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Temperatures rise for last day of record breaking spring

May 30, 2025

Over the weekend, temperatures are expected to rise across England and eastern Wales, with some areas reaching 26°C (79°F). However, northern parts of the UK will see rain. June begins with a slight chance of hot weather, possibly bringing thunderstorms.

Key Facts:

Temperatures in England and eastern Wales may reach 26°C (79°F) on Saturday.
Spring 2025 has been the sunniest on record in the UK.
June 1 marks the start of meteorological summer.
High pressure will bring warm weather to southern parts, while northern areas will see rain.
A hot spell could happen in early June, with a chance of thunderstorms.
UV levels are high in June, even on cloudy days.
Grass pollen peaks in June, affecting hay fever sufferers.

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British woman accused of drug offences tells BBC of Sri Lanka jail conditions

May 30, 2025

A British woman named Charlotte May Lee appeared in a Sri Lankan court after being accused of trying to smuggle 46 kilograms of cannabis into the country. She was arrested when the authorities allegedly found the drugs in her suitcases. The investigation continues, and she has not yet been formally charged.

Key Facts:

Charlotte May Lee is a 21-year-old British woman from South London.
She was detained in Sri Lanka after allegedly having 46 kilograms of cannabis in her luggage.
The arrest occurred when she arrived on a flight from Thailand to Sri Lanka.
Ms. Lee denies knowing the drugs were in her suitcases.
If convicted, she could face a prison sentence of up to 25 years.
The narcotics division in Sri Lanka is still investigating and has ordered a test to confirm the substance is illegal.
Ms. Lee is currently sharing a cell with five other women and has limited contact with her family.
Her next court date is scheduled for July 13, and her lawyer is planning to apply for bail.

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'We want Rangers back at the top' - US consortium completes takeover

May 30, 2025

A US-based group led by Andrew Cavenagh, including investors from the San Francisco 49ers, has bought a 51% share of the Rangers football club. The group plans to invest £20 million in the club and will focus on improving team performance and ensuring financial stability. Cavenagh will become the new chairman, and Paraag Marathe will serve as vice-chairman.

Key Facts:

A US group has taken over 51% of Rangers football club.
Andrew Cavenagh leads this group, which includes the 49ers investment arm.
The group plans to invest £20 million in Rangers after a share issue.
Andrew Cavenagh will be the new chairman, with Paraag Marathe as vice-chairman.
The Scottish Football Association approved the takeover despite concerns about owning interests in multiple clubs.
New board members are Mark Taber, Andrew Clayton, and Gene Schneur, while some previous members will stay.
Kevin Thelwell will start as sporting director, and Rangers are close to appointing a new head coach.
The group's focus includes improving the team's performance and maintaining financial stability.

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Millionaires shouldn't get winter fuel cash, Treasury minister says

May 30, 2025

The government is considering changes to the winter fuel payment, aiming to direct funds to those who need it most, rather than wealthy pensioners. Over 10 million pensioners lost this payment last year due to policy changes that restricted eligibility, but the government is now reviewing the criteria, following public pressure and criticism.

Key Facts:

The winter fuel payment is a yearly payment to help pensioners with energy bills, worth up to £300.
The payment was previously available to all pensioners, but changes limited it to those on pension credit and other income-related benefits.
More than 10 million pensioners were affected by the change last year, which aimed to save £1.4 billion.
Government officials, including Minister Darren Jones, say the payment should go to those who need it most, not to wealthy individuals.
There is no current detail on how many pensioners will regain access to the payment or the cost to the government.
The income threshold for pension credit, which determines eligibility for the payment, is £11,800 for individuals and £18,023 for couples.
The Institute for Fiscal Studies has suggested that a new means-test could make it difficult for pensioners to claim, adding administrative costs.
Some political parties and groups are calling for the payment to be fully restored to all pensioners.

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The Week: Starmer v Farage, Trump Tariffs and Political Stunts

May 30, 2025

The BBC Sounds podcast episode "The Week" covers key political topics involving Keir Starmer, Nigel Farage, Donald Trump's tariffs, and various political actions. Hosts Adam, Alex, James, and Vicki discuss these events over a 28-minute program that was released on May 30, 2025.

Key Facts:

The podcast episode is titled "The Week: Starmer v Farage, Trump Tariffs and Political Stunts."
It was released on May 30, 2025, and lasts for 28 minutes.
Hosts Adam, Alex, James, and Vicki discuss political topics of the week.
The topics include actions by Keir Starmer and Nigel Farage.
Donald Trump's tariffs are mentioned as part of the discussion.
The episode is available on BBC Sounds and can be accessed for over a year.

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How Chelsea moved to brink of signing £30m Delap

May 30, 2025

Chelsea is close to signing striker Liam Delap after he attracted interest from several clubs, including Manchester United and Everton. Delap chose Chelsea partly because they secured a spot in the Champions League, and Manchester City decided not to activate their option to buy him back.

Key Facts:

Liam Delap played at Ipswich after leaving Manchester City.
Several clubs, including Manchester United, Everton, and Newcastle, showed interest in Delap.
Chelsea's qualification for the Champions League influenced Delap's decision.
Manchester City had a chance to buy Delap back but chose not to.
Delap was seen at Stansted Airport before a medical examination with Chelsea.
Chelsea's co-owner and head coach actively pursued Delap for the team.
Delap's choice may affect whether he plays in the European Under-21 Championship or joins Chelsea for the Club World Cup.

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Jeremy Clarkson's new co-star: 'I wear make-up but it doesn't mean I can't be a farmer'

May 30, 2025

Harriet Cowan, a 24-year-old farmer from Derbyshire, joined Jeremy Clarkson on his show, Clarkson's Farm, for three episodes. She uses this platform to raise awareness about mental health challenges among farmers and to fight stereotypes about farming, particularly those concerning gender roles.

Key Facts:

Harriet Cowan is a farmer from Derbyshire and also works as a community nurse.
She appeared on Clarkson's Farm for three episodes, replacing regular cast member Kaleb Cooper.
Harriet aims to use her time on the show to advocate for farmers' mental health and challenge farming stereotypes.
The show highlights pressures farmers face, like unpredictable grass growth and costs.
Harriet wants to change the stereotype that farming is only for older men.
The show Clarkson's Farm started in 2021 and is on its fourth season.
Harriet was invited to the show by the land agent Charlie Ireland, known as "Cheerful Charlie" on the program.
Harriet had not watched the show prior to her participation.

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Russian captain of ship in North Sea oil tanker crash denies manslaughter

May 30, 2025

The captain of a cargo ship that collided with an oil tanker in the North Sea has pleaded not guilty to gross negligence manslaughter. The crash happened on March 10, resulting in the disappearance of a crew member, who is presumed dead. The trial is scheduled for January 12, 2026.

Key Facts:

The captain's name is Vladimir Motin, and he is from Primorsky, St Petersburg, Russia.
The incident involved the cargo ship Solong, which flies a Portuguese flag and a US tanker named Stena Immaculate.
The collision occurred about 13 miles off the East Yorkshire coast.
A Filipino crew member on the Solong, Mark Angelo Pernia, is missing and presumed dead.
Mr. Motin was assisted by a Russian interpreter when confirming his identity and entering his plea.
The interim report on the crash by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch states that rescuers saved 36 crew members from both ships.
A case management hearing is set for September 10, ahead of the trial date on January 12, 2026.

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Tiara belonging to first female MP to take seat expected to fetch £250,000

May 30, 2025

A Cartier-made turquoise and diamond tiara, once owned by Nancy Astor, is set to be auctioned by Bonhams in London and could sell for over £250,000. Nancy Astor was notable for being the first woman to take a seat in the UK House of Commons, and she wore the tiara to a film premiere in 1931.

Key Facts:

The tiara was owned by Nancy Astor, the first female member to sit in the UK House of Commons.
It is expected to fetch between £250,000 and £350,000 at auction.
Nancy Astor was elected to represent Plymouth Sutton in 1919 and served until 1945.
The auction at Bonhams will be the first time the tiara is up for sale since it was purchased in 1930.
The tiara was worn by Astor at the City Lights film premiere in 1931.
Nancy Astor worked to pass laws like the Intoxicating Liquor Act and promoted women's voting rights.
The auction is scheduled for 5 June at Bonhams in New Bond Street, London.

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Russell Brand pleads not guilty to rape and assault

May 30, 2025

Russell Brand appeared in court in London and pleaded not guilty to several charges, including rape and sexual assault. He faces a trial starting on June 3, 2026, for alleged offenses involving four women between 1999 and 2005.

Key Facts:

Russell Brand denied charges of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault in a London court.
He will go on trial on June 3, 2026.
The alleged offenses happened in central London and Bournemouth between 1999 and 2005.
There are five charges against him, involving four different women.
The accusations include incidents such as rape in 1999 and various sexual assaults between 2001 and 2005.
Brand is on conditional bail until the trial begins.
He expressed in a video that he has never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity and looks forward to defending himself in court.
Brand became famous as a comedian and TV host and later acted in Hollywood films.

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Real Madrid pay Liverpool to sign Alexander-Arnold early

May 30, 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold will join Real Madrid on 1 June after Liverpool accepted a transfer fee. The fee was agreed so he could play in the upcoming Club World Cup. He has signed a six-year contract with a large buy-out clause.

Key Facts:

Alexander-Arnold leaves Liverpool for Real Madrid on 1 June.
Liverpool accepted a transfer fee of around 10 million euros from Real Madrid.
The move allows Alexander-Arnold to play in the Club World Cup.
He signed a six-year contract with Real Madrid.
His new contract includes a 1 billion euro buy-out clause.
He will join other top players like Jude Bellingham and Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold played for Liverpool since he was six, winning multiple trophies.
He played 354 games for Liverpool, scoring 23 goals and making 92 assists.

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Disposable vapes ban unlikely to reduce appeal, says campaigner

May 30, 2025

The UK will ban disposable vapes to reduce youth vaping and electronic waste. However, some people believe the ban might not decrease vaping among teens as reusable vapes are similar to disposables.

Key Facts:

The UK government will ban single-use vapes effective Sunday.
The ban aims to reduce youth vaping and electronic waste.
Some believe reusable vapes, similar to disposables, will maintain vaping's appeal to teens.
NHS data from 2024 shows a quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds have tried vaping.
Reusable vapes often look like disposables and are sold at similar prices.
Almost five million disposable vapes were thrown away weekly in 2023.
Vapes contain harmful components like batteries and circuit boards.
Refillable vapes could theoretically reduce waste, though concerns remain about their environmental impact.

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Fernandes considering quitting Man Utd for Al-Hilal

May 30, 2025

Bruno Fernandes is considering leaving Manchester United to join the Saudi Pro-League club Al-Hilal. Discussions between his representatives and Al-Hilal have taken place, and the potential move has been a topic during Manchester United's tour in Asia.

Key Facts:

Bruno Fernandes might leave Manchester United for Al-Hilal next week.
Al-Hilal offers him a contract that could more than double his current earnings.
Fernandes' representatives have already talked to Al-Hilal officials.
Manchester United's coach admits the transfer fee could help rebuild the team.
Despite these talks, Fernandes continues to perform his role as captain.
Fernandes recently extended his contract with Manchester United until 2027.
He has played 290 matches and scored 98 goals for Manchester United since 2020.
Al-Hilal seeks high-profile players for their upcoming Club World Cup matches.

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Hawk that terrorised village given forever home

May 30, 2025

A Harris's hawk, nicknamed "Bomber Harris," that had been attacking people in the village of Flamstead, Hertfordshire, has been captured and trained by a local falconer, Wayne Housden. The hawk now has a permanent home with Housden and is no longer considered a threat.

Key Facts:

The hawk was responsible for attacking around 50 people in Flamstead over at least a month.
One of the attack victims, an elderly man, had to go to the hospital due to injuries from the hawk.
The bird, a Harris's hawk, is not native to the area and was believed to be a captive-bred bird that had escaped or lost its owner.
Wayne Housden, an experienced falconer, captured the hawk after talks of possibly euthanizing the bird.
Housden spent about £1,000 on an aviary to house the hawk and plans to keep it full-time.
The hawk had not been claimed by its original owner, as indicated by its worn leather tags.
The Royal Mail services in the village were disrupted by the hawk's attacks.
The hawk will be featured at the Flamstead Scarecrow Festival, with hopes it can be flown freely by autumn.

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Illness, homelessness and a 630-mile trek: The woman who inspired Hollywood film

May 30, 2025

Raynor Winn and her husband Moth embarked on a long walk along the South West Coastal Path after losing their home and Moth's diagnosis with a serious brain disease. Their journey, which gave them a sense of purpose, inspired Winn's memoir "The Salt Path" and has now been turned into a film.

Key Facts:

Raynor Winn and her husband Moth walked 630 miles after facing financial loss and Moth's diagnosis with Corticobasal Degeneration, a rare brain disease.
The couple traveled from Somerset to Dorset along England's longest continuous path.
Raynor Winn wrote a memoir about their journey called "The Salt Path."
The book was shortlisted for the 2018 Wainwright Prize for travel-based writing.
A film adaptation of "The Salt Path," starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs, began filming in the summer of 2023.
Raynor and Moth continue to raise funds for research into Corticobasal Degeneration.
The story has inspired many people and drawn attention to the challenges of Moth's incurable illness.

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University dropout to rising star: Why folk singer Jacob Alon is one to watch

May 30, 2025

Jacob Alon is a folk singer from Scotland who is gaining attention for their unique music style and personal stories. The singer, who identifies as non-binary, left university to pursue music, drawing inspiration from life experiences, themes of love, and existential exploration, as highlighted in their debut album "In Limerence".

Key Facts:

Jacob Alon is a Scottish singer-songwriter known for their unique guitar style and vocal delivery.
They use their fingernails instead of a guitar pick, inspired by online tutorials.
Jacob's music often explores themes of love and romantic infatuation.
Their debut album is called "In Limerence" and deals with emotions and relationships.
Jacob identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns.
They dropped out of Edinburgh University, where they studied theoretical physics and medicine, to focus on music.
Jacob's experiences with queer dating and relationship dynamics influence their songs.
The decision to leave university and pursue music was influenced by a challenging academic environment and personal struggles, including undiagnosed ADHD.

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UK's muddy saltmarshes vital to tackle climate change, report finds

May 30, 2025

A report by the WWF highlights the importance of the UK's saltmarshes in combating climate change. These areas capture and store greenhouse gases in mud, and restoring them could help reduce carbon emissions and protect against coastal flooding.

Key Facts:

Saltmarshes are areas between the land and sea that can prevent flooding naturally.
The WWF report says that saltmarshes lock away climate-warming gases in mud layers.
Much of the UK's saltmarsh areas have been used for farming, leading to loss.
Including saltmarshes in the UK's carbon accounting could encourage their protection and restoration.
Researchers installed solar-powered equipment to study gas levels on Hesketh Out Marsh in Northwest England.
The study found that plants in saltmarshes absorb more carbon dioxide during the summer.
The UK has lost about 85% of its saltmarshes since 1860, often viewed as unsuitable for agriculture.
Restored saltmarsh areas, like Hesketh Out Marsh, are important for wildlife and act as flood defenses.

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The man making darts for the Premier League winner

May 30, 2025

Lee Huxtable is a darts designer who creates customized darts for top players. He has worked with many world champions, including Luke Humphries, who recently won the Premier League Darts with Huxtable's darts.

Key Facts:

Lee Huxtable designs darts for professional players in the sport of darts.
He made darts for world champions like Peter Wright, Gerwyn Price, and Luke Humphries.
Huxtable works as the head of development for Red Dragon Darts, based in Bridgend, Wales.
His darts helped Luke Humphries win the Premier League Darts in 2025.
Huxtable has been involved in making darts for over 25 years.
The company Huxtable works for, Nodor, mass-produces darts in Kenya and has a sales center in Dallas, Texas.
Nodor uses sisal, a natural plant from Kenya, to produce dartboards, which are known as bristle boards.

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Three endangered macaques born at monkey sanctuary

May 30, 2025

Three endangered Barbary macaque monkeys were born at the Trentham Monkey Forest in Staffordshire. The sanctuary, home to 140 macaques, discovered the new arrivals during a morning feeding. The births are part of the sanctuary's "baby season," which helps raise awareness about the species' endangered status.

Key Facts:

Three Barbary macaque monkeys were born at Trentham Monkey Forest in Staffordshire.
There are fewer than 8,000 Barbary macaques in the wild.
The monkeys were found by the head guide, Anna Smith, during morning feeding rounds.
The Trentham sanctuary is home to 140 Barbary macaques.
Staff had anticipated the births as part of the "baby season" at the sanctuary.
Newborns appear with pink faces and black fur, clinging to their mothers for support.
Trentham Monkey Forest collaborates with groups to protect wild Barbary macaques in Morocco and Algeria.
The sanctuary aims to raise awareness about the endangered status of Barbary macaques.

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From £1 tickets to super fences and hip-hop - Glastonbury through the years

May 30, 2025

Glastonbury Festival began in 1970 with £1 tickets and a free pint of milk. Over the years, it has grown from a small event into a big, global music festival with major acts performing. The festival introduced its well-known Pyramid Stage in 1971 and faced both successes and challenges, including a stage fire in 1994.

Key Facts:

Glastonbury started in 1970 with 1,500 attendees; tickets cost £1.
The first headliners, The Kinks and Wayne Fontana, were replaced by Tyrannosaurus Rex.
In 1971, the festival was renamed Glastonbury Fair, was free to enter, and drew 12,000 people.
The Pyramid Stage made its debut in 1971 and was located on a site with supposed spiritual significance.
In 1979, the festival focused on children and led to the creation of the Children's World charity.
After a break in 1980, the festival returned in 1981, partnering with the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament.
In 1994, the Pyramid Stage burned down two days before the festival, but a replacement was quickly secured.
1994 was also the first year the festival was broadcast on TV, initially by Channel 4.

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