MAINSTREAM GB News

WATCH: Victoria Atkins thanks GB News for 'exceptional' coverage of 'farmers plight'

Shadow Environment Secretary Victoria Atkins expressed gratitude to GB News for its comprehensive coverage of the challenges faced by farmers. She acknowledged the channel's role in highlighting the difficulties within the agricultural sector, emphasizing the importance of media attention in bringing these issues to public awareness. Atkins’ comments came amid ongoing debates about agricultural policies and the impact on farmers’ livelihoods. The coverage by GB News was described as “exceptional,” suggesting it provided detailed reporting that resonated with stakeholders in the farming community. This recognition underscores the significance of media in shaping public discourse around rural and environmental matters. By spotlighting farmers’ struggles, the coverage contributes to a broader understanding of the sector’s needs and pressures. The acknowledgment from a prominent political figure highlights the intersection of media, politics, and agriculture, reflecting the ongoing efforts to address and support the farming industry in the UK.

7 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM GB News

Three protesters jailed over violent disorder outside Epping asylum hotel

Three men—Martin Peagram, Dean Smith, and Stuart Williams—have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 22 to 28 months for their involvement in violent disorder outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex. The hotel was housing asylum seekers and had become the focus of protests following sexual assault incidents involving an asylum seeker, Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who was jailed for 12 months. The disorder occurred during the third protest on July 17, which saw around 500 demonstrators and 50 counter-protesters. Earlier protests on July 12 and 13 were relatively peaceful. During the July 17 event, police faced sustained attacks for over four hours, including being pushed, punched, and having missiles thrown at them. Police vehicles were also damaged. The violence led to the early closure of nearby businesses and required support from neighboring police forces, including the Metropolitan Police, to maintain order. This case marks the first sentencing for violent disorder linked to protests outside the Bell Hotel.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Herald Scotland

John Swinney 'worried' about Scots on Gaza flotilla as he calls for immediate return

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney expressed deep concern for the wellbeing of four Scots detained by Israeli authorities aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying food and medical supplies to Gaza. The detainees—Jim Hickey, Margaret Pacetta, Yvonne Ridley, and Sid Khan—are among approximately 450 activists held following the flotilla’s interception. Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was also detained. Allegations of mistreatment by Israeli guards have been denied by Israel, which stated it offered voluntary deportation to the activists, with some choosing to remain for legal processing. Swinney called for urgent consular access and the immediate return of the detained Scots, emphasizing ongoing communication with the UK Foreign Commonwealth Development Office, which is engaging with the Israeli government. He highlighted the importance of ensuring detainees’ wellbeing amid a complex diplomatic situation. Separately, Swinney faced boos at a vigil marking the second anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel after advocating for Palestinian state recognition as part of a peace process.

7 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM BBC UK News

Footage appears to show Jihad Al-Shamie before attack

New footage has emerged showing Jihad Al-Shamie minutes before he carried out a terror attack at a synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester. Al-Shamie drove a car into worshippers on Yom Kippur, killing two Jewish men, Melvin Cravitz, 66, and Adrian Daulby, 53. Three others remain hospitalized. Witnesses reported seeing Al-Shamie acting suspiciously outside the synagogue before being confronted and told to leave. He then returned in a black Kia Picanto, matching the vehicle used in the attack. Greater Manchester Police described the incident as a terror attack. Al-Shamie, a Syrian-born British citizen since 2006, was on police bail for rape at the time. Counter-terrorism officers have detained four people on suspicion of terror offenses, with two others released without charge. Authorities continue investigations to understand the full circumstances. Daulby and Cravitz were praised for their bravery in preventing the attacker from entering the synagogue, allowing worshippers to seek shelter inside.

7 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Independent UK

Council apologises for leaving over 1,100 welfare and police emails unread

Haringey Council has been found to have left over 1,100 welfare and police emails unread, exposing serious failures in its social care system. The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGO) investigation focused on a vulnerable man at risk of homelessness who did not receive timely help despite repeated alerts from emergency services and a friend. The man later suffered a seizure and a life-changing injury after the council failed to act. The council, already under scrutiny for its role in the 2007 Baby P case, admitted mistakes and apologised. It has agreed to pay compensation to the man and his friend and pledged to implement an action plan to improve safeguarding responses, including staff training. Opposition councillors condemned the council’s negligence, stating that apologies are insufficient. The case highlights ongoing concerns about safeguarding failures in the borough and the urgent need for lasting reforms to protect vulnerable residents.

7 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Scotsman

New tech tackles multi-billion problem of fake whisky and spirits

Global luxury drinks experts are developing a new platform aimed at combating the widespread issue of counterfeit whisky and spirits, a problem valued in the multi-billion-dollar range. The technology focuses on providing complete traceability, transparency, and compliance throughout the entire product life cycle of Scotch whisky and other spirits. By leveraging this platform, producers, distributors, and consumers will be able to verify the authenticity of products, ensuring that genuine goods reach the market and reducing the circulation of fake or tampered bottles. This initiative addresses significant economic losses and reputational damage faced by the industry due to counterfeit products. The development of this technology marks an important step in protecting the integrity of premium spirits, safeguarding consumer trust, and supporting regulatory compliance. It highlights the growing role of digital solutions in enhancing supply chain security and combating fraud in luxury goods sectors.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Independent UK

Nottingham attack victim Grace O’Malley-Kumar posthumously awarded bravery medal

Grace O’Malley-Kumar, a 19-year-old medical student, will be posthumously awarded the George Medal for her bravery during the Nottingham attacks. While walking home with her friend Barnaby Webber, both were attacked by Calocane, who stabbed Barnaby. Grace intervened, pushing the assailant away before being brutally assaulted herself. Her courageous actions ultimately cost her life. The George Medal, awarded for civilian gallantry, recognizes Grace’s exceptional courage in the face of extreme danger. The medal will be presented to her family. A campaign had sought the higher George Cross for Grace, supported by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Calocane, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, also fatally stabbed Ian Coates, 65, and was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after pleading guilty to manslaughter. Political leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, have praised Grace’s selflessness and bravery, highlighting her sacrifice as an example of true courage. Other recipients of gallantry awards were also honored for intervening in violent attacks.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM The Scotsman

The Scottish artist whose whale-inspired work is to be displayed in UK Government buildings around the world

Scottish artist Katie Paterson’s whale-inspired artwork has been selected for display in UK Government buildings globally. Paterson, known for integrating natural elements into her art, created pieces that explore the life and sounds of whales, highlighting environmental and ecological themes. The selection is part of the UK Government Art Collection, which aims to showcase contemporary British art in official buildings worldwide. Paterson’s work was chosen for its innovative approach and relevance to global conversations about nature and conservation. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy and raising awareness of environmental issues through art. Paterson’s whale-themed pieces will be exhibited in various international locations, enhancing the visibility of Scottish contemporary art on a global stage. The project underscores the importance of art in fostering international dialogue and emphasizes the role of artists in addressing pressing ecological concerns. Paterson’s work contributes to this by connecting audiences with the natural world through creative expression.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Daily Mail News

Gambler who stole £800,000 from friends to fund 'lavish lifestyle' of cars, watches, designer clothes and holidays is jailed

Kenny Sanders, 38, from Canterbury, Kent, was sentenced to six years in prison after defrauding over 30 friends, family members, and colleagues out of more than £800,000. Posing as a successful businessman, Sanders convinced victims to invest in a fake IT company, Green Source IT Ltd, promising returns between 3% and 20% every 40 to 60 days. Instead, he used the money to fuel a severe gambling addiction, spending millions on horse racing, greyhound racing, and football betting. Sanders maintained a lavish lifestyle, purchasing luxury cars, designer clothes, watches, and taking first-class holidays, while many victims faced financial ruin, losing homes and businesses. One woman lost three-quarters of her life savings. The fraud spanned six years, from 2012 to 2018, with Sanders often gambling for extended periods, sometimes from early morning until after midnight. The case, described by Detective Constable Mark Huttley as the largest fraud of his career, highlights the devastating impact of Sanders’ deception on his victims’ lives.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Daily Mail News

Men aren't allowed to be macho now but we don't want stallions to become whimpering drips: How Jilly Cooper mourned the death of masculinity

Novelist Jilly Cooper, known for her Rutshire Chronicles set in an aristocratic equestrian world, has shifted her focus to football and the culture surrounding it in her latest work, *Tackle!*. Now in her ninth decade, Cooper explores the lives of WAGs and the high-stakes world of multi-million-pound football transfers, blending her trademark humor and racy storytelling. Her iconic character, Rupert Campbell-Black, remains central, purchasing a struggling local football club to reconnect with his family’s new football star son-in-law. To authentically portray this new setting, Cooper immersed herself in football culture, becoming a dedicated fan and regularly watching *Soccer Saturday*. Cooper’s home in the Cotswolds reflects her lifelong love of animals and sport, with memorabilia including a signed England football shirt from Gareth Southgate. Her engagement with football highlights a broader cultural commentary on masculinity and changing social norms, marking a notable evolution in her literary themes.

8 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Mirror UK News

15-min fitness session boosts mental health more than pricey retreats, trial shows

A recent trial involving participants from the UK, US, and Australia found that just 15 minutes of daily exercise significantly improved mental health, outperforming the benefits of expensive wellness retreats. Participants, who had previously attended wellness holidays, reported a 21% increase in mental wellbeing after incorporating brief daily movement breaks for one week. The study revealed that 71% of participants found daily exercise more effective at reducing stress, 65% experienced mood boosts, and 73% noted longer-lasting mental health benefits compared to their retreat experiences. Despite traveling an average of over 1,500 km for wellness holidays, 63% of UK respondents said their expectations were unmet, and 72% reported that retreat benefits faded quickly. Commissioned by sportswear brand ASICS, the trial supports a campaign featuring wellness advocate Natasha Rothwell, promoting accessible, everyday movement as a practical and affordable path to improved mental health. Experts emphasize that small, consistent activity can have a profound impact on wellbeing.

9 hours ago

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MAINSTREAM Mirror UK News

Brit lottery winners joining ultra-exclusive club after scooping millions

A growing network of UK National Lottery winners has formed an exclusive support club to help new millionaires navigate the challenges that come with sudden wealth. This community offers guidance on managing life changes, financial decisions, and personal relationships after hitting the jackpot. Members communicate through messaging, attend charity events, and participate in voluntary projects and concerts, sharing experiences only fellow winners can truly understand. Among the members is Elaine Thompson, who won £2.7 million in 1995 with her husband Derek. They used their winnings to invest in businesses while maintaining a strong work ethic. Elaine highlights how it takes time for winners to fully grasp their new financial reality and the overwhelming attention that follows a big win. With around 7,400 lottery millionaires in the UK, most choose to remain private. The club helps them avoid common pitfalls and supports them in adjusting to life after winning, emphasizing the importance of continued purpose and prudent financial planning.

9 hours ago

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