As rickshaw puller Anwar Pagla turned into the road leading to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) office in Gulshan, Dhaka, on the afternoon after the parliamentary election, a small commotion stirred. His rickshaw had a Bangladeshi flag fixed to one side of the hood and the BNP’s flag to the other. Pagla is an ardent supporter.

“They call me mad because I consider this party everything in my life. But it doesn’t matter. We have won and Bangladesh will now be better,” he told Al Jazeera.

Nearly two decades after it last governed, the BNP returned to power after a landslide victory in Thursday’s parliamentary election.

The Election Commission published the gazette of the members of parliament elected, a final official seal on the election process, on Saturday. The centre-right BNP’s alliance secured 212 of the 300 seats. The alliance led by its main rival, the Jamaat-e-Islami – Bangladesh’s largest religion-based party – secured 77.

Those elections came a year and a half after a nationwide protest movement ousted the country’s former leadership and saw 1,400 people killed in the streets. Bangladesh has been led by a caretaker government since Sheikh Hasina, who led the crackdown, fled the country.

The BNP’s Tarique Rahman, set to become Bangladesh’s next prime minister, greeted supporters on Friday, saying he was “grateful for the love” they had shown him. He promised throughout BNP’s campaign to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Mahdi Amin, BNP’s election steering committee spokesperson, said Rahman pledged that, as prime minister, he would safeguard the rights and freedoms of citizens.

Thursday’s vote passed largely peacefully, and, despite alleging “inconsistencies and fabrications” during the vote count, Jamaat accepted the outcome of the election on Saturday.

BNP had recently lost its former chairperson, Khaleda Zia – Tarique Rahman’s mother and a two-time prime minister – who died on December 30.

Khaleda Zia had led the party to power in 1991 and again in 2001. Two decades later, her son has returned the BNP to government.

At the party’s Gulshan office that afternoon, BNP activist Kamal Hossain stood among a jubilant crowd. Visibly emotional, he reflected on what he described as years of repression.

“For so long, I felt the regime of Sheikh Hasina would never go,” he said. Referring to the July 2024 uprising that forced her to flee, he added: “Now people have given us this mandate. We have taken back Bangladesh.”

Hossain said the new government’s immediate priorities should be job creation and curbing inflation.

“Prices have been hurting us, and there are too many unemployed young people. The government must address this immediately,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, remained unusually quiet on Friday.

The calm was largely by design: the BNP chose not to hold victory processions.

The Jamaat head office in the capital’s Moghbazar also appeared subdued on Friday. A few supporters around the head office expressed disappointment.

“There has been engineering in the counting process, and the media has been biased against the Jamaat alliance,” said Abdus Salam, a supporter near the office. He argued that a fair process would have yielded more seats.

Others, like Germany-based Jamaat supporter Muaz Abdullah, said Jamaat’s defeat was a failure of organisation.

“In many constituencies, Jamaat didn’t run a good election campaign. They didn’t even have proper polling agents in several places,” he said.

Though the BNP and Jamaat were allies for years, they faced each other as rivals in this election. The campaign period saw sporadic violence and months of divisive online rhetoric.

Sujan Mia, a BNP activist outside the party office, struck a conciliatory tone. “We do not want enmity. We should focus on building the nation,” he said.

Rezaul Karim Rony, editor of Joban Magazine and a political analyst who closely followed the BNP’s campaign, said the party’s victory is likely to allay concerns of a lurch to the right in Bangladesh.

“Through this election, people have, in a sense, freed the country’s politics from that risk,” he argued.

However, Rony cautioned that the real test begins now.

“The challenge is to ensure good governance, law and order, and public safety – and to establish a rights-based state,” he said, describing those goals as being at the “heart of the aspirations of the 2024 mass uprising.”

Michael Kugelman, senior fellow for South Asia at the Atlantic Council, said a BNP victory represents “a blow to the politics of change that have galvanised Bangladesh since the 2024 mass uprising”.

“The BNP, dynastic and long saddled with corruption allegations, reflects the principles that the Gen Z protesters rejected,” he said.

The party will now face pressure from both the public and the opposition to push beyond old political habits, Kugelman added.

“If the new government falls back on repressive or retributive politics, reform advocates will be disappointed and democratisation efforts will be set back,” he said.

The outcome might be the least disruptive for the region as a whole.

Pakistan might have preferred a Jamaat win, given the party’s historical affinity for Islamabad. But Pakistan has also had strong relations with the BNP, Kugelman pointed out, as has China.

And “India much prefers the BNP to Jamaat,” he added, noting that the BNP is no longer in alliance with Jamaat, which New Delhi believes takes positions contrary to its interests.

Back at the BNP’s office in Dhaka, however, geopolitics felt distant.

Shamsud Doha, a party leader, had brought his two grandchildren to share the moment.

“Nothing matches this feeling,” he said. “We have long suffered under autocratic rule. Now it is our time to build the nation.”

GORDON Ramsay has insisted that good friend David Beckham WILL end the ongoing feud with son Brooklyn.

The star has been in contact with the aspiring chef, offering messages of support and encouraging the 26-year-old to heal the heartbreaking rift.

Brooklyn, 26, blocked his parents Victoria and David and brothers Romeo and Cruz on Instagram last year. 

He then posted an explosive statement claiming his mum danced “inappropriately” with him at his lavish wedding in 2022. 

Gordon has now said that David is will get his relationship with Brooklyn “back on track” – but said he understood why Victoria was “upset”.

The Michelin starred restauranteur said: “Victoria is upset, and I know 24/7, seven days a week, just how much David loves Brooklyn.

READ MORE ON THE BECKHAMS

KEEP IT INDIE FAMILY

Cruz Beckham debuts brand new track & releases video – with grandad

Cruz Beckham will appear on Chris Evans’ TFI Unplugged THIS week

“Brooklyn and I have messaged a little bit, our relationship is solid. I love him – his heart is incredible.

“But it’s hard, isn’t it, when you’re infatuated. Love is blind. It’s easy to get up on that roller coaster, and get carried away. But it will come back.

“I’ve seen first hand just how good parents they are. David as a dad is just incredible. They have both put so much energy into their kids, and I know just how many times they have got Brooklyn out of the s***.”

Gordon continued: “I think it’s going to be a matter of time before Brooklyn takes a good look at himself and understands just what his parents mean to him.

”He’s desperate to forge his own way, and I respect that from Brooklyn. It’s such a good thing to do. But remember where you came from.

”And honestly, one day you’re not going to have your mum and dad, and you need to understand that. That penny will drop.

”I just want Brooklyn to take a moment to himself. And remember: You’re half mum, half dad. And you’re an amazing young man. But, boy, they’ve done more for you than anyone did in your entire life.

”Time’s going to be the best healer, and David will absolutely get that relationship back on track.”

While Brooklyn has blocked many of his family members on Instagram, he and Gordon still follow one another.

The chef, who has almost 20mn followers, has helped the youngster, and publicly backed his cooking endeavours where others were quick to mock.

Friends for almost two and a half decades, meanwhile, Posh and Becks, and Gordon and Tana have been there, through thick and thin, for one another.

Brooklyn addressed the family feud in his ­statement last month and claimed: “My mum called me ‘evil’.” 

He defended wife Nicola, 31, amid claims she was controlling him and said: “The narrative that my wife controls me is completely backwards. 

“I have been controlled by my parents for most of my life. I grew up with overwhelming anxiety. 

“For the first time in my life, since stepping away from my family, that anxiety has disappeared. 

“I wake up every morning grateful for the life I chose, and have found peace and relief. I don’t want to reconcile with my family.” 

After the January return of Douglas Luiz – signed from Manchester City in 2019 – Villa are just one away, a left-back, from being able to field a team of Smith players.

Add Lucas Digne, who joined under Steven Gerrard, and it will be a side without the initial input of Unai Emery, even if the Spaniard has re-signed Luiz and Ross Barkley.

Smith was sacked in November 2021 after three years in charge but his influence remains.

In January 2019 he signed Tyrone Mings on loan from Bournemouth, the longest serving player of his reign, who played his 200th game for Villa in the win over Brighton.

Ezri Konsa and Luiz arrived in the summer, after Villa were promoted to the Premier League, while Matty Cash, Emi Martinez, Lamare Bogarde, Barkley, Leon Bailey, Emi Buendia and Ollie Watkins also joined under the former Brentford boss.

The backbone of the squad are players – Mings, Konsa, Watkins, Cash and John McGinn – signed from a lower level [the Championship and Scottish Premiership] with a risk element attached.

McGinn signed for £3.5m from Hibernian under Steve Bruce while Konsa – now an England international – joined from Brentford for £12m and Cash cost £16m from Nottingham Forest.

Emery has lifted the squad to unexpected levels but unless they unearth a gem, Villa cannot replace Konsa for £12m in the current market and certainly not for the relatively low fees previously spent.

There lies the biggest problem, succession planning with limited funds.

The average age of Villa’s starting XI is 28 years and 84 days – the second oldest in the Premier League – and there is internal recognition it needs to be dealt with.

Brazilian winger Alysson, 19, joined from Gremio for £10m last month with 17-year-old Brian Madjo arriving from Metz for a similar fee to start that process.

Villa signed them earlier than they would have liked but moved to get the pair for a smaller fee, reducing the risk.

Neither are expected to make an immediate impact, although Alysson made his debut in midweek, but the January window was viewed as striking a balance – addressing the age issue and solving the first-team problems.

Striker Tammy Abraham arrived to back up Watkins while Luiz returned on loan from Juventus out of necessity following Boubacar Kamara’s season-ending knee injury.

With Villa committed to spending £18.25m on Abraham they had no money left to cover Kamara, so Luiz was ideal.

He was cheap, available, with his loan at Nottingham Forest being cancelled, and knew what Emery demands.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has determined it is safe for Yemenis to return to their country, despite ongoing conflict.

The United States government has ended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Yemen, ordering the more than 1,000 Yemeni refugees and asylum seekers living in the country to leave within 60 days or face arrest and deportation.

The action on Friday came as part of US President Donald Trump’s broad immigration crackdown, which is impacting those who fled perilous lives in war-torn countries.

It will terminate TPS for roughly 1,400 Yemeni nationals who have had access to the legal status since September 2015 because of armed conflict in their country, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced on Friday.

“After reviewing conditions in the country and consulting with appropriate US government agencies, I determined that Yemen no longer meets the law’s requirements to be designated for Temporary Protected Status,” Noem said in a statement.

“Allowing TPS Yemen beneficiaries to remain temporarily in the United States is contrary to our national interest,” she said, describing the revocation as an act of “putting America first.”

Contrary to Noem’s determination, Yemen continues to be riven by years-long conflict in one of the world’s poorest nations.

The State Department currently advises against travel to Yemen, citing “terrorism, unrest, crime, health risks, kidnapping, and landmines”.

TPS allows narrow groups of people in the US to live and work in the country if they’re deemed to be in danger if they return to their home nations, because of war, natural disaster or other extraordinary circumstances.

While the protections are technically temporary, historically, presidents have continued to renew TPS statuses for refugees and asylum seekers rather than revoking them and rendering them undocumented.

The TPS for Yemen was last extended in 2024 and was set to expire on March 3 of this year.

Yemeni beneficiaries with no other lawful basis for remaining in the US have 60 days to voluntarily depart the country or face arrest, the statement said, offering a complimentary plane ticket and a $2,600 “exit bonus” for those who “self-deport”.

Since coming to office last year, Trump has ended the status for Venezuelans, Hondurans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, Somalis, Ukrainians and thousands of others.

The Trump administration has also expanded its travel restrictions since returning to power, imposing a total ban on citizens of 19 countries from entering the US, primarily targeting Muslim-majority and African nations, including Yemen, Somalia and South Sudan.

Citizens from a further 29 countries, including Nigeria and Senegal, are subject to partial bans.

HALF-TERM is officially here and if you’re looking for a way to keep your little ones occupied, we have just the thing.

The UK’s favourite theme parks are once again opening their gates this week, with a variety of events on offer.

Whether your child is a thrill-seeker or K-pop fan, there’s something for everyone this half-term.

Enjoy a well-deserved break with your family at discounted prices this off-season.

Scroll down to read all about the offers currently available at your favourite theme parks.

Alton Towers

Visitors can enjoy access to select areas of Alton Towers this February half-term as the Pirate Takeover Returns.

ROLLING ON

UK’s ‘largest free-entry theme park’ WILL reopen despite liquidation last week

RIDE ON

I went to the European theme park where you ‘travel through time’

Whether you join Captain Black’s motley crew for an exciting pirate adventure in Mutiny Bay and Towers Street, or venture into CBeebies Land, there’s something for everyong this half-term.

There will also be live entertainment, with pre-booked tickets starting from just £34, another 50 per cent saving.

Alton Towers will then re-open fully on March 14, with the brand new Bluey Ride in operation.

Legoland Windsor

Celebrating its 30th birthday, Legoland Windsor will welcome guests from February 14 to 23 before its official re-opening on March 14.

Advanced bookings start from £32, saving you half the price as on-the-day tickets.

With a variety of special events planned throughout the year for the park’s anniversary, fans can start with February’s Brick Days, which are “designed to unleash your imagination” and “immerse you in a world of creativity”.

Chessington World of Adventures

While the Zoo and Sea Life section of Chessington World of Adventures is open year-round, visitors will have access to select rides and attractions this half-term.

Enjoy wild rides and up-close animal talks as part of the fun activities this February.

The full theme park will re-open on March 20, including its a brand new Paw Patrol-themed land.

Visitors can pre-book online for £34, offering a 48 per cent saving compared with on-the-gate prices.

Drayton Manor

 Select rides at Drayton Manor will be open throughout half-term, including a K-pop takeover with live performances and themed entertainment.

The full park, including the soft play, train rides, and zoo, will be open on weekends from March 14 and then daily from April 1.

Online tickets start from £27.50, and £15 for those aged two to three, saving you nearly 40 per cent compared with on-the-door prices.

Paultons Park

Already re-opened for weekends, Paultons Park will welcome visitors on select rides this half-term.

Peppa Pig World will be open all week, offering “nine oinktastic rides and a giant indoor playzone”, making it ideal for all kinds of weather.

It will them open daily for the full season from March 25, with access to its new themed land Valgard: Realm of the Vikings beginning in May.

Advanced bookings start from £46.75, saving you more than 30 per cent per person.

Gulliver’s Land Theme Park

And Gulliver’s Land Theme Park will also host a half-term opening beginning on February 14.

Previously only indoor attractions have been open, but now select rides will also be available to customers.

Visitors can get a taste for the park’s Spring Specatular event, with early bird tickets starting from just £17 per person right now.

Other promotional offers are available for families during the off-season, with prices for a group of four starting from just £39.

Former Philippine justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II also among eight current, past officials named in complaint.

Two sitting Philippine senators have been identified as “co-perpetrators” in former president Rodrigo Duterte‘s crimes against humanity trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC), documents released by prosecutors show.

Senators Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Christopher “Bong” Go are among eight current and former officials named in a document dated February 13 and posted to the court’s website late on Friday.

Duterte was arrested in the Philippines’ capital, Manila, in March 2025, and was swiftly flown to the Netherlands, where he has been held in ICC custody at The Hague. The 80-year-old insists his arrest was unlawful.

ICC prosecutors have charged him with three counts of crimes against humanity, alleging his involvement in at least 76 murders as part of his “war on drugs”.

“Duterte and his co-perpetrators shared a common plan or agreement to ‘neutralise’ alleged criminals in the Philippines [including those perceived or alleged to be associated with drug use, sale or production] through violent crimes including murder,” the prosecution document reads.

Dela Rosa, the former national police chief and enforcer of Duterte’s drug war, has previously said he believed he faced potential arrest and has been in hiding for months.

Go, re-elected in May in a landslide victory, was a key lieutenant of Duterte during both the latter’s terms as mayor of southern Davao City and as president from 2016 to 2022.

A representative of Dela Rosa said they had not yet seen the document. Go has yet to comment on the latest development.

It was not immediately clear if any of the men named in the prosecution document would face charges in court.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Kristina Conti, lawyer of several of the deceased victims’ families, noted that it’s the first time “significant details” were disclosed by the ICC to the public.

She said the inclusion of several high-ranking officials under Duterte showed that the deadly drug war under his presidency “was crafted not only to ensure implementation, but to ensure impunity”.

“The involvement of those in the investigating units, which should have acted as the killings happen, is material to the plan. This also emphasizes that the ‘war on drugs’ began in Davao,” Conti said.

Duterte is facing a four-day “confirmation of charges” hearing from February 23, in which judges will decide whether the prosecution’s allegations are strong enough to proceed to trial.

Judges have rejected arguments that the 80-year-old, who was arrested in March last year and transferred to the Netherlands the same day, was unfit to stand trial.

Go and Dela Rosa have been named as co-perpetrators in acts that took place during Duterte’s tenures as Davao mayor and president.

Former Philippine justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, who served as a lawyer for Duterte in cases involving the so-called “Davao Death Squad”, is also among the eight men named.

Ross Tugade, an ICC-accredited lawyer from the Philippines, said in a post on Facebook that the inclusion of the names of former Duterte officials indicates “that the ICC has evidence” to show a “criminal structure” in the commission of the alleged crimes.

The first of three counts against Duterte concerns his alleged involvement as a co-perpetrator in 19 murders carried out between 2013 and 2016 while he was mayor of Davao City.

The second relates to 14 murders of so-called “High Value Targets” in 2016 and 2017 when Duterte was president.

The third charge covers 43 murders committed during “clearance” operations of lower-level alleged drug users or pushers.

These took place across the Philippines between 2016 and 2018, the prosecution alleged.

The ICC also on Friday allowed the addition of 500 more complainants against Duterte in the trial.

Single on Valentine’s Day? Skip the predictable romance films and celebrate with these nostalgic, feel-good movies to lift your spirits

Valentine’s Day has come round once more, and if you’re not getting caught up in all the soppy, romantic nonsense, there’s loads of other ways you can spend your evening. If you’re staying in and swerving all the loved-up couples out there, telly is an excellent means of escape.

Valentine’s Day needn’t revolve around romance, after all. If you’ve had your fill of formulaic, predictable romantic flicks, here are some brilliant alternatives that’ll rekindle your appreciation for those nearest and dearest.

So whether you fancy a giggle on your own or with mates, ditch those rom-coms for some feel-good nostalgia this Valentine’s Day.

Angus, Thongs & Perfect Snogging (2008)

For anyone wanting to grasp what life was like as a British teenage girl in the late noughties, Angus, Thongs & Perfect Snogging hits frighteningly close to home. At some stage, we’ve all caught ourselves relating to Georgia’s worldview, however misguided it might be, reports the Express.

Adapted from Louise Rennison’s bestselling book series, we follow 14-year-old Georgia Nicholson (Georgia Groome) as she tries to navigate adolescence whilst pining after the new lad in town – a breakthrough performance from Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Throughout her mission to bag a boyfriend and organise a spectacular 15th birthday bash at a nightclub, we witness the inner workings of the teenage brain manifesting in reality through some absolutely hilarious and toe-curling antics.

Shaving off an eyebrow? Absolutely. Faking the disappearance of a beloved moggy for sympathy? Naturally. A massive pair of granny pants? Without question.

Whilst this flick might centre on Georgia’s romantic pursuits, beneath the surface lies a tender coming-of-age tale exploring insecurity, platonic bonds, and that distinctly teenage sensation that everything is utterly catastrophic. Plus, it boasts what’s arguably one of cinema’s finest original songs, guaranteed to transport you straight back to those nostalgic days.

Planning to mark Valentine’s Day with your mates this year? Nobody’s turning down this gem. Angus, Thongs & Perfect Snogging proved a defining British picture for younger audiences back then, and continues to supply countless cultural touchstones we reference today.

In fact, Georgia Groome recently resurrected that legendary olive outfit for a cameo appearance in the reveal video for Maisie Peters’ latest album ‘Florescence’. Nearly two decades on and that immortal line still echoes: “Boys don’t like girls for funniness”.

The film is available to stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

Wild Child (2008)

The year 2008 was evidently peak teen cinema. On one side sits Angus, Thongs & Perfect Snogging, offering a relatively authentic portrayal of adolescent life for girls during the noughties, whilst on the other stands Emma Roberts ‘ Wild Child.

What do you do with a spoilt, glamorous Malibu Barbie teenager who leaps off cliffs into the ocean? Simple – pack them off to an all-girls boarding school deep in the English countryside.

A genuine fish out of water, Emma Roberts’ Poppy Moore couldn’t be more different from the seemingly prudish, eccentric pupils she encounters at Abbey Mount. It’s quite the exaggerated portrayal of boarding school life, but that’s rather the point – to knock the protagonist down a peg or two.

Gradually, the crisp English climate begins breaking down Poppy’s defences as she develops authentic bonds with her roommates – Kate (Kimberley Nixon), Josie (Linzey Cocker), Kiki (Sophie Wu), and Jennifer “Drippy” Logan (Juno Temple). Naturally there’s a love interest (Alex Pettyfer) and a sworn enemy (Georgia King) determined to see her fail, though that’s really beside the point when there’s such entertaining mischief afoot.

Beneath the rebellious and entitled façade lies genuine warmth, drawn out through the connections she forges. Ultimately, Poppy emerges transformed – having discovered a missing piece of herself through real mates who embrace her for who she truly is, whilst wreaking havoc around campus. Whilst Wild Child might not be the most universally relatable picture, there’s something in all of us that yearns for that kind of school adventure.

The film also marks one of Natasha Richardson’s final performances (as headmistress Mrs Kingsley) prior to her tragic passing in 2009.

Wild Child is available to stream on Netflix.

The Breakfast Club (1985)

This film boasts what’s arguably one of cinema’s most iconic closing sequences and exit tracks. The Breakfast Club, a coming-of-age comedy-drama, follows a group of outsiders whiling away the hours together during an all-day Saturday detention.

Each teenager belongs to a different social circle within the school, and their paths would ordinarily never cross in daily life. They’re set the task of penning a thousand-word essay on “who you think you are” by their notoriously harsh vice principal (Paul Gleason).

Alongside the usual rebellious teenage shenanigans and storylines, the film explores the realities lurking beneath the stereotypes presented on screen. It tackles themes including peer pressure, abuse, neglect, troubled relationships, and suicide in a manner that resonates with its audience, rendering the characters relatable to viewers.

Despite their contrasts, the group discover they’re all grappling with comparable struggles and form connections with one another. It serves as a reminder that surface appearances can be deceiving.

Whilst the group suspect their newly-formed bonds will dissolve once detention wraps up, they acknowledge they’ll view their classmates through fresh eyes going forward. As the film reaches its conclusion, we hear their moving message to their vice principal, declaring: “Each one of us is a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess, and a criminal.

“Does that answer your question? Sincerely yours, the Breakfast Club.”

Cue Judd Nelson’s fist raise and Simple Minds’ ‘Don’t You Forget About Me’.

The Breakfast Club can be watched via Netflix, Amazon Prime and NOW TV.

Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)

There’s something about a 90s comedy that hits all of the right spots, something the 2020s can learn from. The film follows underachieving best friends Romy (Mira Sorvino) and Michele ( Lisa Kudrow ) who decide to reinvent themselves with fake careers to impress their former classmates at their ten-year high school reunion.

The film kicks off with the drama of the girls’ prom in 1987, where they find themselves targeted by bullying from the high school cheerleader clique. Some stroppy behaviour leads the girls to do the classic slow dance together.

Fast forward, the duo don’t appear to have achieved much success since leaving school, stuck in dead-end jobs – or jobless – living a life lacking in some sort of purpose. They’re fine, totally fine.

It’s the invitation from one of their high school tormentors to their high school reunion that makes them pull their socks up, but only in the pretence sense. It’s your typical American movie that takes you on a journey, both literally and figuratively.

Following a catastrophic falling out over their friendship, the pair go their separate ways after their drive cross-country to the reunion. Or do they?

The film is madcap, light-hearted, and chock-full of clichés, but sometimes that’s just the ticket. Let’s face it, we all need a good giggle now and then, and anything featuring Lisa Kudrow is guaranteed to leave you in fits of laughter.

You can catch this film on Disney+.

Frances Ha (2012)

Whilst we’re accustomed to seeing Greta Gerwig behind the lens, she’s equally at home in front of it. The film stars Gerwig as a struggling dancer in New York, grappling with the rollercoaster ride of her twenties alongside her best mate, Sophie (Mickey Sumner).

They say your twenties are meant to be the time of your life, but in truth, you’re still figuring out who you are and where you fit into the world. We can all identify with the unpredictability of existence; flitting from one flat to another, settling for jobs you don’t really fancy, and witnessing friendships fade as they form new relationships.

Life in the Big Apple can be complex and unsettling, regardless of which side of the Atlantic you hail from. The trials and tribulations of everyday life can weigh heavily, with Frances battling to make her mark on New York.

The film masterfully blends comedy, drama and emotion to paint an authentic picture of struggling twenty-somethings.

In 2025, Frances Ha secured the 90th spot on The New York Times’ list of “The 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century”. Writing for Harper’s Bazaar, Yasmin Omar noted: “Frances Ha has become a cult classic thanks to its relatable portrait of the bewildering life stage that is young adulthood.”

Frances Ha is available on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

Feb. 13 (Asia Today) — Seoul apartment prices have risen more than 6% a year on average over the past four decades, data showed, reinforcing perceptions among South Korean buyers that housing in the capital remains a “safe asset.”

KB Real Estate data showed Seoul apartment prices increased an average of 6.17% a year from 1987 through 2025. That compares with a 2.56% average rise in other regions outside major metropolitan cities, the data showed.

Market analysts attributed the gap partly to policies and tax rules that have discouraged multiple-home ownership, while encouraging demand for a single “best-in-class” property in Seoul, fueling persistent scarcity.

Demand has also been supported by tighter rules on property transactions in Seoul. After the government designated the entire capital as a land transaction permit zone, purchases that rely on “gap investment” – buying a home while using a tenant’s large lump-sum deposit lease to fund the purchase – have become harder, pushing lease prices higher, analysts said.

The Korea Real Estate Board said Seoul apartment lease prices rose 3.76% last year.

A real estate industry official said Seoul apartments tend to hold value during market downturns, then rise sharply in upswings, adding that some buyers are now focusing on large new pre-sale projects as lease prices climb and new supply remains limited.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260213010004938

THREE people were detained after a Swat team descended on a home near the Tucson home of missing Nancy Guthrie, reports say.

The Friday night operation unfolded about two miles from Guthrie’s property as members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department executed a search warrant, reportedly acting on a tip.

Two men – along with one of their mothers – were taken into custody, a local police told Fox News Digital.

It’s unclear whether any of those detained are considered suspects.

Late Friday, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department posted on X that a statement would be “forthcoming,” but did not specify what the announcement would address.

The SWAT operation came just hours after investigators recovered DNA evidence from someone not known to be “close” to Guthrie at her property.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed the unidentified DNA – discovered on the missing 84-year-old’s Tucson property – is now central to the probe.

He declined to say where inside the home it was found.

This is breaking news. More to follow… please refresh for more updates and follow the-sun.com for the biggest stories of the day…

Available for over a year

In the 1970s and 80s the sport of darts was booming in the UK. It was on TV almost every week and the sport’s stars were household names.

But by 1989 the sport was in decline, and the world championship was the only event that was still televised.

The sport’s top players blamed the British Darts Organisation for failing to keep the game on TV and broke away to form their own competitions in 1993.

This rival tour became the Players Darts Council in 1997, which is now responsible for the sport’s biggest tournaments.

John Lowe MBE is a three-time world darts champion and was one of the rebel players. He’s been speaking to Tim O’Callaghan.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You’ll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.

Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women’s World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football’s biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who’ve had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.

(Photo: John Lowe at the 1993 Darts World Championship. Credit:Mark Leech/Offside via Getty Images)

Programme WebsiteShow less

Stylish lakeside huts in Somerset

Six vintage-style “luxury huts” spaced out around a lake make up The Shepherds Hut Retreat in south Somerset. They have modern kitchens and bathrooms, private areas with hot tubs, and fancy features such as telescopes, gin bars, pizza ovens, fire pits and hammocks. There is also a woodland sauna on site. The newest hut, 1898, is the grandest, and is inspired by the Pig hotels. It is a mile’s walk to the Lord Poulett Arms, a thatched 17th-century pub in the village of Hinton St George, and half an hour’s drive to the beaches of the Jurassic Coast in east Devon and Dorset.
From £169, coolstays.com

A Jacobean manor in Kent

Boys Hall, a gorgeous Jacobean manor house near Ashford, is now a restaurant with rooms. The pub area has comfy chairs and a wood burner; lounges with inglenook fireplaces, sofas and books; there’s more than a hectare (2½ acres) of grounds, including a rose garden. The restaurant is a light, oak-framed space serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a weekly changing set menu of Kentish produce (three courses for £30; perhaps venison terrine, braised beef cheek stew and winter berry trifle). The nine rooms feature original stone mullion windows, oak panels and beams, plus rolltop baths and four-poster beds.
From £220 B&B, boys-hall.com

A fairytale farm cottage in the Malvern Hills

Wishbone is a 16th-century, fairytale cottage hidden away on an ancient fruit farm. The stone and timber barn is half-covered by foliage on the outside, but the inside has been beautifully restored and converted. There is a vaulted ceiling above the open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas, a bedroom with a king-size bed and an en suite shower room. Original wattle and daub panels, brick floors and beams add to the charm, and barn doors open on to the patio. Beyond the orchard in front of the cottage are fields with oak trees and a lake.
From £850 for two nights, uniquehomestays.com

A thatched pub in Bedfordshire

Thousands of Uber, Bolt and Addison Lee drivers will log off on Valentine’s Day, urging customers to boycott ride-hailing apps as unions accuse firms and TfL of failing to address falling pay, safety risks and unfair working conditions.

Private hire drivers across the UK are urging customers to boycott major ride-hailing apps on Valentine’s Day as part of a protest over pay, working conditions and what they describe as regulatory failures.

Members of the Independent Workers of Great Britain (IWGB) Private Hire Drivers branch are asking consumers not to use Uber, Bolt or Addison Lee on Saturday 14 February, while drivers log off the platforms and join a motorcade in central London from 5pm to demand legislative reform.

Nader Awaad, chairman of the IWGB Private Hire Drivers branch, described drivers’ experiences as “systemic exploitation” caused by fare structures, rising operating costs and what he calls insufficient oversight from Transport for London (TfL).

Awaad, 59, from Walthamstow, began driving in 2019 after being made redundant from a senior management role. He told The Mirror: “The UK’s private hire industry is a wild west. With no protection from unfair dismissal, drivers see their livelihoods disappear in the blink of an eye.

“With no real safety measures, we are left unprotected from passenger violence, frequently resulting in serious injuries or, in the tragic case of our member Gabriel Bringye, death. And that’s before we even start talking about pay,” he said.

Gabriel Bringye, 37, was a much loved private hire driver from Tottemham, north London. In February 2021, he was fatally stabbed during a robbery by a group of teenagers who had booked his cab by chance. He died from blood loss despite attempting to defend himself.

The attack left a deep mark on the driving community, and following the trial, Bringye’s family established Gabriel’s Campaign for Driver Safety, calling for stronger protections for private hire drivers and measures to prevent future tragedies.

According to the IWGB, drivers can work 12 to 18-hour days just to break even, covering fuel, insurance, vehicle maintenance, traffic fines and platform commission. Awaad highlighted a case where a Heathrow-to-central London ride cost £111 for the passenger, but the driver was paid only £29. “After expenses, many drivers are earning less than the minimum wage,” he told us.

He also criticised “upfront” or “dynamic pricing,” which sets fares for passengers and pays drivers via algorithms. Research from Oxford University found that Uber driver pay has declined since the model’s introduction. Under this system, drivers have no say over fares and can bear the cost of delays or route changes.

The protest follows the Supreme Court ruling that Uber drivers are workers, entitled to minimum wage and holiday pay. Awaad argues operators responded by adjusting pay structures in ways that reduced earnings. Uber has said it complies with the ruling and provides worker protections, including holiday pay, pensions and minimum earnings guarantees.

Beyond pay, safety remains a concern. Drivers report risks of assault and abuse, along with sudden account deactivation by operators. Awaad insists TfL, as the licensing authority, should oversee any suspension decisions. The union also wants stricter passenger identity checks after incidents involving stolen or fraudulent accounts.

Awaad’s attempts to raise these concerns directly with TfL Commissioner Andy Lord, including offering detailed evidence, were reportedly declined.

When The Mirror reached out to TfL, a spokesperson said: “We take our responsibilities as the licensing authority seriously to ensure that everyone can travel safely and reliably. Operators must meet high standards in order to be licensed in London and we continually keep licensing requirements under review to ensure safe services for Londoners.”

The IWGB is lobbying Parliament for legislative changes addressing pay transparency, commission levels, safety protections, and due process in account suspensions.

Alex Marshall, IWGB president, urged public support: “If drivers and riders unite, we can push TfL and the government to implement protections similar to New York, France, Mexico and Barcelona. Drivers deserve fair pay, capped hours, holidays and safety measures. The time for change is now.”

Responding to concerns around pay and transparency, an Uber spokesperson said: “We regularly engage with drivers, especially through our industry-leading agreement with GMB Union, who are not taking part in this action. More and more people choose to earn with Uber because we offer flexibility over where and when they work, as well as offering the best benefits in the sector.

“Drivers have transparency over every trip they take – including the destination and their earnings – before they decide whether to accept it. All drivers receive a weekly summary of their earnings, which includes a clear breakdown of what Uber and the driver received from trips,” the statement concluded.

Similarly, a Bolt spokesperson said the company operates a different model outside London. “Through Bolt Flex, the first model of its kind in the UK, drivers outside London can set their own fares, negotiate directly with passengers, and operate on a transparent, flat commission with no hidden fees. Drivers are already earning up to 7% more per trip on average, while receiving 24% more orders per hour.”

In response to safety concerns, Bolt added: “The safety of drivers is our top priority. We have committed €100 million globally to strengthen safety across our platform, contributing to a 14% reduction in safety-related incidents year over year.

“Drivers are provided with passenger ratings and ride history before pickup, can share live trip details with trusted contacts, and have access to 24/7 in-app and phone support. Our Emergency Assist button connects directly to emergency services and alerts Bolt’s 24/7 safety team, and our trip monitoring technology flags unexpected or prolonged stops. We also offer one of the sector’s most affordable CCTV schemes for drivers.

“Drivers on the Bolt platform operate as independent partners, and access is conditional on compliance with our safety and community standards. Accounts are only ever deactivated following a full investigation, with a clear review process. We will continue working with drivers to raise standards across the sector.”

The Mirror contacted Addison Lee for comment.

A MAJOR UK train station has closed for nine days as planned upgrades get underway.

Rail passengers can expect disruptions as the bustling travel hub undergoes a “once-in-a-lifetime overhaul”.

Network Rail is investing £8 million in an upgrade to Manchester Piccadilly train station in an effort to reduce future service disruptions.

Track and signalling upgrades are scheduled to take place from Saturday, 14 February to 22 February.

The southern approach to station, which was built in the 1980s, will see significant upgrades to a stretch of track.

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

ON TRACK

UK’s busiest train station FINALLY gets go ahead for £1.2billion expansion

AISLE GO

UK railway line to launch new trains with free water refills and reclining seats

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

Manchester Piccadilly has advised passengers that no trains from the south and east of the city will run into the station over the half-term break.

Some trains from across the north will also be impacted as well as direct connections to Manchester Airport station, which were impacted by a signal failure earlier this week.

Services normally running to and from Manchester Piccadilly will terminate at other stations, including Stockport, over the next nine days.

Platforms 1-12 will be closed but the concourse will remain open to the public, while there will be a limited service westbound from platforms 13 and 14.

Julien Dehornoy, Network Rail’s North West & Central deputy regional managing director, said: “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.”

Feb. 13 (Asia Today) — South Korean President Lee Jae-myung’s approval rating rose 5 percentage points from the previous week to 63%, marking his highest level this year, according to a poll released Thursday by Gallup Korea.

The survey of 1,003 adults nationwide, conducted Monday through Wednesday, found that 63% of respondents said Lee was “doing well” in handling state affairs.

Those who said he was “doing poorly” fell 3 percentage points to 26%, while 11% said they had no opinion.

Among reasons for positive evaluations, “economy and people’s livelihoods” ranked highest at 16%, followed by “real estate policy” at 11% and “foreign affairs” at 10%.

For negative evaluations, “real estate policy” and “economy and people’s livelihoods” were each cited by 15% of respondents. “Foreign affairs” accounted for 9%, while 7% cited concerns about “authoritarian leadership.”

Regionally, approval was highest in Gwangju and South Jeolla Province at 81%, followed by Daejeon, Sejong and South Chungcheong Province at 69%. Support stood at 63% in Busan, Ulsan and South Gyeongsang Province, 62% in Incheon and Gyeonggi Province and 58% in Seoul. Daegu and North Gyeongsang Province recorded the lowest approval at 49%.

By age group, support was strongest among respondents in their 40s at 75%, followed by those in their 50s at 70%, 30s at 66% and 60s at 65%. Approval among those 70 and older was 57%, while respondents ages 18 to 29 showed the lowest support at 39%.

Support for the Democratic Party rose 3 percentage points from the previous week to 44%, while backing for the People Power Party fell 3 percentage points to 22%.

The poll was conducted via telephone interviews using randomly selected mobile virtual numbers. It had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points at a 95% confidence level. The contact rate was 40.4% and the response rate was 13.3%.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260213010005002

This Valentine’s Day, chocolate prices are no longer at last year’s peak, but cheap chocolate has not made a comeback, and it probably never will. Last year’s cocoa price crisis, driven by a combination of extreme heat, drought and disease in key producing regions, may have eased. But the aftertaste remains: A market that no longer behaves the way it used to, because the landscapes that grow cocoa are no longer the same. And the world’s unwitting appetite for cheap chocolate at the expense of biodiversity is part of the reason.

Cocoa is one of the most rainfall-dependent crops in the tropics, grown mainly by smallholders with few safety nets. Because cocoa production is concentrated in a handful of regions, a bad season in one place can quickly ripple across global supply. That fragility was laid bare in 2024, when the Ivory Coast and Ghana, which produce nearly 60 percent of the world’s cocoa, were hit by climate extremes that slashed harvests. Prices surged by more than 300 percent, squeezing some farmers, enriching others, and leaving consumers paying for the uncertainty.

The problem is not simply that cocoa is vulnerable. It is that we have built a cocoa economy that magnifies the vulnerability. For decades, the world has chased low prices and high output, and too often that has meant converting forest landscapes into farmland, from West Africa to parts of Latin America and Southeast Asia.

But forests are not optional. They regulate rainfall, protect soils, and create the microclimates on which cocoa depends. Full-sun cocoa farms can produce higher yields in the short term, but the sugar rush is followed by a costly crash: Depleted soils, limited protection from heat and drought that is on the increase, and little for farmers to fall back on when the monocrops fail. Yields fall, farms expand deeper into forests to compensate, and the cycle repeats.

This is why cocoa’s price volatility is not a temporary blip. It is a warning sign: We are weakening the natural systems cocoa depends on at the same moment that climate change is making harvests less reliable.

Research by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) shows how extreme heat undermines agriculture, reducing both the quantity and quality of crop yields and increasing pest and disease pressure. A recent study modelling cocoa under mid-century climate change finds that warming could wipe out as much as a third to half of today’s suitable cocoa area in some core producing zones, while shifting production towards new regions. Without safeguards, that transition risks trading climate stress in one place for forest loss in another. The details will vary across regions, but the implication is global: As climate change alters weather patterns, the geography of cocoa production will shift, and a stable supply will become harder to take for granted.

Unless we build resilience now, future Valentine’s Days may come with less chocolate and higher prices.

But we can eat our chocolate and keep forests too, by changing how cocoa is grown. It starts with bringing trees back to cocoa farms, reversing the damaging practices that are ultimately undermining production. Change can be made through climate-resilient agroforestry practices that rebuild shade cover, improve soil health and moisture retention, and reduce cocoa’s exposure to heat and drought. Cocoa grown under shade trees can stabilise farm conditions and support biodiversity, while producing higher-quality beans that meet premium market standards, giving farmers stronger incentives to maintain tree cover rather than clear more land.

Sceptics argue that growing cocoa with trees means accepting lower yields. But when it comes to unsustainable practices, high productivity today comes with a high cost tomorrow. A farm that exhausts its soil, loses shade, is exposed to drought, and needs ever more chemical inputs to maintain production is not a success story. It is a trap.

In a changing climate, the point is not how much cocoa a farm can produce in a year, but how reliably it can produce year after year. That requires resilience built into the landscape, now more than ever: More tree cover, healthier soils, and diversified farm systems that protect livelihoods when climate extremes hit.

This is not theoretical. It is already happening.

In Ecuador’s Amazon province of Napo, a project financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and supported with technical assistance from the FAO has helped strengthen a sustainable cocoa value chain built around the traditional Chakra agroforestry system used by Kichwa communities. Put simply, it is cocoa grown as part of a forest garden: Kichwa women known as Chakramamas help steward these farms, cultivating cocoa under shade trees alongside a diverse mix of other crops and native plants, rather than clearing land for a single crop. Recognised by FAO as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System, the model is still expanding more than a decade on, helping Indigenous producer families earn more from premium cocoa through stronger processing, marketing, and partnerships with high-value buyers. High-end chocolatiers continue to source from Chakra producers, showing that cocoa grown alongside trees can deliver world-class quality while keeping forests standing for biodiversity, climate and land benefits.

There are more examples. In the Ivory Coast, FAO-backed efforts supported by the Green Climate Fund are already delivering results, restoring 1,084 hectares (2,679 acres) of degraded land and converting 3,527 hectares (8,715 acres) of conventional cocoa into improved agroforestry systems while reducing pressure on forests. Meanwhile, 234 farmers now have access to cocoa cooperatives, ensuring access to international fair-trade and organic certifications and a better price for their products. In Sao Tome and Principe, FAO has supported cocoa agroforestry through the GEF-funded Restoration Initiative, helping restore nearly 10,000 hectares (about 25,000 acres) of forest and improve land management across a further 23,000 hectares (about 57,000 acres). These are not boutique experiments. They are working models for stabilising supply, supporting farmer incomes, and reducing the forest loss that fuels cocoa’s growing volatility.

But projects alone will not be enough. Scaling them will take serious investment: From governments, companies, and consumers. It will also require rules that shift incentives across the entire cocoa economy, such as a new European Union law that requires cocoa and chocolate entering the EU market to be deforestation-free. By tying market access to how cocoa is grown, these rules are pushing governments, producers, and companies to rethink production models, improve traceability, and strengthen zero-deforestation cocoa systems.

Governments will also need to invest in farmer adaptation and long-term productivity, not just short-term output. That means accessible finance, practical support on farms, and policies that reward sustainable production instead of expansion into forests.

And chocolate companies need to promote resilience across their supply chains, not just chase volume. In a world of climate disruption, the cheapest cocoa is not necessarily the best bargain if it comes at the expense of farmers’ livelihoods or the ecosystems that keep cocoa viable in the years to come.

Paying farmers for chocolate that keeps forests standing is not a luxury. It is part of what makes cocoa more available and keeps farmers in business in a warming world. Chocolate is sold as a simple pleasure, but cocoa is no longer a simple crop: Its future depends on whether we treat forests and biodiversity as essential infrastructure for stable and resilient agrifood systems.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

The Night Agent season 3 trailer has left fans feeling disappointed.

The Night Agent fans have expressed their concern after the season three trailer featured a glaring absence.

Netflix’s popular spy thriller series The Night Agent is set to return on February 19 with its third season, once again starring Gabriel Basso as Peter Sutherland. This time around, Peter faces one of his most perilous missions yet as he works to uncover the truth behind a string of terrorist attacks.

The third instalment sees the return of several main cast members, including Fola Evans-Akingbola as Secret Service agent Chelsea Arrington and Amanda Warren as Catherine Weaver, Peter’s handler in Night Action. The new season also introduces Genesis Rodriguez as journalist Isabel and Stephen Moyer as an assassin known as The Father.

Netflix released a trailer in January which showed Peter seeking Isabel’s assistance in discovering who orchestrated the devastating events. Whilst grappling with his own internal struggles, he must contend with threats from ‘broker’ Jacob Monroe (Louis Herthum) as well as the enigmatic new assassin.

Whilst many fans were thrilled about the show’s return, a significant number have expressed concerns due to the absence of one key character. Luciane Buchanan, who played Rose Larkin, confirmed she would not be reprising her role following the show’s second season.

In the critically lauded season two finale, her character declared she was prepared to step back from her romantic entanglement with Peter, seeking the opportunity to embrace an ordinary existence free from danger. Viewers noticed her conspicuous absence from the season three trailer, prompting an outpouring of reactions in the comments section.

@BatrinaCoarPearsall expressed: “Peter and Rose’s trauma-bond is what makes this show so good.” @sherlina observed: “I feel like Rose and Peter’s bond and story were one of the main things setting this show different from other spy thrillers but now it seems like just any other spy themed shows with action but not really a story to tell.”

@tiu_forever6521 remarked: “Kinda looks like any other spy thriller without the Rose/Peter heart of it all at the core. Damn.” @ZayDaGoat1806 noted: “Without Rose it doesn’t feel the same people saying they couldn’t do her justice in this season but she’s more useful than a reporter.”

@MissFawlty lamented: “Miss Rose already! She was the show’s emotional core. Hope they bring her back big time if the show is renewed for season 4.” @Burner-g4e concluded: “What worked in season 1 was Peter’s personal motivations and determination and the relationship with Rose. Without that, this is just like every other action series. From this trailer, I feel like I’ve seen this a million times before. They’ve strayed so far from what made the show a success.”

However, fans are buzzing with anticipation for the show’s return, with @heptavian expressing: “Finally my favourite Netflix agents are back!” and @yoshikigrg8 chiming in: “Yes. I’m so glad this is happening. Really love this series.”

In September 2025, actress Buchanan confirmed she wouldn’t be making a comeback, revealing to Deadline during an interview about her series Chief of War: “As much as that show has been so amazing, especially for my career – being a lead on a U.S. show from little New Zealand was such a whirlwind.

“The writers decided that they wanted to follow Peter and his journey based on what happened at the end of season two. And so, we don’t get to see what happens to Rose, but I think it’s a really exciting time for the show, and who knows, it’s not a goodbye forever.”

Reflecting on the moment she received the news, she shared: “They [the creators] called me not so long after season two, and they were like, we’ve been trying to find a way to bring her in, but we want to do her character justice and not make her a sub-character.

“I totally respected that decision and agreed. I was like, if it makes sense to a story, I’ll do that. If it doesn’t, let’s not force that.”

The Night Agent season 3 is coming to Netflix on February 19

La Mirada finally got its breakthrough win in the Southern Section Open Division basketball playoffs on Friday night, going on the road to defeat St. John Bosco 56-53.

The Matadores (23-7) wanted to be in the Open Division playoffs last season and went 1-3, failing to make the state playoffs. They lost to Sherman Oaks Notre Dame on Wednesday, in a pool-play opener, ending their 14-game winning streak, then came back to inflict a rare home defeat on St. John Bosco in a pool play game. St. John Bosco had a chance to tie the score at the end but a three-point attempt failed.

Jordyn Houston led La Mirada with 22 points. St. John Bosco faces Notre Dame on Tuesday. La Mirada is in good position to claim second place in the pool and advance to the quarterfinals.

Harvard-Westlake 67, Damien 62: Joe Sterling finished with 22 points to help the Wolverines get back into the win column in an Open Division pool play game.

Corona Centennial 74, Etiwanda 48: The Huskies rolled to a win in their Open Division opener.

Crespi 82, Corona del Mar 70: The Celts faced a large, enthusiastic road crowd and won their first Open Division game. Isaiah Barnes scored 24 points and Jasiah Williams 23. Maxwell Scott scored 35 points for Corona del Mar.

JSerra 75, Loyola 46: Jaden Bailes scored 22 points in the Division 1 playoff victory.

Mater Dei 85, Westlake 59: It was another dominating win for the Monarchs in Division 2.

Rolling Hills Prep 63, Orange Lutheran 52: Josahn Webster, the son of King/Drew coach Lloyd Webster, contributed 23 points for Rolling Hills Prep.

Shalhevet 42, Palm Springs 41: Sam Jacobsen had the game-winning basket for Shalhevet in a Division 4-A game.

Venice 58, Sun Valley Poly 40: The Gondoliers advanced in the City Section Division I playoffs.

The fashion retailer is selling a budget-friendly backpack that could be ideal for travel

Primark is selling an attention-grabbing travel bag that looks similar to a pricier version. The fashion retailer is selling a £17 Roll Top Backpack that could be ideal for flights.

According to the product description, Primark has opted for a ‘roll-top backpack with zip-up sections.’ As such, airline passengers might choose to use the bag as cabin luggage, using the zipped sections to secure important documents and the roll-top design to keep the bag compact, given that many airlines impose size limits on luggage.

Fashion fans might also compare Primark’s yellow version of the backpack to a more expensive alternative. It arguably resembles the Eastpak Medium backpack with laptop sleeve in tarp yellow, which is currently on sale for £45.50 at London Luggage, marked down from £65.

Both designs include a roll-top backpack with a zip fastening, front pocket, and front zip, and the styles are offered in a near-identical colour. However, shoppers looking at the product images will quickly spot that there are some design differences, including the black base on the Primark bag that the pricier style lacks. There will, of course, also be differences in fabric and construction, as the backpacks come from different retailers.

Nonetheless, shoppers looking for a budget-friendly backpack could be impressed by the cheaper Primark option. Customers choosing between the styles will likely wish to compare the product images and descriptions offered by both brands.

While Primark does not offer a detailed product description for the backpack, which is made from polyester, there are several product images to browse on the brand’s website.

Shoppers interested in the backpack can purchase it for click and collect or use Primark’s website to check in-store availability at their nearest store. There are four different colour options, including navy, black, and a two-toned ecru design.

The product description for the Eastpak backpack states: “Get outdoor ready with our water-resistant top-loading backpack. This hard-wearing day pack is crafted from a durable top-coated fabric with statement black trims.

“Stash your laptop in the padded back compartment and store small valuables in the security pocket.” The description continues: “30 year warranty – Covered by our 30 year global warranty.

“Bottle Holder – Multifunctional side pocket which can be used as a bottle holder. 13″ Internal pocket to protect your 13″ device. Padded Back – Padded Back for extra comfort. Water Resistant – Made with a water resistant fabric.”

For shoppers with more room in their budget, another option at John Lewis could be the Samsonite Ecodiver Rolltop Large Cabin Backpack. The retailer sells the 35L backpack in yellow for £125.

The product description states: “Ecodiver sets a new standard within Samsonite’s casual assortment. This collection combines practicality with a stylish design and was developed with special attention to security and comfort. The water-resistant coating makes this range the perfect choice for all your outdoor adventures and endless strolling in the city.”

Nestled in Derbyshire, this charming village of fewer than 200 people boasts a stunning Jacobean manor house dating from 1609, traditional tearoom and a 13-mile scenic trail

This picturesque village has less than than 200 residents and has been carefully preserved to maintain its quintessentially English character and heritage.

Tissington stands out as the perfect postcard destination – a serene Derbyshire village offering visitors an incredibly tranquil escape. Dotted with charming cottages constructed around a magnificent Hall, complete with a duck pond and traditional tea rooms, the location exudes old-world appeal.

Its remarkable conservation is credited to the FitzHerbert family, who’ve maintained ownership for more than four centuries whilst remaining active members of the community. The affluent family resides at the Hall, which forms Tissington’s beating heart.

Their ancestral connection runs so profoundly through the area that the local church, St Mary’s, features numerous tributes to departed family members.

Best Derbyshire holiday cottage deals

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £32 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Derbyshire is known for its dramatic Peak District landscapes, historic market towns and stately country houses. Sykes Cottages has hundreds of places to stay, with prices from £32 per night.

Tissington Hall

Standing proud at the village centre is the stunning hall, originally constructed back in 1609 by Francis FitzHerbert as a Jacobean manor house. Sir Richard inherited the property in 1989 and currently lives there alongside his wife and their four children.

It holds distinction as one of merely 300 properties across Britain where direct descendants of the original builder still reside. Season after season, the family continues welcoming visitors to the estate, offering access to explore the magnificent interiors and spectacular flourishing gardens.

Entry currently costs £16 for adults, whilst children under five can access the grounds free of charge. The site welcomes visitors between 12pm and 3pm, with guided tours available every half hour by appointment.

Food and Drink

Tucked away in this charming village sits the beloved Herbert’s Tearoom, providing the perfect pit stop for ramblers and cyclists exploring the Peak District. The tearoom dishes up mouth-watering cakes alongside tea and coffee in a quintessentially British atmosphere, with seating available both inside and outdoors.

A satisfied visitor recently posted on TripAdvisor: “We love visiting this beautiful tea room for a light lunch, especially after a leisurely stroll around the peaceful and relaxing village. Excellent food, very pleasant and attentive staff, reasonable prices and consistently high standard of customer service.”

Though Tissington lacks a traditional countryside pub within its boundaries, several excellent spots can be found on the village outskirts. The Old Dog in nearby Thorpe prides itself on delivering ‘unfussy’ quality grub in a welcoming atmosphere, championing locally sourced produce.

Further along, guests can enjoy a meal at the Sycamore Inn in Parwich or pop in for a pint at the Coach and Horses in Ashbourne. Despite its tranquil, remote character, the village sits within easy reach of numerous superb Derbyshire dining spots.

Tissington Trail

Stretching 13 miles across the Peak District, the Tissington Trail has become a firm favourite with ramblers, following the path of a former railway line. The route is largely level, making it highly accessible, while still delivering breathtaking views and the chance to explore the charming village of Tissington.

Originally part of the London and North Western Railway connecting Buxton and Ashbourne from 1899, the line was eventually shut down. Nearly seven decades later, the Peak District National Park acquired the land and transformed it into the beloved trail, creating a vehicle-free haven for walkers and cyclists alike.

One visitor wrote: “We all went out as a family and had a brill day. The routes are well maintained and are fairly flat apart from the odd big hill. The scenery and views are stunning, and it’s not too busy.”

Another claimed: “We walked from Ashbourne to Tissington, and the route was lovely, with some great scenery. We particularly liked the old Tissington railway station, where we stopped for a picnic before wandering around the village and walking back again.”

This breathtaking abandoned village in North Cornwall is one of the most magical spots in the county, a real hidden gem with unmatched coastal views and a rich history.

A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it fishing village in North Cornwall, now better described as a tiny hamlet, boasts some of the most spectacular vistas Cornwall can offer – and that’s quite the claim given a third of the county holds designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status.

Nestled comfortably between its better-known neighbours – Port Isaac and Polzeath – this diminutive hamlet now falls largely under National Trust ownership. A peaceful ambience, stunning coastal panoramas, and abundant natural splendour – that’s how you’d characterise this small Cornish settlement.

Despite its modest proportions, it possesses a remarkably colourful history encompassing fishing, smuggling, mining, a devastating maritime tragedy, a wealthy man’s architectural whim, and even a stint as a filming location for the television adaptation of Winston Graham’s celebrated Poldark novels.

The now-abandoned hamlet of Port Quin derives its name from the Cornish words ‘porth’ meaning cove, and ‘gwynn’ meaning white – literally White Cove.

Tucked between imposing headlands, this compact hamlet forms a protected inlet with a substantial fishing heritage. Indeed, the scale of the old fish cellars (which remain visible in Port Quin today) suggests it was once a flourishing and prosperous fishing community on the Cornish coastline, reports Cornwall Live.

Save on the best holiday cottages in Cornwall

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £36 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Famous for its rugged coastline, golden beaches, picture-perfect villages and rich maritime heritage, Cornwall is one of the most-visited corner of the UK. Sykes Cottages has a large number of holiday homes to choose from, with prices from £36 per night.

Today, Port Quin boasts just a handful of holiday lets, all under the stewardship of the National Trust. The hamlet has seen virtually no modern construction over the centuries, remaining remarkably preserved from the march of time and urban sprawl.

Three local farms – Scarrabine, Trevigo, and Roscarrock – encircle Port Quin’s harbour, each managed by families from the area. The National Trust also maintains the fields surrounding this now-abandoned village.

Situated approximately two miles west of the busier Port Isaac, Port Quin is an enchanting, uninhabited cove blessed with untamed natural splendour and a dramatic, craggy coastline.

The village’s tragic legend

Port Quin has earned its reputation as the ‘village that died’, hiding a heartbreaking history.

Local folklore tells of a catastrophic Sunday night during the 19th century when, according to legend, all the village’s menfolk defied the Sabbath to go fishing, only to be caught in a ferocious storm that claimed every one of their lives.

Left without breadwinners, the village women found themselves unable to feed their families, compelling them to desert their homes and seek refuge with their children in nearby communities where they might find better opportunities.

This poignant story lives on in Frank Bramley’s 1888 painting ‘The Hopeless Dawn’, which is displayed at Tate Britain in London. A compact National Trust car park sits at Port Quin, typically visited by a mobile vintage café throughout the summer season.

Things to do in Port Quin

Port Quin’s protected inlet is celebrated as one of Cornwall’s finest locations for rock pooling, kayaking or angling, or simply taking a refreshing plunge in the Atlantic.

The cove is beloved by families, ideal for youngsters to safely paddle without the hassle of tourist hordes. Winter brings ferocious storms, however, making swimming at Port Quin inadvisable during those months.

Port Quin enjoys the advantage of being close to Port Isaac, Cornwall’s renowned fishing village, which brims with restaurants, welcoming pubs, and remarkably two Michelin-starred establishments within its compact confines – Outlaw’s New Road and Outlaw’s Fish Kitchen.

Run by chef Nathan Outlaw, the Outlaw venues are cherished by locals and tourists alike, all of whom rave about the delectable cuisine.

Nathan’s acclaimed flagship venue, Outlaw’s New Road, is nevertheless scheduled to close its doors on March 28 this year.

The shuttering will be swiftly followed by the launch of a fresh venture from the Michelin-starred chef – Outlaw’s Bistro, operating from the well-loved Outlaw’s Guest House located directly opposite.

The South West Coast Path runs straight through Port Quin and provides walkers with an enchanting stretch of pristine coastline, exceptional even by Cornwall’s remarkably elevated standards. A stunning three-and-a-half-mile coastal ramble stretches from Port Quin to Port Isaac, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Rollercoaster’ due to its challenging landscape.

With sections that are extremely steep, walkers are urged to take care and ensure they’re properly kitted out and ready for the trek.

Yet the vistas along this route are utterly spectacular, and those who venture along it will catch a splendid glimpse of Doyden Castle, a 19th-century folly that’s been transformed into a National Trust holiday let.

Doyden Castle is a compact but impressive fortress standing at the cliff’s edge on the isolated Port Quin headland, backed by sweeping ocean panoramas.

Built in 1830 by a local entrepreneur as a private getaway (essentially: a venue for gambling and revelry), today Doyden Castle operates as a delightful one-bedroom holiday cottage brimming with historical treasures.

Gothic arched windows, a welcoming open fireplace, and the original wine storage in the cellar all contribute to its irresistible appeal.

Famous connections

Port Quin and several neighbouring spots have featured in well-known films and television programmes.

During the 1970s, Quin House in the village served as a filming location for the inaugural series of the BBC’s Poldark, whilst Doyden Castle was employed to depict a gatehouse. Roscarrock and its magnificent surroundings also made appearances on the beloved series.

During the 1980s, Doyden Castle served as a filming location for an adaptation of the celebrated classic novel Jamaica Inn. The castle and Port Quin also appeared in the 1997 film Swept from the Sea.

In 2011, the iconic Doyden Castle was featured as Pentire Castle in ITV’s popular series Doc Martin.