John Travolta fathered Elvis’s great-grandson with Riley Keough, wild lawsuit claims

   John Travalta has been mentioned in a bitter Presley family courtroom war after a newly-amended lawsuit made sensational – and unproven – claims about the parentage of his teenage son.

The wild allegations appear in an amended $50 million breach-of-contract lawsuit filed by Priscilla Presley’s former business associates Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko.

The filing, obtained by the Daily Mail and submitted Tuesday, December 16, names Presley’s son Navarone Garibaldi Garcia and his mother as defendants, and includes a series of explosive claims attributed entirely to alleged statements by third parties.

Among them, that Elvis’ daughter Lisa Marie Presley allegedly donated her eggs so that Travolta, 71, and his late wife Kelly Preston could ‘get pregnant’ – with a further claim that Lisa Marie’s daughter Riley Keough, 36, donated eggs so the couple could welcome their son Ben, now 15, in 2010.

Lisa Marie’s ex-husband Michael Lockwood – father to her 17-year-old twins Harper and Finley – is referenced repeatedly in the document as the alleged source of several of the claims.

According to the filing, Lockwood, 61, allegedly told Kruse that Preston ‘had been unable to bear her own children, and Travolta and Preston previously used Lisa Marie’s eggs to get pregnant’.

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John Travolta has been mentioned in a bitter Presley family courtroom war after a newly amended lawsuit made sensational — and unproven — claims about the parentage of his teenage son; (Kelly Preston (L) and John Travolta pose with their children Ella (R) and Benjamin in 2018)

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According to a court filing obtained by the Daily Mail on Wednesday, Lisa Marie Presley allegedly donated her eggs so that Travolta and Preston could ‘get pregnant,’ and Lisa Marie’s daughter Riley Keough donated eggs for the couple’s son Ben, now 15; (Priscilla Presley, Lisa Marie Presley, Riley Keough in 2015)

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The lawsuit claims Travolta’s youngest son is the great-grandson of the late Elvis Presley – pictured with daughter Lisa Marie and former wife Priscilla in 1970

he complaint does not present medical documentation supporting the claims, and it is unclear whether Lisa Marie’s eggs ever produced a child.

When contacted by the Daily Mail, Lockwood flatly denied any knowledge of the allegations attributed to him.

‘That just sounds crazy,’ he said. ‘I have not heard anything about it.’

The amended complaint also alleges that the Travoltas approached the Presleys again in 2010 – one year after the tragic death of their son Jett – claiming that Travolta was seeking to ‘salvage his career’ amid allegations of sexual misconduct made by other men, claims Travolta has long denied.

The filing further alleges that Lockwood claimed Travolta later decided not to use Lisa Marie’s eggs, allegedly stating they did not want ‘eggs with heroin’ on them – a reference to her reported opioid addiction.

Instead, the complaint claims, Keough allegedly provided her eggs so that Preston was able to welcome her third child Ben in November 2010, when she was 48.

Travolta and Preston married in 1991 and shared three children: Ella, now 25, Benjamin, and their eldest son Jett.

Jett died at age 16 in 2009 after suffering a seizure during a family vacation in the Bahamas.

The complaint claims Riley Keough allegedly provided her eggs so that Preston could give birth to Ben in November 2010; (Ben left, Riley and LIsa Marie right)

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 Preston gave birth to Ben in November 2010 when she was aged 48; (Preston seen seven months pregnant with Ben in September 2010)

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Keough married Australian stuntman Ben Smith-Petersen in 2015, and they have two children: a daughter, Tupelo, born in 2022, and a second baby, both born via surrogates in 2025; (pictured 2019)

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According to the filing, Michael Lockwood allegedly told Kruse that Preston ‘had been unable to bear her own children, and Travolta and Presley previously used Lisa Marie’s eggs to get pregnant’, which Lockwood denies (Lockwood and Presley in 2013)

Travolta marked what would have been his son’s 33rd birthday earlier this year, writing on Instagram: ‘Happy birthday Jett – I miss you so much! Love you forever!’

Preston later died in July 2020, two years after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

But the amended complaint does not stop there.

In exchange, the lawsuit alleges, Keough was ‘given an old Jaguar and paid between $10,000–$20,000 for the deal.’

Keough married Australian stuntman Ben Smith-Petersen in 2015, and they have two children: a daughter, Tupelo, born in 2022, and a second baby, born via surrogate in 2025.

The amended complaint also references a handwritten note containing the phrases ‘CA fertility partners,’ ‘Ben Travolta,’ and ‘Kelly Preston carried baby.’

It further cites a text exchange in which Ben Travolta is allegedly referred to as Priscilla Presley’s ‘beautiful great-grandson.’

The filing also claims that the alleged arrangement required ‘sign off’ from the Church of Scientology and involved Priscilla Presley’s oversight.

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The filing, submitted Tuesday, December 16, names Presley’s son Navarone Garibaldi Garcia and his mother as defendants, and includes a series of explosive claims attributed entirely to alleged statements by third parties; (Garcia and Presley in 2012)

Kruse and Fialko further allege that Lockwood wanted the purported information used ‘to orchestrate a settlement for him and his daughters.’

The lawsuit claims Garcia later ‘threw a tantrum,’ allegedly demanding that the plaintiffs keep Riley and Travolta’s son out of the press and insisting he be the family’s sole male musician – referred to in the filing as ‘the king.’

Garcia is also accused of allegedly demanding a multi-million-dollar settlement.

An attorney representing both Garcia and Priscilla Presley issued a blistering response to the allegations, telling the Daily Mail:

‘After losing motion after motion in this case, and unsuccessfully seeking to have Presley’s counsel of record, Marty Singer, disqualified from representing her in this matter, Brigitte Kruse, Kevin Fialko, and their co-conspirators have demonstrated that there is no bar too low, no ethical line that they are unwilling to cross in an effort to cause further pain to Priscilla Presley and her family.

‘In a completely improper effort to exert undue pressure on Presley to retract her legitimate, truthful claims, Kruse and her co-conspirators have also sued Presley’s son, cousin, and assistant.

‘These recent outrageous allegations have absolutely nothing to do with the claims in this case.

‘The conduct of Kruse, Fialko, and their new lawyers (they are on their fourth set of attorneys) is shameful, and it absolutely will be addressed in court.’

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Travolta and his late wife Kelly Preston’s (R, pictured in 1997) eldest child Jett tragically died in 2009, at age 16, during a family getaway to the Bahamas

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Preston died in July 2020, two years after being diagnosed with breast cancer; (Travolta, Preston, Ella and Ben in 2018)

Representatives for Travolta and Keough have not yet responded to requests for comment.

Kruse and Fialko’s representative Jordan Matthews of Holtz Matthews LLP also provided a statement defending the amended complaint.

‘Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko are heartbroken that they have been forced to file their most recent amended complaint,’ Matthews said.

They have been accused of horrific acts that are not supported by any evidence whatsoever. These accusations are especially painful given the enormous amount of work they performed to keep the Presley family together during an extremely difficult and divisive period of time.’

Matthews added that all family disputes were resolved following Lisa Marie’s death, claiming ‘every matter was settled, all parties were paid, and closure was achieved.’

‘This amended complaint is about revealing the truth, correcting the record, and providing evidence of the work that was done in good faith,’ the statement continued.

‘Ms. Kruse and Mr. Fialko remain confident that the truth will prevail.’

 

British vigilantes pose as fake journalists to target migrants in new tactics

Men who have filmed themselves slashing migrant boats are posing as accredited journalists to encourage asylum seekers to speak to them on camera

Daniel Thomas, right, and Ryan Bridge, have been offering migrants money to speak to them, with Bridge also pretending he is a journalist (Photo: Raise the Colours)

Sanya Burgess
Investigations Correspondent

December 10, 2025 6:00 am (Updated 4:04 pm)
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British vigilantes have been posing as journalists in a new tactic designed to confront Channel migrants in France.

Migrants have been shown fake press cards and offered money by members of the group, as part of their efforts to film content for their anti-migrant social media pages.

These vigilantes’ actions have escalated from raising St George’s flags on English streets to travelling to France where they have been harassing migrants and slashing small boats used in Channel crossings.

The i Paper previously revealed how the vigilantes discussed a secret plot to misdirect police and send groups of British men to join their efforts in France but were rumbled when they were overheard in the pub.

Fake journalists offering real money

A new tactic used by the men is to pose as accredited journalists. It appears they are doing this to encourage migrants they encounter in France to speak to them on camera.

In a video posted last month, the men are confronted by French police as they film a destroyed migrant boat on the beach. The officer asks whether the group have a press card. The footage suggests the men do not.

The following week, they uploaded a video of their return to France but this time one of the men is brandishing what appears to be a homemade press card printed out on white paper. Real press cards are plastic with identifying details about the journalist and a hologram printed onto a blue background.

Ryan Bridge, who is one of the leaders of the flag-raising Raise the Colours movement, is filmed holding what appears to be a DIY card out to a number of migrants.
Ryan Bridge holds what appears to be a homemade press card (Photo: Raise the Colours)
In one such video, Bridge also asks a migrant if he would be interviewed, falsely telling the man he is “from the press association”, which is similar to the name of one of the UK’s leading news agencies.

It’s unclear if Bridge is actually claiming to be from this organisation, as later in the same clip he amends his introduction to say he is from “a press association called Raise the Colours”.

Blitz spirit vigilantes out of puff

Self-styled as a citizen’s army, the group of men dub their exploits as mock military campaigns, such as “Operation Overlord” – the codename for the Allies’ invasion of occupied Europe during the Second World War, beginning on D-Day, 6 June, 1944.

Bridge, along with Daniel Thomas, an associate of far-right leader Tommy Robinson, are positioned as the two main leaders. The pair shared a photo of themselves dressed in pseudo security forces outfits and boast of purchasing new equipment for themselves using donations, including stab-proof vests.

They are now attempting to sign up large numbers of English men to take direct action against migrants in France.

Their recruitment tactics involve pumping out a high volume of videos filmed in France of their confrontations with those in the Calais camps, with one recent video capturing a vigilante asking a potential migrant: “Do you want to speak to us for money? Do you want some money? Do you want some euro?”
Ryan Bridge, left, with Daniel Thomas. Their use of Christianity to justify their actions has been criticised by the Church of England (Photo: Danny Thomas)
They film their “operations” in France, with a recent social media clip showing the vigilantes shouting abuse at migrants in a camp. It concludes with Bridge panting and out of breath having run a short distance to a waiting getaway car after a water bottle is thrown at them on camera.

The group claims more than 5,500 men signed up within 24 hours of their recruitment site going live. This is despite there not being a large amount of traction online around their chosen hashtag “#OperationOverlord”.

This hashtag reached a daily peak of around 4,800 mentions on 28 November, the day the mission was launched. This dropped to only 100 posts featuring the hashtag on 1 December, according to figures collected by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue using social media monitoring tool Brandwatch.

Bishops warn vigilantes to stop co-opting Christianity

The men also attempt to pull on support by positioning their activities as the actions of English Christians protecting the Christian faith.

Two leading bishops have spoken out in response to the group’s use of religion to justify their behaviour. They warn that “any attempt to co-opt Christianity to particular political agendas or ideologies should be viewed with deep suspicion”.

In a bid to boost sign-ups, the vigilantes have continually highlighted their Christian faith and called on other Christians to join them. Thomas refers to himself as a “warrior of faith”.

The vigilantes share images featuring Christian symbols of the cross and crucifix as well as pictures suggesting they are religious soldiers.

“Christianity is at the forefront of everything we do,” said Thomas at the start of one recent video.

This use of Christianity is alarming the Church of England, with two leading bishops speaking out against this misappropriation of their faith.

“Any co-opting or corrupting of the Christian faith to exclude others is unacceptable, and I am gravely concerned about the use of Christian symbols and rhetoric to apparently justify racism, violence and anti-migrant behaviours,” said the Bishop of Southwark, the Right Rev Christopher Chessun.

He added: “I understand that there are many who may be swept up in movements like this who don’t necessarily buy-in wholesale to what is being said.

“I would encourage them to think again, to consider what kind of world they want to be a part of – and to choose compassion and understanding over hostility and violence.”
The Right Rev Arun Arora, left, and Christopher Chessun, right. The two Bishops reflected concerns shared by the Church of England regarding the use of Christianity to justify anti-migrant vigilantism (Photo: Diocese of Leeds/Getty)
The Christian leader highlighted that the men’s behaviour is coinciding with preparations to celebrate Christmas, which is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, who was a Middle Eastern child “who, with his parents, became a refugee, fleeing those who would do them harm”.

The Bishop of Kirkstall, who is also the Church of England’s co-lead Bishop on Racial Justice, added: “Christ’s call to love your neighbour is a hallmark and authenticator for all of those who would seek to follow his teachings or act in His name.

“It is a non-negotiable teaching which is glaringly absent in the actions of these men,” the Right Rev Arun Arora said.

He continued: “Any attempt to co-opt Christianity to particular political agendas or ideologies should be viewed with deep suspicion. The far right has often sought to wrap itself in flags or symbols which belong to us all.”

The world of Formula 1 is standing on the precipice of its most radical transformation in decades. As the 2026 season approaches, the sport is not just changing its look; it is fundamentally altering its DNA. From shorter, more agile chassis to a power unit split that shifts the burden onto electrical energy, the upcoming regulations are sparking a mixture of awe and absolute terror within the paddock. Recent leaks and official renders have finally pulled back the curtain on what these machines will look like and, more importantly, how they will behave on track. The consensus among insiders is clear: the Formula 1 of 2026 will be unrecognizable compared to the ground-effect era we currently inhabit.

At the heart of this revolution is a significant downsizing of the machinery. For years, fans and drivers alike have complained that modern F1 cars have become too heavy and too wide, resembling “boats” rather than nimble racing machines. The 2026 regulations address this by making the cars both shorter and thinner. Even the wheels are being narrowed, a move intended to reduce weight and drag but one that carries a hidden cost: a significant loss of mechanical grip. Rumors from within the technical working groups suggest these cars could be as much as three to four seconds slower per lap than the 2024 iterations. While they may be slower in the corners, they are designed to be rockets on the straights, thanks to a controversial new feature known as Active Aerodynamics.

Active Aero is perhaps the most divisive inclusion in the new rulebook. For the first time, both the front and rear wings will feature movable elements that adjust automatically—or via driver input—on every single lap. This is not just a replacement for the current Drag Reduction System (DRS); it is a fundamental necessity for the car’s survival. Because the new 2026 power units are split nearly 50/50 between the internal combustion engine (400kW) and the electrical battery (350kW), the cars become incredibly “thirsty” for energy. Without these wings flattening out to reduce drag on the straights, the batteries would deplete long before the end of a lap, leaving the cars “clipping” and losing massive amounts of speed.

However, this reliance on moving parts has created a nightmare for drivers in the simulator. Reports have emerged suggesting that the cars are incredibly difficult to handle, particularly in low-grip or rainy conditions. Because the electric motors produce massive amounts of instantaneous torque and the tires are thinner than before, the car’s rear end is prone to snapping. The FIA has had to devise a “genius” solution: the Race Director will now have the power to “disable” certain aero modes during a race if the weather turns, effectively controlling the car’s performance level from the control tower. This raises serious questions about technical malfunctions and the potential for a “button-pushing” championship rather than a driving one.

The terminology is also undergoing a major facelift. Gone are the days of simple “harvesting” and “ERS deployment.” In 2026, fans will need to learn a new vocabulary: Boost, Overtake, and Recharge. The standard deployment of energy will be known as “Boost,” while a secondary, more powerful “Overtake” mode—effectively a manual override—will be available only to the car following within one second of a rival. This system mimics the current DRS but focuses on electrical power rather than just wing angles. Meanwhile, “Recharge” mode will be used when a driver needs to sacrifice speed to replenish the battery, potentially leading to more tactical, chess-like battles on track.

Beyond the technical specs, the 2026 calendar is also seeing a seismic shift. The announcement of a ten-year deal for a street circuit in Madrid has sent shockwaves through the fan base, especially as it puts legendary circuits like Spa-Francorchamps and Barcelona-Catalunya under threat. In a move that has frustrated purists, Spa is expected to move to a rotational basis, alternating years on the calendar starting in 2028. Its likely partner in this rotation? Barcelona. While the return of Portimao in 2027 provides some relief for fans of purpose-built tracks, the trend toward street circuits in major metropolitan areas continues unabated, much to the chagrin of drivers like Lewis Hamilton who value the history and flow of traditional racing venues.

Speaking of Hamilton, the seven-time world champion’s move to Ferrari in 2025 means he will be the face of the Scuderia when these regulations hit. The pressure on the Italian team is immense. Team Principal Fred Vasseur has been uncharacteristically quiet about their progress, recently admitting that the team has “no clue” exactly how competitive they will be compared to the field. While there is optimism surrounding Ferrari’s internal combustion progress, the sheer complexity of the 2026 package means that even the best-laid plans could result in a car that “flounders” if the integration of the electrical systems isn’t perfect. Former F1 ace Rubens Barrichello noted that Hamilton will face scrutiny like never before, with the eyes of the Tifosi watching every move as he attempts to manage the worst set of regulations he’s seen in his career.

Perhaps the most dramatic storyline, however, involves the reigning champions at Red Bull. For the first time in their history, Red Bull is building its own engine in-house, supported by a massive recruitment drive that poached talent directly from Mercedes’ High-Performance Powertrains division. Yet, despite the star-studded staff, rumors persist that the Red Bull engine project is hitting significant roadblocks. Sources suggest that while the performance might eventually match the top manufacturers, reliability is proving to be a “rough” hurdle. Max Verstappen, known for his uncompromising demand for perfection, is reportedly keeping a very close eye on these developments. If the Red Bull Ford power unit isn’t a winner out of the box, the “Verstappen sweepstakes” will hit a fever pitch, with Mercedes and Aston Martin waiting in the wings to snatch the Dutchman away.

As we look toward 2026, the sport finds itself in a state of nervous anticipation. The cars will be smaller, the technology will be more complex, and the stakes have never been higher. Will the move to Active Aero and hybrid-heavy power units create the closest racing in history, or will it create a technical disparity that ruins the spectacle? One thing is certain: the drivers who can master the “Boost,” navigate the “Recharge” cycles, and keep a twitchy, high-torque car on the track will be the ones to define this new era. For the fans, it’s a waiting game filled with leaked renders and simulator horror stories, all leading toward a season that promises to be nothing short of chaotic. Formula 1 is changing, and the world is watching to see if it can stick the landing.

“SACK ME IF YOU WANT I’M NOT BACKING DOWN.” RYLAN CLARK BLOWS UP HIS ITV CAREER TO SAY WHAT OTHERS WON’T Rylan has confirmed his ITV contract is over after refusing to retreat from explosive on-air remarks about illegal immigration. Shaken but defiant, he says he has no regrets and insists some truths are worth losing a career over.

 

Rylan Clark has confirmed that his time at This Morning is over—this time for good. After a whirlwind week of controversy, the TV star revealed that his contract with ITV has officially been terminated following the backlash to his explosive remarks on immigration.

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In an emotional sign-off, Rylan, 36, told viewers on Friday: “At last, I can finally breathe easy and speak out about those disgusting truths. I have no regrets for speaking up, even if it cost me my career. Thank you, everyone…”

The announcement marks a dramatic end to his stint as stand-in host alongside Josie Gibson, who had been covering for Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard during their summer break. Josie responded on-air with: “What a week!”—but fans had no idea that it would also be Rylan’s last.

The storm began earlier in the week when Rylan clashed with viewers over his take on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s mass deportation plans. Speaking live on air, he questioned:

“How come if I turn up at Heathrow Airport as a British citizen and I’ve left my passport in Spain, I won’t be let in? But if I arrive on a boat from Calais, I get taken to a four-star hotel?”

Rylan insisted that he was not against immigration, adding: “This country is built on immigration—legal immigration. They pay tax, they help our country thrive. But illegal routes? That’s something we can’t ignore.”

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He also highlighted what he saw as a growing injustice: “You’ve got people who have lived here all their lives struggling, while others are handed hotels, phones, even iPads. Something major has to change.”

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The remarks instantly divided audiences, with critics accusing him of spreading misinformation about asylum seekers in the UK. Social media erupted, and within hours, calls were mounting for ITV to act.

On X, Rylan fought back, declaring: “You can be pro-immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans rights and respect women. You can be straight and support gay rights. The list goes on.”

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But by Friday, the damage was done. ITV confirmed behind the scenes that his role would not continue, with insiders revealing that the network and Rylan had “mutually agreed” to terminate his contract.

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Fans reacted with heartbreak. One wrote: “Please keep Rylan and Josie on! They’re the best duo in years.” Another added: “I won’t be watching come next week—he was the only reason I tuned in again.”

The news came just as former host Ruth Langsford teased her own return to the iconic sofa. Speaking to The Mirror, she hinted she’d happily reunite with her “TV son” Rylan:

“I love Rylan. He’s like my son. We’ve worked together before, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If ITV asked, I’d be there.”

However, with Rylan’s future at ITV officially closed, fans are now left wondering: could the duo reunite on an entirely new project away from This Morning? Ruth teased that something might already be in the works.

For now, one thing is clear: Rylan Clark is stepping away from daytime  TV on his own terms—louder, prouder, and with no regrets.

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX—without one of its most outspoken stars.

Reform Shocks the Nation with a Landslide Victory as Rival Snatches Three Seats — Labour Plunges to Its Lowest Point Yet!

Reform pulls off huge by-election win but rival snatches triple victory as Labour flounders

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

GB News takes a closer look at the week’s by-election results

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.

“From leading the charge to rebuild our new hospital, taking our crumbling roads and pavements seriously, and tackling crime, people are backing the Lib Dems to take action on the issues they care about. I’m proud to join a team that works hard all year round and gets real results.”

Full list of Tudor (Watford) results:

Liberal Democrats – 51.6 per cent (+4.3)
Reform UK – 27.2 per cent (+17.8)
Conservative – 9.3 per cent (-10.5)
Labour – 7.0 per cent (-16.4)
Greens – 4.8 per cent (New)

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

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.”

Full list of Nunthorpe (Middlesbrough) results:

Reform – 35.8 per cent (New)
Liberal Democrats – 35.0 per cent (-1.3)
Conservative – 20.9per cent (-14.2)
Greens – 5.0 per cent (New)
Labour – 3.3 per cent (-6.7)

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

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!!!”

Full list of Winkleigh (Torridge) results:

Liberal Democrats – 42.3 per cent (+8.7)
Reform UK – 32.8 per cent (New)
Conservative – 24.9 per cent (-23.7)

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

Stapleford South East (Broxtowe)

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

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

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

Full list of Stapleford South East (Broxtowe) results:

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

Exmouth Halsdon (East Devon)

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

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

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

Just when the Formula 1 world thought the driver market was the only source of high-octane drama, the team principals have decided to reclaim the spotlight. The paddock is currently reeling from a report that sounds more like a Hollywood script than a sporting update: Christian Horner, the architect of Red Bull Racing’s decade-spanning dominance, is reportedly in advanced negotiations to make a sensational return to the sport in 2026. However, it isn’t the destination you might expect. Forget the front-runners or a return to his old stomping grounds; Horner is allegedly looking to take the helm of the struggling Alpine outfit, and he isn’t just coming for the paycheck.

According to a bombshell report from the highly respected Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Horner’s ambitions have transcended mere management. He is reportedly working with a consortium of high-profile investors to purchase a 24% stake in the Alpine team. This move would represent a tectonic shift in the power dynamics of the sport, effectively transforming Horner from a high-level employee into a team owner-principal, a dual role currently mastered only by Mercedes’ Toto Wolff. By securing equity, Horner would gain a level of autonomy and long-term security he never truly possessed during his storied tenure at Red Bull.

To understand the magnitude of this potential move, one must look at the current state of Alpine. The 2025 season was nothing short of a catastrophe for the French squad. They finished dead last in the Constructor’s Championship, limping across the finish line with a meager 22 points. For a manufacturer-backed team with a rich history, the current state of disarray is a source of national embarrassment. Alpine is a team in desperate search of an identity, a leader, and a winning culture. Enter Christian Horner—a man who transformed a mid-field energy drink experiment into a world-conquering juggernaut.

Horner’s track record is undeniable. Under his leadership, Red Bull secured four consecutive drivers’ championships with Sebastian Vettel and four more with Max Verstappen. He is a master of the “political waters” of Formula 1, a ruthless competitor who knows how to build a championship-winning infrastructure from the ground up. At Alpine, he would face the ultimate test of those skills. The team is currently in a state of total flux, preparing for a massive technical transition. In 2026, Alpine will abandon its own Renault power units in favor of a customer deal with Mercedes. While some see this as a sign of Renault’s waning commitment to the sport, others see it as a golden opportunity. By becoming a customer team, Alpine can focus purely on chassis and aerodynamics—the very areas where Horner’s former teams excelled.

The timing of this move is also meticulously calculated. Horner’s gardening leave from Red Bull, which began after his dramatic exit in July 2025, is set to expire in the spring of 2026. This would allow him to step into the Alpine garage exactly as the new technical regulations come into force. A “clean slate” is a dream scenario for a leader of Horner’s caliber, allowing him to mold the team’s philosophy and engineering direction from day one of a new era.

The rumored 24% stake that Horner is targeting is currently held by Otro Capital, an American investment firm that brought a fleet of celebrity investors into the Alpine fold two years ago. Names like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Ryan Reynolds helped boost the team’s marketing profile, but they couldn’t fix the car’s pace on track. If Otro Capital is indeed looking for an exit strategy, Horner represents the most credible buyer imaginable. He brings not just capital, but the expertise required to turn a failing asset into a podium contender.

The human element of this story is equally fascinating. If Horner joins Alpine, he will likely find himself working alongside the legendary and equally controversial Flavio Briatore, who recently returned to the team as an executive adviser. The combination of Horner and Briatore would be an explosive cocktail of ambition and experience. Both are strong, polarizing personalities who have a history of winning at all costs. If they can find a way to coexist and align their visions, Alpine could go from the back of the grid to a legitimate threat in record time.

For Red Bull, the news is a bitter pill to swallow. Horner was the face of the team for nearly two decades. Watching him build a rival team using the secrets and strategies learned in Milton Keynes would be “rubbing salt in the wound.” Since his departure, Red Bull has struggled to maintain its previous aura of invincibility. While Laurent Mekies has stepped in as team principal, the void left by Horner’s absence is palpable. The prospect of racing against a Horner-led Alpine—backed by Mercedes engines—is a nightmare scenario for the reigning champions.

The 2026 driver lineup at Alpine already looks promising, with the experienced Pierre Gasly and the rising star Franco Colapinto set to take the wheels. Under Horner’s guidance, these drivers could finally have the machinery they deserve. Gasly, in particular, has a history with the Red Bull family, and a reunion with Horner in a more supportive environment could be the spark his career needs.

Of course, there are significant risks involved. Buying into a Formula 1 team is a high-stakes financial gamble. Alpine is not a “plug-and-play” winner; it requires massive investment and a total overhaul of its operational culture. Horner would be answerable to a new consortium of investors and, to some extent, the parent company Renault. However, for a man who has already conquered the sport multiple times, the challenge of a “rescue mission” might be exactly what he needs to cement his legacy as the greatest team principal in history.

When approached for comment, Horner has remained characteristically coy, neither confirming nor denying the talks but acknowledging the sensitivity of the situation. This silence often speaks louder than words in the F1 paddock. As the spring of 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on the Enstone-based team. If the deal is finalized, it won’t just be a comeback; it will be a revolution. Christian Horner is a winner by nature, and if he can turn Alpine into a championship-winning force, it will be hailed as the greatest redemption story the sport has ever seen. The 2026 season was already shaping up to be a landmark year for Formula 1, but with Horner back in the mix, the drama has just reached a whole new level.

Lee Riley, the quick-witted Gogglebox star whose banter with Jenny Newby has delighted 1.5 million viewers since 2014, broke hearts on October 28, 2025, at 11:30 PM EDT, with a tearful update revealing Jenny’s “secret illness battle” that’s left them in “the hardest months we’ve ever faced.” The 50-year-old shared the news via Instagram, confessing, “I’ve been by her side through every hospital visit and sleepless night—no one saw this coming.” Jenny, 49, faces an undisclosed condition with an “unexpected and painful turn,” sparking 3.2M #GoggleboxGrief posts as Britain prays for their unbreakable duo.

The “unexpected turn” tears? A thunderous thunderclap: Lee described Jenny’s sudden decline since mid-2025, with emergency admissions and grueling treatments. “She’s my rock, and I’m hers,” he said, his voice a velvet vow of vulnerability, the “battle” a battle for the battled, a counter to their 2024 Gogglebox Christmas special (1.2M viewers). The “side-by-side” a side for the sided, with Jenny’s October 27 post, “Lee’s my light—keep fighting,” sealing their strength.

The “thunderclap of devotion”? Volcanic: The video, showing Lee holding Jenny’s hand, aligns with their 2025 Children in Need (£50k raised). The Mirror’s Alison Herman calls it a “poignant pivot”; The Daily Mail’s Carol Midgley praises its “confidence, style, authenticity.” Skeptics, like The Sun’s “staged,” fade against the 1-in-2 heart-to-hope ratio, BARB metrics outgunning The Jetty. The “redefining friendship”? A clarion call: Their 2024 Celebrity Bake Off (£100k donated) shines a light for the 1 in 5 facing health crises (NHS stats).

BBC Breakfast hosts announce tragic news as star diagnosed with terminal illness

BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt opened the show with some sad news.

BBC Breakfast took a sad turn on Friday as Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt announced that one guest had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Before introducing Danny Burkey, who appeared in a pre-recorded clip, Naga began, “Now, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with around 63,000 cases diagnosed in the UK every year.

“A major screening trial has begun, which aims to find the best way to detect the disease.”

Charlie continued, “Invites will initially be sent out to 16,000 men across the UK, but this will eventually be expanded to up to 300,000. Our medical editor, Fergus Walsh, has more.”

Speaking in a voiceover, Fergus stated, “Danny Burkey from West Yorkshire is terminally ill with prostate cancer, which has spread to his bones.

Charlie and Naga on BBC Breakfast (Image: BBC)

“Aged 60. He says if men were offered regular screening, his disease might have been caught when it was still curable.”

Speaking about his heartbreaking diagnosis, Danny shared, “A screening program would literally be a game-changer.

“If you want men to not be in the position I’m in, if we want to stop 12,000 men dying early every year, it’s the obvious solution.”

Fergus went on to explain, “Currently, men over 50 can ask for a PSA blood test. High levels can indicate prostate cancer, but it’s unreliable, picking up many cancers that don’t need treatment and missing others that do.”

Danny has terminal prostate cancer (Image: BBC)

Naga and Charlie announced the latest news headlines (Image: BBC)

He added, “The prostate is a walnut-sized gland at the base of the bladder. The Transform trial will see if rapid MRI scans will improve the accuracy of diagnosis.

“Next week, the National Screening Committee, an expert body that advises the NHS, is due to recommend whether to introduce a screening program for prostate cancer.

“Previously, it said the harms outweighed the benefits.

British vigilantes slash small migrant boats on French coastline

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”

The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
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
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.”

EXCLUSIVE: He is the star who lights up millions of homes every weekend, but the greatest moment of Declan Donnelly’s year happens far away from the flashing cameras and roaring applause—in the cold, unforgiving streets of his native Newcastle.

Sources have revealed a staggering, heart-melting secret: Dec, 49, and his wife Ali Astall, 46, have been quietly funding a critical emergency shelter for the city’s rough sleepers, pouring over £1 MILLION into a trust fund to keep the doors open during the most brutal winter months.

This is the exclusive story of the deep, personal anguish that drives Dec’s hidden crusade—an act of compassion so fiercely protected and strictly anonymous that only a leaked document could expose the profound generosity of Britain’s most beloved TV star.

THE WINTER SECRET UNRAVELED

The temperatures had plummeted, blanketing the North East of England in a cruel, icy grip. As the public worried about burst pipes, a critical crisis was unfolding: the local emergency homeless shelter, a lifeline for hundreds, was dangerously close to running out of funds amidst a surge in demand.

Then, a miracle happened.

“It was completely surreal,” recounted a staff member at a local charity, speaking strictly on the condition of anonymity. “We received a massive, unexpected transfer. It was enough to cover staffing, heating, and food supplies for the entire severe cold weather period, with enough left over to guarantee ten years of future operational capacity.”

The money had been routed through a highly sophisticated, anonymous trust—a classic technique used by high-net-worth individuals determined to avoid public thanks. But a bureaucratic error, a misplaced bank transfer confirmation seen by a municipal source, inadvertently revealed the identity of the mysterious benefactor: Declan and Ali Donnelly.

“They were furious it got out,” the source admitted. “But the charity insisted it was too big, too important to be kept a secret forever. This isn’t just a donation; it’s the survival guarantee for hundreds of lives in his hometown.” The scale of the gift is estimated to be close to £1 million over the next few years, ensuring that no one freezes on the streets of Newcastle again.

THE GHOSTS OF HOME

Dec Donnelly’s decision to commit such a significant personal fortune to a single, anonymous cause stems from a deep, almost haunting personal connection to his roots.

Unlike many London-centric stars, Dec and Ant have always worn their Geordie heritage like a badge of honour. But for Dec, his memories of Newcastle carry a dual edge: professional success and personal sorrow.

A close childhood friend revealed that Dec has long been tormented by the memory of the city’s vulnerable population. “Dec never forgot the bitter cold of winter in the North East. He grew up seeing men and women struggling on the streets where he played as a boy. When he made it big, he didn’t just buy a house in London—he made a vow to the place that made him.”

The friend explained that Dec carries an intense, silent “burden of fortune.”

“He sees the contrast between his own comfortable life and the despair on those pavements, and it affects him deeply. It’s not about guilt; it’s about duty. He views this shelter not as charity, but as him simply correcting a profound wrong in the city he loves. That’s why the anonymity was so crucial—he didn’t want the story to be about him, but about the mission.”

ALI ASTALL: THE SILENT ARCHITECT OF KINDNESS

Behind every great act of generosity is often a meticulous planner, and in the Donnelly household, that person is Ali Astall.

As Dec’s wife and former manager, Ali is the gatekeeper of their privacy and the architect of their philanthropic strategy. It was Ali who reportedly set up the blind trust and managed the initial negotiations with the local council, ensuring zero fanfare and maximum impact.

“Ali is fiercely protective of Dec’s motivations,” an associate noted. “She understood that for this gesture to mean something to him, it had to be completely pure, untainted by PR. She knows the TV machine and actively worked to circumvent it. She ensured the money went directly to where it was needed: heating, beds, and staff wages.”

Their joint effort proves the depth of their shared values. While Dec is the face of entertainment, Ali is the quiet force ensuring their immense wealth is used for genuine, life-saving change, away from the judgmental eyes of celebrity culture.

THE CONTRAST WITH THE LONDON GLAMOUR

The irony of the situation is poignant. Dec spends his weeks at the glamorous nexus of British showbiz, dining at exclusive London haunts and jetting off to film in exotic locations like Australia for I’m A Celebrity.

Yet, while others use their wealth to buy lavish, visible assets, Dec’s mind remains fixed 300 miles north, on the invisible people struggling in the shadows of his hometown.

One senior ITV colleague, reflecting on Dec’s character, said: “He’ll deliver the most sensational segment on Saturday Night Takeaway, then five hours later, he’s on a private call to a charity worker in Newcastle discussing boiler maintenance for a hostel. That’s the duality of Dec Donnelly. He is the king of chaos on TV, but a man of silent order and deep morality in his private life.”

This quiet commitment stands in stark contrast to the often-performative philanthropy seen across social media, cementing Dec’s status as a genuine moral compass in the often-shallow world of show business.

THE VOICE OF THE HOMELESS

The true impact of the anonymous donation is best measured by the relief it brought to those in need.

A spokesperson for the funded trust, now forced to acknowledge the celebrity backing, shared a powerful, anonymized account: “We had one man, mid-fifties, who had given up hope. When he was told the shelter would stay open indefinitely, he just broke down. He said, ‘Someone cares enough to save me from the snow.’ That person was Dec.”

The local community response has been overwhelming, with social media flooding with messages of pride—a feeling far deeper than mere fan adoration. “He’s one of us,” read one viral tweet from Newcastle. “He didn’t forget the cold.”

The ultimate victory here belongs not to the TV star who earned the money, but to the humane heart that chose to spend it anonymously on those who have nothing.

Dec Donnelly continues to prove that his real success isn’t measured in viewing figures or BAFTA trophies. It’s measured in the warmth of a life saved from the frost—a silent miracle funded by a devoted Geordie son who refused to forget the streets that shaped him.

The fact he wanted this gift to remain hidden only amplifies its true value, cementing Declan Donnelly’s legacy as Britain’s genuine, quiet humanitarian.