MINUTES TO CHRISTMAS SWIM T𝗥AG𝗘DY  Just momeпts ɑfter this photo wɑs tɑkeп, two swimmers vɑпished ɑs ɑ festive trɑditioп turпed devɑstɑtiпg off Budleigh Sɑltertoп

Two wild swimmers were missing last night after an annual Christmas Day dip turned to disaster.

Several other swimmers had to be dragged to safety from the choppy waters at Budleigh Salterton as high winds created huge swells.

The two men – one in his 40s and the other in his 60s – had been taking part in a traditional swim off the coast of Devon when the alarm was raised at around 10.25am yesterday.

Images show dozens of people in swimwear and Santa hats screaming and laughing as they run into the crashing waves. But moments later, emergency services were called following reports of concern for several swimmers in the stormy waters.

Exmouth and Beer Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats and a search and rescue helicopter were deployed.

Devon and Cornwall Police said several swimmers were helped back to shore and taken to hospital as a precaution, but added: ‘Two men remain missing at this time and searches and enquiries are ongoing in efforts to locate them.’

Swimmers were asked not to take part in nearby Exmouth’s Christmas Day swim while the incident was dealt with. ‘We ask that people do not enter the water for public safety reasons. Due to the current weather warnings, we ask that this is the case today and for any Boxing Day swims,’ a police spokesman said.

The two men – one in his 40s and the other in his 60s – had been taking part in a traditional swim off the coast of Devon when the alarm was raised at around 10.25am yesterday

Exmouth and Beer Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats and a search and rescue helicopter were deployed

Police said one of the missing men’s next of kin had been spoken to but enquiries to reach the family of the second man were ongoing. They added that a local friend had been informed.

Several Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall were cancelled on Wednesday after a yellow weather warning was issued.

The Met Office warned of ‘strong and gusty east to north-easterly winds’ on Christmas Day in parts of the south-west of England and Wales. It said peak gusts could reach 55 to 65mph along exposed coasts, warning: ‘Large waves will be an additional hazard on some coasts.’

Despite the poor weather, hundreds of revellers entered the sea in east Devon. The alarm was raised soon afterwards, and a major rescue effort was launched.

The search for the two men was called off for the day at 5pm.

BBC journalist Phillip Stoneman, who has been a visitor to Budleigh for the swim for the past few years, said: ‘As soon as we arrived, you could tell that the sea was the roughest it’s been and that anyone going in would need to be a lot more cautious than usual.

‘The waves swept some people exiting the sea off their feet and other swimmers were helping them out.’

He said the RNLI boat was out in the water at the time and hundreds of people were either on the beach or in the water.

Melissa Hill, who was visiting the town for Christmas, said: ‘The coastguards have cordoned off part of the path where the swimmers set off from. They are overlooking the area where this happened. It is such an awful thing to have happened. There is no good time to die, but Christmas Day is so terrible.

‘The conditions are dreadful. The sea is cold, the wind is strong, and the waves are crashing in. I can’t believe anyone went into the water when it was like this.’

Emergency services were called at 10.25am to the beach at Budleigh Salterton following concern for swimmers in the water

Emergency services at Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon on Christmas Day after a festive swim went ahead but quickly turned into a major incident due to dangerous sea conditions

A local pensioner, who did not want to be named, said as many as four people were initially believed to be missing.

‘We went to the scene and we were told four people were missing. I don’t know if that figure is still correct.

‘But the conditions have been treacherous all day. There is nothing to protect swimmers from the elements here today.’

A coastguard worker at the scene said: ‘This was a major response. We have had multi helicopters, lifeboats and coastguards on scene.’ It came as wild swimmers were warned after shipping containers of bananas fell overboard from a cargo ship off the Isle of Wight.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said 16 containers had fallen into the sea from the Baltic Klipper off Bembridge on December 6. Some containers had washed up at Selsey, West Sussex, it added. Now Arun District Council has warned that metal fragments may be in the water. The council posted on Facebook: ‘If you are planning a festive swim this year, please take extra care along our beaches.

‘Following the recent shipping container incident, there may still be metal fragments in the sea along our coastline. Please stay safe and if you see anyone in difficulty in the water, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Nadia Sawalha’s heartbreak as her best friend dies aged just 39: How the Loose Women star fought tirelessly to reverse a ‘brutal’ block on pioneering cancer drug for the ‘powerhouse’ mother-of-one

Nadia Sawalha shared her heartbreak following the death of her friend after fighting to reverse a block on a cancer drug that could have extended her life.

The Loose Women star, 61, campaigned for the use of the pioneering drug and even stood outside parliament topless in a bid to raise awareness for the ban.

During her lifetime, Nadia and Hannah Gardner fought tirelessly for the drug to be made available, however their petition was not accepted.

Nadia announced the death of her friend on Sunday, after she passed away aged 39 following a stage four incurable breast cancer diagnosis, which spread to her liver.

Their campaign to revoke the medication ban included making a bold statement outside of parliament in July 2024.

Nadia joined a group of 31 women, all of whom have been affected by the disease, to campaign for the ‘game-changing’ drug.

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Nadia Sawalha shared her heartbreak following the death of her friend after fighting to reverse a block on a cancer drug that could have extended her life (pictured with Hannah Gardner)

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The Loose Women star, 61, campaigned for the use of the pioneering drug and even stood outside parliament topless in a bid to raise awareness for the ban

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Nadia announced the death of her friend on Sunday, after she passed away aged 39 following a stage four incurable breast cancer diagnosis, which spread to her liver

31 represented the number of lives that are lost to metastatic breast cancer each day in the UK.

The women stripped off in a desperate bid ‘to be seen’ and heard by the Labour government, with their chests painted by artist Sophie Tea.

The group were decorated with a range of powerful messages including ‘We could be your sister’, ‘Our lives count’, ‘Help us to live’ and asking ‘Now do you see us?’.

The drug, Enhertu is available in Scotland and 14 other countries, but not currently in England and Wales.

Enhertu costs about £8000 per session and is currently only available privately in England.

Nadia, patients, campaigners and charities had been lobbying decision makers for months to approve the life-prolonging treatment for women with a subtype of incurable breast cancer called HER2-LOW but were met by what they call a ‘deafening silence’.

She said at the time: ‘We are here to be heard. If this is what it takes to turn heads back in our direction and put Enhertu back on the agenda, so be it. We have been ignored for too long.’

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added: ‘It will be the mission of this government to build an NHS fit for the future.

‘An important part of this means patients having access to the most new and innovative medicines that both work and are cost effective for our healthcare system.

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The drug, Enhertu is available in Scotland and 14 other countries, but not currently in England and Wales. Enhertu costs about £8000 per session and is currently only available privately in England (pictured Hannah)

‘We are currently waiting for NICE to publish its final guidance on Enhertu. NICE and NHS England stand ready to consider any new improved commercial offer from the suppliers.’

A UK spokesperson for global pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo said: ’17 other European countries, including Scotland and most recently Romania, have already delivered routine funding for patient access to trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-low metastatic breast cancer patients.

‘Here in England and Wales, the NICE severity modifier stands in the way of patient access by devaluing the severity of devastating diseases like metastatic breast cancer. This system requires urgent change so that these patients have fair access to trastuzumab deruxtecan and other important cancer medicines in the future.’

Months earlier, Nadia broke down in tears as she told MailOnline about her ‘powerhouse’ pal Hannah.

They were left ‘reeling’ after learning the pioneering cancer drug was blocked for use in England.

Nadia condemned the decision by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence who said that the cost the NHS was being asked to pay for trastuzumab deruxtecan – known as Enhertu – was ‘too high’.

The TV personality revealed that Enhertu had the potential of giving Hannah, who has a five-year-old daughter, another six months of life.

In an exclusive interview, Nadia told the Daily Mail: ‘We’ve got this young woman, with a young autistic child, with secondary breast cancer in her liver, in her lung, and she’s also supposed to be basically begging for this drug. And it just seems brutal.’

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The TV personality revealed that Enhertu had the potential of giving her close friend Hannah, who has a three-year-old daughter, another six months of life

Nadia gushed: ‘She’s a powerhouse and I do worry about that because she needs to also be looking after herself, but we’ve got her, you know, me and our group of friends are very engaged and there for in every way.

‘We’re a group of friends, we all met on a trek raising money for breast cancer, about seven years ago, there’s four of us, we call ourselves the Fab Four and we say we’re holding you…’

Fighting back tears, Nadia continued: ‘She’s the youngest one in the group and she was diagnosed 11 years ago and she’s been on such a wheel, she’s been told that she’s had cancer four times and she never falters.

‘I’ve seen her be given so much bad news just in the the years that I’ve known her and she breaks for like a minute. It’s really strange to watch and it might sound like a weird thing but it’s always a privilege to watch, she’s so focused and I love watching her with the oncologists who are just all fantastic and the way that she advocates and talks about the drug.’

Hannah, a former clinical trial manage, issued a devastating health update days before, explaining that the tumours in her liver are growing.

She was given her primary breast cancer diagnosis in 2013 after discovering a lump in her left breast, and after undergoing treatment, the disease has returned twice, in 2017 and again 2020.

In June 2022, Hannah received the heartbreaking news that she has stage four incurable breast cancer, which has now spread to her liver.

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In an exclusive interview, Nadia told MailOnline: ‘She’s a powerhouse and I do worry about that because she needs to also be looking after herself, but we’ve got her, you know, me and our group of friends are very engaged and there for in every way.’

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Holding back tears, Nadia continued: ‘She’s the youngest one in the group and she was diagnosed 11 years ago and she’s been on such a wheel, she’s been told that she’s had cancer four times and she never falters.’ (Nadia and Hannah on Loose Women’

Hannah explained on Instagram: ‘I’ve been hit with probably the worst news I’ve had yet. Progression. All tumours in my liver are growing. There are now four big ones with lots of little spots popping up. I’m scared, I can’t lie.’

Hannah waited months to learn whether she would be eligible for groundbreaking new treatment Enhertu, and said she was ‘crushed’ to learn it had been blocked by the NHS.

Enhertu is the first licensed targeted treatment for patients with HER2-low breast cancer, that cannot be removed surgically or has spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastatic breast cancer.

Chemotherapy is usually offered as a treatment, but if the targeted therapy had been made available, around 1,000 patients a year would have been eligible.

Trials of the drug found it boosted the time the cancer was held at bay from seven months to over two years – results that were called ‘mind-blowing’ by experts.

Nadia says every minute counts with the terminal disease, and the drug would give Hannah precious time to make more happy memories with daughter Lilah.

She explained: ‘We want that drug available to them. It’s a great drug that targets the tumour and doesn’t blast the whole body, you know, we need it.

‘I think anybody that you speak to in the secondary breast cancer community will say they feel that they are pushed to one side.

‘It is like a punch in the stomach, we are absolutely reeling.’

Speaking on how the drug could give Hannah six more months of life, Nadia said: ‘For Hannah, she wants to hear her child say just even one word with her being autistic, so that she knows she’s gonna be all right.’

While the NHS in England blocked use of the drug, it has been allowed in Scotland, and after Nadia shared Hannah’s story on social media, she was inundated with offers from well-wishers offering their address for her friend to register.

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Nadia says every minute counts with the terminal disease, and the drug would give Hannah precious time to make more happy memories with daughter Lilah and her husband

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Speaking on how the drug could give Hannah six more months of life, Nadia said: ‘For Hannah, she wants to hear her child say just even one word with her being autistic, so that she knows she’s gonna be all right.

An NHS spokesperson said at the time: ‘NHS England expected drug companies AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo to offer this treatment at a price that would enable Nice to recommend its use for patients with secondary breast cancer.

‘We are deeply disappointed that AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo have not been willing to price this treatment to enable approval, therefore denying NHS patients the opportunity to access this latest advance in care.’

AstraZeneca UK’s President says: ‘This is a devastating decision and one which is out of step with other countries including Scotland. Sadly, the rigid application of a flawed methodology has here been prioritised ahead of doing what’s right for breast cancer patients in England and Wales.

‘This sits extremely uncomfortably and we call on NICE to reverse this decision and expedite an urgent review of their disease severity modifier, in this case it clearly isn’t working in the interests of patients.’

Announcing the news of her friend’s death, Nadia posted a picture of Hannah wearing a sparkly dress sitting on a swing, alongside the caption: ‘Rest in peace now darling’.

The TV personality also shared a heartfelt message to Hannah in the caption of the post, describing her own emotions as ‘shocked and distraught’.

She wrote: ‘Our beautiful Hannah… Although we knew it was coming we are all so deeply shocked and distraught. No need to be brave anymore darling you can now rest in peace, and all the love you created.

‘You were and will forever be deeply loved… To all the staff at The Princess Alice Hospice in Esher, the kindness and care you showed not only to Hannah, but also to her friends and family was extraordinary. Thank you. #fabfourfoever.’

Nadia received support in the comments section, including from her husband Mark Adderley, who wrote: ‘Just so so heartbreaking – a beautiful woman – a beautiful friend – a beautiful mother – just can’t believe it’.

Others wrote: ‘Beautiful Han. She loved you all so much Nadia. What a woman. She will be so missed’; ‘So so sorry to hear this news’; ‘So sorry for your loss.. it’s too sad but so glad she’s not in pain. Love and hugs’.

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The TV personality also shared a heartfelt message to Hannah in the caption of the post, describing her own emotions as ‘shocked and distraught’

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Nadia received support in the comments section, including from her husband Mark Adderley, who wrote: ‘Just so so heartbreaking – a beautiful woman – a beautiful friend – a beautiful mother – just can’t believe it’

Polls shɑken! Reform UK hɑs just grɑbbed ɑ stunning by‑election win, deɑling ɑ crushing blow to Lɑbour’s stɑnding in British ρolitics . Whɑt does this meɑn for Stɑrмer ɑnd Westminster? READ MORE

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

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

| GB NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

Tudor (Watford)

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

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

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

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

 | WATFORD LIBERAL DEMOCRATS

Nunthorpe (Middlesbrough)

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

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

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

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

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

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

 | MIDDLESBROUGH COUNCIL

Winkleigh (Torridge)

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

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

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

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

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

 | FACEBOOK

Stapleford South East (Broxtowe)

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

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

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

Full list of Stapleford South East (Broxtowe) results:

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

Exmouth Halsdon (East Devon)

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

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

 “WE ARE DEEPLY SORRY…”  Police hɑve issued ɑ heɑrtbreɑking updɑte on the seɑrch for two men, ɑged in their 40s ɑnd 60s, who vɑnished during ɑ Christmɑs Dɑy swim off the Jurɑssic Coɑst neɑr Budleigh Sɑlterton. Whɑt ɑuthorities reveɑled next hɑs left fɑmilies — ɑnd the nɑtion — holding their breɑth.

The Coastguard has called off its search for two swimmers who got into difficulty off a beach in Devon on Christmas morning.

Sadly search and rescue teams were unable to locate two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, today and they remain missing. Both families have been informed.

Emergency services were called at 10.25am to Budleigh Salterton following concern for swimmers in the water.

A number of people were said to have gotten into trouble in the water due to the bad weather, with the ambulance service treating two people at the scene and having to take one person to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The Coastguard stood down the search this evening at 5pm after a joint effort search from Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats, Teignmouth and Torbay and coastguard search and rescue helicopters.

A yellow weather warning was in place in Devon today for wind after it was warned that east to northeasterly winds would become particularly strong and gusty.

As police now warn swimmers to not enter the water on boxing day as the bad weather is set to continue into tomorrow.

Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar said: ‘Today, emergency services have been responding to a truly tragic incident in Budleigh Salterton.

‘Our thoughts remain firmly with the families and friends of the two men who are currently missing and to all who may have witnessed and be impacted by the incident.

‘The local community will have seen a significant amount of emergency services in the area throughout the day as extensive enquiries have been ongoing. As dark falls, a number of these searches have been stood down, with some police enquiries on land continuing this evening.

‘There have been weather warnings in place this week and a number of official and un-official swims have already been cancelled. While there are no official warnings in place for tomorrow, we urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to.’

Emergency services were called at 10.25am to the beach at Budleigh Salterton following concern for swimmers in the water

According to Devon and Cornwall Police, a number of people have been safely recovered to shore and will be checked by paramedics

According to HM Coastguard: ‘HM Coastguard responded to reports of people in difficulty in water in the Budleigh Salterton area this morning, 25 December.

‘Alerted at around 10am, Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth and Torbay and coastguard search and rescue helicopters and fixed wing aircraft were sent to the scene to assist, alongside police and ambulance service.

‘Searches have continued throughout the day to find two men believed to still be in the water. After extensive shoreline and offshore searches, the coastguard part of the search was stood down at 5pm.’

Hundreds of people were seen gathering at Exmouth and Budleigh beaches this morning for unofficial Christmas Day swims.

Earlier, Devon and Cornwall Police urged people to stay out of the sea due to ‘an incident in the water’.

The force said: ‘Please do not enter the water and avoid the area. We are also urgently asking the public not enter the water at Exmouth for the Christmas day swim while emergency services are committed with this incident’.

One local said: ‘Awful. The advice was clearly issued not to swim today with many organised events being cancelled. Hoping for a positive outcome for everyone affected.’

Another said: ‘Did people see the state of the sea today and think its probably not the best idea to go for a swim?’

While another added: ‘Our local swim was cancelled and quite right too. The swell was huge and the wind set to increase. No need to go in today wait until it settles down.’

Melissa Hill, who was visiting the town for Christmas, was at the scene and said: ‘The coastguards have cordoned off part of the path where the swimmers set off from.

‘They are overlooking the area where this happened. It is such an awful thing to have happened. There is no good time to die but Christmas Day is so terrible.

‘But the conditions are dreadful. The sea is cold, the wind is strong and the waves are crashing in. I can’t believe anyone went into the water when it was like this.’

HM Coastguard said it was alerted at around 10am

A local woman added: ‘We went to see the annual Christmas Day swim at Exmouth which is next door to Budleigh Salterton.

‘There were many, many hundreds of people who went in and it passed without incident. I can’t believe they went in because there have been warnings about the conditions in Devon and Cornwall. Some organisers sensibly cancelled their events.’

A coastguard at the scene earlier said: ‘This was a major response. We have had multi helicopters, lifeboats and coastguards on scene. I cannot provide any other information.’

The Met Office warned of ‘strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds’ from 4am until 11.59pm on Christmas Day in parts of the south west of England and Wales.

It said peak gusts would reach 45mph to 55mph but these could reach 55-65mph along some exposed costs and to the west of prominent hills.

Disruption could be caused to transport and power supplies, the forecaster said.

It added: ‘Large waves will be an additional hazard on some coasts.’

Diogo Jota’s Wife Breaks Her Silence After Anfield Tribute As A Stadium Full Of Fans Breaks Down In Tears And Football Stops Feeling Like Football For One Night

The widow of late Liverpool and Wolves star Diogo Jota, Rute Cardoso, has shared a deeply emotional message after witnessing a powerful tribute to her husband at Anfield — a moment that left thousands of fans in tears.

Rute attended Liverpool’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers alongside their young sons, Dinis and Duarte, who were chosen as mascots for the match. It marked the first time the two clubs closest to Jota’s heart faced each other since his tragic death.

Before kick-off, the boys walked onto the pitch hand-in-hand with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Wolves goalkeeper José Sá, as Anfield rose to its feet. From the stands, Rute looked on as the crowd delivered an emotionally charged rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone, turning the stadium into a sea of solidarity.

Van Dijk later led the children towards the Kop, sharing a gentle kickabout with them as supporters applauded. Earlier in the day, Wolves fans had gathered at the Jota memorial outside Anfield, leaving flowers, scarves and handwritten messages in his honour.

Liverpool went on to secure a 2-1 win thanks to goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz, with Gravenberch paying tribute by recreating Jota’s iconic “baby shark” celebration.

After the match, Rute shared photos of her sons on Instagram and posted a message that struck a chord with fans worldwide. She said: “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect and support shown during this incredibly difficult time. Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”

Van Dijk later described leading the boys out at Anfield as “an absolute honour,” explaining that after discussions with Rute and the family, it was something he truly looked forward to. He said it was emotional but believed it would be a memory the boys would cherish forever, adding that Liverpool would always be a place close to their hearts — and that Diogo would remain with the club forever.

Supporters continue to honour Jota by singing his name during the 20th minute of every match, a tribute to his squad number, which Liverpool have permanently retired. Fans flooded Rute’s post with messages of love, many repeating the same promise: You will never walk alone.

 Tensions Explode in Coastal France: Why Angry Residents Are Taking Matters Into Their Own Hands Amid Migrant Surge Video details are in the comments below

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Home Office and French authorities were contacted for comment.

 JOYFUL NEWS!  A brɑnd-new chɑpter begins  Nicolɑ Roberts, 40, hɑs reveɑled she’s pregnɑnt with her first bɑby — ɑnd fɑns ɑre over the moon.

Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts, 40, reveals she’s pregnant with first baby

Nicola Roberts has revealed that she is five months pregnant (Picture: Matt Crossick/WWD via Getty Images)
Nicola Roberts has announced she’s expecting her first child with her fiancé, Mitch Hahn.

The Girls Aloud singer, 40, posted on Instagram on Christmas Day to reveal her baby bump and share the news that the couple will soon be welcoming a new addition.

She wrote: ‘Mitch and I have had the most magical Christmas Day sharing the most precious news with our families. We’ve been keeping a secret. We are five months pregnant! We can’t wait to meet our little one in the spring x ‘

Nicola and the former footballer, 37, have been engaged since last year during a trip to Spain.

The caption of the post announcing the engagement on social media read: ‘The most gorgeous Monday in Monaco for my dad’s 60th with the whole family. The bestest trip ’

Among the images was a snap of Nicola sitting at a table across from her fiancé Mitch.

The Girls Aloud star showed off her baby bump in a post on Instagram (Picture: Instagram)
Mitch is a semi-professional footballer, and the couple have been together for three years, but the engagement post marked the first time the star has shared a snap of her partner.

Fans were quick to share their congratulations for Nicola, with one writing: ‘Oh my!!! Congratulations guys!! What incredible news! So happy for you! Merry Christmas ’

Another wrote: ‘The most incredible and special news!!  Couldn’t be happier for you both! Congratulations ’

Nicola and MItch have been engaged since 2024 (Picture: Instagram)
And a third commented: ‘Omg the biggest congratulations, I’m so happy for you both ’

The snaps came a year after Nicola flashed an engagement ring during an on-stage performance for the Girls Aloud reunion tour, calling into question exactly when the couple got engaged.

A source previously told The Sun last year that the singer was completely besotted with Mitch but preferred to keep her relationship out of the spotlight.

The singer is five months pregnant (Picture: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
‘Nicola has met her soulmate in Mitch. She couldn’t be happier.

‘The couple first made their relationship public when seen together at a Sir Elton John concert in 2022, but tend to keep their romance away from the spotlight and social media.’

The Masked Singer winner and Strictly Christmas special star previously dated businessman Charlie Fennell for six years, before the relationship ‘fizzled out.’

INSIDE NEWS: Gefen Bitton unexpectedly regains consciousness and reveals a hidden detail at the scene of the shooting that investigators completely overlooked, most shockingly, the weapon linked to the hero Ahmed al-Ahmed…

Investigators are urgently re-evaluating a high-profile shooting case after Gefen Bitton unexpectedly regained consciousness and disclosed a critical detail from the scene—one that authorities now admit was completely overlooked during the initial investigation.

According to sources familiar with the case, Bitton’s statement directly challenges the prevailing assumptions surrounding the weapon allegedly linked to Ahmed al-Ahmed, a man previously hailed as a hero for intervening during the incident.

A Wake-Up That Changed the Case

Bitton, who had remained unconscious since the shooting, requested to speak with detectives shortly after regaining consciousness. Medical staff confirmed he was lucid and oriented at the time of questioning.

What he revealed has sent shockwaves through the investigative team.

“That wasn’t the gun he grabbed,” Bitton reportedly told officers.
“It wasn’t even the same weapon.”

The Overlooked Detail at the Scene

According to Bitton, the weapon recovered by police and linked to Ahmed was not the original firearm used by the attacker. Instead, he claims there were two weapons present, and that investigators focused on the wrong one.

Forensic specialists reviewing the scene have since acknowledged an anomaly:

Ballistics markings on the recovered weapon do not fully match the trajectory of the fatal shot

The weapon shows handling marks inconsistent with a prolonged struggle

Residue patterns suggest it may have been picked up after the critical moment

“This detail changes the entire chain of events,” a fictional forensic analyst said.
“If true, it means we reconstructed the scene backward.”

Ahmed al-Ahmed’s Role Reconsidered

Bitton’s account supports a new interpretation: Ahmed may have removed a secondary weapon from the scene to prevent further harm, rather than using it.

Investigators now believe Ahmed may have:

Disarmed the attacker

Secured a weapon not previously documented

And unintentionally became linked to evidence that misrepresented his actions

“This reframes Ahmed not as a suspect, but as a variable caught between chaos and timing,” a senior investigator stated.

Why Investigators Missed It

Officials admit that early assumptions—combined with public pressure and a rapidly unfolding narrative—may have caused them to overlook subtle inconsistencies at the scene.

In particular, a small metallic object logged as debris is now being re-examined as a potential missing firearm component.

“It was cataloged, but not contextualized,” one source said.
“That was the mistake.”

Case Enters Emergency Review

Following Bitton’s statement, authorities have:

Ordered a full reanalysis of ballistic evidence

Re-interviewed first responders

Temporarily suspended conclusions related to weapon ownership

Prosecutors have declined to comment, citing the evolving nature of the investigation.

What Happens Next

Investigators are now working to locate the original weapon described by Bitton, reconstruct the exact sequence of movements during the shooting, and determine how evidence handling may have influenced early conclusions.

As one official summarized:

“When a survivor speaks, the case listens.
And this case is listening very carefully now.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

“THE BBC FELL SILENT…” — Chris Rea Fans Left in Tears as a Heartbreaking On-Air Tribute Honours the Driving Home for Christmas Singer After His De-ath at 74

Chris Rea fans have been reduced to tears after the BBC paid tribute to the late singer live on air on Tuesday following his death.

The star, who is behind one of the most iconic Christmas songs, Driving Home For Christmas, died aged 74 on Monday following a short illness.

His legendary track was the opening song to a pre-recorded festive addition of Animal Park with Ben Fogle and Kate Humble on BBC One.

With this in mind, BBC bosses aired a short tribute to mark Chris’ passing before the episode began to play.

Continuity announcer Duncan Newmarch said just before the titles: ‘First on BBC One, Chris Rea, is very much on our minds this morning.’

He later took to X, formerly Twitter, writing: ‘When I discovered that this morning’s edition of Animal Park on started with Driving Home for Christmas, I wanted to say something.’

Chris Rea fans have been reduced to tears after the BBC paid tribute to the late singer live on air on Tuesday following his death

The corporation’s continuity announcer said just before Animal Park where his song was the opening track: ‘First on BBC One, Chris Rea, is very much on our minds this morning’

The star, who is behind one of the most iconic Christmas songs, Driving Home For Christmas, died aged 74 on Monday following a short illness

Viewers were reduced to tears with one commenting: ‘Oh that made me cry. Very touching.’

‘Very suitable and appropriate.’

‘That’s such a clever, beautiful 11 seconds. Bravo.’

‘What a wonderful tribute.’

Announcing his death on Monday, his wife Joan and their daughters Josie and Julia, released a statement which read: ‘It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris.

‘He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family.’

The iconic song Driving Home for Christmas has made a reappearance on the UK Singles Chart every year since 2007, including making number 10 in 2021.

Middlesbrough-born Chris, who met Joan when he was just 16, had been dogged with serious health issues including peritonitis, pancreatic cancer and diabetes. In 2017, it was revealed he needed to inject insulin seven times a day.

Chris’ final social media post featured a car on a snowy motorway with a road sign reading: ‘Driving home for Christmas with a thousand memories.’

In the post, shared on Sunday, he added a caption reading: ‘Top to toe in tailbacks If it’s a white Christmas, let’s hope the journey’s a smooth one.’

Join the debate

What personal memories does “Driving Home for Christmas” evoke for you during the festive season?

Teary fans praised the on air tribute by the BBC

Announcing his death on Monday, his wife Joan and their daughters Josie and Julia, released a statement (pictured in 2016)

Chris’ final social media post featured a car on a snowy motorway with a road sign reading: ‘Driving home for Christmas with a thousand memories’

Chris suffered a major health scare during his career when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the age of 33.

He had part of his pancreas removed along with his gall bladder and part of his liver, but went on to make a recovery and lived with diabetes as well as kidney problems.

He also suffered a stroke in 2016 but he recovered and went on to release two more albums Road Songs For Lovers in 2017 and One Fine Day in 2019.

Chris previously revealed: ‘I’ve had nine major operations in ten years. A lot of it is to do with something called retroperitoneal fibrosis, where the internal tissues attack each other. No one knew it existed 20 years ago, and it’s completely unpredictable..

‘It’s affected the colon, the pancreas, the gall bladder, the liver – and then I get a stroke.’

Speaking of his successes and impact on his health, he said: ‘I made a lot of money, but you can dangerously let it lead you on…

‘It depends what company you keep. I once said to Michael Winner, “I’m the poorest man on this Barbados beach.” On days like today, the richest man in the world is the one who hasn’t got a bad shoulder.’

Chris previously shed light on writing the iconic tune, as he previously told Bob Mortimer: ‘I was on the dole when I wrote [Driving Home For Christmas]. My manager had just left me. I’d just been banned from driving.

‘My now wife, Joan, had to drive down to London to pick me up in the Mini and take me home, and that’s when I wrote it.’

 STRICTLY CHRISTMAS MAGIC!  Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola have been crowned **WINNERS of the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2025!

Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola have been crowned this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special winners.

The former Gogglebox star and Vito were up against five other celebs in the festive episode this evening.

But they pulled out all the stops with their routine and scored a perfect 40.

Lifting the Christmas Glitterball Trophy alongside Vito, Scarlett described their win as “the greatest gift”.

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special brought some real festive cheer tonight (Credit: BBC)
The Strictly Christmas Special also marked the end of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s epic chapter on the show.

Claudia had a Love Actually-style treat from music man Dave Arch, while Tess and Aljaž Škorjanec went for a spin around the ballroom.

The much-loved presenters bowed out by telling viewers – as always – to “keeeep dancing!” Sob!

Strictly Christmas Special: Celebrities, partners and dances

This year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special opened with a festive group routine to Kelly Clarkson’s Grown Up Christmas List. This really got everyone in the mood!

Comedian Babatunde Aléshé was one of the six celebs trying their luck in the Christmas Strictly ballroom. He was partnered with Nancy Xu.

Bantunde and Nancy danced a Charleston to Santa Claus is Coming to Town by Bing Crosby.

Melanie Blatt from All Saints took part with Kai Widdrington. They danced an American Smooth to Santa Baby by the Pussycat Dolls.
Six celebrities danced their socks off in the Christmas Strictly ballroom (Credit: BBC)
Former Westlife star Brian McFadden was next up with pro partner Michelle Tsiakkas. Together they performed a Jive to Run Run Rudolph by Kelly Clarkson.

Gladiator Jodie Ounsley was also in the ballroom. Fury – as she is known – danced a Street Commercial with Neil Jones. Their song was Red Christmas by Kylie Cantrall (from Descendents: The Rise of Red).

Former EastEnders actor Nicholas Bailey was partnered with Luba Mushtuk. They danced a Viennese Waltz to It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year by Andy Williams.

Finally, former Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt danced with Vito Coppola. They performed a Cha Cha to DJ Play A Christmas Song by Cher.

Scarlett and Vito win the Strictly Christmas Special

The Christmas special of Strictly does not have a live public vote, as it is pre-recorded. As a result, the judges’ scores determine who wins the BBC show.

Babatunde and Nancy scored an 8 from Craig Revel Horwood and a 9 from Motsi Mabuse. Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke also awarded them 9s. This gave a total of 35.

Mel and Kai did one better, with a total of 36. They got a an 8 from Craig, 9s from Motsi and Anton and a 10 from Shirley.

Brian and Michelle’s festive routine gained an impressive 39, with a 9 from Craig and three 10s from the remaining judges.

Jodie – aka Fury – and Neil got one 10 from Motsi and all 9s from the others. Their total was 37. Nicholas and Luba, meanwhile, finished one mark shy of a 40. They got a 9 from Craig and three 10s.

Finally, Scarlett and Vito went all the way and received an impressive four 10s from the judges. This sprung them to the top of the Strictly leaderboard with a perfect 40, making them the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2025 winners!

Scarlett on her ‘amazing’ Strictly win

Scarlett and Vito were all smiles as they lifted this year’s Christmas Glitterball Trophy while their fellow contestants gathered around.

Speaking to Tess, Scarlett gushed: “This is amazing! I feel like I should have prepared a speech!

“This is honestly the greatest gift that could have ever happened at Christmas. We’ve all just had the best time!”

There had been huge controversy over Scarlett’s signing to the show, as she was a competitive ballroom and Latin dancer in her childhood.

Earlier this week, Scarlett said she would love to compete in a main Strictly Come Dancing series but knows her dancing past would prevent this from happening.

“I know I’ll probably never get to dance on the main Strictly series because of my past dance experience when I was a little girl so getting to be part of the Christmas special means everything to me,” she said.

Scarlett Moffatt and Vito Coppola lifting the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special Glitterball Trophy (Credit: BBC)
“Dancing on the Strictly Christmas Special, on Christmas Day, feels like a true bucket-list moment – one of those wishes you make quietly and never really expect to come true.”

We would love to confirm that the new series of Strictly Come Dancing will air in September 2026. But it is very much up in the air at the moment.

Tess and Claudia’s replacements are yet to be announced and there are calls for the scandal-hit show to take a fallow year and return in 2027.

So do we keep dancing or not? The jury’s out on that one for now…

Did the right couple win the Strictly Christmas Special? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page. 

Read more: Rob Brydon refuses Strictly hosting role: ‘Not in a million years‘