Month: July 2026

Donny Hathaway had already been expounding on the splendors and indignities of American life by the time he got to the Troubadour in West Hollywood in the last week of August 1971.

A classically trained pianist with a declamatory voice shaped by his years in the church, Hathaway closed Side 1 of his 1970 debut with an original called “Tryin’ Times” — “Maybe folks wouldn’t have to suffer,” he sang, “if there was more love for your brother” — and finished the LP with a stately rendition of Nina Simone’s “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.” Months after the album was released, he dropped a joy bomb of a holiday single, “This Christmas,” that unapologetically made space for a Black experience in the yuletide-industrial complex.

Donny Hathaway performs at Mister Kelly’s in Chicago in 1971.

(Val Mazzenga / Chicago Tribune / Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Yet Hathaway captured something indelibly American during his week of shows at the Troubadour, which were recorded (along with a later gig at New York’s Bitter End) for the singer’s classic “Live” album that came out in February 1972. On an LP full of spine-tingling performances, the undeniable high point is Hathaway’s take on Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend” — a clear-eyed if optimistic portrait of resilience and cultural exchange.

King — who’d made her name in the 1960s as half of a prolific Brill Building songwriting duo with her husband, Gerry Goffin — wrote “You’ve Got a Friend” after leaving Goffin and moving to Los Angeles with her two young daughters. Here she remade herself as a low-key singer-songwriter dispensing wise yet unflashy tunes about love, home and family — part of a gentle resetting of pop’s mood after the turmoil of the previous decade.

Cut like the rest of the album at A&M Studios on La Brea Avenue, “You’ve Got a Friend” helped drive King’s 1971 “Tapestry” LP to sales of more than 10 million copies and to a boatload of trophies (including album, record and song of the year) at the Grammy Awards; the singer’s pal James Taylor, whom she’d performed with for the first time in late 1970 at the Troubadour, topped Billboard’s Hot 100 with his own cover of “Friend” featuring background vocals by Joni Mitchell.

On the advice of Atlantic Records’ Jerry Wexler, Hathaway also recorded “Friend” as a studio duet with Roberta Flack, a fellow Howard University alum; their take sat in the Top 20 of Billboard’s R&B chart as Hathaway began his run at the Troubadour — popular enough that the audience on “Live” erupts at the sound of Hathaway’s opening organ lick.

Carole King at A&M Studios in Los Angeles in 1970.

(Jim McCrary / Redferns via Getty Images)

Indeed, the crowd is really the thing in this live version of “You’ve Got a Friend.” Hathaway and his band — including guitarist Phil Upchurch, bassist Willie Weeks and 16-year-old Fred White (soon to be of Earth, Wind & Fire) on drums — are cooking, to be clear; the groove is funky and viscous, and Hathaway’s vocal is gorgeous, not least in his nimble ad-libs.

But it’s his interplay with the few hundred folks in the room that elevates the recording to a deeply moving piece of art.

For King (and Taylor), the song’s promise of unflagging support is an intimate one-to-one matter; their renditions use homey acoustic arrangements to create a picture of two people exchanging confidences. In Hathaway’s hands, “Friend” is about community: Before he even asks them to, the audience takes over for him on lead vocals in the song’s chorus, a congregation in all but name.

Given the proximity to the civil rights movement, it’s impossible to hear Hathaway’s “You’ve Got a Friend” as disconnected from the struggles of Black people. At the Troubadour (as in his and Flack’s duet), he nixes the song’s second verse to arrive more quickly at the bridge, in which he describes a cold world filled with those who’d “hurt you and try to desert you” — even “take your soul if you let them.”

As Emily J. Lordi notes in her 2016 book about “Donny Hathaway Live,” the crowd lays back during the bridge before rejoining Hathaway for the song’s second chorus; the decision, somehow spontaneous and collective at once, is an expert bit of record-making on the part of an audience that, according to legend, hadn’t been told the concert was being taped.

“From this perspective,” Lordi writes of Hathaway’s fans — some number of whom had surely availed themselves of the Troubadour’s bar, as she points out — “they are not stealing the show so much as they are holding him up, ensuring he won’t sing the duet alone.” Together, performer and audience are turning back (not that they necessarily had a choice) to the ugly truths that singer-songwriter music sometimes sought to move past.

In this way, Hathaway’s “Friend” becomes a reinvention of a reinvention — an act of moral imagination about as American as it gets.

This wasn’t the only instance of a Black soul singer interpreting a tune King had written as a single mom newly arrived in L.A.: In May 1972, the Isley Brothers released a sultry cover of “It’s Too Late”; a month after that, Aretha Franklin’s live “Amazing Grace” album mashed up “You’ve Got a Friend” with “Precious Lord, Take My Hand,” completing the gospel-ification that Hathaway had begun in a bastion of white rock culture temporarily remade as an African American church.

Yet in Hathaway’s “Friend” you can hear the whole story American music tells about identity and belonging (and about commercial ambition).

“This might be a record here,” Hathaway tells the crowd near the end of the song, and so it was — a document of adaptation, a testament to borrowing, a bulwark against pretty fictions.

Happy Birthday, America!

You turned 250 on Saturday and, honestly, you don’t look a day over 249. (Ha ha.)

Seriously, it’s perfectly understandable why there’s more gray on your scalp and deeper worry lines on your face. This last year has been another challenging one, to say the least. (And we thought the one cataloged 12 months ago in this space was rough.)

The country is caught up in an unpopular, on-again, off-again war with Iran that was recklessly launched by President Trump with far more swagger than foresight. In an utterly predictable move, Iran choked off the the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passageway for the world’s oil, sending gasoline prices skyrocketing. Though they’ve fallen since the announcement of a shaky ceasefire agreement, the cost of filling up is still significantly higher than a year ago.

Of course, costlier oil means virtually everything else has become more expensive. Trump was reelected in good part because he vowed to tame inflation on his very first day in office. Instead, it’s reached a three-year high.

The ground beef served up at many July 4 cookouts costs 75 cents a pound more than it did a year ago. A package of hamburger buns is up 15 cents. The price of hot dogs and other picnic staples have also increased, along with just about every other item at the grocery store.

Chew that over with your corn on the cob. (Up roughly 2.5% from July 2025.)

Meanwhile, Trump enriched himself to the tune of $2.2 billion during his first year in office alone. Treating the U.S. treasury like his personal cash cow, the president has lavished hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars on vanity projects such as a personally kitted out Air Force One — a “gift” from Qatar that Trump plans to keep after retirement — and a gilded White House ballroom, rising where the demolished East Wing used to stand. Plans are underway for a grand, marble arch in Washington celebrating, well, you know who.

At the same time, Trump has squandered money and resources pursuing political vendettas, persecution of his enemies and fruitless investigations like the one probing “theft” of the 2020 election and “vandalism” at the algae-clogged Reflecting Pool he promised and failed to rehab.

All this while millions of Americans have lost healthcare coverage and/or federal food assistance, all thanks to the One Big Billionaire Bounty bill that Trump signed into law a year ago.

It’s all a bit unnerving isn’t it, America? You’re on edge in a way you haven’t been in at least a generation.

In Minnesota, in the dead of winter, two of your citizens were gunned down by federal officers as they engaged in that most American of exercises, registering dissent against the policies of their government. From sea to shining sea, innocent Americans have been arrested — and sometimes shipped abroad — and immigrant communities cower in fear of federal agents who often seem bent more on meeting deportation quotas than meting out justice.

You’re divided, America, in ways no one alive has ever seen.

It starts at the very top. Trump acts as though he’s president of a favored rump group — his political supporters — rather than the nation as a whole. He’s used your 250th birthday not to celebrate those many grand and glorious things that hold us together as Americans but to bask in the tanning-bed glow of his immeasurable self-regard.

But, heck, if it’s any consolation on this star-spangled holiday weekend, the country has been through worse. Much worse. And you, America, have not only survived but in many ways grown stronger by surmounting obstacles, facing down your flaws and overcoming some knee-buckling, soul-crushing challenges.

Slavery. Civil war. Racist exclusionary laws. Genocide against indigenous peoples. Two worldwide conflicts. Depression. Financial crises. And too many deadly natural disasters — fire, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes — to enumerate.

Your treatment of some Americans, it should be said, hasn’t always been fair and just. It still isn’t.

People are despairing over the Supreme Court and its genuflecting deference to the president. The justices of its conservative majority have done just about everything short of handing Trump a crown and scepter to reign as a virtually untouchable, imperial president.

But it’s worth noting that earlier court majorities held that Black Americans — “beings of an inferior order,” in the words of the wretched Dred Scott decision — could be denied citizenship, that racial segregation was constitutional and that compulsory sterilization based on eugenics was perfectly fine from a legal standpoint.

That ugly, sordid history won’t necessarily make anyone feel better about the current state of affairs, nor should it. But it does offer some perspective and, with it, hope.

This weekend is best celebrated honoring the country’s many good things and the bright, shining place that America aspires to be, with liberty and justice for all. So chin up! Have another slice of birthday cake, America, and don’t worry about the calories — you really do look terrific for 250!

Going forward it’s up to us, your citizens, to keep working toward that more perfect union mentioned in the preamble to the Constitution. Whatever ails you, America, the remedy resides with we the people and the power we hold, particularly at the ballot box.

Unhappy with the wrecking crew that’s heedlessly chain-sawed federal programs and allowed Trump to money-grub with both fists, defile the White House and undermine our rule of law? Send a message and vote ‘em out, starting in November’s midterm election. And bear in mind the damage that’s been wrought come the 2028 presidential race.

Don’t stop believing that, as dark and difficult as things may seem right now, better days lie ahead.

That undimmed and abiding faith is what makes America great.

England famously found itself on the wrong side of World Cup history at Azteca Stadium, surrendering Diego Maradona’s iconic “Hand of God” goal and another strike known as the tournament’s “most beautiful goal.”

Maradona and eventual champion Argentina eliminated England 2-1 in the quarterfinals of the 1986 World Cup, leaving the Brits to stew over their link to a soccer legend.

England will return to Azteca Stadium on Sunday to take on World Cup co-host Mexico in a round-of-16 match kicking off at 5 p.m. PDT and airing on Fox and Telemundo.

England coach Thomas Tuchel said during interviews before their departure for Mexico that this will be a way to “make amends” with the stadium that hosted a goal Maradona punched in with his fist, and “karma will come back for us.”

Argentina’s Diego Maradona punches the ball past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton to score his “Hand of God” goal during a 1986 World Cup match at Azteca Stadium.

(Getty Images / Getty Images)

“It’s one of the most beautiful, most exciting matchups you can have — playing Mexico at the Azteca,” Tuchel said during a news conference after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the round of 32.

But the road to Azteca Stadium hasn’t been easy for England.

England enters this matchup after a hard-fought victory over Congo. The African team took the lead and had chances to extend it, but ultimately paid dearly for squandering those opportunities. Top England scorer Harry Kane stepped up with two decisive goals that helped his team advance. It was England’s first World Cup victory after trailing 1-0 since the 1966 final, which the English team won as a tournament host.

The English have to contend with not only the ghost of Maradona’s two goals, but also the altitude in Mexico City, which is about 7,350 feet above sea level.

Mexico has lost only two of 89 matches at Azteca Stadium, winning 70 and tying 17. The last time it lost an official match there was a 2-1 defeat to Honduras in a 2013 World Cup qualifier.

“There will be many obstacles — the altitude will be a major disadvantage because we can’t acclimate to it,” Tuchel said. “Let’s hope that when we face difficulties along the way, we’ll find the answers.”

Mexico players celebrate after the team’s World Cup win over Ecuador at Azteca Stadium on Tuesday.

(Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Tuchel noted his team got accustomed to heat and humidity while training in the United States.

“At the end of the day, it’s a soccer game,” said England’s Marcus Rashford, who also plays for Manchester United. “We’ve all been playing soccer since we were kids, and we’ve played in different environments and under different conditions — some more difficult than others, some in terrible places. But it’s up to us to find a way to win and to work as a team.”

England expects to face an intense atmosphere, with the majority of more than 80,000 fans backing Mexico.

“It’s one of the great stadiums in soccer. Playing there is a blessing. Mexico is probably the favorite. They’re at home, playing on their home turf; it will be a big challenge for us, but we’ll be ready,” England’s Marc Guehi told the BBC.

The match also will pose a significant challenge for the Mexican team, which has not conceded a goal during the World Cup but will face an English side that excels in aerial play, with lethal scorers like Kane and Jude Bellingham. Mexico’s defensive performance has been credited to the direction of Rafa Márquez, a former Barcelona player who is one of Mexico’s assistant coaches.

“They’re high-caliber players who can make a difference at any moment, and we have to take advantage of playing at home and maintain our current level of play because no one has given us anything for free,” said veteran backup goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, another key voice supporting Mexico’s defensive effort.

Less than 72 hours before the game, FIFA explored moving the evening kickoff to noon local time — a change that would have completely disrupted the sporting, logistical and emotional planning of both teams.

FIFA first weighed the unprecedented change reportedly because of the threat of thunderstorms. The Athletic and media outlets covering both teams later reported security concerns after the death of four Mexico fans during round-of-32 postgame celebrations triggered the potential change, but both team pushed back, and Mexico’s security officials assured FIFA they could keep fans safe. FIFA relented and did not change the start time.

Mexico’s Álvaro Fidalgo celebrates after scoring against Czechia during a World Cup match at Azteca Stadium on June 24.

(Silvia Izquierdo / Ap Photo/silvia Izquierdo)

“No one wants a celebration — such an important moment, a once-in-a-lifetime moment — to turn into a sad occasion because of certain things. We don’t want anyone to lose a loved one,” Mexico midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo said.

Contrary to what many experts expected, Mexico has breezed through the group stage and the second round at home. Coach Javier Aguirre has eased some of the pressure on himself by leading the team to its fifth World Cup match — a feat Mexico had not achieved in eight consecutive World Cups. Two of those failed attempts came under Aguirre’s leadership: in 2002, when Mexico lost to the United States, and in 2010, when it lost to Argentina — both in the round of 16.

“We’ll try to keep this momentum going at home,” Aguirre said. “We’ll try to play a complete game.”

With the support of its fans and a sense of hope that grows with every game, the Mexican team will seek to match its best performances from 1986 and 1970 — World Cups it hosted, though with fewer participating teams.

Mexico’s Raúl Jiménez celebrates after scoring against South Africa during a World Cup match at Azteca Stadium on June 11.

(Carl Recine / Getty Images)

“We have to let them know that we’re just as good,” said Raúl Jiménez, Mexico’s leading scorer. “That we can compete on equal terms, we can play a good game, and we have the support of the fans. It doesn’t matter which goalkeeper is in front of us — if we put it in the corner, no goalkeeper can stop it.”

Advancing past England would mark the first time Mexico defeated a past champion in a knockout round, and it also would be the first time the team strung together two knockout-round victories in a World Cup, after beating Ecuador in the round of 32.

Mexico defeated past champions France and Germany in 2010 and 2018, respectively, but those wins came in the group stage.

“It’s a match everyone always dreams of. Being in the round of 16 at the Azteca — not just saying it, but even thinking about it — is incredible,” Fidalgo said. “We have to rise to the occasion.”

The FIFA World Cup round of 16 on Sunday has two heavyweight ties as Brazil face Norway in New Jersey before cohosts Mexico take on England in Mexico City.

Here’s the full schedule, Opta’s predictions and the latest news from the tournament, including Morocco’s march into the quarterfinals and France’s fiery win over Paraguay.

What is Sunday’s schedule?

• Brazil vs Norway: 4pm (20:00 GMT) at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States
• Mexico vs England: 6pm (00:00 GMT into Monday) at Mexico City Stadium

What are the predictions for Brazil vs Norway?

Brazil will be hoping to end an unwanted trend when they face Norway in the round of 16.

The teams have met four times previously in all competitions, and Norway have yet to lose the fixture. The Scandinavians have won twice and drawn twice, including a memorable 2-1 victory over Brazil at the 1998 World Cup.

Despite those historical trends, the Opta supercomputer calculates Brazil as the clear favourites. After running 25,000 pre-match simulations, Brazil won in regulation time in 53.6 percent of the outcomes.

Norway claimed victory within 90 minutes in 22.4 percent of the simulations while 24 percent ended level after normal time, sending the tie to extra time and potentially penalties.

What are the predictions for Mexico vs England?

England and Mexico have crossed paths only once before at the World Cup, and that meeting dates back nearly 60 years.

The encounter came during the group stage of the 1966 tournament when tournament hosts England secured a 2-0 victory, thanks to goals from Bobby Charlton and Roger Hunt. The Three Lions went on to lift the trophy that summer, claiming the only World Cup title in their history.

England have also enjoyed the upper hand in the fixture outside the World Cup, winning each of their last four meetings with Mexico. Those victories all came in international friendlies played from 1986 to 2010.

Opta’s supercomputer predicted one of the closest contests of the round of 16 with neither side holding a decisive advantage.

England enter the tie with a favourable historical record against Mexico, but El Tri’s home support and familiarity with the conditions help narrow the gap.

Across 25,000 simulations, England won in normal time 40.6 percent of the time, while Mexico did so in 31.5 percent. A further 27.9 percent of simulations ended level after 90 minutes, meaning the match would require extra time and possibly a penalty shootout.

Remaining round of 16 schedule:

• Brazil vs Norway: Sunday, New York New Jersey Stadium, 20:00 GMT
• Mexico vs England: Sunday, Mexico City Stadium, 00:00 GMT going into Monday
• Portugal vs Spain: Monday, Dallas Stadium, 19:00 GMT
• USA vs Belgium: Monday, Seattle Stadium, 00:00 GMT going into Tuesday
• Argentina vs Egypt: Tuesday, Atlanta Stadium, 16:00 GMT
• Switzerland vs Colombia: Tuesday, BC Place Vancouver, 20:00 GMT

What else is happening?

Morocco’s historic quarterfinal run

Morocco reached the World Cup quarterfinals for a second consecutive tournament after defeating cohosts Canada 3-0 on Saturday with Azzedine Ounahi scoring twice to end the North Americans’ historic run.

The final score did not reflect the balance of the game. Canada controlled much of the first half, creating several promising chances while keeping Morocco from registering their first shot until the 28th minute.

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi was visibly frustrated on the touchline before the break as misplaced passes and sloppy errors disrupted his side’s rhythm, but the team responded with a much-improved display after half-time.

“It’s a World Cup match, and these are difficult games with teams playing for their lives,” Ouahbi said. “We reacted very well in the second half, especially in the duels and in winning the second balls.

Was Paraguay’s play ‘dirty’?

France captain Kylian Mbappe insisted his side were prepared to match Paraguay’s physical approach after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory on Saturday to reach the World Cup quarterfinals.

Mbappe, who converted the decisive penalty in the 70th minute after Desire Doue was fouled in the area, dismissed the suggestion that France were unsettled by Paraguay’s aggressive tactics.

“They thought we’d come out in tuxedos, trying fancy tricks and one-twos,” Mbappe said. “But we know how to play dirty football too. If that’s what the game requires, we have no problem doing it.”

The winning penalty was awarded only after a VAR review with France coach Didier Deschamps questioning referee Ilgiz Tantashev’s handling of the increasingly physical contest.

“We received three yellow cards while they kept fouling us throughout the game,” Deschamps said. “Every team is entitled to play in its own way, but I could have done without some of the insults from the opposition.”

Mexico’s fortress awaits England

Mexico will look to end a 40-year wait to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals when they face England on Sunday, backed by one of international football’s strongest home records.

The cohosts have lost only two official matches at Mexico City Stadium since it opened in 1966 with the last defeat coming against Honduras in a World Cup qualifier in 2013.

Former Mexico striker Hugo Sanchez believes the stadium could once again make the difference.

“The stadium is a monster; that explains the high number of wins and draws and the few losses, which were just accidents. We approach this with optimism because we know it’s England, but if we play the way we did against Ecuador, we can beat them.”

Mexico’s World Cup record at the stadium reflects that dominance. Across the 1970, 1986 and 2026 tournaments, El Tri have played 10 World Cup matches there, winning eight and drawing two. In this year’s tournament, they have beaten South Africa, Czechia and Ecuador in Mexico City without conceding a goal while also defeating South Korea in Guadalajara.

South Africa is experiencing an ugly wave of xenophobia driven by a coordinated digital campaign by anti-migrant groups.

As prejudiced rhetoric seeps into mainstream news coverage, a growing number of South African journalists are trying to figure out who’s really pulling the strings behind the movement.

Contributors: 
Qaanitah Hunter – Host, The Debrief
Aimee-Noel Mbiyozo – Senior research consultant, Institute for Security Studies
Haru Mutasa – Correspondent, Al Jazeera English
Herman Wasserman – Department of Journalism, Stellenbosch University

On our radar

In Venezuela, a natural disaster has exposed the state’s failures and officials have imposed tight controls on journalists trying to cover the story.

Tariq Nafi looks at the government’s heavy-handed methods to control the narrative.

Governments around the world are trying to solve one of the defining parenting challenges of the digital age: what to do about teenagers and social media. The Listening Post‘s Meenakshi Ravi reports on the politics behind social media bans – whether governments are solving the right problem – and who should take responsibility for keeping young people safe online.

Featuring:
Preston Byrne – Tech and free speech lawyer
Daisy Greenwell  – Cofounder, Smartphone Free Childhood
Tama Leaver – Professor of internet studies, Curtin University
Kate Sim – Director, Children’s Online Safety and Privacy Research Program

A new study has named one place as the most expensive seaside destination in the UK, with a day trip costing £38.20 – meaning £100 lasts just over two days

From parking fees to the price of fish and chips or an ice cream — a classic day trip or a longer stay at a UK coastal destination could leave a serious dent in your wallet.

New research has looked at some of Britain’s most popular summer hotspots, calculating the cost of deckchair hire, a ’99’ ice cream, and a fish and chips meal — and one city has come out on top as the priciest of the lot.

The study revealed that £100 in this particular seaside spot will ‘only last just over 2 days’, according to figures drawn from the new UK Seaside Affordability Index. The data has laid bare significant differences around the British coastline in terms of how far your hard-earned cash will actually go.

When taking into account everything you’d need for a perfect day at the beach, all the must-have essentials add up to £38.20 per day in this particular city.

Brand new research from NoDepositRewards.org breaks down the cost of a traditional beach day out at locations across the UK, reports the Express.

The study looked at all-day parking charges (based on current local council rates), the average price of a ’99’ ice cream, a large fish and chips meal (using local chippy prices) and full-day deckchair hire.

The research was carried out with the aim of establishing how long £100 would last on a seaside outing.

Brighton was named the most expensive coastal destination in the country, according to the findings. All-day parking came in at £18, while the classic ice cream was priced at £2.70.

By comparison, in the most affordable spot, Swansea, parking for the day costs just £3 and an ice cream is £1.65. A fish and chip supper in Brighton will set you back £11.50, though it’s not the priciest location for the classic British takeaway — in Bamburgh, Northumberland, the same meal will cost you £14.88.

Renting a deckchair in Brighton will generally cost around £6 for the day — meaning the total ‘seaside basket’ for a day at this popular coastal destination comes to a whopping £38.20 per day for all the essential sunny day basics.

Coming in second was the Cornish town of St Ives, labelled the ‘second priciest seaside destination in the UK’. St Ives was ranked as the second most expensive spot, with visitors forking out an average of £25.30 per day.

In St Ives, holidaymakers can expect to pay around £10 for all-day parking, £12.50 for a large fish and chips, and just over £2.50 for an ice cream.

Swansea was named as the most budget-friendly seaside destination, with the same selection of items totalling approximately £16.71 per day.

Mason Jones, data expert at NoDepositRewards.org, said: “Families are budgeting harder than ever for summer 2025.

“Our Seaside Index shows you can triple the number of beach days simply by choosing a different stretch of coast.

“With parking now topping local cost charts, the North and Wales clearly win on value.”

SCARLETT Moffatt has heartbreakingly revealed that her fiancé Scott Dobinson’s mum has passed away.

In an emotional tribute to his mum Janice, the I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! star – who is expecting her second child – said she was “so upset” that Janice wouldn’t be around to meet their second son.

Scarlett and Scott have been together since 2018 and are already parents to son Jude, revealing in April they are expecting another little one.

Announcing the sad news that Janice has passed, the star wrote to Instagram: “My heart is broken for Scott and all of his family at the loss of his mam Janice 💔

“You were the best Nanna to Jude, the kindest mother-in-law and one of the loveliest people I’ve ever known.

“I’m so upset that you won’t get to meet your second grandson but I know you will be watching over us all, I’ll forever be grateful for all the love, kindness and warmth you showed me from the very beginning, and especially for the love you gave Jude.”

BODY POSITIVE

Scarlett Moffatt on how she FINALLY overcame body hang-ups & bizarre craving

NIGHT CHANGES

Harry Styles pays tribute to late One Direction star Liam Payne at London gig

Scarlett continued: “You raised true gentlemen in both your boys, and that says everything about the incredible woman you were.

“We will miss you more than words can say. Sleep peacefully Janice, our Nan Jan”.

Scarlett and other half Scott met through mutual friends over 15 years ago, but didn’t officially start dating until 2018.

They welcomed son Jude in the summer 2023 and got engaged in November that same year.

Since revealing they are set to welcome another child back in April, Scarlett has admitted the pregnancy hasn’t been smooth sailing.

Shortly after the announcement, she told fans how she had been struggling with sickness, hot flushes and migraines.

And alongside the health woes, the star has also had a wave of pregnancy cravings.

She told The Sun in May: “I’m having different cravings to last time,” she says. “With Jude, it was honeydew melon. Sometimes I’d have a whole melon a day.

“Now it’s cheese — specifically grated cheese. I think it’s a texture thing. I want grated cheese sandwiches all the time. I can’t have the pre-grated, it’s too hard, so I’ve got Scott grating me cheese at 11pm.”

One of the Premier League’s most gripping personal feuds goes global on Sunday when Brazil face Norway in the World Cup last 16.

Norway’s irresistible force of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland comes up against Brazil’s immovable object in the shape of Arsenal defender Gabriel in New York New Jersey Stadium.

Haaland and Gabriel have been central figures as their clubs battle for domestic supremacy, creating a rivalry that regularly boils over into animosity.

The outcome of their latest confrontation will go a long way to deciding whether it is Brazil or Norway who advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face either England or Mexico.

Former England striker Chris Sutton told BBC Sport: “For all the battling for the Golden Boot between the greats such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Haaland, there have not been any great personal duels. Now we have one.

“This is the standout personal duel of the World Cup so far and make no mistake, it will have a huge bearing on the outcome of the game.

“It is the standout because of the bad feeling we know exists between the pair. I am sure there is a level of respect great players have for each other, but everything we’ve seen between them suggests they don’t like each other too much.”

Former England captain Alan Shearer is also relishing the confrontation between the pair, saying: “That will be a great battle because there is definitely a bit of niggle there.

“They don’t like each other which is fine, you don’t have to like your opponent, and we have seen them have clashes before so that’s definitely one to look forward to.”

Adding further intrigue is the statistical quirk that five-time world champions Brazil have never beaten Norway in four attempts – drawing two and losing two.

This makes Norway the only side the Selecao have faced, but never won against.

July 4 (UPI) — The Trump administration officially launched “Trump Accounts” on July 4, which have been set up for parents to save money for their children.

The accounts, which include $1,000 for each child who is born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028 — President Donald Trump‘s current term in office — can now be set up by parents after their authorization in last year’s “Big Beautiful Bill.”

The federal savings program is available for any child under 18, and can accept up to $5,000 in contributions per year, although the $1,000 seed funds for the accounts are only available to children born during Trump’s current term.

The Treasury Department said in a press release that more than 50 companies have committed to also contributing to accounts established for their employees’ children, regardless of their eligibility for the government contributed $1,000.

“Trump accounts are now live, giving every child a stake in the American Dream from day one,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement on X.

“The Trump Accounts app is now updated with the full suite of account capabilities: you can start funding your child’s account, exploring financial education modules and more,” Bessent said.

The administration said that the accounts are aimed at “helping children start with a foothold in the American from birth or early childhood” with an investment account, which is part of a program that includes educational programs for both parents and children on how investment markets work.

The power of the people is what makes the Azteca truly special.

Whether cheering on Mexico, home club sides Club America or Cruz Azul, or hosting neutral sides in the World Cup, the Azteca crowd is renowned for generating a ferocious soundtrack like nowhere else.

“It is next to impossible to communicate on the pitch because the Azteca is full of sound swirling all around you”, says Jason de Vos, one of the few men to have both played and coached against Mexico at the stadium, doing so with the Canadian national team.

“The Mexicans know they have an advantage because of the crowd and they try to swarm you on the pitch too.

“When you arrive the team bus drives under the stadium, down a ramp and then you walk to the dressing room.

“When you walk to the pitch you have to go through a very tight tunnel and you can hear a buzzing sound, like a swarm of bees.

“To get outside, you approach the pitch from below, going up a staircase, and when you crest the top and see the light, you realise that the buzzing is the people.

“It’s the vibration of the horns, the screaming, the jumping. It’s crazy

“But that’s exactly why you want to play football.”

WATCHING the morning sun sparkle on an immaculate padel court as the first players warm up, I can’t help but admire their dedication.

I, however, have a different priority in mind and a few minutes later I’m settled at a shaded table on a flower-filled terrace, enjoying breakfast of omelette, mini tortillas and crushed tomatoes on crusty bread.

Fellow guests in their pristine tennis whites head towards yet more courts as the Andalusian sun rises into a clear blue sky.

Perhaps later. For me, the comfy Balinese beds beside the terrace pool are calling.

And that’s the joy of the Higueron Hotel Malaga Curio Collection by Hilton on Spain’s Costa del Sol.

There are sporting and spa facilities that would put a posh country club to shame — and all sorts of indulgent ways to do very little but soak up all that sunshine.

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Don’t let the name fool you though.

While it has Malaga in the title, the hotel actually sits in the hills directly above the bustling, British beach favourites of Benalmadena and Fuengirola.

Malaga city itself — with its Picasso Museum and buzzing tapas bars — is an easy 30-minute drive away.

Meanwhile, the superyachts, designer boutiques and champagne-fuelled glamour of Marbella and Puerto Banus sit 30 minutes in the other direction.

Snag yourself a cheap hire car from the airport and the whole coast is your oyster.

But the joy of this hotel is just how much there is to keep you busy without ever leaving the grounds.

The extensive sporting facilities include not just the ten padel and tennis courts, but beach volleyball sand courts and three for basketball as well as indoor and outdoor pools and a huge air-conditioned gym.

The spa is just as comprehensive, with a hydro circuit in its heated pool with pressure jets, massage beds, Jacuzzi and waterfalls.

There’s also a sauna, steam rooms and dedicated rooms for treatments.

Luckily for me, the hotel had plenty to keep non-sporty guests busy.

As well as the main pools and terraces — including a stunning adult-only rooftop infinity pool — there’s also a private beach club on the coast.

A free hotel shuttle whisks you down the hill to yet more comfy lounging spots, a pool and two superb restaurants.

And what could be more indulgent on a sunshine break than food created by a Michelin-starred chef?

There are seven a-la-carte restaurants in the hotel and the beach club, three of which have menus designed by award-winning chef Diego Gallegos.

While the Michelin-starred Sollo has tasting menus at £150pp, you can still enjoy the chef’s creations at funky fusion restaurant Arara.

Its £51 tasting menu features Brazilian, Peruvian and Andalusian flavours with a South East Asian twist, with eight courses designed to be shared by diners.

For daytime indulgences, catch more chef- inspired dishes at the beach club, including clams cooked in sherry with flying fish roe and delicious prawns in a spicy pil pil sauce.

Rooms in the main resort are ultra-modern — opt for a deluxe for stunning views of the resort and Mediterranean beyond.

And if you’ve really got cash to splash, the exclusive Leiro Suites are another level.

There’s more space, Scandi designs and funky balcony furniture.

But you’ll also get the choice of breakfast at the rooftop Infinity restaurant and access to the Balinese beds there and at the Beach Club.

Also included is spa access, free guided sports activity, early check-in and late check-out and parking, as well as priority ­reservations.

The hotel offers the best of the Costa Del Sol and a host of sporting options to keep you fit and healthy.

For me though, those Balinese beds at the Infinity Rooftop are the reason

I’ll definitely be returning for the stunning views — and the most chilled of snoozes.

A VERY emotional Harry Styles paid tribute to his late One Direction bandmate Liam Payne last night at his final Wembley gig.

Harry has just completed a record-breaking 12-night stint at the iconic London stadium, with him getting emotional towards the end.

As he reflected on his career, Harry touched on being in the group One Direction, and name checked each of the boys – including Liam who sadly died in October 2024.

Harry thanked all four band members before singing Carla’s Song.

According to concert goers and various videos circulating online, Harry said: “I wanna thank Niall, Zayn, Louis and my dear friend Liam.

“Nights like these couldn’t happen without every friendship, I wouldn’t be up here without my friends and family, some of who are here tonight.”

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Harry also put a video of the boys from the beginning of the band on the big screen as the fan reacted.

One fan also pointed out that Liam’s parents were at the final show, as was Liam’s sister Ruth and her son.

“The way I started sobbing,” said one fan.

“How nice to see Liam’s mum,” penned another.

While a third wrote: “LIAM’S FAMILY AT HARRY’S SHOW TONIGHT, DON’T TALK TO ME IM EMOTIONAL.”

Liam died on October 16, 2024, at the age of 31.

He fell from a third-floor balcony at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

One Direction were formed as a boyband on The X Factor in 2010 after each of the boys auditioned separately as solo artists.

The group amassed a huge following and fan base, with them coming third place in the competition.

They then went on to have a spectacular five-year run where they released five albums and headed on world tours, even breaking America.

In 2016 the group went on an indefinite hiatus.

Fans still hope that Harry, Niall, Louis and Zayn will reunite someday.

SEATTLE — James Wilson, one of just six men who signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, never could have imagined how grand the country he was founding would become. But he knew how it could get there.

Wilson envisioned a steady stream of foreigners coming to America every year, reinvigorating the energy and vitality the nation needed if it were to survive, much less thrive. Which is why Wilson, who moved to the colonies from Scotland at 22, argued against barriers on immigration that would “deprive the government of the talents, virtue and abilities of such foreigners as might chose to remove to this country.”

What Wilson had in mind, then, is something such as the U.S. national soccer team, which gathered to train Saturday morning, on the country’s 250th birthday.

Six of the 26 players on the team, which will face Belgium in a World Cup elimination game Monday, are foreign-born. Five others were born to immigrant parents and two others have immigrant grandparents or great-grandparents. Nearly half have dual nationality.

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino jumps into the arms of his players after their World Cup win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12.

(Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Yet they all play with the U.S. flag stitched over their hearts. What could be more American than that?

“It is special,” U.S. captain Tim Ream said of having the team together on Independence Day. “Obviously, doubly special because it’s during a World Cup and triple special because it’s here in the U.S. “As a group, with all our different backgrounds, it’s a true representation of what America is. It’s a melting pot of, of people, of personalities, of characters.”

And it’s led by a country-music-listening Argentine coach, Mauricio Pochettino, who first learned to throw a baseball last week so he could perform first-pitch duties at a Seattle Mariners’ game. (He threw a strike.)

“That sort of stuff can only happen in America,” said striker Folarin Balogun, who grew up in England with Nigerian parents but plays for the U.S. because he was born in Brooklyn, qualifying for birthright citizenship through the 14th Amendment to the constitution Wilson helped write.

It would be hard for the U.S. soccer team to more closely resemble the architects who founded the country, nor the vision those architects had for their creation.

Eight the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence and eight of the 55 framers of the Constitution were immigrants. That’s about the same percentage of immigrants on this summer’s World Cup roster. Another 20 of the Founding Fathers were the sons of immigrants; again, the same percentage as the national team.

“That is the U.S. experience of taking different people from all over the world, the immigrant experience, and mixing it into something that the world has never seen,” said Adam Sawyer, a co-founder of Relevant Research, a Baltimore firm which provides support to immigration researchers and organizations.

“One in seven Americans was foreign-born. Our soccer team is like one in four. I always think of soccer [as] leading society and it’s pulling us with it,” continued Sawyer, who recently published an analysis of the role global migration has played on World Cup success. “Our sporting teams push us forward towards further integration.”

The signers of the Declaration of Independence never foresaw a World Cup, much less an American World Cup team. But they did see immigration as such a fundamental strength, they used America’s founding document to condemn King George III for endeavoring “to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners.”

Without that naturalization, Christian Pulisic might not be playing for the U.S.; in fact, he might not even be in the U.S. His paternal grandfather Mate immigrated from the former Yugoslavia in search of opportunity and was later naturalized as a U.S. citizen. The paternal ancestors of goalkeeper Matt Turner became naturalized citizens after fleeing to the U.S. to escape religious persecution in Lithuania and midfielder Cristian Roldan’s parents escaped civil wars in El Salvador and Guatemala, then gained permanent residency through President Reagan’s amnesty program.

“This soccer team is reflecting America at its best,” said Faisal Al-Juburi, co-chief executive of RAICES, a Texas-based humanitarian aid and immigration services nonprofit. “Its global roots, its shared purpose, its one jersey.”

Soccer in the U.S. has long been an immigrant sport. In the years after World War II, when soccer was still an amateur and semi-pro game, the best teams in the country had names such as the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals, New York German-Hungarian SC and the Los Angeles Danes. Joe Gaetjens, one of the country’s first stars and the man who scored the goal that beat England in the 1950 World Cup, was a Haitian immigrant.

In recent years, however, the national team has begun recruiting dual-nationals from overseas, among them World Cup midfielder Malik Tillman, who was born to a U.S. serviceman in Germany, and Antonee Robinson, who was born in England to a naturalized U.S. citizen father, and Sergiño Dest, a Dutch native whose father is Surinamese American.

“It is definitely a team that embraces their diverse backgrounds, and that’s quite meaningful, especially now,” said Al-Juburi, the son of Iraqi immigrants. “This notion that we are stronger with impenetrable walls that divide us is definitely not reflected in this team. It credits a lot of its success to its immigrant roots.

“And I think that’s incredibly powerful to see that and to see a nation cheering and getting behind that diversity. It is a reminder that we are stronger from that coexistence.”

But Al-Juburi doesn’t see the result as a melting pot, which burns away the unique flavors and characteristics of each ingredient. For him, it’s more a gumbo in which every ingredient changes and improves the mix.

U.S. players huddle seconds before playing Bosnia-Herzegovina during a World Cup knockout round match at Levi’s Stadium on Wednesday.

(Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

“You’re looking at lineage from Nigeria, from Guatemala, from El Salvador, from Mexico, from Liberia, Jamaica, Croatia,” he said. “All these disparate ingredients work together so beautifully and in such a balanced way.”

And when that team succeeds, as the U.S. has this summer, it not only underscores the wisdom of the Founding Fathers, but it offers a lesson for today as well.

“This team contains a different picture of inclusion really mattering, just by being exactly who they are,” said Jules Boykoff, a political science professor at the University of Portland (Ore.) and a former U.S. youth international. “They don’t have to say anything. They just have to be who they are and do their best on the pitch.”

Egypt and Morocco fans celebrated their World Cup success by singing ‘My Blood is Palestinian’ at a Dallas fan zone, in a show of Arab solidarity with Palestinians.

It will come just before the summer holidays

Jet2 is set to make a key announcement on Wednesday.

Shareholders in what is one of Britain’s largest package holiday operators will be eagerly awaiting news on whether US-Iran peace negotiations have helped boost travel demand and stabilise jet fuel supplies as the summer booking season gets under way. Jet2 is set to unveil its full-year financial results on Wednesday, following a turbulent period for the travel sector.

The airline and package holiday giant informed investors it was anticipating an operating profit of between £435 million and £440 million for the year ending March. Passenger bookings for the summer were up in April compared with the same period last year, across both package holidays and flights, fuelling hopes of a bumper season ahead.

Jet2 disclosed that holidaymakers were increasingly leaving it later to book their trips, suggesting that anxiety surrounding the Middle East conflict was pushing travellers towards last-minute decisions.

AJ Bell analysts Russ Mould and Dan Coatsworth said shareholders will be keen to learn how travel demand has held up since US President Donald Trump announced he had struck a peace deal with Iran last month.

“Jet2’s commentary on current trading will be much more important than its full-year numbers to March 31,” they said. “Reports suggest holiday companies have enjoyed a strong bounce in trading since Donald Trump said a peace deal had been agreed with Iran.

“We’ve already seen oil prices return to pre-Iran war levels and there are reports from various holiday companies of a surge in bookings to Cyprus and Turkey.”

Jet2 offers holidays to both destinations and throughout the Mediterranean. The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which had severely restricted shipping since the outbreak of the Iran war, resulted in a drop in the global supply of jet fuel, prompting some airlines to scale back their summer travel schedules.

However, Jet2 moved to reassure holidaymakers in May that its flight schedule would run as normal throughout the summer, and pledged not to impose surcharges on any pre-booked trips to offset the increased costs.

In addition, the company launched its first flights from a brand new base at London Gatwick airport earlier this year, which it hopes will unlock bookings from an extra 15 million potential customers.

FORGET garden centres, DIY jobs and lazy weekends at home – a growing number of Brits are flying to European cities for just a few hours before heading home the very same day.

Called “extreme day tripping,” the new trend is thanks to cheap return flights costing less than a meal out.

These adventurous travellers manage to squeeze in croissants in Paris, canal cruises in Amsterdam and pizza in Milan without booking a hotel room.

Lisa Houston, from Edinburgh, caught the extreme day trip bug after taking her son to Paris in January.

“My son had recently split up from his girlfriend and I wanted to give him something completely different to look forward to,” she said.

“He hadn’t been abroad since he was seven, so I surprised him with a day trip to Paris.

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“We saw Les Invalides: Napoleon’s Tomb, sailed down the Seine, ate croissants in a little Parisian cafe and stood gazing at the Eiffel Tower. He absolutely loved it.”

The pair flew out at 7am and returned home the same evening.

“The flights were about £100 each, but you can often get them much cheaper,” Lisa said. “It was enough time to enjoy the city without feeling rushed.”

The trip sparked a love for Lisa and has since ticked off Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Milan and Dublin, with Barcelona, Paris and Poland still to come later this year.

One of her biggest bargains was Copenhagen, where she managed to secure return flights for just £34.

After spotting photos of the colourful waterfront district of Nyhavn on Instagram, Lisa booked the trip and spent the day exploring the Danish capital.

“By lunchtime I was sitting outside a cafe with Nyhavn behind me,” she said.

Despite the early starts – often leaving home before 3am to catch the first flight – Lisa insists it’s worth every minute.

“I treat the whole day as the adventure, not just being in the destination,” she said.

Like other Extreme Day Trippers, Lisa gets some inspiration from a Facebook Group of like-minded people but said the appeal fitting in holidays around busy schedules.

“I’ve got a busy job, a granddaughter living with me, elderly parents and caring responsibilities,” she said.

“Sometimes I just need a day that’s all about me. Telling people that I’m ‘off to Paris to have lunch’ is my vibe these days.”

She estimates most of her trips cost around £150 in total, including flights, food and attractions.

“I think it’s brilliant value for money – in a couple of hours you’re somewhere you’ve never been before, seeing things you’ve only dreamed of. That’s priceless.”

Another Extreme Day Tripper is Emily Benham from Essex, who recently flew to Pisa with her daughter for the day.

“We left home at 4am and arrived in Pisa at 11am,” she said.

“Our flights were £125 each – I would have preferred them to be £75 or under as I think part of the fun is keeping it as cheap as possible but my daughter chose the destination and it was worth it.”

“A highlight was seeing the Leaning Tower for the first time. It was breath-taking.”

The pair spent eight hours exploring the city, visiting the cathedral, eating pizza and wandering the back streets before heading home that evening.

“It was my first extreme day trip and I’ve already booked another one to Frankfurt with my brother and sister,” she said.

For Cassie Goodfellow, from Bathgate, an extreme day trip was the perfect way to celebrate turning 40.

After spotting inspiration online, she booked a return flight to Copenhagen and spent 12 hours exploring the city solo.

“Most people thought I was a bit crazy,” she admitted.

“They couldn’t understand why I’d travel abroad for just a day or the fact I was doing it solo, But the memories and experience made it worthwhile.”

Flights cost just £63 return, while her total spend for the day came to around £160.

“The highlight was wandering Copenhagen’s beautiful streets and landmarks,” she said.

“I was surprised by how much I managed to fit into one day.”

Looking back, she says it was one of the best things she has ever done.

“There’s something exciting about proving you can have a meaningful travel experience in a single day,” she said.

“I’m already thinking about where to go next.”

YOU don’t need to board a flight for massive waterparks, thrilling rollercoasters and sunset open-air movie nights.

The UK is home to some incredible mega resorts that pack in all the entertainment your family could want.

And the best part is that you can book them with Hols from £9.50.

Hundreds of new £9.50 holidays are set to land over at club950.co.uk this July.

To be among the first to access them, make sure to sign up to Sun Club.

While those collecting codes in the paper can access the hols from July 8, Sun Club members can log on a whole day early on July 7.

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Being able to book an entire day early can make all the difference, as popular parks and dates send to sell out fast. Sign up to Sun Club for £1.99 a month, and you’l be ahead of the booking crowds.

We’ve rounded up some of the biggest and best UK holiday parks with new dates dropping with the July £9.50 Hols top-up.

These include the UK’s biggest holiday park, and a popular beachfront resort with its own on-site theme park and waterpark.

Here’s our selection of the mega UK holiday parks you can book with Hols from £9.50 this July.

Unity Beach, Brean

Unity Beach in Somerset is a huge award-winning resort with plenty to do for families, plus you’re just steps away from the seven mile stretch of beach at Brean Sands.

This park boasts its own theme park, Brean Theme Park, which the largest in the South West. It has over 40 attractions, including outdoor rollercoasters, classic dodgems and a log flume.

The park also has its own waterpark, Unity Splash, which is reopening this summer with new upgrades. There’s both an indoor and outdoor splash zone, with waterslides and rubber ring rides.

And if that’s not enough, there’s axe throwing, crossbow shooting, a trampoline park, indoor soft play and a nine hole golf course.

Billing Aquadrome, Northampton

Spread across 235 acres of parkland and lakes, Billing Aquadrome in Northamptonshire is a massive playground for family entertainment.

This newly-upgraded site is packed with unique activities, from a BMX pump track and alpaca feeding to paddleboard hire and its very own miniature railway.

The park puts on plenty of outdoor entertainment like silent discos and outdoor cinema shows, plus you can grab a bite at the on-site burger joint or dessert shop.

Then end your nights by retreating back to a cosy lakeside pod right on the water.

Golden Sands, Rhyl

Golden Sands Holiday Park in the traditional seaside town of Rhyl is the ideal base to explore North Wales.

This park puts you within short driving distance of legendary castles such as Gwyrch and Bodelwyddan, plus there’s beautiful nature spots like Dyserth Waterfall on your doorstep.

When you aren’t out exploring, on-site there’s a heated indoor pool, arcades, a sports court, plus a soft play area.

Plus there’s plenty of activities that kids will love such as slime workshops and NERF gun battles.

Grab some dinner from the site’s traditional fish and chip shop before settling down to watch the live entertainment kick off in the evening.

Trecco Bay, Porthcawl

As one of Europe’s largest holiday parks, and the biggest in the UK, it’s no surprise that there’s no shortage of things to do at Trecco Bay.

Explore the sprawling pool with aqua jets that help you twist and turn under the water, or hop in an aqua paddler mini boat or inflatable jet ski and take in the views from up top.

Back on dry land there’s bumper zorbing and an outdoor battlefield for NERF guns, plus pirate-themed golf and a Make a Bear zone where kids can create their own cuddly friend to take home.

When it comes to food and drink, you can pick from well known eateries like Papa Johns pizza, Burger King, Thunderbird Fried Chicken and sip on Costa Coffee.

Plus the town of Porthcawl is right on your doorstep, with multiple Blue Flag beaches, a scenic promenade to stroll and a funfair to enjoy.

Lighthouse Leisure, Dumfries

Just a stone’s throw away from the local beach and its landmark lighthouse, Lighthouse Leisure is a coastal, family-run park with a warm and friendly feel.

Entertainment here offers all the holiday park classics from kids evening discos to bingo, karaoke and race nights.

The site also has a heated indoor pool perfect for rainy days, plus an outdoor adventure playground that kids love to climb.

From here it’s a 28 minute drive to Dumfries, where you can take the kids to meet the animals at Dalscone Farm Fun or explore the massive ruins of Caerlaverock Castle.

HUNDREDS of new £9.50 holidays are set to land this July – including popular holiday parks with previously sold-out dates.

Over at club950.co.uk, Sun readers will soon be able to bag themselves a bargain break at a range of holiday parks across the UK and Europe.

Ahead of the new drop of holidays, our Hols from £9.50 Agony Aunt Tracy Kennedy is here to answer your questions.

Tracy Kennedy has been taking £9.50 holidays for 30 years, and has tried and tested holiday parks everywhere from the Isle of Wight to Wales, and nearly 300,000 follow her advice online about taking The Sun’s budget breaks.

This week, she is answering everything from how to actually book yourself a £9.50 holiday, to the most peaceful holiday parks with walking trails.

You can ask Tracy your own question by filling out the form. As we release each Q&A with Tracy, one lucky reader will be picked to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

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This week’s winner of a £100 Amazon voucher is Charlotte Varns. Congratulations, Charlotte!

https://thesun.formstack.com/forms/js.php/travel_agony_aunt_2026Online Form – 9.50 Hols Agony Aunt – 2026

Are there any more ways to get a £9.50 holiday this year?

Skye Sinclair

Yes, there is! There is another lot of £9.50 holidays coming in July.

Sun Club members can book from one minute past midnight on July 7, and people collecting codes will be able to book from Wednesday July 8.

If you’ve never done a £9.50 holiday before, there are a few different ways to do it.

You can collect the codes that will appear in the newspaper each day, or join Sun Club (£1.99 per month) and book without having to buy the paper and collect the codes.

Before all of this, make sure to go and have a look on the £9.50 holiday website to see which parks are available that you’d like to go to.

The holidays start from £9.50 per person, and yes you can really book them for that cheap.

Then it’s up to you if you want to upgrade your accommodation or add on any passes.

So your cheapest holiday for a family of four would be £38 – I have never found a holiday online any cheaper than that!

Do you have regular go to easy meals that you like to make when you go on holiday in a caravan?

Emma Bush

I cook quite a lot when I go away on holiday, and if I’m going to be cooking, it’s got to be quick and easy.

No roast dinners or fancy meals here – some people in my group do that in their caravans, and I think it’s great!

But for me I always bring cupboard foods like pasta and sauces, so that I always have something quick and easy to cook.

Another one of my favourites is hot dogs. They take just minutes to make and will cost you far less than any of the fancy, expensive ones they sell on-site.

Most caravans will come with a fully-equipped kitchen with microwaves, hobs and a full oven, so you might as well make use of them and save yourself some money.

Another one of my favourite quick and easy meals to make is grabbing a hot rotisserie chicken from the supermarket and serving it with some potatoes and salad.

It’s very simple and you can do so much with the leftovers.

Which holiday parks are ideal for the elderly? Something quiet with some nice dog walks?

Charlotte Varns

My top tip for finding a quiet park is to go on holiday during school term time.

That way the parks will be much quieter, and you’ll often get a better deal outside of the school holidays, too.

In terms of specific parks, a few come to mind. North Wales is lovely and has some beautiful walks, so I’d recommend a few of the parks there.

Lyons Robin Hood is a relaxing holiday park with direct beach access.

Ty Mawr, Lyons Lido Beach and Golden Sands Rhyl are other options which all have beautiful coastal walks nearby.

Outside of Wales, I think Cherry Tree in Norfolk is a lovely option. Norfolk is very flat, so you can get out for walks and it won’t be too challenging.

Are the entertainment passes included, or do you buy them additionally?

Jonathan Smith

Usually the entertainment passes are additional add-ons.

But my secret tip would be to check online first, as there are actually some £9.50 parks that will include your entertainment passes in the price on certain dates.

Park Holidays Pakefield offers club room passes for free for all dates. Park Holidays Sand Le Mere also offers the same.

Make sure to research this ahead of time, as lots of other parks will also offer free passes for specific dates.

What are your recommendations for the most accessible sites?

Tracey Layton

Firstly, always make sure to call your holiday park and let them know that you will need an accessible caravan.

Lower Hyde in Shanklin is a great option, and if you’d like to go out and visit the beach there’s even a lift that takes you down to the seafront.

Plus to get to the beach lift from Lower Hyde, the ground is completely flat.

I’d also recommend Camber Sands holiday park. It’s a beautiful site that is also very flat, and you’ll have the beach right on your doorstep.

Some places across the UK have also started offering beach wheelchairs for hire.

If you’re wanting to visit a beachfront holiday park, I’d recommend looking up if the local beaches offer this.

QUEEN of the Sun £9.50 holiday, Tracy Kennedy, is back to answer your burning questions on all things budget breaks

Tracy has been taking £9.50 holidays for 30 years, and even runs a Facebook group dedicated to helping people book their Sun holidays.

Now she’s here to answer all things Hols from £9.50, from how to get a good deal during the school holidays to the items she can never leave without packing.

https://thesun.formstack.com/forms/js.php/travel_agony_aunt_2026Online Form – 9.50 Hols Agony Aunt – 2026

You can leave a question for Tracy by filling out the form above, and with each Q&A with Tracy we will pick one lucky reader to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

This week’s winner of a £100 Amazon voucher is Stephanie Marriott. Congratulations, Stephanie!

Are there any 9.50 holidays left to book?

Kelly Noble

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Yes! The next top up is coming on July 7 for Sun Club members, and July 8 for people collecting codes.

The first lot of £9.50 holidays come out in January, but there are many promotions throughout the year. The cheapest holidays do tend to go quick, but don’t let that put you off.

My secret tip is that some people book and then they choose to upgrade, so those cheaper dates that were once sold out come back and are then released again.

And if you are signed up to Sun Club, you’ll get first pick of the holidays during each top-up.

Always keep an eye out for the top-up promotions and check the website regularly.

How do I get a good deal during the school holidays?

Fiona Curry

If you have specific dates in mind, I always recommend being up and waiting for the moment when the £9.50 holidays are released.

Sun Club get to book first, so I’d recommend joining so you get first access. It’s only £1.99 a month, and we all stay up for when access opens to Sun Club members at midnight.

That way you get to book your holiday before the final codes drop.

Firstly, research the parks you’d like to go to, and have all the parks and dates you’d ideally want written down in front of you.

Just in case they don’t come up, I suggest having some alternatives that you wouldn’t mind going to.

Not every park has availability during the school summer holidays, but quite a few of them do.

There is also quite a lot of availability in other school holiday periods, like October half term, which can be a lovely time to go with lots of themed activities.

Seal Bay and Golden Coast are two family-friendly parks that have offered dates in the school summer holidays – and you’re not going to find a holiday at popular parks like that for a cheaper price anywhere else.

What is your essential packing item? Not the obvious (food, clothes, towels) but a little something that makes the trip so much easier?

Lorraine Cooper

Every time I go away, I take an essentials box with me. My mum used to always bring one on trips when I was little, and now I do the same.

It’s basically a box packed with all your essential bits, like washing up liquid and sponges. I even take those little travel-sized bottles and siphon off any cleaning products or toiletries into them.

We also bring tins, pasta, spices, non-perishable foods like that. The kind of bits you’d reach for in your cupboard at home, that might not be there in your caravan.

Bringing those sorts of bits with you will save you spending an extortionate amount at the on-site shop. Then you only need to buy any fresh food once you’re there.

Also, always pack a tin opener and potato peeler, just in case!

What are the best parks for a longer (seven day) trip?

Sharath Reddy

For a longer trip, you’ll want a holiday park with loads to do on-site so that there’s enough to keep you busy for a whole week.

For this I’d recommend Seal Bay in Selsey, which is in West Sussex. It’s definitely got enough to keep you busy.

On site it feels like one big party park. Seal Bay has its own fairground and it’s right on the beach, so definitely have a beach day. There’s even a bar which is practically on the beach.

It’s also got a lovely big pool with lots of water activities, so you could also have a pool day. It’s also got a Wave Rider surfing machine.

Then when you want to explore off-site you’ve got Bognor Regis, Chichester and Littlehampton all nearby.

You could easily spend a full day in Chichester. It’s a town with a great big cathedral and lots of artsy and historical things to do, with museums and galleries.

In Littlehampton you’ve got beaches and Harbour Park with rollercoasters, and it also has a miniature railway.

Then of course you’ve got Bognor Regis, which is a fantastic British seaside town. It’s got a beautiful seafront, a small traditional pier, and all the classics like hot doughnuts and fish and chip shops by the sea.

You could even buy a day pass to Butlins if you wanted. So you can bag a cheap stay with £9.50 holidays, then buy a Butlins day pass to go over and do all their daytime activities and visit the fairground.

What would you suggest to make a £9.50 holiday a bit more manageable for SEN families?

Stephanie Marriott

I actually get this question a lot in my Facebook group, and it’s a very important one.

Depending on how old your children are, if you can go away outside of the school holidays, then do. The parks tend to be a lot quieter which can be helpful.

But if that isn’t doable, you can always ring the site and ask if they have any special hours for kids with extra needs. Quite a lot of them offer a quiet hour at the pool, for example.

I’d also recommend having a look at the activities and entertainment program ahead of time to see what you would like to spend each day doing.

There are usually things like arts and crafts and indoor activities which might be a bit quieter than the full-on evening entertainment.

SUN Hols from £9.50 are back!

Hundreds of new Hols from £9.50 are being released across holiday parks in the UK and Europe this July.

To be among the first to bag your holiday for under a tenner, make sure to sign up to Sun Club.

While Sun readers collecting codes can access hundreds of new hols from July 8, Sun Club subscribers can bag the best deals a whole day early on July 7.

This gives Sun Club members priority in booking their desired dates and places at popular parks that might soon sell out.

To help you pick a park, our Queen of £9.50 Holidays Tracy Kennedy is here to share some of her favourite spots.

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She’s picked her top holiday parks in beautifully British seaside towns with beachfront sports bars, waterslides and more.

Here’s Tracy’s guide to her favourite British seaside towns, and their holiday parks where you can stay from £9.50.

Lower Hyde, Shanklin, Isle of Wight

Tracy said: “The best holiday park I’ve ever been to is Lower Hyde on the Isle of Wight – that is my firm favourite. I’ve returned several times because my family and I really liked it.

“There’s loads to do on site itself, it’s actually one of the only sites where we didn’t mind spending the entire day there. There’s plenty of nature trails around the park, and there’s also an adventure park on site.

“The entertainment teams are top-quality at Lower Hyde and plenty is free compared to other parks.

“In the evenings, the entertainment starts off with discos and character meet and greets for the younger kids, with their own show. Then there’s some great bingo, followed by an adult game show.

“Later in the evening there’s more acts from visiting acts such as comedians or magicians, or a performance from the entertainment team.

“There’s then a disco until midnight, so you can stay there all night, if you fancy it.

“Lower Hyde also have a restaurant with really good pub-style food called The Barnhouse, plus they also have little food huts such as the Thunderbird Chicken shack and an ice cream parlour.

“The must-visit spot nearby is Shanklin. There’s lots of little artisan shops, and it’s not a far walk, about a 10-minute walk into the centre.

“If you walk further, it takes you into Shanklin Old Village. There’s a lovely little restaurant there called The Crab, with beautiful seafood.

“There is also the famous old thatched cottage from all the postcards. Not only is it lovely to look at, but it does afternoon tea inside (from £7.95).

Parkdean Resorts Newquay, Cornwall

Tracy said: “When I first arrived at Newquay Holiday Park I was totally flabbergasted. We stayed four days, and I don’t think it was long enough!

“The park has three outdoor pools which are perfect for hot days, and cracking evening entertainment.

“There’s also a 200ft-long waterslide and mini golf and amusements, which are perfect for a summer holiday.

“When you want to go out and explore Newquay itself, you’re only 10 minutes away by bus or car, and there’s buses right outside the park.

“Newquay is just beautiful. There’s 11 beaches there and they’re all gorgeous.

“There’s a traditional seaside promenade by Towan Beach too with seaside treats like candy floss and hot doughnuts.

“It’s great for families as there’s lots of cafes and places to sit down, an Asda if you need to pick up any last-minute bits, and the seafront here actually has proper toilets!

“We visited all the local beaches and walked past the hotel where the Roald Dahl film The Witches was made: The Headland.

“We also drove out to Port Isaac, and walked around where Doc Martin was filmed. All you have to do in these places is pay for is parking and bring your own food.

“Then you can just walk around and see all of these really cool filming locations, and that costs you nothing!”

Lyons Robin Hood, Rhyl, North Wales

Tracy said: “This site is really up-to-date. It’s recently undergone a £1.5m makeover, with all the new developments ready for this summer.

“Some of my favourite things about this park are the enthusiastic entertainment staff, as well as the food.

“The pool here is so good that my youngest went swimming every single day. It has a brand-new splash zone, three super slides and even a spa for the adults.

“It’s just had activities like go-karting added to the list of things to do, and there’s new sports courts and trampolines.

“I last went at Halloween and it was just absolutely fantastic, but the entertainment is great year-round too. The costume characters come out to meet the kids after shows.

“I’ve stayed in three levels of accommodation here, and I liked all of them. Each caravan was clean and spacious, with multiple big bedrooms, so you can’t go wrong here no matter what your budget is.

“I’d recommend going for the highest-ranking caravan option if you can, which is a platinum. We’ve stayed in platinum and it’s lovely. We had a little bit of a balcony that we had our coffee and drinks on.

“I usually like to bring my own food to save money, however the food here is just lovely and definitely worth the money.

“We had cod and chips (£6.95) from the on-site chip shop here and really enjoyed it – in fact, we had it twice because it was that good.

“There’s a beautiful beach just across the road from the park. You might even see some seals – we saw some on my last visit and I was so excited.

“Rhyl is just 5 minutes away, and there’s loads to do there. Shops, a massive marine lake, and my favourite – a miniature train that takes you around the town (£4 per adult £3 per child).

“A trip into Rhyl could even be a free day out if you planned for it. Pack a picnic, wander through its streets, plus there’s even a free attraction: Rhyl Museum and Arts Centre.

Seal Bay, West Sussex

Tracy said: “Seal Bay is a very popular holiday park, and for good reason.

“The site feels like one big party park. It’s got its own fairground on-site, and it’s directly on the beach.

“There’s a free bus that picks you up and takes you where you want all around the park – which is especially great if you’re not so mobile.

“The entertainment here is spectacular. It’s not just your standard holiday park shows, there’s aerial performances, fire eaters and all sorts.

“They’ve got a great sports bar too, and its right on the beach. So you don’t even have to leave site if you don’t want to.

“Plus there’s a lovely outdoor seating area where you can have Greek gyros, burritos and ice cream. My teenager loves her takeaways!

“If you do want to get off-site and explore, you can go to Bognor Regis for the day.

“Bognor is a truly Great British seaside town. It’s got a beautiful seafront, a small traditional pier, and all the classics like hot doughnuts and fish and chip shops by the sea.

“You could easily spend a full day in Chichester, too.

“It’s a historical town with a great big cathedral and lots of interesting things to do, like museums and galleries.”

“Seal Bay is also one of the parks that offers dates during the school holidays with Hols from £9.50 – and you’re not going to get a holiday there any cheaper if you book direct.

“So if you’ve been wanting to visit a popular site like this one, it’s definitely worth doing it through £9.50 Holidays.