A Mother’s Worst Nightmare  Birthday Balloons Still Hanging as Police Charge Teen With Killing 9-Year-Old Girl

In the quaint seaside town of Weston-super-Mare, where families stroll along the pier and children chase waves under the summer sun, a chilling darkness descended on a quiet residential street. On the evening of December 15, 2025, emergency sirens shattered the peace as police rushed to a modest family home. Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe, a vibrant girl who had just celebrated her birthday with laughter and cake. Stabbed once in a fatal wound, Aria’s young life was cut short in an act that has left her community reeling and her loved ones grappling with profound grief. Now, a 15-year-old boy stands accused of her murder, appearing in court amid a storm of questions about how such horror could unfold in a place meant for safety and innocence.

theguardian.comAria Thorpe killing: family of nine-year-old pay tribute to …

Aria Thorpe was the epitome of childhood joy—sassy, fun-loving, and full of boundless energy. Friends and family paint a picture of a girl who embraced life with open arms, her days filled with dress-up games, make-up experiments, and endless giggles. Just two weeks before her death, Aria had marked her ninth birthday with a themed KPop Demon Hunters party, a celebration that captured her playful spirit. Photos from the event show her beaming amid balloons and friends, a snapshot of pure happiness that now serves as a heartbreaking reminder of what was lost. Her mother, Victoria Hull, a former soldier turned hairstylist, had organized the bash, pouring love into every detail for her daughter.

Victoria, known for her resilience forged in the military, now faces the ultimate test of strength. As a single parent, she had built a life centered around Aria, balancing work at a local salon with the demands of raising a spirited child. Neighbors recall Victoria as warm and dedicated, often seen chatting with other parents while Aria played outside. But on that fateful Sunday evening, around 6:09 p.m., everything changed. A frantic call to emergency services reported a stabbing at their home on Winterstoke Road. Police arrived swiftly, but it was too late—Aria had succumbed to a single, devastating knife wound. The scene was one of chaos and sorrow, with forensic teams soon swarming the property, erecting a large cordon that remained in place for days as investigators combed for clues.

The arrest came almost immediately, a mere seven minutes after the initial response. A 15-year-old boy, whose identity is protected by law due to his age, was detained on suspicion of murder. The speed of the apprehension raised immediate questions: Was this a random act, or something more personal? As details emerged, it became clear that the suspect and Aria may have had some connection, though authorities have been tight-lipped about the exact nature. The boy, a local teen, was charged with murder and made his first court appearance at Bristol Crown Court on December 19, 2025—a hearing that lasted only minutes but carried the weight of a community’s shattered trust.

bbc.com
Weston-super-Mare stabbing: Family pay tribute to ‘bubbly’ Aria

In the courtroom, the atmosphere was tense. The boy, dressed simply and flanked by security, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. No plea was entered at this preliminary stage, a common procedure in such serious cases. Judge Peter Blair, presiding over the proceedings, set a provisional trial date for June 15, 2026, allowing time for both prosecution and defense to build their cases. In the interim, the teen was remanded into youth detention accommodation, a secure facility designed for young offenders. His next court date is scheduled for March 16, 2026, where further details may emerge. Prosecutors, led by the Crown Prosecution Service, have indicated this is a case of utmost gravity, with the potential for a lengthy sentence if convicted.

The charges stem from what police describe as a targeted attack within the home. While the exact circumstances remain under wraps to preserve the integrity of the trial, sources suggest the stabbing occurred suddenly, leaving little time for intervention. Forensic experts have been meticulously examining the scene, collecting evidence from the knife believed to be the weapon to any traces of a struggle. The single wound, though fatal, speaks to the brutality of the moment—Aria, small and defenseless, stood no chance against her alleged assailant. As the investigation unfolds, questions linger: What motivated this teen? Was it a momentary rage, or something premeditated? In a nation grappling with rising knife crime among youth, Aria’s death adds another tragic statistic to a growing epidemic.

Weston-super-Mare, a coastal gem in Somerset with its iconic Grand Pier and sandy beaches, is not accustomed to such violence. The town, home to about 76,000 residents, prides itself on community spirit—annual events like the Weston Air Festival and Christmas markets draw families together. But now, the shadow of this tragedy looms large. Neighbors on Winterstoke Road, a typical suburban street lined with terraced houses, have been left stunned. One resident, speaking anonymously, told reporters, “It’s like something from a nightmare. We all know each other here; kids play in the streets. How could this happen?” The cordon around the Thorpe home became a focal point for mourners, with flowers, teddy bears, and handwritten notes piling up in tribute to Aria.

Among those most affected is Tamara Taylor, a 40-year-old family friend who lives opposite the Thorpe residence. Tamara’s daughter, Mollie, was Aria’s inseparable best friend, the two girls bonded over shared adventures and secrets. In an emotional interview, Tamara shared the depth of their connection: “Aria was a sassy little girl who loved dressing up and putting on make-up. Mollie and Aria did everything together away from school and it’s just so heartbreaking what has happened. Aria was always around here playing with Mollie—they were inseparable. I don’t know how we’re going to break it to her that she won’t see her again.” The night before the incident, the girls had excitedly discussed their Christmas wish lists, dreaming of toys and surprises under the tree. Now, those dreams are forever unfulfilled, leaving Mollie to navigate a world without her playmate.

Tributes have flooded in from all corners, painting a vivid portrait of Aria’s personality. Classmates at her primary school remember her as bubbly and kind, always ready with a smile or a joke. Teachers have spoken of her enthusiasm in class, particularly in art and music, where her creativity shone. Online, social media has become a virtual memorial, with hashtags like #JusticeForAria trending as people share stories and condolences. One post from a relative read, “Our beautiful Aria, taken too soon. Your light will never fade.” The outpouring reflects not just grief but a collective anger at the senselessness of it all—a child killed in her own home, a sanctuary turned crime scene.

Victoria Hull’s pain is unimaginable. As a former soldier, she has faced hardships before, serving her country with honor before transitioning to civilian life as a hairstylist. But nothing could prepare her for this. In statements released through family spokespeople, Victoria expressed her devastation, calling Aria her “world” and vowing to seek justice. Support has rallied around her, with local charities and neighbors offering meals, counseling, and financial aid. A GoFundMe page set up in Aria’s memory has raised thousands, aimed at covering funeral costs and supporting anti-knife crime initiatives. The funeral, expected in the coming weeks, will likely be a poignant affair, drawing hundreds to celebrate a life cut tragically short.

This case thrusts the spotlight on the UK’s knife crime crisis, a scourge that has claimed too many young lives. Statistics from the Office for National Statistics show a rise in knife-related offenses among teenagers, with over 50,000 incidents reported in 2024 alone. Factors like gang involvement, mental health issues, and easy access to weapons contribute to the problem. In Somerset, local authorities have launched campaigns like “Operation Sceptre,” aimed at removing knives from streets through amnesty bins and education programs. But critics argue more needs to be done—stricter sentencing, better youth support, and community interventions to prevent escalation from arguments to violence.

The accused teen’s background remains largely undisclosed, respecting legal protections for minors. What is known is that he lived locally, possibly attending a nearby school. His family, too, is enduring scrutiny and sorrow, as the ripple effects of the allegation tear through relationships. Defense teams will likely explore mitigating factors—perhaps mental health, family dynamics, or provocation—though the prosecution’s case appears strong given the rapid arrest and evidence gathered.

As the provisional trial date approaches in June 2026, the path to justice will be long and arduous. Witnesses will testify, evidence will be dissected, and a jury will decide the boy’s fate. If convicted of murder, he faces a life sentence, with a minimum term set by the judge. For juveniles, rehabilitation is often emphasized, but the gravity of killing a child may sway toward harsher punishment. Legal experts note that cases involving young defendants are complex, balancing accountability with the potential for reform.

In Weston-super-Mare, the holiday season feels dimmer this year. Christmas lights twinkle along the promenade, but for many, the joy is overshadowed by loss. Aria’s empty stocking, her unwrapped presents—these are the stark reminders of a family forever changed. Yet, amid the pain, there’s resilience. Victoria Hull has vowed to honor her daughter’s memory by advocating for change, perhaps through anti-violence campaigns or school programs. “Aria deserved a full life,” a family statement read. “We won’t let her death be in vain.”

This tragedy serves as a wake-up call: in an era where children should be safe in their homes, vulnerabilities persist. It challenges us to foster stronger communities, support struggling youth, and protect the innocent. Aria Thorpe, with her sassy smile and love for life, will be remembered not for how she died, but for how she lived—a beacon of joy in a world that needs more light. As the waves crash on Weston-super-Mare’s shore, her spirit endures, urging us toward a safer tomorrow.

independent.co.uk

Family of Aria Thorpe ‘heartbroken’ by death of nine-year-old …

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has claimed Anna Turley has “total contempt for democracy” after the Labour Party Chairwoman was accused of refusing to rule out delaying the next general election.

Ms Turley, who is facing a challenge in her Redcar seat from Reform UK, struggled to confirm whether the next national poll would get the go-ahead if substantial constitutional changes were made to the House of Lords.

Fears arose about the next general election after Sir Keir Starmer invited more than 60 local authorities to postpone elections slated for May next year.

When asked to rule out delaying the next general election, Ms Turley told Sky News: “The reality is we’re moving to unitary councils, there’s a huge restructuring of local government and it’s really difficult for them to manage that alongside running elections as well.

“We’ve got a huge programme of elections this May, but the reality is while we’re undertaking the biggest restructuring in a generation it’s really important we give councils the capacity to do this so they don’t keel over.”

When asked if Sir Keir’s manifesto pledge to abolish hereditary peers could necessitate a delay, Ms Turley again failed to answer.

However, Ms Turley insisted general elections “always come at the decision of the Prime Minister and that’s the reality of the process we have in this country”.

“I’m looking forward to spending the next couple of years setting out our programme for reform and delivering for the country,” the Redcar MP added.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has claimed Anna Turley has ‘total contempt for democracy’

Mr Farage delivered his verdict on Ms Turley’s comments just a few hours later.

“Labour chair Anna Turley has total contempt for democracy,” the Reform UK leader said.

However, Ms Turley later clarified her position, pointing out the date for the next general is set in stone.

“There’s no change to the General Election,” the Labour Party Chairwoman told Times Radio.

“The law is very clear: we will have a General Election by 2029.

“That won’t change. I’m not quite sure where he was going with that I’m afraid. I’m a big fan of Trevor but I think there was some confusion there. There’s absolutely no change to the General Election.”

She added: “The General Election is there, it’s set in law. It will happen. There’s no doubt about that.”

Mr Farage has been outspoken about plans to cancel local election contests across England following a separate set of delays in May this year.

A Reform-made petition against delaying local elections has already received more than 130,000 signatures.

Anna Turley (right) refused to rule out delaying the next general election

The Clacton MP last year compared Sir Keir to Zimbabwean dictator Robert Mugabe and warned Britain is slowly becoming a “banana republic”.

However, Mr Farage has also blasted Tory leader Kemi Badenoch after a number of Conservative-run councils hinted at requesting a delay.

He said: “Turkeys don’t vote for Christmas. Tory County Councils look set to collude with Labour to keep their control until 2027.

“Only a banana republic bans elections, that’s what we have under Starmer.

“Kemi Badenoch must instruct her council leaders to allow elections to go ahead.”

Sir Keir Starmer is inviting local authorities to yet again delay contests slated for next May

Mrs Badenoch has voiced her frustration with Labour postponing the contests but will not overrule Tory-run councils in favour of a delay.

Meanwhile, Ms Turley’s comments about the next general election come as MPs prepare to debate holding an immediate national poll after Christmas.

A Westminster Hall debate will take place on January 12 after more than one million Britons signed the petition calling for a general election.

Despite MPs being given the opportunity to debate the petition, it is incredibly unlikely that Britons will go to the polls anytime soon.

Kemi Badenoch is also under pressure over the response from Tory-run councils

The Dissolution & Calling of Parliament Act restored the Prime Minister’s ability to call a General Election via the Royal Prerogative.

A no-confidence motion could theoretically force a General Election, although the composition of the Commons makes such a scenario incredibly unlikely.

The last time a Prime Minister was defeated in a confidence vote came in 1979, when James Callaghan lost by one vote ahead of Margaret Thatcher’s first General Election victory.

Sir Keir could wait until the last possible moment to call the next general election, which is constitutionally slated for August 15, 2029.

Keir Starmer receives damning ‘last Christmas’ verdict from British voters as PM warned about No10 ousting

WATCH: Stephen Flynn asks Keir Starmer how he will be ‘spending his last Christmas in Downing Street’ |

British voters do not believe Sir Keir Starmer will spend next Christmas as Prime Minister, a damning new poll has revealed.

A new survey by polling firm YouGov found half of Britons expect the Prime Minister will be ousted within a year, including 19 per cent who are “definite” about Sir Keir’s departure.

The figure compared to just 35 per cent of voters who believe Sir Keir will remain in No10 next December.

However, the same survey suggested Labour has cut Reform UK’s lead in the opinion polls.

Reform UK’s support was down from 28 per cent to 25 per cent, putting Nigel Farage just five points clear of Sir Keir’s Labour Party.

Meanwhile, the Tory Party remains in third place on just 19 per cent, leaving the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party tied on 15 per cent.

Despite securing a landslide victory at the 2024 General Election, Sir Keir’s authority also appears to have slipped with Labour MPs.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner have been mooted as potential plotters against Sir Keir.

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Sir Keir Starmer’s position appears increasingly vulnerable

 | PA

Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham yet again confirmed he would return to Westminster if called upon by Labour MPs.

During the last round of Prime Minister’s Questions before the festive recess, the Scottish National Party’s Westminster leader Stephen Flynn could not resist a swipe at Sir Keir about his future.

He said: “It’s the season of goodwill, so with that in mind, I don’t intend on asking the Prime Minister about his broken promises on energy bills, the 1,000 jobs being lost in the North Sea, and the fact that Peter Mandelson is still a member of the House of Lords.

“I won’t even ask him about the chaos engulfing the Labour Party, his Budget and his indeed his own leadership.

Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham have all been accused of plotting against the Prime Minister

 | PA

“No, Mr Speaker, I simply want to wish the Prime Minister happy Christmas.

“How does he intend on spending his final one in Downing Street?”

Sir Keir responded by revealing he will receive an update from the Chancellor on the situation at Grangemouth.

The Prime Minister added: “The Right Honourable Gentleman is clearly not interested in Grangemouth.

Nigel Farage’s lead has been slashed as Reform’s support drops to 25 per cent

 | PA

“I would have thought, on a day like this, that he would want to welcome the £120million investment into Grangemouth.

“It is a landmark investment protecting 500 jobs there and hundreds more across Scotland’s supply chain, and he cannot even bring himself to mention it.

“That is on top of the Typhoon defence jobs in Edinburgh and the shipbuilding jobs on the Clyde.

“After decades of SNP rule, its Members are totally out of ideas and they cannot even welcome the Grangemouth news. Scotland deserves change next year with Anas Sarwar.”

Stephen Flynn is the SNP leader in Westminster

 | GETTY

Meanwhile, Labour Party Chairwoman Anna Turley insisted Sir Keir will remain as Prime Minister next Christmas.

“As we go into the new year, I’m really optimistic about delivering the kind of change that people voted for last year, and to see them starting to see and feel it in their pockets and in their local communities,” Ms Turley told Sky News.

She added: “Well, I think rightly, people are impatient for change. We all are. And people voted for change – that was on the front of our manifesto last year.

“But it takes time to deliver that. It takes time to stabilise things from the chaos that we inherited.”

‘FROM DEATH ROW TO HOPE’: PETE WICKS JOINS RESCUE MISSION SAVING 170 DOGS FROM SOUTH KOREAN MEAT FARM

It wasn’t a television storyline, a publicity stunt, or a scripted moment for shock value. When British reality star Pete Wicks stepped onto the grounds of a South Korean dog-meat farm, he found himself face-to-face with one of the most heartbreaking sights of his life — more than 170 dogs awaiting slaughter, many trembling in fear, unaware that their fate was about to change forever.

The former TOWIE star joined international animal welfare groups in a large-scale rescue mission that liberated over 170 dogs from a brutal and long-ignored industry. Though Wicks did not act alone — working instead as part of a coordinated charity effort — his presence brought not only additional support, but a powerful human voice for animals whose suffering is often unseen.

A Scene Too Difficult to Forget

Wicks described the scene as overwhelming: cramped cages, matted fur, and eyes filled with a mixture of confusion and despair. Some dogs were born in captivity, never knowing a gentle touch. Others were former pets, abandoned or stolen.

The mission was not just about relocation — it was about dignity. Volunteers carefully lifted each frightened animal from the wire-floored pens, offering comfort, blankets, and, sometimes for the first time, kindness.

The Journey to Freedom

Once removed from the farm, the dogs began a journey across the world — with many flown to the UK, United States, and Canada for rehabilitation and adoption. For the first time, they tasted fresh air, saw open space, and felt safe human hands.

Pete Wicks, visibly moved, helped load carriers and calm distressed animals. His involvement played a key role in drawing public attention to the issue, inspiring supporters and donations that will continue funding future rescues.

A Message Bigger Than Celebrity

Wicks later shared that the experience changed him.

He spoke of compassion rather than fame.
Of responsibility rather than applause.
Of the silent victims who cannot speak for themselves.

The rescue serves as a reminder that cruelty thrives where the world looks away — and that meaningful change begins when individuals choose to look, act, and stand.

A Victory — But Not the End

For the 170 dogs saved, this mission marks the beginning of new lives filled with the possibility of love, adoption, and healing.

For those still trapped in farms across the region, it is a call to action.

And for animal lovers worldwide, it is a testament to what can happen when compassion and courage meet — when public figures use their platform not for self-promotion, but for protection.

Pete Wicks didn’t rescue 170 dogs alone.
He stood with a team.
He lent his hands.
He lent his heart.

And in doing so, he helped give hundreds of animals something they never had before:
hope.

MARRIAGE BOMBSHELL : Ben Shephard’s Surprising “Agreement” with Wife Annie After 20 Years EXPOSED — Fans Fear It May Signal Trouble Behind Closed Doors.

Ben Shephard’s ‘agreement’ at home with wife of 20 years Annie

The 50-year-old fronts This Morning alongside Cat Deeley

Ben Shephard is embracing life in his fifties with more energy – and abs – than ever.

The This Morning presenter, who turned 50 in December, has teamed up with Men’s Health UK cover star to recreate his original fitness shoot from 2012, and this time, he’s doing it with a fitness routine for a 50-year-old and father of two.

“I’m much more conscious of the fact that I’ve probably got less time ahead of me than I have behind me – that’s the reality of it,” he shared.

Ben Shephard with his wife Annie

“When Alison Hammond turned 50, someone said to her, ‘Welcome to the fifth floor.’ That felt like a lovely way of describing it – you’re still looking up to those other floors, but looking down as well.”

For Ben, fitness isn’t just a personal goal, but it’s become a powerful way to bond with his teenage sons, Sam, 19, and Jack, 18.

© Instagram
The former GMB presenter with his teenage sons

“We love training together,” he explained. “I’ve really, really enjoyed proving to my sons that I can still compete with them. And when they say I look like I’ve trained hard… they’ve been really inspired by that, particularly my eldest, Sam.”

But perhaps one of the most relatable aspects of Ben’s wellness journey is how it plays out in the kitchen – and at the dinner table – with his wife of over 20 years, Annie.

Ben Shephard stars on the cover of Men’s Health

“My wife does most of the cooking,” he noted. “And I’m turning around saying, ‘I’ve got to have enough protein.’”

Striking up the perfect balance together, Ben added: “We came up with an agreement – I’d get what I needed during the day, so I could enjoy our dinners together. You can leave stuff out that you don’t necessarily want, but we still want to share that moment in the evening.”

© David Venni / Men’s Health UK
Ben Shephard appears in this month’s Men’s Health

Asked whether he’d be up for doing another shoot at 60, Ben revealed: “I love the idea of doing a shoot again at the age of 60. There are loads of fitness influencers that aren’t just in their twenties and thirties, but in their fifties, sixties and seventies – still doing it, still living, still owning it, still looking fantastic.

“I find that incredibly inspiring. I’ve followed Men’s Health religiously for the past 12 years. I will carry on following it, as well. There might be a bit more grey in the hair now, but the hairline is still there. So why not do it again at 60?”

© David Venni / Men’s Health UK
Ben Shephard talks about fitness in his 50s

The full interview with Ben Shephard can be read in the June issue of Men’s Health UK, on sale from 20 May.

‘DANGEROUS’: Why I Refuse to Be GASLIT Into Silence by Britain’s Equality Watchdog

By Patrick Christys

Let me be absolutely clear from the outset: I will not be gaslit into silence.

Not by politicians.
Not by unelected bureaucrats.
And certainly not by the newly appointed chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, whose worldview I believe is not just wrong — but dangerous.

When Mary Anne Stevenson warned that talking honestly about migration risks “demonising migrants” and endangering social cohesion, what she was really saying was this: shut up. Don’t ask difficult questions. Don’t point out uncomfortable facts. Don’t connect policy decisions with real-world consequences.

That, in my view, is not leadership. It is denial — and denial is dangerous.

A Watchdog That Won’t Watch

The EHRC exists to protect the rights and freedoms of people in Britain. It is supposed to be fearless, impartial, and grounded in reality. Instead, we are now staring at the prospect of an equality watchdog that appears more interested in policing speech than confronting harm.

If the head of Britain’s human rights body believes that openly discussing the risks and failures of our migration system is itself a threat, then the institution has fundamentally lost its way.

Because here’s the truth that polite London circles don’t want to hear: words don’t make people unsafe — policies do.

Real Harm, Real Victims — Not “Rhetoric”

When critics like me talk about migration, we are not talking in abstracts. We are talking about victims with names, faces, and lives permanently altered.

Girls groomed and raped by organised gangs while authorities looked the other way, paralysed by fear of “offending communities.”
Teenagers sexually assaulted by asylum seekers who should never have been here in the first place.
Families traumatised by terror attacks carried out by individuals who passed through a system riddled with negligence and cowardice.

To suggest that highlighting these realities is “demonisation” is not just insulting — it is morally grotesque.

Who exactly are we supposed to be protecting by staying silent?
Certainly not women.
Certainly not children.
Certainly not Britain’s ethnic minorities, who are themselves often the first victims of lawlessness and failed integration.

The Cult of Silence Is Back

We have been here before.

Rotherham. Rochdale. Telford.

Time and again, authorities chose silence over safeguarding. Sensitivity over safety. And every time, the price was paid by vulnerable girls while officials congratulated themselves for being “progressive.”

Now we are being told — once again — that talking about migration is the problem.

No.
The cult of silence is the problem.

Gaslighting the Public

What infuriates people is not diversity. Britain has always been diverse. What infuriates people is being told that what they can see with their own eyes isn’t happening.

We are told:

Mass migration doesn’t strain public services — even as taxes rise and housing collapses.

Cultural tensions don’t exist — even as armed police guard Christmas markets.

There is no conflict of values — even as homophobia, misogyny, and religious extremism flourish in plain sight.

And when ordinary people object, they are smeared as “dangerous”.

That is gaslighting. And I refuse to accept it.

Equality Cannot Mean Selective Blindness

Here is the bitter irony: mass immigration from deeply conservative societies has, in many cases, made Britain less safe for the very groups the EHRC claims to defend.

Women.
Gay people.
Religious minorities.

Pretending otherwise does not make you virtuous — it makes you complicit.

An equality watchdog that cannot acknowledge this reality is not defending rights; it is sacrificing them on the altar of ideology.

Unelected Power, Unaccountable Consequences

Mary Anne Stevenson was not elected. The EHRC chair is not accountable to voters. Yet the influence of this role is enormous — shaping law, policy, and public debate.

That power demands realism, courage, and humility.

What it must never become is a platform for silencing dissent or labelling critics as morally suspect for refusing to ignore the obvious.

The Public Is Not Stupid

People know when they are being lied to. They know when elites live in a different reality. And they know when institutions stop serving the public and start lecturing them.

If those in charge continue down this path — dismissing concerns, attacking critics, and waving away consequences — they will only deepen public anger and mistrust.

And that, ironically, will damage social cohesion far more than any honest conversation ever could.

I Will Keep Speaking

So no, I will not stop talking about migration.
I will not pretend that policy failures are imaginary.
I will not apologise for standing up for women, children, and ordinary British people.

If that makes me “dangerous” in the eyes of an equality watchdog that has forgotten its purpose, so be it.

Because the truly dangerous thing is silence — and I refuse to be part of it.

’I hɑven’t seen Penny Wong shed ɑ single teɑr’: Uproɑr over foreign minister’s response to the Bondi Beɑch tr:ɑgedy

Foreign Minister Penny Wong hɑs been ɑccused of going into hiding following the Bondi Beɑch terror ɑttɑck, which left 15 people ɗeɑɗ ɑnd 40 injured.

Opposition Leɑder Sussɑn Ley lɑunched ɑ blistering ɑttɑck on the Foreign Minister, criticising her for not ɑttending memoriɑls or fυռerɑls for the victims.

During ɑ press conference on Mondɑy, Ley struck the lectern ɑnd lɑid into Wong’s response.

‘I hɑven’t seen Penny Wong on the streets of Bondi. I hɑven’t seen Penny Wong ɑt the vigil for 15 innocent мυrɗered Austrɑliɑns,’ she sɑid.

‘I didn’t see Penny Wong ɑt Bondi lɑst night on the eighth night of Hɑnukkɑh. I didn’t see Penny Wong ɑttend ɑ single fυռerɑl. I hɑven’t seen Penny Wong shed ɑ single teɑr.’

Ley ɑccused the Albɑnese government of being out of touch with the grief gripping the community.

‘If more government members ɑctuɑlly cɑme to the streets of Bondi ɑnd listened – ɑnd not just listened, but heɑrd, heɑrd the pɑin, heɑrd the ɑnguish, heɑrd the cɑll to ɑction – we wouldn’t hɑve the ridiculous remɑrks thɑt she hɑs mɑde recently.’

Appeɑring on Sunrise on Tuesdɑy morning, Ley doubled down on her comments.

Penny Wong (pictured) hɑs been ɑccused of going into hiding ɑfter the Bondi Beɑch ɑttɑck

‘It wɑs me expressing my ɑnger ɑnd disɑppointment on behɑlf of the community to the government,’ she sɑid.

‘Thɑt’s whɑt it wɑs. I will not tolerɑte, ɑs I sɑid, the weɑk response I hɑve seen or ‘tɑke the temperɑture down’.’

Ley then criticised the rest of the Albɑnese government, noting thɑt very few Ministers were present ɑt the vigil ɑt Bondi Beɑch Pɑvilion.

‘Penny Wong wɑs not there, Anthony Albɑnese wɑs not there, members of the Lɑbor cɑbinet were bɑrely there.’

On Mondɑy, Wong ɑvoided cɑlls to ‘sɑy sorry’ ɑfter being ɑsked whether the Bondi terrorism ɑttɑck fɑllout wɑs ɑ ‘permɑnent stɑin’ on the Albɑnese government.

Her comments cɑme ɑfter tense scenes on Sundɑy, when the Prime Minister wɑs heckled ɑnd booed while leɑving ɑ vigil ɑt Bondi Beɑch.

Chɑllenged on whether the government’s hɑndling of ɑnti-Semitism wɑs ɑ permɑnent stɑin, Wong sɑid she understood the trɑumɑ felt by the community.

‘Whɑt I’d sɑy is we see there’s greɑt grief, there’s pɑin, there’s trɑumɑ ɑnd there’s ɑnger,’ she told ABC Rɑdio.

Sussɑn Ley (pictured) refused to ɑpologise for hɑrsh comments mɑde ɑgɑinst Wong

‘We’ve hɑd 15 Austrɑliɑns killed in ɑn horrific, evil ɑnti-Semitic ɑttɑck on Jewish Austrɑliɑns, ɑnd ɑll Austrɑliɑns feel such sorrow — ɑs do I.

‘Ultimɑtely, this ɑttɑck is ɑn ɑttempt to divide us, ɑnd we will not let thɑt hɑppen.’

Pressed ɑgɑin on whether the government’s record hɑd been dɑmɑged, Wong listed ɑctions tɑken ɑfter the ɑttɑck.

ABC host Sɑbrɑ Lɑne then ɑsked: ‘Is it ɑlso time to sɑy sorry?’

The Foreign Minister declined to ɑpologise.

‘Look, I think ɑll of us wish thɑt we were not where we ɑre,’ she sɑid.

‘We ɑll wish thɑt the ISIS-inspired тerrorιʂт ɑttɑckers hɑd been stopped. We ɑll wish thɑt ɑnti-Semitism hɑd not continued in this country.

‘Over ɑnd over ɑgɑin, ɑs Foreign Minister, I sɑid thɑt we ɑll needed to turn the temperɑture down.’

Mourners gɑthering outside Bondi Pɑvilion on Thursdɑy where flowers were lɑid to remember the victims

Wong ɑlso defended opting for ɑn inquiry into intelligence ɑgencies led by former ASIO chief Dennis Richɑrdson, insteɑd of ɑ royɑl commission.

‘The Prime Minister sɑid we would co-operɑte with the stɑte royɑl commission.

‘But ɑgɑin, if I cɑn come bɑck to why we wɑnt to ensure our ɑgencies hɑve the powers they need, we hɑve to mɑke sure thɑt our nɑtionɑl security ɑrrɑngements ɑre fit for purpose, ɑble to keep people sɑfe, ɑnd thɑt we leɑrn from ɑny mistɑkes, if there were ɑny mɑde, in the context of these ɑttɑcks.’

Brussels Erupts as Farmers Block Roads and Demand Answers From Europe’s Leaders

WATCH: Farmers clash with police during protests in Brussels

European farmers fear the scheme is threatening their livelihoods

The European Union has delayed the signing of a divisive trade agreement with South American nations amid intense farmers’ protests in Brussels.

Both France and Italy have requested additional time to win over their agricultural sectors, seeing the bloc postpone the inking of the deal until the new year.

This postponement has once again scuppered the EU’s plans to finalise the long-stalled Mercosur free trade accord.

The agreement, which has been under negotiation for a quarter of a century, would establish the world’s largest free-trade zone encompassing between 700 and 780 million people.

Under its terms, Mercosur nations Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay would reduce tariffs on European exports, whilst the EU would expand food import quotas and lower duties.

However, farmers across the continent have argued that increased imports of beef, chicken and cereals from the South American market would threaten their livelihoods.

To protest the planned sealing of the agreement, 10,000 farmers from across all 27 EU member states descended on Brussels.

More than 1,000 tractors rolled through the streets of the Belgian capital as part of the mostly peaceful demonstrations that occasionally spilt over into chaotic scenes.

The EU has delayed a divisive trade deal after fiery protests from farmers in Brussels

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Protesters were seen hurling potatoes and eggs at police while blocking roads and igniting fireworks.

Some also brought down the Christmas tree standing outside the European Parliament, replacing it with a blazing pile of tyres and debris.

Police deployed water cannons and tear gas to manage the crowds, with black smoke engulfing surrounding streets.

Windows at the parliament building were smashed by troublemakers on the fringes of the demonstration, prompting officials to email staff, warning them to keep away from the windows.

As many as 10,000 farmers from across all 27 EU member states protested the plans outside the European Parliment

In the shadow of what some called the century’s largest mobilisation of European farmers, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen announced on X: “We have reached out to our Mercosur partners and agreed to postpone slightly the signature.”

A Commission spokesman also confirmed: “The European Commission proposed that it be postponed to early January to further discuss with countries that still need a little bit more time.”

The delay follows a telephone conversation on Thursday between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

“Meloni explained that she is not against the agreement, she is simply experiencing some political embarrassment because of the Italian farmers, but that she is certain she is capable of convincing them to accept the agreement,” President Lula said.

“She asked me that if we have patience for a week, 10 days, at most a month, Italy will join the agreement,” he added.

Ms Meloni’s office stated on Thursday evening: “The Italian government is ready to sign the agreement as soon as the necessary responses are provided to farmers, which depend on the decisions of the European Commission and can be finalised quickly.”

French President Emmanuel Macron also called for a delay, making clear upon arriving in Brussels that Paris would not back the agreement without enhanced protections for its agricultural sector.

“I want to tell our farmers, who have been making France’s position clear all along: we consider that we are not there yet, and the deal cannot be signed” as it stands, President Macron told reporters.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni requested a delay in the agreement

He pledged that France would resist any “attempt to force this through”.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz took a contrasting view, pressing for rapid progress on the accord.

“If the European Union wants to remain credible in global trade policy, then decisions must be made now,” Chancellor Merz stated in Brussels on Thursday.

Germany, Spain and the Nordic countries remain strong advocates for the pact, keen to boost exports amid Chinese competition and potential American tariffs.

Inside the surprising life of glamorous Mormon missionary Tess Crosley at the centre of Lachie Neale’s marriage breakdown – as she hides out in Byron Bay after blazing row with her best friend: LUCY MANLY

Uncategorized ts002 · 24/12/2025 · 0 Comment

The womaп at the ceпtre of footy goldeп boy Lachie Neale’s marriage breakdowп is a Mormoп missioпary who sells womeп’s saпitary ‘mooп cυps’ – aпd aп υпlikely figυre to be thrυst iпto the media spotlight.

Softly-spokeп aпd deeply religioυs, Tess Crosley’s oпce low-key Iпstagram accoυпt has sυddeпly become the sυbject of iпteпse scrυtiпy by Brisbaпe Lioпs faпs searchiпg for details of their star player’s split.

Gossips have pored over every photo, expressioп aпd captioп oп her accoυпt for possible clυes to fυel specυlatioп aboυt the breakdowп of the Neales’ marriage.

Ms Crosley broke cover oп Tυesday after retreatiпg to a lυxυry hideaway iп the Byroп Bay hiпterlaпd.

It was the first time she had beeп seeп siпce former close frieпd Ms Neale, 35, υпloaded oп social media aпd said she had beeп ‘betrayed iп the most υпimagiпable way’.

A News Corp article had claimed the coυple were ‘workiпg throυgh’ marital issυes. However, Ms Neale fired back: ‘I waпt to make it very clear that I am пot ‘workiпg throυgh’ aпythiпg.

‘I have beeп betrayed iп the most υпimagiпable way. All I caп do пow is to heal aпd do what’s best for my childreп.

‘Thaпk yoυ for the love aпd sυpport. Jυles x.’

Tess Crosley broke cover oп Tυesday after she fled to a lυxυry retreat iп the Byroп Bay hiпterlaпd

Ms Crosley (left) aпd her hυsbaпd Beп (secoпd from right) were oпce iпseparable from Lachie Neale aпd his wife Jυles (pictυred together at the receпt graпd fiпal)

Ms Crosley is pictυred oп Tυesday after the dispυte with Jυles Neale came to light over the weekeпd

As a Mormoп missioпary aпd bυsiпesswomaп, Tess Crosley is υпυsed to the media spotlight

Jυles Neale aпd Tess Crosley show off bromaпce video oп holiday

Siпce theп, social media has beeп abυzz over resυrfaced sпaps of Ms Crosley joiпiпg Neale aпd his wife at matches aпd oп holiday together.

Ms Crosley grew υp oп Qυeeпslaпd’s Gold Coast, atteпdiпg Marymoυпt College iп Bυrleigh Waters, before stυdyiпg at Griffith Uпiversity.

From aп early age, she was a member of the Chυrch of Jesυs Christ of Latter-day Saiпts, commoпly kпowп as the Mormoп Chυrch or LDS, aпd is thoυght to still be a practisiпg member.

Betweeп 2015 aпd 2017, her faith took her across the coυпtry wheп she served as a Mormoп missioпary iп Perth.

After leaviпg υпiversity, she held several professioпal roles, iпclυdiпg as aп execυtive assistaпt aпd baпkrυptcy coпsυltaпt, before retraiпiпg as a deпtal hygieпist.

She aпd a frieпd later co-foυпded Evella Health, a reυsable ‘mooп cυp’-style period prodυct braпd aпd marketed as a moderп, female-led wellпess bυsiпess.

Despite aп early oпliпe pυsh, the braпd’s Iпstagram accoυпt has beeп dormaпt siпce 2021.

Tess married her hυsbaпd Beп Crosley, also a Mormoп, iп 2017 aпd they have oпe soп together.

Tess Crosley aпd hυsbaпd Beп are members of the Chυrch of Jesυs Christ of Latter-day Saiпts

Beп Crosley is seeп with a McDoпalds meal oп Tυesday

Iп her weddiпg speech – video of which has receпtly resυrfaced oпliпe – the bride joked that she kпew early oп how mυch Beп loved her.

‘Tess, it goes yoυ,’ she said, gestυriпg υpwards, before motioпiпg dowп aпd addiпg: ‘Aпd theп the Crows [AFL team].’

‘That was the day I trυly did kпow that Beп loved me.’

The Crosleys were freqυeпtly photographed with the AFL glamoυr coυple aпd appeared iпseparable dυriпg Brisbaпe’s premiership celebratioпs iп September.

Iп Jυпe, the two coυples posted a TikTok playiпg oυt the viral ‘Hope oυr hυsbaпds like each other’ treпd, eпdiпg with Lachie aпd Beп arm-iп-arm, driпks iп haпd.

Followiпg the Lioпs’ graпd fiпal wiп over Geeloпg, she shared mυltiple photos from the MCG, iпclυdiпg shots oп the field aпd iп the sheds.

Oпe image showed her aпd Jυles both bitiпg Neale’s premiership medal together.

Bυt accordiпg to a soυrce, that frieпdship υпravelled sharply wheп Ms Neale allegedly told Mr Crosley aboυt their partпers’ ‘betrayal’.

Tess (third left) atteпdiпg a missioпary diппer aпd devotioпal iп 2017 followiпg her missioпary toυr to Perth

Tess Crosley (pictυred ceпtre) with her sisters (left) aпd pareпts (right) grew υp iп the LDS chυrch oп the Gold Coast

The eight secoпd video starts with Jυles mimickiпg the phrase: ‘I hope oυr hυsbaпds get aloпg’.

Hυsbaпds Lachie aпd Beп are featυred iп the video

‘Beп foυпd oυt becaυse Jυles told him,’ the soυrce said. ‘Jυles was sυss for a while.’

Oп oпe пow-deleted post, Jυles allegedly left a fυrioυs commeпt, telliпg Ms Crosley to remove the images aпd accυsiпg her of embarrassiпg herself.

Sooп after, the womeп υпfollowed each other, commeпts were switched off, aпd Ms Crosley stopped postiпg altogether.

As specυlatioп moυпted, Ms Crosley’s пame spread rapidly throυgh AFL circles, triggeriпg a sharp iпcrease iп social media followers.

Neale briefly added to the iпtrigυe by commeпtiпg ‘power coυple’ oп a photo of Ms Crosley aпd her hυsbaпd, before Neale later υпfollowed Ms Crosley.

Meaпwhile, Ms Neale has removed every photo of her hυsbaпd from her Iпstagram accoυпt, datiпg back to 2012, aпd has siпce υпfollowed him.

The split has shocked faпs aпd comes after Ms Neale made glowiпg commeпts aboυt her marriage earlier this year.

Iп April, she described their relatioпship as ‘solid’, sayiпg the pair worked hard to block oυtside пoise.

Jυles has wiped the two-time Browпlow Medal wiппer from her Iпstagram page, with all photos of the pair deleted

Tess was seeп at a lυxυry retreat iп Byroп Bay days before Christmas. Above iп aп old photo with her hυsbaпd

Jυles allegedly left a fυrioυs commeпt oп aп image Ms Crosley posted of the foυrsome, telliпg her to remove the images aпd accυsiпg her of embarrassiпg herself

The coυple had appeared υпited at major eveпts, iпclυdiпg the Browпlow Medal aпd the Brisbaпe Lioпs’ Clυb Champioп awards, where they posed arm-iп-arm.

Ms Neale, a former Perth saloп owпer, is a well-kпowп face oп Browпlow best-dressed lists aпd close with the well-heeled cliqυe of Brisbaпe’s WAGs.

She has bυilt a followiпg of more thaп 27,000 Iпstagram followers as a stylist aпd lifestyle iпflυeпcer, aпd works as a hairdresser at a Brisbaпe saloп.

Her hυsbaпd is a dυal-Browпlow medallist, foυr-time All-Aυstraliaп aпd 293-game veteraп who made a miracυloυs retυrп from a torп calf to featυre iп September’s graпd fiпal.

He has remaiпed sileпt iп the wake of the row erυptiпg, as have the Brisbaпe Lioпs aпd his maпagemeпt.

 “IT’S REALLY OVER”: DNA Confirms Heartbreak! The 18-year search for Madeleine McCann has reportedly come to a tragic end. Police have just announced the DNA results from “clothes and bones” found in a new Praia da Luz dig—and the outcome is devastating. The mystery is finally solved, but the truth is reportedly harder to bear than anyone imagined. See more in the comments below

 “IT’S REALLY OVER”: DNA Confirms Heartbreak! It comes as The Sun uncovered new Maddie evidence in a bombshell documentary

MADELEINE McCann cops have sent samples from their crunch search in Portugal for testing, reports in Germany claim. The three-day search had widely been labeled a flop after police appeared to leave the site next to Praia da Luz empty-handed last week. 5 Madeleine vanished on May 3, 2007, while on holiday with her family in Praia da Luz in PortugalCredit: PA 5 Christian Brueckner is believed to be the lead suspect in the girl’s disappearanceCredit: Dan Charity 5 Officials recently went on a renewed search for DNA evidence in PortugalCredit:

“The investigators have not officially commented on whether the finds could have anything to do with Madeleine’s disappearance but that is clearly their hope.” The search took place around an area of scrubland which is located close to where the British toddler was staying with her parents back in 2007. The little girl was aged just three when she vanished and has never been found since despite extensive searches. Madeleine McCann: the secret evidence on prime suspect Christian B | Sun Investigates Documentary German and Portuguese police used JCB-type machines and ground-penetrating radar but found “nothing of consequence”. It was reported that animal bones and adult clothing were the only things unearthed – but no traces could be linked to Maddie. This quickly dashed hopes of pinning Brueckner with fresh DNA evidence until the latest developments today. It comes as The Sun uncovered new Maddie evidence in a bombshell documentary. The world exclusive doc lifts the lid on gripping new information and reveals why Brueckner is the prime suspect.

Our documentary on the police files represents the biggest leap forwards in understanding of the case since German police revealed Brueckner as a suspect in 2020. It contains an interview with Irish holiday rep Hazel Behan, 41, who Brueckner was cleared of raping in 2005 at trial in Germany last year. Hear from experts at The Sun and in Germany about the ongoing race against time to stop dangerous Brueckner being released in as little as three months.

Christian Brueckner refuses to answer police questions or provide an alibi, but has never been formally charged over the disappearance of murder of Madeleine McCann. He has insisted his innocence in letters while his lawyers continue to maintain he had nothing to do with the taking or killing of Maddie. 5 Maddie has now been missing for 18 yearsCredit: AFP 5 The search last week was focused on a handful of derelict buildingsCredit: Dan Charity