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Antiques Roadshow expert Joanna Hardy was left gobsmacked as she shared the true value of a guest’s family heirloom – and even admitted that the item had made her ‘tingle’

An Antiques Roadshow expert was left astonied as she revealed the astonishing value of a guest’s treasured family heirloom.

The beloved BBC show rolled out another episode on Sunday (May 18) with Fiona Bruce once again steering the ship. This week, the team set up camp at the majestic Beaumaris Castle on the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales.

Eager individuals flocked to flaunt their cherished items to the Antiques Roadshow connoisseurs for appraisal. But the atmosphere intensified when expert Joanna Hardy stumbled upon a simply “extraordinary” bracelet.

Basking in the sunlight, Joanna exclaimed: “This bracelet is just glistening in the sun here,” and marvelled at its appearance with “And we’ve got the gold nuggets which is as if they’d come out of the ground. I mean they just look extraordinary.”

The owner of the bracelet recounted its history, saying: “This was a bracelet that my grandfather gave to my grandmother.”, reports Edinburgh Live.

She continued with tales of her grandfather’s time working at the Frontino mines in Segovia, Colombia during the ’30s and ’40s as an engineer, stating: “And my grandfather worked in Segovia, in Colombia in the Frontino mines in the ’30s and ’40s.

“He was an engineer so I don’t believe he mined those from hand, but I think he must have got those from there.”

Joanna discussed the jewellery’s avant-garde style for its era: “It would have been ahead of its time for the ’30s. If we think about ’30s jewellery and the Art Deco jewellery and its diamonds and it’s all very geometric.”

The guest had also brought along photographs of her grandparents from their time in Colombia. Further enamoured by the piece, Joanna commented: “It’s just got that raw energy about it.”

The guest expressed her affection for the heirloom, revealing: “I love it when I wear it.”

Regarding the item’s value, Joanna revealed: “Gold has never been higher than today, so at auction I think you’d be looking at around £5,000.”

Instantly, the guest was taken aback and exclaimed: “Wow!” Overwhelmed and struggling to articulate her surprise, she continued: “Okay, wow… that’s quite a lot more than..”

She then expressed her astonishment further by saying, “Oh everybody says that I know. It’s really a lot more than I thought. Thank you very much!” Joanna, delighted by the guest’s response, shared in the excitement: “Oh you’ve made me tingle as well!”.

Countryfile’s Adam Henson has opened up on the ‘difficult times’ he has faced away from the BBC show

Countryfile’s Adam Henson has candidly shared his struggles with “difficult times” and family woes.

Behind the scenes, Adam tends to a Cotswolds farm founded by his father Joe in 1971, where he’s faced hard choices and significant losses.

Adam, despite a robust circle of support, stresses the need to highlight mental health concerns within the farming community.

In an exclusive chat with Reach PLC, Adam confessed: “My characteristics are that I am an upbeat person, and I have got an incredibly supportive family, wife and children and people around me.”

On the professional front, he divulged: “And within the business, I have got a business partner who I was at Agricultural College with, and he is one of my closest friends, and what we do is surround ourselves with people that are excellent within their own role in the business”, reports Wales Online.

He added about his team dynamics: “Whether that is a manager or a farm manager, we work really closely with the team, and we are all very honest and open with one another.”

Reflecting on some particularly tough periods, Adam revealed: “I have had some very difficult times in my life, both in business and personally. My wife was very ill a few years ago, my parents dying, and I lost a nephew.

“We have gone through foot and mouth challenges, Covid, and we have had some tough times, but I’ve never had poor mental health because I’ve had that fantastic support system around me.”

Adam is well-known for sharing the ups and downs of his farming life in Gloucestershire with his social media audience.

In one of his latest online updates, Adam shared a touching moment from the farm. In the post, he jubilantly declares, “We’ve just had another new arrival on the farm. One of our Gloucester cows has given birth.”

The footage then reveals the heartwarming scene of the cow alongside her newborn calf as Adam appreciatively says, “There she is. That’s Holly and her beautiful little calf.”

Concluding his heartfelt post, Adam praises the efforts of the cow with an affectionate: “What a clever girl.”

Admirers flocked to the comments section, with one person expressing their awe by stating “Just beautiful,” while another kept it brief with the word, “Lovely.”

The charming newborn also attracted warm sentiments, with someone calling it a “Sweet baby”.

Countryfile airs Sundays at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

GARY LINEKER has roasted Wayne Rooney over his managerial record – live on the BBC.

The Manchester United legend joined Lineker for the Beeb’s coverage of the FA Cup final.

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Rooney, 39, has launched a media career after being sacked by Plymouth Argyle on New Year’s Eve.

The ex-England forward’s managerial record is chequered at best, with Argyle bottom of the Championship when he was axed.

Rooney has failed to achieve a win rate of over 30 per cent during stints with DC United, Derby County, Plymouth and Birmingham.

Lineker couldn’t resist sending a brutal dig Rooney’s way during the panel’s half-time analysis of Crystal Palace’s win over Manchester City.

The Eagles took a 1-0 lead into the break at Wembley thanks to Eberechi Eze’s goal.

Micah Richards asked Rooney: “Being a manager and you’re 1-0 up, what do you tell the players at half time?

“Do you change the way you play?”

Quick as a flash, Lineker quipped: “His teams were never 1-0 up.”

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The panel burst into laughter, with an apologetic Lineker adding: “Sorry Wayne!”

Laughing himself, Rooney hit back: “Let’s just get back to the game.”

The exchange quickly made its way onto social media.

One fan laughed in response: “Gary Lineker has just cooked Wayne Rooney, my God.”

Another said: “Lineker bodying Wayne Rooney is the best bit of the final so far

While a third joked: “Mr Lineker is off the leash today…brutal to Rooney at HT. Rate it.”

Lineker is leaving his role as Match of the Day host at the end of the Premier League season.

The 64-year-old has been in the MOTD hot seat since 1999.

Lineker will make his final appearance on the highlights show on May 25.

But he will continue to front the BBC’s live FA Cup coverage next season and will also lead the coverage of the 2026 World Cup finals.

EUROVISION legend Conchita Wurst has revealed she secretly underwent a facelift at the age of 36 – and cleverly hides the scars with her signature beard.

The surprise admission came during a special edition of Scott Mills’ Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2, broadcast live from Basel, Switzerland, ahead of tonight’s Eurovision Grand Final.

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Host Scott asked guests Graham Norton and Conchita for a never-before-heard exclusive – and both delivered.

Graham teased: “I’ve a good one. This is my left shoulder’s first appearance on radio. Brand new shoulder… It’s less than two weeks old.”

Showing off the fresh scar, he added: “It feels a bit new, it’s a little oweee, but forgive me I’m on many, many pain medications right now so if I say anything bad, it’s not my fault.”

Conchita responded: “Oh lucky you!” before casually dropping her own bombshell.

She announced: “My facelift. First time on radio!”

A surprised Scott asked, “Is that real?” to which Conchita confirmed: “Yeah.”

Graham joked, “That beard covers a lot of scars,” prompting Conchita to quip: “Yeah. I got the Lindsay Lohan treatment.”

Scott praised the results: “It is good,” to which Conchita replied: “Thank you.”

Scott added: “What we do is celebrate – Graham’s got a new left shoulder and Conchita’s got a new face!”

Conchita Wurst is the stage name and persona of Austrian singer Thomas Neuwirth.

When performing as Conchita, she uses she/her pronouns. As Thomas, he uses he/him pronouns.

Thomas was born November 1988 in Gmunden, Austria, making him 29 years old.

He is a recording artist and drag queen and was part of a short-lived boy band called Jetzt Anders! before creating the Conchita persona in 2011.

Is Conchita Wurst married?

Thomas has created a fictional backstory for Conchita, which includes her marriage to a French burlesque dancer called Jacques Patriaque.

Jacques is a real person and is a friend of Thomas.

Conchita’s backstory helps the singer to keep his real-life relationships private.

When did Conchita win Eurovision?

Conchita was selected to represent Austria in September 2013 at the 2014 Contest.

In May 2014, Conchita travelled to Copenhagen in Denmark for the competition and her song Rise Like a Phoenix was one of 1o favourites to win among bookmakers.

On May 10, Conchita won the Eurovision Contest with 290 points.

It was the first time Austria had won the Contest since 1966.

What is the HIV positive blackmail plot about?

On 16 April 2018, Conchita revealed in a post on Instagram that she has been forced to reveal she is HIV positive after being blackmailed by a former boyfriend.

The bearded performer wrote that she had received medical treatment and that she was feeling healthy and strong.

She wrote that “coming out is better than being outed by a third party”.

She added that her reason for going public was “to encourage (others) and make a step against the stigmatisation of people who through their own behaviour or through no fault of their own were infected with HIV.”

What has Conchita said about her beard?

Conchita’s participation in the 2014 Contest led some to nickname her the ‘bearded lady’.

But speaking on The Graham Norton Show at the time, she said of her beard: “It’s my own truth. It makes me comfortable on stage.

“I love myself and the bearded lady is fun and expresses everything I feel.

“Being a teenager in a small Austrian village was not fabulous.”

• Rylan and Scott are providing Eurovision commentary tonight on Radio 2 and BBC Sounds from 8pm, with Graham on BBC One and iPlayer.

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The film has an impressive 86% on Rotten Tomatoes and has been described as “impeccably cast and smartly written”.

A chilling horror movie that’s been dubbed a ’10/10′ must-watch by fans is now streaming at no charge. The film has garnered accolades for featuring the ‘best plot twist ever’ – and it’s hitting BBC iPlayer for free this weekend.

Bodies, Bodies, Bodies boasts an impressive 86% on Rotten Tomatoes and has earned glowing reviews for being “impeccably cast and smartly written”, as well as “an uncommonly well-done whodunit”.

The plot centres around: “When a group of rich 20-somethings plan a hurricane party at a remote family mansion, a party game goes awry in this fresh and funny look at backstabbing, fake friends, and one party gone very, very wrong.”

With a young and talented cast, the film features stars like Amandla Stenberg from The Hate U Give, Rachel Sennott from Shiva Baby, and the comedian Pete Davidson.

Horror enthusiasts believe this film is grossly underrated, with many voices on Rotten Tomatoes comments section singing its praises, reports Surrey Live.

One fan remarked: “What initially seemed like a typical teen horror flick turns out to be a fun and surprisingly well-crafted film.”

Another added their voice stating: “Bodies Bodies Bodies is a sharp, satirical take on Gen Z culture wrapped in a murder mystery.

“The dialogue is witty and self-aware, capturing the internet-fueled language of the TikTok generation. It’s not your typical slasher flick; it’s more of a psychological whodunit with a cheeky twist.”

Several viewers found themselves entirely gripped by the “insane” twist of the tale, with one confessing: “Best plot twist ever. Be prepared to be amazed.”

One viewer enthused: “A well done fun guilty pleasure murder mystery film with sure some cheesy lines but some good acting and scenes that hooks you in with twists and a wow of an ending.”

Another fan raved: “Another A24 masterpiece, insane plot twist, hilarious, it just has it all.”

However, some viewers were left unimpressed, with one dismissing it as “pure dribble” and another criticising: “Highly annoying, unlikeable characters. I regret watching this.”

In contrast, professional critics were largely full of praise, with The Times’ Edward Porter noting: “In general the film crackles with life. It has a caustic script, a stormy atmosphere and a talented cast.”

The Independent’s Clarisse Loughrey observed: “It’s peak nihilistic entertainment, watching these souls try, in vain, to keep their fragile reputations intact while they’re drenched head to toe in blood.”

Empire Magazine’s Ella Kemp concluded: “Tense when it needs to be and awfully good fun throughout. Stupidity reigns supreme for these rich kids, but the filmmakers are smart enough to make Bodies Bodies Bodies stick the landing.”

The Financial Times’ Danny Leigh also commented: “The title could hint at either sex or death, and both end up with roles to play in a movie carefully stuffed with rising stars du jour.”

Bodies Bodies Bodies is streaming tonight at 11.30pm on BBC One and will be available on BBC iPlayer after broadcast.

BBC News presenter Nina Warhurst has hit back at a viewer’s unsolicited critique regarding her accent and wardrobe choices after she was named as cover for Naga Munchetty

BBC News presenter Nina Warhurst has clapped back at a viewer’s unasked-for critique of her accent and wardrobe. Recently stepping up to present BBC‘s News at One and occasionally appearing on BBC Breakfast, Nina responded to a harsh comment that emerged online.

Nina shared the viewer’s message on Instagram. The comment read: “Just wondering if @NinaWarhurst has an opinion on what constitutes TOO short a skirt for a 44-year-old. Anyway, it’s pleasing there’s a very positive move towards ‘received’ pronunciation.”

However, the broadcaster didn’t let the comment go unanswered. Alongside denouncing the viewer’s words, Nina also posted her own retort.

In her response, she wrote: “When you briefly check back in with Twitter/X because surely it can’t be the stream of uninvited feedback from men that you remember… oh hi there. (Translation: if you’re gonna look like an old trout, it’s more acceptable if you don’t sound Mancunian. Noted.)”

This incident comes after Nina’s significant career shift from BBC Breakfast to the BBC News at One, although she still makes guest appearances on the morning show. The mother-of-three has been a key part of the Breakfast team for seven years, becoming a familiar face on the iconic red sofa and reporting from various locations, reports Leicestershire Live.

Upon announcing her new role in March, she stated: “I’ll be hanging up the high-viz and hairnet for a wee while as I join the BBC’s News at One.”

The presenter took a moment to reflect with her followers, recounting her initial emotions: “I was heavily pregnant, very nervous, and unbelievably excited to be offered a few shifts on the national broadcast treasure that is @bbcbreakfast. The job was made permanent as we came out of a lockdown and began looking around and wondering how we might pick up the pieces to heal and live again.”

She went on to express her gratitude: “It’s been a privilege to help support our audiences through this tumultuous time. I am always amazed by those who invite us in to share their stories.”

Recently, the host admitted she was in tears as she said farewell to BBC Breakfast. The journalist presented her last ever segment on the show , and couldn’t help getting emotional at the end of an era after joining in 2018.

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The 16th Diamond League season is under way as athletics’ Olympic stars build towards their shot at world glory in 2025, with coverage live on the BBC.

The series sees athletes compete for points in 32 disciplines across 14 meetings in a bid to qualify for the winner-takes-all two-day finals in Zurich in August.

That takes place just over a fortnight before the start of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan in September.

It is also the first year in which the Diamond League must compete with Michael Johnson’s new Grand Slam Track for athletes’ attention.

However, there has been only one direct clash between the two competitions – with the Miami Slam on 2-4 May having taken place at the same time as the meet in Keqiao, China on 3 May.

The Diamond League has increased its prize money to the highest level in its history, with a total prize pot of $9.24m (£6.95m) on offer across the series.

That includes $500,000 (£375,000) at each of the 14 series meetings, and $2.2m (£1.7m) at the Diamond League final.

BBC Sport has agreed a deal to broadcast the Diamond League for the next five years.

Watch the Doha Diamond League action on the BBC Two, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app from 17:00 to 19:00 BST on Friday.

The BBC’s boss has reminded stars to follow the corporation’s rules and avoid damaging “mistakes”, after Gary Lineker attracted renewed criticism for his use of social media.

On Tuesday, the Match of the Day host deleted an Instagram story post he shared from the group Palestine Lobby, which said: “Zionism explained in two minutes” and featured an illustration of a rat.

A rat has historically been used as an antisemitic insult, referring to language used by Nazi Germany to characterise Jews. His representatives said he was not aware of the connection.

Asked whether the post had broken BBC guidelines, director general Tim Davie said: “The BBC’s reputation is held by everyone, and when someone makes a mistake, it costs us.”

He added: “I think we absolutely need people to be exemplars of the BBC values and follow our social media policy. It’s as simple as that.”

The Campaign Against Antisemitism said it was submitting a complaint to the BBC, adding that Lineker’s “continued association with the BBC is untenable”.

The charity posted on X: “Nothing to see here. Just Gary Lineker’s Instagram account sharing an anti-Israel video misrepresenting Zionism, complete with a rat emoji.”

A spokesperson for the Board of Deputies of British Jews said “the BBC should ask him to leave now rather than allowing him to dictate his own terms”.

“He has caused great offence with this video – particularly with his egregious use of a rat emoji to illustrate Zionists.”

Lineker’s agent said: “Whilst viewing and reposting a video, Gary did not notice a rodent emoticon added by the author of the post. Although if he had, he would not have made any connection. The repost has been removed.”

Zionism refers to the movement to create a Jewish state in the Middle East, roughly corresponding to the historical land of Israel, and thus support for the modern state of Israel.

The BBC, when asked on Tuesday if it had any comment on Lineker’s now-removed post, responded by referring to its guidance on personal use of social media.

The former England striker has attracted criticism before for his posts on social media in the past.

He was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over a post in which he said language used to promote a government asylum policy was “not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s”.

The BBC’s social media rules were then rewritten to say presenters of flagship programmes outside news and current affairs – including Match of the Day – have “a particular responsibility to respect the BBC’s impartiality, because of their profile on the BBC”.

In November 2024, Lineker announced his departure from Match of the Day, but he will remain with the BBC to front FA Cup and World Cup coverage.

The BBC can help tackle a “crisis of trust” in UK society, the broadcaster’s director general has said.

Tim Davie has set out measures he says will allow the broadcaster to play a leading role in reversing a breakdown in trust in information and institutions, as well as combating division and disconnection between people.

They include expanding fact-checking service BBC Verify, giving children lessons about disinformation, and doing more to scrutinise local politicians.

“The BBC is ready to play its full part – not simply defending tradition, but shaping the future,” he said in a speech on Wednesday.

“A future where trusted information strengthens democracy, where every child has a fair start, where creativity fuels growth and social capital, and where no-one is left behind in the digital age.”

Mr Davie added: “The future of our civilised, cohesive, democratic society is, for the first time in my life, at risk.”

The speech to civic and community leaders in Salford set out Mr Davie’s vision for the corporation’s future.

The BBC’s current royal charter, which sets out the terms and purposes of its existence, expires in 2027, and negotiations with the government about its renewal are ramping up.

“We believe that we must reform faster and get more support to avoid decline,” he said.

He said he was not asking for the “status quo” in funding, and said he would “keep an open mind” about the future of the licence fee or what could replace it.

“We want modernisation and reform,” he said. But any future method of funding must ensure the BBC remains a universal service, he stressed.

“All the funding models that have been floated in the debate have their merits and drawbacks. But some such as advertising or subscription don’t pass the test of building a universal trusted public service.

“Beyond that, we keep an open mind. And we continue to actively explore all options that can make our funding model fairer, more modern, and more sustainable.”

He also called for “more help” from the government to fund the World Service, calling it a “priceless national asset”, and saying “the government should invest for significant growth, not survival”.

However, there have been recent reports that ministers are drawing up plans for cuts to World Service funding.

Mr Davie argued that the BBC could play a key part in making the UK a “global leader in trusted information”, support democracy, boost education and economic growth, and improve digital access.

The BBC’s future would involve “doubling down on impartiality, championing free, fair reporting alongside landmark investigative journalism, investing in BBC Verify and InDepth as well as increasing transparency and holding our nerve amidst culture wars”, he said.

The BBC can “help turn the tide” and improve trust by “dramatically increasing” the amound of news coverage on platforms like YouTube and Tik Tok have a stronger presence amid the online noise.

It will combine AI agent technology with BBC journalism to create “a new gold standard fact checking tool”, he said, but without relinquishing editorial oversight.

“Our aim is to work globally with other public service broadcasters to ensure a healthy core of fact-based news.”

The BBC will also:

• Expand its expand Local Democracy Reporting Service from focusing on local councils to scrutinise health authorities, police and crime commissioners, and regional mayors
• Create specialist BBC Insight teams across the UK to do more investigative reporting, and expand local BBC Verify and InDepth work
• Launch new political debate radio shows for different areas, modelled on Radio 4’s Any Questions
• Give every child “proper training on disinformation” and potentially develop qualifications in disinformation studies
• Offer offer a new BBC family account for every parent of a young child, offering support at key milestones from birth to leaving school
• Move more executive roles outside London

The BBC says it is the most trusted news provider in the UK, with 45% of the population naming it as the source they trusted the most in 2024. That is down from 57% a decade ago.

Mr Davie also called for a national plan to switch off traditional broadcast transmissions in the 2030s, and ensure a “smooth” transition to internet-only delivery of programmes.

The BBC could launch its own device aimed at people who haven’t switched to streaming, based on the existing Freely online service, Mr Davie said.

“We want to double down on Freely as a universal free service to deliver live TV over broadband.

“And we want to consider developing and launching a streaming media device with Freely capabilities built in, with a radically simplified user interface specifically designed to help those yet to benefit from IP services.”

Eurovision fever is upon us as a host of countries battle it out once again in the semi-final stages of the contest to reach Saturday’s epic final in Basel, Switzerland

Music fans across Europe are set to be in their element once again as the iconic Eurovision Song Contest returns. This year’s semi-final stages are underway, and fans are eagerly waiting to see if their favourite acts will progress to the next stage.

This year sees Basel hosting events following last year’s impressive victory by Switzerland’s Nemo in Sweden. Their song titled The Code gave their reflection on their non-binary identity.

With the rumour mill in full flow about how Switzerland will put on the spectacle – a Celine Dion performance has been touted – one thing is certain: the countries that are battling it out for the coveted award.

This year’s UK entry sees Remember Monday take to the stage in the hope of avoiding the dreaded nil points announcement. The Country trio landed the plum gig after being selected by the BBC’s team of experts. Fans may recognise the group from their efforts on The Voice, where they reached the quarter finals.

Ini total, 37 countries are challenging on the big stage, with the the top 10 from each semi-final making it through to join the ‘big five’. But who else will be competing – and who is banned from doing so?

READ MORE: Eurovision semi-final 2025 LIVE: Netherlands returns year after controversial axe

Who are the Eurovision Song Contest ‘big five’

The UK, Spain, Germany, France and Italy make up the annual event’s ‘big five’. This means these countries receive automatic qualification for the final, which will be held on Saturday, May 17.

Their route straight to the final comes as these are the countries that make the biggest financial contributions to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organisation that owns and operates Eurovision.

The rule came into play in 2000, giving the five countries direct entry into the final – along with the host country.

Eurovision 2025 semi-final lineups

Those outside of the ‘big five’ hoping to make it to the big showcase have to battle it out in two semi-finals. This year sees the first semi-final take place tonight (Tuesday, May 13). It will feature Iceland, Poland, Slovenia and Estonia to begin with.

The running order continues: Spain, Ukraine, Sweden, Portugal, Norway, Belgium, Italy, Azerbaijan, San Marino, Albania, Netherlands, Croatia, Switzerland and Cyprus.

As Italy, Spain and Switzerland automatically qualify for the Grand Final of the spectacle, their viewers will be able to vote for their favourites.

The second semi will take place on Thursday, May 15. This time 16 countries will fight it out. They will be: Australia, Montenegro, Ireland, Latvia, Armenia, Austria, Greece, Lithuania, Malta, Georgia, Denmark, Czechia, Luxembourg, Israel, Serbia and Finland.

UK, France and Germany entries will also perform despite already being through. Their audiences will be able to vote still for their favourite songs.

Countries that are banned from Eurovision

While Israel’s entry is fully expecting a frosty reception, and protests are expected to be carried out, they are still taking part in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Over 70 participants of previous contests have come together to call for the exclusion of the country due to its continued bombing of Gaza.

However, some countries have been banned.

Among them is Belarus. The country has been banned from competing since 2021. In that year, the country’s entry song,Ya Nauchu Tebya (I’ll Teach You), was deemed to have had lyrics included which were politically motivated and potentially harmful.

Russia have also been banned. The country’s participation was suspended indefinitely due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Some critics of Israel’s entry have claimed the EBU lacks consistency due to this ban.

READ MORE: Teeth whitening kit that made a 77-year-old’s smile ‘look amazing’ is 20% off

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Gavin Peacock was a regular on the BBC’s football coverage in the 2000s, but he decided to quit television after Euro 2008 to embark on an entirely new career

Former Match of the Day analyst Gavin Peacock has opened up on his drastic career change after leaving the world of television. The former footballer had a successful 17-year stint on the pitch, playing for clubs such as Chelsea, Newcastle and QPR before transitioning into broadcasting post-retirement.

He quickly became a familiar face on TV in the 2000s, regularly appearing on Football Focus, Final Score, and Match of the Day. Peacock also appeared on the BBC’s coverage of major tournaments like the 2006 World Cup and Euro 2008. However, when the latter concluded, he chose to retire his microphone permanently and pursue an entirely different career thousands of miles away.

The ex-attacking midfielder has been a devout Christian since he was 18 years old, having started attending church in his early teens. Despite being taunted by rivals who dubbed him a ‘Bible basher’ on the pitch, he has always openly expressed pride in his faith, even hosting an episode of Songs of Praise for the BBC.

Towards the twilight of his career, Peacock, who also had spells at Bournemouth, Charlton and Gillingham, began delivering sermons at his local church. However, following Euro 2008, he made a significant move and relocated to Canada with his family to undertake a three-year Masters course in divinity in Calgary, with the goal to become a minister.

In a subsequent interview, Peacock confessed that the shift had been “the hardest few years” of his life, reports Wales Online. However, he relished being recognised for his preaching rather than his footballing prowess in Canada.

“I became a Christian at 18 when I was at QPR,” he told MailOnline, reflecting on his spiritual journey. “I was living the dream as a footballer with some money in my pocket and a bit of adulation from fans. But, because football was my God, I questioned why I felt good if I played well and low if I’d done badly.

“We weren’t practising Christians at home but one night my Mum said she was going to the local church and I went to keep her company. Afterwards, I went to a youth meeting. I pulled up in my Ford XR3i and had the mullet to match.

“I walked in thinking I was part of the in-crowd, but these other young people had something I didn’t,” he added. “When they spoke about Jesus Christ and prayed, there was a joy and reality I didn’t have. I was saved then and everything fell into place.”

Peacock explained how he no longer felt the pressures of performing on the pitch because his main concern was his relationship with God. As a result, any fears or anxieties with regards to football fell away.

Since being ordained in 2012, he has served as associate pastor at Calvary Grace Church in Calgary. He lived there with his wife of over 35 years, Amanda, and their two children, Jake and Ava.

However, earlier this year, he and Amanda made the move back to England, with Peacock taking on a one-year role as pastor of Bethersden Baptist Church in Kent. Their children are now adults and have chosen to remain in Canada, with Jake making a name for himself in the world of Muay Thai.

Describing his experience in Canada, Peacock said: “Calgary is a cowboy town. They call it the Texas of Canada. When I first met the senior pastor, he walked in with a Stetson and an equally big belt and boots. It’s also an oil town but one where I can see the Rocky Mountains from my window.

“The winters are brutally cold. Snow starts at the end of November and stays until March. Our first home was in a little mountain town called Canmore.

“I’m a boy from suburbia who went from Match of the Day to driving into Calgary to study Hebrew and Greek, driving miles without seeing another car.”

Nowadays, Peacock speaks at conferences worldwide about his religion, and has hosted faith and football evenings across the country. While his days as a pundit may seem like a distant memory for some, the ex-TV star believes his career in broadcasting has been helpful in his new vocation.

“My producer on MOTD2, Mark Demuth, taught me to think about my first line and a line to come out of VT,” he added. “It’s a good way to construct a sermon, a good introduction and conclusion so people are left with the main point.”

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A TOP British jockey has been tipped for a spot on Strictly Come Dancing.

The female sports star, 35, retired just this week – and speculation is mounting that BBC bosses will “make a move.”

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Now Rachael Blackmore has been tipped with odds of 4/1 by bookies Ladbrokes to compete for the Glitterball Trophy.

On Monday, the Grand National-winning rider announced on her social media that she was bringing her glittering 16-year career to an end.

She became the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021 when riding Minella Times home at Aintree for long-time boss Henry De Bromhead.

The Irish sports star became the first female to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup on A Plus Tard in 2022, one of 18 winners at the Cheltenham Festival.

Now Alex Apati of Ladbrokes has told us: “She’s used to silks, but not with sequins…

“We’d be amazed if Strictly chiefs didn’t make a move for one of racing’s greatest later this year.”

Rachael became the first female to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup on A Plus Tard in 2022, one of 18 winners at the Cheltenham Festival.

On Monday, she released an emotional statement on her retirement.

In it, she said: “My days of being a jockey have come to an end.

“I feel the time is right. I’m sad but I’m also incredibly grateful for what my life has been for the past 16 years.

“I just feel so lucky, to have been legged up on the horses I have, and to have experienced success I never even dreamt could be possible.

“It is daunting, not being able to say that I am a jockey anymore… who even am I now! But I feel so incredibly lucky to have had the career I’ve had.

“To have been in the right place at the right time with the right people, and to have gotten on the right horses – because it doesn’t matter how good you are without them.

“They have given me the best days of my life and to them I am most grateful.”

All your Strictly Come Dancing winners

Strictly first kicked off back in 2004, and over the years has crowned 21 winners.

Rachael would follow in the footsteps of fellow jockey Richard Dunwoody if she scooped the Strictly gig, after his stint in sequins in 2009.

He previously told how he earned £9K in nine minutes when winning the Grand National – yet bagged a bigger pay cheque on the BBC One series.

Recently, The Sun reported how the Queen Camilla Parker Bowles’ son, Tom, is said to be in talks to compete on the BBC dancing competition.

Tom, 50, is a food writer and restaurant critic and has made regular appearances on MasterChef as a judge.

A source said: “Top of their wishlist is MasterChef star Tom. His name was also sounded-out last year but never materialised. Bosses hope they’ll have better luck this year.

“It would be a coup to sign someone with such a strong royal link. Maybe we could see Camilla and Charles in the audience?”

Made In Chelsea star and I’m A Celebrity winner Georgia ‘Toff’ Toffolo is also on the dance show’s radar.

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The 2025 TV BAFTAs crowed some surprise winners – but fans of the hit BBC game show The Traitors were less than impressed when the series lost in all its categories

Fans of The Traitors were up in arms on Sunday night when the hit BBC show failed to win a single award at the 2025 TV BAFTAs. The reality game show sees contestants competing for a cash prize while trying to avoid being eliminated by non faithful members of the group.

On Sunday night, the show was nominated for three gongs – standing to win the Best Reality award, Best Entertainment Performance award, and the public-voted Memorable Moment award. But – to the outrage of devoted fans – the series failed to win a single gong.

Channel 4’s The Jury: Murder Trial proved triumphant in the Best Reality category – while show host Claudia Winkleman failed to bring home the Best Entertainment Performance award, losing out to Joe Lycett for his Channel 4 show Late Night Lycett.

Despite having a loyal fanbase, the series also failed to win the public voted Memorable Moment award – and Strictly Come Dancing waltzed off with it instead for a powerful dance performed by Dianne Buswell and Chris McCausland. After realising that the Traitors had not managed to secure any wins, fans took to social media to complain – and plot a revolt.

Over on X, the fan page The Traitors HQ was quick to realise that betrayal had taken place at the hands of the voting experts. Unleashing a post over the failure to secure one of the top gongs, they raged: “The Traitors just LOST the award for Best Reality Show at the 2025 #BAFTATVAwards. We ride at dawn.”

The message spurned motivated other fans to express disappointment – with one asking “HOW” in response, while another raged: “Robbed , absolutely robbed . Never heard of the winner.”

There soon followed complaints over the fact Diane’s “iconic” line “Paul isn’t my son… but Ross is!” was overlooked in the memorable moment category – with one fan blasting: “RIGGED” in protest.

And then when Claudia lost the Best Entertainment Performance award to Joe Lycett – who did not even attend the awards – anger reached volcanic levels. One fan exclaimed: “Oh man! The Traitors are the best! You still a winner in my eyes!”

With the final results unveiled, The Traitors HQ recapped the unfortunate affair, typing: “Despite being the most watched and most talked about reality TV show of the past year, The Traitors UK walked away with ZERO awards at the 2025 #BAFTATVAwards. Thoughts?”

The fans did not hold back, with one writing: “ROBBED & UNDESERVED… Claudia deserved Best Presenter at the very least!” And another branded the outcome as: “Absolutely ridiculous”.

Other fans were more considered, however, with one reasoning: “They can’t allow one show to win everything every year.” While another pondered: “If the viewers don’t vote in the public votes it doesn’t help. Also sometimes super popular programmes don’t get voted for by the panel.”

Fans of The Traitors will have more devious episodes to watch over the coming year as the show will return for a fourth season – while the first ever UK celebrity version of the show began filming last month. A string of stars signed up to stab each other in the back on camera.

Comedy cutie Alan Carr, sports expert Clare Balding, national treasure Stephen Fry, and actor Nick Mohammed are among those taking part in the series – with the celeb edition expected to air at some point later this year.

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A BRIDGERTON star has cosied up to his glamorous girlfriend at the TV BAFTA Awards -just days after making their romance official.

The glittering star studded ceremony took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall and was hosted by US Traitors host Alan Cumming.

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Luke Newton looked smitten by his stunning girlfriend Antonia Roumelioti as the couple attended the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards on Sunday.

The Bridgerton icon, 32, packed on the PDA with the gorgeous model, 24, making a loving public appearance just two days after going Instagram official reported The Mail.

Luke, who plays Colin Bridgerton on the show, opted for a classic black suit and an unbuttoned matching shirt.

Antonia shimmered beside him in a sculpted mono-shoulder purple long length gown. 

The Netflix icon appeared in very happy spirits as he was snapped and spoke to TV fans on his way inside the event.

Much like her famous boyfriend, Antonia is also in the entertainment industry.

The talented star is in fact a dancer, who has worked on some top TV shows, she has performed on both Dancing on Ice and Greece’s Got Talent.

Antonia is also an Influencer and boasts nearly 16K followers and she was first linked to Luke last year.

However, they went official with their romance when they turned up to the London premiere of Bridgerton season 3 holding hands.

During tonight’s awards ceremony, the Bafta reality prize went to Channel 4‘s The Jury: Murder Trial, beating the hit BBC psychological series The Traitors.

Ariyon Bakare has won the best supporting actor gong at the Bafta TV Awards for his role playing Morris De La Roux in BBC drama Mr Loverman.

The BBC also won the sport award for its coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics and an award in the live coverage category for Glastonbury Festival.

Best specialist factual went to BBC Two‘s Atomic People, which heard from those who witnessed the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The female performance in a comedy Bafta has been snapped up by Welsh comedian Ruth Jones for BBC sitcom Gavin And Stacey: The Finale.

Bafta TV 2025 Winners List

Here’s everyone who has taken home an award at tonight’s ceremony

Drama Series: Blue Lights

Leading Actor: Lennie James, Mr Loverman

Leading Actress: Marisa Abela, Industry

Entertainment: Would I Lie To You?

Entertainment Performance: Joe Lycett – Late Night Lycett

Factual Series: To Catch a Copper 

Factual Entertainment: Rob & Rylan’s Grand Tour

International: Shogun

Supporting Actor: Ariyon Bakare, Mr Loverman 

Supporting Actress: Jessica Gunning, Baby Reindeer 

Limited Drama: Mr Bates Vs The Post Office 

Male Performance in a Comedy: Danny Dyer, Mr Bigstuff 

Female Performance in a Comedy: Ruth Jones, Gavin and Stacey

Fellowship: Kirsty Wark

News Coverage: BBC Breakfast: Post Office Special

Reality: The Jury: Murder Trial

Scripted Comedy: Alma’s Not Normal 

Short Form: Quiet Life 

Single Documentary: Ukraine: Enemy in the Woods

Special Award: ITV – Mr Bates Vs The Post Office

Soap: EastEnders

Live Event Coverage: Glastonbury 2024

Specialist Factual: Atomic People 

Sports Coverage: Paris 2024 Olympics, BBC One

Children’s Non-Scripted: Disability and Me (FYI Investigates) 

Children’s Scripted: Cbeebies As You Like It At Shakespeare’s Globe 

Current Affairs: State of Rage

Daytime: Clive Myrie’s Caribbean Adventure

P&O Cruises Memorable Moment: Strictly Come Dancing – Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell dance to You’ll Never Walk Alone

“I’m not going to lie this is immense,” she said. “The person I would like to thank most his my dear, dear talented friend James Corden.”

While EastEnders won the TV BAFTA for best soap after their rival soap Emmerdale was forced to withdraw from the nominations.

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