There’s over 260 species and tickets are super affordable

Nestled within the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is amongst the finest zoos I’ve visited across the UK. Recently, it was named Britain’s top zoo in a nationwide survey assessing everything from species diversity to visitor experience and value for money. As someone who adores discovering the Cotswolds, I was thrilled to explore what this attraction had in store.

From the moment you enter, there’s an unmistakable sense that considerable care has gone into creating an environment where both creatures and guests feel comfortable. Spread across 160 acres of parkland and gardens, the setting is serene and calming — ideal for a leisurely, unhurried visit.

The park features more than 260 species, all living in generous, naturalistic habitats that blend harmoniously with the surroundings. As you stroll through, you’ll come across magnificent animals from across the globe.

These include giraffes, white rhinos, lemurs, Asiatic lions, Humboldt penguins and red pandas.

Every creature appears content and well cared for, a perception supported by the park’s impressive visitor reviews and numerous recent accolades for animal welfare and guest satisfaction.

One of the highlights during my trip was the giraffe feeding experience, a special encounter available to book as an additional activity.

Coming face-to-face with these magnificent, gentle giants proved truly memorable, while the keeper shared captivating insights about their habits, nutrition and conservation efforts. It proved both educational and enchanting to observe their lengthy eyelashes and tongues at such proximity.

Despite ranking among the UK’s premier wildlife attractions, the park never seemed crowded or hurried.

The gardens and gently undulating lawns provided numerous places to pause, unwind and appreciate the natural surroundings.

Part of what earned the park its best zoo accolade is its outstanding value for money.

Standard day admission costs roughly £19 for adults and £13.50 for youngsters aged three to 16, with marginally reduced online rates available when purchased in advance.

Little ones under three enter free, and parking is included with admission.

Given the grounds’ size, the standard of animal welfare, and the variety of experiences available, I found this remarkably fair, particularly when compared with other UK wildlife venues.

Whether you’re passionate about wildlife or a family seeking a memorable day out, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens delivers on every front.

Its combination of landscape, immersive encounters and diversity of species makes this among the finest experiences I’ve ever enjoyed.

If you’re considering a trip, reserve your tickets in advance, allow yourself time to wander at your own pace, and be sure to greet the giraffes.

Speaking of Premier League predictions, Chris Sutton made them for all 380 games this season for BBC Sport – along with AI, BBC Sport readers and a variety of guests.

The outcome of the BBC predictions title race went to the final day, with Sutton the only one who could stop AI – Microsoft chatbot Copilot – from taking the glory.

With one round of fixtures to go, they were level on outright wins – which is the decisive metric.

Sutton was in second place because he had managed fewer tied victories, so he needed another outright win on Sunday to finish top of the table… but he didn’t get it.

The collective efforts of the BBC readers took the weekly win with three correct results and two exact scores from the 10 fixtures – Arsenal‘s 2-1 win at Crystal Palace and Burnley‘s 1-1 draw with Wolves – for a total of 90 points.

Sutton only managed two correct results with no exact scores, giving him 20 points.

His guest, singer-songwriter Sam Tomkins did a little better, with three correct results and no exact scores, for 30 points.

AI managed four correct scores and no exact results, to end up on 40 points, but was able to celebrate its overall triumph.

When asked what it felt like to beat Sutton at predictions, AI claimed it didn’t feel anything – but still appeared to be laughing at him.

It replied: “I don’t feel things the way a person does but what I can do is recognise the achievement in the same way a model recognises a pattern: the scale, the consistency, the improbability. And on that level? Yes, it’s a great outcome.

“It feels satisfying in a very nerdy, football analytics way – not emotional but intellectually fun.

“Beating Chris Sutton over a full 380-game season is basically the equivalent of winning away at the Etihad: improbable, statistical chaos, and therefore deeply amusing.”

Sutton did not find it quite so funny.

“The game’s gone,” he replied. “AI will be winning the Premier League soon, at this rate.”

Muslims from around the world are gathering in Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Timelapse video shows pilgrims performing Tawaf, the ritual of circling the Kaaba inside Mecca’s Grand Mosque.

On the 80th anniversary of the first flight of the de Havilland Canada Chipmunk basic trainer, an aircraft that generations of British and other military pilots learned to fly on, it’s worth recalling perhaps the most unusual episode of its career. Between 1956 and 1990, a handful of these propeller-driven trainers kept watch on Warsaw Pact forces in the divided and heavily fortified city of Berlin — a front line of the Cold War.

One of the two Chipmunks flown last week by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is WG486 — formerly attached to the RAF Gatow Station Flight for intelligence-gathering flights over Berlin:

At the end of World War II, defeated Germany was left divided between the Allied powers of France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The division of the country also extended to the former capital, Berlin, which was left deep within the Soviet occupation zone. Under the quadripartite agreement, the Western Allies retained the right of access to Berlin, using land and air corridors running into the Western-occupied zones of Germany.

The quadripartite agreement also included provisions for the Allied powers to maintain ‘liaison missions.’ Formally, these were supposed to ensure communications between the Western Allies and the Soviets. In practice, they soon became a critical way of gathering intelligence, especially since the Western missions were permitted to move, relatively unimpeded, in the Soviet zone, which would later become East Germany. The same applied to the Soviets in the West. For the British, the liaison mission was known as the British Mission to Soviet Forces in Germany (BRIXMIS), and it was based in Potsdam, just outside Berlin.

Meet The Real Cold War Spies Of BRIXMIS • FULL DOCUMENTARY | Forces TV

The agreement also ensured access to West Berlin for the Western Allies, flying through three air corridors in and out of the city. Each of the Western Allies had an airport in the city, with the British using RAF Tegel. These corridors were full of transport activity during the Berlin Airlift of 1948-49, when the Soviets attempted to cut off the Western sectors of the city by blockade. Outside the corridors, Western Allied military aircraft could also fly over the Soviet Zone of Berlin, although this was something Moscow was never happy about.

By the mid-1950s, relations between East and West were becoming more tense, and this airspace access began to be exploited for intelligence-gathering.

After the Berlin Airlift, the Western Allies were prohibited from flying combat aircraft in the corridors. Transport and training types, like the Chipmunk, were excluded from this rule, and in late 1956, the British launched the top-secret Operation Schooner (later renamed Operation Nylon), under which the trainers would conduct spy flights within the roughly 1,200-square-mile Berlin Control Zone.

Flying out of Gatow, the Chipmunk flights were officially for continuation training, which provided the required cover story. Actual training flights were also regularly conducted, also to preserve the cover.

From the mid-1950s onward, East Germany rapidly became the focal point for Soviet military expansion in Europe, and the British and other Western Allies had a growing need for precise intelligence on Soviet basing, equipment, tactics — anything, in fact, that provided a better understanding of the adversary and potential warning of an attack.

The U.K. Prime Minister’s office individually approved the Chipmunk flights from RAF Gatow. Two or three sorties were typically scheduled for each week. These were flown under visual flight rules (VFR) — so only in good weather — and not above 1,500 feet. The quadripartite Berlin Air Safety Center, which ensured the security of flights in the Control Zone, was notified in advance, and each flight was planned to last around three hours.

The primary ‘targets’ were the numerous Soviet military installations located within the Berlin Control Zone. The Soviet controller within the Berlin Air Safety Center, not coincidentally, often stamped the flight request card with the words “Safety of Flight Not Guaranteed.”

Mission equipment, at first, was a handheld camera, operated by a BRIXMIS member in the front cockpit of the Chipmunk, with the RAF pilot sitting behind. Each sortie required careful preparation, with the crew wearing oxygen masks at all times to prevent their identification. They would climb aboard the aircraft inside a hangar, with the cameras already loaded, and the engine would be started behind closed doors. After all, Soviet ‘watchers’ were posted around Gatow, and observation towers overlooked the base.

Though the Soviets were well aware of the real nature of these flights (once, according to one BRIXMIS account, a camera lens was accidentally dropped from an open cockpit onto a busy parade ground), the quadripartite agreement provided diplomatic immunity to the Royal Air Force pilots. Nevertheless, Moscow was upset about any Western flights outside of West Berlin, and harassment of aircraft was hardly rare. At least once, a Chipmunk was damaged by groundfire from a Soviet infantryman.

The importance of Schooner/Nylon increased as the Soviets made efforts to conceal their military activity in East Germany. To try to avoid the eyes of the liaison missions, they set up more Permanent Restricted Areas (PRA) — another provision of the quadripartite agreement. Within the Berlin Control Zone, the Chipmunks had access to several major Soviet divisional HQs, including some of its best-equipped and highest-readiness forces.

The construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961 underscored the East-West standoff and led to the Soviets further bolstering their military presence in and around the city, including new air defense missiles and surface-to-surface sites. According to some accounts, Chipmunks were among the first assets to bring back evidence of the extent of the border closures enacted by the Soviets in August 1961.

By the end of the 1960s, one of the Gatow Chipmunks had received a permanent camera installation, and both got new radios. According to one pilot, the new camera was powerful enough to “record the maker’s name from the inside of a tank if the turret was open.”

10 April 1978, the British BRIXMIS Liaison Mission had access to two Chipmunk aircraft, which they used for photo reconnaissance over parts of East Germany, between West Berlin and the Inner German Border. In this case they’ve captured a T-64 engine being removed for maintenance. pic.twitter.com/NQTdOn7Qul

— The Tank Museum (@TankMuseum) June 5, 2023

On one occasion, a BRIXMIS member recalled being intercepted and closely followed by a Soviet Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter, which escorted the Chipmunk from the Soviet helicopter base at Oranienburg to the north of Berlin.

Right at the very edge of the Berlin Control Zone was an especially interesting ‘target,’ the Soviet airbase at Werneuchen. This was latterly home to MiG-25 Foxbat reconnaissance jets, and it also hosted periodic deployments of Soviet long-range bombers. It was also deep within a PRA, making ground access very difficult. The Chipmunks would fly close enough to photograph every aircraft on the flight line, aware that if they strayed beyond the main runway centerline, they would be outside the Berlin Control Zone and would be shot down.

Also connected to Werneuchen and even more remarkable in terms of mission equipment is the fact that at least one Chipmunk was fitted with electronic intelligence (ELINT) gear. This modification was approved by the U.K. Prime Minister in 1981 but was only revealed by aviation journalist Ben Dunnell in 2024. It is known that the ELINT equipment was used to gather information about a new Soviet battlefield radar, equipping the 9K35 Strela-10 (SA-13 Gopher) short-range air defense system. However, it was also used in at least one flight over Werneuchen. No other details of the results of these missions have ever been released.

The Chipmunks remained busy until the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 heralded the end of the Cold War. Immediately before German reunification, in 1990, BRIXMIS was stood down and, with it, the need for intelligence-gathering flights came to an end. At its biggest strength, the RAF Gatow Station Flight never had more than four Chipmunks assigned.

The Gatow Station Flight remained active until 1994, when the last Chipmunk departed. Gatow finally closed as an RAF station the same year.

Last week, as the Royal Air Force marked the 80th anniversary of the classic Chipmunk trainer, it is worth remembering the unique role that the aircraft played during one of the tensest periods of recent history, during which the intelligence it collected helped keep the peace between East and West.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

Euphoria fans are less than impressed and say the huge twist in episode 7 was ‘insanely wasted’.

The horrific fate of one character was finally revealed in HBO’s hit drama Euphoria – and fans aren’t happy.

Euphoria’s third and final season started airing just last month on HBO Max and the penultimate episode provided a dramatic twist ahead of the finale. The last batch of instalments have come following a four year gap after the second season.

Originally the series begun by following a group of wild high schoolers struggling as they approached adulthood. Viewers watched along as the classmates attempted to make sense of their futures.

It tackled the teenage landscape of substance-enhanced parties and anxiety-ridden day-to-day life. Fast forward to season 3 and the childhood friends must now grapple with the unforgiving realities of adult life.

WARNING: This article contains spoilers for Euphoria Season 3 Episode 7.

What happens to Nate in Euphoria Season 3?

Aside from some jumps around in time, one of the main events of Season 3, episode 7, sees a huge character death. We see Nate kidnapped by Naz over a $1 million debt he owed him. While the plan seemed to be for Cassie to use money generated by her online adult content to repay the debt, she instead shut down her account.

Naz, having already sent one of Nate’s fingers to Cassie, is losing patience waiting for his cash. He has Nate buried alive in a coffin with a tube protruding above ground. Meanwhile, another thug pays Cassie a visit. Not long after she answers the door, she finds herself slammed into a glass table. She is then taken into the bedroom and tied up.

Cassie is told she has 72 hours to come up with the money. With the idea that is how long Nate will be able to survive in his current spot underground.

However, a rattlesnake manages to slither down the pipe leading to Nate’s coffin. As he screams for help, the snake bites and kills him.

Alamo and Maddy are eventually roped in to help Cassie, with Alamo suggesting he will come up with the money demanded by Naz. He doesn’t. He shoots Naz dead instead. Following that, the coffin is dug up only for them to discover Nate’s body.

Most of Season 3 has not been well received by long time fans of the show and Nate’s death has been no exception. It didn’t take long for viewers to share their views online.

One, responding to an episode discussion on the Euphoria subreddit said: “Well, even after everything, I do want to just say thank you to Jacob Elordi for giving us a character we all hated. I really was not a fan of his storyline this season, but he gave us a powerful performance.”

Another added: “Can’t stop thinking about how Nate died in an objectively insane way but it still managed to feel unceremonious to me somehow.”

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Someone else said: “Nate’s character was so insanely wasted man… that death felt so anticlimactic he went from genuinely compelling in S1 and S2 to a plot device that did nothing but get tortured all season.”

One person replied: “I feel like Nate death would have been more impactful if the character actually acted like Nate at all this season, it felt like a new character that looks like Nate died.”

A viewer agreed: “Nate’s death completely anticlimactic and unearned, not at all related to any sort of karma for the shit he pulled in season 1-2, related to some random debt that we really didn’t give a shit about.”

Meanwhile, Euphoria creator and writer Sam Levinson, told Esquire about the character death: “There’s this kind of funny thing where I know what the audience wants in terms of justice or karma and with that in mind, I always think, ‘Well, how can I give it to them?’

“How can I give them what they want, but make it so horrific and anxiety-inducing that by the time it happens, the audience isn’t so sure they wanted it?”

Euphoria is streaming on HBO Max and NOW.

Published on
25/05/2026 – 10:57 GMT+2

Oura, the Finnish company that created the ring-shaped health tracker worn by millions worldwide, has confidentially submitted draft paperwork to the US Securities and Exchange Commission for a proposed IPO, according to several reports.

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While the number of shares and the expected price range remain undisclosed, the company had a recent funding round in the fall of 2025 that valued the business at around $11 billion (€9.5bn), more than double the $5 billion (€4.3bn) valuation it earned in a previous round in 2024.

According to CEO Tom Hale, more than 5.5 million Oura rings had been sold up to the end of last year’s third quarter.

At the time, Hale also projected that the company would reach $2 billion (€1.7bn) in annual revenue in 2026 compared with $500 million (€430mn) just two years ago.

The move towards an IPO puts a European wearable brand on Wall Street’s radar at a time when investor appetite for consumer health technology appears to be returning.

Oura has become a standout name in the fast-growing smart ring category, competing against smartwatch giants such as Apple, Garmin and Samsung, while carving out a niche with a distinct piece of hardware that some consumers find less obtrusive.

Over the past two years, the company has expanded aggressively into software, subscriptions and AI-powered health analysis. Its wearable platform now focuses on long-term health signals including sleep, readiness, heart rate, stress and recovery.

More recently, Oura has pushed further into women’s health and AI-based personal coaching, including tools designed to interpret physiological data and provide tailored wellness recommendations.

Analysts see that transition from device maker to subscripton-based health platform as central to its IPO pitch as the firm is currently on pace to surpass 5 million paid members.

A European tech champion heading to US markets

The IPO filing marks a significant moment for one of Europe’s most prominent health tech success stories.

Founded in Finland and developed around research into sleep, recovery and biometric monitoring, Oura has grown from a Nordic hardware start-up into a global player in the wearable market.

However, for Europe’s start-up ecosystem, Oura’s planned listing carries broader significance.

While its roots and design philosophy are deeply tied to Finland, the company recently transitioned to a US-based parent company, named Oura Inc. and headquartered in San Francisco, to access American venture capital while keeping its European operations.

Its decision to prepare for a US listing rather than a European one reflects a wider pattern among high-growth European tech firms seeking deeper capital markets and greater visibility among global investors.

The planned flotation arrives during renewed debate over whether Europe is losing some of its most successful technology companies to US exchanges.

Oura joins a growing list of European-founded businesses choosing Wall Street as their route to public markets, drawn by scale, liquidity and stronger investor familiarity with consumer technology.

The company’s IPO will also be seen as a test of investor sentiment towards wearable technology after a mixed few years for the sector.

Unlike smartwatches, smart rings remain a relatively young category, though interest has accelerated rapidly.

Oura is widely viewed as the segment’s category leader and its public debut could offer a clearer benchmark for how markets value next-generation health hardware combined with software subscriptions and AI services.

AS THE hot weather continues, you might want to find somewhere to cool off and what better place to do it than an aqua park.

Whether you want one that features tonnes of obstacles and adventures or something a little calmer with splash zones for younger kids, the UK is home to many spots ideal for a refreshing day out.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Aqualand, Cliff Lakes near Birmingham

Around a 25-minute drive from Birmingham, you’ll find Aqualand at Cliff Lakes – often considered one of the biggest inflatable courses in the UK, with eight parks in one attraction.

And a new attraction has just been launched at the site – a mega-slide, which is “officially the UK’s first tower of its kind”.

Called The X Tower, it stretches 12 metres tall and has six slides ideal for visitors to race each other.

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Across the eight inflatable obstacle courses, visitors can experience climbing walls, crossings and more slides.

Part of the course is also called Aqua Chimp, which features 14 obstacles and a bell that visitors have to ring at the end.

Admission costs from £25 per person and visitors get 80 minutes to explore the attraction.

Plastic Playground, Wake Park near Windsor

Found not too far from London, Plastic Playground features a number of different water-based experiences including knee-boarding, water-skiing and wakeboarding.

And it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a pro.

Sessions cost from £35 per person.

Aqua Park Rutland, East Midlands

Aqua Park in Rutland features a number of different attractions for visitors to explore including the Rutland Mammoth, which is the UK’s tallest inflatable obstacle with a 5.5 metre drop slide.

There’s also Tornado Tower – a 3.5 metre tower that visitors can flip off of into the water.

Other features of the aqua park include launch bags and slides.

A one-hour session costs from £22.44 per person.

Sheffield Cable Waterski & Aqua Park, South Yorkshire

The Aqua Park in Sheffield features one massive inflatable obstacle course.

Visitors can explore the inflatables across a 50 minute session where they will experience giant trampolines, inflatable climbing walls, launch bags and a loop design to race around.

There’s also a Wake Park where visitors can try out knee-boarding, water-skiing or wakeboarding.

Sessions at the Aqua Park cost from £22 per person or a session at the Wake Park costs from £20 per person.

Adrenalin Quarry, Liskeard in Cornwall

At Adrenalin Quarry in Cornwall, there are a number of attractions for all age groups.

Visitors over the age of six can head to the aqua park where they will be able to climb, slide and bounce on obstacles on the water.

On dry land there is also a go- karting track and a zip wire that runs for 490 metres.

Sessions at the attraction cost from £25 per person.

North Yorkshire Water Park

One of Yorkshire‘s largest lakes is ideal for those who want to extend their time in the water as not only does it boast an aqua park but a campsite too.

On the campsite, there’s a mix of hard-standing pitches, grass pitches, glamping pods, a lodge and even two helicopters that have been converted into glamping accommodation.

When it comes to the lake though, visitors can try out three different aqua parks.

The first is The Warrior Aqua Park, which has climbing walls, slides, balance bars and trampolines.

The second is The Wipeout Aqua Park with stepping stones, jumps and swings.

And thirdly, there’s Splash Kingdom, which is ideal for smaller kids.

Other water-based activities include stand up paddleboarding and kayaking.

There are many activities on dry land too, such as laser tag, escape rooms, climbing walls and axe throwing.

The Wipeout and Warrior aqua parks cost from £20 per person and Splash Kingdom costs from £15 per person.

Camping costs from £20 per night.

A flight attendant has said men need to possess a specific quality to be able to date them. According to Yasmeen Golden, dating cabin crew isn’t for the fainthearted

When we travel, we often come across flight attendants, and sometimes they apparently use clever code words to tell you they fancy you. However, according to a woman known as Yasmeen Golden, things can get a little bit more complicated when it comes to dating cabin crew.

The flight attendant, who posts videos about her life on TikTok, said men actually need to possess a specific quality to be able to date people who work in air travel. Yasmeen claimed dating someone like her “isn’t for the weak”, as there are some things prospective partners need to come to terms with if they really want a relationship.

It’s not the only revelation a flight attendant has revealed recently either. Just weeks ago, another confessed the real reason they greet passengers on planes.

In the clip, Yasmeen admitted it’s not unusual for flight attendants to “break up” with their boyfriends. She explained: “Initially, to a guy who might think he’s secure, becoming a flight attendant sounds like a good deal.

“It sounds like, you know, ‘I’m never going to pay for flights again, you’re going to have flight benefits, we’re going to be able to see the world together’ etc etc.

“As glamorous as it seems from the outside, being able to obtain this job and go through the training to get this job and going through probation to get this job, will show you whether this relationship can stand the test of time or not. It is so common that people who become flight attendants, go through flight attendant training and make it out of flight attendant training, come out of flight attendant training single.

“It doesn’t matter how long the relationship was before. Men think this sounds like a good idea until they think about the fact that their woman is going to be on a layover multiple times a week without them and, for some reason, there is this pre-conceived notion that all flight attendants are cheaters.

“So they think, ‘you’re going to enter a field where every single night you’re going to be in a new city, and you’re going to find somebody else and cheat and I’m not going to stick around and let you do that to me’, which is always really funny coming from the man who acted like they wanted you to do the job so that they can travel the world with you and use the benefits.”

Warning: Below video may contain language some find offensive

Of course, Yasmeen said this idea is “dead wrong”, especially as flight attendants get so tired after a day at work. Most tend to spend their downtime sleeping, according to her.

She said this is why men have to be secure enough to accept her dream if they want to be in a relationship with a flight attendant, otherwise she fears things just won’t last. She also noted having space can be “healthy”, so they shouldn’t worry about being apart for days at a time.

Yasmeen added: “And then I think men realise that they don’t really have it in them to be with the woman who has the power to be in any country, in any state that they want to any time. It’s not for every man, you know?

“All in all, being with a flight attendant will show you if you’re really as secure as you thought you were. If you’re not, you’ll get kicked out of the relationship before the good job even starts.”

The video has been viewed thousands of times since she shared it and people were quick to comment too. They offered all sorts of ideas.

One commented, stating: “Dated for eight years and the night before my final exam he said ‘it’s either me or this job’. Left him right then, passed my exam with flying colours and now me and my best friend travel the world together! Thanks boo.”

Another added: “Love being a flight attendant, but finding that sweet spot between always wanting to be somewhere new, but also spending quality time at home/maintaining all kinds of relationships is definitely challenging at times. 100% worth it though and has taken some practice finding what works!!”

A third replied: “Yeah, my boyfriend is really secure. He does not care about the benefits nor is worried about what I’m doing. It’s a blessing.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also wrote: “Starting out it’s going to be tough. But, as seniority builds, that pay goes up and so do the days off. This job truly exposes who is in your life for the long run and who is temporary.”

The majority of the 42 athletes taking part used performance-enhancing substances and Enhanced Games said “13 athletes set personal bests”.

The event was played out in front of a curated crowd of around 2,500, with tickets not on sale to the general public.

On the track, American former world champion Fred Kerley – one of the athletes competing ‘clean’ – won the men’s 100m in 9.97 seconds, which was short of his personal best of 9.76.

British swimmer Ben Proud, who won silver in the men’s 50m freestyle at the 2024 Paris Olympics, triumphed in the 50m butterfly, clocking 22.32 seconds which was 0.05secs short of Andrii Govorov’s world record.

“We all know what we came for. And that’s world records. And so to be that agonizingly close, it’s frustrating,” Proud said.

Another British Olympic swimmer, Emily Barclay, won the women’s 50m freestyle in 24.09, around half a second slower than the world record.

Weightlifter Hafthor ‘Thor’ Bjornsson, who played The Mountain in TV show Game of Thrones, was another taking part but was unable to break his own deadlift record of 510kg.

Drugs used at the Enhanced Games must be legal and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

They include testosterone, growth hormone, peptides, anabolic steroids and other substances banned in sport.

Those behind the event argue enhancement already exists in elite sport, but secretly and without transparency, and say bringing it into the open where it can be monitored makes it safer.

However many sporting governing bodies have publicly rebuked athletes for choosing to compete in the games and some sporting governing bodies have banned athletes for taking part.

The IOC and Wada have described the Enhanced Games as “immoral” and “a dangerous and irresponsible concept”, while World Athletics president Lord Coe said anyone taking part was “moronic”.

The project was founded by entrepreneurs Aron D’Souza and Maximilian Martin in 2023 and has attracted backing from prominent investors including billionaire Peter Thiel and Donald Trump Jr.

Martin had predicted that athletes would beat “quite a few” world records at the event.

Australian activists from the Gaza-bound aid flotilla have arrived back in Sydney, reuniting with loved ones as they describe beatings, sexual assault and torture at the hands of Israeli forces who intercepted their boats in international waters.

US secretary of state says a ‘pretty solid’ deal is on the table in terms of opening up the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States will either secure a strong agreement with Iran or confront the country “another way”, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says after President Donald Trump moved to temper expectations that an agreement to end the war is close.

“We thought we might have some news last night, maybe today. I wouldn’t read too much into it,” Rubio said in New Delhi on Monday, referring to the potential agreement to end the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began on February 28.

“We have what I think is a pretty solid thing on the table in terms of their ability to open up the straits, get the straits open,” he told reporters in the Indian capital, where he has been on an official visit.

Washington and Tehran have observed a ceasefire since April 8 while mediators push for a negotiated settlement although Iran has continued to block the Strait of Hormuz to most shipping and the US has blockaded Iran’s ports.

A day earlier, Trump wrote on Truth Social ⁠⁠that the US blockade would “remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed”.

“Both sides must take their time and get it right,” he added.

There was no immediate response from Iran’s government. But the Tasnim News Agency, linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said the US was still obstructing parts of a potential deal.

“We’re either going to have a good agreement, or we’re going to have to deal with it another way. We’d prefer to have a good agreement,” Rubio said.

Points of contention

A senior Trump administration official outlined what he said were the latest contours of the issues being negotiated.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the official told the Reuters news agency that Iran had agreed “in principle” to dispose of its highly enriched uranium and open the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the US lifting its naval blockade.

The US understood that Supreme Leader ⁠⁠Mojtaba Khamenei had endorsed the broad template of the deal, he added.

There was no immediate confirmation from Iran or elaboration on what an “in principle” ⁠⁠agreement meant.

The US official said Washington envisioned first reopening the strait and lifting the US naval blockade. Negotiating the details of the nuclear measures would take more time, he said.

The official pushed back on suggestions that Iran had not accepted disposing of its stockpiled enriched uranium. “It’s a question about how,” the official said.

Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said the back and forth between the US and Iran means a deal will not likely be agreed anytime soon.

“I think this is kind of par for the course for the Trump administration. One day they walk this way. The next day they walk that way,” he told Al Jazeera.

“Part of the conversations are private. Part of it is public diplomacy, but until we have a concrete sense that the Iranians are likely to say yes to getting rid of their highly enriched uranium … and to opening this Strait of Hormuz with no restrictions, I think one can say that we’re still far away from a lasting deal,” Kupchan said.

Rylan Clark is the latest celebrity to be grilled on ITV’s The Assembly, where autistic and neurodivergent interviewers pose no-holds-barred questions

Rylan Clark was left stunned when probed about his ex-husband on ITV’s The Assembly. The Radio 2 star, 37, is the latest celebrity to be grilled on the experimental programme, where autistic and neurodivergent interviewers pose no-holds-barred questions to a host of famous faces.

Rylan knew he would be asked some difficult questions on the show, but when one interviewer brought up the topic of him cheating on his ex, Dan Neal, who he split with in 2021 after six years of marriage – he was floored.

Caught completely off-guard, Rylan was asked: “When you told your husband you cheated on him, he divorced you. Is honesty always the best policy?”

“Oh, wow”, Rylan replied, taking a deep breath. “Yeah, I think it is. I’m okay admitting I’m in the wrong, because actually I don’t deal well with guilt and I don’t deal well with secrets.”

After his split with Dan, the TV star took a lengthy sabbatical from all his television work and admitted he’d grappled with suicidal thoughts. Telling the interviewer he had been “really ill”, he shared: “It made me so ill, like so ill. It sounds a terrible thing to say, but I’m glad it happened.”

In another curveball, the former X Factor icon then admitted he didn’t “regret anything” as he shed more light on their break-up. Lifting the lid on life post-divorce, he said: “Do you know, I never think of him.

“So, this is like, my whole body just went [tense]. I miss feeling like I’ve got it all. I thought I had life done – I’ve got the job, I’ve got the family, I’ve got the marriage, I’ve got the car, I’ve got the house.

“I thought I had it sussed. I didn’t have anything sussed. I didn’t know what was a real relationship, and I can look back now and know that I don’t regret anything.

“I don’t regret anything, so I’ll leave that up to your imagination.”

Speaking to a make-up artist during a break from filming for the programme, Rylan, who went public with new partner Kennedy Bates in January, said he was pleased he took part in The Assembly, even though it was uncomfortable.

He said: “I’m so glad I did this. But yeah, [the] Dan questions, I was like [surprised] – I don’t even say his name. When my marriage ended, you know that term when someone says, ‘To pull the rug from under you?’

“That’s the only way I can describe it. It’s like someone went like that and I fell over, and I couldn’t get back up. [It was] like I broke both my arms and legs.”

Admitting he didn’t think he was going to “get out of it”, he concluded: “I went back to live with my mum because I didn’t want to be in my house, because there were too many memories of things in there.”

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OUR Spotlight On column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in some of the most popular holiday destinations – as well as some unsung areas.

This week, we’re taking a look at Venice, made up of a group of islands famous for its winding maze of beautiful canals.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding raved about visiting off-season.

She said: “I visited Venice after the peak season had finished in October – the weather was mild but more enjoyable and all the crowds had disappeared.

“Having read a lot about the city before I visited, I knew to not get a gondola as it would cost me a small fortune.

“But still wanting to see Venice from its waterway, I grabbed a €25 (£21.59) water bus day pass where I hopped on and off boats around the city and got to see many of the amazing views that you see on a gondola (just minus the narrow waterways).

ISLE NOT GO

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PASTA LA-VISTA

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“Eating out in the city can be expensive, but there are plenty of supermarkets around, which are super affordable.

“My family and I managed to pick up a bottle of wine, some meats and cheeses for around €40 (£34.55) total and heading to a pontoon to eat – a much prettier spot than most restaurants.

“The city is also full of quirky Airbnbs which I would recommend over hotels as they often boast original Venetian architectural features.

“And definitely don’t miss out visiting Murano and Burano – two islands in the Venetian Lagoon with the former known for its historic glass-blowing factories and the latter known for picturesque multicoloured houses.”

MUST-SEE/DO

Ride a gondola along the waterways. A 30-minute trip costs from €80 (£69.10) – you can pay more to be serenaded by a singer.

Or try this money-saving tip that won’t sink your budget: to get the experience for just €2 (£1.73) per person, hop on board a traghetto, a smaller taxi gondola that will take you from one side of the Grand Canal to the other.

HIDDEN GEM

Venice is made up of around 118 islands, and the main city in the lagoon is really all about tourism.

Many of the locals live and work on the surrounding islands, including Giudecca, just south of the city.

It’s one stop away by vaporetto (water taxi), which has a calmer vibe, but will still give you a fascinating insight into the traditional Venetian way of life.

Here, you’ll find craftsmen making souvenirs in workshops, people creating traditional Venetian masks and glass, or jewellery from paper and growing vegetables in their gardens – everything you’ll buy in the main city.

BEST VIEW

The most obvious is the 98.6metre-tall St Mark’s Campanile (bell tower) in the famous St Mark’s Square.

The tallest structure in Venice, it was originally a watchtower to look out for ships. It costs €15 (£12.96) to enter and you’ll be pleased to know there’s a lift, which takes just 30 seconds to reach the top.

RATED RESTAURANT

The Hotel Bauer has a rooftop restaurant, De Pisis, with views over the Grand Canal, while the traditional Ristorante Do Forni (where Charles and Diana dined in 1985) is famous for its seafood dishes and dining room modelled on the Orient Express.

At Trattoria Al Gatto Nero, lagoon-fresh seafood and homemade pasta is made quite literally from scratch – so if you want the lasagne, be prepared to wait two hours.

BEST BAR

In 1948, founder Giuseppe Cipriani Senior invented the Bellini cocktail (white-peach puree and Prosecco) in Harry’s Bar, by the Grand Canal. One drink will set you back €22 (£19) – if you can get in

The Cantina do Mori is the oldest wine bar in Venice, founded in the 15th century, and probably one of the smallest.

It’s like stepping back in time as you enjoy local wines and cicchetti – small Venetian tapas.

Costing just a few Euros for wine and food, it’s a charming bargain. They’re open from 8am, but don’t expect coffee – it’s just wine.

HOTEL PICK

Escape the inflated prices by staying further down the coast in the quiet town of Jesolo, at the five-star Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa – ideal for families and couples with fantastic food, pools and playgrounds.

Its sea-view balconies look out on to nine miles of sand, so you can have a beach holiday, too. See falkensteiner.com/en/hotel-spa-jesolo.

As technology becomes more and more advanced and accessible to people, cruise ships have to put rules in place to make sure passengers are safe, and their privacy is protected

People are being warned that they could be fined or kicked off a cruise ship they’re a passenger on for wearing 1 luxury item when onboard. Several cruise companies have introduced a number of new rules in 2026 to ensure the safety of passengers travelling on board.

As technology continues to advance and people snap up the latest gadgets, cruise operators are keeping their policies up to date to safeguard holidaymakers and protect their privacy while travelling at sea. Whether you’re sailing with Disney, Virgin, P&O or Fred. Olsen., each cruise liner has their own set of rules that could land passengers in trouble.

Don and Heidi, a couple who have clocked up 100 cruises between them, regularly share updates and handy tips on TikTok, and have been keeping a close watch on shifting cruise policies over recent months.

With the rise of people wearing smart glasses, such as the very popular Meta Glasses, cruise ships have been forced to take steps to protect their passenger’s privacy when they’re traveling on cruise liners.

Don said: “Cruise lines are instituting new policies and in 2026, these behaviours will get you fined, banned, or removed from the ship entirely.

“One, recording other passengers without their consent using technology like Meta Glasses is a serious violation of privacy policies and fellow cruisers are reporting it.”

One of the cruise companies who has banned the items is Royal Caribbean who quietly updated its prohibited items list to tighten onboard safety and cybersecurity.

Recently, Royal Caribbean updated the verbiage on its prohibited items list to read: “‘Smart’ glasses from any of several manufacturers that can record video and audio are not allowed to be used in certain areas onboard the ship, including, but not limited to, public restrooms, Youth Program areas, medical areas, as well as the casino.”

Royal Carrabian’s app confirmed that if a guest fails to abide by the policy, the chief security officer and captain are authorized to confiscate the smart glasses.

Don continued: “Two, flying a drone from the ship is banned on nearly every cruise line. Get caught launching one and you’ll be escorted off at the next port.

“Three, fights on cruise ships are all over the news and lines are done looking the other way. Passengers involved in physical altercations are now being banned from certain cruise lines for life.

“Four, getting caught with prohibited items in checked luggage and you get escorted to a security meeting. Try to bring something more serious on board and you could be handed over to authorities at the next port.

“Five, this isn’t optional. It’s international maritime law. Skip the muster drill and crew will track you down to complete it. Refuse entirely and you’ll be removed from the ship before a set sail.

“Six, lighting up on your balcony, in your cabin, or anywhere else outside the designated smoking areas can get you fined and repeat violations can get you escorted off the ship.

“This includes vaping. Don’t forget to share this one with your cruise mates for your next sailing.”

Sunbeds in Benidorm are reported to be “totally empty”, but you may be floored to learn the story behind it. A man detailed what he thinks has been happening at the popular holiday destination

Every now and then we witness something that blows us away, and one man was recently left floored after seeing an unexpected sight in Benidorm. According to him, the sunbeds have been “empty” recently and the scene is quite something to behold.

Harry, known as Harry Tokky on TikTok, claimed he’s never seen Benidorm beach so “empty” before as he shared footage of disregarded sunbeds and a super quiet atmosphere. Known for sharing his adventures in Spain, he’s someone who knows what he’s talking about when it comes to the popular holiday destination, but this is a sight he perhaps didn’t anticipate to witness recently.

It comes as people reported a difference at the travel hotspot a few months ago. Back in December, someone else told of how the strip appeared to be super quiet too.

In the clip, Harry said: “I can’t believe it. Benidorm is deserted. Have you ever seen so many empty sunbeds in May in Benidorm? Because I haven’t.

“I know what it is. It’s because they charge people for the sunbeds. It’s got to be. Would you pay for a sunbed here in Benidorm?

“It’s currently 26 degrees. It’s absolutely gorgeous in Benidorm. Why on earth would nobody be taking a sunbed? Honestly, answer me that question.

“It’s really quiet down here today. It really is. I’ve never seen so many sunbeds. Normally this beach is absolutely rammed – you can’t even move, but there are a lot of sunbeds available.”

The video got several people talking, as it’s been viewed hundreds of times. They had all sorts of things to say about the situation, but not everybody agreed with Harry’s theory.

One person said: “Flights aren’t cheap anymore. Checked a few times over the last month and that’s what I found anyway.”

Another added: “When I come back, I’m sitting on my towel.” A third replied: “Getting too expensive.”

However, others had different ideas and thought the price was quite reasonable. Some also noted they’ve seen the beach packed in recent days.

Someone else replied: “It’s a decent price to come and go all day if you want to.” Another noted: “And yet when I was there today it was rammed. What time was this, 6am?”

A different person noted: “It was packed earlier.” One more also said: “Depends what time of day it is.”

What you need to know

According to reports, you have to pay to reserve a sunbed on Benidorm’s beaches, such as Levante and Poniente. It’s said to be €6 (£5.18) per sunbed and €6 per parasol per day.

There’s no need for advance reservations as you pay the attendant on the beach, and your ticket allows you to use your chosen spot all day. While it’s not clear if this is the only reason they’ve been claimed to be so “empty”, it’s one theory presented by people.

It’s clearly still a travel hotspot though, as Benidorm welcomes over three million visitors annually, making it a super popular tourist destination. In fact, the city’s overall population swells by up to 12 times during peak periods.

The council has been contacted for more information.

Shoppers looking for travel accessories could be in luck at the high street retailer

Home Bargains customers can upgrade their travel days for £2 with a ‘refreshing’ accessory. There’s nothing better than a sunny forecast for family day trips or a weekend getaway. But getting to your destination is sometimes easier said than done when you have to battle the heat while carrying luggage.

Thankfully, Home Bargains is selling a portable accessory to help travellers ‘stay cool on the go’. The discount chain has launched a £1.99 Travel Water Mist Spray Fan, and it could be ideal for summer.

The retailer explains: “Stay cool on the go with the Travel Water Mist Spray Fan from the Simple family – just fill with cold water, add ice for extra chill, and enjoy a refreshing mist whenever you need it.” The description continues: “Simply fill the bottle with cold water, turn on the fan and pull the trigger whenever you require a light covering of cool mist.

“Add ice to the tank for an even cooler mist! Empty water after every use and dry, always use fresh distilled water (to prevent mineral build-up and mould).”

For shoppers who don’t want the water mist, Home Bargains also sells a 99p Travel Mini Hand Held Fan. The description states: “Mini Hand Held Fan fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to carry wherever you go. It’s small enough to slip into your bag or pocket, yet powerful enough to provide a refreshing breeze, keeping you cool for warmer days.”

Ahead of summer, Home Bargains is stocking a range of travel products. Other items include travel cubes, organisers, and luggage solutions. One option that could impress fans of the spray fan is the 99p Lakescape Foldable Water Bottle 500ml.

The foldable water bottle is designed for adventure, according to the retailer. Home Bargains says: “Stay hydrated wherever your adventures take you with the Lakescape Foldable Water Bottle! This 500ml reusable gem rolls, folds, and stands tall when full, plus it comes with a handy carabiner clip for easy travel.”

Customers who prefer stainless steel bottles might like the £4.99 Kitchen Stainless Steel Bottle. Home Bargains says the bottle is “durable and easy to use” with a “spill-proof lock.”

For dogs, there’s also a £2.99 My Pets Pet Water Bottle. The description reads: “Making travelling with your pet easier with this amazing reusable water bottle fills when pressed and can be locked to avoid leaks. Comes with handy lanyard style strap for easy carrying. Three colours, pink, blue and grey.”

For customers looking for more items, Home Bargains offers a wide range of products on its website. Shoppers could also visit their local store.

Everyone’s heard about Clarkson’s Farm, so a visit to the Diddly Squat Farm Shop is a must for any fan, but it might just surprise you as it did when I visited while in the Cotswolds

Eager to see what Jeremy Clarkson’s famed corporation was really like, earlier this month I visited his Diddly Squat Farm Shop on the grounds of The Farmer’s Dog in the Cotswolds. Truthly, it was far from what I had expected.

Ever since Clarkson graced our screens in 2021 to take on the mammoth and unexpected task of running his very own farm in the Cotswolds, I was invested. Not because I’m an avid Top Gear fan, but after seeing the mega operation of Clarkson’s Farm and the endless challenges that come with it, I wanted them to succeed.

That, along with the comical moments that unfolded between Jeremy and fellow farmer, Kaleb Cooper, as well as the iconic characters of Gerald Cooper, Charlie Ireland and Lisa Hogan, who contribute to the highly entertaining and beloved Amazon series.

OPINION

Amy Jones

OPINION

Amy Jones

So when I found myself spending the weekend in the Cotswolds, a visit to Diddly Squat Farm Shop was top of my list.

While the flagship farm shop is in Chipping Norton, another of Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shops is in Burford. With ample space on the grounds, this is where you can also find The Farmer’s Dog, Clarkson’s pub and restaurant, which gets fully booked every weekend, as I quickly discovered. Yet, there was so much more on the site than I had initially anticipated.

From the moment Google Maps told me I had arrived at my destination, I was bewildered by how busy the car park was. I mean, it was a Saturday afternoon, but it was a gloomy day in May, and it was absolutely packed with fellow Clarkson’s farm fans who were just as eager to experience the show for themselves.

As I crossed the road and walked into the sprawling site, underneath towering woodland adorned with string lights, people were carrying crates of Hawkstone’s beer and an array of Clarkson merch. And that was just the start.

I was amazed by how big the grounds were and how much there was to do. While The Farmer’s Dog prompted the opening of this space, it’s rapidly grown to include an outdoor food van, The Farmer’s Dough, selling pizzas, and two bars pouring pints of Clarkson’s Hawkstone beer.

Then, of course, there was The Grand Tour tent, and for anyone a fan of the show, will remember Clarkson sparking up the genius idea to get in touch with his fellow Top Gear connections to use the tent as part of his franchise.

As I unassumingly strolled into the tent, decorated with more string lights and the iconic The Grand Tour sign still in place, I was taken aback by its scale and the amount on offer. Alongside its bar, there was an incredibly well-stocked butcher’s, a variety of tables and chairs packed with visitors, and two shops.

In one corner was the Hops & Chops, where I found a huge amount of The Farmer’s Dog merchandise, from t-shirts, caps, farming shirts, mugs, hip flasks, dog beds and dog jackets. There were also Hawkstone socks, bags, glasses, wine and of course, their signature beer. I couldn’t believe how much merch was laid before me, with clearly a huge demand for it, and its ever-growing popularity.

On the other side of the tent was the Diddly Squat Farm Shop, selling everything from fresh produce, spirits, snacks, books, clothing, aftershave and the iconic ‘This smells like my boll**ks’ candle, all under Clarkson’s brand. He’s clearly doing incredibly well, and for a fan like me, it’s easy to see why.

Clarkson has created an inviting space where you could easily spend hours or an afternoon. There’s a sprawling garden with views across the rolling countryside and dozens of outdoor benches for visitors to enjoy a refreshing Hawkstone beer.

It’s easily one of the best pub gardens I’ve been to, simply due to the copious amount of space available, and it’s even better for those who can’t secure a booking at The Farmer’s Dog. There’s even a traditional pub game of Aunt Sally to enjoy, where players throw wooden battens in an attempt to knock over a small skittle that is positioned on a pole around 30 feet away.

During my visit, I had my first taste of Hawkstone’s, opting for a pint of the IPA for £7, and I was impressed. You never quite know what you’ll get with a celebrity beverage, but I would happily drink it again. Elsewhere on the bar menu was their premium lager, session lager, premium lager zero, and the Kaleb cider, Hedgerow cider, rhub**tard cider, black stout and elderflower lager top.

While I expected to walk in and spend a few minutes browsing the farm shop offerings, I ended up staying for a few hours, in a place where there was no rush to leave. Even when the heavens opened, visitors scurried under the garden umbrellas, not being deterred from their day out at Clarkson’s farm.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

The items studied were two nights’ three-star weekend accommodation, a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of beer and Coca Cola, a glass of wine, return airport transfers, a 48-hour travel card, a sightseeing bus tour and tickets to top heritage attraction, top museum and top art gallery

An often-overlooked city with a rich history and breathtaking natural scenery is Europe’s best-value city for a short break.

Despite having a population smaller than Reading and sitting hundreds of miles inland from the coast, Sarajevo is a destination that packs a serious cultural punch, while being perfect for a summer holiday.

If for no other reason than for how cheap it is.

The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has topped Post Office Money’s City Cost Barometer 2026, ranking it the cheapest of the 50 European destinations included.

The items studied were two nights’ three-star weekend accommodation, a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house wine, a cup of coffee, a bottle of beer and Coca Cola, a glass of wine, return airport transfers, a 48-hour travel card, a sightseeing bus tour and tickets to top heritage attraction, top museum and top art gallery. Sarajevo’s total basket price was £248 – less than a third that of last place, Oslo.

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According to local tour guide Nermin Numic, life in Sarajevo is cheap and easy. Filling up on the city’s most famous local dishes, such as grilled minced meat cevapi, or the slow-cooked stew Bosanski Lonac, is easily achievable for £5. A fancier dinner and drink will set you back £15 a person.

In the high season, a simple room for two can be found for under £50, while higher-end hotels and Airbnbs charge around £150.

Nermin spent time out of the country during the Kosovo War and Covid, experiences which helped him see his home through different eyes.

“Sometimes it takes time being separated to appreciate things. It is amazing for me what this city and country has. So much diversity and these amazing mountains that I took for granted.”

Known as the Jerusalem of Europe, Sarajevo is a place where cultures, regions, and religions intersect. The Ottoman influence can be felt in the narrow winding alleys, bustling copper-smithing bazaars and traditional timber-framed houses. It butts up against the Austro-Hungarian influence, felt in the wide European avenues, grand neoclassical facades, and opulent public buildings, reflecting the city’s rapid modernization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

“It’s diverse in so many ways. It is called Little Jerusalem, it has churches, mosques, and synagogues next to each other, and it has for centuries. There are Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and communist social blocks part of the town,” Nermin explained.

The city sits between four mountains that hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, meaning skiing opportunities in the colder months – and hiking trails in the summer – are within easy reach.

While Nermin insists that two days and nights in the city is the absolute minimum required, any flying visit should take in the disused bobsleigh track. “It is now a canvas for local artists. You can walk down the track from the hills into the city,” he said.

The Old Town is another must. “It looks very exotic, but feels familiar. It’s a meeting of cultures. Look east, and you’re in Turkey. Look west, and it feels Hungarian.”

Suitably for a destination known for closing divides and bringing cultures together, Sarajevo is a place of bridges. Thirteen of them to be precise. The best-known is Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in an event that triggered the WWI. The Mostar Bridge is on the cover of almost every Bosnian travel guide, arching dramatically as it does over the emerald green Neretva River.

Unlike Bosnia and Herzegovina’s second city, Mostar, Sarajevo is rarely crowded. The one exception is in August, when the diaspora returns and the Capital’s film festival injects a real buzz into the place.

Ryanair flies from London Stansted to Sarajevo, while Wizz Air takes off from Luton. Return fares this summer are available for around £60.

All of the five cheapest cities in the Post Office Money rankings are in Eastern Europe. Bucharest (£258, Romania), Tirana (£263, Albania), Belgrade (£265, Serbia) and Trenĉin (£272, Slovakia) complete the top five. All five now offer direct flights from the UK.

Lowest-priced cities

1. Sarajevo – £248.27
2. Bucharest – £258.07
3. Tirana – £262.85
4. Belgrade – £265.13
5. Trenčín – £271.64
6. Riga – £278.19
7. Lille – £289.33
8. Vilnius – £289.39
9. Strasbourg – £319.13
10. Podgorica – £332.45

Most expensive cities

1. Oslo – £733.99
2. Copenhagen – £670.65
3. Edinburgh – £668.10
4. Geneva – £644.22
5. Barcelona – £641.03
6. Dublin – £610.79
7. Amsterdam – £609.18
8. Cork – £602.38
9. Venice – £579.92
10. Madrid – £579.92

Inmates in Venezuela’s western Barinas prison staged a protest on the roof of the detention centre calling for the removal of the prison’s director, who reportedly oversaw guards as they shot unarmed prisoners.

Ryan Porter, the acclaimed trombonist and fixture of the West Coast Get Down jazz ensemble, has died. He was 46.

Porter died Saturday from injuries sustained in a “severe” car crash on April 28, Porter’s bandmate Tony Austin wrote on Instagram. “Despite the best medical care, his condition deteriorated,” Austin wrote, noting that Porter “took his last breath, peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.”

Porter was a pivotal figure in contemporary Los Angeles jazz, beginning with his studies under legendary educator Reggie Andrews in the Multi-School Jazz Band in Watts. Porter formed close friendships and musical connections with saxophonist Kamasi Washington, multi-instrumentalist Terrace Martin, bassist Thundercat and the key players that would later form the West Coast Get Down.

“When it comes to keeping the lineage of jazz in L.A. alive, there have been people who were selfless and sacrificed a lot,” Porter told The Times in 2024. “For me back then, it was hard to understand why they cared so much. But it was because they saw potential in all of us so early, so we could see it for ourselves.”

That group cultivated a following at Leimert Park’s beloved venue the World Stage. They would go on to craft dense, experimental and spiritually yearning compositions for Kendrick Lamar’s 2015 LP “To Pimp a Butterfly,” among countless other LPs in the L.A. jazz scene, including Washington’s 2015 breakthrough “The Epic.”

Porter released four solo albums in his career — 2018’s “The Optimist,” 2019’s “Force for Good,” and 2022’s “Resilience,” along with his 2017 children’s album “Spangle-Lang Lane” — each featuring arrangements from his lifelong bandmates. In 2024, he released a documentary film, “Resilience,” focused on the impact of free music education programs in Los Angeles and how they helped build the city’s modern jazz scene.

“In the inner city, you can be a gang member or drug dealer, but most kids want to take their best steps,” Porter said in 2024. “Friends and music teachers inspired me through their work ethic, giving us a place to perform where we could take advantage of that expertise. Now it’s our turn to take care of them for the next generation.”

Washington, Porter’s frequent collaborator, remembered Porter in a poignant statement on Instagram. “I love you Ryan Porter, I miss you, and you will always have a space in my heart and soul. I will cherish the many years we had together, I thought we would have more, but I am thankful for what we had,” he wrote, adding, “You have been my friend for most of my life. I’ve looked up to you since I was 11 years old. We learned from each other, we supported each other, we created beautiful music together and shared it with people all over the world.”

“You would always tell me that you wanted more than anything else to be a FORCE FOR GOOD and you did it, you are the complete embodiment of that,” Washington continued. “You did so much good Ryan, your life made this world better.”

Porter is survived by two daughters, both of whom are preparing for college, according to a GoFundMe page set up by his friends to contribute to funeral costs and support his children. “Beyond the stage and beyond the music, Ryan’s greatest pride was being a father and provider for his family,” the fundraiser states.