Drew Brees is in at Fox Sports.

Mark Sanchez is out.

The network announced Friday that Brees, the MVP of Super Bowl XLIV, has been hired as an NFL game analyst. He will join play-by-play announcer Adam Amin in the booth starting Nov. 16.

Amin had previously been paired with Sanchez, who is facing a felony battery charge after a physical altercation with a 69-year-old truck driver in Indianapolis last month. Sanchez, who was stabbed in the abdomen during the incident, has not been on the air since then, and a Fox Sports spokesperson told The Times on Friday that he “is no longer with the network.”

“There will be no further comment at this time,” the spokesperson added.

Sanchez has been charged with a level five felony of battery involving serious bodily injury as well as two misdemeanors — unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle and public intoxication — after an Oct. 4 scuffle with Indiana resident Perry Tole.

Sanchez was in Indianapolis that weekend to cover the Colts’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders. According to a probable cause affidavit filed by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Sanchez threw Tole toward a wall and also onto the ground during the altercation, while Tole sprayed Sanchez with pepper spray and eventually stabbed him.

Tole spent two days in the hospital after suffering a deep laceration on his left cheek that his attorney said affected his ability to speak. On Oct. 6, Tole filed a civil lawsuit against Sanchez, alleging he had suffered “severe permanent disfigurement, loss of function, other physical injuries, emotional distress, and other damages” as a result of the 38-year-old former NFL player’s actions.

Fox Corp. was named as a co-defendant in the case.

Sanchez remained in the hospital for a week after the incident. He was excused from attending an Oct. 22 pre-trial conference for his criminal case, as his attorney said he was still recovering from his injuries. The trial is set to begin Dec. 11.

With Brees, Fox has replaced Sanchez with one of the NFL’s all-time greats at quarterback. Brees played for the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints during his 20 years in the NFL and is second behind Tom Brady in many of the league’s passing records, including touchdowns and yards. In his first year of eligibility, he is among the 52 modern-era players under consideration for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.

“Drew is one of the best to ever play the game, and we couldn’t be more excited to have his prolific credentials and unique insights as part of our coverage on Sundays,” Brad Zager, president of Production and Operations at Fox Sports, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Fox Sports family.”

Upon retiring in 2020, Brees called games on NBC for one season. More recently, he has appeared on in-studio shows on various networks and is slated to be part of Netflix’s coverage of Christmas Day games for the second year.

“I appreciate the opportunity Fox has given me in the booth and with their team,” Brees said in a statement. “I hope my passion for this game is reflected in the knowledge and insights I provide to the fans each Sunday.”

WASHINGTON — President Trump said on Friday he’s considering granting Hungary an exemption from U.S. sanctions on Russian energy as he sat down with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán at the White House. “We’re looking at it because its very difficult for him to get the oil and gas from other areas,” Trump said.

Orbán said it’s a “vital” issue for his landlocked country, and said he planned to discuss with Trump the “consequences for the Hungarian people” if the sanctions took effect.

In comments on Friday, Orbán said he would present Trump with several “suggestions” for implementing an exemption.

“I’m not asking for some kind of gift from the Americans or some kind of unusual thing. I am simply asking for the realization that the sanctions recently imposed on Russian energy puts certain countries like Hungary, which do not have access to the sea, in an impossible situation,” Orbán said on state radio. “I’m going to ask the president to acknowledge that.”

A large delegation of cabinet members, business leaders and numerous right-wing political influencers with close connections to Hungary’s government accompanied Orbán to Washington. The delegation rented a 220-passenger commercial jet from Hungarian carrier Wizz Air for the journey.

Prior to Orbán’s arrival on Thursday, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced a resolution calling on Hungary to end its dependence on Russian energy.

The resolution was co-signed by 10 senators including Republicans Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Chuck Grassley of Iowa, as well as Democrats Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Chris Coons of Delaware. It “expresses concern that Hungary has shown no sign of reducing its dependence on Russian fossil fuels,” and urges Budapest to adhere to a European Union plan to cease all Russian energy imports into the bloc by the end of 2027.

“Europe has made extraordinary progress cutting its energy ties with Moscow, but Hungary’s actions continue to undermine collective security and embolden the Kremlin,” Shaheen wrote in a statement. The resolution, she continued, “sends a clear message that when it comes to buying Russian energy, all allies should be held to the same standard, and that includes Hungary.”

On Friday, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said in Washington that he will sign a bilateral nuclear energy cooperation agreement with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to Hungarian state news agency MTI.

The deal will involve Hungary’s first-ever purchases of American nuclear fuel, which it currently buys from Russia, and introduce U.S. technology for the on-site storage of spent fuel at Hungary’s Paks nuclear plant. The agreement will also include cooperation on small modular reactors.

After arriving in Washington, Orbán and some of his top officials met with Eduardo Bolsonaro, the son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who in September was sentenced to 27 years in prison for plotting a coup after an election loss. Orbán posted on social media: “We stand firmly with the Bolsonaros in these challenging times — friends and allies who never give up. Keep fighting: political witch-hunts have no place in democracy, truth and justice must prevail!”

Megerian and Spike write for the Associated Press. Spike reported from Budapest

Hamilton also faces an investigation for failing to slow sufficiently for the yellow flags waved when Leclerc lost control.

Norris topped all three sessions in sprint qualifying and had a comfortable advantage over Piastri throughout.

He said: “It was a little bit tougher than I would have liked. But we did the job we needed to do, which was to be fastest today.

“Qualifying is always one of the best things here. It’s difficulty, it’s bumpy, it’s tricky, always a joy, always puts a smile on your face.

“But a long weekend, another qualifying and another couple of races to go but a good start.”

Rain is forecast for Saturday morning in Sao Paulo, when the sprint race is due to start at 14:00 GMT. Qualifying for the grand prix is at 18:00.

Norris’ result is the best possible start to the weekend and gives him the opportunity to build his championship lead – eight points are awarded to the winner of the sprint, seven for second and so on down to eighth place.

Antonelli impressed in second, his best time set on his first lap, while the surprise package of qualifying was Alonso, who set the fastest time in the second session and was just 0.253secs off pole in his midfield car in the final shootout.

His team-mate Lance Stroll was seventh fastest, ahead of Leclerc, Racing Bulls’ Iscak Hadjar and Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg.

Afghan official says four Afghan civilians were killed and five others wounded in border clashes.

Talks in Istanbul between Pakistan and Afghanistan are at a deadlock, Islamabad said, a day after both sides accused each other of mounting border clashes that risked breaching a ceasefire brokered by Qatar.

The update on the talks by Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Friday came after an Afghan official said four Afghan civilians were killed and five others wounded in clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces along their shared border despite the joint negotiations.

There was no immediate comment from Kabul about the Pakistani claim.

In a statement thanking Turkiye and Qatar for mediating the talks, Tarar maintained that the Afghan Taliban has failed to meet pledges it made with the international community about curbing “terrorism” under a 2021 Doha peace accord.

Tarar said that Pakistan “will not support any steps by the Taliban government that are not in the interest of the Afghan people or neighboring countries.” He did not elaborate further, but added that Islamabad continues to seek peace and goodwill for Afghans but will take “all necessary measures” to protect its own people and sovereignty.

Ali Mohammad Haqmal, head of the Information and Culture Department in Spin Boldak, blamed Pakistan for initiating the shooting. However, he said Afghan forces did not respond amid ongoing peace talks between the two sides in Istanbul.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said Afghanistan initiated the shooting.

“Pakistan remains committed to ongoing dialogue and expects reciprocity from Afghan authorities”, Pakistan’s Ministry of Information said.

The ministry said the ceasefire remained intact.

Andrabi said Pakistan’s national security adviser, Asim Malik, is leading the Pakistani delegation in the talks with Afghanistan. The Afghan side is being led by Abdul Haq Wasiq, director of general intelligence, according to Mujahid.

He said that Pakistan had handed over its demands to mediators “with a singular aim to put an end to cross-border terrorism,” and that “mediators are discussing Pakistan’s demands with the Afghan Taliban delegation, point by point.”

Strained ties

Islamabad accuses Kabul of harbouring armed groups, particularly the Pakistan Taliban (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP), which regularly claims deadly attacks in Pakistan. The Afghan Taliban deny sheltering the group.

Many Pakistan Taliban leaders and fighters are believed to have taken refuge in Afghanistan since the Afghan Taliban’s return to power in 2021, further straining ties between the two countries.

Turkiye said at the conclusion of last week’s talks that the parties had agreed to establish a monitoring and verification mechanism to maintain peace and penalise violators.

Fifty civilians were killed and 447 others wounded on the Afghan side of the border during clashes that began on October 9, according to the United Nations. At least five people died in explosions in Kabul that the Taliban government blamed on Pakistan.

The Pakistani army reported 23 of its soldiers were killed and 29 others wounded, without mentioning civilian casualties.

US airlines have begun cancelling flights because of a federal government shutdown. They are required to cut traffic 10 percent by November 14 due to inadequate air traffic controller staffing. Many controllers are working without pay during the shutdown.

The BBC has confirmed the start date for the second series of The Night Manager, as a new trailer has been released for the upcoming series.

After nearly ten years of anticipation, BBC viewers were delighted to discover that a fresh instalment of The Night Manager was being developed.

In 2016, the gripping thriller proved hugely successful as it chronicled former soldier Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) working as a hotel night manager who becomes enlisted by British intelligence operative Angela Burr (Olivia Coleman).

The eagerly-awaited second instalment will resume years following the dramatic conclusion, with audiences witnessing Jonathan as a junior MI6 operative managing a discreet surveillance team in London dubbed ‘The Night Owls’.

This week, the BBC unveiled a thrilling trailer for the upcoming series, confirming it will broadcast on January 1.

The preview reveals Jonathan in his fresh position, whilst a narrator directs him to ‘watch, listen and report’. Yet the voice then sternly warns: “You do not hunt down.”

Cutting to Colombia, the MI6 operative must investigate Teddy Dos Santos (Diego Calva), suspected of trafficking weapons into the nation with British Intelligence assistance, reports the Express.

Adopting a fresh identity, Jonathan becomes deeply entangled in a deadly conspiracy. Betrayal appears imminent as he challenges Agent Burr, declaring she ‘lied’ to him, prompting her reply: “I had no choice!”

A montage of rapid-fire sequences follows, featuring heart-stopping pursuit scenes and Jonathan fleeing through a structure as explosions erupt around him.

In a chilling moment, Jonathan is seen being restrained by Teddy as he questions, ‘Who are you, Matthew?Why are you really here?” While a woman’s voice accuses him of ‘playing her’.

The trailer, shared on social media, sparked an immediate reaction from fans, with many expressing their excitement for the show’s return. One fan exclaimed: “Wow wow wow wow.” Another chimed in: “FINALLY!!!!”

Speaking about the series, Tom Hiddleston told the BBC: “The first series of The Night Manager was one of the most creatively fulfilling projects I have ever worked on. “”The depth, range and complexity of Jonathan Pine was, and remains, a thrilling prospect.

I’m so looking forward to reuniting with Simon and Stephen Cornwell, David Farr and Stephen Garrett, and to working with Georgi Banks-Davies to tell the next chapter of our story. I can’t wait.”

The BBC has also confirmed that The Night Manager will be returning for another series following this upcoming one.

Tune into the new series of The Night Manager from 1 January on BBC iPlayer in the UK, and from 11 January on Prime Video where available.

WASHINGTON — Cornell University has agreed to pay $60 million and accept the Trump administration’s interpretation of civil rights laws in order to restore federal funding and end investigations into the Ivy League school.

Cornell President Michael Kotlikoff announced the agreement on Friday, saying it upholds the university’s academic freedom while restoring more than $250 million in research funding that the government withheld amid investigations into alleged civil rights violations.

The university agreed to pay $30 million directly to the U.S. government along with another $30 million toward research that will support U.S. farmers.

Kotlikoff said the agreement revives the campus’ partnership with the federal government “while affirming the university’s commitment to the principles of academic freedom, independence, and institutional autonomy that, from our founding, have been integral to our excellence.”

The six-page agreement is similar to one signed by the University of Virginia last month. It’s shorter and less prescriptive than others signed by Columbia University and Brown University.

It requires Cornell to comply with the government’s interpretation of civil rights laws on issues involving antisemitism, racial discrimination and transgender issues. A Justice Department memo that orders colleges to abandon diversity, equity and inclusion programs and transgender-friendly policies will be used as a training resource for faculty and staff at Cornell.

The campus must also provide a wealth of admissions data that the government has separately sought from campuses to ensure race is no longer being considered as a factor in admissions decisions. President Trump has suggested some campuses are ignoring a 2023 Supreme Court decision ending affirmative action in admissions.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon called it a “transformative commitment” that puts a focus on “merit, rigor, and truth-seeking.”

“These reforms are a huge win in the fight to restore excellence to American higher education and make our schools the greatest in the world,” McMahon said on X.

Cornell’s president must personally certify compliance with the agreement each quarter. The deal is effective through the end of 2028.

It appears to split the difference on a contentious issue colleges have grappled with as they negotiate an exit from federal scrutiny: payments made directly to the government. Columbia agreed to pay $200 million directly to the government, while Brown University reached an agreement to pay $50 million to state workforce organizations. Virginia’s deal included no payment at all.

Binkley writes for the Associated Press.

Dominic Perfetti is a 6-foot-7 starting basketball player for St. John Bosco. Even more impressive is that he’s one of the top high school lacrosse players in the nation and has committed to Syracuse.

He became interested in lacrosse when a friend gave him a stick when he was 6 years old. He started fooling around with it and has been playing lacrosse ever since. He got so good that top programs on the East Coast reached out. And he’s been playing for a club team, too.

He’s so tall as a defender that it makes him a unique player.

“I might be the tallest lacrosse player in history,” Perfetti joked.

His size, combined with 6-9 Christian Collins and 7-1 Howie Wu, gives St. John Bosco a formidable trio in basketball. If his team is busy in the basketball playoffs, he’ll also try to play lacrosse simultaneously for the Braves.

He’ll gladly demonstrate his shooting ability in lacrosse if anyone presents him with a stick and ball. And he can dunk, too.

This is a daily look at the positive happenings in high school sports. To submit any news, please email [email protected].

Nov. 7 (UPI) — A new survey by the University of Michigan suggested that Americans may be frightened over the economy as the ongoing U.S. government shutdown reverberates with no end in sight.

The survey released Friday showed consumer sentiment at its lowest in three years and near its worst at UM’s second-lowest reading since at least 1978 as the shutdown sent confidence to near-record lows as economic concerns deepen.

“With the federal government shutdown dragging on for over a month, consumers are now expressing worries about potential negative consequences for the economy,” according to survey Director Joanne Hsu.

The University of Michigan’s monthly Index of Consumer Sentiment posted a more than 6% decline to a little over 50% for the month. It was a 30% decline from about a year ago.

“This month’s decline in sentiment was widespread throughout the population, seen across age, income and political affiliation,” Hsu added.

UM’s well-documented survey showed a gradual decline in consumer confidence over the year starting in February in the wake of tax-like tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

“Across the economy, segments of the population are increasingly dealing with tighter financial conditions,” Elizabeth Renter, senior economist at NerdWallet, told CNBC.

Renter said that is “certainly true for federal workers and people dependent on food assistance from the federal government. But it’s also likely increasingly true for middle income Americans.”

WFP says a ‘deepening hunger crisis’ is unfolding and that it may have to pause food aid due to record low funding.

The number of people facing emergency levels of hunger in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has nearly doubled since last year, the United Nations has warned.

The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday a “deepening hunger crisis” was unfolding in the region, but warned it was only able to reach a fraction of those in need due to acute funding shortages and access difficulties.

“We’re at historically low levels of funding. We’ve probably received about $150m this year,” said Cynthia Jones, country director of the WFP for the DRC, pointing to a need for $350m to help people in desperate need in the West African country.

“One in three people in DRC’s eastern provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika are facing crisis levels of hunger or worse. That’s over 10 million people,” Jones said.

“Of that, an alarming three million people are in emergency levels of hunger,” she told a media briefing in Geneva.

She said this higher level meant people were facing extreme gaps in food consumption and very high levels of malnutrition, adding that the numbers of people that are facing emergency levels of hunger is surging.

“It has almost doubled since last year,” said Jones. “People are already dying of hunger.”

Years-long conflict

The area has been rocked by more than a year of fighting. The Rwanda-backed M23 armed group has seized swaths of the eastern DRC since taking up arms again in 2021, compounding a humanitarian crisis and the more than three-decade conflict in the region.

The armed group’s lightning offensive saw it capture the key eastern cities of Goma and Bukavu, near the border with Rwanda. It has set up an administration there parallel to the government in Kinshasa and taken control of nearby mines.

Rwanda has denied supporting the rebels. Both M23 and Congolese forces have been accused of carrying out atrocities.

Jones said the WFP was facing “a complete halt of all emergency food assistance in the eastern provinces” from February or March 2026.

She added that the two airports in the east, Goma and Bukavu, had been shut for months.

WFP wants an air bridge set up between neighbouring Rwanda and the eastern DRC, saying it would be a safer, faster and more effective route than from Kinshasa, on the other side of the vast nation.

In recent years, the WFP had received up to $600m in funding. In 2024, it received about $380m.

UN agencies, including the WFP, have been hit by major cuts in US foreign aid, as well as other major European donors reducing overseas aid budgets to increase defence spending.

GEMMA Collins has raked in a seven-figure sum ahead of her I’m A Celebrity comeback.

The reality star, 44, has gone from strength to strength since rising to fame on The Only Way Is Essex.

According to new accounts from her company, Gemma Collins Limited, she has brought in a near £1 million profit in the year to September 30, 2024.

Meanwhile, earnings show £230,134 in corporation tax is due within a year.

This reveals Gemma has pocketed a £950,000 profit – based on the 2023/24 corporation tax rate -working out at £2,600 per day.

The firm was set up in 2012 and is run by Gemma’s dad Alan, although she is reported in accounts as the “ultimate controlling party”.

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She channels her earnings from TV, various branding and business endeavours into the company.

As well as her performing arts firm, Gemma has also run four other companies.

These were Gemma Collins Boutique, Gemma Collins Clothing, Gems by Gemma and GemmaCollagen.

However, they would ultimately all have mixed fortunes.

Gemma Collins Boutique went into liquidation owing £76,215.

As for Gemma Collins Clothing, it was in the red as per its last accounts.

Elsewhere, Gems By Gemma held £41,505 at its last accounts and GemmaCollagen was set up in 2020 but closed in 2021 without filing accounts.

Other ventures

After over a decade, Gemma is set to make a return to the I’m A Celebrity jungle for the second All Stars series.

In April, The Sun first exclusively revealed bosses were in talks with her for a jungle comeback.

She originally competed in the 2014 series, only to memorably quit after just three days.

A source said at the time: “She hated it first time round but knows it would be TV gold for her fans if she gave it another go.

“The discussions could go either way but signing her would be a huge win for execs.”

The Sun later revealed her in the full line-up – which also includes Gemma’s 2014 campmate Craig Charles.

Continuing in her reality TV roots, she is set to front her own upcoming Sky series titled Gemma Collins: Four Weddings and a Baby.

The Sun revealed this eight-part series will follow Gemma’s life over the course of a year – including domestic moments, glamourous events and her IVF journey.

In September 2024, Gemma revealed the secret side hustle that has made her a millionaire.

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Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Gemma revealed she has been quietly investing in property for the past few years.

This means snapping up properties before flipping them – then renovating and reselling them within a year.

Gemma told The Sun: “I’ve put money into property.

“I don’t worry about my future because I’ve put everything in place -but I’ve done it late in life.

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“I had normal jobs and I’m not sure there were pension schemes then, I am self-employed, so I did it late in life.

“I was 40 when I started to [invest], I wish I had the knowledge that I have now in my 20s.”

A MASSIVE UK train station is set to shut for 9 days for a “once-in-a-lifetime overhaul”.

Network Rail are investing £8million in the upgrade in order to reduce future disruptions on train services.

Manchester Piccadilly train station is set to receive track and signalling upgrades in February next year.

The southern approach to station was built in the 1980s and upgrades to its critical stretch of track has been due for some time.

Network Rail explained that issues with its outdated infrastructure can disrupt all trains running in and out of Manchester.

This amounts to around 400,000 trains into the station every year.

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In a prior warning to passengers, they have advised that no trains from the south and east of the city will run into Manchester Piccadilly.

This will last for nine days over February half term (Saturday 14 – Sunday 22).

Some trains from across the north will also be impacted as well as direct connections to Manchester Airport station.

Services normally running to and from Manchester Piccadilly will terminate at other stations, including Stockport.

Platforms 1-12 will be closed but the concourse will remain open to the public.

There will be a limited service westbound from platforms 13 and 14.

More detailed information about alternate travel plans are to follow in due course.

Julien Dehornoy, Network Rail’s North West & Central deputy regional managing director, said: “We’re investing £7.9m in renewing the Piccadilly corridor, a stretch of track critical to the journeys of around 400,000 trains into Manchester every year.

“This work is going to significantly reduce disruption for the many passengers who regularly use this route.

“Once the job is done, we will have a better, more reliable railway. 

“The major overhaul over six railway lines can only take place during a full railway closure and we are working closely with train operators, TfGM and Manchester City Council on alternative travel plans to keep people on the move.

“The full details on which will be published in mid-November.” 

CHRISTMAS markets are magical places – but one spot feels like the ultimate fairytale with a castle and dancing elves.

Located in the Piemonte Region of Italy, Il Magico Paese di Natale in Asti-Govone, has been named the best fairytale Christmas market in Europe.

Awarded by European Best Destinations, the market runs from November 15 to December 21 in the towns of Asti, Govone and San Damiano d’Asti.

The ranking was formed by asking 12,621 international travellers from 108 countries, with participants deciding on their top ‘fairytale Christmas’ spot from 103 markets across Europe.

Spread across the city of Asti and the towns of Govone and San Damiano d’Asti, Il Magico Paese di Natale – which translates to The Magical Christmas Village – features a number of different events and activities.

Asti

In Asti, the Piazza Alfieri is home to 130 wooden chalets selling crafts and food.

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Lots of the chalets sell local snacks and food, including risotto and regional wines for as little as €12 (£10.56) a bottle.

One popular stall is the Bomboloni (a type of big donut) stand, with different fillings including cream, pistachio and milk and white chocolate.

This is one of the largest markets in Italy and it will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from November 15 to December 21.

Whilst in Asti, there are many places to explore in addition to the market.

For example, you could head to Palazzo Mazzetti, which is home to the Civic Art Gallery with collections and artifacts from multiple eras.

The building also features period furniture and breathtaking painted ceilings.

Admission costs £8.80 per person.

Alternatively, head to the Crypt of Sant’Anastasio, which dates back to the Middle Ages.

The crypt is the remains of the original Romanesque building that once stood on the site and tickets cost £8.80 to enter the crypt.

The city also has a magnificent cathedral, with high ceilings and giant arches.

Govone

Govone is then a 20 minute drive from Asti and features a Royal Castle that becomes a fairytale setting with a Santa’s grotto.

The castle is a former royal residence and today is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inside, the interiors feature detailed frescoes and several Chinese tapestries.

At Christmas, the whole castle is transformed into a festive village, with Santa’s house, an Elf Academy and many musical performances.

There are also 60 stalls with treats, gifts and crafts to explore.

At Santa’s House, families will be taken on a journey of dancing and singing by Santa’s Elves until meeting Santa himself.

The experience lasts around 25 minutes and costs from €5 (£4.40) per person.

Then at the Royal Castle of Govone, visitors will be able to explore historic rooms decked out with festive decorations.

It costs from €5 (£4.40) per person to visit.

After exploring, families can discover how to become one of Santa’s helpers at the Elf School.

The experience costs from €7 (£6.16) per person.

San Damiano d’Asti

San Damiano d’Asti is then a 10 minute drive from Govone and is where visitors will find Living Nativity.

The Living Nativity is a re-enactment of the Nativity, with people in costumes and local traditions also performed.

Often, the re-enactment fills the historic cellars of houses in the town.

Hundreds of actors fill the streets across approximately 30 different settings which recreate the Nativity.

There are also food stalls and music.

Rather uniquely, part of the event includes a coiner minting coins using traditional methods.

The easiest way to reach Asti is by flying to Turin and from there, it is about an hour drive.

Return flights to Turin cost as little as £29 in November and £30 in December.

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A LONG-LOST rail link could soon return as part of a major rail investment that promises new jobs and better connections across the country.

The service, which runs between Swindon and Birmingham, is expected to be reinstated through the £1.75 billion Midlands Rail Hub project.

The project aims to transform journeys across the Midlands, the South West, and South Wales.

The forgotten train line last operated in the early 2000s, more than 20 years ago.

The town and city, which are located around 80 miles from each other, have been without a direct connection ever since.

Swindon, with a population of over 180,000, is the biggest town in Wiltshire, and is located on the edge of the Cotswolds.

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While Birmingham is an important industrial and cultural centre, and the UK’s second-largest city with a population of around 1.2 million.

The proposed plans are on track to deliver up to 130 extra train services each week, which would provide around two million additional passenger seats a year.

Andy Clark, rail programme lead at Midlands Connect, said: “This would be a real boost for passengers.”

The first phase of the scheme is also expected to create nearly 13,000 jobs nationwide.

Swindon North MP Will Stone welcomed the development, saying it would boost the local economy and reconnect communities that have long relied on slower, indirect services.

Currently, there are no direct services between Swindon and Birmingham, meaning passengers must change at Cheltenham, Gloucester, or Reading stations.

The revived route would re-establish a direct connection between the two cities.

Mr Stone said: “It’s fantastic that Swindon could be benefiting from the Midlands Rail hub expansion.

“We’re a town built on connection via the railways, and so it’s great to see Swindon getting an hourly service between a fellow industrial town like Birmingham.”

Once home to the Great Western Railway works, Swindon has a proud railway heritage that shaped the town’s identity.

The project has secured government backing following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ spending review and forms part of the government’s 10-year infrastructure strategy.

Mr Stone added: “Innovative projects like the Midlands Rail hub prove that investments in our railways, fully funded by the Chancellor, are transformative for communities, bringing new jobs and skills to areas across the country.”

Travel giant Expedia has shared its top 10 destinations of the year, which are powered by real-time data from daily visitors to its site and app

If you fancy exploring hidden gems, these top 10 spots revealed by the travel giant might be perfect for your upcoming getaway. Expedia’s 2026 destinations of the year list draws on real-time data from daily visitors to its site and app.

The announcement coincides with the travel giant launching its Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report. It showcases where worldwide interest is surging rapidly.

This year’s selection features France, Italy, alongside more distant locations in Canada and Mexico.

Six of these emerging hotspots also satisfy the requirements for Expedia’s fresh Smart Travel Health Check, which acknowledges destinations that actively manage tourism sustainably, reports the Express.

Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, said: “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations.

“With one billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn’t just a travel marketplace, we’re a catalyst for positive change.

“We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”

Big Sky, Montana, U.S.

Nestled within the Rocky Mountains’ core, Big Sky in Montana provides year-round activities.

During winter months, the area becomes a snow enthusiast’s haven, whilst summer brings spectacular walking routes.

Okinawa, Japan Okinawa

Japan’s southernmost island chain, offers a blend of turquoise waters, coral reefs and a unique Ryukyuan heritage. Once a kingdom in its own right, the region now provides a mix of hospitality, history, and a relaxed island lifestyle.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a hidden jewel in the Mediterranean, offering crystal-clear waters, ancient history and untouched landscapes. From glamorous beaches to a bustling city, Sardinia provides an Italian getaway without the crowds.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Located off the southwest coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island boasts white sandy beaches and emerald waters. Once a tranquil fishing hub, it’s now a fusion of beach resorts and night markets.

Savoie, France

Tucked away in the French Alps, Savoie is home to world-class ski resorts, making it perfect for a winter holiday. In summer, anticipate hiking, cycling and sailing, as well as indulging in cheese fondue and alpine wines.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, U.S.

North Florida’s Gulf Coast is a region of exceptional natural beauty, with picturesque beaches and nature walks where you can explore the state’s native parks. It’s the ideal spot for those who love the outdoors, with activities such as snorkelling, hiking and dolphin watching.

Ucluelet, Canada

Visitors to Ucluelet can enjoy surfing, kayaking, and spotting whales and sea lions just offshore. There are also plenty of land-based activities like rock climbing, ziplining, biking and wildlife watching.

Or, if you prefer to relax, there are numerous top hotels and holiday rentals available.

Cotswolds, UK

The Cotswolds, one of England’s most scenic regions, is home to quaint towns like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Here, you can wander through historic gardens, savour a pint in traditional English pubs and tearooms, and admire the iconic Cotswold stone.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Tucked away in Mexico’s central highlands, San Miguel de Allende is a compact city boasting stunning architecture, ancient religious structures and cobbled streets. It’s renowned for its community of artisans and artists, with some of their finest works on display at the Fabrica La Aurora galleries and studios.

Hobart, Australia

Once notorious as a penal colony, this harbour city has transformed into Tasmania’s cultural heart, drawing food enthusiasts and nature buffs from around the globe. Hobart serves up some of the country’s most inventive cuisine, and its beer, wine and produce are celebrated across Australia.

AN island off the coast of Africa wants to be a rival to the Spanish islands with Brits.

Djerba is off the coast of Tunisia, and welcomed new easyJet flights from the UK last year.

Mohamed Mehdi Haloui, Director General of the Tunisian Tourist Office told Travel Gossip: “We want Djerba to become an alternative to the Canary Islands and Egypt for winter sun.

“We think 2026 is going to be the year Djerba takes off.

“It’s a small place, but it offers a very diverse product, including nature, history and good food.”

British tourists have increased by 40 per cent this year to nearly 400,000 making the UK the second biggest market to the region (behind France).

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The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot was one of the first to visit Djerba after the new easyJet flights launched.

She said: “The resemblance to the alleyways of Mykonos and Santorini is striking in the small town of Erriadh, which sits at the centre of the island of Djerba.

“At its heart is Djerbahood, with more than 250 murals and sculptures from some of the world’s best street artists.

“Djerba is a great-value option for those looking to explore beyond the Med favourites. 

“A small cup of strong coffee here costs 25p, while small ceramic gifts can be found for £2.

“Temperatures remain high all the way through to November and rarely dip below the 20Cs, even in the depths of winter.”

Plans for next year include concerts and events celebrating Star Wars, which was filmed in Tunisia 50 years ago.

Around £350million is being put into upgrading hotels, with new chains also opening.

Flights to Djerba can be found from £25 with easyJet, when travelling from London Luton

Flights take around 3hr30, and there are also flights from Manchester.

And seven-night breaks with easyJet Holidays start from £323pp.

All of the holiday packages come with return flights, hotel stays, transfers and 23kg of luggage.

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Here are even other island alternatives to go on for your next holiday.

And here is a Bali-alternative without the crowds.

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in China has been officially opened and is now the highest bridge in the world – reducing the journey time for locals from two hours to just two minutes

China has unveiled a stunning new record-breaker after officially opening the world’s highest bridge in Guizhou province in the southwest of the country. The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge has slashed journey times from two hours down to just two minutes, according to local state media.

The remarkable structure boasts a deck-to-surface measurement of 625 metres – more than half a kilometre – making it tower above the previous record holder. It beats the Beipanjiang Bridge (Duge Bridge), also in China, which stands at 565.4 metres, by nearly 60 metres.

China’s rapid construction capabilities have recently drawn admiration from figures including Reform UK MP Zia Yusuf, who publicly expressed frustration on social media about the lengthy timescales for smaller infrastructure schemes in the United Kingdom.

Work on the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge commenced in January 2022 and was finished in under four years. The ambitious scheme resulted in a structure stretching almost 3km across a canyon dubbed the “Earth crack”.

The bridge measures 2,890 metres in total length and underwent rigorous testing before authorities gave the green light for public use.

As reported by ITV, before the bridge could be deemed safe for traffic, a dynamic load test was conducted, reports the Express.

This involved 96 lorries driving onto specific points of the structure in groups.

The new structure has now bagged the Guinness World Record for being the tallest bridge globally.

Now, globetrotters from all corners of the world are keen to witness the magnificent construction that officially opened its doors on 28 September 2025.

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge boasts glass walkways for visitors to gaze down at the Beipan River, approximately 580 metres below.

It also features viewing platforms and a glass lift leading to its sky-high café, set to open in November this year.

For those seeking a thrill, they can bungee jump from the bridge.

State media have reported plans for professional BASE jumping events.

THE first look at the plane set to serve the world’s longest flight has been revealed – and it even has a wellbeing area.

Qantas and Airbus have unveiled the first look of the aircraft that is due to travel non-stop between Australia and London and New York.

Nicknamed Project Sunrise, it will be the longest flight available to date -lasting 22 hours – thanks to an additional 20,000 litre fuel tank.

The flight is expected to cut up to four hours off total travel time compared to today’s one-stop services.

Onboard the plane, the cabins have been developed with the help from aviation experts.

Sleep scientists have even helped to combat jetlag on the plane, through features including unique lighting and a timed meal service.

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The cabin will also give passengers more space than usual.

There will be 238 seats, compared to over 300 seats usually found on other A350-1000 operators.

Also onboard the plane, there will be a Wellbeing Zone located between Premium Economy and Economy.

In the Wellbeing Zone, there will be stretch handles, guided on-screen exercise programmes, a hydration station and a range of refreshments.

For First Class, there will be six spacious suites that feature a flat bed and separate reclining arm chair.

Each suite will also have work and dining space for up to two people, a full-length wardrobe and other storage areas.

For entertainment, each suite will have a 32 inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth connection.

There will also be a Business Class, Economy Plus and Economy cabins.

Key features of an Economy seat include 13.1-inch screens, a six-way adjustable headrest, multi-use seatback table, two USB-C outlets and a shelf for personal devices.

And there will be free Wi-Fi across all cabins.

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said: “Given Australia’s position in the world, Qantas has a long history of breaking aviation barriers.

“Project Sunrise will not only overcome the tyranny of distance, it will fundamentally change the way our customers travel the world.

“These flights will cut up to four hours off the journey and transform how people experience ultra long-haul travel, through science backed design to minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing.”

The first of 12 new aircraft will be delivered in late 2026, with the first commercial flight due to take off in the first half of 2027.

The initial flights launched will be from Sydney to London and New York.

The news follows Qantas’ announcement of new Economy Plus seats.

The airline’s new Economy Plus cabin features extra legroom for passengers.

The new cabin will launch in February 2026 on the Airbus A321XLR, A220 and Boeing 737 aircraft.

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In other aviation news, thousands of flights have been cancelled across the US amid a government shutdown – here’s what to do if you’re affected.

Plus, a UK airline has gone into administration after 28 years – after axing ALL flights.