June 18, 2025

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Sherrock plans to take break from darts next year

Sherrock plans to take break from darts next year

Fallon Sherrock, a well-known darts player, has announced that she will take a break from the sport in 2026 due to health issues. Sherrock has experienced kidney problems since 2014, which have affected her ability to play, but she plans to keep competing for now.

Key Facts:

  • Fallon Sherrock plans to pause her darts career in 2026 for health reasons.
  • She has dealt with kidney problems since 2014 after her son was born.
  • Sherrock was the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship in 2019.
  • She mentioned her energy levels have been low, affecting her performance.
  • Sherrock wants to participate in events this year, even if not at full strength.
  • She has reduced her playing commitments due to health issues and lack of stamina.
  • Despite challenges, she is determined to continue playing and hopes to return to full form in a few years.

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Meghan shares new photos of Lilibet to mark fourth birthday

Meghan shares new photos of Lilibet to mark fourth birthday

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, shared new photos of her daughter, Princess Lilibet, to celebrate her fourth birthday. The photos included one with Meghan holding Lilibet as a newborn and another recent image showing them on a boat.

Key Facts:

  • Meghan shared photos of Princess Lilibet for her fourth birthday.
  • One photo is from Lilibet's newborn stage; the other shows them on a boat.
  • Meghan expressed her joy in an Instagram post celebrating Lilibet's birthday.
  • Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021, after her parents moved to the US.
  • Lilibet became a princess when her grandfather became the king.
  • Meghan and Prince Harry have another child, Prince Archie, who is six.
  • Meghan discussed the possibility of future business ventures with Lilibet.
  • Lilibet's name is a family nickname that originated with Queen Elizabeth II.

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Man City agree deal to sign AC Milan's Reijnders

Man City agree deal to sign AC Milan's Reijnders

Manchester City has reached an agreement with AC Milan to sign Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders for 55 million euros (around £46.3 million). Reijnders, who is 26 years old, will sign a five-year contract with Manchester City, pending a medical examination. The transfer aims to strengthen City's midfield ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup.

Key Facts:

  • Manchester City agreed to a €55 million deal with AC Milan for Tijjani Reijnders.
  • Reijnders will have a five-year contract at Manchester City.
  • The deal includes extra payments if certain conditions are fulfilled.
  • The signing is in response to injuries to players like Mateo Kovacic and possibly Kevin de Bruyne not participating in the Club World Cup.
  • Reijnders was named Serie A's midfielder of the season while playing for AC Milan.
  • Last season, Reijnders scored 15 goals in 54 games for Milan.
  • He is considered a versatile midfielder who can play both deep and advanced positions.
  • Reijnders started his professional career with PEC Zwolle and also played for AZ Alkmaar.

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Chancellor to announce £15bn for transport projects outside London

Chancellor to announce £15bn for transport projects outside London

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will announce a £15 billion investment in England’s transport infrastructure. The funds will go to tram, train, and bus projects in the Midlands, the North, and the West Country, with specific allocations for regions like Greater Manchester and the West Midlands to expand and improve their transport networks.

Key Facts:

  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to allocate £15 billion for transport projects in England.
  • The money is for improvements to trams, trains, and buses in areas like the Midlands, North, and West Country.
  • Greater Manchester will receive £2.5 billion to expand its tram network.
  • The West Midlands is set to get £2.4 billion for extending tram services from Birmingham.
  • £2.1 billion will be used to start the West Yorkshire Mass Transit programme.
  • Additional investments include £1.5 billion for South Yorkshire and £1.6 billion for Liverpool city region.
  • The East Midlands will receive £2 billion to enhance road, rail, and bus connections between Derby and Nottingham.
  • Changes in funding allocation rules aim to distribute growth more evenly across regions.

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'A lot of big decisions for Sarina'

'A lot of big decisions for Sarina'

England's women's soccer team lost to Spain 2-1 and did not make it to the semi-finals of the Women's Nations League. Coach Sarina Wiegman will announce the squad for Euro 2025 on Thursday, as the team prepares to defend its title in Switzerland next month.

Key Facts:

  • England lost 2-1 to Spain in the Women's Nations League.
  • This loss meant they did not reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
  • England's team coach is Sarina Wiegman.
  • Sarina Wiegman will name the squad for Euro 2025 on Thursday.
  • Euro 2025 will take place in Switzerland.
  • England will try to defend their title in the upcoming Euro 2025 tournament.

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'I need a hug' - singer Jessie J reveals early breast cancer diagnosis

'I need a hug' - singer Jessie J reveals early breast cancer diagnosis

Singer Jessie J announced she has been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. She plans to have surgery after performing at a music event in London. Jessie J shared her diagnosis on social media to help process the news and connect with others experiencing similar challenges.

Key Facts:

  • Jessie J, a well-known singer, shared that she has early breast cancer.
  • She revealed her diagnosis on Instagram.
  • The singer will have surgery after her upcoming performance at a London music festival.
  • She hopes sharing her story will help her manage the diagnosis and support others.
  • Jessie J received supportive messages from fellow celebrities like Rita Ora and Gaby Roslin.
  • Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK.
  • Jessie J has faced other health challenges, including a heart condition, stroke, and Meniere's disease.
  • She also has ADHD and OCD and recently turned down a Broadway role to focus on her family.

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Why time is right for resilient 'Mini Messi' Kirby to end England career

Why time is right for resilient 'Mini Messi' Kirby to end England career

Fran Kirby announced her retirement from England's international football team after an 11-year career with 77 national team appearances. She faced various challenges, including health issues, but made significant contributions to the team's success, including winning the Euro 2022. Manager Sarina Wiegman had informed Kirby she would not be part of the lineup for upcoming matches, which influenced her decision.

Key Facts:

  • Fran Kirby played for England's national team for 11 years and participated in 77 matches.
  • She won a European Championship medal with the team in 2022.
  • Kirby announced her retirement shortly after England's loss to Spain in a recent match.
  • Health problems, including knee injuries and pericarditis (a heart-related condition), affected her career.
  • Kirby missed the 2023 World Cup due to a knee injury requiring surgery.
  • She had "honest conversations" with her manager, Sarina Wiegman, about her future in the team.
  • Manager Wiegman commended Kirby for her talent and contributions to the team.
  • Kirby was known for her creative playing style and was nicknamed "mini Messi."

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An 'exciting summer' of women's sport lies ahead

An 'exciting summer' of women's sport lies ahead

Three professional athletes are preparing for major international tournaments this summer. Footballer Niamh Charles, rugby player Ellie Kildunne, and cricketer Sarah Glenn are representing England in their sports' respective competitions. The BBC will feature these events heavily as part of its women's sports coverage.

Key Facts:

  • Niamh Charles wants to help England's football team defend their Women's Euros title in Switzerland in July.
  • Ellie Kildunne aims to win the Women's Rugby World Cup in England in September.
  • Sarah Glenn targets success at the Cricket World Cup in India, also in September.
  • Women's sports are receiving significant focus from the BBC this summer.
  • Charles, Kildunne, and Glenn express excitement and challenges ahead for their teams.
  • Each athlete discusses how their sports are growing and developing at a professional level.
  • The athletes talk about their preparation and the expectations they face in their tournaments.

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'I was Birmingham's most prolific shoplifter - now I've turned my life around'

'I was Birmingham's most prolific shoplifter - now I've turned my life around'

Keeley Knowles used to be known for shoplifting in Birmingham to support her heroin addiction and has been to jail 28 times. With help from the West Midlands Police's Offending to Recovery programme, she is now drug-free and helps others struggling with addiction.

Key Facts:

  • Keeley Knowles was heavily involved in shoplifting to fund her heroin use.
  • She went to jail 28 times due to her actions.
  • Knowles began using heroin at 13 years old.
  • The Offending to Recovery programme helps people with drug addictions to reduce crime.
  • The programme was started in Birmingham in 2018 and is expanding to other areas like Coventry and Wolverhampton.
  • It is funded by local authorities, businesses, and the West Midlands police and crime commissioner.
  • Knowles now works with the programme and shares her experiences to help others.
  • The programme is already positively impacting businesses and communities.

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'Review into my daughter's killing has been hell on earth'

'Review into my daughter's killing has been hell on earth'

BBC research shows that only 1% of domestic abuse-related death reviews in England and Wales are completed within the recommended six months. Families like Pauline Jones, whose daughter Bethany was killed, find the review process to be painfully slow, taking years rather than months, which they believe contributes to ongoing risk.

Key Facts:

  • Domestic abuse-related death reviews are meant to help prevent further deaths by analyzing how professionals handled cases before incidents happen.
  • BBC analysis found that 99% of these reviews take longer than the recommended six months, often lasting years.
  • Only 7 out of 495 reviews were finished in the recommended timeframe.
  • Pauline Jones, whose daughter was killed by her former partner, experienced a review process that took nearly three years to complete.
  • West Yorkshire Police admitted to failures in handling Bethany’s reports about her killer before her death.
  • In Yorkshire and Humber, 97% of reviews were not completed within the six-month guideline.
  • Delays in reviews are attributed to complex police investigations, legal processes, and the need to involve family members and other parties.

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Police launch probe into patient deaths at NHS hospital after heart operations

Police launch probe into patient deaths at NHS hospital after heart operations

Police are investigating the deaths of patients after heart procedures at an NHS hospital. Several reports suggest these deaths may have been due to avoidable mistakes during the surgeries, and some families were unaware of the issues. The hospital has made improvements, but the investigation is still early, with no arrests made.

Key Facts:

  • Police are investigating patient deaths after heart operations at Castle Hill Hospital.
  • Documents suggest some deaths involved avoidable mistakes during surgeries.
  • A patient's operation took much longer than expected and was described as a "disaster," yet this was not noted on her death certificate.
  • The hospital's TAVI procedure death rate was three times the UK average at the time.
  • Staff concerns led to multiple reviews, none of which were initially shared with the public.
  • Reviews and reports highlighted safety and transparency issues with the TAVI service.
  • The TAVI procedure replaces a heart valve using a catheter, often taking one to two hours and typically involves older patients.
  • Dorothy Readhead, an 87-year-old patient, died after a TAVI operation where the medical team made an error in the procedure.

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RAF chief Sir Richard Knighton to lead armed forces

RAF chief Sir Richard Knighton to lead armed forces

Sir Richard Knighton is expected to become the UK's top military officer, taking over from Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. The role involves leading major changes to improve the UK's military strength as part of a plan to increase defense spending.

Key Facts:

  • Sir Richard Knighton is reportedly chosen to become the Chief of the Defence Staff, the UK's highest military position.
  • He will replace Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, who has held the position since November 2021.
  • Sir Richard has been the head of the Royal Air Force since June 2023.
  • The UK government plans to increase its defense budget from 2.3% to 2.5% of national income by 2027 and aims for 3% by 2034.
  • The government announced a new defense strategy to prepare for potential threats from countries like Russia and China.
  • Sir Richard joined the Royal Air Force in 1989 and was deputy chief of the defense staff from 2019 to 2022.
  • The Ministry of Defence has not yet officially confirmed Sir Richard's appointment.

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PM warned more funding needed to halve crime against women

PM warned more funding needed to halve crime against women

Two senior government officials warned the Prime Minister that without more money, the government will not achieve its goal of reducing violence against women and girls by half. This warning comes before a spending review that is likely to include cuts. Police chiefs have also expressed concerns that reduced budgets could affect which crimes they can investigate.

Key Facts:

  • Two government watchdogs have warned that cutting funds could harm efforts to reduce violence against women and girls.
  • The government aims to cut violence against women and girls by 50%.
  • The warning is linked to an upcoming spending review which may include budget cuts.
  • The Home Office, managing police and victim services, is still negotiating their budget with the Treasury.
  • Police chiefs say budget cuts could force them to focus less on some crimes.
  • Police have already seen reduced numbers due to previous austerity measures, leading to increased violence rates.
  • There are concerns that without proper funding, police and the National Crime Agency may shrink further.
  • Police chiefs informed that early release of prisoners poses a safety risk without extra funding.

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Man killed in racist attack told police he saw similar assault weeks before death

Man killed in racist attack told police he saw similar assault weeks before death

Police were aware of a series of racist incidents involving local youths in Leicestershire before Bhim Kohli, an elderly man, was attacked and subsequently died. Mr. Kohli had previously reported witnessing a racially motivated attack on another man, who was hit with stones and verbally abused. Two youths were later convicted of manslaughter for Mr. Kohli's death.

Key Facts:

  • Bhim Kohli reported a racially motivated assault on a man two weeks before he was attacked.
  • Mr. Kohli was attacked by a 14-year-old boy while a 12-year-old girl filmed it; he died the next day.
  • Both youths involved in his attack were convicted of manslaughter.
  • An earlier victim of racist abuse in the area described being attacked with rocks and verbally insulted.
  • Police were informed about previous incidents of anti-social behavior and racism in the area.
  • A local resident, Linda Haigh, also raised concerns about racial problems but felt police did not respond effectively.
  • Mr. Kohli had previously been targeted by youths throwing stones and using racial slurs in July.
  • Police mentioned they were investigating reports of anti-social behavior in the park area before Mr. Kohli's death.

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The Papers: 'Good weather' small boat surge and 'tax bombshells'

The Papers: 'Good weather' small boat surge and 'tax bombshells'

Several newspapers report on small boat crossings in the English Channel, with some connecting it to recent weather and others noting government efforts to deter these crossings. Other key stories include the potential renationalization of Thames Water, the UK stockpiling medical supplies for nuclear scenarios, and the ongoing search for Madeleine McCann. Various headlines also mention financial concerns and political spending plans in the UK.

Key Facts:

  • Some newspapers report on increased small boat crossings in the English Channel, potentially due to good weather.
  • The UK government found that its Rwanda plan appears to have deterred some migrants, according to a recent report.
  • Thames Water may become government-owned again after a US firm decided not to invest £4 billion.
  • The UK plans to store military medical supplies to prepare for possible nuclear attacks.
  • Police in Portugal renewed their search for Madeleine McCann, who disappeared almost 20 years ago.
  • Large accounting firms are trying to develop ways to audit new artificial intelligence products.
  • Rachel Reeves, a UK political figure, has announced a £15 billion spending plan in response to concerns from her political party.

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Author Bernardine Evaristo 'astonished' to receive one-off £100k prize

Author Bernardine Evaristo 'astonished' to receive one-off £100k prize

Bernardine Evaristo received a special award with a £100,000 prize from the Women's Prize for Fiction for her significant work in literature and promoting diversity. She plans to use the prize money to support female writers and will share more about her plans later this year.

Key Facts:

  • Bernardine Evaristo was honored with a one-time outstanding contribution award by the Women's Prize for Fiction.
  • She is the first Black woman to win the Booker Prize, sharing it with Margaret Atwood in 2019.
  • The award recognizes her career achievements and advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the arts.
  • Evaristo will get £100,000 and a sculpture, to be awarded at a ceremony in London on 12 June.
  • She intends to use the prize money to support projects for female writers.
  • Evaristo co-founded Britain's first Black women's theatre company and other initiatives for diverse writers.
  • She was awarded an MBE in 2009 for her contributions to literature.
  • Evaristo emphasized the ongoing need for advocacy to maintain progress in women's rights.

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Labour is cosying up to China after years of rollercoaster relations

Labour is cosying up to China after years of rollercoaster relations

A group of UK mayors and their deputies visited China, marking the largest British civic mission to the country in recent times. This trip focused on rekindling diplomatic and trade relations, with discussions on business cooperation and climate talks. The visit is seen as a shift towards improving ties between the UK and China after years of strained relations.

Key Facts:

  • A delegation of UK mayors and deputies visited China in March, marking the biggest British civic visit to China in modern history.
  • The group traveled to several southern Chinese cities and met with local Chinese leaders and technology companies.
  • Approximately six deals were signed during the visit, including a new UK headquarters for Chinese energy company EcoFlow in Birmingham.
  • The visit aimed to rebuild diplomatic and trade relations between the UK and China.
  • This shift echoes the "golden era" of UK-China relations in the early 2010s when economic relations were a key focus.
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves co-chaired the first UK-China economic summit since 2019, aiming to boost the UK economy by engaging with China.
  • Energy Secretary Ed Miliband resumed climate talks with China to address joint environmental concerns.

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Athletes urge PM to back London 2029 World Championships bid

Athletes urge PM to back London 2029 World Championships bid

More than 100 British athletes have asked Prime Minister Keir Starmer to support London's bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships. The event would take place at the London Stadium and requires public funds, with a prospective benefit of £400 million to the UK's economy.

Key Facts:

  • Over 100 British athletes signed a letter to the Prime Minister.
  • The athletes want London to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
  • Famous athletes like Sir Mo Farah and Dame Kelly Holmes supported the bid.
  • The event would be held at the London Stadium.
  • It needs public funds in 2028 to go ahead.
  • Hosting the event could potentially add £400 million to the UK's economy.
  • The last time London hosted the Championships was in 2017.
  • The decision process for the bid begins this summer.

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Jonathan Joss: Three roles the late US actor was known for

Jonathan Joss: Three roles the late US actor was known for

Jonathan Joss, a US actor known for his roles in "King of the Hill" and "Parks and Recreation," has passed away at 59. He was recognized for bringing more Native American representation to television through his diverse career in films, TV shows, and stage productions.

Key Facts:

  • Jonathan Joss was an actor famous for "King of the Hill" and "Parks and Recreation."
  • He died at the age of 59, and his death is being investigated by police in Texas.
  • Joss voiced the character John Redcorn in "King of the Hill," a Native American healer.
  • Redcorn's character dealt with cultural themes, including Native American land rights.
  • Joss portrayed Chief Ken Hotate, a Native American tribe leader, in "Parks and Recreation."
  • Both characters highlighted issues faced by Native American communities.
  • Joss's work helped increase the visibility of Native Americans on screen.

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How Bazball's baby showed merit in England's thinking

How Bazball's baby showed merit in England's thinking

England's cricket team won a series against the West Indies, powered by Jamie Smith's impressive performance. Smith scored 64 runs from 28 balls, helping England secure a 3-0 series win. England's coach, Brendon McCullum, has shown confidence in Smith, suggesting his potential as a valuable opener for future matches.

Key Facts:

  • England's cricket team beat the West Indies to win the series 3-0.
  • Jamie Smith scored 64 runs quickly in the final match, boosting the team's performance.
  • The match took place at The Oval in London.
  • England's team faced traffic issues and arrived on e-bikes.
  • Jamie Smith's performance was part of England's new strategy under coach Brendon McCullum.
  • Smith, 24, was chosen to open the batting, a position he started playing recently in professional cricket.
  • Smith has played 24 international matches and is known for both aggressive and technically solid batting.
  • England is looking to improve its opening partnerships after challenges in previous games.

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