhis membership, Singh said, The BJP conveniently forgets the Constitution when it suits their agenda. But now, as their slogan of crossing 400 seats dwindles to 240, they have suddenly realized its importance. The Congress is determined to thwart any attempts by the BJP to undermine the Constitution. Singh also accused the BJP of attempting to disrupt the rally by using various tactics, but expressed confidence that millions of Congress workers and Ambedkar's followers will gather in Mhow to defend the Constitution and honor Dr. Ambedkar. He further criticized the BJP-led central and state governments, accusing them of betraying public interests and attacking the rights of marginalized communities. Singh said, Dalits, tribals, backward classes, and the oppressed are being insulted under this government. Corruption, crime, and misgovernance have reached unprecedented levels in Madhya Pradesh, with daily reports of rising criminal activities and scams being a matter of grave concern. Singh also alleged that BJP leaders, despite taking an oath on the Constitution, have disrespected both the Constitution and its architect, Ambedkar. He accused the government of harboring intentions to change the Constitution, warning that such efforts would lead to chaos. The Congress Party and millions of Ambedkars followers will never tolerate such disrespect towards him, he declared. Congress leaders also inspected the rally venue, reviewing arrangements for the stage, pandal, parking, food, accommodation, water, traffic management, and helipad. Prominent Congress leaders present during the inspection included Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Singh, National Secretaries Sanjay Dutt and Chandan Yadav, Anand Chaudhary, Kamleshwar Patel, former Minister Sajjan Singh Verma, Media Department Chairperson Mukesh Nayak, MLAs Pankaj Upadhyay, Satyendra Patel, Vikrant Bhuria, and others. Large numbers of Congress workers and organizers, including Sachin Saluja, Amit Chaurasia, Harsh Jain, Jitu Thakur, and Puneet Sharma, were also present. The Congress on Saturday announced free 'tirth yatra' for Buddhist places if the party is elected in Delhi in the upcoming assembly polls. Addressing a press conference, former Delhi MP Udit Raj said there were no schemes for Buddhist pilgrimages, which the Congress would change if it formed the government. The Delhi government organises pilgrimage for Tirupati, Ayodhya, Vaishno Devi, Balaji for senior citizens at its own expense, Raj said. "So why are there no pilgrimage schemes for the Buddhist places like Sarnath, Bodh Gaya, Lumbini, Deekshaboomi, Mhow etc.," he asked. If our government comes, we will not discriminate and will provide free pilgrimage for them also, Raj stated. The 'Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana' was launched by the AAP government in 2019 to aid the elderly in visiting pilgrimage sites across the country. Under the scheme, the Delhi government organises free pilgrimage travel for the elderly to 15 places of various religious faiths, including Ayodhya, Dwarkadheesh, Puri, Varanasi, Maa Vaishno Devi Dham, Ajmer Sharif, Rameshwaram, Shirdi, Tirupati Balaji and Amritsar. At the press conference, Raj said the Congress had earlier held a protest outside the residence of AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, asking why he did not announce Rs 18,000 salary to Buddhist monks and priests of Ravidas and Valmiki temples. On December 30, Kejriwal announced that the AAP would give a monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 to temple priests and gurdwara granthis under the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana' if it returns to power in Delhi in the upcoming elections. Congress leaders, including Raj, staged a protest near Kejriwal's residence on Monday, demanding a monthly salary for Buddhist monks and priests of Guru Ravidas and Lord Valmiki temples. We have a partial victory because Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath supported our issue in a public meeting at Kirari here, Raj said at the press conference. A fire broke out in a three-storey building in Khanugaon, Bhopal, on Saturday morning around 8 am. The fire started in a sewing centre on the first floor, which was rented by Yunus Qureshi. The centre, filled with sewing machines and bundles of clothes, quickly became engulfed in flames. Eyewitness Fahimuddin Chaudhary, a nearby resident, recalled that a worker from the centre ran out shouting for help, prompting him to notice smoke coming from the building. He immediately alerted the fire brigade.