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Giant's Causeway visitors urged not to jam coins into iconic rocks

May 27, 2025

Visitors to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland are being asked not to insert coins into the rocks. The coins rust, causing damage and discoloration, and efforts are underway to remove them and prevent further harm.

Key Facts:

The Giant's Causeway is a famous site with around 40,000 basalt columns.
Tourists have started placing coins in cracks of the rocks, similar to leaving padlocks on a bridge.
The coins rust, discolor, and damage the basalt columns.
The National Trust, which takes care of the site, is removing the coins to prevent more damage.
Dr. Cliff Henry from the National Trust says coins cause physical damage and chemical reactions that harm the rocks.
A stonemason is working to remove coins without harming the rocks, having removed about 10% so far.
Signs are being placed, and tour guides are instructing visitors not to insert coins.
Dr. Kirstin Lemon from the Geological Survey suggests removing coins to stop further damage.

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'Football is a source of comradeship' - Slot grateful for support

May 27, 2025

Arne Slot was named manager of the year and Premier League manager of the year at the League Managers Association awards. He decided not to attend the ceremony due to a car incident at Liverpool's title parade that injured about 50 people. Slot replaced Jurgen Klopp and led Liverpool to a league win, signing only one new player.

Key Facts:

Arne Slot won manager of the year and Premier League manager of the year awards.
Around 50 people were hurt in a car incident during Liverpool's title parade.
Slot was honored but did not attend the award ceremony in London.
He replaced Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool's manager last summer.
Slot signed one player, Federico Chiesa, and won Liverpool's second Premier League title.
The team finished 10 points ahead of Arsenal in the league.
Emergency services responded quickly to the parade incident.
Other managers received awards in different leagues, and several were inducted into the LMA hall of fame.

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The tiny island where puffins are thriving despite global decline

May 27, 2025

Puffins on Skomer Island off the coast of Pembrokeshire are thriving, with a record count of 43,626 birds this year. While puffin numbers are declining worldwide, the island's puffins have benefited from a food supply and lack of predators.

Key Facts:

Conservationists counted 43,626 puffins on Skomer Island this year, setting a new record.
Skomer Island is managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales.
The island's isolation helps protect puffins from predators like rats and cats.
Skomer is also home to other seabirds, including 350,000 manx shearwaters.
The annual puffin count is conducted by six staff members in the evening.
The global puffin population is listed as vulnerable to extinction due to threats like pollution and climate change.
Skomer's puffins benefit from a good food supply and predator protection.
Around 25,000 visitors come to Skomer Island each year to see the seabirds.

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A soft knock - how police arrest a suspected paedophile

May 27, 2025

Police in Scotland used a calm approach to arrest a man suspected of inappropriate online interactions with a 13-year-old girl. During the operation, the detectives aimed to minimize disturbance in the neighborhood while informing the suspect's family about the serious nature of the charges. The investigation highlights a rise in such cases as offenders find it easier to contact children online.

Key Facts:

Police arrested a man in Scotland for suspected sexual communication with a 13-year-old girl.
The arrest was carried out quietly to avoid attracting attention in the neighborhood.
The suspect's family learned about the nature of the charges from the police.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in cases where offenders contact children directly online.
Offenders use various online platforms to interact with children, often within seconds.
The police unit handles about 700 cases of child sexual abuse annually, a 30% rise since 2015.
Offenders come from different professions, including teachers, lawyers, and police officers.
Cases are often identified through referrals from the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.

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Rules that force small housebuilders to improve wildlife habitats to be reviewed

May 27, 2025

The UK government is considering changes to environmental rules to help small housebuilders in England. These changes would make it easier and cheaper for them to build houses while still protecting wildlife. The goal is to speed up house-building and meet targets by simplifying the planning system, especially for minor developments.

Key Facts:

The government is reviewing Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) rules, which require developers to improve wildlife habitats when building houses.
The focus is on reducing costs for small housebuilders and simplifying the planning process.
Small developments, up to nine homes, might face less strict BNG rules.
Sites with 10 to 49 homes could be exempt from a tax used to fix unsafe building materials.
The government aims to build 1.5 million homes in England by 2030, but recent figures show progress is slow.
BNG became mandatory in England in February 2021 and requires a 10% improvement in biodiversity over 30 years.
There are concerns that easing rules might weaken environmental protections.
The Home Builders Federation supports changes but points out challenges like planning resources and guidance.

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Keep calm and carry on - Draper gets off French Open mark

May 27, 2025

Jack Draper, a British tennis player, won his first match at the French Open by beating Italy's Mattia Bellucci. This victory marks Draper's first win at the French tournament after previous unsuccessful attempts, and he joins five other British players in the second round.

Key Facts:

Jack Draper won his first French Open match against Mattia Bellucci with scores 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-2.
Draper is ranked fifth and is currently the British men's number one tennis player.
He had lost in his first two appearances at Roland Garros but succeeded this year.
Draper focused on staying calm and patient during the match, particularly in the longer Grand Slam format.
Six British singles players, including Draper, advanced past the first round at the French Open for the first time since 1973.
Draper has seen significant career progress, reaching his first Grand Slam semi-final at the US Open last year.
He aims to advance further in the tournament, inspired by confidence in his abilities on clay courts.
Draper is set to face either Gael Monfils or Hugo Dellien in the second round.

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Liverpool driver arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after parade crash

May 27, 2025

A car hit a group of people during Liverpool's football parade, injuring 50 people. The driver, a 53-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and driving offenses. Police are investigating, and the incident is not considered terrorism.

Key Facts:

A car crashed into a crowd during Liverpool's football victory parade.
The driver was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
50 people were treated in the hospital, with 11 still hospitalized.
The incident happened when the car followed an ambulance through a roadblock.
Police stated there was no sign this was a planned attack or terrorism.
Authorities advised against online speculation and asked for information to be given directly to police.
Liverpool's city center was crowded with fans celebrating the football team's win.
Water Street, where the incident took place, remains closed for investigation.

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Yamal signs new six-year Barcelona contract

May 27, 2025

Lamine Yamal, a 17-year-old footballer, signed a new six-year contract with Barcelona, extending his stay until 2031. Yamal has had a successful season, helping the team win multiple trophies and setting records as one of the youngest and most talented players in the club’s history.

Key Facts:

Lamine Yamal is 17 years old and plays as a winger for Barcelona.
He signed a new contract with Barcelona that lasts until 2031.
Yamal debuted for Barcelona at age 15 and is one of their youngest players.
In the past season, he scored 18 goals and made 25 assists in 55 games.
Yamal helped Barcelona win La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
He became the youngest player to score in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Yamal has played 115 games for Barcelona and scored 25 goals overall.
He has played for the Spain national team and was part of the squad that won Euro 2024.

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Mark Gordon assaulted police on maternity ward, court hears

May 27, 2025

Mark Gordon assaulted two female police officers in a hospital maternity ward after his first child was born, according to a court. He was later convicted for the assault, which involved physical struggle and required leg restraints to detain him. Gordon and Constance Marten are also on trial for charges related to the death of their child, Victoria.

Key Facts:

Mark Gordon assaulted two police officers on a maternity ward in 2017.
The incident occurred after medical staff raised concerns about the identity of Gordon and Constance Marten as parents.
Gordon gave a false name, James Amer, and an incorrect date of birth.
Police struggled to restrain Gordon, leading to the use of leg restraints.
The confrontation lasted about 10 minutes and left one officer with bruises and cuts.
Gordon pleaded guilty to the assaults at a Magistrates' Court.
He and Constance Marten are on trial for manslaughter by gross negligence related to their child, Victoria.
A manhunt was launched for the couple in 2023 after they fled with Victoria following a car fire.

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Man Utd meet Wolves terms for £62.5m Cunha deal

May 27, 2025

Manchester United has agreed to pay £62.5 million to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. The transfer includes paying the fee in three payments over two years, and Cunha will have a medical check before the move is finalized.

Key Facts:

Manchester United will pay a £62.5 million release clause to sign Matheus Cunha.
Wolverhampton Wanderers gave Manchester United permission to speak to Cunha.
Initially, Wolves rejected United's offer to spread the payment over five years.
The total fee will be paid in three installments over two years.
Matheus Cunha, 26 years old, is a forward player from Brazil.
Cunha has played 92 matches for Wolves and scored 33 goals.
He joined Wolves in January 2023, originally on loan from Atletico Madrid.

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Injured NI fan feels 'very lucky to still be here' after being hit by car

May 27, 2025

Jack Trotter, a man from Northern Ireland, was hit by a car during a Liverpool FC victory parade. He sustained back and leg injuries and now uses crutches. Despite the incident, he feels thankful for the support he received and for being alive.

Key Facts:

Jack Trotter and his girlfriend, Abbie Gallagher, were hit by a car at the Liverpool parade.
The accident occurred on Water Street in Liverpool at about 18:00 BST.
Thousands of Liverpool fans were present for the Premier League victory celebration.
Jack was taken to the hospital with back and leg injuries and stayed overnight.
He is now using crutches and feels grateful to be alive.
Abbie described the day as initially being joyful before the accident happened.
Both Jack and Abbie were very concerned for each other's safety during the incident.
The couple received help and support from people around them after the accident.

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Disposable vapes are about to be banned - here's what you need to know

May 27, 2025

From June 1, 2025, selling or supplying disposable vapes will be illegal in the UK to reduce environmental harm and curb youth vaping. The law includes fines and potential prison time for violators and introduces a vaping tax in 2026. The ban is part of broader efforts to regulate vaping products and minimize their environmental impact.

Key Facts:

From June 1, 2025, it will be illegal for businesses in the UK to sell disposable vapes.
Retailers breaking the law face fines and possible prison sentences.
Only reusable vapes with rechargeable batteries will be allowed.
A new vaping tax of £2.20 per 10ml will start on October 1, 2026.
Advertising and sponsorship for vapes will be banned under a new government bill.
More than six million illegal vapes were seized in England in recent years.
Disposable vapes are harmful to the environment and difficult to recycle.
Around 18% of children aged 11-17 have tried vaping, with about 7% currently vaping.

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How can Raducanu stun the 'Queen of Clay'?

May 27, 2025

Emma Raducanu will face Iga Swiatek in the second round of the French Open. Raducanu has lost all previous matches against Swiatek, who is a top player on clay courts. Though Swiatek is a strong competitor, she has struggled with some parts of her game recently, which Raducanu might use to her advantage.

Key Facts:

Emma Raducanu will play Iga Swiatek in the French Open second round.
Raducanu is 22 years old and recently defeated Wang Xinyu.
Swiatek, nicknamed the 'Queen of Clay,' has won four of the last five French Open tournaments.
Raducanu has lost all four previous matches against Swiatek.
Swiatek has won 22 matches in a row at the French Open but has not reached a final since last year's tournament.
Swiatek has struggled with her forehand during this clay-court season.
Raducanu’s forehand has improved and is considered a strong part of her game.
Raducanu is currently ranked 41st in the world.

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Voiceover artist says ScotRail's AI announcement uses her voice without permission

May 27, 2025

A voiceover artist, Gayanne Potter, claims that her voice was used to create ScotRail's new AI-generated train announcement system without her consent. The AI voice, named Iona, was developed by the technology firm ReadSpeaker and has caused controversy among passengers who find it robotic.

Key Facts:

Gayanne Potter is a voiceover artist who believes her voice was used to train the AI voice for ScotRail's announcements.
The AI voice, called Iona, was created by the Swedish company ReadSpeaker.
ReadSpeaker claims to have addressed Potter's concerns multiple times.
ScotRail plans to continue using the Iona system despite the dispute.
Potter worked with ReadSpeaker in 2021 for a different project.
Potter expressed distress at discovering the AI's use and received negative feedback from passengers about its robotic sound.
Legal expert Jennifer Cass noted that current UK copyright laws do not protect a person's voice or likeness against AI usage.
ReadSpeaker markets Iona as an "AI voice generator" based on human voice talent.

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Young actors revealed for Harry Potter TV series

May 27, 2025

HBO has chosen three young actors, Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton, and Alastair Stout, to play Harry, Hermione, and Ron in its upcoming Harry Potter TV series. This series will adapt J.K. Rowling's book series and aims to closely follow the original stories. Filming is set to begin in the summer, with the series possibly airing in 2026 on HBO Max.

Key Facts:

HBO announced the main actors for its Harry Potter TV series.
Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton will play Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout will play Ron Weasley.
Over 30,000 children tried out for these roles in an open casting call.
John Lithgow will portray Albus Dumbledore, with Janet McTeer and Paapa Essiedu playing Minerva McGonagall and Severus Snape, respectively.
Other actors include Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid and Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch.
The series will be a detailed adaptation of the Harry Potter books, overseen by J.K. Rowling as an executive producer.
Filming is planned to begin in the summer at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK.
The TV series could start airing on HBO Max as early as 2026.

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'No path forward' - Orie announces shock retirement

May 27, 2025

Heavyweight boxer Delicious Orie has retired from professional boxing at age 27, after only one professional fight. Despite being a prominent amateur boxer, he chose to leave the sport to pursue a career in business, citing a loss of passion for boxing.

Key Facts:

Delicious Orie is a heavyweight boxer who decided to retire at 27.
He made his professional debut in April and won his first fight against Milos Veletic.
Orie won a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and represented Great Britain at the Paris Olympics.
He retired to focus on his degree and a career in the corporate world.
Orie has a first-class honors degree in Economics and Management from Aston University.
He turned down an offer from WWE to continue with boxing before choosing to retire.
Orie was signed with Queensberry promotions and was highly regarded in the boxing community.
He was expected to achieve significant success in the professional boxing ranks.

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Ministers considering scrapping two-child benefit cap

May 27, 2025

The UK government is considering whether to remove a rule that limits benefits to the first two children in a family. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said this change would be expensive but could help reduce poverty. The government will make a decision in the autumn, as part of their plan to address child poverty.

Key Facts:

The two-child benefit cap stops families from getting extra benefit money for a third child if they were born after April 2017.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson mentioned the government is thinking about removing this cap.
Phillipson warned that ending the cap would cost a lot of money.
The decision will be part of the government's child poverty plan, expected in the autumn.
The rule has been criticized for pushing families into poverty.
Around 1.6 million children are affected by the cap.
Removing the cap could cost £3.5 billion but might help 470,000 children escape poverty.
Different political parties, like the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party, have promised to remove the cap in their plans.

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Bournemouth beach huts destroyed in overnight fire

May 27, 2025

Seven beach huts on Bournemouth's East Beach were destroyed by a fire, with two more partially damaged. The fire was extinguished by 3:00 AM BST, and an investigation is ongoing to find out what caused it.

Key Facts:

A fire damaged a total of nine beach huts at East Beach, Bournemouth.
The fire started around 1:20 AM BST and was put out by 3:00 AM BST.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council advised people to avoid the area.
One of the damaged huts is the UK's first council-owned beach hut, built in 1909.
BCP Council is helping the only customer renting a hut find a replacement.
The fire affected a 25m by 15m area and created a lot of smoke.
The council is reviewing CCTV footage to help with the investigation.
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service handled the incident, with Dorset Police also attending.

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England's Atkinson ruled out of West Indies ODIs

May 27, 2025

Gus Atkinson will not play in England's one-day international cricket series against the West Indies due to a hamstring injury. England will not replace him in the squad for the upcoming matches, but he is expected to be ready for the series against India in June. This series is Harry Brook’s first as captain, and it could impact England's chances of qualifying for the 2027 World Cup.

Key Facts:

Gus Atkinson, a fast bowler, is injured and will miss the series against the West Indies.
Atkinson got hurt during England's recent win against Zimbabwe.
England will not add a new player to the team for Atkinson's absence.
Jofra Archer is also not playing due to a thumb injury.
The ODI series against the West Indies starts on Thursday at Edgbaston.
Harry Brook is the new captain for England's white-ball team.
This series affects England's ranking for the 2027 World Cup qualification.
The series includes three one-day matches followed by three T20 matches.

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Drug-fuelled driver who caused death of three-year-old girl jailed

May 27, 2025

A van driver named Rawal Rehman, after taking cocaine, crashed his van into a tram and caused the death of a three-year-old girl named Louisa Palmisano, known as Lulu, in Manchester. Rehman fled the scene but was arrested the next day and has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for causing death by dangerous driving.

Key Facts:

Rawal Rehman took at least 20 lines of cocaine before the crash on 22 February.
The van crashed into a tram and then hit three-year-old Louisa Palmisano as she was walking with her parents.
Louisa Palmisano died in the hospital shortly after the crash.
Rehman initially fled the crash scene by flagging down a taxi.
He was arrested the day after the incident following a police manhunt.
Rehman has previous convictions, including a three-year jail sentence in 2017 for interfering with justice in another case.
He was sentenced to 12 years in jail at Manchester Crown Court after pleading guilty.
The court heard evidence from CCTV showing the events leading up to and following the crash.

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