FOR years, Victoria Beckham’s been branded the biggest spoilsport when it comes to a potential Spice Girls reunion – thanks to her refusal to ever sing on stage again.
Recent reports suggest Geri Horner is the one dragging her feet when it comes to arranging a Spice Girls reunionCredit: GettyAn insider source suggests Geri is once again vying to be top dogCredit: GettyThe Spice Girls are in discussion for plans to mark their 30th anniversaryCredit: Instagram
Yes, all evidence suggests that Geri’s doing what she’s always done behind the scenes – vying to be top dog. And if she doesn’t get her way, she’ll simply do what she did before: quit.
Speaking exclusively to the Sun, an insider tells us that whispers of Geri’s obstinance behind closed doors are nothing new.
We’re told: “Although it’s always Victoria who gets the reputation for being a diva, it’s actually Geri.
“There’s always been that slight distance between her and the rest of them as she did leave them high and dry at the biggest point of their career during that world tour in 1998 [when she shocked the world and left the band at the height of their fame and fortune].
“Obviously that was years and years ago and they’ve all moved on but the four others do have a slightly different bond. But Geri is quite selfish and will always put herself first to get what she wants and she likes to be the one in control making all the decisions.”
Earlier this week, The Sun revealed that Geri, Victoria and their fellow bandmates Emma Bunton, Mel B and Mel C have been involved in discussions ahead of the 30th anniversary of the release of their debut single Wannage next year.
According to sources: “A variety of projects are being talked about to mark the occasion, including a documentary and a possible tour or performance by the group.”
There’s also apparently hope of a biopic being made for Netflix by Orchid Pictures, which is headed by The Crown producer Suzanne Mackie.
But time is closing in on making a final decision – and Geri’s reportedly gone quiet, with insiders reporting she’s been “dragging her heels” for almost a year now.
Our source says Geri’s reluctance stems from a number of factors: one, she’s always been in the driving seat when it comes to the Spice Girls – ever since they first got put together in 1994.
Long-time fans might remember that Geri often positioned herself as the creative force behind the band, and was known to butt heads with their management.
She even infamously led the band’s coup against their then-manager Simon Fuller in 1997, firing him because he was too controlling.
They initially managed themselves in the aftermath – with Geri largely taking the reins – before subsequently taking on a different team to steer them forwards.
As a result, Geri has long been considered to be the de facto leader – a crown she’s worn proudly. The fact that she’s not the instigator of these latest plans is therefore apparently causing discomfort for Ginger Spice.
Geri long considered herself the group’s de facto leaderCredit: GettyGinger Spice led the band’s coup against manager Simon FullerCredit: GettyHer position of top dog has been put under pressure amid F1 husband Christian Horner’s scandalCredit: AFP
Racing legend Christian served as head of Red Bull for 20 years, but was let go as team principal in July following a slump in the team’s performance and amid reports of internal power struggles.
But the elephant in the room at his leaving-do was the fact that – just 12 months earlier – he’d been embroiled in a text scandal.
A female employee accused him of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour”, before an independent investigation cleared him of wrongdoing.
In the aftermath, Christian denied all allegations – and Geri loyally stood by him. But the controversy inevitably played a part in Christian’s Red Bull exit, and – according to sources – it did a number on Geri, who felt understandably humiliated.
Granted, Christian’s rumoured £80million payout will have softened the blow, but being married to Christian has always carried a certain sense of pride and prestige for Geri.
Geri’s still embarrassed by all the Christian allegations, and feels she’s lost some of the power she had
Insider
So, seeing his name dragged through the mud will have undoubtedly done a number on her.
Our insider reveals: “Geri’s still embarrassed by all the Christian allegations, and feels she’s lost some of the power she had.
“She now wants to be the one who plans all the 30th anniversary celebrations.”
Cheeky spice
On the face of it, Geri’s undoubtedly transformed before our eyes over the past 30 years.
Back in 1994, she assumed the highest rank among her new bandmates thanks to her ballsy attitude and outspoken antics – and that was something she dialled up when they hit it big.
Taking the title Ginger Spice with pride thanks to her box-dyed, flaming red hair, Geri earned a name for herself for being cheeky, headstrong, and loudly screaming “girl power!” to anyone who would listen.
The origins of that famous Spice Girls pop feminist slogan are debatable, but Geri’s certainly repeated it enough over the past three decades to claim a majority share in its inception.
The band took the lead from Geri when it came to their ballsy attitude and outspoken anticsCredit: Getty – ContributorGeri claimed not to have pinched Prince Charles’s bum… but have patted itCredit: Getty Images – GettyGeri seemed to drop her wild persona after she married Christian HornerCredit: Instagram/gerihalliwellhorner
Back then, part of her calling card was being messy, cheeky and pushing boundaries, like the time she kissed Prince Charles on the cheek – and, rumour has it, pinched his bum at the premiere of The Spice Girls’ movie Spiceworld in 1997.
She later clarified: “I didn’t pinch Prince Charles’ bum, as reported. I patted it.”
Meanwhile, her legendary Union Jack dress – which she boasted she’d made herself using a tea towel – became a lasting emblem of the band as a whole. As a result, Geri promulgated herself as the group’s mascot.
When she left the Spice Girls in May 1998 – saying at the time it was due to “differences between us” – she inevitably sirened the beginning of the end for the band.
The girls continued as a foursome for another album, but while Geri’s solo career soared, they couldn’t quite match their previous success – which, one can only assume, will have fed her feelings of importance all the more.
Over the years, feelings of bad blood softened – even as we learnt more and more about the in-fighting that had plagued the band, as it emerged that Geri and Mel B had often come to blows.
5 February, 2024 – The bombshell allegations from a female colleague about “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” drop
Red Bull chief exec Oliver Mitzlaff takes seriously and Horner strongly denies accusations.
9 February, 2024 Horner meets lawyer
A lawyer in charge of the investigation begins digging into the case on behalf of Red Bull GmbH in a nine-hour meeting at a secret location.
15 February, 2024 – Horner’s first public appearance since allegations
Horner says the team have been “tremendously supportive”. Verstappen says his relationship with Horner remains “very good”.
28 February, 2024 – Horner cleared of all charges
A statement from Red Bull GmbH read: “The independent investigation into the allegations made against Mr Horner is complete, and Red Bull can confirm that the grievance has been dismissed The complainant has a right of appeal.”
29 February, 2024 – WhatsApps leaked
Just 24 hours after he was cleared, WhatsApp texts and pictures were leaked from an anonymous source – to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali, the sport’s nine other team principals and members of the media.
2 March, 2024 – Horner and Halliwell hand in hand
The former Spice Girls singer puts on a united front with her husband as Verstappen soared to victory in the opener in Bahrain.
Horner declared he is “absolutely confident” he will stay on as Red Bull boss for the remainder of the season, while Red Bull’s majority shareholder, Thai billionaire Chalerm Yoovidhya, also joined the duo on the team’s terrace in a public show of support for Horner.
3 March, 2024 – Jos Verstappen takes aim
Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, claimed the team is “in danger of being torn apart” if Christian Horner remains in his role.
Verstappen Snr, also said the team would “explode” if Horner remained in his position, and denied being the source of the leak.
8 August, 2024 – Horner cleared for second time as appeal dismissed
During the F1 summer break, the appeal from a female colleague alleging “inappropriate behaviour” from Horner is dismissed, clearing him for a second time.
The complainant was suspended on full pay before launching an appeal but, on 8 August, her appeal was thrown out following another investigation by a different independent KC – with Red Bull adding that their “internal process has concluded.”
9 July, 2025 – Horner sacked.
In 2007, they reformed as a fivesome for the first time for their Return of the Spice Girls world tour, and Geri proudly flew the flag again – literally – in a Union Jack inspired outfit.
She may have mellowed slightly, but she still upheld that cheeky Ginger Spice persona that had initially made her famous.
A triumphant performance at the Olympics Closing Ceremony in 2012 reunited them again – followed by a photocall at the London premiere for the Spice Girls’ inspired West End musical, Viva Forever!
At the latter, Geri stood between her bandmates in a massive blue ballgown, again reminding us who was queen bee.
Who’s Posh?
But – over time – as Victoria’s fashion career skyrocketed, it became more and more difficult to maintain the Spice Girls as a five-piece.
Crucially, Victoria’s ambivalence to the band wasn’t sparked by any need for control; it was simply her coming to the inevitable conclusion that her talents lay elsewhere, and she gave them her blessing to continue regardless.
Ginger Spice now exclusively wears all-white and enjoys a country lifeCredit: Instagram/gerihalliwellhornerThe couple wed in 2015Credit: Doug Seeburg – The SunWhile Geri may appear to have softened on the outside, she’s just as headstrong as ever
In the meantime, Geri’s metamorphosis continued. Over time – and especially after meeting Christian in 2013 – she dropped the cheeky, outspoken, ballsy act, and started becoming….well, just a little Posh.
After she and Christian married in 2015, they settled in a country mansion in Oxfordshire, welcomed their son Monty, now eight (Geri’s also mum to Bluebell, 19, from a previous relationship), and duly became lord and lady of the manor.
In the process, Geri’s taken to wearing an all-white wardrobe, speaking in clipped vowels, and blushing at the memory of some of her more brassy stunts of the past.
When she and Mel B, Mel C and Emma reunited as a foursome for the Spice Girls’ second reunion tour in 2019, she directly addressed her twentysomething behaviour, saying she’d been a “brat” for leaving the band in 1998.
But – according to our source – while Geri may have softened on the outside, and now prefers cooking with her Aga and tending to her farm animals than causing a scene at showbiz events, she’s still just as headstrong as ever.
She may not be about to pinch a monarch’s bum anytime soon, but she refuses to be sidelined.
The others feel if Victoria is onboard, then they need to get it all sorted, and fear that Geri dragging her heels could cause Victoria to change her mind
Insider
So, now that she’s feeling on shaky ground as the group’s 30th anniversary approaches, we’re told she’s keeping her distance until they reassure her, in no uncertain terms, that she’s still de facto leader.
To that end, our insider says Geri kept a wide berth from the others when all five girls attended the premiere for Victoria’s new Netflix docuseries Victoria Beckham earlier this month.
Our source tells us: “Even at Victoria’s premiere, she kind of stayed away with Christian and his daughter, while Emma and Mel C mingled with everyone. Geri didn’t pose on the carpet with them.
“When The Spice Girls first got together, it was Geri and Mel B making most of the decisions because they were the loudest, but they’ve all found their voices and the others feel if Victoria is onboard, then they need to get it all sorted, and fear that Geri dragging her heels could cause Victoria to change her mind.
“But Geri likes to feel needed so will want them to be flattering her and giving her more control so that she agrees.”
Geri may be waiting to hear she’d still de facto leader before to agrees to a reunionCredit: GettyThe girls recently reunited at Victoria’s birthday partyCredit: InstagramTime will tell if Geri decides to make the 30th anniversary as special as it could beCredit: Rex
As rumours of in-fighting spread earlier this week, Geri took to Instagram, upholding her reinvention as the true Posh Spice by announcing she’d be appearing at The Royal Commonwealth Society’s Christmas Concert in December.
She told fans she was “looking forward” to it – while making no mention of the big music milestone anniversary on the horizon.
It seems the issue comes down to power: who wants it absolutely, and who’s willing to share.
Geri may have long trailblazed the world’s need for girl power, but she might just have been talking about one specific girl only: herself.
Big Brother host AJ Odudu announced a huge change to the show’s voting system for Friday’s eviction after housemate George Gilbert was removed from the house earlier today
Yesterday, the housemates nominated for the first time, and it was revealed that George, Elsa, Richard and Cameron B would be facing the public vote. George, Elsa and Cameron B received the most amount of votes from their fellow housemates, and Richard was atomically up as he had the cursed eye.
Addressing the situation as she opened Big Brother’s Late and Live tonight, host AJ Odudu said: “George was removed from the Big Brother house today following repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour.
“As he was up for eviction, the vote has been closed for now. So if you’ve voted already, your votes don’t count. But new votes between Cameron B, Elsa and Richard will be opening tomorrow and you’ll have five new votes. So tune in tomorrow to see the housemates reaction to the news.”
In a statement following George’s removal, ITV told The Mirror: “Following repeated use of unacceptable language and behaviour, George has been removed from the Big Brother House with immediate effect and will no longer participate in the programme.”
It was later revealed that George’s comments will not be aired on the show as they are contrary to broadcast standards. Contestants were told the rules regarding language and behaviour ahead of entering the Big Brother house, receiving training in respect, dignity and inclusion.
However, later on in the day, it was reported that George left his co-stars horrified after making offensive comments which could be interpreted as antisemitic. “Everyone was absolutely disgusted,” a source revealed to The Sun. “Nobody could believe what he said – he was clearly out to shock people.”
It’s been reported that he was called into the Diary Room after making the comments, and was immediately ejected from the show.
George received a warning over his behaviour earlier in the week after imitating housemate Sam during a game of Truth or Dare. He was told by Big Brother in the diary room: “At 11:26, during a game of Truth or Dare, when asked about your least favourite qualities of other Housemates, you said the following, ‘Sam, um too…’, you then went on to mimic Sam using both noises that mocked the way Sam talks and body language that included limp wrists.
“Do you understand how both your language and behaviour could be offensive to Sam, your Housemates and the viewing public?” George then said that he had apologised to Sam after making the comments.
However, The Mirror understands that George was given several warnings for unacceptable language which were not broadcast as they were contrary to broadcast standards.
Paul C Brunson called MAFS bride Sarah out on her behaviourCredit: Channel 4
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Sarah began to cry following Paul’s commentsCredit: Channel 4
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Sarah tried to justify her behaviour to DeanCredit: Channel 4
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The MAFS experts pulled Sarah up for her behaviour towards Dean at last night’s dinner partyCredit: E4
Tonight the experts called Sarah out at the first Commitment Ceremony.
They were left disgusted at her behaviour during last night’s dinner party, as they thought she had acted disrespectfully towards Dean, after she complained to the other couples about her husband’s appearance.
It came after Sarah told everyone she spoke to that there was “no spark” or “attraction there” and doesn’t think there ever will be.
The girls confirmed that she had the “ick” while the boys persuaded her to give him a chance as he is a “lovely guy”.
But Sarah was having none of it.
This evening, viewers watched as Married At First Sight expert Paul pulled her up on her behaviour.
“What are you willing to change?,” he asked Sarah.
“Do you think that you were rude while talking about your partner at the dinner party?”
Not holding back Paul continued: “| get the challenge around physical attraction, but where you absolutely lost me is when you went around gossiping about your husband to other people and you were laughing at it.”
But Sarah didn’t take well to the criticism and she started to cry after she and Dean made the decision to “stay” in the experiment.
MAFS ‘most hated bride’ breaks down in tears after fat-shaming groom
Sobbing she said: “It was really hard to hear what Paul had to say and I apologize, and yeah, I’m sorry, it’s not me, it’s not who I am.
“And maybe if I did have that spark, I wouldn’t have said anything like that because I wouldn’t have.
But there’s not the spark there, so that’s, that was the only reason why I said it.”
Fully crying now, Sarah continued: “I haven’t meant it maliciously at all. I don’t want to hurt anyone.
“I’m being true to myself, but then it’s coming across really badly.”
‘Relieved’ BBC Breakfast editor Richard Frediani has reportedly been ‘cleared’ after a review into his behaviour and will be continuing his duties
08:08, 09 Sep 2025Updated 08:08, 09 Sep 2025
‘Relieved’ BBC Breakfast editor ‘cleared after review’ into behaviour(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast’s editor, Richard Frediani, has reportedly been ‘cleared’ of bad behaviour by bosses amid a ‘feud’ with presenter Naga Munchetty. During the summer, it was claimed that show boss Richard went on extended leave on the flagship show after complaints about his behaviour.
One source told the Mirror: “He is not a bully at all and the truth will come out. He’s a great boss and was – and is still – overwhelmingly loved by the team, who respect his drive, expertise, and journalistic ambition. He has delivered great audiences and the first ever Bafta for breakfast TV.
Richard Frediani was reportedly cleared(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/James Stack)
“He can be brash and opinionated but works so hard for his team and allows people to flourish.”
Three months on, it was reported that the BBC conducted an interview review of the bullying allegations, with the broadcaster conducting 70 sessions and a ‘listening exercise’ with staff.
Richard, who is said to be ‘relieved’ with the outcome, reportedly told staff he was in the clear and would be continuing with his duties as editor.
Naga and Charlie are reportedly ‘furious’ with the outcome(Image: BBC)
“He’s in a significantly more secure place than he was. And I think he’s had a lot of support from people on the team who have come out and said he’s a great editor,” a support told The Times.
“Not everyone on the team because there are divided loyalties, but he is in a much better place.”
A spokesperson for the BBC told the Mirror: “While we do not comment on individual HR matters, we take all complaints about conduct at work extremely seriously.”
A source claimed Naga and co-host Charlie Stayt were ‘furious’ about Richard being ‘cleared’ to return to his duties.
“Naga and Charlie are furious and feel like the BBC have backed him over them,” they told The Sun. “No one would be surprised if they ended up leaving.”
In July, an insider told the publication that Naga was looking for a new job. While the presenter ‘loves the BBC’, her team reportedly ‘renewed talks’ with other companies.
They said: “Her team last week renewed talks with LBC. The Global Radio station would suit her as there’s far less of the fluffy nonsense that’s involved in working at the BBC.”
Meanwhile, the BBC’s annual salary was previously published and Naga was revealed to be earning almost double her co-host Charlie’s pay.
Charlie has stayed within the £190,000 salary band, whereas Naga enjoyed a £10,000 increase to her earnings, moving from £345,000 to £355,000.
The Mirror have reached out to the BBC and the representatives of Charlie and Naga for comment.
Moments later, the 38-year-old was involved in an altercation with a Sounders staff member and was held back by team-mate Oscar Ustari before appearing to spit in the coach’s direction.
“I feel bad about what happened, and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to acknowledge it and apologise to everyone who felt hurt by what I did,” added Suarez.
Speculation has circulated about the extent of any punishment he may face but Suarez added he wants to aid Inter Miami’s push to make the MLS Cup play-offs.
“We know there’s still a lot of the season ahead, and we’re going to work together to achieve the successes that this club and all of its fans deserve,” he wrote.
Suarez is no stranger to controversy.
The former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid striker has been involved in several controversial incidents during his career.
In 2011 when at Liverpool, Suarez was given an eight-match ban after being found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United full-back Patrice Evra.
He also served bans for three separate biting incidents when playing for Ajax, Liverpool and Uruguay.
Tearfully recalling the moment, she said: “I saw Leo on his bike perched up against a wall, and he was talking to himself as if he had an imaginary friend, and it made me fall in love with him so much.
“But equally and probably one of the reasons why it’s jerking tears is because, I guess for a second I thought, ‘oh god is this because he doesn’t have any siblings?’’.
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As Ryan attempted to reassure his emotional partner, she revealed her first time mum fears that Leo’s behaviour was “abnormal.”
He reflected: “I think that’s very normal for kids, I’m pretty sure I had imaginary friends.”
To this, Louise shared: “I guess Leo’s our only child and we’re still first-time parents and navigating all of those milestones for the first time.
“And you don’t really know what to expect when you have one child, you have nothing to compare it to, so I didn’t know whether that was normal.”
However, she then claimed a fan had got in touch with her to tell her that a child having an imaginary friend was a “sign of intelligence.”
Alongside the podcast clip, Louise wrote: “First-time parenting really is just learning on the go, isn’t it?
Louise Thompson’s fiance Ryan admits he ‘resented her’ after traumatic birth of son where she asked him ‘am I dying?’
“Every week there’s something new, something that makes you stop and think.
“It can feel scary, but it’s also the most rewarding thing in the world.”
I worried that it was because we haven’t been able to give Leo a sibling yet
Louise Thompson
Opening up about the support from fans, the brunette beauty wrote: “One of my followers messaged me to say that having an imaginary friend at a young age is a sign of intelligence.
“That was really kind of her because as an anxious first time mum navigating this whole world as each milestone passes, I worried that it was because we haven’t been able to give Leo a sibling yet.”
Numerous other fans followed and eagerly rushed to the comments to share their support and reassure Louise that Leo’s behaviour was in fact “normal”, as one said: “Bless though wonderful mummy tears. That raw protective emotion we feel is unmatched to one another.”
A second chimed in: “All the only children I know are so smart, great with people of all ages and very capable and independent thinkers.”
Is it selfish having an only child?
MARRIED gift company owner Calypso, 40, has a five-year-old son. She says:
I took great pride in being an only child. That’s why I deliberately have just the one.
I never felt I was missing out on anything through not having a sibling. There was never a time when I craved a brother or sister.
It was not until I was in junior school, aged eight, that I gave it any thought. I wasn’t a loner – I had lots of friends – but the advantage was I got to have time alone too.
I’d make up games or draw for hours. If anything, being an only child stretched my imagination.
Mum worked long hours in the TV industry. People might think it’s glamorous but working freelance meant she couldn’t afford to have another child, financially or time-wise.
I’ve always been told I have “only child” traits, like working for myself or being a bit bossy. And I’m the first to say I am headstrong. I certainly don’t take to being told what to do, either.
I’d always known I would have just the one child – and that’s because I like my independence. We get to go away. I cycle everywhere with my son on the back of my bike and we live on a canal boat.
It’s a life we all love and it wouldn’t work with four of us. I also have more time for my other half, as my mum is very happy to look after one child.
I like an easy life. I just don’t know how parents cope with three kids. One child is enough for me to parent. I like my moments of peace and I don’t enjoy chaos.
I’ve got enough energy, resources and focus to make sure he gets my attention to live his best life.
It’s working so far. He hasn’t noticed that he doesn’t have any brothers or sisters.
He thrives on having lots of “Mum and Dad time”. My husband has a brother yet he wasn’t fussed about having more than one kid. He also prefers an easy life.
With the financial resources we have, I can give my son a good life filled with love, adventure and my undivided attention.
Maybe I’m selfish but we are working to our capabilities to keep a happy and healthy family unit.
Meanwhile, a third penned: ”I have a daughter, only child, and I still worry and she’s 33! She is the kindest, most grounded girl and I’m so proud of her….. you’re doing an amazing job.”
At the same time, one mother explained: “Our 5-year-old daughter used to have an imaginary friend called Boxy. I was worried at first but it’s very normal and also a sign of great imagination. I love her for it.”
With the desire to extend her family in the future, Louise has also spoken of difficulties and admitted she will “never carry another child.”
Our 5-year-old daughter used to have an imaginary friend called Boxy. It’s very normal and also a sign of great imagination
Instagram user
She told Grazia: “For a long time I was so triggered by babies – I couldn’t look at people’s babies and pregnancy announcements and those sorts of things.
“The tricky thing for us is that this just isn’t really possible in the conventional way because I’m not going to carry another child.
“I really wanted to freeze my eggs and some embryos last year, but I was overcoming my stoma surgery for a good chunk and then that was when I started to feel really well.
“And I feel like I slightly missed the boat but I can’t put the blame on myself because there wasn’t really an appropriate time before I started taking a bit of a dip again.”
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The mum-of-one received a flood of support from fansCredit: instagram/@hesaid.shesaid.podcast
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Many reassured her and praised her son’s “great imagination”Credit: Instagram
A self-professed ‘germaphobe’ says she’s been left alarmed by her husband’s ‘vile’ behaviour during a long-haul flight, and now fears she may never get past the serious ‘ick’ she’s been left with
She’s now struggling to get past her husband’s ‘vile’ behaviour (Stock Photo)(Image: Getty Images)
A woman says she was left so “horrified” by her husband’s behaviour during their first long-haul flight together that she is struggling to get over it.
According to this disturbed wife, she and her husband travelled domestically together across the US on a number of occasions, apparently without issue.
In an anguished agony aunt letter, penned to MailOnline’s Jane Green, the traveller recalled how, after positioning his eye masks and neck pillow, her husband then proceeded to make himself really at home by removing his shoes and socks.
Admitting that the incident has given her a “huge ick” that she’s struggling to move on from, the wife, who went only by the pseudonym ‘Turbulent Romantic’ wrote: “I was horrified as I then watched him also take a trip to the restroom without bothering to put anything on his feet. Yuck!
“I am a total germaphobe and would never remove my shoes – let alone my socks – to walk around on an aeroplane. It must have been because the trip was so long, but it made me wonder how I have never realised his vile uncleanliness.
“Worse, when we got off the plane and arrived at the hotel, he refused to shower before going to sleep. Is there a way to move past this?”
In response to Turbulent Romantic’s desperate plea, Jane sympathised with her shudders, confessing that she herself lives with “footphobia”. However, the wise agony aunt appeared optimistic that the couple could move past this episode, which they may well look back on in time as a “funny story”.
Offering her suggestions, Jane advised actually opening up to her husband about her “ick” rather than letting it fester, adding that some compromise on both sides may be needed on this occasion.
She urged: “Talk to him and explain that you are a germaphobe – that you have a real problem both with his walking around a plane barefooted and with his refusal to shower before getting into clean sheets.
“He may laugh. He may find you ridiculous. But all marriages are about compromise. If you have a serious issue with this – and the fact you are writing suggests this is indeed serious – then he ought to listen.
“Of course, we can never guarantee what anyone will do, but if he is engaging in behaviour that upsets you, the loving thing to do is find a compromise. Perhaps he uses socks that are reserved only for when he’s on aeroplanes?”
Cruise holidays are a popular choice for many Brits, with the buffet being a key attraction. However, there are some rules that guests are expected to follow in the dining area
Holidaymakers warned about common cruise buffet behaviour to avoid(Image: Marina113 via Getty Images)
One of the first destinations that holidaymakers dash towards when boarding a cruise ship is undoubtedly the buffet.
The cruise buffet, or indeed any buffet, proves irresistibly attractive for two key reasons – the freedom to fill your own plate without being confined by a fixed menu, plus the obvious draw of unlimited dining for a set cost.
The appeal of these elements can frequently result in poor judgment regarding what conduct is and isn’t suitable in a communal environment.
Panache Cruises founder James Cole insisted: “When you booked your cruise you promised to adhere to a set of rules governing your conduct and behaviour when on-board your ship.”, reports the Express.
Speaking about the repercussions of engaging in ‘disapproved’ behaviour, he continued: “Disruptive passengers can be charged a fine or forcibly removed from the ship if they disobey the captain’s and crew members’ instructions, smoke in prohibited areas or throw things overboard.”
The queue can prove either the most relaxed or the most heated location in the restaurant.
Adhering to some fundamental etiquette rules and seeking crew assistance can prove invaluable in securing what you desire, and promptly.
Avoid pressing too close to fellow diners in the line, honour others’ personal boundaries, and ensure those surrounding you have adequate room. James explained: “Although you may be hungry and eager to head to the buffet, remember that your fellow passengers are likely feeling the same way, and your wants and needs don’t supersede theirs.
“Be patient and wait for your turn and if you really can’t wait to tuck into your food then make sure to have a snack in-between meal times.”
Another buffet blunder is nibbling whilst still queuing up. Hold off until you’re seated and avoid eating while standing in line.
It’s important to follow cruise etiquette(Image: Getty)
The cruise specialist observed: “Don’t worry about dishes at the buffet and get a new plate, glass or mug every time you wish to top up on your food or drinks.
“You may think you’re doing them a favour by reducing the number of dirty dishes, but it’s actually frowned upon due to sanitary purposes.”
A Reddit user, JusteUnAutreGars, commented: “If you’re having dessert after your main course, you would want another plate. It’s all about not mixing up the flavours and spices of your food.”
Visitors are generally permitted to collect fresh crockery from one of the stations, plus return to the buffet as frequently as they wish.
Another Reddit contributor, frannyGin, remarked: “Use designated tongs and spoons only to transport food to your plate and don’t ever put tong A for dish A in dish B. That’s what causes cross contamination and makes it unnecessarily difficult for people with allergies.”
EastEnders fans have been left ‘disgusted’ by Suki’s suggestions since learning about her granddaughter Avani’s pregnancy – but they don’t think she’ll be getting away scot-free…
19:50, 29 Jul 2025Updated 20:08, 29 Jul 2025
EastEnders fans have been left ‘disgusted’ by Suki’s behaviour (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Tonight’s EastEnders left some fans feeling “uncomfortable” as Suki Panesar once again tried to convince her granddaughter Avani Nandra-Hart not to have an abortion.
During tonight’s episode, Avani was seen in the clinic, waiting to have a termination, with Suki by her side. However, during the long waiting times, her grandmother continued to raise her concerns – trying to change Avani’s mind. Suki even went as far as to suggesting she’d pay for everything Avani would need to carry the baby.
Eventually, Suki told Avani she would stop pressuring her but as the nurse came tell Avani they were ready to see her, the teen, who is pregnant with Joel’s baby, changed her mind. Suki looked relieved, but at the moment she’s the only one who knows about the pregnancy.
Parents Priya and Ravi are none the wiser, but fans are certain Suki won’t get away lightly when they find out what she’s been saying to their daughter. Plus, a few weeks ago we saw Ravi fuming when he realised Suki let Bernie get away with their money – will it all get too much for him?
Right now, it seems like he’s too preoccupied drug dealing with Harry and Okie – but fans are sure he’ll drop everything when he finds out what’s going on with his daughter.
Fans think Suki will be ‘mincemeat’ when Priya and Ravi find out(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan wrote: “Priya is going to make mincemeat out of Suki when this all comes out,” as another penned: “There’s a lot of other things Suki hasn’t considered: Ravi and Priya, Joel and his family, Avani changes her mind last minute. When it comes out about the pregnancy, no doubt the social worker would get involved.”
Elsewhere, fans have been left “disgusted” by Suki’s “manipulation” towards her granddaughter. After watching the episode, fuming fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter to express their dismay.
It’s been an eventful few weeks for the Panesars(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)
One fan penned: “Suki manipulating Avani into keeping her baby is so gross. She’s never been a nice person but this is just disgusting.”
“I feel what Suki is doing to Avani is worse then when she faked having cancer and feel she may not be redeemed ( and I’m speaking as a #Sukeve fan) Really worrying behaviour from her recently towards Avani,” wrote a second.
A third penned: “Today’s #eastenders was actually quite uncomfortable to watch – Suki’s constant harassment of Avani, wanting to control her and wanting to make decisions about her body are so disgusting.”
Will Avani go ahead with Suki’s plans or will Ravi and Priya find out?
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Spanish tourists have been handed a list of 10 strict rules they must follow while visiting Malaga. The new campaign by the local council is aimed at reducing bad behaviour
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter and Hannah Ahmed
04:00, 21 Jul 2025
The city has launched the ‘Improve your Stay’ campaign (Image: Holger Leue via Getty Images)
The local authority’s “Improve your stay in Málaga drive features a comprehensive list of 10 guidelines that travellers are encouraged to follow, in a bid to curb inappropriate behaviour. The guidelines tackle a broad spectrum of problems, ranging from attire standards and hygiene to sound disturbance and the responsible operation of bicycles and e-scooters.
Tourists are being urged to remain considerate and behave in a manner that respects peaceful coexistence with residents of the local community.
Additional measures highlighted by the council include the ‘Keep the City Clean’ drive, requesting visitors to utilise the rubbish bins available and the public conveniences scattered throughout the city, whilst also ensuring respect for historic sites, green spaces, and municipal amenities such as park seating.
Local authorities have also emphasised the significance of refraining from shouting or blasting music during evening hours in residential neighbourhoods, advising tourists to “do not be conspicuous.” Dressing suitably within the city represents another concern mentioned, with the council stating simply “dress completely.”
This likely refers to avoiding venturing into urban areas shirtless or in swimwear, as such clothing is only acceptable on the beach.
A further aspect of the initiative concentrates on transportation, with the message “Sidewalks Are for Pedestrians,” highlighting that cycles and scooters must stick to their designated routes. The initiative has received extensive promotion – across social media platforms, on buses and at every essential location throughout the city.
Málaga has previously tackled reports of antisocial conduct by ramping up penalties for violations including dropping litter and excessive noise levels.
The previous year also witnessed pandemonium surrounding overtourism in the city, with locals marching through the streets in protest against the deluge of visitors. Residents argued they were being forced out of their communities due to short-term holiday rentals, whilst also voicing concerns about disruptive behaviour and certain tourists’ conduct.
During the peak of the protests, some demonstrators even stuck anti-tourism stickers throughout the area, featuring messages such as “This used to be my home”, “go f****** home”, “stinking of tourist” and “this used to be the city centre,” used.
Protests regarding mass tourism and anti-tourism sentiment took place across Spain throughout 2024, with numerous campaigns continuing into 2025. In the opening quarter of 2025, Spain reportedly received 17.1 million overseas visitors. For the complete year of 2024, this number reached a record-shattering 94 million.
The nation remains particularly beloved by Brits, who descend upon the country seeking a sunny getaway.
Unsurprisingly, Love Island’s Movie Night caused quite the stir in the villa, with the big screen’s revelations causing Helena Ford to confront Harry once again – leaving viewers fuming
Harry enraged Love Island fans(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Love Island fans were left raging after Sunday night’s episode, after one contestant’s “manipulative” behaviour got too much to take. Harry Cooksley, 30, had rubbed viewers up the wrong way with his popcorn-eating, leaving them feeling ill.
The ITV show’s ever-dramatic Movie Night left islanders reeling after they saw clips of incriminating conversations projected on the big screen for all to see. But it was Harry who left them all fuming, with his partner on the show, Helena Ford, confronting him about his actions.
She told him: “I’m getting fed up with this ‘I only do it to Helena because she lets me get away with it’… you’re making me look stupid again! Literally every person that comes into the Villa says, ‘you let Harry walk all over you.'”
Despite previously breaking up and recoupling, Harry went on to deny intentionally upsetting Helena. But Sunday night’s episode saw viewers take issue with the way he continued to eat leftover popcorn while she was trying to speak to him.
Harry was slammed by fuming Love Island fans(Image: ITV/Love Island)
Shakira, who was speaking with Toni, said that watching him eat was making her feel sick. Fans agreed, taking to social media to share their thoughts.
One wrote: “There’s no way I’m trying to have a serious conversation with a man and he’s answering with a mouthful of popcorn not even looking at omg.” Another commented: “Oh my days, Shakira is so right, Harry is making me feel sick too cause WHY IS HE EATING LIKE THAT IS HE FIVE?”
A third fan echoed: “I hate the way Harry ate his popcorn during that conversation with Helena; he doesn’t take anything seriously.” Someone else typed: “I would have f****** thrown that popcorn over Harry if he was eating like that when I was trying to have a serious conversation with him.”
Harry and Helena have even got under Maya Jama’s skin(Image: ITV)
Even Maya Jama had something to say after Harry had been up to his old tricks in Casa Amor. Shortly after she was reunited with Harry, Helena was introduced to dumped islander Rheo Parnell, who had grown close to Harry in Casa Amor. Rheo said: “I don’t think I need to explain what he may have been up to over there. Harry strikes again!”
Helena asked: “How bad are we talking?” Rheo replied: “Well, I mean there were kisses in bed. There was like … cuddles.” Amid discussion about his latest antics, Harry said that he had been “exploring the connection” whilst in the other villa.
Andrada Pop added: “I did ask Harry did he miss Helena and he said he didn’t.” Helena reacted: “To be fair, I think I did say I didn’t miss Harry on the first day either.” Helena and Harry were then seen laughing together over the situation.
Rheo said: “Fair enough.” Love Island host Maya then shared her thoughts, saying: “I don’t know. I probably wouldn’t find it that funny if I was in a couple with someone like that but…”
Jamie Rhodes said: “Yeah, I can’t lie, this is like repeated behaviour. Like you gotta wake up at some point.” After confirming he was talking to Helena, he added: “Personally, I think you deserve more respect.”
Maya – who also confronted Ben Holbrough in the episode over a comment that he made in another scene – said: “Helena, you laugh quite a lot when he’s been doing things. Is that to avoid upset or are you genuinely not bothered?”
Tensions hit boiling point in Casa Amor as one Islander’s behaviour sparks fury among viewers after a string of questionable decisions and disrespectful moments
Love Island fans demand for boy to be axed after ‘disgusting behaviour’ in Casa(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Love Island viewers have called for Harrison to be axed from the iconic villa after his ‘disgusting behaviour’ in tonight’s episode. Just days before Casa Amor kicked off, Harrison, 22, had shared his devotion to Toni, 25, after kicking Helena, 29, to the curb and finally ending the never-ending love-triangle which left Toni in tears on multiple occasions.
After making her cry on her birthday, Harrison finally decided that Toni was the one for him as he told Helena that he only wanted to get to know Toni from here on out. However, just mere minutes into his Casa Amor adventure, Harrison made it crystal clear that his feelings for Toni were not as strong as he made out.
In tonight’s explosive episode, Harrison locked lips with the girl he fancies most, until the group had to step in and call time on the unusually long snog. And when asked to rate his connection with Toni, Harrison told the group: “Seven, could be better.”
Love Island fans are not happy with Harrison(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
Viewers were naturally left fuming by his actions and admission given that he had told Toni just days previous that all of his attention was on her after finally admitting that he likes her. Toni accepted Harrison’s apology and graciously gave him yet another chance, however, his actions have once again landed him in trouble.
“Harrison is literally the worst kind of human. He needs to be axed from the villa ASAP. Toni is a queen and deserves the world,” one viewer ranted. Another agreed: “Harrison is such a slimy little boy. He should count himself LUCKY that Toni is even giving him the time of day.”
Someone else echoed: “I actually cannot stand that Harrison!!!!!! Thinks he’s literally the bees knees when he’s just a silly little boy. Telling Toni one thing and everyone else a different story???? Two-faced coward.”
Harrison has been in a love-triangle with Toni and Helena(Image: ITV/Shutterstock)
It became clear within minutes that tensions were high in Casa Amor and that the boys were not wasting any time. On their first night, Dejon kicked things off with a flirty round of Truth or Dare to break the ice. Things quickly heated up fast as Ben dived in with a bold three-way kiss, including Harry’s ex, Emma.
Harry then soon came face to face with his ex girlfriend Emma, who greeted him with a cheeky: “Surprise!” He later confirmed the ‘E’ tattoo on his wrist is, indeed, for her.
As the Islanders chatted about their types, Yaz said she needs emotional depth in a partner. Emma didn’t miss a beat, leaning toward Harry and saying: “Well that’s you out.”
Helena has been causing havoc with the other couples(Image: ITV)
Meanwhile, Tommy didn’t hold back with the new arrivals: “There’s definitely a few of you that tickle my fancy.”
After the shock of her entrance, Harry and his ex Emma finally caught up, and he said: “I don’t need you to come and tell me off.” But Emma has no plans to stay quiet as she called him out on his bad behaviour with Helena.
“It’s disgraceful though… like, how are you still doing the same thing?” she said. “The way you’ve been moving with Helena honestly… you two deserve each other… two snakes.”
The former head of the Royal Navy has had his service terminated following an investigation into his behaviour, the Ministry of Defence has said.
Admiral Sir Ben Key’s behaviour was found to have “fallen far short of the values and standards expected of service personnel” a statement said.
In response, Adm Key said: “I deeply regret my conduct in the spring of last year, which fell well below the standard I set for myself and that which I set for the Royal Navy.”
He added that he fully accepted the decision and was “very sorry to those I have hurt personally”.
At the end of his statement, Adm Key said he was “very grateful” for the support of his wife, family and friends during what he described as “a very difficult time”.
Adm Key was due to retire from his position this summer, after serving as the head of the Royal Navy since 2021.
He was removed from his duties in May because of the investigation into allegations of misconduct.
Reports in the Sun at the time suggested Adm Key had been having an affair with a more junior female colleague.
Such relationships are frowned upon and seen as a potential abuse of power and contrary to the military service code of conduct.
Chief of Defence Staff, Adm Sir Tony Radakin, said: “We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our service personnel and our civil servants.
“We investigate all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and will take robust action against anyone found to have fallen short of our standards, regardless of their seniority.”
Adm Key joined the navy as a university cadet in 1984 where he later qualified as both helicopter aircrew and as a principal warfare officer. As a junior officer he saw service around the world in a variety of frigates and destroyers.
He was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016 and a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in the 2021 New Years Honours List.
He was appointed to first sea lord in November 2021 and is succeeded by Gen Sir Gwyn Jenkins of the Royal Marines.
A family looking forward to a two-week holiday at a five-star hotel in Jamaica were left shocked after an adults-only festival hosted by the resort led to ‘all hell breaking loose’
Liverpool mum Katie had been eagerly looking forward to her TUI holiday in Jamaica, but says her stay there was ruined by raunchy guests who exhibited “sexual behaviour […] for all to see”.
During an appearance on BBC’s Rip Off Britain, Katie and her sister Rachel spoke of Jamaica as their “second home”, and somewhere where they regularly take their children to visit relatives.
According to Katie, whose husband lives in the Caribbean island nation, it’s important for her children to stay connected to their dual culture. She shared: “Jamaica is our second home. We’re really, really proud of the island and love the culture.”
Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the children hadn’t been able to visit their grandparents in Jamaica for two years. And so, the family booked a two-week stay at the Luxury Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in Montego Bay.
The group of 24 family and friends spent approximately £15,000 on their booking, which should have been a dream holiday. Unfortunately, things allegedly took a turn.
What should have been a dream holiday, unfortunately, took a very different turn(Image: INTERNET)
At first, the five-star hotel appeared perfect, with the group impressed by the delicious food, gorgeous grounds, and the great service provided by members of staff. The resort advertised plenty of family-friendly facilities, including watersports and a kids’ pool, and felt like the ideal place to bring little ones.
Then, four days into their stay, the tone changed when the group learned the hotel was hosting a four-day music festival, Fantasy Island. Marketed as an adults-only festival, Fantasy Island was attended by some 700 revellers, who apparently “didn’t care” whether or not their antics were suitable for children.
The adults only Fantasy Island festival was attended by some 700 revellers(Image: INTERNET)
The sisters shared: “All hell broke loose. The main pool was overtaken. People were drinking like fish. It’s fine if it’s in a nightclub, not morning time around a pool with children. There was sexual behaviour going on at the pool bar for all to see. They didn’t care if there were children there.”
After Katie complained to the hotel manager and TUI rep, she was offered four free nights by the hotel, while TUI offered them £150 per person in vouchers or £100 in cash. They believe this compensation just wasn’t enough.
Katie and Rachel weren’t the only guests to take issue with the Fantasy Island event. NHS worker Emma Owen and her family were drawn to the hotel due to its family-friendly appeal, and paid £7,000 for an 11-night all-inclusive break. She recalled seeing attendees “vomit in the pool” as the festival got underway.
Those drawn to the resort’s family-friendly ethos were left dismayed(Image: INTERNET)
Travel expert Lisa Minot stated: “It really is down to the tour operator to inform their guests that there is going to be a significant change or impact on their holiday.”
A TUI spokesperson previously told the Daily Express: “We’re very sorry that some of our customers’ holidays were impacted by this unexpected event at the Grand Palladium Resort and Spa in August 2021.
“While the hotel did not make us aware in advance, we understand how upsetting this was, and have offered a refund for the full four days, along with our sincere apologies. We’d like to reassure customers that this hotel will no longer be hosting this event.”
The Mirror has reached out to TUI for additional comment.
British holidaymakers Mark and Karen Gregory, both 50, are frequent Benidorm-goers and usually opt to stay at apartments – but their accommodation often overlooks major hotel pools
Holidaymakers at a Benidorm hotel have been filmed participating in a frantic “sunbed dash”, where every available lounger is claimed within a staggering three minutes.
Frequent Spain holidaymakers Mark and Karen Gregory, both 50, typically opt for apartment accommodations that often overlook major hotel pools, giving them a front-row seat to the morning mayhem.
During their May trip, the couple from Swansea, Wales, captured multiple instances of sun-hungry Brits racing to secure the best sunbeds. Mark, who runs an online sales business, recounted: “We saw people queuing from first thing – the queues were horrendous! People were properly running in.
“One hotel we did stay in, the pool opened at 8.30am and by 8.33am every bed had a towel on. I think it happens everywhere – just because hotels don’t have as many beds as they do guests.”
The pair prefer to observe the chaos rather than participate. Mark added: “We don’t partake at all, we just observe. I know it’s a bugbear for a lot of tourists – but we just find it funny.”
Making sure you have a good spot by the pool or beach is serious business. And the stakes are high.
The team at travel insurance comparison site Tiger.co.uk have warned Brits heading on Spain holidays to think twice before laying out a towel on the beach, as it could actually land you facing some hefty extra charges.
They explained: “In popular areas of Spain like Barcelona and Costa Blanca, tourists can now be fined €250 for reserving sunbeds, meaning waking up early to bag a spot for you and the family is no longer allowed. This rule was introduced following numerous complaints about sunbeds being reserved for hours with no one in sight.”
The rules were brought into force last year, in a bid to stop tourists from reserving spots on public beaches with towels and sunbeds, despite then not returning for hours a time – meaning other visitors had to make do with leftover space, causing issues such as fights breaking out, or crowding.
The fines don’t always stop poor behaviour, however.
While having a late-night chinwag on their balcony in Magaluf, Spain, Mandy Boyd spotted some lads she thought were having a cheeky swim in the pool. But upon closer inspection, the 34-year-old realised the young men were trying to nab the best beds at 2am, despite the fact that the pool wasn’t due to open until 9am the next day.
The quartet of girls watched as the lads dragged out their sunloungers to try and secure prime spots. Mandy and her mates patiently waited on the balcony for the perfect moment to dash down and swipe the towels.
Washington, DC – It was the 250th birthday of the United States Army, and Trump’s 79th.
Tanks and other armoured military vehicles rumbled down the streets of Washington, DC, on Saturday, in what Trump had teased as an “unforgettable” event and critics had called a pricey tribute to the “egoist-in-chief”.
Speaking after the hour-long procession, which cut through a balmy evening dotted with raindrops, Trump framed the spectacle as a long time coming.
“Every other country celebrates their victories. It’s about time America did, too,” he told the crowd, which sprawled sparsely across the National Mall.
“That’s what we’re doing tonight,” he said.
Vice President JD Vance, who introduced the president at the end of the parade, was the only official to acknowledge the dual birthdays.
“June 14th is, of course, the birthday of the army. It is, of course, the birthday of the president of the United States,” he said. “Happy birthday, Mr President.”
For critics, the overlapping dates sent a disconcerting message.
Away from the celebrations, among about 100 protesters at Logan Circle in Washington, DC, Terry Mahoney, a 55-year-old Marine veteran, described the parade as “dictator behaviour”.
“If you take everything else he’s done, stomping on the US Constitution, this parade may just be window dressing,” he told Al Jazeera.
Soldiers march during a military parade to commemorate the US Army’s 250th Birthday in Washington, DC [Brian Snyder/Reuters]
“But it’s the worst kind of window dressing,” said Mahoney, who was among the tens of thousands of protests who took to the streets nationally to oppose Trump’s leadership on Saturday. “So I wanted to make sure that my voice was represented today.”
But blocks away, near the entrance to the heavily fortified parade route, Taras Voronyy, who travelled from South Carolina, was less concerned about the blurred lines of the parade than the soldiers it was honouring.
“It’s a chance to celebrate the military, and also, Trump will be here,” he told Al Jazeera.
“I was actually a little confused if it was supposed to be for the Army’s 250th anniversary or for Trump’s birthday,” he said. “So I guess it’s a twofer.”
A birthday celebration
Trump had sought a massive military parade ever since attending a Bastille Day celebration in Paris in 2017, but faced pushback from defence officials during his first term.
This time around, he sent 28 Abrams tanks, a horde of armoured vehicles, cavalry, military planes and helicopters, both modern and antique, to the US capital, in a show of military hardware without comparison since 1991, when the US marked the end of the Gulf War.
Spectators gathered along Constitution Avenue – a thoroughfare that connects the White House to the US Capitol – for a pageant that stretched from the Army’s 1775 birth, through World War II, the Vietnam War, and the so-called “war on terror”.
Trump’s arrival prompted cheers, and a handful of jeers, from the crowd, which was dotted with red Make America Great Again (MAGA) hats. Attendance appeared to be less than the military’s prediction of about 200,000 people.
For Freddie Delacruz, a 63-year-old US Army veteran who travelled from North Carolina for the parade, Trump’s birthday and the Army celebration were distinct phenomena.
“It’s a coincidence,” he said. “I got married on June 6, which is the anniversary of D-day [the landing of allied forces on the beaches of Normandy, France].”
“So these things happen,” he said. “But we’re here to support the army. I spent 32 years in the army – I want to see the tanks, the planes, the helicopters flying around.”
A person holds up a ‘No Kings’ sign in protest against US President Donald Trump’s policies and federal immigration sweeps, during the US Army’s 250th birthday festival in Washington, DC, US, June 14, 2025 [Carlos Barria/Reuters]
Delacruz also did not see much significance in Trump’s deployment earlier this week of the US National Guard to California to respond to protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles and other cities.
Local officials and rights advocates have said the deployment, which was soon followed by Trump sending Marines to protect federal property and personnel, represented a major escalation and overreach of presidential power.
A judge on Thursday sided with a lawsuit filed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, ruling that Trump’s deployment without the governor’s approval was unlawful. However, an appeals court paused the ruling just hours later, allowing the deployment to temporarily continue.
Delacruz acknowledged that Trump has “got a lot of power… I mean, he’s got the Department of Defense, he’s got the Department of Department of State and now, all the Cabinet members are supporting him 100 percent”.
“But he’s still just the president, and he can’t control Congress,” he added. “This is what the people voted for.”
Freddie Delacruz attends the US Army parade in Washington, DC [Joseph Stepansky/Al Jazeera]
Aaron M, a 57-year-old Army veteran from Miami, Florida, also said he did not see an issue with how Trump has used federal forces in local law enforcement.
Trump’s decision was the first time since 1965 that a president had activated the National Guard without a governor’s consent. Both Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have indicated that the approach could be replicated across the country.
In recent days, Trump has also floated invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807, which would allow US troops to take part in domestic law enforcement, in what critics call a step towards martial law, but has not yet done so.
“If governors can’t get their states under control, then Trump should send [the National Guard] in,” said Aaron, who declined to give his last name.
“Look, I was born in Nicaragua. I came here when I was 12,” Aaron added.
“I know what a dictator is. This is not a dictator,” he said, motioning to the grandstand from where Trump watched the parade.
Armoured vehicles take part in a military parade to commemorate the US Army’s 250th birthday in Washington, DC [Brian Snyder/Reuters]
‘Protesting is patriotic’
For Anahi Rivas-Rodriguez, a 24-year-old from McAllen, Texas, the military pageantry underscored a more troubling turn, which she said included Trump’s hardline immigration policies melding with the country’s military might.
“I have a lot of people in my life who are scared. We do not belong in a fear in America,” said Rivas-Rodriguez, who joined a group of protesters marching in front of the White House.
“I do not stand by an America that tears families apart and targets people because they look brown and they look Mexican,” she said, her eyes welling up, “because they look like me”.
Trump earlier this week described the protesters as “people who hate the country”, adding that those who came out on Saturday would be “met with very big force”.
Rivas-Rodriguez bristled.
“Protesting is patriotic, and I am here for my country because I care about America,” she said. “Maybe I’m a little intimidated [by Trump], but I am not scared because I am still here.”
Anahi Rivas-Rodriguez attends a protest in Washington, DC [Joseph Stepansky/Al Jazeera]
About 60 arrests were made in a protest at the US Capitol late on Friday, but no major incidents were reported in the US capital on Saturday, with many groups choosing to hold protests elsewhere.
The organisers of the national “No Kings” protests held no official event in DC, despite hosting demonstrations in about 2,000 cities across the country.
In a statement, the group said they did so to avoid “allowing this birthday parade to be the center of gravity”.
Still, Roland Roebuck, a 77-year-old Vietnam War veteran from Puerto Rico, said he wanted to attend the parade in protest to send a message.
“Trump has been allergic to military service and deeply disrespectful of the military,” he said, pointing to Trump’s medical exemption from serving in Vietnam due to “bone spurs”, in what critics have said amounted to draft dodging.
Roebuck said the parade – with a price tag of between $25m and $45m – rings tone deaf at a time when Trump has been rolling back federal services, including those that affect veterans.
He also accused Trump of “erasing” the contributions of Black soldiers like himself through his administration’s anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) campaign at the Pentagon.
“Many of the people that are here are very confused with respect to what this parade represents,” Roebuck said.
“This represents a farce.”
President Donald Trump speaks during a celebration of the Army’s 250th birthday at the National Mall in Washington, DC [Doug Mills/Reuters]
Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt was left cringing following a guest’s confession about him on the BBC One show
10:20, 14 Jun 2025Updated 10:35, 14 Jun 2025
A Saturday Kitchen guest didn’t hold back as they exposed host Matt Tebbutt’s behaviour on the programme.
The BBC show returned to screens on Saturday morning (August 17) with Matt back at the helm. Joining Matt on the programme were chefs Paul Ainsworth, Sam Evans and Shauna Guinn, as well as special guest Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
But things took an awkward turn when Matt demanded one of the guests to “park it there” after they let slip a rather awkward confession about the beloved TV star.
As Paul Ainsworth cooked up a delicious dish for Matt and the guests, Matt quizzed him: “Is this on the menu in your restaurant Caffè Rojano?”
Matt was back to host the show
Paul replied: “Yes we put this on the menu,” to which Matt gushed: “It’s a great restaurant.”
Wine expert Olly then chimed in: “I love it, me and my family we’ve gone there several times. Really informal setting, delicious food.” Matt added: “Super relaxed.”
Olly said: “Well in your case Matthew very relaxed. A little too relaxed perhaps..,” as an awkward silence filled the studio.
A guest exposed Matt’s behaviour
Matt proclaimed: “Let’s park that there!” But chef Paul wasn’t going to let it go. He said: “Shall we go there? Shall we go there?!”
Matt replied: “Let’s not,” as Paul continued: “I think the viewers need to know that you fell asleep in Caffè Rojano!” An embarrassed Matt laughed along with his guests and he admitted: “It had been a long day.”
It comes after Matt spilled the secrets of working in live television – and opened up on the toughest part of the job.
Matt warned ‘let’s park it there’
Despite revealing he relishes the challenge every week on the BBC show, Matt has admitted the crew face a number of challenges in a bid to make the long-running show continue to air smoothly.
The 51-year-old chef has presented the weekend morning food show since 2017, when he took over from James Martin. And he has admitted that the crew are “like family” and are often met with many challenges, meaning they have to rehearse “a lot” despite it looking like they “wing it” at times.
Saturday Kitchen airs every Saturday at 10am on BBC One.
Budget airline Ryanair has introduced a £500 fine for bad behaving passengers, warning that they will be handed out to “disruptive passengers whose unruly behaviour results in them being offloaded from the aircraft”
07:31, 12 Jun 2025Updated 07:38, 12 Jun 2025
Ryanair has introduced the hefty fine(Image: Getty Images)
Ryanair has introduced a £500 fine in what it is calling a “major misconduct clampdown”.
The budget airline announced on Thursday morning that the £500 fine is now in place and will be handed out to “disruptive passengers whose unruly behaviour results in them being offloaded from the aircraft.”
Ryanair has warned that the fine levied could be even higher, but that £500 is the starting point.
“Passengers expect to travel in a comfortable and stress-free environment with an on-time arrival, free from unnecessary disruption caused by a tiny number of unruly passengers. While this is an industry-wide issue affecting all airlines, Ryanair is committed to tackling unruly passenger behaviour for the benefit of its passengers and crew, and will continue to pursue disruptive passengers for civil damages, but at a minimum, they will now be issued with a £500 fine,” a statement from the airline released this morning read.
Have you been disrupted on a Ryanair flight, or are you a crew member who has had to deal with it? We’d love to hear from you. Email [email protected]
The airline wants to crack down on bad behaviour(Image: ewg3D via Getty Images)
A Ryanair spokesperson said: “It is unacceptable that passengers are made suffer unnecessary disruption because of one unruly passenger’s behaviour. To help ensure that our passengers and crew travel in a comfortable and stress-free environment, without unnecessary disruption caused by a tiny number of unruly passengers, we have introduced a £500 fine, which will be issued to any passengers offloaded from aircraft as a result of their misconduct.
“While these are isolated events which happen across all airlines, disruptive behaviour in such a confined shared space is unacceptable, and we hope that our proactive approach will act as a deterrent to eliminate this unacceptable behaviour onboard our aircraft.”
Having to delay or cancel a flight because of a disruptive passenger is clearly a big problem for airlines, and particularly so for those which run routes to popular party destinations on which alcohol is liking to be flowing.
The Civil Aviation Authority explains: “Passengers who are rude or aggressive can be highly disruptive and distressing for cabin crew and fellow travellers. This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and can pose a risk to aircraft safety.
“Disruptive passengers can lead to planes being diverted and, where this happens, the disruptive passengers themselves risk having to pay the cost of the diversion. They can also face criminal charges with severe penalties or even prison sentences.”
At the end of last month a Ryanair flight to the UK had to be diverted after a woman allegedly became aggressive and ended up ‘heabutting doors and windows’, with police boarding the flight to escort her off.
In April, another passenger on the budget airline forced a flight to be diverted 400 miles due to “inexcusable behaviour. After the flight they were sued for more than £2,500 by the airline.
