ABC has yet to officially renew it, but fans hope to see another Golden Bachelorette season. Joan Vassos hinted that a star from Bravo’s RHONY will be the next lead as ABC moves the franchise in a different direction. Keep reading to find out all the details.

Joan Vassos Shares Update On Chock Chapple Relationship

‘Golden Bachelorette’ Joan Vassos/Credit: YouTube
She was given another chance and fell for Chock Chapple, the President of an insurance company in Wichita, Kansas. Despite being engaged for over a year, the couple hasn’t made any moves to live together or marry. She still lives in Maryland. However, the couple reunite often in New York City, where they rent an apartment, or in their respective hometowns.

The long-distance relationship may seem odd, but Chock Chapple told Us Weekly that it works for them. “We’re still learning [about each other]. In all honesty, you still learn about someone a year later, and it’s been very enjoyable,” he said.

Joan Vassos Implies RHONY Star Will Be Next Golden Bachelorette

Joan Vassos really wants another woman in her golden years to get a chance to find love on the Bachelor Nation franchise. During her chat with Us Weekly, she shared her thoughts on the future of the franchise. While Mel Owens, who recently found love on The Golden Bachelor, wants one of his rejected contestants in the role, Joan Vassos predicted the network will go in a different direction.

‘Golden Bachelorette’ Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple/Credit: Instagram
ABC recently made a big change by casting the next Bachelorette from someone outside the franchise. They chose TikTok influencer Taylor Frankie Paul for Season 22. Joan Vassos said she thinks ABC will go outside the franchise to find the next Golden Bachelorette, too.

“Golden is hard. From what I understand, it’s hard to find men, So there’s a lot of us women out here that are in our 60s and 70s that are looking for companionship and our person, and they have a much harder time finding men,” she explained.

Joan Vassos recalled rumors about who might be the Golden Bachelorette before she was chosen. She remembered hearing rumblings that Luann de Lesseps was in the running. The RHONY alum is known as “The Countess” despite divorcing Count Alexandre de Lesseps in 2009. She was briefly married to Tom D’Agostino Jr. but they divorced after a year of marriage.

Luann de Lesseps was featured in a Us Weekly cover story earlier this month. She shared her thoughts on being the next Golden Bachelorette. The RHONY alum said, “H***, yeah, I’d love to; that would be great. Throw those boys at me, I’m ready!”

ABC hasn’t revealed any plans for a second season of The Golden Bachelorette. Tell us in the comments what you think about Luann de Lesseps as the next lead.

Britain’s farming sector has been hit by an unprecedented wave of closures, with 6,270 agriculture, forestry and fishing businesses shutting down since Rachel Reeves unveiled her inheritance tax changes on agricultural assets.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, spanning the 12 months from October 2024 when the policy was first announced, represent the highest closure rate ever recorded in the sector

The data also revealed that fewer people are willing to start new farming ventures following the tax announcement.

Only 3,225 new businesses launched in the sector during the four quarters to September, meaning a net loss of 3,045 farms – the fastest shrinkage rate on record.

Britain’s farming sector has been hit by an unprecedented wave of closures

 

Sir Keir Starmer was forced into a significant U-turn on Tuesday after rural communities pushed back hard against the policy.

When the Chancellor first announced the changes, farming assets worth more than £1million would face a 20 per cent inheritance tax from 2027.

But ministers have now raised that threshold to £2.5million.

The major shift that means couples can hand down farming estates worth up to £5million to their children without paying any inheritance tax.

Sir Keir Starmer was forced into a significant U-turn on Tuesday

The Government has argued the original policy was designed to stop wealthy landowners converting estates into farms purely to dodge inheritance tax.

Farming trade bodies warned at the time it would tear apart family farms.

For some farmers, however, the revised policy arrived far too late. John Charlesworth took his own life just one day before Labour’s tax changes were originally announced.

His 70-acre family farm near Barnsley, Yorkshire, is valued at £2million and would have fallen entirely within the new exemption threshold.

Britain’s farming sector is contracting at an unprecedented rate

 

His son Jonathan told The Telegraph: “If we’d known that, if it had been this [£2.5million threshold], he would definitely, definitely still be here.”

According to Government estimates, the increased threshold will reduce the number of farms affected by the tax in 2027 from 375 to 185, with approximately 85 per cent of estates now protected.

Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith warned that the harm inflicted on the agricultural sector could not be undone.

“Even with the belated partial about-turn, a great deal of damage has been done with closures across the sector which cannot be reversed,” he said.

Andrew Griffith warned that the harm inflicted on the agricultural sector could not be undone

 

“This Government doesn’t understand business, and it certainly doesn’t ‘get’ the countryside.”

The policy reversal will also substantially diminish the Treasury’s expected revenue.

When modifications to agricultural and business property relief were initially announced in 2024, officials projected receipts of £520million.

That figure is now forecast to fall to just £300million annually by the decade’s end.

BREAKING NEWS  Pauline Hanson Furious as She Blasts Labor Party and Anthony Albanese After Australian Media Reports Special Forces Police Intercepted a Vehicle Near Bondi Beach, Arresting Seven Men and Possibly Discovering a Gun

In a stunning escalation of political tension, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has unleashed a blistering attack on the Labor Party and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following reports of a high-stakes police operation near Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach.

Australian media outlets revealed that special forces police intercepted a suspicious vehicle, leading to the arrest of seven men and the potential discovery of a firearm.

What has sent shockwaves through the nation is the revelation that these individuals were part of a group repatriated to Australia under Albanese’s watch—without undergoing any prior security vetting.

Hanson, never one to mince words, accused the government of endangering Australian lives for political gain, questioning, “How much money did he take to do this? A bunch of bastards pushing the people down the path to death!”

This incident, unfolding on December 18, 2025, has reignited fierce debates over immigration policies, national security, and the competence of the Albanese administration. As details emerge, critics argue that this near-miss exposes the perilous flaws in Labor’s approach to repatriation amid global conflicts.

Albanese’s government has been under fire for facilitating the return of Australians from war-torn regions, including the Middle East, without stringent background checks. Proponents claim it’s a humanitarian effort, but detractors like Hanson see it as a reckless gamble with public safety.

 

The operation began when elite tactical units from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and New South Wales Police Force received intelligence about a vehicle exhibiting erratic behavior near Bondi Beach. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the  car speeding along the coastal road before being boxed in by unmarked vehicles.

Bodycam footage, leaked to select media, shows officers swarming the scene, detaining seven men of Middle Eastern appearance. Initial reports suggest a handgun was found concealed in the vehicle’s trunk, though authorities have yet to confirm if it was loaded or linked to any planned attack.

The arrests were swift and without incident, but the implications are profound.

What elevates this from a routine bust to a national scandal is the background of the detainees. Sources within the Department of Home Affairs confirm that at least four of the seven were repatriated Australians who had been stranded in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Albanese’s government, in a bid to appear compassionate on the international stage, expedited their return in late 2024 without the mandatory security screenings typically required for individuals from high-risk zones. This decision, critics say, bypassed protocols established post-9/11 to prevent radicalized elements from infiltrating the country.

Pauline Hanson, speaking from her Brisbane office, didn’t hold back in her condemnation. In a fiery press conference streamed live on social media, she lambasted Albanese personally: “This is what happens when you put virtue-signaling ahead of Australian lives.

Anthony Albanese has blood on his hands if this had gone further.

These blokes waltz back in without a single check— no ASIO vetting, no interviews, nothing! And now they’re caught with a gun near one of our busiest beaches? How much money did he take to do this? Is it kickbacks from foreign lobbies or just sheer incompetence? A bunch of bastards in Canberra pushing everyday Aussies down the path to death while they sip lattes in their ivory towers.”

Hanson’s rhetoric, while inflammatory, resonates with a segment of the population frustrated by what they perceive as lax border controls. Her One Nation party has long advocated for stricter immigration measures, arguing that unchecked repatriation invites terrorism.

This incident comes on the heels of similar controversies, including the 2024 release of detainees from immigration detention centers following a High Court ruling, which led to several high-profile crimes. Albanese defended that move as upholding human rights, but opponents point to it as evidence of systemic failure.

To understand the depth of this criticism, one must delve into the policy framework under Albanese. Since taking office in 2022, the Labor government has prioritized humanitarian repatriation, particularly for dual citizens caught in overseas conflicts.

In the case of Gaza evacuees, over 200 individuals were flown back on chartered flights funded by taxpayers. While many were innocent families fleeing violence, intelligence reports—leaked by whistleblowers—suggested that some had ties to militant groups.
Family games
Yet, due to diplomatic pressures and a desire to align with international allies like the United States, security checks were waived or fast-tracked.

Experts in counter-terrorism have weighed in, amplifying the chorus of disapproval. Dr. Elena Vasquez, a security analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, stated, “This is a textbook case of policy over prudence. Repatriating individuals from conflict zones without thorough vetting is like playing Russian roulette with national security.

Albanese’s administration has prioritized optics—looking good on the world stage—over the safety of Australians. If a gun was indeed found, we narrowly avoided another tragedy like the Lindt Café siege.”

The Lindt Café reference is apt. In 2014, a lone gunman with a history of extremism held hostages in Sydney’s CBD, resulting in deaths. That event prompted a overhaul of anti-terror laws, including enhanced monitoring of repatriated citizens.

Under Albanese, however, funding for ASIO and AFP has been criticized as insufficient, with budget cuts redirecting resources to climate initiatives and social welfare. Hanson seized on this: “While Albanese is busy hugging trees and handing out welfare cheques, our cops are outgunned and under-resourced.

These repatriated radicals know it too—they’re exploiting the weaknesses he’s created.”

Public reaction has been polarized. Social media erupted with hashtags like #AlbaneseFail and #SecureOurBorders trending nationwide. A poll conducted by YouGov immediately after the arrests showed 58% of respondents believing the government bears responsibility for the incident.

In contrast, Labor supporters argue that Hanson is fear-mongering, pointing out that no attack occurred and that the arrests demonstrate the effectiveness of current intelligence operations.

Yet, the timing couldn’t be worse for Albanese. With federal elections looming in 2026, this scandal threatens to erode his already fragile approval ratings, which have dipped below 40% amid economic woes and housing crises.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has echoed Hanson’s sentiments, calling for an independent inquiry into the repatriation program. “Australians deserve answers,” Dutton said in Parliament. “How many more potential threats has this government let slip through the net?”

Delving deeper, the repatriation policy’s origins trace back to Albanese’s 2023 commitment at the United Nations to assist in global humanitarian efforts. In partnership with the Biden administration, Australia agreed to accept evacuees from Gaza, Syria, and Afghanistan. While noble in intent, implementation has been marred by bureaucratic shortcuts.

Internal memos, obtained through Freedom of Information requests, reveal that Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil overruled security advisors on multiple occasions to expedite processes, citing “urgent humanitarian needs.”

Critics argue this reflects a broader pattern of Albanese’s leadership: prioritizing progressive ideals over pragmatic governance. From the Voice to Parliament referendum’s failure to mishandled COVID-19 border closures, his tenure has been dogged by accusations of naivety.

Hanson, positioning herself as the voice of the “forgotten Australians,” has capitalized on this discontent. Her party’s support has surged in regional areas, where fears of urban terrorism loom large.

The Bondi incident also raises questions about community safety in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Bondi Beach, a tourist hotspot, has seen increased patrols since the 2024 stabbing attack at Westfield Bondi Junction, which claimed six lives.

Locals are now demanding answers: Why were these men not monitored upon arrival? What intelligence led to the interception? And crucially, was this part of a larger plot?

In response, Albanese’s office issued a statement emphasizing that “all repatriations are conducted with the utmost care for national security.” The PM himself addressed the nation in a press briefing: “We will not let isolated incidents divide us.

Our agencies acted decisively, preventing any harm.” But such platitudes ring hollow to many, especially as Hanson counters with, “Isolated? This is the tip of the iceberg. Albanese’s open-door policy is inviting disaster.”

As investigations continue, the AFP has charged the seven men with possession of a prohibited weapon and conspiracy-related offenses. Their court appearances are scheduled for next week, where more details may emerge. Meanwhile, calls for Albanese’s resignation grow louder from conservative quarters.

This episode underscores a fundamental divide in Australian politics: compassion versus caution. While Albanese champions inclusivity, critics like Hanson argue it’s at the expense of safety.

As one voter in Bondi told me, “We want to help people, but not if it means risking our own families.” Whether this incident marks a turning point remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Anthony Albanese’s leadership is under siege, and Pauline Hanson’s unfiltered fury has struck a nerve.
Family games
In the end, Australians must ask themselves: How much longer can we afford a government that gambles with our security? Hanson’s words may be harsh, but in the wake of this near-catastrophe, they demand reflection.

The path to death, as she puts it, is paved with good intentions—and perhaps, as she alleges, a few illicit incentives.

 Chaos on the French Coast: Furious Locals Cross a Dangerous Line as Migrant Boat Crisis Reaches Breaking Point

British vigilantes slash small migrant boats on French coastline

Britons have been filming themselves travelling to beaches in France and ‘destroying’ small   boats – gaining thousands of views in the process

Sanya Burgess is an award-winning journalist whose investigations have included revealing Deliveroo was not paying the living wage to all riders, despite the company’s pledge to do so. She has also tracked disinformation and far right hate speech in the UK during the Southport riots, conspiracy theories about the attempted shooting of Donald Trump and revealed that Elon Musk was paying some of Tommy Robinson’s legal fees. She has also worked on issues relating to Big Tech and underage gambling, as well as uncovering war crimes and human rights abuses in Iran, Myanmar and the UAE – including the ‘hostage’ tapes of the detained Dubai Princess Latifa.

British vigilantes who spearheaded efforts to fly England flags across the country have launched a new anti-migrant protest – attempting to block illegal Channel crossings.

Using the term “Operation Stop The Boats”, members of the group have been filming themselves slashing small boats before they are used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France.

Posts on social media show members calling for other British men to join them in France, including making a direct appeal to football hooligans, saying “we need to make a stand”.

In one video message shared this week by a member of the Raise the Colours group – the grassroots movement that has seen flags fixed to lampposts, motorway bridges and roundabouts across England – two men are seen evoking military language and the spirit of the British fight against the Nazis in the Second World War.

Claiming to be recording from the northern French coast, one said: “Just like in the 1940s, we must take a stand, and it starts with the men of England and Britain.”

Making an appeal to “firms” – a phrase that refers to football hooligan groups – the other man added: “Our country is doing nothing. Weak government, weaker borders.

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”
The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
Online TV streaming services

The Government is under pressure to tackle the issue of migration amid a record number of asylum applications, surging small   boat crossings and protests at hotels housing asylum seekers.

On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out a package of reforms to asylum policies aimed at tackling illegal migration, telling MPs the current situation is “out of control and unfair”.

The latest videos shared by those linked to the Raise the Colours group have separately been referred to as “Operation Overlord”.

Earlier clips showed two men saying they were taking matters of illegal migration into their own hands and filming themselves stamping on and smashing a small boat’s engine.

In the clips, they refer to themselves as “patriots” and make a number of claims without evidence, such as that they are stopping “rapists and murderers” from “coming to a town near you”.
One video shared by the group (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/nstagram)
The flag-raising group, who have a combined 100,000 followers on X and Instagram, also posted a plea on X for donations last week, writing that they are: “STOPPING The   Boats, whether the migrants or government like it or not!”

Two videos from the group have recently been shared to the 1.7 million X followers of Tommy Robinson. The far-right figure and former leader of the English Defence League, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has previously been accused of mobilising football hooligan firms in an attempt to launch anti-Muslim rallies across the country.

Separately, French media reports that the Dunkirk Public Prosecutor’s office has opened a preliminary investigation into “aggravated violence” against migrants by suspected British far-right figures.

One of the details being examined by the French prosecutor is the claim that in September, four men waving British and UK flags verbally and physically attacked migrants on the French coast. It is alleged that they told the migrants they were not welcome in England and proceeded to steal some of their belongings.

The men are not the first anti-migrant figures to travel to France in a bid to take matters into their own hands.

In September, Ukip, Nigel Farage’s former political party, posted a video to their X account showing what appeared to be sleeping migrants in France being woken by people flashing strobe lights in their faces and shouting at them.

Nick Tenconi, Ukip’s current leader, also posted a video captioned: “In Calais hunting for illegal invaders trying to cross into Britain.”

The Home Office and French authorities were contacted for comment.

SHOCKING TURNAROUND! Reform UK SNATCHES By‑Election Victory ɑs Lɑbour COLLAPSES 

WATCH: Francesca O’Brien calls for GB News Senedd ban to be lifted after Caerphilly by-election

 | GB NEWS

Another busy week of by-elections has seen both the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK gain seats, while Labour and the Conservatives continued their torrid slump

The Liberal Democrats boast two holds, along with a gain from the Conservatives, while Reform also managed to bag another seat.

 

It leaves Reform in the driving seat having an aggregate result of 61 (+52) since the 2025 Local Elections, while the Liberal Democrats continue to chase their tails with an aggregate result of 53 (+18).

It remains bleak reading for the Conservatives, who sit on 18 (-21), and even more so for Labour on 14 (-41).

With that being said, GB News takes a closer look at this week’s five by-election results.

Tudor (Watford)

Liberal Democrats held on to their seat in the Tudor ward of Watford with an increased margin, as Callum Robertson emerged victorious.

The by-election was called after Councillor Charlott Saunders, elected in May 2023, was unable to attend council meetings for over six months for “personal reasons”.

Cllr Robertson said: “I’m humbled by the result. Thank you to every resident who put their trust in me and the Liberal Democrat team.

Liberal Democrats held on to their seat in Watford with Callum Robertson

 | WATFORD LIBERAL DEMOCRATS

Nunthorpe (Middlesbrough)

Up north in Middlesbrough, Reform UK recorded a major win, with Joanne Rush emerging victorious.

She snatched the seat from the Liberal Democrats to become the party’s first-ever Middlesbrough councillor.

The by-election had been called after the shock resignation of Councillor Morgan McClintock.

Cllr Rush posted on Facebook following the victory: “I just want to say the biggest thank you to every single person who put their trust in me and lent me your vote. Because of you, we won.

“I am genuinely overwhelmed and so grateful. Every conversation on the doorstep, every message, every bit of support over these last few weeks has meant the world. You placed your confidence in me, and I will work every single day to repay that trust. I am ready to get started and be the voice Nunthorpe deserves.”

Joanne Rush became Reform UK’s first-ever Middlesbrough councillor in the Nunthorpe ward

 | MIDDLESBROUGH COUNCIL

Winkleigh (Torridge)

In the Winkleigh ward of Torridge, Liberal Democrats gained yet another seat from the Conservatives, with Stephan Thomas Middleton emerging victorious.

The by-election was called after Councillor Simon Newton’s resignation due to relocation.

Taking to social media to celebrate his success, Cllr Middleton said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me with this campaign, your support has been amazing.

“I’d also like to thank my family for being by my side. I am ready to serve our community and tackle the issues that effect us all!!!”

Stephan Thomas Middleton won his by-election third time around, nicking a seat from the Conservatives

 | FACEBOOK

Stapleford South East (Broxtowe)

Next, in Nottinghamshire, Sarah Camplin won for the Broxtowe Alliance, taking the seat from Labour.

The by-election was called after the death of Councillor Ross Bofinger in August.

The Broxtowe Alliance took to Facebook to celebrate their victory: “To the people of Stapleford South East a massive THANK YOU! We won. We won well. Congratulations to Sarah Camplin.”

Full list of Stapleford South East (Broxtowe) results:

Broxtowe Alliance – 34.6 per cent (New)
Reform UK – 21.9 per cent (New)
Liberal Democrats – 13.3 per cent (-10.6)
Labour – 11.4 per cent (-17.6)
Conservative – 9.6 per cent (-11.6)
Independent – 9.2 per cent (New)

Exmouth Halsdon (East Devon)

Finally, Fran McElhone held the Liberal Democrat seat of Exmouth Halsdon in East Devon, marking an impressive achievement: their 12th victory in Devon this year, from 12 attempts.

Ed Tyldesley, County Councillor for Chulmleigh and Landkey, said: “In 2025, we’ve seen 12 District Council by-elections and the full Devon County Council elections in May.
“The Liberal Democrats have won every single contest in the county of Devon in 2025. Every. single. one.”
The by-election was called after Councillor Andrew Toye died in September.
Full list of Exmouth Halsdon (East Devon) results:

Liberal Democrats – 35.9 per cent (-4.0)
Reform UK – 28.5 per cent (New)
Conservatives – 25.6 per cent (-4.1)
Greens – 10.0 per cent (New)

“YOU’RE NOT WELCOME HERE!” A furious landlord has barred Rachel Reeves from her local pub, igniting a firestorm after the reason behind the ban was revealed.

 

Rɑchel Reeves hɑs been bɑrred from her locɑl pub becɑuse of her crippling tɑx rises bringing the hospitɑlity industry to its knees

Lɑndlord Mɑrtin Knowles hɑs told the Chɑncellor not to try to enjoy ɑ festive pint in the Mɑrsh Inn in her Leeds constituency ɑfter he wɑs hit with ɑ £2,500 hike in business rɑtes.

The Chɑncellor posed with Mr Knowles in his pub lɑst July, soon ɑfter she took over ɑt the Treɑsury following Lɑbour’s election victory, but now the publicɑn hɑs put up ɑ sign mɑking cleɑr thɑt ɑll Lɑbour MPs, including Ms Reeves, ɑre not welcome on his premises.

He sɑid: ‘I thought I’d bɑn them ɑll, including the locɑl MP, ɑs they ɑre not doing our industry ɑny fɑvours ɑt ɑll. Our clientele seem quite hɑppy with the bɑn.’

Spirɑlling Nɑtionɑl Insurɑnce cσsts ɑnd ɑ hike in the minimum wɑge imposed by Ms Reeves hɑve ɑlso helped drive hundreds of pubs to the brink.

Despite the crippling effect of her tɑx rises ɑcross the economy, the Chɑncellor this weekend declɑred thɑt she could not rule out further tɑx rises in 2026.

Hospitɑlity bosses hɑve borne the brunt of her policies, especiɑlly business rɑte hikes which will see ɑ typicɑl pub’s tɑxes doubling by 2029.

Neɑrly three pubs ɑ week went bust in the six months to October – ɑn 85 per cent increɑse on the sɑme period in 2024 – ɑnd it hɑs been estimɑted thɑt ɑ further 2,000 could be forced to close next yeɑr unless the Gσverпment chɑnges course.

Rɑchel Reeves (centre) hɑs been bɑnned from her locɑl pub the Mɑrsh Inn by lɑndlord Mɑrtin Knowles (left)

Mr Knowles (pictured gesturing to ɑ ‘No Lɑbour MPs’ sign) bɑrred the Lɑbour Chɑncellor ɑfter he wɑs hit with ɑ £2,500 hike in business rɑtes

Ms Reeves visited the pub lɑst July, soon ɑfter she took over ɑt the Treɑsury following Lɑbour’s election victory

Mr Knowles sɑid thɑt if Ms Reeves wɑs to be ɑllowed bɑck into his pub, she needed to lower VAT ɑnd PAYE, stop increɑsing the minimum wɑge ɑnd stop business rɑtes going ‘through the roof’.

He joins hundreds of lɑndlords ɑcross the country bɑnning Lɑbour MPs over the dɑmɑge they ɑre wreɑking to their business.

Among them ɑre   presenter Jeremy Clɑrkson who displɑys the ‘No Lɑbour MPs’ sign ɑt his Cotswolds pub The Fɑrmer’s Dog.

He hɑs explɑined: ‘Our ɑnnuɑl business rɑtes hɑve gone up ɑstronomicɑlly from something like £28,000 to well over £50,000. It is ɑ disgrɑce.’

Shɑdow Business Secretɑry Andrew Griffith sɑid on Sɑturdɑy night: ‘Business rɑtes hikes ɑre hɑmmering pubs with eye-wɑtering increɑses. It is no wonder Rɑchel Reeves is bɑrred from her locɑl.

‘Lɑbour doesn’t understɑnd businesses. They should undo these punishing chɑnges before they drive the Greɑt British pub to extinction.’

Mr Knowles’ wife Melɑnie confirmed thɑt Ms Reeves ‘won’t get through the door ɑgɑin’ ɑdding: ‘Every single dɑy is ɑ struggle for us. Other people ɑre shutting the doors on these plɑces ɑnd throwing the keys bɑck becɑuse they cɑn’t mɑke ɑ living ɑny more. They’re not even breɑking even.

‘It’s down to the cσst of living, too, becɑuse customers ɑre struggling ɑnd where is the first plɑce thɑt you cut down? Sociɑlising. It’s becɑuse the Lɑbour Gσverпment hɑve mɑde everything so expensive for people to do.’

Ms Reeves wɑs ɑlso pictured enjoying ɑ pub lunch ɑt The Britɑnniɑ pub in her constituency lɑst yeɑr – ɑnd they too hɑve cɑlled on her to ‘chɑnge course ɑnd support pubs rɑther thɑn tɑxing them to ɗeɑтh’ in ɑ post on sociɑl mediɑ.

Emmɑ McClɑrkin, CEO of the British Beer ɑnd Pub Associɑtion, sɑid: ‘New sky-high business rɑtes hɑve left mɑny publicɑns ɑt their wits’ end ɑnd could threɑten the very existence of mɑny pubs ɑcross the country.’

Dɑwn Hopkins, vice-chɑir of the Cɑmpɑign for Pubs, ɑdded: ‘The Gσverпment is in complete deniɑl over the impɑct their business rɑtes betrɑyɑl will hɑve on pubs.

The Mɑrsh Inn, in Pudsey, Leeds now hɑs ɑ sign up which mɑkes cleɑr thɑt ɑll Lɑbour MPs ɑre not welcome

Ms Reeves wɑs ɑlso pictured enjoying ɑ pub lunch ɑt The Britɑnniɑ pub in her constituency lɑst yeɑr – they too hɑve cɑlled on her to ‘chɑnge course ɑnd support pubs rɑther thɑn tɑxing them to ɗeɑтh’ in ɑ post on sociɑl mediɑ

‘They promised lower business rɑtes, yet insteɑd pubs will be hit with ɑ huge hike next April ɑnd completely unsustɑinɑble Ƅill levels. This is cleɑrly ɑ broken promise, but it’s ɑlso literɑlly unɑffordɑble for pubs. Unless they wɑnt to be responsible for closures of pubs up ɑnd down the country, the Gσverпment must think ɑgɑin.’

In ɑn interview with the I Pɑper this weekend, Ms Reeves would not promise to eɑse bɑck on the tɑx rises, sɑying: ‘The world is incredibly volɑtile ɑt the moment. It would be wrong to stɑrt writing future Budgets.’

She sɑid only thɑt her policies will ‘hopefully meɑn further chɑnges to tɑx ɑre less necessɑry’.

On Sɑturdɑy night the Treɑsury declined to comment on the Chɑncellor being bɑrred from her locɑl pub, but ɑ spokesmɑn insisted: ‘We’re protecting pubs, restɑurɑnts ɑnd cɑfes with the Budget’s £4.3 Ƅillion support pɑckɑge.

‘This comes on top of our efforts to eɑse licensing to help more venues offer pɑvement drinks ɑnd put on one-off events, mɑintɑining our cut to ɑlcohol duty on drɑught pints, ɑnd cɑpping Corporɑtion Tɑx.’

He sɑid there wɑs ɑlso Gσverпment help to cɑp business rɑte Ƅills for compɑnies fɑcing steep increɑses in their vɑluɑtions.

Additionɑl reporting: Jɑcintɑ Tɑylor

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! favourite Aitch was firmly in festive mode this week as he was spotted stocking up on booze in Manchester ahead of Christmas.

The 25-year-old rapper, whose real name is Harrison James Armstrong, pulled on a bright red Santa hat while popping into a local shop to buy three bottles of Southern Comfort whiskey.

Cutting a laid-back figure in a grey tracksuit and Nike trainers, Aitch also grabbed a Christmas wreath, hinting that he is planning a cosy – and possibly boozy – festive celebration.

I’m A Celeb star Aitch, 25, was well and truly getting into the Christmas spirit while stocking up on booze in Manchester on Tuesday

Despite being one of the breakout stars of this year’s jungle series, the fourth-placed finalist appeared to go largely unnoticed by passers-by as he loaded his shopping into the boot of his £70,000 Porsche.

Aitch narrowly missed out on the crown earlier this month, finishing behind his close friend AngryGinge, who went on to be named King of the Jungle.

The festive shopping trip comes just days after his I’m A Celeb co-star Shona McGarty finally addressed speculation about a possible romance between the pair, following their sweet on-screen bond.

The rapper, real name Harrison James Armstrong, donned a Santa’s hat as he called into a local shop for three bottles of Southern Comfort whiskey

Speaking on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show, the EastEnders actress, 34, laughed off the rumours and insisted the pair are just close friends.

She said: ‘I came out and apparently me and Aitch were in a relationship… He’s great, still my little brother!’

Shona added: ‘He’s so fun to be around, he’s just hyper, and he matched my level of hyper. He hasn’t been round for karaoke yet, but it’s on the cards.’

She had previously opened up about how protective she felt towards the rapper after his shock exit from the jungle, which saw her go on to finish third in the final behind Tom Read Wilson and AngryGinge.

During her exit interview with Ant and Dec, Shona admitted she had been immediately drawn to Aitch.

Explaining why they bonded so quickly, she said: ‘When he came into the jungle, this rapper, he was all giving it this and that, but underneath it all I could tell he was quite scared of the whole experience. He’s very normal, down to earth, and we had a similar upbringing – I felt like an older sister to him. I wanted to protect him.’

His semi-final departure clearly hit her hard, with Shona left visibly shaken after he was voted out.

Speaking in the Bush Telegraph during the final, she said emotionally: ‘I had to say goodbye to Aitch today… just one more day until I see him again.

’

Last week his I’m A Celeb co-star Shona McGarty, 34, opened up about romance rumours surrounding the pair, after sharing several sweet moments in the jungle (pictured on the show)

The comment sparked immediate reaction from fans, with viewers flooding social media to speculate about a possible romance.

One wrote on X: ‘Shona was devastated!’
Another added: ‘The way Aitch & Shona hugged… they are SO SWEET!!’
A third posted: ‘THE AITCH AND SHONA POTENTIAL ROMANCE?! I must know cos they’d be cute af!’

And now, with Aitch back home donning a Santa hat and filling his Porsche with whiskey, fans are left wondering what festive surprises – on or off screen – could be coming next.

Janette Manrara and her husband Aljaz Skorjanec have announced some exciting news(Image: Suzan Moore/PA Wire)

Strictly Come Dancing’s Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara have shared an exciting joint announcement. The couple both worked as professional dancers on the popular BBC programme. In 2021, Janette moved away from her role and it was announced she was becoming the new presenter of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, taking over from Zoe Ball.

Meanwhile, Aljaž is currently partnered with La Voix on this year’s series. The RuPaul’s Drag Race star wowed fans last weekend with a spectacular performance of a paso doble to Beethoven’s The 5th.

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Away from the ballroom, Aljaž and Janette often share family updates and offer glimpses of what their life is like outside of Strictly Come Dancing.

The two met in 2010 at a studio in London and worked on the dance show ‘Burn the Floor’ together. The dancers tied the knot in 2017 after seven years together.

Janette and Aljaž have one child together, daughter Lyra. The presenter welcomed daughter Lyra in July 2023.

Earlier this year, the couple set off on their UK tour with their show “A Night to Remember”. The performances featured a variety of dance styles, accompanied by a live big band.

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They have now announced they are “back” for more, confirming a new tour for next year. A post on Instagram said: “They’re back! Aljaž and Janette are back with a brand new tour for Spring 2026 ‘Let’s Face The Music And Dance!’

“A dazzling tribute to the legendary songwriters, composers and producers whose music has sound tracked our lives, performed live with the incredible Tom Seals & his Big Band, and a supporting cast of the UK’s very best dancers!

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“Expect show stopping routines, timeless tunes, and all the sparkle you’ve been waiting for. Tickets on sale Friday 7th November.”

The tour has 16 dates, including Manchester, Blackpool and York. Fans are excited for the couple to return to the stage, with one user commenting they are “over the moon”.

On Instagram, one fan said: “How exciting” while another said: “Yesss can’t wait.” A third added: “Over the moon yes they are back” and a fourth said: “Amazing”.

Vicky Pattison also commented: “I WANT TO COME.” The reality  TV star is taking part in this year’s competition with professional dancer Kai Widdrington.

Gorka Marquez also added to the comments, sharing round of applause emojis. The Strictly pro is not partnered with a  celebrity this year due to other work commitments. Gorka is a judge on the second series of “Bailando con las estrellas” which is the Spanish version of Strictly Come Dancing.

In a sensational showdown that has sent shockwaves through the UK political landscape, Jeremy Clarkson has unleashed a blistering verbal assault on Labour leader Keir Starmer and his shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves in an interview that is rapidly going viral. The confrontation, broadcast on Monday night, has ignited a maelstrom of reactions across social media as viewers grapple with Clarkson’s scathing critique of the Labour Party and its leadership – a moment that has sparked both fervent support and vehement backlash.

 

From the opening moments of the interview, Clarkson, known for his no-holds-barred style, delivered a visceral takedown of Starmer and Reeves, accusing them of political incompetence and a lack of vision for the future of the UK. The interview wasted no time in veering into contentious territories, with Clarkson condemning Labour’s policies as not only ineffective but dangerously misguided. “You’re talking about a party that seems to have forgotten about the working class,” he declared, launching into a tirade that dissected Labour’s failure to deliver meaningful solutions to soaring living costs and economic stagnation.

As his words ricocheted across Twitter and TikTok, viewers were drawn into the unfolding drama, with many calling it the political moment of the year. “Clarkson just obliterated them!” exclaimed one user, encapsulating the sentiments of countless others who tuned into the exchange. The visceral power of Clarkson’s rhetoric left little doubt that he intended to expose the weaknesses of the opposition in a way that few others would dare. Among the highlights of this high-octane interview was Clarkson’s pointed question: “What is your plan? Do you even have one?”

His direct challenges did not stop there. With an unwavering gaze and an undeniable sense of authority, Clarkson positioned himself as the voice of the disenchanted populace, the very electorate that yearns for genuine leadership and concrete promises. The Labour leaders’ responses, often tripping over their words, compounded the perception that they were ill-equipped to face the pressing issues that plague the nation. “You are out of touch!” Clarkson fired back as Reeves attempted to defend her economic plans. The tension was palpable, and viewers could practically feel the stakes rising with each exchanged word.

As the interview went viral, political analysts immediately began weighing in on its potential implications. Many speculate that Clarkson’s explosive remarks could further tarnish Labour’s image, particularly given that they are attempting to position themselves as a viable alternative ahead of the next general election. Critics have been quick to point out that Starmer and Reeves’ responses seemed to lack the assertiveness and clarity that many voters crave, leaving them vulnerable to the very criticisms Clarkson leveled.

In a surprising twist within the interview, Clarkson also dissected the political narratives that have come to define modern British politics, condemning the way politicking often inches further away from the everyday concerns of families grappling with real-life challenges. Clarkson’s passionate stance seemed to resonate with a public increasingly frustrated by traditional political tactics and empty slogans. His fierce candor challenged the status quo, making an emphatic case for a new direction that resonated with a nationwide audience.

The surge of views and shares on social media platforms is remnant of a political shockwave, highlighted by a storm of memes, shares, and commentary. This provocative discourse comes at a critical juncture, with the electorate growing ever warier and disillusioned with the entrenched parties. Clarkson, now viewed as something of an unlikely political commentator, appears to have struck a chord that reverberates across the UK.

As the political fallout unfolds, the ramifications of this explosive interview will surely be felt in the days, weeks, and months ahead. The Labour Party now faces a daunting task of reclaiming narrative control amid the uproar, while Clarkson’s audacious critique continues to fortify a burgeoning narrative of political change.

Unprecedented times call for unprecedented voices, and Clarkson’s fierce criticism has undeniably plunged the conversation about the future of UK politics into a new and urgent arena. The question now remains: can the Labour Party recover from this brutal dismantling, and will this moment resonate as a turning point in British political discourse? Amid the fray, one thing is for certain: Jeremy Clarkson’s incendiary remarks have sparked a firestorm that the political elite can no longer ignore.

King Charles and Queen Camilla issued urgent Christmas threat

The King and Queen will be spending Christmas in Sandringham.

The King and Queen have been issued with the warning (Image: Getty)

 

King Charles and Queen Camilla will soon be heading to the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk to celebrate the Christmas period with their family. But, even after a very difficult year for the Royal Family, there could be another spanner in the works as union bosses are threatening to deprive the region of fuel supplies over Christmas and New Year.

Drivers have announced their plan to walk out for 15 days between December 22 and January 25 in a dispute over pay.

Also heading to Sandringham are expected to be the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, who stay at their home, Anmer Hall.

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And while he looks set to spend Christmas at Royal Lodge in Windsor, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s next residence – widely reported to be Marsh Farm – is also located on the Estate.

As well as disrupting supplies to Sandringham, the drivers’ strike will also affect schools, Royal Mail refuelling sites, military establishments and hundreds of Gulf Oil petrol stations, the union said.

The King and Queen will spend Christmas at Sandringham (Image: Getty)

As for how the family are expected to celebrate the big day, the Royal Family website reads: “On Christmas Eve, The Royal Family lay out their presents on trestle tables and will exchange their gifts at teatime.”

Speaking to The Express before, royal expert Robert Jobson explained: “On Christmas Eve when all the clan are together, the Queen’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren put the finishing touches to the 20ft Christmas tree in the White Drawing Room. Presents will be opened that day at teatime as the royals still keep to the German practice of opening their gifts on Christmas Eve.

“Gifts are laid out in the Red Drawing Room on a white linen-covered trestle table, with cards marking exactly where the piles of gifts should be put.”

Mr Jobson went on to say that once “everyone has arrived” the family enjoy “a traditional Christmas” which involves the gifting of “cheap and humorous gifts.” He added that the gifts are “unlikely to be pricey”.

A Certas Energy spokesperson said: “Contrary to some inaccurate press reports, Certas Energy confirms that drivers have been offered a generous, above inflation, pay and conditions offer.

“The offer was made in recognition of the important role our fuel delivery drivers play in delivering to our customers across the country. Certas Energy remain engaged with Unite to achieve a swift resolution.

“Customers should be reassured that in the event of industrial strike action, Certas Energy has steps in place to mitigate impact and to minimise any potential disruption to customers.”