BREAKING: Shamima Begum given fresh hope of returning to Britain as European judges challenge the UK government’s decision to strip her of citizenship

Shamima Begum has fresh hope today in her bid to return to Britain after European judges told the UK to justify its stance to strip the ISIS bride of her UK citizenship.

The European Court of Human Rights has formally asked the Home Office whether it broke human rights and anti-trafficking laws – which is Begum’s main legal argument.

Lawyers for the former London schoolgirl hailed the request as an ‘unprecedented opportunity’ because it could unlock a new battle between the UK and Strasbourg.

Begum, who lived in Bethnal Green, was found in a Syrian refugee camp in 2019 after her travel to ISIS-controlled territory in the country as a 15-year-old in 2015.

Her UK citizenship was immediately revoked by then-home secretary Sajid Javid on national security grounds, kickstarting a lengthy legal challenge by Begum.

She lost an appeal in February 2023 against the decision to revoke her citizenship after the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC) ruled this was lawful.

Begum then lost a Court of Appeal bid in February 2024, before she was most recently denied the chance to challenge it at the Supreme Court in August 2024.

However, Begum’s lawyers warned at the time that they could still take her case to the European Court of Human Rights – which they later did.

Shamima Begum, who lived in Bethnal Green, was found in a Syrian refugee camp in 2019

Begum is still living at the al-Roj camp in Hasakah province in northern Syria (pictured in 2021)

Now, the revelation in the Daily Express today of formal communication between the UK and Strasbourg has prompted fears that Begum could eventually return to Britain.

But shadow home secretary Chris Philp tweeted today: ‘Under no circumstances should Shamima Begum be allowed back into the UK. I will raise this case in Parliament on Monday with the Home Secretary.

‘Begum chose to go and support the violent Islamist extremists of Daesh, who murdered opponents, raped thousands of women and girls and threw people off buildings for being gay.

Shamima Begum: From fleeing to Syria to UK citizenship legal battle

February 2015: Shamima Begum leaves Britain to travel to Istanbul, before heading onto Syria with Kadiza Sultana and Amira Abase

February 2019: Begum is tracked down to the al-Hawl refugee camp in northern Syria and says she wants to return to Britain. The Home Office revokes her UK citizenship.

October 2019: Begum begins an appeal against the revocation of her citizenship

February 2020: Begum loses the first stage of a legal challenge at the Special Immigration Appeals Commission (SIAC)

July 2020: The Court of Appeal rules Begum should be allowed to return to the UK to challenge the deprivation of her citizenship

February 2021: The Supreme Court rules Begum should not be allowed to return to the UK to pursue an appeal

February 2023: Begum loses her legal challenge at SIAC

February 2024: Begum loses her challenge at the Court of Appeal

August 2024: Begum is told she cannot challenge the removal of her citizenship at the Supreme Court

December 2025: The European Court of Human Rights formally asks the Home Office to justify its stance

‘She has no place in the UK and our own Supreme Court found that depriving her of citizenship was lawful. It is deeply concerning the European Court of Human Rights is now looking at using the ECHR to make the UK take her back.

‘I have no confidence this Labour government will robustly defend the UK’s interests in this case. What is clearer than ever is that we must leave the ECHR in order to protect our borders. The Conservatives are the only party with a proper plan to do that.’

Shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick also said: ‘Shamima Begum should never step foot on British soil again.  We can’t let a foreign court meddle in our national security.’

Former security minister Sir Ben Wallace, who was involved in the Home Office citizenship deprivation case, told the Express: ‘She went of her own free will to support a cause that doesn’t believe in any Western court.

‘She wasn’t a victim. She knowingly and freely joined ISIS and assisted them in the prosecution of their murderous campaign. She deserved to lose her citizenship.

‘The cheek of her going through a court system that she and the other terrorists would fundamentally want to destroy isn’t lost on anybody. She wanted to go there. She can stay there.’

Begum is still living at the al-Roj camp in northern Syria as her representatives at London-based Birnberg Peirce Solicitors continue to fight her case.

The Home Office has now been told by the European court to answer four questions about her citizenship.

One asks: ‘Has there been a violation of the applicant’s rights under Article 4 of the Convention by virtue of the decision to deprive her of her citizenship?’

Another says: ‘For the purposes of the Article 4 complaints made in the application, was the applicant at all material times within the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom, within the meaning of Article 1 of the Convention?’

Article 1 of the European Convention on Human Rights relates to ‘protection of property’, while Article 4 relates to ‘freedom from slavery and forced labour’.

A further question asks: ‘Did the Secretary of State for the Home Department’s decision to deprive the applicant of her citizenship engage her rights under Article 4 of the Convention?’

A Home Office spokeswoman told the Daily Mail: ‘The Government will always protect the UK and its citizens.

‘That is why Shamima Begum – who posed a national security threat – had her British citizenship revoked and is unable to return to the UK.

Shamima Begum had her British citizenship revoked in 2019 and cannot return to the UK

Shamima Begum passes through barriers at Gatwick Airport in 2015 before fleeing to Syria

‘We will robustly defend any decision made to protect our national security.’

In October, the Government announced that extremists stripped of their British citizenship would no longer be able to regain their status after a successful first appeal as a new law came into force.

Beforehand, a person who the Government considered a threat to national security could have been released from immigration detention or returned to the UK while further appeals to stop them were ongoing.

But the new law closed this loophole so that citizenship cannot be regranted until all appeal proceedings have been completed.

Between 2018 and 2023, an average of 12 people a year were deprived of their citizenship on the grounds it was ‘conducive to the public good’.

This decision is made by the home secretary in serious cases where it is believed to be in the public interest, for reasons such as terrorism or serious organised crime.

SAD NEWS Emma Willis has revealed she secretly underwent surgery after doctors uncovered a terrifying condition she never knew she had. Through it all, Matt Willis never left her side — a powerful reminder of love when it matters most.

SHOCK HEALTH REVEAL: Emma Willis breaks silence after secret heart surgery — as doctors discover a hole she never knew she had and husband Matt ‘never leaves her side’

Emma Willis has revealed she underwent keyhole heart surgery after doctors found a hole in her heart

Emma Willis has revealed she recently underwent keyhole heart surgery after doctors discovered she had been living with a hole in her heart since birth — a diagnosis that came as a complete shock.

The TV presenter, 49, took to Instagram on Wednesday and shared several photos of herself taken in hospital following the procedure (pictured with husband Matt)
The former Big Brother host told fans she discovered she has had a hole in her heart since she was born and so had surgery at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London

The 49-year-old TV presenter shared the news with fans in a deeply emotional Instagram post on Wednesday, alongside a series of hospital photos taken in the aftermath of the procedure.

Emma explained that following medical investigations last year, doctors confirmed the congenital condition — leading to surgery at Royal Brompton Hospital.

‘It feels strange even saying it out loud’

Keyhole heart surgery involves making small incisions in the chest as opposed to the breastbone as in traditonal open heart surgery

In her candid message, the former Big Brother host admitted the experience still feels surreal.

“A few weeks ago, I had keyhole heart surgery — which feels very strange to write, and even stranger when I say it out loud,” she wrote.

The surgeon accesses the heart through the incisions, allowing for a less invasive approach with fewer complications and a faster recovery time

She praised the hospital team who guided her from diagnosis through to surgery, describing them as “absolutely incredible,” before paying a heartfelt tribute to her husband, Matt Willis, who she said “never left my side.”

Living for decades without knowing 

In a lengthy post, Emma thanked her husband Matt and the staff at the Royal Brompton Hospital who looked after her

Emma revealed she had unknowingly lived with the condition for nearly five decades.

“Turns out I’ve been pottering around for 48 years blissfully unaware I had a hole in my heart,” she said.
“Isn’t it bonkers what’s happening in our bodies that we have no idea about?”

She went on to express awe at modern medicine — and the professionals behind it.

Emma and Matt have been together for more than 20 years and they have three children together – Isabelle, 15, Ace, 13, and Trixie, eight (pictured in 2024)

“What blows my mind even more is the wonders of modern medicine, and the spectacular people who save, fix and help us every single day,” she added.
“They are the real superstars.”

‘A spectacular pair of hands’

Emma named and thanked several members of her medical team, singling out her surgeon, Dr Ee Ling Heng, in particular.

“She was recommended to me as ‘a spectacular pair of hands’ — but my God, she’s that and so much more,” Emma wrote.

“She made me feel instantly comfortable while being incredibly professional and informative. I ask a million questions — and she answered them with the patience of a saint.”

Emma added that she knew immediately she was in safe hands.

“I knew as soon as we met that she was the woman I wanted poking around in my heart,” she said.
“Thank you Ee Ling — you’re one in a trillion.”

What is keyhole heart surgery?

Keyhole heart surgery involves small incisions in the chest rather than opening the breastbone, making it a far less invasive alternative to traditional open-heart surgery.

Surgeons access the heart through these incisions, reducing complications and significantly shortening recovery time — an option increasingly used for congenital heart conditions.

A marriage tested — and strengthened

Emma and Matt Willis have been together for more than 20 years and share three children: Isabelle, 15, Ace, 13, and Trixie, eight. The couple married in 2008 and are approaching their 20th wedding anniversary.

Over the years, they have been open about facing challenges, including Matt’s past struggles with drug and alcohol addiction.

More recently, Matt has spoken publicly about how couples therapy helped transform their marriage after they began counselling in 2020.

“We weren’t in trouble,” Matt previously explained. “We just had certain things we couldn’t get past.”

He admitted Emma was initially reluctant but later agreed therapy had been “transformative,” helping them better understand one another and strengthen their bond.

An outpouring of support

Following Emma’s announcement, fans flooded her comments with messages of love, admiration and well wishes — praising her honesty, courage and positivity.

As she continues her recovery, Emma’s story has resonated deeply, reminding many that even the most familiar faces can be quietly fighting unseen battles — and that strength often lies in trust, gratitude and love.

HORROH MOMENT CAUGHT ON CAMERA. The chilling second a ceiling suddenly catches fire inside a packed ski bar — triggering a “hσrrσr mσvie” blaze that killed several dozen people during New Year celebrations in Switzerland

Dozens of people are presumed dead after a fire broke out at a bar in Switzerland during a New Year’s Eve celebration.

An explosion was heard in the basement of Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, a ski resort in Valais, at 1.30am local time before the blaze.

Around 200 people, including minors, were inside the nightclub at the time, according to Swiss news outlet Blick.

The exact death toll is unclear, but officials have said it could be up to 40.

As many as 100 people were also injured, many with severe burns, police chief Frédéric Gisler said at a press conference earlier this morning.

He added that it is ‘probable’ that people of different nationalities were involved in the incident.

At least two were French and none are known to be British nationals, the Foreign Office told Metro.

The ski resort is about 40 miles south of the Swiss capital, Bern (Picture: Metro)
Nine hours after the fire began, hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland were overwhelmed with burn victims, an insider told broadcaster RTS.

The youngest of the 22 burn victims being treated at the University Hospital of Lausanne was 16.

‘We all ran out screaming and running’

The cause of the explosion and resulting fire is unclear but terrorism has been ruled out.

Witnesses have claimed the fire occurred after a waitress put candles on top of champagne bottles, one of which was then held up to the ‘wooden’ ceiling.

French national Emma told French broadcaster BFM: ‘In a matter of seconds, the entire ceiling was ablaze. Everything was made of wood.’

Escape was difficult, locals told Metro, as a ‘stampede’ of dozens of people were trying to get out from the same narrow staircase.

Social media video appeared to show the moment the ceiling went up in flames (Picture: X)

The inside of the bar in the aftermath of the fire (Picture: AP)

An official cause of the blaze has not been revealed (Picture: AP)
A passer-by told the BBC that they broke inside the building to see people ‘burning from head to foot, no clothes anymore’.

Photographs posted to TripAdvisor show that the staircase leading out of the basement nightclub is narrow and appears wooden.

Two other locals told Metro that ‘sparklers’ were behind the blaze.

‘How did this happen? I heard screaming after. People ran out everywhere and then fire engines came,’ one said.

‘It was like a horror movie. People are crying. It’s a disaster.’

One bus driver suggested the inferno was caused by fireworks, which officials had banned over New Year’s, citing fire risks.

Survivors described people struggling to escape the nightclub (Picture: Le Constellation/TripAdvisor)
A resident added: ‘I heard a number of massive bangs which sounded like bombs going off. It was crazy.

‘…We will be in mourning for days. We will never get over this. How did it happen?’

The area around the bar remains closed and a no-fly zone has been imposed over Crans-Montana.

Crans-Montana is a popular destination in the Alps, particularly among British skiers, known for its views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.

Le Constellation, sometimes called the Constellation Bar, has been open since 2015. It can accommodate up to 300 people and a further 40 in its lounge.

According to 20 Minutes, it is owned by a couple from Corsica.

The death toll is largely expected to rise, officials have warned (Picture: 2026 Getty Images)

Police, fire and ambulance services are at the scene (Picture: EPA)

The exact death toll is unclear (Picture: AFP)

A fire was seen on the ground floor of the building (Picture: AFP)
The bar’s social media channels were taken down in the early hours today and it is listed on Google as ‘temporarily closed’.

Swiss president Guy Parmelin wrote on X that he has cancelled his New Year’s engagements.

‘What should have been a moment of joy turned into a night of mourning in Crans-Montana, affecting the whole of Switzerland and abroad,’ he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, said his thoughts are with the ‘bereaved families and the injured’.

Bars and clubs are more vulnerable to fires

Several fires have torn through nightclubs, bars and other similar venues in recent years.

Such entertainment spaces are particularly vulnerable to fire, safety experts say. They can be small and crammed with people unfamiliar with the layout, while alcohol may impair judgement.

Some recent fires include:

March 2025: A fire and resulting stampede at the crowded Pulse club in Kocani, North Macedonia, killed 63 people.

April 2024: Twenty-nine people die after an inferno tore through the Masquerade nightclub in Istanbul, Turkey.

October 2023: A fire erupted in a club in Murcia, Spain, that spread to two other clubs, killing 13 people.

January 2022: Nineteen people died in a fire sparked by two rival gangs scuffling that gutted a nightclub in Sorong, Indonesia.

That same month, a fire killed 17 people after fireworks set the roof of a club in Yaounde, Cameroon.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

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“STRICTLY WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN.” BBC CROWNS Rylan Clark as New Face of the Show — But It’s the SHOCK Partner Reveal That Sent Britain Into TOTAL MELTDOWN Producers stayed silent. Insiders didn’t dare leak it. Then the announcement dropped — and within seconds, social media EXPLODED. Gasps, tears, disbelief… even hardcore Strictly fans admit: “We did NOT see this coming.” One bold decision. One once-in-a-decade twist. And a moment that could change Strictly forever.

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the glittering world of ballroom dancing, the BBC has officially announced Rylan Clark as the new host of *Strictly Come Dancing*, stepping into the formidable shoes left vacant by long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The revelation, dropped like a bombshell during a prime-time special on November 26, 2025, confirms what insiders have been whispering for weeks: the charismatic former *X Factor* star and beloved radio personality will lead the show’s 2026 series. But the real jaw-dropper? His co-host is none other than Emma Willis, the no-nonsense presenter known for her work on *Big Brother* and *The Voice UK*—a choice that has left fans reeling, divided, and utterly surprised.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of Tess and Claudia’s emotional exit, revealed just last month in a joint Instagram video that caught even the show’s insiders off guard. The duo, who have helmed *Strictly* since 2004 and 2014 respectively, cited a desire for more family time and new projects as their reasons for bowing out after the current series wraps. “It’s been an incredible ride, but it’s time to hang up our sequins,” Tess said in the video, her voice cracking with emotion. Claudia, ever the witty counterpart, added, “We’ve laughed, cried, and glitter-bombed our way through two decades. What a sparkle!” Their departure marks the end of an era for the BBC’s flagship entertainment program, which has dazzled audiences with its mix of celebrity glamour, professional prowess, and occasional controversy.

Rylan Clark, 37, is no stranger to the *Strictly* family. Rising to fame on *The X Factor* in 2012, where his larger-than-life personality and infectious energy won over Simon Cowell and the nation, Rylan transitioned seamlessly into presenting. He hosted *Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two* from 2019 to 2023, earning rave reviews for his empathetic interviews and cheeky banter with contestants. Fans remember his heartfelt moments, like consoling tearful dancers after tough critiques or hyping up underdogs before live shows. His departure from *It Takes Two* in 2023 to focus on other ventures, including his BBC Radio 2 show and various  TV gigs, left a void—but now, he’s back in a bigger role than ever.

“Rylan’s the perfect fit,” a BBC insider told us exclusively. “He’s got that sparkle, that warmth, and he knows the show inside out. Plus, he’s adored by the viewers.” Betting odds had pegged him as a frontrunner alongside names like Bill Bailey and Alan Carr, but the official nod still feels like a triumph for the Essex boy done good. Rylan himself reacted with trademark humility and excitement on social media shortly after the announcement: “Pinch me! Hosting *Strictly*? Dream come true. Can’t wait to bring the glitz with my fabulous co-host. Let’s dance!”

But it’s the choice of Emma Willis as his co-host that’s truly raised eyebrows. At 49, Emma brings a wealth of experience from reality TV heavyweights, where her poised demeanor and sharp interviewing skills have made her a household name. Yet, her pairing with Rylan is unexpected—fans had speculated duos like Rylan with Fleur East (who replaced him on *It Takes Two*) or even a solo host shake-up. “Emma? Really?” one fan tweeted in disbelief. “Love her on *Big Brother*, but *Strictly* is all about fun and flair. This feels like a curveball.” Others praised the move: “Fresh energy! Emma’s class and Rylan’s charm—genius combo.”

Sources close to the production reveal that Emma was a last-minute contender, edging out other favorites after impressing in screen tests. “The chemistry was electric,” our insider dished. “Rylan’s bubbly, Emma’s grounded—they balance each other like Tess and Claudia did.” Emma, married to Busted’s Matt Willis and a mother of three, has spoken openly about her love for dance shows. In a past interview, she confessed, “I’d kill to be part of *Strictly*—the glamour, the stories, it’s TV magic.” Her addition signals the BBC’s intent to evolve the format, perhaps injecting more in-depth contestant chats amid the tango and tango.

The shake-up couldn’t come at a more pivotal time for *Strictly*. The 2025 series has been marred by scandals, from judge walkout rumors to contestant injuries, prompting calls for a refresh. Tess and Claudia’s exit, while voluntary, was influenced by the show’s grueling schedule—weekends dominated by live broadcasts, leaving little room for personal life. BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips addressed the changes in a statement: “Tess and Claudia have been the heart of *Strictly*, but we’re thrilled to welcome Rylan and Emma. They’ll honor the legacy while bringing new vibrancy.”

Reactions from the *Strictly* alumni have poured in. Former winner Bill Bailey, who was tipped for the role, tweeted his support: “Rylan? Brilliant choice! And Emma—unexpected but spot on. Can’t wait to watch.” Judge Craig Revel Horwood, known for his acerbic wit, dropped a hint on air last week: “Darlings, big changes ahead—fabulous!” Fans speculate this could mean more judge involvement, perhaps even guest spots.

Rylan’s journey to this pinnacle is a testament to his resilience. After *X Factor*, he navigated personal highs and lows, including his 2021 divorce from Dan Neal and mental health battles, which he shared candidly in his memoir *Ten: The Decade That Changed My Future*. His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health has endeared him to millions, making him more than just a presenter—he’s a role model. “I’ve grown so much,” Rylan reflected in a recent Radio 2 broadcast. “Hosting *Strictly*? It’s full circle.”

Emma, too, brings depth. Her no-frills style contrasts Rylan’s flamboyance, promising dynamic on-screen moments. Imagine her grilling judges on scores while Rylan rallies the crowd—pure entertainment gold. But not everyone’s convinced. A Reddit thread exploded with debates: “Why not keep it in the family? Rylan yes, but Emma feels like a mismatch.” Others worry about gender balance, with two hosts again but a fresh dynamic.

As *Strictly* gears up for 2026, producers promise innovations: more diverse celebrities, interactive viewer votes, and perhaps themed weeks honoring the show’s history. Rylan and Emma’s debut will be scrutinized, but if their past successes are any indication, they’ll waltz through the pressure.

Tess and Claudia’s final bow from Blackpool Tower Ballroom last weekend was tearful, with tributes from stars like Rose Ayling-Ellis and Hamza Yassin. “You’ve been our guiding lights,” Rose signed in a video message. Now, the torch passes to Rylan and Emma—a hot new era for *Strictly*, full of surprises, sequins, and steps into the unknown.

In the end, this announcement isn’t just about hosts; it’s about reinvention. *Strictly Come Dancing* has survived scandals, pandemics, and shifting tastes. With Rylan at the helm and Emma by his side, the show is poised to shine brighter than ever. As Rylan might say: “Keep dancing!”

“YOU ARE MY LIFE.” Sir David Beckham and Victoria Beckham have extended their biggest olive branch yet to estranged son Brooklyn Beckham in an emotional New Year’s Eve tribute

Sir David Beckham has described wife Lady Victoria and their children as his ‘life’ in an emotional address to Instagram followers  – and his absent eldest son.

In what appears to be another attempt to resolve their ongoing estrangement, the former Manchester United and England footballer included Brooklyn Beckham in his latest round-up of family photos on New Year’s Eve.

Brooklyn has been absent from every significant family event over the course of the year, including his father’s milestone 50th birthday celebration and long awaited investiture at Windsor Castle.

The cooking influencer also missed the launch of his mother’s hit Netflix series, while her annual catwalk shows in Paris, New York and London were also skipped, with Brooklyn spending much of his year in the United States with American wife Nicola Peltz.

Arguably the most hurtful snub, Sir David and his family were excluded from Brooklyn and Nicola’s marriage renewal ceremony in August, conducted at her wealthy father’s estate in upstate New York.

Conversely, the young couple also chose to miss close family friend Holly Ramsay’s wedding to Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty at Bath Cathedral on December 27.

Sir David Beckham has described Victoria and their children as his ‘life’ in an emotional address to Instagram followers – and his absent eldest son

But Sir David, 50, was evidently keen to build a bridge over troubled water while sharing a series of family photos with Instagram followers, among them a shot of Brooklyn as a teenager.

Captioning the shot, he wrote: ‘I love you all so much.’

Further shots included the retired footballer with sons Romeo, Cruz and daughter Harper, while a final image featured wife Victoria and all for four of her children, with the caption: ‘You are my life.’

The post was promptly re-shared by wife Victoria, 51, who accompanied the image of Sir David and Brooklyn with an affectionate love heart.

Earlier that day, the former footballer reflected on the past year and spoke of how ‘grateful’ he was for moments such as his 50th birthday and receiving his knighthood while admitting it is a year he’ll ‘remember forever’.

Sir David shared an Instagram carousel of 20 monument moments from 2025, none of which included Brooklyn.

However, he did include photos with Romeo, 22, Cruz, 20 and Harper, 14, enjoying family holidays and celebrations together over the past 12 months.

Alongside the images, he wrote: ‘I feel very lucky to have had the year I’ve had in 2025 full of moments that I will never forget from my 50th to my knighthood (still pinching myself) and then finishing with winning the MLS as an owner.’

Sir David’s post was later shared by his wife, Lady Victoria, with an accompanying love heart

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Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz Brooklyn have been absent from every significant Beckham family event over the course of the year, including his father’s long awaited investiture

Brooklyn has been at the centre of a feud with the Beckham family that has pitted the influencer and his wife Nicola against his parents and brothers (Brooklyn, David and Victoria in 2020)

Sir David was evidently keen to build a bridge over troubled water while sharing a series of family photos with Instagram followers

The collection of images also featured a shot of Sir David with daughter Harper as an infant

Brooklyn and Nicola have been together since October 2019, going on to announce their engagement in July 2020 (pictured)

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Brooklyn Beckham calls wife Nicola Peltz his ‘sweetie pie’ amid family feud

Sir David thanked his wife and their children in the post, but did not name check them individually as he has done in the past

Referencing his former Manchester United manager, he added: ‘I’m so grateful to my incredible wife, my amazing children, my friends and team I work with every single day nothing would have been possible without you all…

‘But as Sir Alex Ferguson would say “onto the the next”. Thank you for the incredible memories I will forever remember 2025. @victoriabeckham I love you & our kids.’

The post included pictures with David’s four family dogs, cocker spaniels Fig, Sage, and Olive, plus a Cockapoo named Simba.

Lady Victoria also showed support for her husband by resharing his post, and writing: ‘We are all so proud of you (and love you so much!).’

It comes after Brooklyn and Nicola decided to snub the Beckham’s Christmas in the Cotswolds and spend it in the US instead.

Sir David’s ‘incredible year’ was tinged with sadness due to his fallout with son Brooklyn (pictured L-R Harper, Romeo, David, Victoria and Cruz)

Earlier on Wednesday, he spoke of how ‘grateful’ he was for moments such as his 50th birthday and receiving his knighthood, while admitting it is a year he’ll ‘remember forever’

The post was largely a tribute to his wife Victoria who he is pictured with at his 50th birthday in the Cotswolds which was not attended by Brooklyn

Sir David included photos with his other three children Romeo, (pictured), Cruz, and Harper enjoying family holidays and celebrations together over the past 12 months

The actress revealed how much she ‘loved being home’ over the weekend after wrapping filming for the thriller Pretty Ugly.

The couple have continued to put on a united display amid mounting backlash from fans urging him to him to heal the rift with his family.

It was recently confirmed by younger brother Cruz that Brooklyn had blocked his entire family on social media following reports they had unfollowed him.

‘My mum and dad would never unfollow their son… Let’s get the facts right. They woke up blocked… as did I,’ Cruz wrote.

And while his parents, Sir David, Kadt Victoria, and his siblings celebrated Holly Ramsay’s wedding to Adam Peaty in Bath on December 27, Brooklyn opted to share a Grinch-themed post thousands of miles away at his Los Angeles home.

The influencer and his wife have been absent from countless Beckham family occasions over the past year including birthdays, parties and holidays.

The former footballer spent this summer on the family yacht – Seven – with his three younger children (pictured with Cruz)

He also shared a picture with Harper from one of his 50th birthday celebrations

HORROR ATTACK REVEAEED: A nurse has spoken out after being “𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙣 𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝” in an alleged crowbar rampage — revealing the gruesome injuries she says were inflicted on her

A nurse who claims she survived being attacked by a man armed with a crowbar in a hospital waiting room declared today: ‘I’m so, so, so lucky I’m still alive and I’m so lucky I ran when I did.’

Meg Lynch, 28, said she was ‘nearly beaten to death’ while stood getting a drink from a vending machine.

The district nurse, who suffered ‘a few blows to the head’ before running and hiding from her alleged attacker, told how she was left bloodied and bruised.

She had to go to a nearby accident and emergency unit for a CT scan and to have ‘my head sewn back together’.

A 20-year-old Afghan man allegedly launched the attack after he was refused an appointment, and was arrested at the scene at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-Le-Willows, Merseyside, on suspicion of six counts of Section 18 wounding, affray and criminal damage.

In an update this morning, Merseyside Police said he had been detained under the Mental Health Act, and officers would be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area.

But Ms Lynch, one of six people injured in yesterday’s horrific attack, added: ‘I honestly don’t know why this man did this to me and other workers of the hospital.’

All of the injured are in a stable condition. Their injuries included head lacerations, injuries to their arms and hands, and bruising.

Nurse Meg Lynch said she was ‘nearly beaten to death’ by an Afghan migrant while stood getting a drink from a vending machine

The district nurse, who suffered ‘a few blows to the head’ before running and hiding, told how she was left bloodied and bruised

In a Facebook post, she wrote: ‘Just an update to everyone who’s been concerned, as I’ve not had the chance to reply to everyone.

‘As a district nurse, around 12:00 I was attacked at work, at the hospital I am based at.

‘I was beaten nearly to death with a crowbar by an unknown man, who started attacking me from behind with the crowbar, as I stood getting a drink from a vending machine.

‘After a few blows to the head, I ran, I hid and did what I could do, to get a door between me and him.

‘I’ve been to Whiston A&E, who was absolutely amazing to me.

‘My CT scans and X ray have come back clear and I’ve had my head sewn back together, after cutting all the matted blood out.

‘I honestly don’t know why this man did this to me and other workers of the hospital, but I’m so so so lucky I’m still alive and I’m so lucky I ran when I did, otherwise I wouldn’t be here right now.’

Merseyside Police said the weapon believed to have been used – a metal bar – has been recovered for forensic examination, while ‘witnesses are being spoken to and all available CCTV footage is being analysed’.

She had to go to a nearby accident and emergency unit for a CT scan and to have ‘my head sewn back together’

A 20-year-old Afghan man allegedly launched the attack after he was refused an appointment, and was arrested at the scene at Newton Community Hospital in Newton-Le-Willows, Merseyside

Ms Lynch, who only recently completed her first year of nursing, added: ‘I’m home and safe with my family taking care of me’

A spokesperson said: ‘The 20-year-old suspect, who lives in Newton-le-Willows and is originally from Afghanistan, was arrested on suspicion of six counts of Section 18 wounding, affray and criminal damage. He was taken to a police station in Merseyside and has now been detained under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act.

‘A scene remains in place at the community hospital while enquiries into the incident continue. A mobile police station is also on site and people are encouraged to speak to officers with any worries or concerns.

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Woman ‘ran from hospital covered in blood during crowbar rampage’: Afghan man, 20, is arrested

‘There will be high visibility policing patrols in the local area and officers will continue to engage with staff and patients at the hospital as well as people living and working locally.’

St Helens Local Policing Superintendent Sarah Rotherham said: ‘We understand that this incident would have caused concern for the local community and I hope the public feel reassured by the increased police presence.

‘I would ask anyone with concerns to speak to one of our officers or contact their local police station.’

Ms Lynch, who only recently completed her first year of nursing, added: ‘I’m home and safe with my family taking care of me.’

She revealed she was ‘very sore and in a state of shock but okay’ following her ordeal yesterday.

On Facebook, Ms Lynch received a flood of messages of support.

Andrea Vickers, a fellow nurse, said: ‘I’m so glad you’re ok sweety… For this to happen to one of the kindest, cheeriest souls I have the pleasure of knowing is absolutely gutting! Sending hugs and lots of love.’

Jessica Shaw, a nursing student who has been on a placement with Ms Lynch, said: ‘You’re the nicest girl I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and you have shown me such warmth and kindness whilst on placement with you.

‘It angers me to see that somebody has done this to you. Wishing you all the greatest healing, strength and love possible.’

TRAGIC LOSS: A 12-year-old schoolboy was found ɗєaɗ by his cousin after an alleged “Squid Game prank” went horribly wrong, an inquest has heard

A schoolboy was found dead by his cousin after attempting to replicate a scene from Squid Games as a prank, an inquest heard.

Sebastian Cizman, 12, was found unresponsive at his family’s home in Glasshoughton, West Yorkshire, during his younger brother’s First Holy Communion celebrations.

He is believed to have been imitating a challenge that encourages youngsters to choke themselves until they pass out, and which has been linked to multiple child deaths around the world.

Health experts have warned it can cause permanent brain damage or death in under five minutes.

Sebastian was discovered with a sheet around his neck, lying motionless on the stairs of the family’s terraced home on the evening of June 27.

Despite desperate efforts by paramedics to revive him, he was tragically pronounced dead at hospital.

Sebastian was a fan of a game based on Netflix dystopian thriller Squid Game and police found an image on his phone of a character from the show who was found hanging, the inquest heard.

He was described as a popular boy and a ‘prankster’ who enjoyed making his friends laugh.

Sebastian Cizman, 12, was found unresponsive at his family’s home in Glasshoughton, West Yorkshire, during his younger brother’s First Holy Communion celebrations

Sebastian’s heartbroken parents Marcin (right) and Kasia (left) spoke out to urge other families to wake up to the dangers lurking on their children’s phones

The inquest at Wakefield Coroner’s Court also heard how Sebastian had previously pretended to be unconscious while play fighting.

After speaking to his family, police believed he may have been attempting to recreate what he had seen on Squid Game but things had gone wrong.

Sebastian had shared an image of the hanged Squid Game character on a WhatsApp group on the day of his death.

A police investigation found no evidence he had searched for any dangerous challenges on TikTok, but he had viewed Squid Games and had also searched YouTube for a first-aid video about ‘surviving choking alone.’

The ‘speculation’ surrounding dangerous challenges had been put forward shortly after his death but police had found no evidence to support it, the inquest heard.

Sebastian’s family had previously talked to him about the dangers of such online challenges and he said that he wouldn’t try them.

Detective Sergeant Paul Bayliss, who investigated the circumstances around Sebastian’s death, told the inquest hearing that boy was interested in Squid Game, and the character who took their own life whose image was found on his phone, coupled with his ‘prankster nature’, had led to the hypothesis to explain his death.

Dr Philip Dore, headteacher at St Wilfred’s Catholic High School, said Sebastian had been a popular, happy and funny pupil who was good at making his class laugh.

He had been a form rep and had garnered more than 200 positive comments from staff and had previously been named ‘star of the class’.

Sebastian’s parents, Marcin and Katarzyna, said that Sebastian was a happy boy who had no mental health problems.

In a statement, they said that they believed his death was caused by a tragic accident.

Ruling a verdict of death by misadventure, assistant coroner John Hobson described Sebastian’s death as a ‘very tragic set of circumstances’.

Earlier this year, in an interview with the Daily Mail, they called for urgent action to hold tech giants accountable for the dangerous videos being uploaded to their platforms and pushed on to their feeds.

He is believed to have been imitating a challenge that encourages youngsters to choke themselves until they pass out, and which has been linked to multiple child deaths around the world

Kasia (left) said: ‘They should take the people who are promoting these challenges and put them in prison, so no other child dies’

Kasia, 37, an office clerk, said: ‘They should take the people who are promoting these challenges and put them in prison, so no other child dies.

‘These platforms don’t do anything. It is completely unchecked. They make money and they don’t care.

‘It’s hard what I’m going to say, but I hope that the loss of my child is going to help some other children to understand.

‘And for the people that run these social media platforms to do something, to stop it from happening.

‘How many kids have to die until they will do something?

‘My message to other parents is check your children’s phones before it is too late.’

Sebastian was found fatally injured on a staircase at the family’s end-of-terraced home during an ‘absolutely happy’ day with his family and cousins from Poland for the communion of younger brother Mike, nine.

Kasia said: ‘We were cooking downstairs, and the kids had all been playing on the trampoline.

‘Marcin brought out ice creams and called the kids. Then the kids came downstairs without Sebastian.

‘So Marcin asked “where’s Sebastian?”. His cousin said they were tired from jumping on the trampoline and that he went upstairs for a rest.

‘He told them to go and fetch him, and they came back after a few seconds and said “I don’t know if Sebastian’s joking or not, but he’s lying on the stairs”.

‘We ran upstairs and found him. He had taken a sheet from the duvet, which wrapped around his neck but not tightly.

‘We called for an ambulance straight away and started to resuscitate him. We didn’t stop until the paramedics arrived.’

Sebastian, a self-taught classical pianist, was able to access social media despite platforms requiring their users to be at least 13 years old.

Sebastian had no history of self-harm, and his parents say he would never knowingly risk his life.

Marcin said: ‘He was able to sign up for them with no questions asked. He was smart enough to do it. Smart enough to wriggle around it.’

It comes after the parents of four British teenagers filed a lawsuit against TikTok in February over the deaths of their children, which they claim were the result of a similar challenge.

The lawsuit related to the 2022 deaths of Isaac Kenevan, 13, Archie Battersbee, 12, Julian ‘Jools’ Sweeney, 14, and Maia Walsh, 13.

The lethal trends, which have been widely condemned by experts, often show up in users’ social media feeds without being directly searched for.

HEARTBREAKING: Kate Beckinsale breaks down in tears as she fires back at body-shaming trolls — and reveals the 𝔱𝔯𝔞𝔤𝔦𝔠 reason behind her sudden weight loss

Kate Beckinsale broke down in tears in a newly-shared clip as she hit back at body shaming trolls, while revealing the tragic reason behind her dramatic weight-loss.

The English actress, 52, took to her Instagram page on Wednesday as she reflected on her ‘really, really hard year’.

Kate lost her mum Judy Loe earlier this year, who passed away at the age of 73 after a long battle with cancer.

Recording herself for her new post, the Click star explained how the loss of her mum and her stepfather the year before, led her ‘body to close down’.

Kate looked visibly emotional as she wiped away her tears, and said: ‘2025 was a really really hard year. It was also the last year that my incredible mum was on this planet.

‘So I feel really torn about letting go of it as well.’

Kate Beckinsale, 52, broke down in tears in a newly-shared clip as she hit back at body shaming trolls, while revealing the tragic reason behind her dramatic weight-loss

The English actress took to her Instagram page on Wednesday as she reflected on her ‘really really hard year’

She went on: ‘But I just wanted to address the fact that I lost my stepfather a while ago, a couple years ago.

‘And I already watched my father die because my mum was in hospital and it was just me at the age of five.

‘I watched my 31-year-old father die of a huge heart attack, and then I watched my stepfather die and I watched my mother degenerate and die.’

‘Such an incredible amount of suffering and what I will say, it doesn’t make you feel very hungry,’ Kate said candidly about her weight-loss.

‘And I don’t know if there’s some kind of survivor guilt because it started after my stepdad died and it’s not like anorexia where you’re starving and it’s a kind of willpower thing.

‘It’s like your body has closed down.

‘I think it’s shock and trauma.

She concluded: ‘I think watching, especially alone the people you love the most dearly suffer and have horrific and sometimes violent and awful deaths, really makes you not hungry.’

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The Click star explained how the loss of her mum and her stepfather the year previously, led her ‘body to close down’

Kate lost her mum Judy Loe earlier this year, who passed away at 73 after a long battle with cancer (pitured with Kate)

Kate took to Instagram to share that her mother had died in her arms on July 15 after ‘immeasurable suffering’ and admitted she is ‘paralysed’ with grief.

Judy’s cause of death wasn’t confirmed however Kate previously revealed her mother been battling stage four cancer for the last two years.

For the funeral ceremony, which took place at Chiswick House, she was joined by her daughter Lily, 26, who she shares with her ex Michael Sheen – who also attended to support her.

Lily and Michael were seen sweetly hugging in one of the snaps Kate shared.

Kate and Michael were a couple from the mid-1990s to 2003.

In the caption Kate said she still felt ‘blindsided and devastated’ by her death and heartbreakingly admitted she often still goes to call her before realising that no one will answer.

Kate also shared that her mother hadn’t wanted people to wear black at her funeral and that she wished for a ‘celebration of her life’.

In her lengthy and emotional caption Kate said: ‘Dearest Mama. The fact that you have had to have a funeral at all is wrong and ludicrous. You are the biggest lover of life, the most energetic, the most vital, the most joyous.

Judy’s cause of death wasn’t confirmed however Kate previously revealed her mother been battling stage four cancerfor the last two years

Judy’s death came 18 months after the death of her second husband, and Kate’s stepfather Roy (pictured), who died in January 2024

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Kate Beckinsale feels ‘blindsided’ by her mother’s death and shares snaps from her funeral

‘The only mandate you gave me over the years was that you wanted a celebration of your life and that no one was to wear black so no one did.

‘What I did not anticipate, particularly the night before the funeral where I got two hours sleep on a hard sofa and very much considered not being able to attend because I was afraid I couldn’t handle it, was that someone would be able to have a funeral that was so full of love and happiness and joy, which is all because of you and who you are and what you brought.

‘You are a bridge builder, a hoarder of love, an archiver of precious history ,of respect for years of friendship and my God that showed..

‘I think the hardest thing I have ever had to do was say goodbye to you and I haven’t managed it yet, I still reach for my phone in the early hours of the morning to text you and then realise that I won’t get a response.

‘The funeral and the party which I will not call a wake afterwards, and which I very much feel you attended in some vaporous way blew the f***ing roof off Chiswick House.

Kate’s biological father, actor Richard Beckinsale, famed for his roles in popular shows Rising Damp and Porridge, suddenly died on March 19, 1979 at the age of just 31

Richard’s tragic death came as a shock to the young family as he died in his sleep from a heart attack, which was later revealed to be a congenital defect (pictured with a young Kate and his wife, Judy Loe)

‘Everybody danced – from the age of 3 to their mid 80s. Your school friends attended, my school friends attended, Lily’s school friends attended. The love you inspired, quietly and generously was awe-inspiring and still is.’

Her death came 18 months after the death of Judy’s second husband and Kate’s stepfather Roy, who died in January 2024.

He was hospitalised in Los Angeles in December 2023 after suffering ‘a massive stroke’ while battling two forms of cancer, which he was diagnosed with in the summer prior.

Kate’s biological father, actor Richard Beckinsale, famed for his roles in popular shows Rising Damp and Porridge, suddenly died on March 19, 1979 at the age of just 31, leaving behind his devastated wife Judy Loe and young daughters Kate and Samantha.

Richard’s tragic death came as a shock to the young family as he died in his sleep from a heart attack, which was later revealed to be a congenital defect.

There had been no real indication of what was to come, and it was in fact Judy who was the family’s focus then, as she was in hospital recovering from an operation.

Richard left behind daughters Kate (left) and Samantha who he shared with his first wife Margaret. She was raised by her stepfather and did not know Richard was her father until she was 11

The evening before his death, Richard attended a party for The Two Ronnies before returning to the family home in Sunningdale, Berks (pictured, left, on Porridge with co-star Ronnie Barker)

The day before his death, Richard had taken Kate – who was just five-years-old at the time – to visit her mother in hospital and had no physical complaints, simply saying he felt tired.

That evening, Richard attended a party for The Two Ronnies before returning to the family home in Sunningdale, Berks.

The last anyone heard from the rising comedy star was in a phone call he made to friends before going to bed, in which he noted he had pains in his arms and chest but made light of it.

Tragically, Richard never woke up.

While his devastated friends and loved ones struggled to come to terms with the loss, just three days later the BAFTA Awards honoured Sydney Lotterby, producer of Porridge follow up Going Straight, and Richard’s friend and co-star Ronnie Barker.

At the ceremony, Sydney was too upset to speak.

There had been no real indication of what was to come, and it was in fact Judy who was the family’s focus then, as she was in hospital recovering from an operation

Meanwhile, Ronnie broke down in tears as he paid tribute, saying: ‘The death of my friend Richard Beckinsale has robbed me of the joy of this award but the pride of winning it still remains.’

That summer saw the release of the film version of Porridge, in which Richard was seen in his role as Lennie Godber.

He continues to be seen on TVs across the nation on reruns of his popular shows.

Yet for his daughter Kate, the memories of losing her father are too distressing to contemplate.

Of losing her father, the Hollywood actress said in 2013: ‘It was a terrible loss. It’s so weird as a five-year-old to look out in the street and see people reading the paper and crying while you’re crying and your mum is crying and your granny’s crying.

‘Even though it was the worst loss that I have experienced I was able to share it with people who genuinely, even if they didn’t know him, really seemed to love him.

‘I feel not many people are in that position – to have lost somebody and also to feel like that’s something really relevant to other people.’

 “A HЄLL OF A YЄAR” Davina McCall and husband Michael Douglas admit they can’t wait for 2025 to end after an unimaginably brutal year

Davina McCall and her husband Michael Douglas have admitted they can’t wait for 2025 to end after enduring a ‘hell of a year’ following the presenter’s brain tumour and breast cancer diagnosis.

The TV presenter, 58, who revealed in November that she had undergone surgery amid her health battles, appeared in high spirits on Tuesday as she was treated to a haircut by her husband.

Hairdresser Michael, 50, shared the entire trim on Instagram Live, showing fans his techniques and tips while chatting to viewers alongside Davina.

As the couple laughed together and interacted with fans in the comments, Michael confessed he was eager for the year to be over, a sentiment Davina quickly shared.

However, despite the difficulties they have faced, Davina revealed the end of the year had been good, referencing the couple’s secret wedding.

The pair went on to ask fans about their New Year’s Eve plans before revealing they would be hosting a small party themselves.

Davina McCall and her husband Michael Douglas have admitted they can’t wait for 2025 to end after enduring a ‘hell of a year’ following the presenter’s brain tumour and breast cancer diagnosis

The TV presenter, 58, was treated to a haircut by her husband Michael, 50, on Tuesday and he shared the entire trim on Instagram Live, showing fans his techniques and tips while chatting to viewers alongside Davina

Bringing the livestream to a close, Davina thanked fans for their support.

She said: ‘Me and Michael would like to say thank you to you, you have been really supportive of Michael, and it’s meant so much to him along the way.

‘And I know that when a couple (of) things have happened to me, you’ve showered him with love for me as well.

‘I’d like to say to Michael on behalf of all of you, thank you. You put yourself out to help other people, and to fix our hair, and we know that hair is everything, you’re lovely.’

She concluded the message: ‘Happy New Year, we love you, thanks for everything.’

The TV personality announced in November 2024 that she had been diagnosed with a colloid cyst, a rare type of brain tumour.

She bravely endured a gruelling six-hour operation to remove the 14mm cyst.

Almost exactly a year later, however, on November 8, she revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer six weeks before and had undergone successful surgery after discovering a lump in her breast while on the set of The Masked Singer.

As the couple laughed together and interacted with fans in the comments, Michael confessed he was eager for the year to be over, a sentiment Davina quickly shared

However, despite the difficulties they have faced, Davina revealed the end of the year had been good, referencing the couple’s secret wedding

Bringing the livestream to a close, Davina thanked fans for their support, saying: ‘Me and Michael would like to say thank you to you, you have been really supportive of Michael, and it’s meant so much to him along the way,’

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Davina McCall and husband Michael Douglas fly to Florida for their ‘honeymoon’ ahead of Christmas following their intimate wedding with family and friends

Davina previously explained how the disease had been caught ‘very very early’ but would still require radiotherapy.

In the candid clip, the star said she was opening up in a bid to help others, just like she did when doctors operated on her rare benign brain tumour in November 2024.

She recalled first discovering the lump while on the set of the ITV singing show, before a sign in the toilets at the Lorraine studios encouraged her to get checked.

Davina said: ‘I just wanted to tell you I have had breast cancer, I found a lump a few weeks ago and it came and went.

‘But then when I was filming The Masked Singer, the show Lorraine put signs on the back of their toilet doors saying “check your breasts” and every time I went for a wee I did that, and it was still there.

‘So I underwent a biopsy and it was indeed breast cancer and I had it taken out in a lumpectomy nearly three weeks ago.’

Davina went on to discuss the results of her surgery and how doctors had now given her the all clear.

The former Big Brother host went on: ‘It was very very small so I got it very very early, which is incredibly lucky, but I am so relieved that I have had it removed and that it hasn’t spread.’

On November 8, Davina revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer six weeks before and had undergone successful surgery after discovering a lump in her breast while on the set of The Masked Singer

She explained how the disease had been caught ‘very very early’ but would still require radiotherapy (Pictured March 2024)

Earlier this month, Davina tied the knot with hairdresser Michael in a small London ceremony, two months after their surprise Ibiza engagement

Davina said that despite the good news she would still require five days of radiotherapy in January as an ‘insurance policy’ to remain cancer free.

She thanked the doctors and nurses as well as her family and her then fiancé Michael before admitting: ‘I was very angry when I found out, but I let go of that and I feel in a much more positive place now.’

Earlier this month, Davina tied the knot with hairdresser Michael in a small London ceremony, two months after their surprise Ibiza engagement.

The television host praised her ‘lovely’ new husband following the ceremony after he supported her through surgery to remove a benign brain tumour and recent breast cancer diagnosis.

Davina and Michael first met when he styled her hair during her time presenting Big Brother, which she worked on from 2000 until 2010.

They later turned their longtime friendship into romance during the summer of 2019,  two years after her split from ex-husband Matthew Robertson.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and affects more than two MILLION women a year

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Each year in the UK there are more than 55,000 new cases, and the disease claims the lives of 11,500 women. In the US, it strikes 266,000 each year and kills 40,000. But what causes it and how can it be treated?

What is breast cancer?

It comes from a cancerous cell which develops in the lining of a duct or lobule in one of the breasts.

When the breast cancer has spread into surrounding tissue it is called ‘invasive’. Some people are diagnosed with ‘carcinoma in situ’, where no cancer cells have grown beyond the duct or lobule.

Most cases develop in those over the age of 50 but younger women are sometimes affected. Breast cancer can develop in men, though this is rare.

Staging indicates how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body.

The cancerous cells are graded from low, which means a slow growth, to high, which is fast-growing. High-grade cancers are more likely to come back after they have first been treated.

What causes breast cancer?

A cancerous tumour starts from one abnormal cell. The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply ‘out of control’.

Although breast cancer can develop for no apparent reason, there are some risk factors that can increase the chance, such as genetics.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

The usual first symptom is a painless lump in the breast, although most are not cancerous and are fluid filled cysts, which are benign.

The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph nodes in the armpit. If this occurs you will develop a swelling or lump in an armpit.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Initial assessment: A doctor examines the breasts and armpits. They may do tests such as a mammography, a special x-ray of the breast tissue which can indicate the possibility of tumours.
Biopsy: A biopsy is when a small sample of tissue is removed from a part of the body. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. The sample can confirm or rule out cancer.

If you are confirmed to have breast cancer, further tests may be needed to assess if it has spread. For example, blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the liver or a chest X-ray.

How is breast cancer treated?

Treatment options which may be considered include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. Often a combination of two or more of these treatments are used.

Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery or the removal of the affected breast depending on the size of the tumour.
Radiotherapy: A treatment which uses high energy beams of radiation focused on cancerous tissue. This kills cancer cells, or stops them from multiplying. It is mainly used in addition to surgery.
Chemotherapy: A treatment of cancer by using anti-cancer drugs which kill cancer cells, or stop them from multiplying.
Hormone treatments: Some types of breast cancer are affected by the ‘female’ hormone oestrogen, which can stimulate the cancer cells to divide and multiply. Treatments which reduce the level of these hormones, or prevent them from working, are commonly used in people with breast cancer.

How successful is treatment?

The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is still small, and has not spread. Surgical removal of a tumour in an early stage may then give a good chance of cure.

The routine mammography offered to women between the ages of 50 and 71 means more breast cancers are being diagnosed and treated at an early stage.

For more information visit breastcancernow.org or call its free helpline on 0808 800 6000

“I CAN’T LEAVE HER — NOT NOW, NOT EVER.” Britain has been left shaken as football icon Harry Redknapp, 78, keeps a relentless bedside vigil beside his wife Sandra after she was rushed to hospital with recurring pneumonia, cancelling every public commitment and refusing to move an inch from her side. Those close to the couple say exhaustion is etched across his face, but his grip on her hand never loosens — a silent act of devotion that has reduced fans to tears. Speaking in a breaking voice, Harry made it clear this is not just fear, but lifelong love being tested to its limit: “After 58 years together, there’s nowhere else I’m meant to be.” Witnesses say the moment captured — Harry leaning in, whispering to her through the beeping machines — felt unbearably raw, as if the nation were intruding on something sacred. Social media has flooded with prayers and heartbreak, many calling it “the purest love story Britain has seen in years,” while one message echoed louder than all the rest: if this is the edge of life and loss, Harry Redknapp is choosing love — and daring fate to look him in the eye.

Legendary former football manager Harry Redknapp, 78, is demonstrating to the entire nation the extraordinary power of devotion as his wife, Sandra, 77, remains hospitalized following an emergency admission. Images of Harry keeping vigil hour after hour by her bedside at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, London, have become a symbol of enduring love after nearly six decades.

Witnesses at the hospital describe a touching scene: Harry barely moved from his plastic chair since December 9, 2025. Anxiety and devotion were clearly etched on his face every time he gripped Sandra’s hand tighter, especially when the monitors beeped. A close friend revealed Harry’s choked-up whisper outside the ward: “I can’t leave her… not now, not ever.”

Sandra was rushed to the hospital on December 7 after collapsing at their Bournemouth home with severe breathing difficulties. Initial reports suggest a recurrence of pneumonia—the same illness that nearly claimed her life in 2017—now complicated by her long-standing battle with rheumatoid arthritis and recent mobility issues.

Harry, who has always publicly called Sandra “his rock” since they met at 17, cancelled all professional commitments, including his punditry slot on Sky Sports, to care for his wife 24/7.

Those close to him confirm that Harry has barely eaten or slept, sustaining himself only on vending-machine coffee and sheer willpower. One visitor shared: “He holds her hand like it’s the only thing keeping her here.” Nurses at the hospital were also moved by his dedication, recounting how Harry continuously tells his wife stories from their life—from their first dance, their children, to West Ham’s FA Cup victory—as if desperately pleading for her to stay.

Their 58-year love story has entered football folklore. Married in 1967, they have navigated tragedy (the 1990 car crash in Italy that killed Harry’s friend and left him with a fractured skull), triumph (Harry’s 2008 FA Cup win with Portsmouth), and relentless media scrutiny. The 2017 pneumonia scare saw Harry cancel an I’m a Celebrity stint to be with her, famously stating: “Football’s nothing compared to her.”

The entire nation is collectively sending well wishes, with the hashtag #StayStrongSandra reaching 400,000 posts. Their son, Jamie Redknapp, shared a childhood photo of his parents dancing, with the message: “Mum, you’re tougher than all of us. We love you.”

Doctors remain cautiously optimistic, with Sandra’s condition described as “stable but serious.” Harry told a friend: “She’s my world. I’m not going anywhere.”

For a nation that has followed their love story from East End ballrooms to Wembley glory, Harry Redknapp’s greatest victory is not on the pitch, but the hand he resolutely refuses to let go.