A contestant named Joe drew gasps and giggles when he answered Gladiators host Bradley Walsh’s innocent question with a very suggestive answer during heat two of the contest

Bradley Walsh was left scrambling to retain control on Gladiators as a contestant made a very cheeky comment.

The hit BBC revival is back for a second season – with a batch of new contenders taking to the stadium for the second heat. A number of hopefuls went up against athletic Gladiators such as Athena, Dynamite and Giant in the hope of making it through to the next round and the chance to win the official show trophy.

On Saturday night, a contestant named Joe took to the ring to begin his attempt in the latest round of challenges – and show host Bradley, 64, was on hand to introduce him to the audience. But there was gasps and burst of laughter when Joe was asked a simple question that provoked a suggestive answer.

With a hand around the contender, Bradley said: “Joe, welcome. Welcome. We’ve got some fans in, Joe.” The then cameras cut to the audience – with many shown wearing t-shirts and holding boards containing messages of encouragement to Joe and some even sporting fake beards to mirror his natural bushy facial hair.

A Gladiators contender named Joe caused Bradley Walsh sweat with a provocative comment ( 
Image:
BBC)

Looking at his supporters, Joe confirmed: “Yeah, that’s my lot over there.” Bradley then remarked: “And they’ve got their false beards.” But Joe replied: “Yeah, not quite like this one, though.”

Agreeing, Bradley said: “That’s a corker, that.” He then pressed on, saying: “Now, listen. If you were a Gladiator, then, what would your name be?” It was a question Bradley may have come to regret as Joe cheekily replied: “My brother gave me an idea. He said I’d be called The Penetrator.” As the audience burst into laughter, Bradley did what he could to restore decorum, telling the contender to “Watch it.”

Ahead of the current season, Bradley and his 27-year-old son Barney Walsh, who co-hosts the show, revealed the challenges had been made more difficult for the new batch of contestants. Bradley revealed to the BBC: “The new series is just fantastic, the Gladiators mean business and they are back tougher than before.

Bradley hadn’t anticipated the X-rated joke ( 
Image:
BBC)
“There are some new events this series including the return of a fan favourite, and throughout the series lots of other exciting surprises. The contenders now have helmet cameras fitted, you might have seen from the celebrity special, so you can literally see what they are faced with when going up against the Gladiators. It’s a great new feature and brings a whole new dimension to what you see.”

While Barney added: “One of the new games is called Unleash. The contenders start in a smoke filled tunnel and race around a track and up some steps to grab the winning flag, but an unknown Gladiator is unleashed behind them trying to chase them down. You’re going to love it.”

He added: “I think the public have really connected with the Gladiators because they have strong identities, all with slightly different strengths and disciplines and all with distinctive moves – so everyone can have a different favourite. All the Gladiators are incredible athletes, they are inspiring and super competitive but respect the contenders and bring great sportsmanship… well, apart from Legend and Viper.”

Holly Willoughby quit This Morning in 2023 after a horrifying kidnap plot against her was foiled – and she exited the ITV show five months after disgraced co-star Phillip Schofield

Holly Willoughby has said it was “easy” to reach her decision to quit This Morning two years ago.

The 43-year-old mother-of-three was a co-host on ITV’s long-running daytime TV show from 2009 until she abruptly quit in 2023 after it was discovered a man plotted to kidnap, rape and murder her.

Next month, Holly will appear as a host on a new Netflix reality show called Celebrity Bear Hunt which will see a number of stars attempt to avoid detection from adventurer Bear Grylls while traversing jungle ground in Costa Rica. It has been billed as her blockbuster return to TV after she quit This Morning – although she does continue to host ITV’s winter sport reality contest Dancing On Ice.

This weekend, Holly has candidly opened up about the end of her time at This Morning – presenting role that cemented her as a household name after she began her career working in kids TV and light entertainment. On October 5, 2023, Holly was rushed to safety after police informed her of Gavin Plumb’s vile plot. She was replaced on the ITV flagship show by Alison Hammond.

And in a concise seven words about her departure, she declared: “The choice was really simple and easy.”

Holly hosted This Morning alongside Phillip Schofield from 2009 until 2023 ( 
Image:
ITV)
Speaking to The Sunday Times Style magazine, she reflected on whether or not it was “terrifying” to walk away from the job that had been her steady form of income for well over a decade. She replied: “That question is wrapped up in so many things that were going on at that time. But no. That was the last thing on my mind. The choice [to step away] was really simple and easy, actually.”

When the details surrounding the plot emerged, Holly was forced to miss out on important things with her children, including taking them to school and attending assemblies. But Holly also admits that she’s now grateful for the time she had with her children before they progress with their education.

Holly stunned fans in October 2023 when she revealed she was quitting This Morning with immediate effect. She announced in a statement at the time: “I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much.

“This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we’ve done together. Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you.

“Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You’ve been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day. Richard and Judy said ‘we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers’.

“It’s been an honour to just be part of its story and I know this story has many chapters left to go. Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much.”

The details of Plumb’s vile plans were too disturbing to be reported ( 
Image:
PA)
Gavin Plumb was found guilty of soliciting murder, encouraging or assisting the commission of kidnap, and encouraging or assisting the commission of rape and was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 16 years for his vile crimes. During the trial, Holly waived her right to anonymity, although her victim impact statement was not shared. Judge Mr Justice Edward Murray who sentenced Plumb stated that his plans were too disturbing to be reported.

He added that the classified document should only be shown to those who “needed to see it.” He explained that the offences had life-changing consequences for Holly, both personally and professionally, after Plumb had managed to discover details about her journey to work as well as accurate timings. Mr Justice Edward Murray also told Plumb he had “no doubt” the security guard’s plans for Willoughby were “considerably more than a fantasy”. “I have no doubt that this was all considerably more than a fantasy to you,” he told the court.

He was sentenced to life behind bars and ordered to serve a minimum of 16 years ( 
Image:
PA)
Although Holly decided to keep her witness statement private, Alison Morgan KC told the court: “What I can say, and I make this submission from the prosecution… it is abundantly clear that in making that statement the prosecution submits the impact of this offending has been life-changing for the victim of these offences – both in private and personal terms – private, personal and indeed professional.

“It is clear, the prosecution submits… that the extent of the shock and fear caused by this offending has been impossible to convey.” She added that the plans had a “catastrophic impact” on her life and there were “no meaningful mitigating factors” and urged for Plumb to be handed a life sentence.

Fans can watch Holly presenting Celebrity Bear Hunt when it becomes available to stream via Netflix on 5 February. Spice Girl Mel B, TV host Steph McGovern and Strictly judge Shirley Ballas are among the stars taking part on the show.

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Prince William FINALLY Revealed The Shocking Decision On Queen Camilla: A Game-Changer for the Royal Family

In a surprising turn of events, Prince William has finally broken his silence on a topic that has been the subject of intense speculation for years. The future of Queen Camilla, wife of King Charles III, has been under intense scrutiny ever since their marriage in 2005, and now Prince William, the heir to the British throne, has shared his thoughts on the matter in an unexpected and groundbreaking revelation. This move has sent shockwaves through the royal family, stirring both admiration and concern within the palace walls and beyond.

The Long-Awaited Revelation

Prince William’s statement comes after years of public curiosity about Queen Camilla’s role within the royal family, especially following the passing of Prince Philip and the ascension of King Charles to the throne. As the first wife of King Charles, Diana, Princess of Wales, remains one of the most beloved figures in modern royal history, questions about Camilla’s position have always lingered. Would she be accepted by the public as Queen consort? How would she navigate the complexities of royal life after a turbulent past with Charles?

 

For years, Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry, have been relatively quiet about their stepmother. But now, with his own family and responsibilities growing, Prince William has felt compelled to make his position clear.

 

In a recent public appearance, Prince William dropped a bombshell, offering clarity on Queen Camilla’s role. He revealed that Camilla would continue to serve as Queen consort and that she would be integral in the future of the monarchy. But what truly shocked the world was the revelation that Prince William believes Camilla’s role will be “crucial” in the ongoing stability of the royal family, especially as King Charles moves forward in his reign.

A Shocking Decision for the Royal Family

For many, Prince William’s statement signals the start of a new era for the royal family. Although the public has generally warmed to Camilla in recent years, especially due to her charitable work and the deep love between her and King Charles, there has been some lingering skepticism. Prince William, however, believes Camilla’s contributions to the monarchy will be invaluable as the royal family adapts to modern times.

“The Queen consort’s role will be critical as the royal family progresses,” Prince William said, speaking candidly. “She has proven her commitment, and her support for my father has been unwavering. In many ways, she has helped shape the future of the monarchy.”

For those closely watching the royal family, this statement is seen as a clear endorsement from the future king himself. By giving Camilla such high praise, Prince William is acknowledging her place in royal history and reaffirming that she will be a significant figure in the monarchy’s evolution.

This marks a dramatic shift in the royal narrative, considering the past controversies that have surrounded Camilla’s relationship with King Charles. For years, Camilla was viewed with disdain by some members of the public due to her involvement in the breakdown of Charles and Diana’s marriage. However, since her marriage to Charles, Camilla has worked diligently to improve her public image, engaging in charity work and slowly gaining respect for her role in supporting her husband.

A Royal Family in Transition

Prince William’s remarks are also seen as a signal of the ongoing transformation of the British monarchy. As the monarchy faces increasing pressure to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world, the royal family has been working to modernize and align itself with the values of the 21st century. In this context, Queen Camilla represents a new kind of royal consort—one who is not afraid to speak out, challenge expectations, and support the monarchy’s progress in the face of adversity.

The revelation also comes at a time when the royal family is dealing with a range of complex issues, including tensions with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as public criticism regarding the monarchy’s historical connections to colonialism. With King Charles’s reign just beginning, the monarchy faces challenges in maintaining its relevance and popularity. Queen Camilla’s position, once a source of tension, now seems to be an asset in moving the royal family forward.

In a palace known for its formality and carefully constructed public images, Prince William’s open endorsement of Camilla’s role is seen as a progressive move that signals the royal family’s willingness to adapt and change with the times.

The Future of the Monarchy

Prince William’s statement also raises questions about the future of the monarchy as a whole. What does this mean for the royal family as it looks ahead to the next generation? What role will Prince William and his wife, Catherine, the Princess of Wales, play in this new chapter? While Prince William’s focus has largely been on his children and ensuring they are raised in a way that prepares them for their own future roles, he is now facing the prospect of one day becoming King himself.

What role will Camilla play when that day comes? As Prince William’s comments suggest, she will continue to play an important part in supporting the monarchy, and her presence is likely to remain vital for years to come. With Queen Camilla becoming an increasingly prominent figure, her influence over the royal family and her public image will undoubtedly continue to evolve.

A Monarchy for the Modern Age

Prince William’s unexpected comments regarding Queen Camilla signal a new era for the British royal family. No longer confined to the shadows of scandal or controversy, Queen Camilla now stands firmly beside King Charles as a symbol of stability and continuity for the monarchy. As the royal family prepares for the future, it’s clear that change is on the horizon, and Camilla’s position within the monarchy will continue to be a cornerstone of that transformation.

As for Prince William, his words suggest a growing confidence in his own role within the royal family and a commitment to modernizing the institution. With Camilla’s support and guidance, the monarchy may very well continue to thrive in the 21st century, even as the challenges of the modern world loom large.

The future is bright for the royal family, and with Queen Camilla firmly in place, the monarchy is poised to face whatever challenges the future may bring.

Breaking News: Princess Charlotte’s Surprising Reaction to Prince Harry’s Son, Archie

In an adorable and candid moment that has captured the hearts of royal watchers worldwide, Princess Charlotte was left stunned upon meeting her cousin, Prince Harry’s son, Archie, for the very first time.

According to onlookers, Charlotte’s eyes widened in amazement as she laid eyes on Archie, her cousin who had returned to the UK with Harry. She was particularly struck by one feature, exclaiming, “He has such unusual hair!”

The young princess’s remark quickly became a viral moment, with people across the globe commenting on the innocence and wonder of her reaction. Archie, with his distinctive red hair, has often been a point of fascination due to his striking resemblance to both his father, Prince Harry, and his late grandmother, Princess Diana.

This family reunion, though private, has sparked a renewed sense of connection among the royal family, with Charlotte’s curiosity about her cousin highlighting the innocence and joy that family moments can bring.

The meeting between the cousins comes after a long period of distance between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family, making this interaction even more special for those involved. Despite the public interest, insiders describe the moment as sweet and entirely natural, with both children getting to know each other as family should.

As the royal family continues to navigate their often-complex relationships, this innocent and pure moment between Charlotte and Archie offers a glimpse of the familial bonds that endure, regardless of the headlines.

The royal family started 2025 with a surprising reunion that no one saw coming. Prince Harry made a dramatic return to Buckingham Palace, bringing along his son Archie, now 6 years old, marking their first formal appearance as part of the royal fold since stepping back from their duties in 2020.

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A Long-Awaited Homecoming

The return to Buckingham Palace was an emotional moment for the royal family, with many eager to reconnect with Archie. Having grown up away from the public eye in California, Archie’s reintroduction to royal life was both joyful and bittersweet.

The reunion was part of what sources describe as Prince Harry’s efforts to rebuild bridges with his family after years of strained relationships and public disagreements. It also served as an opportunity for Archie to experience the heritage and traditions of his royal lineage for the first time in years.

Archie’s Hair Sparks Buzz

What caught everyone’s attention during this emotional reunion wasn’t just Archie’s presence—it was his hair. Royal watchers were left stunned by his thick, fiery red locks, bearing an uncanny resemblance to his father’s childhood appearance.

“Archie is the spitting image of Harry at that age, right down to the vibrant hair color,” an insider revealed. “It was a striking moment for the family to see how much he mirrors Harry in his youth.”
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The young royal’s hairstyle added an extra layer of fascination, with some noting how his modern, playful cut contrasted with the traditional appearances often associated with the royal family.

Reactions from the Royal Household

The reunion reportedly caught the palace off guard, with sources suggesting that King Charles was deeply moved by the gesture. “To see Archie standing there, holding Harry’s hand, was an emotional moment for everyone,” a palace insider shared.

While Prince William and Kate Middleton welcomed the return warmly, observers noted a degree of hesitation in their interactions, reflecting the lingering tensions that have defined the brothers’ relationship in recent years.

Meghan’s Absence Raises Questions

Notably absent from the reunion was Meghan Markle, who reportedly stayed back in California with their daughter, Lilibet. This decision has fueled speculation about her role in the reconciliation process and whether further efforts to mend fences with the royal family are on the horizon.
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A Step Toward Healing?

The reunion has sparked hope among royal fans that 2025 could mark a turning point for the Windsor family. With Archie now reintroduced to the royal fold, many are optimistic that this gesture symbolizes a willingness to heal old wounds and create a brighter future for the next generation of royals.

As the family moves forward, all eyes will be on whether this emotional moment is the first step in a broader reconciliation or a one-time event. Regardless, Archie’s return to Buckingham Palace has undoubtedly set the tone for a dramatic and intriguing year ahead for the royal family.

British royal family claiming William, Prince of Wales, had made a sad announcement about his wife, Kate, Princess of Wales. The posts all read, “Prince William makes the sad announcement that leaves fans in tears: ‘My wife it’s been…’” This same text was shared on Facebook in March, too.

This rumor emerged after a March 22 video announcement in which Kate disclosed she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy. The news followed King Charles III’s own cancer diagnosis, which was disclosed by Buckingham Palace on Feb. 5.

“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was noncancerous,” Kate said in the video. “The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy.”

Kate Middleton’s sad reality fingered by Prince William 

It’s been several months since Kate’s last official public appearance. Kensington Palace said in a statement that the Princess of Wales’ absence from the public eye is due to her recovery from a “planned abdominal surgery” on January 19. The official line from the palace is that she’ll be back soon.

 

 

Still, speculation hit a fever pitch on Monday after Kate Middleton admitted to editing a photograph Kensington Palace released of her and her children. Her admission — a statement shared on social media — only poured more fuel onto the rumor mill fire.

Worse still, the photo-editing scandal coincided with the spread of a new conspiracy theory: that Kate’s absence from the public is somehow connected to speculation Prince William had an affair with Sarah Rose Hanbury, the Marchioness of Cholmondeley, who is a friend of the Wales’ with ancestral ties to the royal family.

Kensington Palace declined to comment fueling further possibility of a relationship between Prince William and Hanbury.

However, Lady Rose Hanbury broke her silence amid rumours she had an affair with Kate Middleton’s husband, Prince William.

She spoke out over the weekend while Royal fans continued to speculate about Middleton’s disappearance from the public eye.

Hanbury told Business Insider — via her lawyers — that rumours she had an affair with William “are completely false”. But ample evidences available to reputable sources in the Royal Palace suggest otherwise.

Prince William made an appearance earlier today at a non-profit cycling organisation, looking suave and laid-back in a £130 Reiss shacket that’s flying off the shelves

The Duke of Cornwall made a public appearance today at Cycle of Life. While attending this non-profit cycling organisation, the Prince participated in various activities, from football to helping assemble bicycles. Looking suave and smart as ever, William donned an on-trend dark green ‘shacket’ that’s more affordable than you’d expect from a royal wardrobe.

But if you want to copy William’s cool attire, you’ll need to act fast; his £130 overshirt from Reiss is nearly sold out in all sizes, and only a handful of outlets still have stock. Here’s where to shop the Prince’s ensemble.

If your sizes have already flown from the virtual shelves, don’t fret; we’ve found some more budget-friendly options that are still available in a wide range of sizes.

“My Dear Grandson, You Look Just Like Your Father Harry!” – King Charles Exclaims After Meeting Harry’s Son for the First Time in Five Years: “Come, Claim Your New Title…”

In a highly emotional and heartwarming moment, King Charles was reunited with his grandson after five long years, and the monarch couldn’t help but be overcome with emotion as he gazed upon Harry’s son. “My dear grandson, you look just like your father Harry!” King Charles exclaimed, as he finally met the child for the first time in half a decade. The meeting, which had been eagerly awaited by royal insiders, marks a significant moment in the strained relationship between Prince Harry and the rest of the royal family.

The reunion took place in private, but details have begun to emerge, painting a picture of an emotional and tender moment between the King and his grandchild. The King, deeply moved by the resemblance between his grandson and Harry, was reportedly overcome with nostalgia, reflecting on the similarities between the young boy and his son, the Duke of Sussex.

The meeting also brought with it a surprise announcement: King Charles reportedly told the young boy, “Come, claim your new title…” signaling that the royal family might be ready to officially recognize Harry’s son and offer him a new role within the royal framework. The exact nature of this title remains unclear, but the gesture suggests a potential thaw in the relationship between Harry and the monarchy.

Sources close to the family suggest that this moment marks a hopeful turning point for the Sussex family and their future in the royal fold. After years of public tension, controversies, and distance, the reunion between King Charles and his grandson offers a glimpse of potential healing within the royal family.

Though the specifics of the new title have yet to be confirmed, the royal announcement has sparked widespread speculation. Could this mean a potential change in how Harry and his family are perceived by the public and the monarchy?

The moment has already become a topic of conversation among royal fans, with many expressing hope that this marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Sussexes and their relationship with King Charles and the royal family.

As the world continues to watch, the future of Harry’s family within the monarchy hangs in the balance, but the meeting with King Charles and the promise of a new title signals that, perhaps, reconciliation may be on the horizon.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are said to be ‘upset and bruised’ while ‘things are not good for them right now’ after a humiliating Vanity Fair article and the postponement of Meghan’s new Netflix show, it has been claimed

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are said to be “upset and bruised” following a scathing Vanity Fair article published last week, with claims that “things aren’t good for them right now.”

The feature, titled ‘Inside Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Big Business Ambitions, 5 Years After Their Royal Exit’, scrutinised the Sussexes’ post-royal endeavours. It included allegations such as someone from Meghan’s circle exploring a potential post-divorce book deal, and assertions that Beyoncé declined an invitation to appear on Meghan’s former podcast Archetypes.

The article even speculated about Harry being comfortable with Meghan being the primary breadwinner. This has left the Royal couple feeling “upset and bruised,” according to Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield, who spoke to Sky News Australia.

Schofield revealed that the couple were particularly disturbed by the piece, stating: “It is my understanding that they are upset over it [and] I’m being told that things aren’t good for them right now, between Meghan’s show being postponed, which I’ve heard was Netflix’s idea, and just the idea that she has worked so hard to rebrand herself and here comes a very respected publication reiterating some of the nastiest claims about her.”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have suffered another swipe ( 
Image:
Anadolu via Getty Images)

She added, “So I think they are bruised and they’re sitting back trying to figure out how to process going forward.”

Recently, at an event evaluating the couple’s reaction to the LA wildfires, Ms Schofield hinted that their actions may have had an unintended consequence, failing to win over the public’s sympathy as they might have intended, according to the Mirror US. Meghan’s forthcoming series, With Love, Meghan, has been rescheduled to premiere on March 4, after initially being set to air last week, reports the Express.

Before the original launch date, Meghan released a statement explaining the delay of the eight-part series, saying: “I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”

Meghan on the cover of Vanity Fair in 2017 ( 
Image:
Vanity Fair)

Beyoncé turned Meghan down, it is claimed ( 
Image:
Beyoncé/Instagram)
Netflix has already unveiled some of the show’s guests, including Roy Choi, Mindy Kaling, and Alice Waters, with the streaming service teasing “additional acclaimed chefs and special friends.”

As the show’s producer, Meghan aims to blend “practical how-to’s and candid conversation with friends, new and old,” according to Netflix. The streaming service added: “Meghan shares personal tips and tricks, embracing playfulness over perfection, and highlights how easy it can be to create beauty, even in the unexpected. She and her guests roll up their sleeves in the kitchen, the garden, and beyond, and invite you to do the same.”

Prince William visited a charity in Liverpool that uses cycling to improve physical and mental health – and while there he let slip the trick Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis like to pull while out on bike rides

Prince William has revealed how his children like to play a cheeky trick on him while out on family bike rides.

The Prince of Wales let slip Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis’ playful prank while in Liverpool visiting a charity that helps young people from diverse backgrounds improve their physical and mental health through cycling. The organisation called Cycle of Life is supported by Children in Need and while there he helped pump up a bicycle tyre and and enjoyed a hot chocolate as he met young people who had been helped by the initiative, which was set up in 2020.

William watches as youngsters fix bikes at Cycle of Life, a non-profit cycling organisation in Liverpool ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

As he tested the brakes on the bike he worked on, he said he believed the correct way to stop was to squeeze both brakes at the same time, but joked his children like to do things differently. He said: “My children quite like pulling just the back brake and sliding along. Usually, the back wheel will come past you. There is a technique.”

William was due to join a short bike ride from the centre in Princes Road, Toxteth, but it was cancelled due to heavy rain and wind. Later during his visit to Liverpool yesterday, William was mobbed by people waiting for selfies and was left starstruck by meeting former Liverpool player and manager Sir Kenny Dalglish.

The royal was engulfed by people as he left the new Tiber community and football centre on Tagus Street before making his way to a waiting car.

William with Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish and former Everton stars Ian Snodin and Graeme Stuart ( 
Image:
Iain Watts/Liverpool Echo)
He took a tour of the centre, which is due to be completed in February with the help of funding from The Royal Foundation’s community impact programme, met young people involved in fundraising for the project and joined in a game of football before meeting Sir Kenny and former Everton players Ian Snodin and Graham Stuart.

They discussed football, with William telling former Liverpool striker and manager Sir Kenny that his former team would probably “steamroll everyone” as they sit top of the Premier League before Stuart joked it could “come off the rails” when they next face Everton.

Asked about his involvement in the football game he played with young people at the centre, the prince said: “We’ll ignore that. It is the worst thing when you turn up and try to play cold.”

William is mobbed by well-wishers in Liverpool ( 
Image:
Getty Images)Earlier in the day, William left train passengers shocked when he hopped on a service from London to travel to Liverpool for the day. The prince, 42, travelled north from London to Liverpool on an Avanti West Coast service and when other passengers and staff boarded the train, they were stunned to see the future King sitting in a first-class carriage.

William was said to be seen smiling as he happily chatted away to other passengers in the carriage and railway staff and when he got off the train at Liverpool Lime Street Station, he cheerily said hello to those also disembarking.

Princess Anne has spoken out for the first time about a suspected horse accident that saw her spend five nights in hospital with concussion – and the valuable life lesson she has learned

Princess Anne has broken her silence on her horror horse incident that left her in hospital – and the frightening life lesson it has taught her.

King Charles’ sister was left concussed and bruised after the suspected accident involving a horse that saw her rushed to hospital. Speaking about the terrifying incident, the princess suggested she had a lucky escape from serious injury.

And her brush with an emergency last June appears to have taught her a valuable life lesson – that “every day is a bonus”. The Princess Royal revealed that she was on the way to see chickens on her Gatcombe Park estate when the accident happened but has no memory of what followed. Despite the uncertainty, her injuries indicated that the incident likely involved the princess being struck by a horse.

Anne during a visit to the South African Riding School for Disabled Association ( 
Image:
PA)
In an interview after a whirlwind two-day tour of Cape Town that ended on Wednesday, the King’s sister was asked about her future and whether retirement was an option and replied: “It really isn’t written in, no. It isn’t really an option, no, I don’t think so. You’re jolly lucky… if you can continue to be more or less compos mentis and last summer I was very close to not being Take each day as it comes, they say.”

Asked if she remembered anything about the accident she said: “No, nothing.” When questioned whether the last thing she recalled was walking into a field, Anne said: “No, don’t even remember that. I know where I thought I was going and that was to go to the chickens, no, nothing to do with horses.”

She added that seeing the chickens was “my regular visit, I don’t have any idea what I was doing in the field, because I never normally went that way. It just reminds you, shows you – you never quite know, something (happens) and you might not recover.”

Princess Anne at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWCG), Company’s Garden in Cape Town ( 
Image:
PA)
After the accident, an air ambulance and emergency services were dispatched to her Gloucestershire estate and, following medical care at the scene, the princess was transferred to Southmead Hospital in Bristol by road for tests, treatment and observation. The princess spent five nights in hospital after the accident on June 23 and did not return to public royal duties until almost three weeks later.

Asked about any lasting ill effects, she lightened the mood and joked: “Apparently not, at least I don’t think so. As far as I know, nobody else thinks so – they haven’t been honest enough to tell me yet. So far so good. You are sharply reminded that every day is a bonus really.”

Anne was due to visit South Africa with her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence but he missed the trip after suffering a suspected torn ligament from an injury he suffered while working on the Gatcombe estate.

Anne back in the UK today at Grand Military Gold Cup Day at Sandown Park Racecourse ( 
Image:
PA)During her Cape Town visit, Anne laid a wreath at a Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) memorial, the first to recognise the sacrifices of black South Africans and other races who died working as First World War labourers helping Britain’s war effort in east and south-west Africa.

She performed the task as CWGC president, a role that had been carried out by the Duke of Kent, 89, since 1970 with Anne taking over in 2023 due to his advancing years. The princess said: “I’m very lucky to take on from the Duke of Kent the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, but he’s been doing that for a very long time, he did it very well and has covered the globe in support of them.

“And I’m perfectly certain he was really reluctant to give that up, but in the end, he felt physically that he couldn’t travel as much, and he couldn’t be as efficient in supporting – and I was lucky enough to be asked.

“On the one hand, you go for as long as you can, but you have to accept there are some things you can’t do anymore, and he did that, and I’m the beneficiary of that which has allowed me to take that on.”

Anne is a key member of the King’s slimmed-down working monarchy and has played an important role as she stepped up in support of Charles amid his cancer diagnosis. The princess is also known for her no-nonsense approach and her commitment to royal duty. She carried out her first public engagement in 1969 aged 18 when she opened an educational and training centre in Shropshire and a year later began her longest association with a charity, becoming president of Save the Children and later patron.