Coronation Street reveals first look at Todd’s special episode after worrying cliffhanger

The big scenes air on Monday.

Coronation Street has shared a first look at Todd Grimshaw and Theo Silverton’s powerful special episode – and it’s the long-running soap as we’ve never seen it before. The show will experiment with a unique style, for one night only, as Todd and Theo’s disturbing story takes its latest twist.

Show bosses recently announced that Monday’s episode (15 December) will explore the latest drama for Todd and Theo through the perspective of various in-universe cameras. These will include doorbell cams, CCTV, police body cams and the hidden recording devices that Todd has planted around his and Theo’s flat

Corrie left fans on a worrying cliffhanger last night, as Gary Windass mentioned that he’d overheard a disturbance at Todd and Theo’s place. This fuelled George Shuttleworth and Christina Boyd’s fears that something strange is going on involving Todd.

Monday’s episode sees the show flash back to what happened in the build-up to Todd and Theo’s mysterious and concerning incident.

A newly-released spoiler clip shows the opening scene of this special ‘behind closed doors’ episode, as Todd’s friend Sarah Barlow arrives unexpectedly at the flat.

As seen on doorbell footage, Sarah asks to be let inside, which leaves Todd feeling uneasy. Abusive Theo has previously ordered Todd to cut Sarah out of his life, so Todd is wary of going against his demands.

When Sarah makes it clear that she won’t take no for an answer, Todd reluctantly buzzes her in.

Hit play below for a first look at the scene:

Speaking recently about overseeing this first-of-its-kind episode, Coronation Street director Matt Hilton explained: “It felt like a really bold idea to show it in this intimate and voyeuristic way that I’d never seen done before. As a fan of the true crime genre, I could see how it could work if we did it right, something that would be intriguing for the viewer and make them feel uncomfortable in watching it all take place.”

Gareth Pierce, who plays Todd, added: “We were discovering how to play to that style of filming ‘on the job’, so it felt like an exciting collaborative adventure for all departments.

“I think I anticipated it might feel like we were watching Corrie characters through a haze, a slight step further back from the action, but it actually has the opposite effect where it feels like it brings us closer, like we’re eavesdropping on our characters and seeing something we shouldn’t. I haven’t seen the full episode yet, but the bits I have seen are very effective and disorientating.”

EMOTIONAL UPDATE  Amy Dowden Reveals Reality of Healing After Cancer Surgery

Strictly star Amy Dowden has issued a post-operation update, just weeks after getting a second mastectomy.

The Welsh dancer, 35, opened up in a video for her followers on Instagram earlier today (Tuesday, December 9).

Amy was at a carol service hosted by Breast Cancer Now last night (Credit: BBC)

Amy Dowden on ’emotional’ night at Breast Cancer carol service

Last night saw Amy give a reading at Breast Cancer Now’s Carol Concert at St Peter’s Church.

Reflecting on the night on her Instagram story today, Amy opened up about how one speech in particular last night “resonated” with her.

“I had the most wonderful day last night [at] the Breast Cancer Now Christmas Carol service. I had the honour to do a reading. It was just one special night. Met so many wonderful ladies who are going through breast cancer, have secondary breast cancer, to those who are on the other side,” she said.

Speaking about a speech from a breast cancer survivor who she sought advice from following her own diagnosis, Amy said: “Certain things she said in her speech, I could really relate to and it really helped me. She said how she’s no longer emotionally attached to her body, especially her boobs. Well, I’ve got two new ones.”

Amy issued an update (Credit: @amy_dowden / Instagram)

‘A cancer diagnosis never leaves you’

The pro dancer continued, saying: “Then she said how proud she is of her body for all it’s got her through and for standing there today, and allowing her to do all she can today. And I was just like, ‘Oh, absolutely’.

“It was quite emotional as well. It really touched me and it made me even more grateful last night to be where I am today, celebrating and looking forward to the run-up to Christmas, the Strictly final,” she then continued. She then revealed that filming of the Christmas special is today.

Amy then continued, saying: “Last night was another reminder to go grab life, as Nikki would say, and don’t hold back. Yes, a cancer diagnosis never leaves you but gosh, I’m one of the lucky ones.

“I will do all I can, like this incredible soul I just spoke about, to continue to raise awareness and to give back to all that helped me during a really tough period of my life.”

Amy underwent an op last month (Credit: ITV)

Amy on her preventative mastectomy

Speaking on Lorraine last week, Amy opened up about undergoing a second mastectomy and how she “can’t” go through another cancer diagnosis.

The mastectomy is to prevent her cancer from coming back after specs were found in her left breast.

“This is preventative. I’m young. I want children. I would do anything to just have my old life back and not be going through this,” she admitted during the segment.

“I certainly don’t want to have surgery again. But what I do know is I can’t go through another cancer diagnosis again. I can’t,” she said.

At the end of the segment, Amy expressed her hopes for the future.

“I would really love to be back dancing, a little bit, in the Strictly final,” she said.

The Formula 1 paddock is no stranger to drama, but the latest revelations surrounding the departure of Christian Horner and his enduring bond with Max Verstappen have sent shockwaves through the sport. For months, the narrative suggested a clean break between the man who built the Red Bull dynasty and the driver who became its greatest crown jewel. However, a candid interview has pulled back the curtain on a reality that is far more complex, emotional, and strategically charged than anyone dared to imagine.

The Secret Connection: “We Never Stopped Talking”

In an extraordinary revelation that has left analysts stunned, Max Verstappen recently confirmed that his relationship with Christian Horner did not end when Horner was unceremoniously dismissed from Red Bull Racing in July 2025. Despite the internal “unrest” and the arrival of new management under Laurent Mekies, the three-time world champion maintained constant, secret contact with his former mentor during the most intense title fight of his career.

Verstappen revealed that Horner was a persistent presence in the background, sending messages of encouragement every single race weekend—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. “Christian ultimately went through fire for me,” Verstappen stated, referencing their shared history and the legendary 2021 battle. This wasn’t just professional courtesy; it was a lifeline. While the world watched Verstappen claw back a massive points deficit against Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, Horner was there, acting as a silent advisor and a “biggest fan.” This enduring loyalty highlights a deep-seated rift between Verstappen and the Red Bull hierarchy, suggesting that the “bond” built over a decade of dominance remains unbroken by corporate politics.

Horner’s $60 Million Revenge: The Alpine Takeover

While Verstappen battles on the track, Christian Horner is reportedly using his staggering £60 million ($76 million) severance payout to plot a comeback that would redefine the F1 grid. Reports from The Telegraph indicate that Horner is not looking for a mere job; he is looking for power. He is currently in active negotiations to acquire a significant 24% ownership stake in the Alpine F1 team.

The opportunity is ripe. Alpine, which finished a dismal 10th in the 2025 Constructor’s Championship, is a team in desperate need of an architect. The current investment group, Otro Capital—which famously includes Hollywood stars like Ryan Reynolds, Michael B. Jordan, and sports icons like Rory McIlroy—is reportedly looking for an exit strategy. Horner, whose gardening leave expires in April 2026, is positioning himself to step into the void. The irony is palpable: the man who led Red Bull to the summit may soon own the team that currently sits at the very bottom. With Alpine switching to Mercedes engines in 2026, Horner could be holding the keys to the sport’s next great turnaround.

A Grid in Turmoil: The Fallout of Horner’s Return

The potential return of Horner to the paddock as a team owner brings a volatile dynamic to the 2026 season. His relationship with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff remains “frosty at best,” and with Mercedes set to supply Alpine’s engines, the two rivals will be forced into a forced marriage of technical necessity. Furthermore, the accusations from Red Bull’s Helmut Marko regarding “dirty tricks” suggest that Horner’s return will be anything but a quiet affair.

For Alpine, the move represents a gamble on credibility. The team has become a revolving door for talent, recently replacing rookie Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto after only six races. Lead driver Pierre Gasly’s public frustration—demanding the team “hide the car” from his sight—underscores the toxic atmosphere Horner would inherit. Yet, Horner’s track record of turning struggling operations into winners is exactly why Alpine’s desperate leadership might hand him the reigns.

Verstappen’s Own Crossroads: Mercedes and Endurance Dreams

As Horner plots his return, Max Verstappen is facing a transformative period of his own. Recent sightings of Verstappen testing a Mercedes AMG GT3 at Estoril have fueled rumors of a shift in his private racing ventures, moving away from Ferrari machinery toward the Silver Arrows. This move is more than just a brand change; it’s a signal of his growing interest in endurance racing, specifically the grueling Nurburgring 24 Hours.

However, the 2026 F1 calendar poses a significant threat to these ambitions. With wholesale regulation changes and Red Bull launching its first in-house power unit, Verstappen admitted that balancing F1 with outside racing will be “very complicated.” The scheduling conflicts are brutal, with six NLS preparatory rounds clashing directly with Grand Prix weekends. Verstappen finds himself at a juncture where he must choose between the pursuit of a fifth world title and the personal racing passions that keep his fire burning.

The Dawn of a New Era

We are witnessing the beginning of what could be the most compelling storyline in modern Formula 1. On one side, a deposed king (Horner) prepares to reclaim his throne through sheer financial might and tactical genius. On the other, the sport’s greatest driver (Verstappen) navigates a future that feels increasingly disconnected from the team that made him a legend.

Will Horner transform Alpine from a “laughingstock” into a championship contender? Will Verstappen’s loyalty to his former boss eventually lead him away from Red Bull? As the 2026 season approaches, the secret conversations and “Friday messages” may very well be the foundation of the next great F1 empire. One thing is certain: the era of Red Bull dominance as we knew it is over, and the era of the Horner-Verstappen shadow-alliance has just begun.

BREAKING: Amber Davies’ Strictly Dream SHAKEN as Glitterball Odds Take a Hit

Strictly star Amber Davies’ odds of lifting the Glitterball Trophy are slipping, according to the bookmakers.

The Welsh West End star, 29, narrowly avoided elimination last week after finding herself in the dance-off against Lewis Cope.
Amber and Nikita were in the bottom two (Credit: BBC)

Strictly star Amber Davies’ odds at Glitterball trophy win slip

Days after finding herself in the bottom two, Amber has now seen her chances of winning the Glitterball trophy slip.

According to BetMGM, the Love Island champ is now 40/1 to win the trophy with her pro dance partner, Nikita Kuzmin.

She is also at 8/5 to be eliminated next, just behind Balvinder Sopal. She is the favourite to leave this weekend at 4/7.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the scale, Karen Carney and George Clarke are sitting pretty.

The Lionesses legend and the TikTok star are currently 4/5 and 9/10 to win the show’s grand prize.
Karen and Carlos are favourites to win (Credit: BBC)

Karen Carney ‘slight’ favourite to win

Meanwhile, Balvinder is 34/1 to win, with Amber languishing below her.

Brand Director at BetMGM, Dan Towse, said: “This year’s Strictly is shaping up to be one of the tightest in history, with both Karen Carney and George Clarke odds-on to win it.

“We make Carney the slight favourite at 4/5, but with Clarke 9/10 it’s all to play for ahead of the semi-finals this weekend,” he then added.
Alexis and George are also favourites (Credit: BBC)

What dances are the stars performing this week?

Earlier today (Tuesday, December 9), the official Strictly social media accounts revealed what dances the stars will be performing this weekend.

Each couple will perform twice.

Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin will be performing a Couple’s Choice to Fly Me To The Moon by Raye. They will also perform a tango to Higher by Michael Bublé.

George Clarke and Alexis Warr will perform a Charleston to We No Speak Americano by Yolanda Be Cool. They’ll then dance a Samba to Volare by Gipsy Kings.

Karen Carney and Carlos Gu are set to perform a Salsa to Turn The Beat Around by Vicki Sue Robinson, followed by a Waltz to One Moment In Time by Whitney Houston.

Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon will perform the same dances as Karen and Carlos, just the other way round. They’ll perform a Waltz to At This Moment by Michael Bublé.

They’ll then perform a Salsa to a mix of Rhythm Is Gonna Get You and Get On Your Feet by Gloria Estefan.

But who will impress enough to book their slot in the final? T-minus four days until we find out!

Read more: Strictly Come Dancing: Motsi Mabuse speaks out as trolls target Amber Davies

Strictly continues on Saturday, December 13 at 6.35pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

PETE WICKS POURS £5M INTO SANCTUARY TO RESCUE 13 ABANDONED PUPPIES – ONE HEARTFELT WORD THAT FROZE THE ROOM! CQ1

In the glittering world of reality TV, where scandals and spotlights often steal the show, Pete Wicks has always been the wildcard—the tattooed heartthrob from The Only Way Is Essex who traded party nights for paw prints. But beneath the Essex swagger lies a fierce advocate for the voiceless, a man whose love for dogs runs deeper than any scripted drama. In a move that left animal lovers worldwide in awe, Wicks, now a self-made millionaire from his TV empire and bestselling books, stunned everyone by splashing out £5 million on a sprawling dream farm in the English countryside. His mission? To rescue 13 terrified puppies, mere hours from the slaughterhouse, and give them—and countless others—a fighting chance at life.

The story unfolded like a scene from one of Wicks’ own emotional documentaries. It was a crisp autumn morning in rural Essex when Wicks received the desperate call from Dogs Trust, the UK charity he’s long championed. Thirteen mixed-breed pups—barely weaned, shivering in a dingy crate—had been dumped at a notorious puppy mill on the outskirts of London. Bred for profit in squalid conditions, these innocents were slated for the bolt gun at a local abattoir, their tiny lives reduced to a grim ledger entry. “They were skin and bones, eyes wide with fear that no puppy should know,” Wicks later recounted, his voice cracking in a recent interview. With his fortune built from TOWIE residuals, endorsement deals, and his heartfelt book For the Love of Frenchies, he didn’t hesitate. Within hours, the farm was his—a 100-acre haven complete with heated kennels, organic meadows for romps, and a state-of-the-art vet clinic.

But this wasn’t just a celebrity flex; it was a calculated strike against the underbelly of the pet trade. Wicks, drawing from his 2017 odyssey to South Korea where he helped Humane Society International liberate 170 dogs from a dog meat farm, knew the stakes all too well. There, amid the stench of despair, he’d witnessed horrors that haunted him: cages stacked like prison cells, dogs bred solely for brutality. “I held one in my arms, a Jindo mix like these pups, and promised we’d end this nightmare,” he said. Back in the UK, the puppy farming crisis rages on—thousands of dogs suffer annually in hidden hellholes, pumped full of hormones and separated from mothers too soon. Wicks’ farm, dubbed “Paw Haven,” aims to dismantle that cycle, partnering with rescues to rehabilitate and rehome while funding raids on illegal breeders.

The turning point came during the farm’s grand opening, a star-studded affair buzzing with influencers, vets, and tearful volunteers. As champagne flowed and the 13 pups—now renamed Hope, Valor, and their playful siblings—tumbled across the grass, Wicks stepped to the mic. The room hushed as he shared a raw, unspoken truth from his Korean mission, a single, bone-chilling phrase that echoed like thunder: “Every meal on those tables was someone’s Eric.” Eric, his loyal French Bulldog rescue, the furry anchor who pulled Wicks from personal darkness after a string of heartbreaks and losses. The words hung heavy, a visceral reminder that behind every statistic is a soul like Eric’s—loyal, loving, irreplaceable. Gasps rippled through the crowd; donors pledged double, celebrities vowed campaigns, and the room transformed from celebration to crusade.

Wicks’ act ripples far beyond those 13 lives. Paw Haven will house up to 500 dogs yearly, offering therapy programs for trauma and spay/neuter clinics for strays. It’s a beacon in a world where animal welfare battles corporate greed, inspired by global shifts: South Korea’s 2024 dog meat ban, now under enforcement, and the UK’s push for stricter breeding laws. Yet challenges loom—rising costs, black-market breeders evading crackdowns. “This farm isn’t my trophy,” Wicks insists. “It’s their fortress. And if one whisper can silence doubt, imagine what a roar we can make together.”

Pete Wicks’ journey—from Essex lad to dog-saving dynamo—proves that true power lies not in fame, but in fierce compassion. As the pups chase sunbeams on their new turf, one thing’s clear: in the war for the innocent, Wicks isn’t just fighting; he’s rewriting the ending.

The winds of change are blowing through Maranello with a ferocity not seen in a decade. As Formula 1 stands on the precipice of the 2026 technical regulations—the most significant rules overhaul in the sport’s history—Ferrari has decided that playing it safe is no longer an option. Under the leadership of Fred Vasseur, the Scuderia is embarking on a daring, multi-layered strategy designed to not only produce a championship-winning machine but to salvage the legacy of the most successful driver in history: Lewis Hamilton.

The “Spec A” Deception: Launching Early, Racing Late

In a move that has caught the paddock by surprise, Ferrari has announced one of the earliest launch dates for the 2026 season. On January 23rd, the world will get its first glimpse of the new scarlet machine, likely at the historic Fiorano test track. However, insiders suggest that what we see in January will be a far cry from what lines up on the grid in Australia.

Ferrari is adopting a “Spec A” philosophy, a tactic reminiscent of Mercedes’ dominant years. By launching early with a basic, reliability-focused specification, the team aims to iron out the inevitable “niggles” that come with all-new power units and active aerodynamics. This allows their engineers to work until the absolute final second—literally until January 22nd—on the high-performance “Spec B” parts that will actually be used for racing.

Team Principal Fred Vasseur has been vocal about this aggressive timing. “If you want to finish one month before, it’s not aggressive at all,” Vasseur noted. By assembling the car at the last possible moment before the Barcelona tests, Ferrari is maximizing every minute of wind tunnel and simulation time.

The Hamilton Factor: Resetting a Legend

While the technical side of the 2026 project is fascinating, the human element is even more compelling. Lewis Hamilton’s first season at Ferrari was, by his own admission, a “bitter disappointment.” The statistics tell part of the story—156 points compared to Charles Leclerc’s 242—but the body language told the rest. Hamilton struggled immensely with the ground-effect cars of the 2022-2025 era, finding the braking systems and engine-braking maps of the Ferrari “esoteric” and difficult to master.

Vasseur admits the team may have underestimated the psychological and technical toll of Hamilton moving away from the Mercedes ecosystem after a lifetime of familiarity. The 2025 season ended with Hamilton speaking of “unbearable anger and rage” after a string of Q1 exits.

For Hamilton, 2026 represents a “Great Reset.” The new regulations will move away from the finicky ground-effect requirements that stifled his signature late-braking, fast-rotation driving style. The hope within Maranello is that a more balanced car, combined with the lessons learned during a grueling 2025 transition year, will allow the seven-time champion to find his “magic” once again.

Navigating the 2026 Unknowns

The 2026 rules introduce a complex web of energy harvesting, “boost” modes, and active aerodynamics. Ferrari’s strategy isn’t just about building a fast car; it’s about building a “smart” car that can navigate the chaos of a race. Because teams have developed their 2026 designs in total isolation, the first days of testing in Barcelona will be a shock to the system.

Ferrari stopped development on their 2025 car as early as April to focus entirely on this revolution. However, they face a unique challenge: the cost cap. With limited budget freedom, Vasseur’s team cannot simply “bolt on” every new part they design. They must be surgical, choosing the upgrades that provide the “biggest bang for their buck.”

The upcoming “upgrade war” will be fought not just in the factory, but in the cockpit. Drivers will need to master complicated energy management systems while racing wheel-to-wheel. Ferrari believes that the team that climbs the “learning curve” the fastest in the opening three races will hold a decisive advantage for the rest of the decade.

A Legacy at Stake

As the January 23rd launch approaches, the pressure on Ferrari is immense. For Charles Leclerc, it’s a chance to finally assert himself as the undisputed king of Maranello. For Lewis Hamilton, it is a fight for relevance at age 40, a chance to prove that his greatness isn’t tied to a specific set of rules or a specific silver car.

Ferrari is taking no risks by being early, yet they are taking the ultimate risk by being aggressive. If the “Spec A” plan works, they will head to Melbourne with a reliability advantage and a hidden performance ceiling that could stun the field. If it fails, one of the most anticipated partnerships in sports history could end on a heartbreaking low.

One thing is certain: the world will be watching when the garage doors open at Fiorano. The red car that rolls out may only be a placeholder, but the ambition behind it is very, very real.

“THIS IS D.A.M.NING… AND THE COUNTRY DESERVES ANSWERS.” The Studio Froze As Chris Hope Unleashed A Blistering On-air Assault On Keir Starmer, Ripping Into What He Called A “Misleading, Evasive, And Deeply Troubling” Defence Of Rachel Reeves’ Budget, A Moment So Raw It Sent Shockwaves Across Live Television. With His Voice Tight And Unflinching, Hope Warned, “You Can’t Rebuild Trust While Massaging The Truth,” Accusing Labour’s Leadership Of “Spinning Figures, Dodging Responsibility, And Treating Voters Like Fools.” Starmer’s Calm Exterior Cracked Under The Pressure As The Exchange Spiralled Into A Full-blown Showdown, Viewers Flooding Social Media With Disbelief: “If This Is Transparency, What Are They Hiding?” And “How Can We Trust Anything He Says Now?” By The End, The Verdict Was Brutal — A Clash That Didn’t Just Wound A Narrative, But Carved A Scar Across Labour’s Credibility, Leaving One Searing Conclusion Hanging In The Air: When The Numbers Don’t Add Up, Neither Does The Leadership

‘How can GB News viewers trust anything you say?’ Watch Christopher Hope grill 𝘒𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳 as he rushes to Rachel Reeves’ defence

‘How can GB News viewers trust anything you say?’ Watch Christopher Hope grill 𝘒𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳 as he rushes to Rachel Reeves’ defence |

The Prime Minister defended the Chancellor’s Budget today

Prime Minister 𝘒𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳 faced a fierce grilling today as GB News Political Editor Christopher Hope challenged him on “how anyone could trust him”.

Speaking at a news conference in central London, the Prime Minister defended Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who has been accused of “misleading” the public.

Questioning Sir Keir after the speech, Christopher asked: “You wanted to tread lightly on our lives before you were elected. You said that you were different from the Tory party.

“But aren’t you exactly the same? From David Lammy repeatedly not being clear about an escaped migrant in the House of Commons to Rachel Reeves talking about a black hole that wasn’t actually there.

“Now you want to cut benefits, but trust matters. How can our viewers trust anything you say?”

Mr Starmer responded: “Chris, I simply don’t accept the starting proposition. I’m really sorry.

“When I was told that we started the Budget process at minus £16billion, I didn’t cheer. I didn’t think it was good. I thought it was a very bad starting position.

“I was curious as to why the productivity review had been done this year and not previously. But there we are. That’s the nature of the beast. It’s done, and the price is calculated, and I’m handed the tab.

Weak feeble excuses giving rise to serious fiscal consequences for our country cannot ever be glibly shrugged off with insincere comments from a Prime Minister who quite frankly never showed leadership qualities from the outset.

Christopher Hope grilled the Prime Minister after his speec

“I’m not suggesting the other figures aren’t there, but I won’t accept the proposition that somehow this was a good starting point.

“I’m £16billion down on what I thought I’d have. I know the impact that’s going to have on your viewers, because I know for them that the cost of living is the single most important issue.”

He pointed to concerns over January season ticket rises, prescription charges and energy bills, arguing that starting with a £16billion shortfall limited the choices available.

He added: “I know for them they are going to be worried at the beginning of the month in January, is their season ticket going up?

𝘒𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳 defended his Chancellor

“Because they normally get whacked with that pretty early in January. Prescription charges matter to them and their energy bills matter to them.

“There are choices, therefore, that can or can’t be done if you start with minus £16billion.

“If that hadn’t have happened, I’d have had £16billion more to weigh in the options and the choices that we made.

“I think all I can do is explain the impact that these decisions have on your viewers, and to assure them that I am well aware that the number one issue for them is the cost of living.

“I think for many of your viewers, they will, I hope, be pleased to see things like new measures going in. The childcare is a real game changer for so many parents and carers across the whole country.”

The announcement will come after the Conservative’s described the Budget as one for “benefits street”, following the Chancellor’s decision to lift the two-child benefit cap from April, at a cost of £3billon.

In response, Tory Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride said: “It is frankly laughable to hear the prime minister say Rachel Reeves’ Benefits Street budget has put the country on the right course and that he wants to fix the welfare system.

“His Chancellor has just hiked taxes by £26bn to pay for a welfare splurge, penalising people who work hard and making them pay for those who don’t work at all.

“And she misrepresented why she was doing it, claiming there was a fiscal black hole to fill that she knew didn’t exist.

“Labour’s leadership have repeatedly shown they lack the backbone to tackle welfare and instead are just acting to placate their left-wing backbenchers.”

Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available content from GB new to provide a multi-dimensional perspective. It is not intended to attack, defame, or represent any individual, organization, company, government, or political party. All views are for informational purposes only.

As Formula 1 stands on the precipice of the 2026 regulation overhaul—touted as one of the most significant changes in the sport’s history—it is time to reflect on the era that defined the last twelve years. Since 2014, the “Turbo Hybrid” era has brought us high-tech V6 engines, incredible engineering feats, and some of the most intense psychological warfare ever seen in a cockpit. But as any fan knows, not all seasons are created equal. Some years had us on the edge of our seats until the final corner, while others felt like a slow procession toward an inevitable conclusion.

The Dawn of Dominance and the “Silver War”

The era kicked off in 2014, ending the four-year reign of Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull. Mercedes AMG Petronas emerged as an unstoppable force, boasting an engine that was lightyears ahead of the competition. This period gave birth to the infamous rivalry between childhood friends Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. What started as “fun and games” quickly devolved into a bitter feud. By the middle of the season, dirty tricks in Monaco and a collision in Spa signaled that the friendship was over. While Mercedes won almost everything, the emergence of Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull—who famously embarrassed a four-time champion teammate—provided the much-needed “bangers” that kept the season in the “Mid Tier” of our rankings.

The tension peaked in 2016, a season categorized in the “Perfect Tier.” After losing the title two years running, Rosberg transformed himself into a psychological warrior. The season was defined by the double Mercedes DNF in Spain—which opened the door for an 18-year-old Max Verstappen to take his first historic win—and the nail-biting finale in Abu Dhabi. Rosberg’s immediate retirement after securing the title remains one of the most shocking exits in sports history.

Ferrari’s Hope and Heartbreak

For a brief moment in 2017 and 2018, it looked like the “Prancing Horse” would reclaim its glory. Sebastian Vettel, driving with the ghost of Michael Schumacher’s legacy on his shoulders, took the fight to Hamilton. 2017 was a “Good Tier” year, featuring a wild race in Baku and a season-altering crash in Singapore that effectively handed Hamilton the title.

However, 2018 is remembered more for the “fall of Seb.” Leading his home race at the German Grand Prix, a tiny error in the rain saw Vettel slide into the barriers. Many fans point to this exact moment as the turning point not just for the season, but for Vettel’s career. It was a year of “what ifs” that landed in the “Upper Mid Tier.”

The Rise of the New Guard

By 2019, the narrative began to shift. While Hamilton was in his prime and seemingly untouchable, a new generation was banging on the door. Charles Leclerc arrived at Ferrari and immediately proved he could contend for wins, while Max Verstappen began to shed his “Crashtappen” reputation for a more calculated, lethal approach. This year, and the pandemic-stricken 2020 season, showed us the extremes of the era. 2020 gave us the W11—the fastest F1 car ever built—and Hamilton’s record-equaling seventh title, but it also saw Ferrari fall into a “cheating” scandal that left them languishing in the midfield.

The Peak and the Pitfalls

No discussion of this era is complete without 2021. It is the gold standard of racing, placed firmly in the “2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Tier.” The season was a heavyweight bout between Hamilton and Verstappen, with the two titans entering the final race exactly equal on points. Regardless of the controversy surrounding the final laps, the sheer intensity of the 22-race battle is something the sport may never see again.

Unfortunately, the momentum didn’t last. The 2022 introduction of “Ground Effect” cars was meant to improve racing, but it initially led to “porpoising” and a lopsided development race. While 2022 had a bright start with a Leclerc vs. Verstappen battle, Ferrari’s strategic incompetence allowed Max to walk away with the trophy. This led into 2023, which occupies the “Horrible Tier.” Verstappen won 19 out of 23 races, a feat of engineering brilliance that was, unfortunately, a “snoozefest” for the neutral viewer.

Closing the Chapter

The final years of the era, 2024 and 2025, have been a mixed bag. 2024 saw a resurgence in competition as McLaren and Mercedes finally caught up to Red Bull, providing some of the best racing in years. However, 2025 felt like a step back. Despite a late title charge from Verstappen, the “Ground Effect” regulations are largely seen as a failure in their primary objective of creating closer racing.

As we look toward 2026, the Turbo Hybrid era leaves a complicated legacy. It was an era of unprecedented technical sophistication, the rise of a new GOAT in Lewis Hamilton, and the birth of a new king in Max Verstappen. It had its “Mazepin” moments of boredom, but its “Perfect” highs reminded us why we love this sport. The war of the V6 hybrids is over, and a new dawn awaits.

Kate Garraway’s Secret New Flame: “He’s Completely Healed Me” – The Mystery Man Who’s Got Her Ready to Say “I Do” Again!

Kate Garraway, the resilient Good Morning Britain anchor whose unyielding grace through unimaginable grief has made her a beacon for millions, has dropped a bombshell that’s sent shockwaves through the nation: She’s found love again, and she’s “ready to walk down the aisle once more.” In a tearful September 26, 2025, interview with Hello!, the 58-year-old broadcaster revealed the identity of her new boyfriend—former ITV colleague and entertainment editor Richard Arnold—and confessed, “He’s completely healed me.”

Arnold, 62 and a staple on This Morning since 2001, entered her life as a “dear friend” during her darkest days, but their bond blossomed into romance in early 2025, a year after the heartbreaking death of her husband Derek Draper from long Covid complications. “Richard’s been my rock – his kindness, his humor, it’s mended parts of me I thought were broken forever,” Kate shared, her eyes sparkling with a mix of joy and lingering sorrow. The couple, who first sparked rumors in May 2025 during a flirty GMB segment, have kept their relationship under wraps, but Kate’s bold admission signals a new chapter: “I want to walk down the aisle again – life’s too short not to love fully.”

The romance’s roots? Relentlessly real: Kate, widowed in January 2024 after Derek’s four-year fight (a battle chronicled in her Emmy-winning ITV docs Finding Derek and Derek’s Story, racking 8 million viewers), retreated into “survival mode” – juggling kids Darcey (18) and Billy (15), £700k medical debts, and GMB mornings. Arnold, a 30-year ITV veteran with a “cheeky chappie” charm, was a “constant” through the chaos: “He’d pop round with coffee, make me laugh when I couldn’t breathe,” Kate recalled. Their shift? Subtle but seismic: A March 2025 Cornwall getaway (her first post-Derek holiday) sealed the spark, with Richard’s “gentle persistence” melting her reservations. “Derek would approve – he always said find joy,” she whispered, honoring her late husband’s wish. The “he’s completely healed me”? A gut-punch of gratitude: Arnold’s “no pressure” approach – shared walks with Darcey and Billy, quiet dinners sans spotlight – rebuilt her “shattered self.” “He’s not trying to replace Derek – he’s adding to the love,” she affirmed, their first public hand-hold at the June 2025 BAFTAs a subtle statement.

The revelation’s ripple? Resonant: Kate’s candor, amid her Smooth Radio return and Life Stories memoir tease (2026), resonates with widows worldwide – #KateHealed trends with 3.4 million posts, “Queen’s comeback!” vs. “Derek’s ghost?” Celebs cascade: Susanna Reid’s “You deserve this glow!” tweet, Ben Shephard’s “Richard’s a gem – happy for you both!” Richard, dad to Max (25) and Lola (23), brings “ready-made family” ease: “The kids adore him – Billy’s teaching him footie!” Their future? Fiery: “Aisle again? Absolutely – when the time feels right,” Kate vowed, her “healed” heart a hymn to hope.

This isn’t rebound romance; it’s a resurrection radiant, Kate’s “ready” roar a reminder that love’s legacy lingers. Richard’s role? Restorative. The “mystery man”? Manifested. September 26? Not news—a new dawn. Fans flood with feels; the widow’s walk? Wondrous. Garraway’s glow? Golden. The chapter? Charged with chance.

“I’m About to Say Goodbye to THE LOVE OF MY LIFE…” — Fiona Phillips’ Husband Martin Frizell Breaks In Tears Hearts With Emotional Update on Her Alzheimer’s Battle

In a deeply emotional interview on Loose Women, Martin Frizell, husband of beloved television presenter Fiona Phillips, delivered a heart-wrenching update on her battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, admitting, “I’m about to say goodbye to her.” Fiona, diagnosed at 61 in 2022, has faced a relentless decline, and Martin’s candid revelations about her “horrible” current phase have left fans and viewers devastated. The former GMTV star’s journey, marked by her vibrant career and warm presence, has taken a tragic turn as Alzheimer’s reshapes their lives.

Fiona Phillips, 64, was a household name, known for her work on GMTV, This Morning, and Loose Women. Her diagnosis came as a shock, given her relatively young age, and sent ripples through the UK’s media landscape. Martin, 66, a former ITV executive, stepped back from his career to become Fiona’s primary caregiver, a role he has embraced with unwavering devotion. The couple, married since 1997 and parents to two sons, have faced the disease’s challenges together, documenting their experiences in their bestselling memoir, Remember When: My Life With Alzheimer’s, which recently reached number four on the Sunday Times bestsellers list.

Speaking on Loose Women in August 2025, Martin shared the painful reality of Fiona’s condition. “It’s a horrible phase,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion. “I’m about to say goodbye to her, in a way, because the Fiona I knew is fading.” He described how Alzheimer’s has stripped away her ability to perform simple tasks like brushing her teeth or washing her hair independently. “She can do these things physically, but she doesn’t know how to start or what to use,” Martin explained. “I put toothpaste on her brush, wash her hair, make sure she’s safe. She fights it, though—she’s still so stubborn.” This resistance, he noted, is a flicker of Fiona’s fiery spirit, but it also underscores the disease’s cruelty.

Martin highlighted small victories, noting improvements in Fiona’s mood due to new antidepressant medication. “She’s sleeping better, eating better, and there’s less confusion,” he said, but the progress is bittersweet. Fiona’s frustration peaks when watching television, a reminder of the career she loved. “She gets anxious, almost frightened, because she can’t do what she used to,” Martin shared. “She’ll see presenters on screen and get upset that she’s not working.” These moments are particularly heart-wrenching for Martin, who has spent decades in television himself, producing shows like This Morning.

The couple’s memoir has resonated widely, offering a raw look at Alzheimer’s impact. Martin recounted how they spend hours flipping through photo albums, listening to music by The Police or Sting, moments that briefly reconnect Fiona to her past. “She smiles, and it’s like seeing her again,” he said, sharing a favorite photo from a

TV shoot that captured her vitality. The book’s success, Martin noted on Instagram, has lifted Fiona’s spirits, with fans’ support providing a rare bright spot. “She wants to thank everyone who’s shown interest in her story,” he wrote. “It’s really helped her.”

Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, affects over 5 million people in the US alone, with early-onset cases like Fiona’s accounting for roughly 4%. The disease’s progressive nature means caregivers like Martin face increasing demands. He admitted the toll it takes: “Some days, I’m exhausted, but I can’t imagine not being there for her.” He emphasized the importance of preventing health complications, like tooth infections, which could worsen Fiona’s vulnerability. “It’s about keeping her healthy, keeping her with us as long as we can,” he said.

Fans have flooded social media with support, many sharing their own Alzheimer’s stories. Posts on X reflect a collective grief, with one user writing, “Fiona’s smile lit up our mornings. This breaks my heart.” Others praised Martin’s dedication, calling him “a true partner in every sense.” The Loose Women panel, visibly moved, offered resources for viewers, directing them to Alzheimer’s support organizations.

As Fiona’s condition progresses, Martin remains her anchor, navigating the balance between hope and heartbreak. The investigation into Alzheimer’s treatments continues, with recent studies offering glimmers of hope, but for now, Martin and Fiona face each day with love and resilience. Their story, shared through tears and triumphs, serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of Alzheimer’s and the power of unwavering devotion.