to mark 80 years since World War Two ended in Europe It comes after the Royal Family watched the Red Arrows fly over the Palace, with the King and Queen waving to thousands of people gathered on the Mall The Prince and Princess of Wales, and their three children, joined the monarch - see the younger royals’ reaction Earlier, the King saluted a military procession watched by thousands of spectators - one family tell the BBC they left home at 05:30 BST to bag a front-row spot The World War Two veterans at today's events are in their late nineties and are representatives of a shrinking number of that generation, our royal correspondent Sean Coughlan writes Watch: The royal moments you may have missed Edited by Nathan Williams and Jack Burgess scotch eggs and pork pies were served to veterans in Downing Street Prime Minister Winston Churchill encouraged the country to "rejoice" as he declared the war in Europe at an end actor Timothy Spall repeated the war leader's words as crowds of military personnel gathered on Parliament Square to commemorate VE Day 80 Their subsequent march to the Mall - where they were saluted by King Charles and other Royal Family members and veterans - kicked off four days of events across the UK Brits even braved the slightly disappointing weather in some parts of the country which failed to put a stop to bunting-clad tea parties - even Downing Street took part A Red Arrows flypast was the headline of today's festivities but there's more to look forward to over the rest of the week Thursday - the anniversary of Churchill's declaration - will see members of the Royal Family attend a thanksgiving service at Westminster it'll be time for a live celebratory concert at Horse Guards Parade to conclude the festivities Until then, you can have a read of our news story to see how it all unfolded today Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWhat's coming up this weekpublished at 18:50 British Summer Time 5 May18:50 BST 5 MayImage caption The BBC will present VE Day 80: A Celebration to Remember a live concert marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day Elsewhere, celebrations are planned across the country. Check your local council website or ve-vjday80.gov.uk, external for events Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'Surrender ratified' – a party with papers from 1945published at 18:44 British Summer Time 5 May18:44 BST 5 MayKris BramwellYour Voice Your BBC News Sam Bawden has been enjoying a VE Day celebration at her parent’s house in Newent threw a party for 25 friends in their barn and the gathered guests have been browsing some old newspapers from around the time of VE Day which Mary found in the loft Sam says: "They are very patriotic my parents." Sam has sent us some of the newspapers the party are browsing - take a look at a couple below: Here is the front page of the Daily Express on 8 May 1945 The 'Victory' issue of the Citizen newspaper on 8 May 1945 Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingA crocheted plane crafted for VE Daypublished at 18:33 British Summer Time 5 May18:33 BST 5 MayKris BramwellYour Voice Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing'The generation that served is fast fading into history'published at 18:23 British Summer Time 5 May18:23 BST 5 MayAshitha NageshReporting from The Mall Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingA procession flypast and street parties - VE Day celebrations in picturespublished at 18:05 British Summer Time 5 May18:05 BST 5 MayImage source The VE Day procession in central London involved more than 1,300 people who was sitting next to veteran Bernard Morgan The King saluted as the procession made its way down the Mall with the Red Arrows taking part in a flypast white and blue smoke could be seen across the sky in central London Three generations of royals watched on from the Buckingham Palace balcony Street parties have been held across the UK Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Fly with the Red Arrows in immersive 360 videopublished at 17:50 British Summer Time 5 May17:50 BST 5 MayThis video can not be played Experience flying with a Red Arrows pilot in immersive video The Royal Air Force's Red Arrows headlined today's flypast As the Royal Family and spectators looked to the skies they might have wondered what it's like to be on board one of the famous jets as the immersive footage below shows a view of London from the cockpit of the planes use your fingers to move the view on your phone If you are watching on the BBC News app, click here for the best experience 360° filming courtesy of the Royal Air Force Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingStories from VE Day 80 years onpublished at 17:37 British Summer Time 5 May17:37 BST 5 MayThomas MackintoshLive reporter Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingWatch: Royal moments you may have missedpublished at 17:19 British Summer Time 5 May17:19 BST 5 MayThis video can not be played The Royal Family were at the heart of today's commemorations to mark 80 years since the end of World War Two in Europe while the King encouraged his family to wave to onlooking crowds from the balcony Watch back some of the moments you might have missed World War Two veteran Norman Brown shows a magic trick to the Queen while sitting at the dining table Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharing98-year-old veteran describes meeting the Kingpublished at 16:51 British Summer Time 5 May16:51 BST 5 MayImage source says King Charles tucked her blanket into her wheelchair during the VE Day parade to stop her getting cold who joined the war effort at 17 and served in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force was sitting next to the King during the procession "I said to him a lot of the women look formidable and he said 'yes"'," Trew tells PA news agency Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingBalloons bunting and bean bags - your street parties picturedpublished at 16:39 British Summer Time 5 May16:39 BST 5 MayImage source BBC/Peter DaviesYou've been sending us the scenes from your street parties around the country where roads have been pedestrianised in favour of tables full of cake and drinks One scene has reached us from Midhurst in West Sussex where Peter Davies and his neighbours have been hard at work to gather members of the community together Contributing to the atmosphere of celebration are balloons Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingTower of London ceramic poppy display returnspublished at 16:30 British Summer Time 5 May16:30 BST 5 MayImage source ReutersAlso forming part of the VE Day commemorations is a display at the Tower of London It's made up of nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies - originally featured in Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red an artwork created to mark the centenary of WW1 and included 888,246 poppies at the castle The poppies are positioned to resemble a wound at the heart of the Tower and visitors can see it with a general admission ticket to the Tower although a small part is visible from the public footpath The exhibition runs until Armistice Day on 11 November Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingRoyals join veterans at Palace tea partypublished at 16:09 British Summer Time 5 May16:09 BST 5 MayImage source PA MediaWhile all these events have been going on the Royal Family have been hosting their own tea party at Buckingham Palace their families and other members of the wartime generation have been invited along We've just received these pictures from the event that we can share with you now Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingInspiration if you're planning a street partypublished at 16:08 British Summer Time 5 May16:08 BST 5 MayImage source street parties are happening around the country and the PM is hosting one in Downing Street If you're planning an event in the next few days to join in the celebrations you'll likely be thinking about which dishes to whip up and deciding on the drinks you'll be toasting with Our colleagues from BBC Food have created a guide on how to throw a street party and have provided all the last-minute inspiration you may need Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingIn pictures: Keir Starmer welcomes guests in Downing Streetpublished at 16:03 British Summer Time 5 May16:03 BST 5 MayImage source has become the venue for a VE Day tea party Here's a quick glance how it's looking as guests enjoy Victoria sponge and musical performances of tunes from the times The prime minister and his wife brought out cakes for the party Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingCake scotch eggs and pork pies at Downing Street tea partypublished at 15:52 British Summer Time 5 May15:52 BST 5 MayImage source PoolAfter attending the military procession and flypast earlier today Prime Minister Keir Starmer is turning his hand to host as guests arrive at Downing Street for a VE Day street party Long tables have been set up outside Number 10 scotch eggs and pork pies on the menu for guests and each seat has been given a commemorative plate and mug with the words VE Day 80 written on them Spotted among the guests so far is comedian Al Murray and Second World War veterans are also expected to be in attendance Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingEarplugs in as HMS Belfast guns firedpublished at 15:48 British Summer Time 5 May15:48 BST 5 MayNick JohnsonReporting from HMS Belfast Watch: Moment HMS Belfast makes gun salute All of us onboard HMS Belfast were urged to put our earplugs in as a public address system announced the ship's guns were about to be fired These guns crucial in softening the German defences on the beaches of Normandy in the early stages of the allied assault of D-Day Shareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingStage at Buckingham Palace being removedpublished at 15:40 British Summer Time 5 May15:40 BST 5 MayMallory Moench and Ashitha NageshReporting from outside Buckingham Palace Workers are beginning to take down the stage in front of Buckingham Palace Most attendees have left or moved on to walk or sit in the park while the usual crowds and tourists have begun to trickle back in It’s gotten colder and the sky has been threatening rain Notifications can be managed in browser preferences. Exclusive: Reform’s new Lincolnshire mayor Andrea Jenkyns has revealed that Farage plans to use the party’s control of councils across England to launch a series of legal challenges to block Labour government policy on net zero and housing asylum seekers I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The announcement by Reform’s new mayor for Greater Lincolnshire, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, came as she spoke to The Independent in her first major interview since her victory was declared on Friday morning She said that high on the agenda were plans to take the Labour government to court in a bid to block net zero projects like solar and wind farms as well as attempts by the Home Office to house asylum seekers in Lincolnshire It came as The Independent revealed that another top priority, to sack council diversity officers, has fallen flat after it emerged Lincolnshire County Council does not employ any With Reform winning nearly 700 local council seats and holding a majority in Kent Sir Keir’s government could be facing a flurry of legal challenges Taking control of councils means Reform has an opportunity to spend taxpayers’ money on expensive legal challenges which they would have struggled to afford as a political party It brings the prospect of legal tactics imported from the US to try to bring the government to a standstill by tying it up in the courts The threat could play out in the political battlefield until the next general election where Mr Farage hopes his populist right-wing party can win and install him in Downing Street The threat has provoked a furious warning from Downing Street as Labour already bruised from defeats in the local election just 10 months after winning power A No 10 source told The Independent: “The public rightly expect more than legal challenges and faux anger from their MPs As she prepares to be sworn in on Thursday next week as mayor with a large majority of Reform councillors on the county council, former Tory MP Dame Andrea admitted: “All eyes are going to be on us.” she explained how she and Reform deputy leader Richard Tice who represents a Lincolnshire seat as an MP discussed how to get on with legal challenges “What we really want to do is really push back on the Miliband stuff really be a thorn in their side and do legal challenges against it and we’re going to start doing stuff on the migrant hotels as well in Lincolnshire “We’re going to start pushing back and put pressure on [the Labour government] I was speaking to HQ yesterday about possibly starting legal challenges As the new mayor was speaking to The Independent she received a message from a local company inquiring about finding tents for migrants to be put in Dame Andrea had said in her acceptance speech that asylum seekers should be housed in tents and she said she has “no regrets” over the remarks which sent shockwaves around the country when you get homeless veterans and you house illegal migrants in hotels but the mainstream media hadn’t picked up on it.” While Sir Keir’s government has increased the returns of illegal migrants a plan to obtain housing from landlords to house asylum seekers broke down in the middle of the election campaign Added to that, the crisis at British Steel in Lincolnshire, which ended up with the government nationalising it, and an intervention by Sir Tony Blair, put massive pressure on Sir Keir and Mr Miliband over their net zero policies. The legal challenge strategy was partly confirmed by Reform chair Zia Yusuf on the BBC. He said his party would use “every instrument of power available” when asked how the party would stop migrants from being housed in the areas where it now controls the councils, because contracts for such provisions are drawn up between the Home Office and accommodation providers. “Judicial reviews, injunctions, there’s planning laws, he told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme. “You know, a lot of these hotels – there has been litigation around this already – a lot of these hotels, when you suddenly turn them into something else, which is essentially a hostel that falls foul of any number of regulations, and that’s what our teams of lawyers are exploring at the moment.” Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies govt and politics"},{"score":0.820958,"label":"/law govt and politics/politics"},{"score":0.74289,"label":"/law govt and politics/politics/political parties"},{"score":0.696763,"label":"/law govt and 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0px;}.css-1to03ck::before{content:'';margin-bottom:-0.2667em;display:block;}.css-1to03ck::after{content:'';margin-top:-0.3667em;display:block;}Listen https://www.wsj.com/business/media/marvel-avengers-mcu-robert-downey-jr-dr-doom-311f9ffc ShareResizeListen LOS ANGELES—The head of Marvel Studios told colleagues recently that watching all the comic-book giant’s new TV shows and films had started to feel more like homework than entertainment the studio behind “The Avengers” churned out too many movies and shows with interconnected stories Papal electors gossip in bars and restaurants and try to avoid journalists seeking clues to Pope Francis’s successor Some journalists brave the warm spring sun others seek respite in the shade of the Vatican’s colonnades the aim is the same: to spot the red-capped cardinals emerging from Synod Hall and try to elicit from them a clue as to who will succeed Pope Francis The men responsible for picking a new pontiff are enjoying rock-star status in Rome this week as they prepare for conclave: the secret centuries-old ritual of electing a leader of the Catholic church that is due to begin on 7 May Marina García Diéguez is among the journalists partaking in the daily stakeout but was quick to suss out the cunning ways the cardinals try to avoid the gaggle of reporters “Each one has his own strategy,” said Diéguez who works for the Spanish radio station Cadena Ser and Mediaset España “Some already have cars with blacked-out windows waiting for them Others remove their red skullcaps and leave by foot taking a route that crosses St Peter’s Square where they can get lost among the tourists before escaping through Via della Conciliazione.” It was at that point that you stood a good chance of catching one Cardinal Stephen Chow Sau-yan of Hong Kong is approached by reporters outside the Vatican Photograph: Gregorio Borgia/APDiéguez had managed to obtain quotes from a couple an Italian cardinal whose name cropped up this week among the favourites for pope The Guardian’s attempt to give chase was not as successful is a very good thing,” said an Argentinian cardinal in Italian: “But we are working very well together,” and striding off About 180 cardinals from all over the world have been gathering each morning this week at Synod Hall to get to know each other and to share their visions of the church but ultimately to establish a clear pope contender 133 are eligible to vote after two dropped out of the conclave for health reasons Eight in 10 of the voters were appointed by Francis with 20 becoming cardinals only in December Francis made a point of selecting cardinals from places where there had never previously been one Jorge Enrique Jiménez Carvajal Photograph: Gregorio Borgia/APDuring conclave the men will be sequestered in their humble lodgings at Casa Santa Marta the guesthouse where Pope Francis lived during his 12-year papacy The cardinals swear an oath of silence before each pre-conclave meeting and will do so again when the election begins it is in the bars and restaurants in the area surrounding the Vatican where the real talking happens with some mischievous cardinals exploiting the press while they can to leak titbits or to discredit the main candidates has been a favourite among Rome’s clergy for years According to a framed newspaper article hanging on the wall plotted to ensure the election of Joseph Ratzinger in the 2005 conclave Showing a photo on his phone of a plain-clothed Wuerl in Al Passetto di Borgo Raniero Mancinelli is on his own initiative making outfits for the next pope Photograph: Gregorio Borgia/APThe only information Fulvimari had been able to glean from his prestigious clients this week was that they wanted the conclave over “as soon as possible” “But this is where the real decisions get made.” the presence of cardinals has petered out because of journalists Another meeting point is reportedly Caffe dei Papi a coffee bar tucked away from the main hubbub on Via Vespasiano “But I never know when they are here,” said Ilda the main chatter in the bar has revolved around who will be elected pope “I think it should be someone who embraces everyone,” said Ilda is a lapsed Catholic and therefore indifferent “I’m just happy they’ve cleaned the streets,” he said “The only time that happens around here is when a pope dies.” It’s lovely to have the sunshine — we all enjoy walking past our coats on the way out of the door — but the heat brings them out It’s 12 hours into it being 20C for the first time this summer and the exact colour of the blood on the pavement contents: one small antibac dispenser and my reading glasses — from the restaurant I left it in last week the restaurant is outside the police-tape cordon Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF. Connecting decision makers to a dynamic network of information, people and ideas, Bloomberg quickly and accurately delivers business and financial information, news and insight around the world refine warnings for a glut and brace for more twists after the cartel announced an additional 411,000 barrels a day of supply for June The meeting that signed off on the surge was advanced by two days to Saturday Riyadh followed up with a warning yet more increases could be in store The Reform UK party’s firebrand leader is celebrating one of his most famous victories after ousting Labour in a stronghold seat that Keir Starmer’s center-left government should never have lost.  Farage has been seen as a bigger threat to the Conservatives than the left.  But after winning the special by-election for parliament in Runcorn and Helsby north-west England — and taking hundreds of local council seats too — he is making good on his vow to go after Labour.  If there is one thing Thursday’s set elections in England shows it’s that the Reform UK surge which has taken the party into first place in opinion polls in recent months is real.  That in turn means it is no longer fantasy politics to ask whether sooner or later Farage himself could end up as Britain’s prime minister.  First of all it’s worth appreciating the scale of the party’s achievement in Runcorn Excluding the seat held by the Commons Speaker Runcorn was Labour’s 49th safest constituency with a majority of almost 15,000 votes — 34.8 per cent — at the last election he might well think there’s no place he can’t succeed.  the Runcorn result would put more than 350 of the 411 seats Labour won at the 2024 election now firmly in the danger zone That’s more than enough to win a majority in the 650-seat House of Commons and a nightmarish prospect for Starmer’s government just 10 months after its landslide victory.  Reform won by a tiny margin in Runcorn on Thursday — just six votes And conventional wisdom holds that one by-election and one set of local council victories are poor guides to what will happen at a general election when the government of the country is at stake.  But recent history in British politics and elsewhere suggests conventional wisdom may be the worst guide of all.  Few of the conventionally wise predicted Brexit in 2016 or the rise (and return) of Donald Trump populist rightwing parties are consistently chipping away at the centrist mainstream.  The populist right is surging in France and Germany and has been in power in Italy since 2022 These are all Western European G7 economies with a lot in common with the U.K Why should Starmer’s Labour Party be immune to the threat?  Even though Reform UK is highly unlikely to replicate Runcorn by wiping out Labour at the next general election it could still do enough damage to rob the government of its majority Reform is currently in second place behind Labour in 89 seats Some 60 of these are in the north of England and 13 in Wales areas conventionally seen as Labour heartlands.  Labour’s lead over Reform is fewer than 8,000 votes These encompass the seats held by numerous ministers including Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.  The small majority can be a misleading thing It was a feature of Labour’s dramatic landslide last year that the party won many more of its seats by small margins — quite deliberately It was a result of a dazzlingly successful effort to spread its campaign resources in the target seats where they were most needed rather than building up piles of votes in seats they already had in the bag.  Under the U.K.’s “first past the post” electoral system that delivered the most disproportionate election result in history with Labour winning 63 per cent of the seats in the Commons with just 34 per cent of the votes cast in the country Farage’s Reform UK suffered the reverse effect due to a highly inefficient campaign They amassed 14 per cent of votes — 4.1 million nationally — but only won five seats in the Commons last year (one of those elected has left the party since) That was a result of having no real campaign infrastructure no organization of ground troops to knock on doors and very little planning Farage only entered the election contest himself two weeks into the campaign having previously ruled out standing.  Some Labour strategists take comfort from the fact that Thursday’s results could have been worse and are patting themselves on the back for still having a good ground operation that can deliver when it counts They still have time to turn the polls around before the general election expected in 2029 After winning hundreds of seats in local councils this week it will have a chance to build an election infrastructure and an army of activists who can deliver leaflets and organize campaigns around the country far more effectively If Farage’s election strategists can mobilize these greater resources more efficiently there is no reason why he won’t have an army of MPs to command after the next election.  Reform has already started professionalizing its approach and focusing ruthlessly on its election machinery including boosting its membership to what it now claims to be 227,000 — larger than the Tories and closing in on Labour’s total.  “We’ve certainly taken these council elections so much more seriously than we’ve ever done before,” said Alex Wilson These elections are crucial for “getting that sort of information and data locally on the ground that will then feed into targeting for future campaigns,” Wilson said “Having a base of people elected in local government then gives you people that will be leading the campaigning on the ground as well because your best foot soldiers are those who’ve got skin in the game.”  Last year, Starmer’s strategists took the conscious decision not to fight Farage (and were delighted when he entered the election) because they knew he would do more damage to the Conservatives they were right and Labour stormed to its landslide Many Tories are deeply worried about their dire results this week and calls for some kind of merger or pact with Reform are likely to grow.  Starmer and his top aides also now see the risks. Labour’s strategy is to try to be tough on Farage and tough on the causes of Farage, to adapt Tony Blair’s famous phrase. They’re working to show off their successes at tackling illegal immigration and to revive ailing public services Labour strategists plan to keep hammering Farage over his past comments expressing admiration for Vladimir Putin as well as his suggestion that the NHS needs a fundamental rethink of its funding model.  Voters opted for “change” last year — it was Labour’s one-word election slogan It’s not clear that they will be willing to wait with cynicism apparently on the rise.  As the British Election Study found, Labour’s 2024 landslide came amid high levels of political alienation with one in three voters saying they have “no trust” in politicians That kind of attitude makes a fragmented electoral landscape even more volatile British voters veered wildly from giving a huge majority of 80 seats to Boris Johnson’s Tories to ejecting them from office with their worst ever result and handing a massive landslide of 174 seats to Labour According to POLITICO’s Poll of Polls voters have no clear favorite for the next election yet but clearly don’t like either of the two traditional main parties Reform UK is currently in the lead on 26 per cent with Labour has fallen to 24 per cent and the Conservatives to 21 per cent Could Farage convert this position into a realistic bid for Downing Street in 2029 professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London is skeptical of Reform’s chances but not totally dismissive there’s still a ceiling to their support given how poorly Farage is regarded by most Brits given the likelihood that some of the people currently winning all these seats for them will end up embarrassing him and given they might not be able to match Labour’s (and the Lib Dems’) ground game,” Bale said I wouldn’t completely rule it out — what sort of results ‘first past the post’ might throw up if both Labour and the Tories remain phenomenally unpopular and we have “We are now the opposition party in the U.K and the Tories are a waste of space,” Farage said — as he racked up hundreds of council wins tells POLITICO the West must create a “strike fund” to support civil resistance and paralyze the government Elon Musk and JD Vance don’t know enough to judge the country’s election crisis says Bucharest Mayor and presidential candidate Nicușor Dan British forces already took part in strikes against Houthis so don’t call us “freeloaders,” former defense secretary says Essential digital access to quality FT journalism on any device Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders Complete digital access to quality analysis and expert insights complemented with our award-winning Weekend Print edition Terms & Conditions apply Discover all the plans currently available in your country See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times HULL City's captain and his teammate and ex-pro boxer brothers have been involved in a daylight street brawl outside a pub Footage appears to show the Championship club's topless skipper Lewie Coyle, 29, being led away from a spat by his brother Rocco, 18, in Hull city centre yesterday evening The Championship team leader also supposedly was with his ex-pro boxer brother at the scene outside the Empress pub at around 8pm who recorded the incident while travelling home on a bus said traffic had to come to a halt as the scrap had spilt on to the road The brawl was spotted just off Alfred Gelder Street and the footage shows at least a dozen people involved said: "It all happened yesterday at around 8pm in town in Hull in the city centre "At the time I wasn't aware it was Lewie Coyle - I saw him being pushed by his brother." The witness said the bus came to a stop as Rocco Coyle guided his brother across the road by putting both hands on his chest. Lewie walked backwards away from the scene to the other side of the road as two women walked with them. "They were fighting right in the middle of the road so the bus was blocked "This bus and the other side of the road were both blocked." The source said he didn't know why the pair were fighting but that there were "lots of people" involved Once the camera pans back over to where the brawl happened a man can be seen with blood on his face surrounded by other men The bloody bust-up reportedly happened after bank holiday drinks at the nearby boozer Later it emerged that the fight started in a pub when the Coyles were in a bust-up with Norland Sharks rugby league ace James Sizer CCTV shows the fight breaking out in the pub before spilling out onto the street Pals said James was hospitalised in the incident and had a CT scan to make sure there was no lasting brain damage A source told the Sun: "The CCTV that has been released in the pub is only a fraction of what went on "Fans will be shocked when they see everything that happened "Suddenly the whole pub seemed to be brawling "It was like something out of the Wild West." Hull City have acknowledged the video and said they are looking into the matter The club released a statement today saying: "Hull City is aware of a video currently circulating on social media and has launched an investigation into the matter "The club will refrain from making further comment until the investigation has been concluded." BBC Humberside Sport shared the statement with the caption: "We’ve received this statement from Hull City after a video emerged on social media last night which appears to show club captain involved in an incident in Hull city centre." is a professional footballer who plays as a right-back and currently captains Hull City in the English Championship Coyle began his career at Leeds United before gaining first-team experience during loan spells at Fleetwood Town is following in his footsteps as a promising midfielder in Hull City’s academy having recently signed his first professional contract Hull City drew 1 - 1 with Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday securing their survival on the last day of the Championship Lewie confessed that it's been a "difficult year" but he's proud of his team and grateful for the support that was showed to them on the final day He admitted to ITV: "It's been a difficult year for us this year "We've been at the other end of the table "A lot of it is down to our own doing "I know exactly what that means to everyone inside that dressing room and I couldn't be more proud of the lads "When our backs were against the wall and the chips were down I found out a lot about me and my teammates The Sun has reached out to Hull City and Humberside Police for comment Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click this link: thesun.co.uk/editorial-complaints/ US EditionUK EditionScottish SunIrish SunSearchMy Account Hull City have launched an investigation after their club captain Lewie Coyle appeared to be involved in a street fight Footage on social media seemingly shows Coyle being led away by his brother Rocco The Sun reports that the incident took place outside the Empress pub at around 8pm A source who filmed the altercation whilst travelling on a bus told the outlet that it had to stop in the road due to the fight BBC Humberside Sport said on X: "We've received this statement from Hull City after a video emerged on social media last night which appears to show club captain The statement from Championship side Hull read: "Hull City is aware of a video currently circulating on social media and has launched an investigation into the matter The incident took place the day after Hull avoided relegation from the Championship. Ruben Selles' side drew 1-1 with Portsmouth on the final day of the season to confirm their place in the second tier. Hull finished level on 49 points with Luton Town but finished in the last safety spot with a better goal difference. Plymouth Argyle and Cardiff City have all been relegated Doyle featured in all but two of Hull's 46 Championship matches this season the 29-year-old joined the Tigers in 2020 from Fleetwood Town Doyle has made 188 appearances in all competitions since scoring four goals and assisting another nine Speaking after they secured Championship safety on Saturday he told ITV: "It's been a difficult year for us this year and we've suffered a lot this year at times "But I know exactly what that meant to everybody inside that dressing room today and I couldn't be more proud of the lads "Because when our backs were against the wall and chips were down I found out a lot about me and my teammates today Next season will be Hull's fifth consecutive Championship campaign By 2025-05-05T18:17:00+01:00 Source: Bleecker Street / LD Entertainment Bleecker Street has made its latest foray into genre partnering with long-time collaborator LD Entertainment to acquire US rights to Mercedes Bryce Morgan’s survival thriller and Fantastic Fest in 2024 selection Bone Lake Mister Smith has come on board to handle international sales starting in Cannes and Andra Nechita star in the story about a couple’s romantic secluded lakeside vacation that goes awry when they are forced to share a mansion with a mysterious and attractive couple bringing terrifying secrets to light and triggering a bloody battle for survival with Joshua Friedlander and Jason Blumenfeld Executive producers include Mehrdod Heydari and Joseph Yakob for LD Entertainment Bleecker Street will release the film theatrically on October 10 Avy Eschenasy and Miranda King negotiated the deal with LD’s Michael Glassman and UTA Independent Film Group on behalf of the filmmakers Bleecker Street and LD Entertainment have collaborated on I.S.S. Bleecker’s growing genre activity saw the company release Andrew Cumming’s prehistoric horror-thriller Out Of Darkness last year while creepypasta adaptation The Third Parent starring Rob Lowe Crispin Glover and Roselyn Sanchez is in post-production and set for an early 2026 release A restored version of This Is Spinal Tap will open on July 5 ahead of the sequel Bleecker recently acquired US rights to Max Walker-Silverman’s Sundance drama Rebuilding starring Josh O’Connor that also opens later this year Mister Smith and LD Entertainment previously collaborated on the upcoming Cannes Directors’ Fortnight entry Dangerous Animals which IFC Films and Shudder will distribute in the US Oscar winner proposing federal tax incentives Monday’s statement to reporters follows Truth Social ‘Ish’ and ‘Learning To Breathe Under Water’ will also feature ’Thunderbolts*’ has achieved the third-biggest opening number for a US studio film in 2025 Bookmark this page to keep track of all the latest festival dates Screen International is the essential resource for the international film industry access to the Screen International archive and supplements including Stars of Tomorrow and World of Locations Site powered by Webvision Cloud Britain has today begun its commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day News | London Thousands of people have lined the streets of central London on Bank Holiday Monday to hear a performance of Churchill’s speech and take in a military procession and a flypast to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day Armed forces from Nato allies joined a procession in London to mark the end of the Second World War in Europe as Sir Keir Starmer said this week’s events are a reminder that victory was “not just for Britain” The words of Sir Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech, spoken by actor Timothy Spall, began the commemorations, which featured a display by the Red Arrows during a flypast by 23 current and historic military aircraft appearances by senior royals and street parties across the UK The royal family, who watched the flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace, are hoping the fallout from Harry’s bombshell security interview will not ‘distract’ from the VE Day celebrations. Downing Street and No10 are also hosting tea parties as the events start the build-up to Thursday which marks exactly 80 years since the Allies formally accepted Germany’s surrender After attending the military procession and flypast earlier today Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made his way back to Downing Street to play host to guests Downing Street has become the venue for a VE Day tea party Two long tables have been lined with gold and red chairs for the special occasion Bunting is also hanging over the tables and draped over the ground floor windows of No 10 Musicians from the Band of the Grenadier Guards played songs to the guests as they received drinks on arrival Among the guests were Second World War veterans Ruth Brook Klauber and Colin Deverell, both aged 101. Prince George joined his parents — along with King Charles and Queen Camilla — for a tea party at Buckingham Palace for veterans and the members of the wartime generation said the King was “very understanding” when he spoke about his service while at the Palace He said: “He is a very interesting person and he seems very understanding “We spoke for a while about my service and the memories I have of the war.” Mr Piper said that he has “lots of memories” of the war He added: “The men I served with gave it their all for this country it’s right they’re still remembered and I hope the young generations keep remembering them “Today has been superb but very overwhelming.” A veteran who was cold during the VE Day military procession said the King “tucked” her in who signed up to join the war effort aged 17 and served in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force said Charles had leaned down and tucked her blanket into her wheelchair during the parade to prevent her from getting chilly who grew up in Bristol but now lives in Wells in Somerset said: “I said to him (the King) a lot of the women look formidable and he said ‘yes’” The 98-year-old said she discussed parenting with Charles and told him she had tried to be a strict mother to her children The uniform worn by the King as he marked the end of the Second World War in Europe reflected what his grandfather George VI wore when he stepped on to the Buckingham Palace balcony on VE Day 80 years ago Charles wore the naval No.1 dress uniform to see Monday’s military procession and flypast in central London to kick off four days of celebration The Queen paid tribute to her family’s military legacy with a 12th Royal Lancers brooch – her late father’s regiment – pinned to her sapphire blue wool crepe dress and coat served with the 12th Lancers during the Second World War and was awarded the Military Cross in 1940 during the retreat to Dunkirk and again in 1942 for his efforts in North Africa and was later wounded and taken prisoner while fighting in the same region refugees and local families have joined together for a VE Day street party in one of Britain’s most bombed neighbourhoods The event in the historic Docklands area of east London — one of the locations most heavily hit during the Blitz — was organised by the Bengali Association local refugee support and other community groups The celebration featured 1940s music and dancing Morse code demonstrations and food ranging from BBQ favourites to VE Day biryani visitors explored an exhibition of family connections to the war including a poster created by local refugee Abdul Shakoor about the British Indian Army The Prince of Wales told 101-year-old Alfred Littlefield that his son Prince George is “interested” in learning about veterans Samantha Davidson said: “The Prince said George is very interested in finding out about the veterans “George even asked my grandfather how old he was during his service.” She said that Mr Littlefield was very happy that George has taken an interest in the past The Prince of Wales spoke of the importance of preserving veterans’ stories as he was joined by his son and former service personnel at a tea party in Buckingham Palace William smiled as he shook hands with veterans and said it was “very important” for Prince George and the “next generation” to hear the stories from those who fought in the war George listened intently as his father chatted to Alfred Littlefield who joined the merchant navy aged 18 in 1944 that his son was “very keen” to ask the former serviceman some questions The pair joined the party as veterans and senior politicians enjoyed a selection of finger sandwiches soup and homemade scotch eggs in the Marble Hall Prince Louis steals the show at VE Day parade as he keeps dad William looking sharp and mimics brother George Prince Louis steals show with sweet antics at VE parade Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in major blow for Putin ahead of Victory Day celebrations Ukraine 'launches stunning Kursk offensive' in blow for Putin VE Day 2025 fashion: best looks from the day VE Day 2025 fashion: Princess of Wales to Lady Victoria Starmer UK tourists face major travel shake-up as Dubai airport set to close David Beckham’s 50th birthday bash in London 'shut down' by council over noise complaints David Beckham’s 50th birthday bash 'shut down' over noise complaints A large emergency service response was called to the Torridon Park area of Forres on Sunday night. Firearm officers were called to a property in the Torridon Park area of Forres at around 8pm on Sunday after reports of concern for a person. Around half a dozen police vehicles, ambulances and specialist firearms officers were at the scene. A 34-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and is due to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court on Tuesday. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 8.05pm on Sunday, May 4, 2025, officers were called to a concern for a man within a property in Torridon Park, Forres. “Officers attended and a 34-year-old man was later arrested in connection. He is due to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. “A report will be forwarded to the Procurator Fiscal.” STV News is now on WhatsAppGet all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Follow STV News on WhatsAppScan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country '+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.webview_notification_text+' "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_title+" "+scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_text+" exclusive scoops and rival editors on the warpath but in the years since the British press left Fleet Street the area has been struggling with something of an identity crisis a new literary festival is aiming to lure editors journalists and readers back to the historic thoroughfare which was as notorious for its offices of smoking hacks at typewriters as it was for the booze-soaked bars frequented by them."},"children":[]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Aiming to “explore how words shape our world” the inaugural Fleet Street Quarter Festival of Words is a cultural programme of events that covers current affairs and journalism Alongside breakfast briefings with journalists and fireside chats with beauty editors the multi-venue"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":200})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"It was once the home of liquid lunches A literary festival this month hopes to build on that heritage","slug":"fleet-street-quarter-festival-words-literature-event","categoryPath":"/uk/london/article/fleet-street-quarter-festival-words-literature-event-zsr0rhkpp","__typename":"Article"},"Image:a731bc26-ce45-4dfb-8e1b-fdb68fa7a403":{"caption":"The news history of the Fleet Street area is long and storied","credits":"mickey lee/mediamixer","title":"Street scene in London music and cultural events this week — the critics’ guide","id":"65deee1c-f643-442c-8a24-0bb513291bfd","label":null,"publicationName":"TIMES","publishedTime":"2025-05-01T23:00:00.000Z","updatedTime":"2025-05-01T15:06:27.000Z","section":null,"shortIdentifier":"fdz9skf39","shortHeadline":"Going out or staying in Our critics pick the best things to do this week","seoDescription":"From The Waterboys to Christopher Wheeldon: these are the productions and exhibitions to see in London and nationwide according to our critics","slug":"best-art-theatre-music-books-this-week","categoryPath":"/culture/art/article/best-art-theatre-music-books-this-week-fdz9skf39","__typename":"Article","summary({\"maxCharCount\":105})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring spiritually inclined folk-rock pastoralism the Waterboys"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring the Waterboys took a big left turn"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring the Waterboys took a big left turn with their latest"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring the Waterboys took a big left turn with their latest album "},"children":[]},{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Life Death"},"children":[]}]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring Death and Dennis"},"children":[]}]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"italic","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Will Hodgkinson"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"break","children":[]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Best known for their soaring Death and Dennis Hopper"},"children":[]}]},{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":" York and more — many free of charge — and charming places to spend the night","slug":"seven-of-the-uks-best-museum-and-gallery-exhibitions-for-2025","categoryPath":"/travel/destinations/uk-travel/seven-of-the-uks-best-museum-and-gallery-exhibitions-for-2025-5drjcr2h2","__typename":"Article","summary({\"maxCharCount\":105})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches museums and galleries across the UK are unveiling exciting exhibitions for"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches museums and galleries across the UK are unveiling exciting exhibitions for 2025 No matter where"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches from"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches from London to"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches you’ll"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"As the new year approaches A literary festival this month hopes to build on that heritageThe news history of the Fleet Street area is long and storiedMICKEY LEE/MEDIAMIXERLiz ConnorMonday May 05 2025 The TimesIt was once the home of liquid lunches which was as notorious for its offices of smoking hacks at typewriters as it was for the booze-soaked bars frequented by them Aiming to “explore how words shape our world” Home   News   Article There is currently a heavy police presence on Kenneth Street due a road traffic incident It has been reported the road is shut between Telford Street roundabout and Tomnahurich Street Traffic Scotland said: “The A82 in Kenneth Street is currently closed in both directions due to a road traffic collision “Motorists are advised to use a different route at this time.” Police Scotland has been contacted for comment The beloved Bermondsey Street festival is set to return on 20th September 2025 but the organisers need the help of local people Local businesses and people have rallied around this cherished community event in the past the organisers are actively seeking the support of volunteers to help on the day and local businesses who are interested in sponsorship opportunities.  Bermondsey Street Festival began as a small local festival and has grown in size and scale over the years It has become a cornerstone of local culture live music and community displays to the iconic Bermondsey Street.   Nestled amongst the small businesses and cafes on the street the village fete closes the summer season and opens autumn with engaging activities including a Maypole and even a Dog Show.  The festival was rescued last year by London Glassblowing and Daniel Cobb Estate Agents who stepped in to organise the event after the original organiser the festival maintains the much-loved structure with the addition of new activities and a wider variety of stalls They have promised an expanded event this year with new attractions and even a dedicated family area.  to ensure the iconic event can continue to thrive local volunteers are needed to ensure the smooth running in the lead-up and on the day.  has overseen the event’s revival alongside Leanna Durham She said: “After the incredible community response that saved our festival last year we’re thrilled to bring it back with even more to offer “The public showed us just how much this celebration means to the neighbourhood and we’ve worked tirelessly and taken on public feedback to ensure this year’s festival exceeds expectations.” There will be an emphasis this year on ensuring the festival has a family-friendly feel with additional activities and entertainment areas for visitors of all ages Gena said: “I have witnessed first-hand how the festival fosters connection “Bermondsey Street Festival is an invaluable event for businesses makers and entrepreneurs on the street and in the area to showcase their talents – not to mention the beautiful memories it creates simply strolling the stalls.” Those interested in contributing their time or financial support are encouraged to contact the festival: hello@bermondseystreetfestival.com We'll never send you spam or share your email address Find out more in our Privacy Policy and website in this browser for the next time I comment Please enter your username or email address to reset your password The prime minister has hosted a tea party at Downing Street to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day commemorating the Allied victory in Europe in 1945 Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria met World War II veterans after stepping out of Number 10 holding a tray of cakes © 2023 Independent Television News Limited Senior Features ReporterPublished: Invalid Date HUNDREDS of music fans formed a massive queue outside HMV to meet Twenty One Pilots The US rock duo signed posters and mingled with supporters at the Glasgow Argyle Street branch ahead of their OVO Hydro show tonight Some wacky yet wonderful outfits were on display as folk paid homage to their heroes' typical black and red theme Security were in good spirits after sharing a laugh with the large crowd of people as the line extended all the way to JD Sports a few doors down The Mitchell family travelled all the way from Newcastle to meet Tyler Joseph and Josh Dunn so they could share a special night of tunes together. "When we met them and I couldn't speak "Other people were so happy that they left the shop crying." Pals Celine, 23, and Lucie, 25, came from Germany to attend the gig with friends. They'd never met their favourite musicians before despite attending dozens of shows over the last decade Celine said: "This is the 10th show of this tour we've been to "We cam here just for this and it was amazing to meet them." We spoke to them and it was the weirdest 20 seconds of my life." Our journalists strive for accuracy but on occasion we make mistakes. For further details of our complaints policy and to make a complaint please click here Union Street in Inverness was closed for just over an hour following the incident. The incident took place on Union Street at around 3.15pm on Saturday, May 3. Emergency services attended the scene, and the road was closed to ensure the area was safe before being reopened again just over an hour later. Two men, aged 38 and 24, and a 24-year-old woman were arrested in connection and have since been charged with reckless conduct. The trio are expected to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court at a later date. A spokesperson for the force said: “At around 3.15pm on Saturday, we received a report of masonry having fallen from a building on Union Road, Inverness. “Emergency services attended and the road was closed for the area to be made safe. There were no reported injuries. “Two men, aged 38 and 24, and one woman, aged 24, have been arrested and charged in connection with reckless conduct. “They are due to appear at Inverness Sheriff at a later date.” Jacob Roberts has shared the blackmail twist at the heart of his Coronation Street alter ego Kit Green's connection to Mick Michaelis (Joe Layton) Viewers are set to see Kit's past explored in a flashback special, just as Mick manages to wriggle out of trouble after a violent run-in with Gary Windass (Mikey North) over Mick's treatment of Liam Connor (Charlie Wrenshall) Speaking to RadioTimes.com and other media at a recent press event Roberts was sworn to secrecy on exactly what Kit's big secret is But he did explain that Mick has a hold over Kit that prevents the latter from holding him to account Is Kit scared of the knowledge that Mick has over him \"I [wouldn't] say he was scared,\" mused the actor It is a past that he doesn't want to bring up again it's where you have friends back in the day that you'd never want to meet any of your friends today; you don't want them to tell stories of what happened back in the day you sort of want to keep that stuff secret.\" Roberts added that Kit can only be pushed so far: \"He knows he's got something on him I think that's what'll happen with Kit - he'll only take [so] much.\" Expanding on the moment Kit steps in for Mick the star delved into Kit's complex mindset on the matter Asked how he felt upon learning that Kit would be the focus of a flashback episode they must be focusing on the character; I must be doing something right with the character if they want to get to know him and find out why he is the way he is \"It was obviously a different life he led back then,\" he added \"He's changed it around and obviously Mick hasn't so it was good to find out what actually happened.\" Offering a last teaser over the revelations to come Roberts confirmed of Kit: \"And he's not so innocent it just shows that he wasn't so innocent back in the day.\" It's not just a case of Kit keeping secrets as he soon realises that he could be the biological father of Brody Michaelis (played by Ryan Mulvey) - the teenage son of Lou (Farrel Hegarty) Discussing how Kit would feel if Brody is revealed to be his son Roberts pondered: \"I don't think you can change a lad although I don't think he thinks anything will change I've got nothing to do with this kid.' If it is his blood he should have been told about it because I don't think he can necessarily change what's gonna happen with Brody and he'll be upset or angry that Lou never told him that he had a child so how can he be ready for a 16-year-old lad who's already learned off his dad Mick?\" Coronation Street airs the flashback special focusing on a teenage Kit Visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news Jacob Roberts teases Kit's blackmail twist and Coronation Street flashback revealKit's past is coming back to haunt him Viewers are set to see Kit's past explored in a flashback special, just as Mick manages to wriggle out of trouble after a violent run-in with Gary Windass (Mikey North) over Mick's treatment of Liam Connor (Charlie Wrenshall) Speaking to RadioTimes.com and other media at a recent press event Roberts was sworn to secrecy on exactly what Kit's big secret is "I [wouldn't] say he was scared," mused the actor It is a past that he doesn't want to bring up again it's where you have friends back in the day that you'd never want to meet any of your friends today; you don't want them to tell stories of what happened back in the day you sort of want to keep that stuff secret." ITVRoberts added that Kit can only be pushed so far: "He knows he's got something on him I think that's what'll happen with Kit - he'll only take [so] much." the star delved into Kit's complex mindset on the matter because Gary's no angel as well." Sign up to be the first to know about breaking stories and new series By entering your details you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply "It was obviously a different life he led back then," he added "He's changed it around and obviously Mick hasn't so it was good to find out what actually happened." Roberts confirmed of Kit: "And he's not so innocent it just shows that he wasn't so innocent back in the day." ITVIt's not just a case of Kit keeping secrets Roberts pondered: "I don't think you can change a lad although I don't think he thinks anything will change I've got nothing to do with this kid.' If it is his blood he should have been told about it because I don't think he can necessarily change what's gonna happen with Brody "I think it would come as a shock to him and he'll be upset or angry that Lou never told him that he had a child so how can he be ready for a 16-year-old lad who's already learned off his dad Mick?" Visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news Laura DenbyFreelance WriterLaura Denby is a Freelance Soaps writer covering all the latest news in the Dales She's a soaps nerd with a love for comedy drama you are agreeing to site title privacy policy This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Subscribe to RT!Subscribe to Radio Times magazine and get £10 issues for £10! Could your home unlock your dreams?Releasing equity from your home could help give you the retirement you've been dreaming of? Holiday brochuresNeed inspiration of where to go next Request a free brochure and start your journey Jane Watterson during VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Laurence Gorman and William Craig at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Jane Watterson and her grandson Elliot at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Cameron Lilley and Jenni Stanex at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Glyn & Jane Harbinson at the VE Day celebrations on the Woodstock Road in Belfast on the 5th May 2025 (Luke Jervis/Belfast Telegraph) Niamh CampbellYesterday at 18:15The sun was shining down on May Day Monday as families and entertainers gathered for VE Day celebrations in east Belfast May 8 will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with people across the nation taking this week to commemorate an extraordinary milestone since the end of the Second World War DUP leader Gavin Robinson remarked that “street parties across the UK and here at home reflect our shared history and our duty to never forget” the Titanic May Community Festival got underway on the Woodstock Road from 12pm on Monday Revellers young and old came out to enjoy the day who is a dedicated member of the East Belfast Community Committee He attended Monday’s festivities alongside the East Belfast Arch Committee who are fundraising for a Loyal Orders Arch to be installed at Templemore Avenue on July 1 John said that VE Day is important to him “because our young ones need to be educated by people like us as to what older ones — older than me — gave up so that we can remain in a free and democratic society today and I don’t think it is educated [as much] now “I was fortunate enough to go out to the Somme “I did a bit of research myself and I went on a couple of trips John previously travelled to the Suzanne Military Cemetery in Suzanne a village in the Department of the Somme where more than a hundred British war veterans are buried “I found a great-uncle of mine buried there,” John continued The words were from St John’s Gospel: “Greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.” There was an array of free entertainment during Monday’s event including Ulster Scots dancers and The Victory Rollers — a close harmony group Classical flautist Jane Watterson also played on the community stage wearing a Union flag dress and accompanied by her biggest fan originally from a town called Kilwinning in North Ayrshire because there’s always somebody who’s lost their life or whatever But I do think it’s really important to mark every milestone and not just the big ones,” she said “I was very privileged to take part in this wee thing today it’s family inclusive — the kids getting on the rides I think it’s really good that they can make it fun where they’re teaching children and adults who maybe don’t know the history everything through the wars and how commemorations are done properly.” Cameron Lilley (19) and Jenni Stanex (20) believe that as well as bringing a sense of cohesion and fun to the area it’s important that those attending recognise the reasons for the celebrations too “I think the day itself is just a good day for the community to bring us all together,” explained Cameron “VE in itself — Victory in Europe in 1945 — was just a very important day and I think the community itself recognises that and recognises the lives that were lost during the war “There are a lot of people around here who have connections to people who went and fought in the war [It’s great] just to remember that and recognise their sacrifice “I think it’s very important for young people today to recognise their own culture on both sides — embrace your culture and embrace your traditions “I think it’s extremely important for people to be educated on where they’re from and what their community is about.” A special service also took place at Belfast Cathedral on Sunday to mark the start of VE Day commemorations There will be many continued initiatives across NI throughout the week details of which can be found on individual council websites the replica Spitfire will be open for photographs and visiting Belfast City Hall will also be illuminated in red on both Wednesday and Thursday Receive today's headlines directly to your inbox every morning and evening Please check your inbox to verify your details 05 May 2025A roadworks blunder saw several vehicles driving down a closed road before turning round and going the wrong way down a one-way street to escape The mix-up, on Castle Street in the centre of Bristol caused a 'bit of brief chaos' yesterday afternoon (Sunday The roadworks sign pointing in the direction of a diversion was pointing the wrong way Drivers had mistakenly gone down Castle Street But the road was closed as a crane was doing a heavy lift to a nearby building site Cars had entered a closed road due to a roadworks blunder.(Image: Paul Gillis / Reach PLC)Article continues belowAt 3.30pm a worker fixed the diversion sign and had to help the vehicles drive away from Castle Street The vehicles had backed up and caused them to become stuck, before turning around and heading back towards the Old Market roundabout. Driving down the wrong way of the one-way street, the vehicles then had to wait at the roundabout, at what would have been the entrance for those driving into Broadmead. The worker, who had fixed the sign, had to step on to the roundabout, one of Bristol's busiest, and halt traffic in order to allow four vehicles to leave. A witness told BristolLive: "It caused a bit of brief chaos as all the cars backed up and had to turn around, then exit via the one way street. Probably the funniest thing I have seen." It is understood that the roadworks were there for a temporary spell as One.Network lists the road as being clear of any ongoing work. Police have attended a crash on a busy Inverness street Emergency services rushed to a crash on Kenneth Street at around 7pm on Monday The road closed between Telford Street roundabout and Tomnahurich Street in both directions It is unknown how many vehicles were involved in the collision Police have been contacted for more information Comments are currently disabled as they require cookies and it appears you've opted out of cookies on this site. To participate in the conversation, please adjust your cookie preferences in order to enable comments CORONATION Street is gearing up for a shock departure - as one popular star reveals they’re bowing out of Weatherfield with a bang Another Coronation Street reveals they are leaving the ITV soap - promising a jaw-dropping exit packed with drama The Sun exclusively revealed that TikTok star Farrel Hagerty will make a shock exit from the embattled soap just months after her debut Her final scenes will play out this summer after her time on the cobbles has come to an end Her on-screen husband Mick, played by Joe Layton, had also been given the chop and both characters will exit alongside each other in a storyline They were described as the neighbours from hell when their roles on the show were confirmed but their stint has turned out to be much shorter than fans were expecting Farrel told the press: "There's a lot more to come from these two, I'm afraid to say. I think there's a lot happening. It's all about to come to a head, it's all about to implode." She added: "Some of her behaviour really makes me wince sometimes because I think she can be quite hot-headed, irrational and she speaks before she thinks and she protects her own, which gets her into trouble. "She does have a massive heart for the people she loves and she has good qualities in that. But I think, to a lot of people it's loud, feisty and quite unreasonable at times." saying: “She will be leaving the soap alongside Joe - they were bought on as a couple and will leave as such “Fans were hoping they would be around for a while but there are no plans to keep them on longer than first intended.” A Coronation Street spokesperson confirmed their exits and said "Mick and Lou were brought into the show to cause chaos on the cobbles in the build up to a major storyline in the summer and they are already making their presence felt "Joe and Farrell were contracted for a specific length of time some characters come in for a long time and some like Mick and Lou are brought to pass through and leave a trail of destruction behind them "Both actors are still filming with the show and will be on screen until the summer." Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 or stream from 7am on ITVX ITV bosses are locked in a battle to save the cash-strapped soap This means that a number of stars have either been axed from or have abandoned the long-running serial drama After 25 years playing Eileen Grimshaw, former I'm A Celebrity campmate Sue Cleaver will quit the show The Sun on Sunday reported in January that she's already begun to film her exit scenes However the character will not be killed off in case Sue opts to make a return in the future Bosses decided to axe the teenage character after just 16 months after he first joined the show. Recent scenes saw Mason stabbed by his criminal brothers after his pal Dylan brought a knife in an attempt to defend him In November 2024, we revealed that Debbie Webster is set to be killed off after 40 years on the cobbles The character will die as part of a heartbreaking long-running dementia storyline The actress became the fifth star to leave Coronation Street in just one month. We revealed that she will bow out of the ITV soap later this year after four years on-screen Charlotte told sources that she's hungry to see what other opportunities await The actress has played Yasmeen Metcalfe on the cobbles for the past 11 years and we revealed in January that she finished filming her final scenes. This follows the departure of her on-screen partner Stu Carpenter The right back was seen being pushed away from a crowd and in front of a stationary bus with traffic on the road having come to a stop."},"children":[]}]},{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"The Championship player had been at the Empress pub at about 8pm with his older brother A row at the pub had reportedly continued on to the street with multiple people claimed to have been fighting."},"children":[]}]},{"name":"image","attributes":{"id":"08eaa17e-1b23-42f1-9175-64db7cdeb9b8","display":"primary","caption":"Coyle was part of the Hull team that earned a vital point at Portsmouth on Saturday which secured their place in the Championship next season","title":"Portsmouth v Hull City ole ole!” Coventry supporters"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"What a day for Coventry City ole ole!” Coventry supporters shouted out from"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"What a day for Coventry City ole ole!” Coventry supporters shouted out from every stand and just"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"What a day for Coventry City ole ole!” Coventry supporters shouted out from every stand and just about every seat"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"What a day for Coventry City ole ole!” Coventry supporters shouted out from every stand and just about every seat inside the"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"What a day for Coventry City Their 5-3 defeat away at West Bromwich Albion"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":125})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Luton Town were relegated for the second successive season Their 5-3 defeat away at West Bromwich Albion along with Hull"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":145})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Luton Town were relegated for the second successive season along with Hull City’s 1-1 draw at"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":160})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Luton Town were relegated for the second successive season along with Hull City’s 1-1 draw at Portsmouth meant"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":175})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Luton Town were relegated for the second successive season meant they dropped to"},"children":[]}]}]},"summary({\"maxCharCount\":225})":{"type":"json","json":[{"name":"paragraph","children":[{"name":"text","attributes":{"value":"Luton Town were relegated for the second successive season The TimesA still from the video appeared to show Coyle involved in an altercation in HullMonday May 05 2025 The TimesHull City are investigating footage of Lewie Coyle after the Championship club’s captain appeared to be involved in a bloody street brawl on Sunday The video shared on social media reportedly showed the shirtless 29-year-old being led away from the incident by his younger brother Rocco with traffic on the road having come to a stop The Championship player had been at the Empress pub at about 8pm with his older brother with multiple people claimed to have been fighting which secured their place in the Championship next seasonREX/JASON BROWN“It all happened yesterday in the Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount shares fall as studios reel from announcement Shares in US streamers and production companies fell on Monday, after Donald Trump said he would introduce 100% tariffs on films made abroad a move that couldsharply raise costs for Hollywood studios Trump’s announcement on his Truth Social platform revived worries about the US president’s trade policy and its impact on the world economy Netflix shares were down 1.7% by early afternoon on Wall Street, Amazon fell 1.5%, while Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount dropped by 1.1% and 1% respectively. The tech-heavy Nasdaq index lost 0.6%. The president said he had already ordered the commerce department and the US trade representative to begin instituting such a tariff, but his post did not say whether the levies would apply to films on streaming platforms as well as theatrical releases, nor did it detail whether tariffs would be based on production costs or box office revenue. Free daily newsletterOur US morning briefing breaks down the key stories of the day, telling you what’s happening and why it matters Read morePaolo Pescatore, a media analyst at PP Foresight, said: “It doesn’t feel like something that will happen in the short term as everyone will be grappling to understand the whole process. Inevitably costs will be passed on to consumers.” Most of this year’s Oscar best picture nominees were filmed outside the US, and a survey by ProdPro of studio executives, asking them about their preferred production locations for 2025 to 2026, showed that the top five choices were overseas. Read moreForcing a return to US soil would push up production budgets and disrupt a global production supply chain that includes shooting in Europe post-production in Canada and visual effects work in south-east Asia “The problem is that pretty much all the studios are moving tons of production overseas to reduce production costs,” said the Rosenblatt Securities analyst Barton Crockett “Raising the cost to produce movies could lead studios to make less content.” The UK media union Bectu urged the government to protect the country’s “vital” film sector warning tens of thousands of freelance jobs were on the line Retailers across the region continue to struggle to drive consumer spending on the high street with sales in-store increasing just 2.3 per cent compared to a negative base in April 2024 of -1.7 per cent Not only does this mean that in-store sales have barely recovered from last year’s poor performance but it also means that actual sales volumes shrank as this is once again below the rate of inflation as per BDO’s ‘High Street Sales Tracker’ The lifestyle and homewares sectors recorded particularly poor performances in-store In-store sales declined -1.2 per cent in the lifestyle sector with in-store sales in the homeware category growing just +0.9 per cent compared to a negative base of -1.5 per cent in the same month last year The warm weather during April provided a boost for fashion sales but stores still struggled to capitalise on this but this is against a base of -8.3 per cent in April 2024 meaning that the category has failed to recover from this poor performance “While April’s results may initially appear positive it was a month boosted by warm weather and seasonal events such as Easter and school holidays which typically help to drive consumer spending It’s clear that there is a cloud of uncertainty around economic issues such as the introduction of trade tariffs and cost increases which has had a material knock-on effect on consumer confidence and their willingness to spend,” said Sophie Michael “When household finances are under pressure consumers will understandably reduce their spending in discretionary categories like homewares and lifestyle and prioritise spending on experiences with family and friends While online retailers are still managing to record sales growth high street stores are really struggling to get shoppers through the door,” added Michael “The high street is at real risk of being hollowed out if retailers can’t find a way to entice shoppers back into stores Alongside the squeeze on the consumer purse there has been a shift in purchasing behaviour and there is increasing competition for discretionary spend Retailers need to look at how they invest in new tactics—for example embracing trends like the growth of pre-loved fashion and the circular economy – and operate with agility scaling the initiatives that work and learning from those that don’t,” she further added “While some trends may appear as a real threat to traditional retailers their pace of growth means that retailers need to explore adopting activities which complement such trends to enable them to successfully navigate this shift in consumer behaviour.” Search Companies editorial@fibre2fashion.com Record haul of ‘fake’ goods found after shop raided - but staff evade capture through secret underground exit Get our award-winning daily news email featuring exclusive stories I would like to be emailed about offers, event and updates from Evening Standard. Read our privacy notice A record haul of suspected fake goods was uncovered when a tourist complained about being charged £899 for two packets of sweets in an Oxford Street candy store Westminster council officials made the discovery when they raided the store with Metropolitan police officers Two shop assistants fled downstairs and avoided capture by using a secret exit - hidden behind a panel in the basement wall - to escape back up to street level But they ended up leading officers to discover a hidden room in which thousands of apparently counterfeit goods were discovered Removing the US-style candy stores many of which also sell poor-quality souvenirs from Oxford Street is one of the council’s priorities as it attempts to restore the fortunes of the UK’s most famous high street The raid – the latest in numerous efforts to target candy stores - happened on April 25 It was undertaken after the foreign tourist complained to the police about being overcharged over the weekend of April 12-13 When the tourist returned with police soon after being overcharged The council and police then planned a return raid – which yielded the biggest-ever haul of suspected fake goods from a store in Oxford Street with the items having a “street value” of about £80,000 Adam Hug, Labour leader of Westminster City Council, said: “We have known for a long time that US candy stores rip off customers but charging £900 for two packets of sweets is a new low even for the unscrupulous people who run these rackets “Our job is to protect people who visit the West End from being exploited and continuing raids and court appearances will ensure life is sour for the rogue US sweet shop trade the fall in the number of US candy and souvenir shops means the tide is going out on this tatty trade.” The Standard understands the shops were located at 399A and 399B Oxford Street with the customer being overcharged at 399A The number of mixed candy and souvenir stores on Oxford Street has fallen from 40 during the pandemic to 18 in March Trading standards officers have seized more than £1m in fake and unsafe goods over the past two years The council has successfully taken legal action candy and souvenir stores to recover unpaid business rates The latest raid involved trading standards officers and environmental health food safety officers First look inside Oxford Street's long awaited flagship Ikea store after £450m investment 'Senseless vanity project': Sadiq Khan faces backlash over Oxford Street pedestrianisation plans The items impounded in the latest raid included 2,892 American food products 226 heated tobacco pouches and 61 travel adaptors or power banks Cereals and sweets were seized due to a lack of labelling and the presence of additives banned in the UK including pirated versions of brands such as Marlboro and Benson & Hedges were not in the plain packaging required by UK laws Nor did they feature the graphic photo warnings of the diseases caused by smoking Top Gun cigarettes were also seized - a Chinese “copy” brand that has increasingly being found in the UK the Western silhouette has line-danced right off the ranch and onto the feet of the fashion set Read more: Met Gala 2025 Red Carpet we’re looking for inspiration on how to style cowboy boots beyond the rodeo here are the best ways to inject a little Western charm into your spring/summer wardrobe Valentina Frugiuele/Getty ImagesThe ideal solution for those lazy spring days when you’re not quite sure where you’ll end up Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesMetallic cowboy boots are an on-trend alternative to classic black or brown Although we’re not sure how Western purists would feel about these disco-inspired styles we say embrace all that glitters and step into summer with some shimmer Claudio Lavenia/Getty ImagesWhether opting for the cowboy-approved Canadian tuxedo or something more contemporary denim and cowboy boots are a timeless combo Think Britney and Justin if they had gone full Yellowstone instead of chasing pop stardom Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesLean into the simple life by pairing your cowboy boots with a breezy white dress (livestock optional). Cowboy boots are a perfect partner to the boho resurgence we’re seeing both on and off the runway this season. Claudio Lavenia/Getty ImagesDespite the warmer temperatures, there’s still a place for tailoring in your summer wardrobe. Paired with cowboy boots, an oversized blazer and shorts make for the ideal uniform, whether you’re heading to the boardroom or the bar. Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesMaking a statement in summer can be tricky when your wardrobe is limited to T-shirts and tank tops, but add a standout pair of statement cowboy boots, and uninspired outfits become a thing of the past. Worn with basics, this is a look that says, “I’m a star, baby.” CORONATION Street is to air an explosive flashback episode as Kit Green's mystery past is finally revealed Policeman Kit - played by Jacob Roberts - first arrived on the Cobbles in May last year as Bernie Winter's long-lost son The past 12 months have been filled with drama and plenty of intrigue, as Kit's past remains a mystery But now Coronation Street viewers are going to finally understand why the corrupt cop acts the way he does with a special flashback episode viewers will be transported back to 2007 to witness the teenage years of Kit and Lou and uncover the truth behind their intertwined past shedding light on Kit's motivations and the reason behind his complicated relationships Now, the reasons behind Kit's actions will become clear as viewers will see the events that bind them together.  For the special episode, three new actors will play the younger versions of Kit, Mick and Lou. Speaking on Kit’s special flashback episode, Jacob said: "I was grateful that we'd be delving into Kit's past to show why he is the way he is. "The arrival of Mick and Lou has definitely shaken Kit his job is to maintain peace in Weatherfield "Kit was very much like Mick and Lou growing up and they hold that over him so he's terrified of his past coming back to haunt him "It was also quite surreal meeting Brook the actor playing young Kit – definitely a funny experience to come face-to-face with a younger version of myself!" the Coronation Street team went to great lengths to authentically reflect 2007 said: “We had to do a lot of research into what would give away the era - In 2007 there were DVDs in shops and music The beloved British soap has been captivating audiences for decades The show follows the lives of the residents as they navigate love "We had to control every aspect of the location ensuring the right cars and houses were in the background to capture the perfect atmosphere for the episode."  He added: “It’s been a fantastic experience directing this episode The entire cast and crew were amazing and the whole process was exhilarating.”   and the special episode will air on Friday New outlet due to welcome shoppers on Thursday regarded as key to helping revive famous London thoroughfare The UK boss of Ikea has backed calls to pedestrianise Oxford Street as the world’s largest furniture retailer finally opens its delayed store in London’s prime shopping destination Sitting in one of the mini-room sets designed to show off Ikea’s range of furnishings at the new store, Peter Jekelby, the chief executive of Ikea’s UK business, said he thought a plan to pedestrianise Oxford Street, backed by London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan would be “good for the street” and “make it easier to move around” Khan said the Ikea store was “a huge vote of confidence in London in our economy and in our plans to rejuvenate Oxford Street” and that attracting new companies would help “create new jobs and increase footfall” He said the “bold proposals” to pedestrianise Oxford Street were subject to consultation that closes on 2 May “so I encourage everyone to have their say” The exterior of the new Ikea store on the former Topshop site Photograph: Graeme Robertson/The GuardianJekelby added that Ikea which will employ more than 100 people in its new London store was committed to opening more outlets in the UK with plans for a major new site in Brighton this summer and smaller outlets in Norwich “There are still places and space that we could be present in.” He said Ikea was “about affordability” and so could thrive even in a time of “thinner wallets” He called on the UK government to foster stability in the UK market and not to overwhelm retailers with additional costs – after an increase in employer national insurance charges Jekelby said that business rates needed a rethink so they were “more fit for purpose” and did not “penalise certain ways of shopping” – as currently those who operate stores face higher costs from the property-based tax than rivals who operate solely online The store will display about 6,000 products Photograph: Graeme Robertson/The GuardianThe bright and colourful – and largely underground – Oxford Street outlet includes a 130-seat Swedish deli a live events space and one-to-one design services for kitchens The space is also brightened by huge animated displays of woodland scenes buzzing bees and a wide variety of Londoners who talk about their home design choices – some of which are recreated in the store ranging from “Billy” bookcases to drinking glasses and about 3,500 of those items will be available to take away on the spot The store’s opening is regarded by some as key to hopes for a revival of Oxford Street, which has gradually been rejuvenated after a slump in visitor numbers during the Covid pandemic, after which a number of sites sat vacant while a plethora of cheap American candy shops moved in The seven-storey former Topshop building is also home to Nike Town which is taking more space in some of the upper floors an outlet for beauty specialist Space NK as well as office space Communities are set to come together across the region to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.comand on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 the day that Nazi Germany surrendered to the allied forces in 1945 being 80 years since the end of the war in Europe communities are being encouraged to mark the occasion with street parties and other events while councils have been putting together their own plans to mark the anniversary residents and organisations have taken advantage of fees being waived by Stafford Council to close roads for street parties marking Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan A VE Day themed children’s workshop is taking place at the Ancient High House in Stafford town centre with the venue also holding an exhibition on the lives of local men telling their stories through medals and historical artefacts Izaak Walton Cottage will be holding a traditional afternoon tea set against the backdrop of wartime music on Sunday and Stafford Castle will be lit up red Victoria Park will be the venue for an afternoon of live music June 21 at St Mary’s Church in the centre of the county town to mark VE and VJ Days and pay tribute to those who gave their lives and made sacrifices in World War 2 said: “We know how much our residents respect and appreciate the sacrifices made to protect the freedoms that we enjoy today “It is great to see communities paying their own tributes - and I’m pleased we were able to help remove some of the costs and administration to enable commemorations with family friends and neighbours to go ahead safely.” the 80th anniversary of VE Day is set to be celebrated with a civic service a Fabulous 40s event and street parties to honour the Second World War generation Sandwell Council has organised events to remember the end of the Second World War in Europe and pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of all those who served The main civic event will take place on VE Day 80 next Thursday  outside Sandwell Council House in Oldbury Civic Square Starting with a live brass band from 10.30am the event will then have a service from 11am to 12pm led by Rev The event is free to attend and everyone is invited with a temporary road closure in place in Freeth Street for this event the annual Fabulous 40s event at Haden Hill House and Park in Cradley Heath will have a special VE Day 80 theme on Bank Holiday Monday The Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Syeda Khatun MBE said: “Five years ago we marked VE Day 75 from our homes during the first lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic we have an opportunity to meet again in our streets and communities “We will reflect on the sacrifices made by the Second World War generation to honour them for what they achieved and to celebrate their legacy “We will pay tribute to all those who gave so much to liberate Europe as well as Japan later in 1945 This includes everyone who fought overseas including people from around the Commonwealth everyone who served their country on the home front and all those who sadly never came home “We also wish everyone holding street parties and street meets a wonderful time celebrating with their families Lichfield City Council is hosting a VE Day event on Market Square on May 8 traditional fish and chips and ice cream on offer and people also invited to bring their own picnics and enjoy the entertainment from 1pm to 4pm The day will also feature a craft fayre on Minster Pool Walk from 10am to 4pm, while a photo exhibition with images from the period will be on display at the same time in Lichfield Guildhall There will also be information about the Lichfield Spitfire aircraft which was funded through subscriptions from the city’s residents It served during the Second World War before being shot down over Calais on February 3 1943 there will be a special weekend of celebrations at the National Memorial Arboretum taking inspiration from the street parties of 1945 with other activities include local services a pop-up event at the Staffordshire History Centre and activities in local libraries May 10 can see a flypast of Lancaster B1 PA474 part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is one of the only two remaining airworthy Lancaster Bombers out of the 7,377 that were built and the flypast is due around 1.30pm Libraries and Arts Manager at Staffordshire Council said: “It’s great that our libraries are joining in the celebrations with a whole host of family activities and entertainment Christopher LeebodyFri 2 May 2025 at 14:07A new street food concept has officially launched in Belfast and will be of interest to chip fans across the city with 100 lucky customers also getting the chance to win free food next week Poke Club officially opened at The Watson on Library street on Thursday The eatery specialises in serving up chip cones loaded fries & mash bowls throughout the venue It will also offer cones of chips at a new grab and go friendly hatch – for when you are feeling peckish while out and about The concept is a collaboration with MasterChef finalist Jonny Stevenson from Urban Scullery The cones will come with speciality sauces and bowls of golden frites or creamy mash topped with rich sauces like peppercorn Sunday gravy or nacho cheese or loaded toppings such as pulled beef Sundays will also see the launch of their take on a ‘Sunday Roast’ half mash and half chips and generous pours of roasting gravy Its home – The Watson – is one of Belfast’s newest bar development after the £3.5m investment in the old Frames Complex We need your consent to load this Social Media content We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity The name pays homage to the building’s origins in the late 19th century as the headquarters of Robert Watson & Co cabinet makers and upholsterers Frames became a beloved haunt of journalists working at the nearby former headquarters of the Belfast Telegraph and Irish News The The wider Watson development arrived last December “We are thrilled to launch Poke Club as the first food concept at The Watson grab a poke and experience something new from our convenient hatch or inside our venue This Bank Holiday Monday 5th May from 12noon the first 100 customers will receive a free cone at the hatch on a first come Just head to the new hatch at The Watson on Library Street and get ready to meet your new favourite frites A MAN has been arrested after a residential street was locked down by armed cops Emergency crews were scrambled to Torridon Park in Forres Officers raced to the scene after receiving a call relating to a concern for a man within a property Cops cordoned off the area and around five police motors and an ambulance were spotted on Grant Drive He is due to appear in the dock at Elgin Sheriff Court tomorrow A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 8.05pm on Sunday, 4 May, 2025, officers were called to a concern for a man within a property in Torridon Park, Forres. “Officers attended and a 34-year-old man was later arrested in connection. "He is due to appear at Elgin Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 6 May, 2025. Elsewhere in the northeast, police believe a Welsh teenager missing for a week may have travelled to Aberdeen The 15-year-old, known only as Brandon, disappeared from Blaenau Ffestiniog in northwest Wales on April 29 Welsh officers believe he may have used public transport to travel to Aberdeen on the same day he vanished Labour politicians warn former PM had boosted Tory and Reform climate sceptics on the eve of local elections Tony Blair has been forced by Downing Street to row back from his criticism of the government’s net zero strategy after furious Labour politicians warned he had given a boost to Tory and Reform sceptics on the eve of the local elections Climate experts also accused the former prime minister of granting political cover to fossil fuel interests and weakening momentum behind the UK’s legally binding target to reach net zero emissions by 2050 Senior No 10 officials called the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change [TBI] after he claimed the plans were “doomed to fail” The Guardian understands that Keir Starmer has not spoken to his Labour predecessor directly but furious government insiders said that Blair had undermined Starmer on a key issue One Downing Street insider said: “Tony fucked up.” Another said: “He has completely lost his touch.” A third government source questioned whether the decision to release the report on the eve of the elections was entirely accidental “It’s not the first time he’s written bombastic forewords suggesting we should slow down on net zero Another said they were particularly aggrieved that the words appeared a critique of Starmer himself “It looks like he is attacking Keir who has only just said climate action was in the DNA of the government.” Just moments before Starmer took prime minister’s questions in the Commons on Wednesday TBI issued a fresh statement to clarify that it believed the government’s net zero policy was “the right one” Downing Street also defended the energy secretary who has been the target of attacks by net zero sceptics including within the party winning the global race for the jobs for the future The PM absolutely backs him,” Starmer’s spokesperson said But Labour insiders warned the damage had already been done saying she felt “vindicated” by the comments and Nigel Farage boasting on X that Reform UK was “winning the argument” on net zero There are also concerns Labour could lose votes to the Greens with their co-leader Carla Denyer urging Starmer to distance himself from Blair’s “dodgy dossier” on net zero “The future is green; Labour must not allow yesterday’s man to drag us back into the dark ages,” she added Angry Labour MPs raised questions about the influence that TBI has within the party As well as the organisation regularly briefing No 10 officials it has also advised the governments of Saudi Arabia One MP said: “We are having PLP briefings organised from people who are essentially fossil fuel lobbyists If anyone speaks admirably about these libertarian tech bros who think that is what will save us A second added: “The day before polling day this just gives Reform talking points – Tony should know better unless it’s a desperate search to continue to be interesting and is handing talking points to the Tories and Reform on a silver platter TBI might want to remember it’s not running the country.” Writing the foreword for a report from TBI, Blair had called for the government to change course on climate suggesting a strategy that limits fossil fuels in the short term or encourages people to limit consumption is “doomed to fail” The former prime minister said voters were being “asked to make financial sacrifices and changes in lifestyle” that would have “minimal” effect on global emissions He said the current climate debate was “riven with irrationality” and suggested net zero was losing public support Climate experts accused him of playing into the hands of a rightwing narrative to delay climate action. Nicholas Stern, the author of the influential Stern review of the economics of climate change commissioned by Blair when he was in power said the TBI report was “muddled and misleading” “The UK’s leadership on climate change, particularly the elimination of coal from its power sector, is providing an influential example to other countries. So, too, its climate change legislation and its Climate Change Committee If the UK wobbles on its route to net zero “And the report downplays the science in its absence of a sense of urgency and the lack of appreciation of the need for the world to achieve net zero as soon as possible in order to manage the growth in climate change impacts that are already hurting households and businesses across the world and in the UK Lady Brown, of the independent Climate Change Committee, said Blair’s intervention risked sending the wrong message at a crucial moment “My concern is that people might take away a message from that report that we should do adaptation instead of mitigation and that is absolutely the wrong message,” she told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme CORONATION Street fans were left doing a double take after spotting a massive blunder involving Carla Connor in a recently unearthed clip Carla Connor (played by Alison King) was caught in a soap slip-up that’s left eagle-eyed viewers scratching their heads An unearthed clip from an old episode of the ITV soap saw Carla talking to her bestie Michelle Connor (Kym Marsh) in the café while enjoying a cuppa In the scene, Carla got out her mobile phone to text her brother Aidan Connor (Shayne Ward) the way she text on her phone had fans in stitches The actress slammed her thumbs on the screen so rapidly that it did not resemble texting or forming any sort of message Another added: "Ha that’s how my wee ones at work (under 5yrs) think texting looks like!" A third penned: "This texting Ali pls" Meanwhile, during a more recent episode of Coronation Street, it seemed that actress Sally Carmen-Duttine appeared to forget she was in character as Abi Webster. The embarrassing error appeared to slip through the net with bosses not catching the pesky mishap before it went to broadcast Abi propped up the bar at the Rovers and collected some drinks whilst at Christina Boyd's Bingo night Abi accidentally called Jenny Bradley by the wrong name Abi could be heard saying: "Cheers Sal." Rather than calling her Jenny, she appeared to confuse reality and fiction and called Jenny actress Sally Ann Matthews by her real name Soaps are renowned for their sweet and scandalous romances – but it's not just in scripted storylines where love is blossoming A number of our favourite small-screen actors have fallen for co-stars and soapland rivals when the cameras have stopped rolling The blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment appeared to slip by soap chiefs who kept the blunder in One fan who spotted the moment even suggested that actress Sally Ann smirked when she realised she'd been addressed by her own name The viewer wrote on X: "That's too funny And it looks like Sally (Jenny) genuinely smiled like she caught it."