Author: bangb

  •  STRICTLY SHOCK: WHO REPLACES THEM NOW?!  Fans are still in TEARS after the emotional finale — but the big question is already taking over social media: who could possibly replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing? DG

     STRICTLY SHOCK: WHO REPLACES THEM NOW?!  Fans are still in TEARS after the emotional finale — but the big question is already taking over social media: who could possibly replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing? DG

     STRICTLY SHOCK: WHO REPLACES THEM NOW?!  Fans are still in TEARS after the emotional finale — but the big question is already taking over social media: who could possibly replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing?

    Who could replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly after emotional finale?


    Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have hosted their last Strictly live show (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)
    Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly shocked Strictly Come Dancing fans when they announced they were quitting the hit BBC show.

    Their departure prompted immediate speculation about who could replace the legendary TV duo ahead of their final show.

    The pair revealed their exit with a video on Daly’s Instagram, where they addressed ‘rumblings’ about them leaving.

    ‘We want you to hear this from us,’ said Celebrity Traitors host Claudia.

    ‘After 21 wonderfully joyful years on Strictly, we have decided that the time is right to step aside and pass over the baton,’ Tess chimed in.

    The news sent shockwaves through the Strictly fandom and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as the pair bid farewell to the BBC audience and told viewers to ‘Keeeeep dancing’ one last time.

    Who is the favourite? Latest odds revealed

    Betting has now been suspended on who could replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly because there’s a clear favourite to take on the big job.

    Zoe Ball


    We’ll be calling her Zoe Glitter-Ball next! (Picture: Chris Jackson/PA Wire)
    Zoe Ball is the favourite to replace Tess and Claudia when they hang up their dancing shoes.

    The radio presenter’s name had always been in the mix for the job as she’s got history with the show – appearing as a contestant on the third series, presenting It Takes Two after Claudia left, and hosting the live shows in 2011 and 2015.

    However, when she announced she was quitting her BBC Radio 2 show on December 13, it was seen by fans (and bookies) as a sign she was getting ready to take over the ballroom.

    Soon after the news broke, betting on who would host Strictly next was suspended with a Ladbrokes rep confirming Zoe was the new fave.

    “Radio 2’s loss will be Strictly’s gain,’ they told the Daily Mail. ‘If the latest odds are anything to go by… we’ve now pulled the plug on Tess and Claudia’s replacement with Zoe Ball seemingly a shoo-in for the job.’

    Who else is in the running to replace Tess and Claudia?

    While Zoe might be the favourite, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other names being considered.

    Bradley Walsh


    Bradley Walsh? More like Bradley Waltz-sh… I’m sorry (Picture: ITV)
    Bradley Walsh is best known these days for hosting The Chase on ITVand Gladiators for the Beeb (although to us, he’ll always be Graham from Doctor Who).

    William Hill were giving Bradders 9/1 odds of getting the gig and there were rumours he was in final talks with the Beeb.

    A source told The Sun that Bradley had been spotted hanging about the Strictly studio, which ‘got tongues wagging’.

    ‘Bosses are keen for Bradley to take over,’ the insider said. ‘He is a real pro and has brilliant experience hosting live shows.

    ‘Producers need a safe pair of hands to steady the ship amid so much damage. Of course, he’d have a female alongside him as part of a duo.’

    So who’s that female presenter?

    Alex Jones


    (Picture: BBC)
    Supposedly, The One Show’s Alex Jones was being considered. Like Zoe, she took part in a previous Strictly series, and she’s apparently a huge fan of the dancing competition.

    According to The Sun (who else?) Strictly bosses thought she’d be the perfect presenting partner for Bradley.

    ‘Alex and Bradley are both the favourites to take over from Tess and Claudia,’ a source explained.

    ‘Alex is a massive fan of Strictly, too, so this would be the dream gig for her.’

    While The Sun’s insider fancied Alex’s chances, Ladbrokes weren’t as convinced, giving her just 20/1 odds.

    Alan Carr


    From Traitors Tower to Blackpool Tower? (Picture: Laura Rose/Dave Benett/WireImage)
    Ever since he won the Celebrity Traitors, Alan Carr has been the hottest name in showbiz.

    We’ve heard plenty of rumours that the comedian was being lined up for a host of presenting jobs once he was out of Claudia’s castle. Yet the biggest show he’s been linked with is Strictly.

    Despite several sources listing Alan as a frontrunner for the job, we sadly couldn’t find any specific odds for Alan.

    That may be because Amanda Holden went on Amanda’s Heart FM Breakfast Show and told the host neither she nor Alan is taking the job.

    ‘There are lots of people in the mix, and there’s a huge picture of Alan and me saying that we’re doing chemistry tests and this and that and auditioning,’ she explained.

    ‘I want to say now that me and Alan are 100% not doing Strictly.’

    Amanda Holden


    Here’s a picture of two people who aren’t hosting Strictly (Picture: BBC/Voltage TV)
    Probably no point explaining this one now… Amanda isn’t doing it.

    Holly Willoughby


    Willoughby is a trusted presenter with years of experience (Picture: James Veysey/Shutterstock)
    The former This Morning host, Holly Willoughby, is in the predicted list of people to take over from Tess and Claudia.

    She’s a trusted presenter with years of experience and isn’t unfamiliar with hosting dance competitions.

    William Hill were giving the Dancing on Ice host7/2 odds to become the next face of Strictly.

    Rylan Clark


    Rylan has a BBC podcast and hosts Saturday afternoons on Radio 2 (Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
    Another celebrity who could be shouting the famous Strictly catchphrase, ‘keep dancing’, is Rylan Clark.

    Ladbrokers were giving him 5/1 odds before betting was supsended so he was in the running.

    Rylan has a BBC podcast and hosts Saturday afternoons on Radio 2.

    Could he be the next glitzy host?

    Rob Rinder


    Rob Rinder, a host? Surely he’d be a judge! (Picture: Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images)
    One person whose name comes up a lot along with Rylan’s is Rob Rinder.

    Rob, of course, has presented a few travel shows with Rylan for the BBC, and they’ve got good onscreen chemistry.

    With Channel 4 cancelling The Inheritance (remember that?) Rob might be looking for work as well.

    So what are his chances? Well, the Daily Mail reported that the OLBG was giving him 4/1 odds.

    Alison Hammond


    Alison has been making us laugh since 2002 (Picture: Ian West/PA Wire)
    Channel 4’s Great British Bake Off presenter, Alison Hammond, is down as Paddy Power’s sixth favourite to take the presenting gig.

    Ladbroke’s were offering 6/1 odds at one point, but The Independent reported she only had a 12/1 shot at the gig.

    Alison has been making viewers laugh since she appeared on the third series of Big Brother in 2002.

    Since then, she’s taken on various presenting gigs, including ITV’s This Morning and appeared on reality shows like I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!.

    Angela Scanlon


    Angela is more than up for the job (Picture: David Fisher/Shutterstock)
    Former Strictly contestant and One Show presenter Angela Scanlon is a name that keeps coming up as well.

    Oddspedia gave her an 8/1 chance of being named the next host, which aren’t great odds, but she’s not ruled herself out like others on this list.

    ‘Claude and Tess have the most amazing dynamic, and that’s really important,’ when asked about their chances by The Sun.

    ‘So there’s, you know, lots of different things to play for, but I would certainly answer the call.’

    La Voix


    Give La Voix the job now (Picture: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)
    Last but not least, we have La Voix. La Voix, real name Christopher Dennis, was a contestant this year, but they had to pull out early due to injury.

    Fans have been desperate to see more of La Voix, with some on Reddit (and the Metro office)claiming she’d be a ‘fantastic’ new host for the show.

    Ladbrokes gave La Voix a 7/1 shot at hosting the next series of Strictly.

  • The father of the forgotten “red-shirt hero” breaks down in tears as he speaks about his son’s condition following the Bondi Beach ιncιdent, after putting himself in dɑnger to save others: “Will my boy recover?” READ M0RE DD

    The father of the forgotten “red-shirt hero” breaks down in tears as he speaks about his son’s condition following the Bondi Beach ιncιdent, after putting himself in dɑnger to save others: “Will my boy recover?” READ M0RE DD

    The father of the forgotten “red-shirt hero” breaks down in tears as he speaks about his son’s condition following the Bondi Beach ιncιdent, after putting himself in dɑnger to save others: “Will my boy recover?” READ M0RE

    The father of the forgotten “red-shirt hero” breaks down in tears as he speaks about his son’s condition following the Bondi Beach ιncιdent, after putting himself in dɑnger to save others: “Will my boy recover?”

    WARNING: Distressing content.

    A man who moved towards the Bondi gunman instead of fleeing remains fighting for his life after being shot.

    He had been looking forward to watching the ceremonial lighting of the menorah when the shooting began.

    As gunfire rang out, another friend of Bitton’s stood up and ran, but seconds later realised the 30-year-old was not with him.

    Bitton rushed to the side of Ahmed Al Ahmed as he tried to disarm the gunman. Credit: Supplied

    Moments later his sister in Israel then received a phone call from Bitton saying he had been shot.

    She alerted his friends in Sydney, who began desperately searching for him, before eventually finding him at St Vincent’s Hospital, initially listed as an unidentified patient.

    He remains in intensive care after undergoing multiple surgeries.

    In the days that followed, friends recognised Bitton in footage that showed him attempting to help, but was allegedly shot by Naveed Akram.

    Bitton was shot three times. Credit: Supplied

    Another friend, Cayli Barr, said Bitton’s decision was something “most of us couldn’t even imagine”.

    “Gefen had escaped, he was safe, but when he saw the terrorist, he ran into the line of fire to help,” Barr wrote in a GoFundMe page set up to support Bitton.

    “As Ahmad Al Ahmad heroically jumped on the terrorist, Gefen ran in alongside to confront the terrorist.

    “There, he was shot, fell to the ground, and shot again.

    “Now in the ICU, Gefen’s put his own life at risk with his selfless actions.

    “He ran into the face of danger like only a hero does, guided by the values on which he was educated and raised.”

    Bitton is still in ICU fighting for life. Credit: Supplied

    Bitton’s father has since flown from overseas to Sydney to be by his son’s bedside, as friends and family keep vigil at the hospital.

    Five days on, he remains in intensive care, unresponsive, and has undergone five surgeries, Cohen said.

    He was shot in the lower abdomen near the hip, shattering his pelvic bone.

    Bone fragments caused severe internal injuries, and doctors required three to four operations to stop the internal bleeding.

    Cohen said it is unclear whether Bitton will regain full use of his leg, and that the road to recovery will be long.

    “He’s like the most spiritual guy ever,” Cohen said, describing Bitton as “super brave and super unique”.

    “He loves people and always turns words into action.

    “He’s such a good soul and he didn’t deserve it. Nobody deserved it, but literally, he was such a good guy to everybody.”

    Bitton and Al Ahmed are among several civilians who attempted to intervene as the attack unfolded, with others also stepping toward danger in an effort to protect those around them.

    Boris and Sofia Gurman were killed after trying to disarm Sajid Akram before he reached the footbridge, while Reuven Morrison was fatally shot after throwing a brick at the gunman.

    Fifteen people were killed in Sunday’s terrorist attack, with dozens more injured.

  • SHOCK VICTORY: FROM “WORST” TO WINNER! STRICTLY FINAL ENDS IN FLOODS OF TEARS! BV

    SHOCK VICTORY: FROM “WORST” TO WINNER! STRICTLY FINAL ENDS IN FLOODS OF TEARS! BV

    SHOCK VICTORY: FROM “WORST” TO WINNER! STRICTLY FINAL ENDS IN FLOODS OF TEARS!

    After 13 gruelling weeks of fake tan disasters, aching feet and sequins galore, Strictly Come Dancing crowned its 2025 champion — and it was former England footballer Karen Carney who captured the nation’s heart.

    Facing fierce competition from Love Island star Amber Davies and TikTok favourite George Clarke, Karen danced her way to victory alongside professional partner Carlos Gu, lifting the iconic Glitterball Trophy in what proved to be one of the most emotional finals in the show’s history.

    Karen and Carlos have been declared the winners of Strictly 2025! Speaking after becoming Tess and Claudia’s last champion, Karen said: “I cannot believe it. I just want to say thank you to everybody who’s supported our journey and supported us.”

    “And thank you to this wonderful gentleman,” speaking to Carlos. “We are a team and I could not have done this without you. I can’t believe it – it’s been the biggest privilege and honour. I’m lost for words.”

    Carlos added: “Thank you Karen Carney – I love you. Thank you for being so incredible this whole journey. You taught me so much and we are completely two different characters but we challenge each other, we help each other, we never give up on each other. Thank you for changing my life and thank you Strictly.”

    An emotional Carlos struggled to hold back tears after the result was announced, admitting live on air that Strictly had changed his life. He told hosts that Karen taught him how to be “a kind, humble person” and how to truly work as part of a team, confessing that he once focused only on himself before the competition.

    Karen’s journey to the title was marked by standout performances, including a Peaky Blinders-inspired Argentine Tango that earned the first perfect 40 of the night and brought the audience to its feet. That momentum, combined with strong public backing, ultimately carried her to victory over fellow finalists Amber Davies and George Clarke.

    As the confetti fell, Karen thanked viewers for believing in her, while hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman signed off their final live show, closing one of the most emotional Strictly finales in recent memory.

  • Inside Mary Berry’s 59-year marriage to rarely-seen husband – devastating loss; affair confession; horror accident at home DD

    Inside Mary Berry’s 59-year marriage to rarely-seen husband – devastating loss; affair confession; horror accident at home DD

    Inside Mary Berry’s 59-year marriage to rarely-seen husband – devastating loss; affair confession; horror accident at home

    Mary Berry has been married to her husband Paul Hunnings for years – but what do we know about their romance?

    The national treasure – who recently turned 90 – is a staple on screens thanks to her appearances on shows such as The Great British Bake Off and Mary Berry’s Love to Cook.

    Away from the TV sets though, Mary – who is on A Mary Berry Christmas today (December 21) – is happily married to Paul Hunnings. But when did they tie the knot? And how did their son tragically die? Here, ED! is taking a look inside Mary and Paul’s relationship…


    Mary is married to husband Paul (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Mary Berry’s husband proposed three times

    Mary has been married to Paul Hunnings since 1966. But it turns out it took Mary a lot of convincing to settle down and marry Paul.

    In 2017, she revealed that Paul had proposed three times before she accepted his hand in marriage. During an episode of her BBC show Mary Berry Everyday, the couple appeared together. They chatted about their decades-long marriage together.

    “I do remember the first proposal and I think you were drunk,” Mary told her husband.

    “Well I might have been. It’s a big step. You don’t go into something like that without a bit of fortification,” he replied.

    Mary added: “I think you had too much and I can remember telling you you were drunk and thinking, I’m not going to have anything to do with this man. But you came back.”

    Eventually, Mary decided to say yes to Paul after he told her: “I’m getting on in age. So either it’s yes or no.”


    Mary’s son died in 1989 (Credit: ITV)

    Mary Berry and husband Paul’s son’s death

    Mary and Paul had three children: Thomas, Annabel and William. Sadly, William died in 1989 in a car accident when he was a teen.

    William passed away when he was at home enjoying a break from his studies at Bristol Poly. According to Mary, she’d cooked roast lamb the night before – William’s favourite – and he asked to borrow the car to go and pick up the weekend papers.

    However, after some time, there was a knock at the door, and Mary opened it to see a policeman standing in her driveway. She said at the time that she “just knew” William had died. Sister Annabel, who was a passenger in the car, survived.

    Visiting her son’s body after he died in the local hospital, Mary revealed to Vogue in 2025: “He just looked so beautiful and so lovely. His little cold face.”

    The former Great British Bake Off star added: “You know, we were so lucky to have him. He brought us such joy. I feel for people who have lost their child in a skiing accident or when they don’t know where they died. We got to be a family unit [right up until] those few hours before he died.”


    She admitted to ‘keeping her options open’ (Credit: The Great British Bake Off YouTube)

     Mary’s affair confession

    While Mary and Paul have managed to have quite a fairy tale relationship over the years, according to Mary, he wasn’t exactly her first choice when it came to a suitor.

    Back in 2019, Mary confessed that during the early days of her romance with Paul, she had another boyfriend in a different city as well as “several” others…

    “Paul was a friend of my brother’s. And I met him and we sort of did things together,” Mary explained on Sue Perkins’ An Hour or So With… podcast.

    Mary then cheekily revealed: “But I had another boyfriend in Bath, and he was in London and I used to go home at the weekend… Paul was the London one and I had a Bath one, actually there were several in Bath. You keep your options open.”


    She shared a health update recently (Credit: SplashNews.com)

    Paul’s horror accident at home

    In October, Mary revealed that Paul had an accident at home and broke several ribs.

    She told Saga magazine: “He’s just had a tumble with broken ribs. I’m very sympathetic about that. But he’s getting better day by day. Soon we’ll have him back to his own old self.”

    Mary went on: “I love my husband far more now than I’ve ever done before. Now, in his dotage, he’s not so well. It’s a sheer pleasure looking after him, because he’s so grateful.”

    A month later, Mary issued a health update on husband Paul. Talking to Yours Magazine, Mary reflected on her age and revealed she feels “so lucky” to be in good health. However, she then noted that Paul isn’t as lucky as she is health-wise.

    “He’s terribly frail, but very cherished and well looked after,” she said.

    Mary went on: “Just as I was leaving, I gave him a little plate of smoked salmon, a wedge of lemon, and I cut the crusts off the bread. And though he doesn’t have a drink with it, I’ll do the drinking when I get in.”

    Watch A Mary Berry Christmas on Sunday (December 21) at 12:00pm on BBC One.

  • WESTMINSTER IN CHAOS!  Nigel Farage DROPS Reform UK’s FIRST LAW — and PARLIAMENT LOSES CONTROL DD

    WESTMINSTER IN CHAOS!  Nigel Farage DROPS Reform UK’s FIRST LAW — and PARLIAMENT LOSES CONTROL DD

    WESTMINSTER IN CHAOS!  Nigel Farage DROPS Reform UK’s FIRST LAW — and PARLIAMENT LOSES CONTROL

    Parliament erupted into chaos as Nigel Farage dramatically introduced Reform UK’s first-ever proposed law live in the chamber, igniting fierce interruptions and an explosive debate over sovereignty and democratic control. This landmark moment has thrust the heated battle for Britain’s political future into the spotlight like never before.

    The session began with Farage calling for order amid growing shouts and interjections, setting the stage for what would become a blistering confrontation. His motion sought to restore full power to Parliament, emphasizing the independence and sovereignty of the British people following years of political turmoil.

    Farage’s speech directly challenged prevailing conventions, accusing certain factions within Parliament of undermining the democratic mandate delivered by millions during the 2016 Brexit referendum. “This bill intends to restore the power of this parliament,” he declared, underscoring the urgency of reclaiming control over immigration and lawmaking from external influences.

    The reaction from MPs was immediate and vocal. Attempts to silence Farage only fueled the theatrical disorder, highlighting deep divisions within the chamber. His call for respect and serious debate was met with jeers and interruptions, revealing heightened tensions over Britain’s constitutional identity.

    At the heart of the controversy lies the 1998 convention, which Farage argued allows parliamentary decisions to be overruled, effectively stripping elected representatives of sovereign authority. “We could literally be overruled,” he warned, igniting fierce debate on the limits of British legislative autonomy.

    Sovereignty emerged as the battle cry, with Farage positioning Reform UK’s bill as a crucial step toward rekindling democratic trust. His emphasis on “the power of our parliament” struck a nerve among MPs and citizens alike, raising fundamental questions about the nation’s self-governance and future direction.

    The speech also unveiled bitter frustrations simmering within Parliament and the electorate. Farage’s pointed remarks targeted the Liberal Democrats and critics, accusing them of betraying democratic principles and the legacy of British common law. The confrontation 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓸𝓼𝓮𝓭 raw emotions and unresolved tensions festering in Westminster.

    While mainstream media outlets are expected to bypass or downplay this upheaval, the moment shines an unfiltered light on Britain’s struggle to define its sovereignty in the post-Brexit era. The explosive exchange encapsulates broader anxieties about identity, governance, and the grip of supranational agreements.

    This event marks a pivotal confrontation that may reshape political discourse. Farage’s bold move disrupts conventional parliamentary decorum and forces a reckoning with issues long avoided or diluted within official debate. The question now is whether his proposed bill will gain traction or deepen existing fractures.

    Analysts note that the surrounding chaos—equal parts theatrical and substantive—reflects a Parliament grappling with frustration and resistance to change. The session 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓸𝓼𝓮𝓭 a disconnect between elected officials and parts of the public demanding greater legislative independence and accountability.

    As the turmoil unfolded, Farage maintained a laser focus on his message: reclaiming sovereignty and rebuilding trust in British democracy. His forceful rhetoric cut through the noise, highlighting the stakes involved as Britain wrestles with its identity and political future post-EU membership.

    Observers warn that the intense clash signals ongoing instability and polarization within the UK’s governing bodies. Farage’s intervention has rekindled debate around constitutional reforms, potentially shaping legislative priorities and party strategies in the months ahead.

    In sum, the chaotic parliamentary scene triggered by Farage’s bill launch reveals deep fissures about who truly holds power in Britain. His challenge to established norms calls for urgent reflection on democratic processes and national self-determination at a critical historical juncture.

    This explosive parliamentary moment will dominate headlines and political discussions, underscoring the enduring battle over sovereignty and democratic authority in Britain. As the story develops, all eyes remain fixed on Westminster to see whether this bold gambit reshapes the UK’s constitutional landscape.

  • “INCOMPETENT!” — EU SLAMS STARMER IN HUMILIATING VETO  Keir Stɑrmer hɑs suffered ɑ stunning blow ɑfter the Europeɑn Union blocked his plɑn to tɑp Russiɑn-linked funds — brɑnding the move bɑd leɑdership ɑnd leɑving Britɑin sidelined on the world stɑge. DD

    “INCOMPETENT!” — EU SLAMS STARMER IN HUMILIATING VETO  Keir Stɑrmer hɑs suffered ɑ stunning blow ɑfter the Europeɑn Union blocked his plɑn to tɑp Russiɑn-linked funds — brɑnding the move bɑd leɑdership ɑnd leɑving Britɑin sidelined on the world stɑge. DD

    “INCOMPETENT!” — EU SLAMS STARMER IN HUMILIATING VETO  Keir Stɑrmer hɑs suffered ɑ stunning blow ɑfter the Europeɑn Union blocked his plɑn to tɑp Russiɑn-linked funds — brɑnding the move bɑd leɑdership ɑnd leɑving Britɑin sidelined on the world stɑge.

    Keir Starmer’s Ukraine plans snubbed by EU as Brussels approves mega-fund to fend off Russia

    WATCH: Britain is example of ‘BAD leadership’ on migrant crisis and Ukraine: Balazs Orban

    The PM has long pushed to use seized Russian cash to fund Ukraine – but had faced fierce resistance

    Sir Keir Starmer’s plans for how to fund Ukraine have been snubbed by the EU as the bloc instead agreed on a huge €90billion fund of its own members’ money.

    In the early hours of Friday morning, Brussels agreed to hand out the 11-figure interest free loan – despite Britain’s wishes.

    In the lead-up to that decision, the British Government had pushed to repurpose frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine.

    Belgium had consistently stood in the UK’s way – chiefly because an estimated €185billion of Russian cash is tied up there.

    It also was wary of potential future reprisals from Russia – with Prime Minister Bart De Wever revealing he had been “threatened” by Kremlin agents over the funds in the past.

    Mr De Wever had said earlier this month: “Moscow has let us know that in the event of a seizure, Belgium and I personally will feel the effects for eternity.”

    Sir Keir’s official spokesman was repeatedly asked on Thursday if Britain would be ready to share the risk of thawing out the Russian assets for use in Ukraine.

    “I think it’s evident within the Government’s actions that what we want to see is those immobilised assets used to support Ukraine,” he said.

    PICTURED: Belgian PM Bart De Wever meets Sir Keir Starmer. Belgium had consistently stood in the UK’s way on Russian cash – chiefly because an estimated €185billion of it is tied up there

    “We believe delivering these funds sends a very clear signal to Putin that he cannot outlast the support of the UK and our allies, that is what we remain focused on.”

    Sir Keir may be handed a slight reprieve from Brussels – at the late-night meeting, the European Commission was given a mandate to find a way to free up the assets – but bloc bigwigs admitted that option would not work in the short term.

    And Volodymyr Zelensky has long supported any move to send Russian money his way.

    Though even if the EU does find a way to free up the funds, it would still have to persuade its Russia-friendly members to back it.

    Volodymyr Zelensky has long supported any move to send Russian money his way

    Hungary’s Viktor Orban has long opposed any such move.

    But his country, alongside Slovakia and the Czech Republic, agreed to let the scheme go ahead as long as it did not impact them financially.

    Mr Orban then branded the €90billion sum “lost money”.

    “Orban got what he wanted: no reparation loan. And EU action without participation of Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovakia,” one EU diplomat said.

    Hungary’s Viktor Orban has long opposed any move to repurpose Russian assets to fund Ukraine

    Several EU leaders arriving at the summit said the bloc had to find a solution to keep Ukraine financed and fighting for the next two years.

    Without Friday morning’s agreed loan, it’s thought Volodymyr Zelensky would run out of money by halfway through next year – leaving him at high risk of capitulation to Russia.

    Bureaucrats were also keen to show European countries’ strength and resolve after Donald Trump called them “weak”.

    “We just can’t afford to fail,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said.

  • “WE ARE DEEPLY SORRY…”  British Transport Police have shared a heartbreaking update after the tragic death of Daisy House, 16, following a hσɾɾific incident at a London Tube station. The cause of the Ϯɾɑgeɗy has now come to light — leaving a family devastated and a community in mourning. DD

    “WE ARE DEEPLY SORRY…”  British Transport Police have shared a heartbreaking update after the tragic death of Daisy House, 16, following a hσɾɾific incident at a London Tube station. The cause of the Ϯɾɑgeɗy has now come to light — leaving a family devastated and a community in mourning. DD

    “WE ARE DEEPLY SORRY…”  British Transport Police have shared a heartbreaking update after the tragic death of Daisy House, 16, following a hσɾɾific incident at a London Tube station. The cause of the Ϯɾɑgeɗy has now come to light — leaving a family devastated and a community in mourning.

    The family of a teenage girl who died after a horrific incident at a London tube station has paid tribute to their ‘bright, beautiful, clever and funny’ daughter.

    British Transport Police were called to Loughton Underground Station in Essex following reports of a ‘casualty on the tracks’ at 2.30pm on December 15.

    Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Daisy House, 16, passed away that same day in hospital.

    Transport for London suspended travel between Epping and Woodford whilst police and paramedics secured the scene on Monday.

    The incident is not being treated as suspicious but the British Transport Police are now preparing a file for the coroner ahead of an inquest.

    In a statement released today, Daisy was described as a ‘bright, beautiful, clever and funny girl’ who had ‘her whole future ahead of her.

    Accompanying an image of the 16-year-old, her devastated family wrote: ‘On Monday, our beautiful daughter Daisy lost her life.

    ‘She was a bright, beautiful, clever, and funny girl who had just started Sixth Form and had her whole future ahead of her.

    Daisy House (pictured), 16, was described as ‘bright, beautiful, clever and funny’

    British Transport Police were called to Loughton Underground Station (pictured) in Essex following reports of a ‘casualty on the tracks’ at 2.30pm on December 15

    ‘We would like to thank all of the emergency services and doctors who worked so hard to save her, especially the British Transport Police officer and paediatric nurses who treated us all with such kindness.

    ‘We thank everyone who has sent best wishes, kind messages, and floral tributes.’

    The family ended their statement by asking for their privacy to be respected ‘while we come to terms with the loss of our Daisy and what life will be like without our daughter.’

    It comes just months after another person was pronounced dead following a ‘medical emergency’ at Loughton tube station on February 24.

    The passenger is believed to have taken ill at around 6.50am before the British Transport Police were called at 7.30am.

    The station on the Central line was closed for four hours causing delays between Leytonstone and Epping.

    Sadly, the person was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The British Transport Police confirmed they were not treating the death as suspicious.

  • STRICTLY’S MOST EMOTIONAL MOMENT EVER Carlos Gu BREAKS DOWN in TEARS as He Lifts the Trophy With Karen Carney DD

    STRICTLY’S MOST EMOTIONAL MOMENT EVER Carlos Gu BREAKS DOWN in TEARS as He Lifts the Trophy With Karen Carney DD

    STRICTLY’S MOST EMOTIONAL MOMENT EVER Carlos Gu BREAKS DOWN in TEARS as He Lifts the Trophy With Karen Carney

    Strictly’s Carlos Gu breaks down as he addresses why he didn’t receive a celeb partner in previous years in heartbreaking confession before lifting glitterball trophy with Karen Carney

    Strictly Come Dancing professional Carlos Gu was overcome with emotion during the live final on Saturday night, as he made a candid admission about his journey on the show.

    Carlos reached the final alongside England Lioness Karen Carney, with the pair taking to the dance floor for their final three routines before sensationally winning the competition.

    However after their final dance, their jive, a football-themed performance set to Blondie’s One Way or Another, Carlos was visibly upset as he faced the judges standing next to Karen.

    Moments later, his emotions spilled over in the Clauditorium while speaking to host Claudia Winkleman, who pointed out how often he had credited Karen for teaching him valuable lessons.

    Struggling to compose himself, Carlos tearfully told viewers: ‘She’s changed my life. I I think she’s the best thing that I’ve ever had in 2025’.

    He went on to admit that before joining the series he had been overly focused on himself, adding: ‘I came to Strictly after competitive life, I was self centred, I was ‘me, me, me’.

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    Strictly Come Dancing professional Carlos Gu was overcome with emotion during the live final on Saturday night, as he made a candid admission about his journey on the show


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    Carlos reached the final alongside England Lioness Karen Carney, with the pair taking to the dance floor for their final three routines in the fight for the glitter ball trophy

    Carlos then shared why he thinks he hasn’t received a partner in previous years as he added: ‘I’ve been [here] the last three years – no wonder I didn’t get partner last year because I’m not grateful and she…she…’

    Breaking down further, he reflected on how Karen had helped him grow both personally and professionally, saying she taught him kindness, humility and the importance of teamwork.

    ‘For the first time, I learned to be a team player,’ he said, before pausing to gather himself.

    Claudia moved in to comfort the dancer saying: ‘Oh Carlos, you are! You are a team player. You are, and we love you and your partnership is everything.

    ‘You’re okay, baby. You’re amazing.’

    The moment was followed by a perfect score of 40 from the judges, which left both Carlos and Karen in tears once again.

    The raw exchange struck a chord with viewers at home, many of whom said they were left emotional by Carlos’s openness.

    ‘i don’t cry in front of my mum EVER but carlos has just brought the tears i am a mess rn #strictly’;


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    Struggling to compose himself, Carlos tearfully told viewers: ‘She’s changed my life. I I think she’s the best thing that I’ve ever had in 2025’


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    Breaking down further, he reflected on how Karen had helped him grow both personally and professionally, saying she taught him kindness, humility and the importance of teamwork


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    Claudia moved in to comfort the dancer saying: ‘Oh Carlos, you are! You are a team player. You are, and we love you and your partnership is everything’


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    The moment was followed by a perfect score of 40 from the judges, which left both Carlos and Karen in tears once again

    The raw exchange struck a chord with viewers at home, many of whom said they were left emotional by Carlos’s openness

    Join the debate

    Did Karen deserve to win Strictly

    ‘carlos ilysm pls don’t cry ur my fav #Strictly’; ‘OMG Carlos having a breakdown #Strictly’

    ‘Carlos having a mini breakdown and therapy session in the Clauditorium – never change #strictly’

    The scene proved to be a defining one in the final and just minutes later, the pair were crowned Strictly Come Dancing champions, beating fellow finalists George Clarke and Amber Davies.

    A stunned Karen struggled to take in the win, telling the audience: ‘I cannot believe it. I just want to say thank you to everybody that’s supported our journey, supported us, and thank you to this wonderful gentleman.

    ‘We are a team, and I could not have done this without you. But honestly, I can’t believe it, and it’s been the biggest privilege and honour, and literally, I’m lost for words. I’m so sorry.’

    Before the result, Tess and Claudia received a special tribute VT after this year’s series highlights were aired.

    However, they were left blown away as Craig Revel Horwood read out a special letter from Her Majesty The Queen.

    It said: ‘Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.

    ‘I have often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships, the bonds forged, the struggles overcome, and the joy shared in undertaking a joint endeavour.

    ‘If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest strictly partnership of all. The warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness you have radiated with and from each other has been at the heart of the show’s success.


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    Karen and Carlos went on to win Strictly Come Dancing 2025 whilst Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bid goodbye to viewers in an emotional finale

    ‘I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fabulous. I wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next, but as one who has appreciated its lifelong benefits, do promise us one thing, keep dancing.

    ‘With the warmest gratitude and admiration, Her Royal Highness, Queen Camilla.’

    The show had opened as Claudia wore her trademark black jacket with a white blouse and revealed how ‘keep dancing’ had been stitched onto the back – a nod to her and Tess’ famous slogan.

    Tess opted for a stunning rose-gold sequined dress that featured a daring thigh-high slit and shoulderless design.

  • Meghan & Harry Share CLEAREST Photos Yet of Archie & Lilibet — Fans Can’t Get Over It! DD

    Meghan & Harry Share CLEAREST Photos Yet of Archie & Lilibet — Fans Can’t Get Over It! DD

    Meghan & Harry Share CLEAREST Photos Yet of Archie & Lilibet — Fans Can’t Get Over It!

    Meghan and Harry share clearest photos of Archie and Lilibet yet

    The Sussexes have revealed their new family photo and a ‘Happy Holidays’ video featuring Archie and Lilibet.

    Meghan Markle shared a family snap on her Instagram today ahead of Christmas, showing the beaming couple with their two children, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four.

    The candid family portrait taken in the soft California sun shows Prince Harry holding Archie’s face who has his arms wrapped around the Duke of Sussex, while Meghan leans towards Lilibet holding her daughter’s hands.

    Her caption says: ‘Happy Holidays! From our family to yours.’


    The Sussexes’ family portrait shows Meghan and Harry with Archie and Lilibet, whose faces are still largely hidden (Picture: Instagram/@meghan)

    Some hours earlier, Harry and Meghan had released a ‘Happy Holidays’ video detailing what the Sussexes have been up to this year.

    In an almost two-minute video, viewers see the couple’s charity work and the people they have met, with a festive, jazzy tune playing on the background.

    Those viewers who stick to watching the video until the end are awarded with a glimpse of Archie and Lilibet helping Meghan and Harry push a tray of baked goodies, with the family donning aprons and caps.

    The clip, only showing Lilibet and Archie from behind, was taken at an LA charity called Our Big Kitchen helping the poor and homeless on Thanksgiving.


    The Prince and Princess of Wales have also released their annual family portrait (Picture: Kensington Palace)
    Harry and Meghan also put out their official Christmas card, showing the couple smiling and dressed in winter attire at the Invictus Games in Canada in February.

    The Sussexes’ seasonal greeting comes after William and Catharine released their new family portrait for their 2025 Christmas card.

    It shows the Prince and Princess of Wales sitting on grass surrounded by daffodils with Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, seven.

    Meghan, 44, and Harry, 41, have kept themselves busy while working on their Netflix ventures this year.

    The lifestyle show, ‘With Love, Meghan’, premiered on the streaming platform in March, and they are reportedly stepping into producing a rom-com adaptation of the novel ‘The Wedding Date’ via Archewell Productions.

    The Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation charity is undergoing a rebranding. It will be called Archewell Philanthropies. The charity has donated money to support children in Gaza, Ukraine and WHO projects.

    Elsewhere, King Charles shared a personal update about his cancer journey last week via a video message.

    The monarch revealed that his cancer treatment is being reduced in the new year, thanks to an early diagnosis, successful care and following doctors’ orders.

    The 77-year-old urged nine million people in the UK who are not up to date with their cancer screenings to take up their invitation to get ‘the chance to enable early detection, with the life-saving intervention that can follow.’

  •  “LET GO, ALBANESE – YOU’VE TURNED AUSTRALIA INTO A BATTLEFIELD!” Pauline Hanson cried out in tears, calling on millions of Australians to “take to the streets and overthrow” the government after the horrific Bondi massacre. She angrily slammed her hand on the table, accusing the prime minister of being “as weak as a lamb” and plunging the country into a security hell, causing a social media frenzy. Thousands of likes poured in, dividing Australia into two camps: one weeping for the victims, the other furiously demanding justice. Details of the drama below  DD

     “LET GO, ALBANESE – YOU’VE TURNED AUSTRALIA INTO A BATTLEFIELD!” Pauline Hanson cried out in tears, calling on millions of Australians to “take to the streets and overthrow” the government after the horrific Bondi massacre. She angrily slammed her hand on the table, accusing the prime minister of being “as weak as a lamb” and plunging the country into a security hell, causing a social media frenzy. Thousands of likes poured in, dividing Australia into two camps: one weeping for the victims, the other furiously demanding justice. Details of the drama below  DD

     “LET GO, ALBANESE – YOU’VE TURNED AUSTRALIA INTO A BATTLEFIELD!” Pauline Hanson cried out in tears, calling on millions of Australians to “take to the streets and overthrow” the government after the horrific Bondi massacre. She angrily slammed her hand on the table, accusing the prime minister of being “as weak as a lamb” and plunging the country into a security hell, causing a social media frenzy. Thousands of likes poured in, dividing Australia into two camps: one weeping for the victims, the other furiously demanding justice. Details of the drama below

     “LET GO, ALBANESE – YOU’VE TURNED AUSTRALIA INTO A BATTLEFIELD!” Pauline Hanson cried out in tears, calling on millions of Australians to “take to the streets and overthrow” the government after the horrific Bondi massacre. She angrily slammed her hand on the table, accusing the prime minister of being “as weak as a lamb” and plunging the country into a security hell, causing a social media frenzy. Thousands of likes poured in, dividing Australia into two camps: one weeping for the victims, the other furiously demanding justice. Details of the drama below

    In the immediate aftermath of the Bondi massacre, shock rippled nationwide as Pauline Hanson’s emotional outburst dominated broadcasts, framed as a raw reaction to grief, fear, and political frustration.

    Witnesses described Hanson trembling, tears visible, as she accused leadership failures, language that quickly spread online, detached from context, fueling anxiety while authorities urged calm and respect for ongoing investigations.

    Officials confirmed the incident remained under active investigation, stressing facts over speculation, while emergency services continued supporting victims’ families and coordinating with local communities traumatized by sudden violence.

    Government representatives rejected calls for unrest, emphasizing democratic processes, lawful protest rights, and the dangers of rhetoric that could escalate tensions during fragile moments of national mourning and collective vulnerability.

    Security agencies reiterated there was no broader threat escalation, though patrols increased temporarily, reassuring residents and visitors while reinforcing cooperation between federal, state, and community partners across affected areas.

    Political analysts noted how emotionally charged language often amplifies online engagement, transforming grief into polarizing narratives that reward outrage, clicks, and virality within algorithm-driven platforms and attention economies.

    Supporters defended Hanson’s comments as symbolic anger, arguing citizens feel unheard after repeated warnings, while critics warned calls interpreted as insurrectionary undermine stability, trust, and constitutional norms.

    Social media metrics surged, with thousands of likes, shares, and comments, revealing two camps: mourners demanding compassion and restraint, and activists pressing leaders for accountability and sweeping security reforms.

    Platform moderators faced scrutiny over content amplification, balancing free expression with harm prevention, as misinformation and edited clips circulated without timestamps, sources, or verification.

    Community leaders urged unity, organizing vigils and counseling services, reminding Australians that collective healing requires empathy, accurate information, and rejection of hate-driven scapegoating.

    Law enforcement briefings emphasized cooperation with intelligence partners, data analysis, and targeted prevention, cautioning against conflating migration, religion, or ethnicity with criminal acts.

    Civil liberties organizations stressed proportional responses, warning emergency measures must be lawful, time-limited, and evidence-based to preserve rights while improving safety outcomes.

    Economic impacts emerged locally, with brief tourism cancellations near Bondi, prompting reassurance campaigns highlighting resilience, safety protocols, and community solidarity supporting workers and small businesses.

    Inside parliament, urgent sessions debated victim compensation, mental health funding, and prevention strategies, reflecting cross-party acknowledgment that trauma recovery requires sustained investment and coordination.

    Media ethicists questioned headline framing, noting how sensational quotes can eclipse nuance, distort intent, and accelerate polarization before verified details mature.

    International partners offered condolences and intelligence cooperation, underscoring shared challenges combating extremism while safeguarding democratic values and social cohesion.

    As days progressed, investigators interviewed witnesses, reviewed footage, and traced timelines, emphasizing due process and cautioning against premature conclusions that could compromise justice.

    Political strategists assessed electoral consequences, observing hardline rhetoric mobilizes bases but risks alienating moderates seeking stability, evidence, and unity during crisis periods.

    Victim advocates centered survivors’ voices, urging privacy, dignity, and long-term support, warning politicization can retraumatize families already navigating profound loss.

    Academic experts contextualized public reactions, explaining crises often trigger fear-driven proposals, while effective policy requires data, transparency, and measured evaluation.

    Public forums reflected complex emotions, blending grief, anger, and resolve, as citizens debated safety priorities while reaffirming pluralism and democratic norms.

    Within parliament, heated debates unfolded, legislation proposed, amendments questioned, and tempers tested, yet procedures held, illustrating institutional strength under emotional pressure following tragic national events and public outrage nationwide recently.

    Commentators urged slowing the news cycle, prioritizing verified updates, context, and empathy, cautioning against viral outrage shaping policy before evidence is fully examined by investigators and commissions reviewing security failures.

    Schools and workplaces held moments of silence, fostering reflection, conversations about safety, and collective care, reinforcing shared values despite political disagreement and media noise felt nationwide after Bondi tragedy unfolded.

    As days passed, rhetoric softened slightly, grief settled deeper, and attention shifted toward practical reforms, funding, and long term prevention strategies discussed across councils, parliaments, agencies, and communities nationwide today.

    Survivors shared testimonies describing chaos, courage, and kindness, narratives humanizing statistics, shaping public understanding, and reinforcing urgency for thoughtful, humane policy responses from leaders, agencies, and citizens alike nationwide now.

    Ultimately, Australia confronted hard questions about security, speech, leadership, and unity, balancing freedom with safety while honoring victims through measured, democratic action rather than impulsive reactions driven by fear alone.

    The Bondi massacre became a somber catalyst, testing institutions, media ethics, and civic maturity, reminding the nation that resilience depends on restraint, empathy, and truth during times of national crisis.

    While anger echoed loudly online, quieter acts of compassion persisted, volunteers helping strangers, neighbors checking neighbors, proving social fabric endured beyond viral fury sparked by inflammatory statements and debates nationwide.

    History suggests moments like these shape futures, either deepening division or strengthening democracy, depending on choices made by leaders, media, and citizens alike during aftermaths of violence and tragedy nationally.

    As Australia moves forward, accountability, compassion, and calm discourse may determine whether healing prevails, ensuring victims are honored not by rage, but by resolve guiding future security policies and unity.