famous

RYAN Thomas’ daughter Scarlett has revealed she’s been diagnosed with ADHD and her famous family “need to chill out” over the condition.

The singer, 17, took to Snapchat to share the news with her followers as well as to rant about how people treat her as a result of it.

She began: “The word ADHD, get it away and put it in the bin because what do you mean somebody talks too much?

“What do you mean somebody has a different personality and suddenly they’ve got a disorder.

“I don’t get it. I was diagnosed in year 9, it’s literally just a personality.

“It doesn’t make sense to me. Anyway, that’s my take on that. I say it because my uncle Adam talks about it and he needs to chill out.”

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Scarlett’s famous uncles and dad Ryan have spoken about ADHD at length on their podcast, with Adam emotionally detailing his experience with the condition several times in the past.

While her dad, Ryan, revealed in March this year that he too has been diagnosed with the condition.

Opening up about the situation on the podcast, At Home With The Thomas Bro’s podcast, Ryan expressed: “ADHD for me has been a big problem and I’ve not actually spoke about it yet because If I’m really honest, I was quite embarrassed that I had ADHD.

“It felt like I had a condition and growing up, as kids, ADHD, I don’t feel like, was ever a thing – or it was loosely spoke about.”

The former Corrie actor went on to explain that his fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh would tell him that he was losing his phone, not listening to conversations and misplacing his belongings.

He decided to visit doctors to get assessed for ADHD and had to go through an extensive process to get the diagnosis confirmed.

Ryan continued: “After the whole process, I was diagnosed – and I’m on medication.

“And friends that are on the medication have said it changes your life instantly, like the limitless pill. And it’s been quite disheartening for me because I’m on the medication every day.

“I’ve been on it for the last three, four weeks. And I still feel overwhelmed. I still misplace things.

“There is a part of me that I recognise – that I can sit down and write something on a piece of paper, which is very rare that that happens with me.”

Scarlett revealed last year that she didn’t take her GCSE’s as she opened up while everybody else was receiving their results.

In a short video posted to her TikTok account, the young stunner posed in front of a camera, showing a close up of her immaculate makeup.

Over the top of the clip set to music, Scarlett put some simple lines of POV text, reading: “Watching everyone get their GCSE results today wondering if I could’ve had good results but I will forever wonder.”

Despite not taking her exams, Scarlett’s career seems to be going from strength to strength.

As well as starring on Waterloo Road, she signed a music record deal this year with Big Family Music and is gearing up to release her own tracks.

Scarlett has amassed over 360,000 followers on TikTok and regularly shares singing videos as well as life updates with her fans.

Francesca Cumani is a popular ITV Racing presenter, who regular appears on our TV screens

Francesca Cumani is a popular ITV Racing presenter – but who is her famous dad and co-star ex?

Francesca is known for presenting at a variety of horse racing events for ITV. She has previously been part of the coverage of the Melbourne Cup with Seven Network and 10 Sport.

She returned to screens on Thursday (August 20) to present ITV‘s coverage of the second day of the Ebor Meeting in York, alongside her co-star Ed Chamberlin.

Analysis came from Jason Weaver, Adele Mulrennan and Ruby Walsh, with reporting by Matt Chapman, Oli Bell and Mick Fitzgerald, and commentary from Richard Hoiles.

The coverage will continue on Friday (August 21), leading up to the feature race, Nunthorpe Stakes. As Francesca continues to delight ITV racing fans, some may be surprised to learn that the star has a famous dad and a co-star ex away from the cameras.

Who is Francesca Cumani’s famous dad?

Francesca’s father is Luca Cumani, a renowned former thoroughbred racehorse trainer.

The Italian trained racehorses for over four decades from Bedford House Stables in Newmarket. Luca notably trained numerous Group 1 winners globally, including two Epsom Derby victories.

Francesca remembers the day her father’s horse won the 1998 Derby. She previously told the Daily Mail: “I had to play in a [tennis] match that afternoon. Luckily my games teacher was a real racing fan and let me duck out of the match to watch the race. I was too excited to play the rest of the match.”

Luca was also a champion amateur jockey in his youth, before becoming a prominent trainer and mentor to top jockeys.

After attending university, Francesca worked in the family business of training and breeding race horses, before delving into the world of presenting.

Francesca Cumani’s co-star ex

Francesca was previously in a relationship with her ITV Racing co-star Oli Bell – the son of sports commentator Rupert Bell.

She married Australian international polo player Rob Archibald in 2014, two years before their son, Harry, was born. The couple split in 2018, with Francesca later exploring a romance with Oli.

But ahead of the 2020 Cheltenham Festival, Oli and Francesca decided to end their relationship. Despite their split, they have continued to work together at various ITV Racing events over the years. In April, they notably attended ITV’s 2026 Showcase together, alongside their colleague Ed Chamberlin.

Francesca is now in a relationship with triathlete Max Johnson. They welcomed their first child together, Teddy, in 2022, before Francesca gave birth to another baby in December 2023.

ITV Racing is free to stream on ITVX

MADONNA appears to have outed herself as a fan of The Durrells, after taking over a tiny village made famous by the ITV drama to celebrate her 68th birthday.

After I revealed how Madge had spent the start of her celebrations flying to the monasteries of Meteora in Corfu over the weekend, stunned locals now tell me how she and her entourage descended on Kouramades for a very special party this week.

The tiny community, which has just 180 residents, was one of the locations used on the hit show, which starred Keeley Hawes.

Madge, boyfriend Akeem Morris, her family and entourage booked out tiny taverna Atzaro for a meal, complete with a child choir, who locals told me were specially flown over from Italy to perform.

An onlooker told me: “No one could believe Madonna was coming until she actually turned up.

“The security measures were pretty intense and there was a police presence, as well as Madonna’s security to keep her safe.

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“She wanted to visit the central church but they cancelled it because there was quite a crowd gathering. They headed to Atzaro for dinner and that was really special. Singers and a children’s choir from Italy performed as they ate traditional meals.

“Just before midnight, the group started dancing to the Zorba The Greek song and a birthday cake came out. They sang the birthday song three times and then danced until 2am. Once they left, the crowds that had gathered outside started clapping and chanting her name.”

Madonna’s visit to the village has now gone down in folklore — and I’m told the Material Girl superstar lapped up the attention.

“As she drove away, Madonna seemed to love everyone cheering so she popped her hand out and waved a bit like a member of the royal family,” a local added.

Her birthday isn’t the only thing she has to celebrate, as last night it was announced Madonna is the most nominated artist for the 2026 MTV VMAs, taking place on September 27.

She leads the pack with 11, including Video, Artist and Song of the Year for Bring Your Love, while Taylor Swift is just behind with nine nods.

Jesy’s Ben in rooftop rift

JESY NELSON had to play peacekeeper during a night out after boyfriend Ben Davies was caught up in a ruckus.

Onlookers told me the former Little Mix star and her new man were asked to leave the posh Madison rooftop bar in London on Saturday night after it all kicked off.

One told me: “Ben was getting in people’s faces when he was out with Jesy at Madison.

“Something had been said and he didn’t seem to be happy about it. He looked like he was about to get in a fight before all the bouncers swooped in.

“It was all pretty uncomfortable to watch. Jesy was amazing and kept her cool. She was trying to de-escalate the situation and appeared to be keen to get out of there.”

It’s not the best start to their romance. I revealed earlier this month how Jesy had started dating landscape gardener Ben, who counts Towie’s Lydia Bright among his exes.

They were spotted on a night out in London, before being snapped this week holding hands and snogging in the street, inset.

To avoid Ben digging any more publicly embarrassing holes, I think a quiet night in should be their next date.

Ronan abs go down a Storm

RONAN KEATING marked his 11th wedding anniversary to remind all his fans just how hot he is.

He revealed his gym-honed body with this snap on Instagram, posing alongside his equally fit missus Storm.

The Boyzone singer wrote: “We have the most incredible life and it’s all down to you. God I love ya.

“Thank you for loving me through the good and the bad versions of myself. You make me a better human and I thank you for it all.”

Green Day give us Glasto

GREEN DAY want to headline Glastonbury – but insist they have never been asked.

The American band, who have more than enough hits to top the bill, will be celebrating 40 years since they formed next year, so the timing couldn’t be better for organiser Emily Eavis to get on the blower.

Asked if they would like to do it, drummer Tre Cool said: “Yeah. If they ask us. It’s the last great festival we haven’t done.”

They have just released a comedy movie called Nimrods, which is loosely inspired by the band, but insisted a biopic won’t happen until they’re older.

He told NME: “A biopic is more of a retirement plan. We’ll do that when we’re actually old and we’re doing our residencies in Las Vegas or something.”

Spotify is planning Home Run

SPOTIFY has announced a new live music series, Hometown, which will celebrate artists and the places that shaped them.

Next month, Jorja Smith, Nemzzz and Beabadoobee, will return to the communities where their musical journeys began for intimate, one-night-only performances.

Jorja, who releases her new album What Are The Odds this Friday, will play her gig on September 6.

She said: “Walsall is where I first started writing and recording music as a teenager. It’s where my love of music began and the people, experiences and sense of community there continue to influence my creativity today.”

Nemzz will perform in Manchester on September 12, while Beabadoobee is scheduled to play a concert in London on September 17.

Noel: My reunion doubts

NOEL GALLAGHER had reservations about reuniting with brother Liam for their sold-out Oasis tour last year.

In the first trailer for Oasis: Don’t Look Back In Anger, in cinemas from September 9, Noel said: “I just don’t see myself on stage with Liam. I really don’t want to be going back with the tension. Will it fall apart?”

But Liam, who’d pushed for a reunion for years, made it clear he wanted to get back on board with Noel, saying: “The way it finished, unacceptable. It didn’t sit right with me, man.”

Looking back on their rows, which caused Oasis to split in 2009, Liam said: “We all said s**t we didn’t mean. I feel like I am exorcising demons, getting it all out. The rage. I need to calm the f**k down.”

Before the first show at Cardiff’s Principality stadium last July, Noel added:

“One of the biggest moments of our lives, right?

“I’d forgotten what [Liam] means to people. I certainly wasn’t prepared for the intense outpouring. A sense of what it meant to people. You’ve got a chance to change the narrative of the band.”

Isla’s red-hot

YOU can take it as read . . . Isla Fisher is definitely a fiery redhead.

On the promo trail in New York for new movie Spa Weekend, which is out on Friday, she said: “I’m a real redhead and I feel like I’ve earned the right to be red because I was bullied at school and I had all of the usual stuff that redheads go through.

“I always get mad when people just dye their hair red, I’m like, ‘You don’t know what we went through at school to be redhead!’”

THE WANTED are working on new music – but without half of the original line-up.

Max George and Siva Kaneswaran are writing new material as a duo after Nathan Sykes and Jay McGuiness decided not to return following Tom Parker’s death in 2022.

Siva told Culture Fix: “We’ve been writing for the past few months, so we want to carry on.

“The essence of The Wanted was pop/dance and I think we’re going to lean a bit more towards dance.

“I don’t think that’s a crazy thing to do for us.”

IT looks like The Beatles are getting back to where they once belonged — at the famous Abbey Road zebra crossing.

The cast of the upcoming Fab Four biopics recreated the iconic cover image of the 1969 Abbey Road album.

Harris Dickinson led the way as John Lennon, followed by Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr.

Paul Mescal was bare-footed Paul McCartney and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison.

Period vehicles were also seen on the street near the North London recording studios.

It is the first time Barry has been seen since reportedly throwing a strop while filming in Kent.

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The four Beatles biopics are due out in April 2028.

The friction between Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr in 1970 will be brought to life in the upcoming Beatles biopic.

But we reported in June how there was tension among the two actors playing the pop legends, too.

A source said: “Barry has been rubbing people up the wrong way.

“His timekeeping is not always up to scratch and he often references that he is a parent — despite not living with his son.

“He also brings his brother Eric on set as his assistant, which doesn’t always bring out the best in his character.

“Barry is professional and can bring out the best in any script.

“But he can test the boundaries off-camera.”

Paul and Ringo, the last surviving members of the band, clashed in 1970, shortly before the group split in April that year.

CURVY Kylie Jenner is hip to it as she promotes her new activewear range.

The US beauty mogul, 29, showed off her toned physique in a pink sports bra and matching leggings.

They are part of her Alo Yoga Pink Marshmallow collection — one more to add to the billionaire businesswoman’s portfolio.

Yet the mother-of-two is increasingly seeking privacy with actor boyfriend Timothée Chalamet, 30.

Reality star Kylie said: “Some of the most meaningful parts of my life happen when no one’s watching.”

She said: “Some of the most meaningful parts of my life happen when no one’s watching.

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“Those moments of stillness are what help me feel grounded and present, and I’ve learned to protect them.

“That’s what I love about this campaign – it reminds us that taking care of yourself starts with making space for the things that are yours alone.”

Well, we’re watching now.

Kylie recently ditched her clothes in steamy nude ad for her new Khy heels brand.

When she’s not showing off her brainiac skills, The Chase star Jenny Ryan is loved-up with her actor partner

Jenny Ryan is a firm favourite on The Chase – but who is her real-life boyfriend?

The brainiac shot to fame when she joined the ITV quiz show – hosted by Bradley Walsh – back in 2025. Since then, Jenny has become a regular on TV screens.

From stints on Celebrity X Factor to the new spin-off programme, The Chase Around The World, Jenny, also known as the Vixen, has remained booked and busy.

But away from the TV sets, Jenny is loved-up with her long-term boyfriend, Thom Tuck who also happens to work in the showbiz and entertainment industry.

Over the years, Thom has appeared in the likes of a number of hit shows, including The Crown, Fresh Meat and Babylon. He’s also shown off his talents on stage, performing in theatre productions of Death of A Salesman and Three Sisters.

Thom was also nominated for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Fringe for Thom Tuck Goes Straight-to-DVD. The show managed to get adapted to BBC Radio too.

But that’s not all, as Thom is one-third of the acclaimed sketch troupe The Penny Dreadfuls who have made series for Radio 4 and several audio dramas.

What’s more, Jenny and Thom even worked together when they co-starred in the pantomime production of Sleeping Beauty at the Wyvern Theatre in 2025, in which Jenny played the Wicked Fairy Carabosse and Thom played King Keir.

The pair also appeared on Celebrity Escape To The Country in 2023, and shared their plans to move from the city “back home” to the countryside near her hometown of Bolton.

Looking to relocate with a budget of £850,000 Jenny and Thom were shown an array of residences, turning down the first one but falling totally in love with the second one.

After the show aired, Jenny issued an update to fans a year later on her and Thom’s living situation, revealing on Instagram that she sadly did not buy the house.

She explained that before she could even get another viewing, another person put an offer on the property. Jenny then said she was not surprised another house hunter had bought the property but quipped “the search continues”.

The Chase Around The World airs every Thursday at 9pm on ITV1

AFTER spending years working in travel, I’ve realised some of Europe’s best purpose-built family resorts are the ones you’ve probably never even heard of.

While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with the classics, I’ve found stacks of alternative resorts that deliver everything families love about those hot spots – but they are a lot quieter, and a fraction of the price.

Think wide beaches, shallow water, proper family hotels, and massive waterparks – just without the overwhelming crowds or the inflated peak-summer price tag.

So, I’ve narrowed it down to eight resorts that hit all the non-negotiables for parents: short UK flights, quick airport transfers, walkable beaches, and stress-free dining with toddlers in tow.

8. Petrovac, Montenegro

If you want to try something genuinely different without sacrificing convenience, Petrovac is a proper hidden gem.

Tucked along Montenegro’s coast, it’s practically built for families with young kids.

The whole resort centres around a calm, horseshoe-shaped bay protected by small offshore islands that keep the sea remarkably still and safe for paddling.

There’s a completely pedestrianised, traffic-free promenade where kids can run around freely while you finish dinner, lined with casual, welcoming tavernas where children are treated like royalty.

Tivat Airport sits just 40 minutes down the coast, meaning you aren’t subjecting tired kids to a massive transfer coach journey after landing.

I found seven nights at the four-star Hotel Rivijera from £568pp, based on a family of four flying direct from London Gatwick on August 22 on a bed and breakfast basis.

Montenegro deal

Hotel Rivijera, Petrovac

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and breakfast

From £568pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

7. Cala’n Bosch, Menorca

Menorca is the undisputed king of low-stress family travel, but Cala’n Bosch is the specific resort I recommend time and time again.

Everything revolves around a central marina packed with seafood spots and ice cream parlours, where children can watch the boats coming and going while you enjoy a relaxed meal.

The beaches are sheltered, slope very gently, and stay shallow for ages, making them ideal for little swimmers.

Plus, the whole resort is exceptionally compact and flat, so you can easily walk everywhere without ever needing a hire car or bus.

You’ve got Aquarock Waterpark right in the centre of the resort for a change of scenery, and Mahón Airport is under 45 minutes away.

A family of four can bag seven nights at Club Ciudadela from £493pp, with flights from Manchester on August 25 on a self-catering basis.

Menorca deal

Club Ciudadela, Cala’n Bosch

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• Self catered

From £493pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

6. Nessebar, Bulgaria

Most people looking at Bulgaria default straight to Sunny Beach.

But just ten minutes down the coast sits Nessebar – a historic, UNESCO-listed town that delivers the exact same value with a much calmer atmosphere for parents.

It serves up the best of both worlds: a charming, stone-paved old town packed with ice cream parlours and bakeries, flanked by long, wide stretches of soft, golden sand that slopes gently into the sea.

It gives families that proper, classic beach holiday feeling, but with dirt-cheap dining and a far less chaotic night-time vibe than its noisy neighbor.

Burgas Airport is a breeze at just 25 minutes away, and Aqua Paradise – one of Eastern Europe’s biggest waterparks – is right on your doorstep too.

There were plenty of hotels to choose from, but in terms of value, I couldn’t get away from this one: seven nights all-inclusive at the Sol Nessebar Resort from just £675pp, based on a family of four flying from Manchester on August 25.

Bulgaria deal

Sol Nessebar Resort, Nessebar

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• All inclusive

From £675pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

5. Gouves, Crete

Gouves is one of those places families stumble across by accident and then end up booking for five years straight.

Sitting just 15 minutes from Heraklion Airport, it delivers one of the shortest transfers anywhere in the Greek islands – a total lifesaver after a four-hour flight with young kids.

Trust me, I know this one from experience.

The resort layout is super-relaxed, with flat, quiet roads lined with family-run tavernas and mini-marts, alongside sheltered sea walls that break up the waves and create pancake-flat, shallow swimming lagoons.

For easy day trips, you’ve got Dinosauria Park and Watercity Waterpark all sitting less than a 10-minute drive down the road.

And the best part is the price, because I managed to find seven nights with breakfast at the Despo Hotel from £398pp, with direct flights for a family of four from London Gatwick on August 25.

Crete deal

Despo Hotel, Gouves

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and Breakfast

From £398pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

4. Tigaki, Kos

Kos often gets overshadowed by Crete and Rhodes, but Tigaki deserves way more attention for families with buggies and toddlers.

The sand beach stretches uninterrupted for miles and the water stays waist-deep forever.

The entire resort is completely flat making it an absolute dream for pushchairs, scooters, and little legs that get tired quickly.

It has that quintessential, laid-back Greek island charm where parents can relax while the kids play safely on the sand right in front of the taverna tables.

Kos Airport is barely 20 minutes away, and the massive Lido Water Park is right down the road when you want a break from the ocean.

For just £580pp, I found seven nights all-inclusive for a family of four at Hotel K Ilios and Farming, flying direct from London Gatwick on August 19.

Kos deal

Hitel K Ilios and Farming, Tigaki

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• All inclusive

From £580pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

3. Cala Millor, Majorca

Cala Millor on Majorca’s east coast is the ultimate substitute for a stress-free Spanish break.

It’s home to an enormous, Blue Flag sandy bay with crystal-clear, shallow water, backed by a massive, palm-shaded pedestrian promenade lined with wooden playgrounds, shaded cafes, and flat cycling paths.

It’s made for effortless family days out, giving you all the incredible facilities, beach games, and amenities of the island’s famous mega-resorts, but with a much more relaxed, authentic island feel.

Palma Airport is also around an hour’s transfer.

It’s a little further than other resorts, but all via the main highway, making it a stress-free, fairly straight drive.

And I’ve picked out seven nights at the four-star Garbi Cala Millor from £548pp, based on a family of four flying direct from Gatwick on August 20 and staying half board.

Majorca deal

Hotel Garbi Cala Millor

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Half board

From £548pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

2. Porec, Croatia

If you fancy trading standard package resorts for quaint old towns, Porec in Croatia is easily one of the best family bets in Europe.

The centre is completely pedestrianised and packed with waterfront pizzerias and street performers that keep kids mesmerised.

Instead of scorched, open sand, the coastline here is lined with lush, fragrant pine forests that run right down to the clear swimming bays.

This means tons of natural shade so young kids can swim and play all day without getting overheated.

Pula Airport is less than 45 minutes away, and Aquacolors Porec – one of Croatia’s biggest waterparks – is sitting right outside town.

And I found a deal for a family of four, spending seven nights at Hotel Istra Plava Laguna from £513pp, with flights direct from London Luton on August 25 on a half board basis.

Croatia deal

Hotel Istra Plava Laguna, Porec

• Seven nights
• Luton flights
• Half board

From £513pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

1. La Pineda, Spain

If Salou has always appealed for the theme parks and beaches, but you wish the town itself was quieter and easier to navigate with children, La Pineda is an absolute cheat code.

Sitting just five minutes down the Costa Dorada coast, it boasts a massive beach with super-shallow water, backed by a flat, green promenade that’s ideal for pushchairs and evening strolls.

It’s ideal for families who want a chilled base, but still want easy access to world-class attractions.

Reus Airport is an absolute dream at just 15 minutes away, and you’ve got Aquopolis waterpark right inside the resort itself.

There is also PortAventura World theme park that’s a quick 10-minute taxi ride down the road (named one of the best in the world).

I clocked seven nights at Hotel Best Sol D’Or from £473pp, for a family of four departing Birmingham on August 25 on a room-only basis.

Spain deal

Hotel Best Sol D’or, La Pineda

• Seven nights
• Birmingham flights
• Room only

From £473pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

FLORENCE, S.C. — Few people have anything bad to say about Darline Graham, who was catapulted from obscurity last month when she was appointed to replace her late brother Lindsey Graham in the U.S. Senate.

“I think Darline’s wonderful,” said Kathy Bustos of Mount Pleasant after attending a Republican forum recently.

But that doesn’t mean Bustos wants to vote for her in the state’s special primary Tuesday.

“I think it’s a very nice gesture for her to have the rest of his term to complete, but I’m not sure that she’s really qualified or ready to be elected to the Senate,” she said.

It’s a common sentiment among Republican voters pondering an unexpected decision about replacing Lindsey Graham, who was nominated for a fifth term before he died last month from a tear in his aorta. Darline Graham was often by his side throughout his career, but she remains largely unknown in South Carolina’s clubby political circles.

President Trump has endorsed her, and she’s backed by the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which is running television advertising to support her candidacy.

However, Graham has been largely absent from the campaign trail, spending most of her time in Washington as an interim senator. Her appointment to the role, instead of giving her a leg up over the competition, may ultimately hold her back by preventing her from getting to know voters during a weeks-long sprint to Tuesday.

A crowded field

She is up against several well-known Republicans, including Reps. Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, as well as former Gov. Mark Sanford. The crowded field makes a runoff more likely, and it would be held Aug. 25.

All of them spoke at a Friday meeting of the Fourth District Republican Club in Greenville, but Graham sent a video message, saying she was “in Washington working hard for you.” She promised to be “a great friend and ally” to Trump and that she wanted to “earn your vote.”

And at a candidates event in Florence on Saturday, where Graham spoke, some of her supporters said they backed the interim senator’s decision to stay in Washington, even if it meant not campaigning.

“She committed to not missing votes or not being there to push forward with those bills,” said Teresa Castrinos, who made the hours-long drive from Bluffton to see Graham. “I feel like she’s putting South Carolina first. She’s wanting to fulfill her time as a senator right now, so I really admire her for that.”

A low profile

While Lindsey Graham was single and well-known around the world, his sister lived a relatively quiet life with her husband and daughters in Lexington, S.C. She spent years in state government, working with people with disabilities and as an agency head of the South Carolina Commission for the Blind.

Before participating in Saturday’s event in Florence, her only public campaign event had been a candidates forum in Lexington. Charles Brentnell of Greenville County, who said he was still considering whom to vote for, liked her decision to stay in Washington when the Senate was in session.

“Let’s keep the Senate at the Senate instead of taking a month off for no good reason,” he said.

Appearing alongside other contenders Saturday, Graham apologized for reading from notes from a lectern, pointing to the Senate votes that kept her in Washington until just hours before she headed to meet voters in South Carolina.

“Yes, I have some notes. You know why? Because I haven’t slept in two days, so I’m going to keep my thoughts straight,” Graham said, adding that she opposed Senate recess but lost out to others who wanted to end votes and go home. “I wanted to stay there, and I wanted to get things done.”

Graham also participated in one of two televised debates, where she backed Trump’s plan to change filibuster rules to make it easier to pass the president’s bill for strict voter ID requirements.

While other candidates came to speak to the media gathered afterward, Graham skipped the session and merely gave a thumbs-up outside when asked how she felt the debate had gone.

In contrast to her loquacious late brother, Graham has not spoken with reporters in Capitol Hill hallways or fielded questions on the stump.

She’s spoken at length to Fox News personalities Sean Hannity and Trey Gowdy, both of whom eulogized Lindsey Graham at memorial services last month, and granted two interviews to local news outlets.

On Saturday, in her first gaggle with reporters, Graham addressed some of voters’ concerns, reiterating her commitment to do Senate work when the chamber is in session.

“I feel like my job is to be in D.C. working for everyone right now. I hate that I can’t be here. I want to be here,” she said. “That’s why I left and didn’t sleep at all last night, so I could attend today’s event.”

As to the skepticism in sending her to Washington for six years, Graham cited her state government experience, plus the last several weeks she’s had serving as interim senator.

“Trust me, I have learned a lot already, so I think I have experience,” she said.

A second debate took place while Graham was in Washington on Tuesday, a date her campaign pointed out had been scheduled despite the senator’s conflict.

Gigi Bray of Charleston said the idea of Darline Graham serving in the interim makes sense, but electing her to a full term does not.

“I think it’s a great honor for her to hold her brother’s spot till November, but it’s time for a change,” said Bray, who backs Sanford. “I don’t think she has a lot of government experience, and I think right now, with the state of our country, I think it’s very important that somebody has experience.”

Kinnard writes for the Associated Press.

A FAMOUS UK train could soon be travelling from the UK to mainland Europe.

The Caledonian Sleeper, known for its overnight routes between London and Scotland, could soon head from Scotland to destinations in Europe.

Following a meeting, the train operator is now looking into opportunities for the sleeper to head abroad.

Stephen Flynn, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport said of the project: “We are committed to exploring the potential for a direct Caledonian Sleeper service to mainland Europe, and I am pleased that this work is now underway.

“This is an early-stage exercise and the study will focus on understanding the practical, technical and commercial considerations involved. The findings will provide an evidence base to inform any future decisions.”

Findings of the study are expected to be published later this year.

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The Caledonian Sleeper currently runs services between London Euston, Birmingham International and major destinations across Scotland including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William.

Routes include the Lowlander Route and the Highlander Route.

The Caledonian Sleeper operates six nights a week, with Saturday being the only day there isn’t a service.

Currently the only trains between the UK and mainland Europe are via the Eurostar and Channel Tunnel.

Eurostar’s destinations include Paris, Brussels and Rotterdam.

However, Virgin Trains is set to launch by the end of the decade, promising services to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.

The company is also hoping to launch routes to Disneyland Paris, other parts of France and into Germany and Switzerland in the future.

BUDGET airline easyJet has just released its flights for next summer and you could grab a bargain.

EasyJet‘s Big Seat Release means travellers can now book flights up until September 26, 2027.

Travellers can choose from 140 destinations across Europe and North Africa and can fly from 22 airports.

And package holidays can be booked up to October 31, 2027.

Sun Travel looked at the current cheapest flights available and here are the best offers at the time of publication.

You could head from Newcastle to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, one-way on September 8, 2027, for £26.48.

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Alternatively, from the same airport, you could head to Nice in France for £26.48 one-way.

From Birmingham Airport, you could travel to Paris, France, on June 29 for £29.48 one-way.

Or head to Amsterdam for the same price, on June 15.

If you don’t mind spending a few more quid, there are several flights for £32.48 from the airport, including to Bordeaux on August 26, Berlin on August 30, Prague on June 16 and Geneva on September 8.

There are several flights from Manchester Airport for £32.48 one-way.

These include to Paris on June 22, to Amsterdam on September 7, to Copenhagen on June 15 and to Rennes on June 30.

For a bit of Spanish sun, you can head to Barcelona from Leeds Bradford Airport for £34.98 one-way on June 16.

Or you could head to Porto in Portugal on August 6 from Glasgow for £32.48 one-way.

If you can’t wait for a holiday until then, you can get 15 per cent off selected flights if you book by Friday, for holidays between August 1 and September 30, 2026.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said: “Whether customers are dreaming of a beach holiday in the Mediterranean, a city break with friends or a family getaway during the school holidays, our Big Seat Release for next summer gives them the chance to get ahead and start planning.”

AN AWARD-WINNING visitor attraction in the UK is at risk of closing.

The Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire – home to the UK’s largest telescope and several attractions for the last 70 years – could soon close.

According to the BBC, the attraction has lost its funding, which could mean that the attraction is forced to close, which scientists describe as “heartbreaking”.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site observatory features a number of telescopes that have been used to study galaxies and to train astronomers.

There are four pavilions in total to explore, including one that features a science exhibition.

Outside, visitors can then also venture around 35 acres of gardens including an arboretum, as well as picnic areas, ponds and a playground.

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The attraction has a number of cafes and a gift shop too.

General tickets cost £15 per adult and £10.50 per child.

In addition to this, there are a number of events that run at the observatory including shows such as The Great Solar System Adventure, where young space explorers can see the journey and life of stars.

Most shows cost from nothing to around £5 per person to watch.

And the site isn’t just used for science – it has also made an appearance in Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy as well as Doctor Who.

Unless funding can be found for the attraction, all scientific investigations are expected to stop at the observatory on April 1, 2028.

The observatory was first launched in 1945 and played a key role in the Cold War to monitor Soviet missiles.

The BBC added that the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) agency is expected to make a statement regarding the loss of the observatory’s annual £2.8million budget.

One recent visitor said: “We had a really lovely experience at Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement. It’s a fantastic place to visit with children.

“There is an indoor museum, activity room as well as playgrounds, so it works well even if the weather isn’t great.

“The Dome cinema was a real highlight — the film was excellent and very engaging.”

DUST down your red frock for the Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever annual celebrations today.

The global flashmob sees Kate Bush fans recreate the video from the 1978 hit, in which the scarlet-clad singer pranced across idyllic countryside.

The biggest celebrations include one in Haworth, West Yorks, close to the historic Bronte parsonage at Penistone Hill, and at the Harbour Arm promenade in Folkestone.

Kate wrote her song, aged 18, after watching a TV adaptation of the Emily Bronte novel – and earlier this year, Wuthering Heights’ latest movie incarnation saw Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi cast as sweethearts Cathy and Heathcliff.

Yorkshire’s breathtaking moors were stars, too, and on my visit I found them to be every bit as barren and mysterious as in the film – undulating fells, carpets of heather and bubbling streams as far as the eye could see.

With only the odd pheasant for company, I’d rarely been anywhere so remote.

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Despite the changeable weather – one minute I’d be battered by gusts that pierced like kitchen knives, the next smothered in mist then bathed in sunshine – I instantly fell head over heels in love with the moors.

Emily Bronte and her sisters Charlotte and Anne grew to adore these wilds, right on their doorstep.

I hiked to ruined farmstead called Top Withens, said to have inspired Wuthering Heights the fictional home of Cathy.

A further trek then took me to the Bronte Waterfall, Bronte Bridge, and Bronte Chair rock (in the shape of a seat), which were all places close to the sisters’ hearts.

Back in Haworth, the limestone cottages and cobbled main street lined with gift shops, cafes and pubs had an old-fashioned charm.

At the sisters’ old home, now the Bronte Parsonage Museum, I saw the simple wooden table where they used to write.

My base was the splendid Holdsworth House Hotel on the edge of Halifax.

Now Grade II-listed, it oozed character, with oak beams and roaring fires.

Reminders of its historic stature abounded, from a stone Cross of Malta – an emblem of ancient religious military order The Knights Hospitaller – to cupboards once used for 18th-century wigs.

Scenes from TV dramas Happy Valley and Last Tango In Halifax were filmed here, while Jacob Elordi, Margot Robbie, Ewan McGregor and James Norton have all stayed.

When I visited, turtle and duckling were no longer on the menu. Instead, I could tuck into steak tartare, venison sausages and Cheddar and leek-filled pasta in a sweetcorn chowder.

And the hotel’s newly opened spa was the perfect place to relax, with fabulous treatments on offer.

I ended my adventure – It full of nostalgia, just like the best Bronte novels – with a dreamy steam-train ride on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.

SHE may be pushing 30 with a husband and three kids of her own, but Dani Dyer’s famous dad still foots her phone bill.

The former Love Island star, 29, posted a tribute to her actor dad Danny on his 49th birthday, cheekily making the revelation.

Next to a snap of Danny, she wrote: “Happy birthday to you. Thank you for everything you do.

“So lucky to have you and all the laughs we have together. Love you loads.

“Also thank you for still paying my phone bill!”

The Dyer family went out for a lavish meal to mark Danny’s birthday.

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In more snaps shared by Dani, Danny was treated to a swanky dinner, topped off with his favourite pudding with a candle on top.

The family sang to the Rivals star as he thanked them for their well-wishes.

Danny was joined by his wife Joanne and two of their three children, Dani and 19-year-old Sunnie.

Their youngest, Arty, wasn’t present, but Dani’s husband – footballer Jarrod Bowen – and Sunnie’s boyfriend – record label owner Will Wood – joined the celebrations.

Dani is about to embark on a stint on Strictly Come Dancing, which kicks off at the end of the summer.

It was revealed this week that another “nepo baby” will join her in the 2026 line-up, in the form of Ray Winstone’s actress daughter Jaime.

Ray and Danny both starred in 2006’s football drama All In The Game, suggesting the celebrity offspring have crossed paths in the past.

This comes after it was revealed Danny has further connections to Love Island, beyond his daughter Dani finding fame on the show.

A link has been unearthed between current contestant Lorenzo and Danny – as well as ties to EastEnders, Ne-Yo, and former show winner Ekin-Su.

Lorenzo’s dad Oz helps train MMA fighters at his thriving business Wolf Self Defence, but he worked as a close protection officer for celebrities prior to this.

Oz is also the head doorman at celebrity hotspot Sheesh, where many of the Love Island cast and British celebrities hang out.

Snaps from social media show Oz with Danny, as well as other stars.

COSY pub rooms, fantastic British food and nearby hikes – all the makings of a quintessential UK break.

So here’s everything you need to know about staying at the Welldiggers Arms.

Where is the Welldiggers Arms?

On the outskirts of beautiful Petworth in Sussex, there are stunning views of the rolling South Downs National Park through the picture windows while enjoying the warm and cosy interiors.

What’s the hotel like?

The pub with rooms is packed with traditional country charm and a healthy dose of ‘sink into an armchair’ comfortable chic.

Recently refurbished, while the stone building might be 300 years old the décor is up to date.

Original features include the original namesake water well. Think enveloping and relaxing rural style.

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What are the rooms like?

The fourteen rooms – including dog and child friendly options – are all beautifully appointed and decked out with the kind of furnishings that look like they’ve been there forever, but you know that someone has given them a great deal of thought.

Think muted and matt rustic paint colours, patterned upholstery, Bramley toiletries and ‘spare room at a country house’ vibes.

Sizes range from Snug doubles to Signatures with private terraces. Or book the Superior suite and you’ll even find a claw rooted bath at the foot of the bed.

Choose between sleeping above the pub itself or if you prefer more peaceful acoustics opt for the annexe alongside.

It’s worth noting that not all have rolling green views, with some bedrooms overlooking the road alongside.

Rooms start from £99 per night, including breakfast. A Muddy Paws dog-friendly package starts from £130, including sausage brekkie for your mutt. See butcombe.com/the-welldiggers-arms-west-sussex/

What is there to eat and drink at the hotel?

Locals flock here to enjoy the delicious gastropub fare on offer so definitely stay put.

There’s a delicious, ever-changing menu of fresh and seasonal British dishes with as much produce as possible sourced locally.

From the bread with whipped butter to fish and chips with booze-laced Butcombe ale batter you are in for a treat.

The Sunday roast is famous – best enjoyed by a roaring fire if you can snag a coveted table.

Make sure you leave room for a pudding too as interesting ingredients have been used to give some classic choices a contemporary twist.

Try the Sticky Toffee Carrot Pudding, or perhaps the Yuze Crème Brulee.

What else is there?

As well as the incredible walks on your doorstep there’s plenty of other places to explore nearby.

National Trust owned Petworth House, with its famous deer park and a famed art collection, is just a short two mile drive away.

History buffs can devour the medieval displays at nearby Arundel Castle.

Shopaholics will be spoilt for interesting independent shops to browse in the picturesque town of Petworth itself.

Is it family friendly?

Families will definitely find the Welldiggers Arms to be family friendly with kids menus and ground floor rooms for easy access – so no dragging strollers up and down stairs. 

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Guests with needs for easy access will be able to find a selection of ground floor rooms with walk-in showers. 

It is recommended to contact the bookings team before your stay to ensure your trip to Welldiggers Arms is as comfortable as possible. 

THE UK’s most popular paid-for attraction in the UK is about to get a huge glow up costing millions.

Dating back over 1,000 years, the Tower of London has revealed plans for some huge new additions.

As part of the £70million project, the Tower will open new community spaces as well as two learning centres.

According to the BBC, the Waterloo Block – which is home to the Crown Jewels – will be turned into a three-storey learning centre, with a broadcast studio and sensory room.

There will be a new ‘green classroom’ as well, which will be located in the Tower’s moat.

The new facilities will mean that the Tower can handle 200,000 people a year, up from 125,000.

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The historic attraction’s architectural archive will be opened to the public as well, which includes more than 25,000 drawings of designs, the building and conservation work.

Once the project is complete, there will be workshops led by actors in costume as well as live broadcasts in the Tower.

The scheme, which is dubbed ‘Tomorrow’s Tower’, will take place over a year.

Though an exact date for when works will take place has not yet been revealed.

Brigadier Andrew Jackson, governor of the Tower of London, said: “For over a thousand years, the Tower has been many things — fortress, palace, prison and garrison – but throughout its history it has always brought people together.

“By opening up new spaces for learning, community and discovery, we are ensuring the Tower’s stories continue to resonate, reaching more classrooms, more communities and the millions of people from around the world who visit each year, while carefully protecting what makes this extraordinary place so special.”

The Tower of London attracts more than three million tourists a year, making it the most popular pay-to-visit attraction in the country.

It was even named the top tourist attraction for people heading to London by a study conducted by Travelodge.

Beloved presenter Fern Britton is best known for hosting ITV daytime programme This Morning

Fern Britton has a very famous father and fans will be floored at who he is.

The former This Morning presenter is currently appearing on screens in Fern Britton: Inside the Vet’s. The ITV documentary series follows Fern as she goes behind the scenes at a Bristol surgery.

The programme has recently returned for a second season at The Grove Vets, with the latest instalment set to feature a 10-month-old cat with an injury sustained in a fight. That’s not all, as Dr James Greenwood also provides emergency care to a whippet with a nasty throat injury, and delivers a masterclass on doggy dental hygiene with special help from his own pet.

As Fern continues to delight audiences on ITV1, some viewers may be surprised to learn that she comes from a very famous family, reports the Express.

Who is Fern Britton’s famous dad?

Fern’s dad was the actor Tony Britton. Tony was best known for starring in BBC sitcom Don’t Wait Up alongside Nigel Havers in the 1980s, as well as many British films including The Day of the Jackal.

He also appeared in Robin’s Nest alongside Richard O’Sullivan and Tess Wyatt, and films Operation Amsterdam, as well as Sunday Bloody Sunday. In 1975, he won the Broadcasting Press Guild’s best actor award for his role in The Nearly Man.

Fern announced her father’s death in 2019, just one year after the passing of her mother, Ruth. The deaths of her parents were followed by more heartbreak, as her marriage to TV chef Phil Vickery soon “fell apart”.

The couple announced their split after two decades together in 2020. Fern and Phil haven’t spoken in several years, with Fern claiming that her ex “stopped talking to me” after her mum died.

“My mum died in 2018 and my dad died in 2019, and then my marriage died,” Fern previously told The Telegraph.

Fern Britton’s body transformation

The 68-year-old star recently revealed her weight loss to fans on social media, after losing five stone.

Fern has since spoken about the massive change she made to her diet and how it has influenced her weight loss journey.

Speaking on the Postcards From Midlife podcast, she said: “I realised the sugar intake. I’m addicted to sugar and, funnily enough, if you’re not eating doughnuts, biscuits, cake, jam, you know… it makes you feel a lot better. So, now if I’m eating sugar, it’s too sweet for me because I used to be able to tolerate an awful lot.”

She added: “And like cigarettes as well, I used to be able to tolerate anybody smoking anything in my face, but now it’s like, ‘Stop it’. Apart from that, it was very much kind of sensible.”

Fern Britton: Inside the Vet’s is available to stream on ITVX

Away from Coronation Street, Dylan Wilson actor Liam McCheyne has a well-known sibling

Dylan Wilson has been a staple on Coronation Street for years – but what do we know about actor Liam McCheyne?

Liam plays Dylan Wilson, the son of Sean Tully (Anthony Cotton) and Violet Wilson (Jenny Platt). He first arrived on the cobbles in 2011 and later returned in 2022.

Liam’s role on the show has progressed significantly over the years, as over on the soap recently, it was confirmed that Dylan and girlfriend Betsy Swajn (Sydney Martin) are set for a new dramatic storyline examining the devastating life-altering consequences of non-fatal strangulation.

In Wednesday’s episode (July 15) Betsy is found unconscious and rushed to hospital, with doctors confirming that she has suffered a stroke caused by a blood clot. So, with more drama to come on the cobbles we’re taking a look inside Dylan actor Liam’s life, including his relationship with his soap co-star brother.

Liam on working with his brother on Corrie

The character of Dylan was originally played by both Liam and his twin brother Connor. And while Liam has continued his acting career, Connor seems to have hung up his acting shoes in favour of sport.

Talking about him and his brother landing the role of Dylan on Corrie, Liam previously said: “We were three years old and it was a total fluke way to get it.

“My neighbour across the road was on work experience for a local agency and she asked my mum if we would want to go and do an audition for her. She said even if we didn’t get it, it would help her with her work experience.

“My mum, dad and even nursery teachers all thought we would be too shy to do it. When we got here, and were in the casting, as soon as the cameras were on, we were like totally different children with our confidence and were laughing away.”

Liam and twin brother’s close relationship

Liam is still very close to Connor and regularly shares photos of them enjoying time together. Earlier this year, Liam shared a special update with his brother as in January, the pair took to their Instagram to share a post celebrating their 19th birthday.

Alongside photos of the twins over the years, Liam wrote in his caption: “Happy birthday to you best mate and right hand man @connormccheyne1 Here’s to the best memories throughout chapter 19!” Meanwhile, Connor penned: “Happy birthday to this one. @liammccheyne here’s to a top 2026.”

Liam’s Corrie return ‘was hard to take for Connor’

Meanwhile in 2024, Liam revealed that fans often stop his twin brother thinking it’s him. He said: “The funnier story is when people think Connor, my twin brother, is Dylan.

The actor added: “He’ll get stopped in Manchester on his way to college and won’t have enough time to say it’s not him before someone has a camera asking for a picture.”

Liam also previously revealed that when Dylan returned to the soap in 2020, both he and his twin brother were up for the role – and it was a hard decision for Corrie producers.

“They couldn’t decide here at Corrie who would be cast, so they sent it to an external casting agency in London. They literally went off my CV, based on the fact that I’d just come off Last Tango,” he said.

“That was hard to take for Connor, because he was very good. But we’ve both agreed in the past, and we’ve said publicly in the press, that it’s led to another opportunity for him. Acting wasn’t his thing in the end and it’s opened another door for him.”

Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX

ONE incredibly famous beach in Greece that is often named as one of the ‘best in the world’ is about to undergo a transformation.

Navagio Beach also called Shipwreck Beach or Smugglers Cove is famous thanks to the MV Panagiotis sitting on its shore.

The huge freight ship surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and bright blue waters ran aground in 1980 and has become a popular tourist destination.

Currently, the wreckage is around 25metres from the sea, but the new works will mean that it will sit much further back from the water.

The beach will be extended by 30metres towards the sea, using gravel so that the wreck can be preserved.

Over the years, the shipwreck has deteriorated, with its hull in particular suffering from erosion.

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Once the beach has been extended, Greek authorities have said that work will then begin on restoring the ship itself.

Despite being a very popular destination for those visiting Zante, Navagio Beach is currently closed to tourists because of safety concerns.

There have been concerns about landslides since 2018 when a section of cliff collapsed and injured several tourists.

Then in 2022, the beach was hit by an earthquake which resulted in a landslide and caused it to close.

The beach remains shut for the 2026 summer season with no visitors allowed on the sands.

Greek authorities also made the decision to ban boats and swimmers from visiting until 31 October 2026 when it will reassess the safety concerns.

The only way to see the beach this summer is from a viewing platform above it.

The Major League Baseball draft is filled with unfamiliar names. Even the most knowledgeable fans have difficulty knowing much about the mostly anonymous high school and college players taken by the 30 teams through 20 rounds.

Every year, however, a handful of names ring a bell. This year’s draft, held the last two days in Philadelphia ahead of Tuesday’s All-Star Game, was no exception.

Bonds. Thome. Pettitte. Sabathia.

The accomplishments of the fathers or uncles of those draftees loom large. Other high picks hope to eclipse the accomplishments of relatives who had brief MLB or long minor league careers: No. 1 overall pick Roch Cholowsky out of UCLA is a prime example.

And draft picks whose relatives have ties to the Dodgers or Angels draw interest: Salmon, Ebel, Gasparino, Willits and Bard qualify.

No player wants to be branded as a “nepo pick” — taken as a favor to a relative. But even those can turn out to be brilliant. The Dodgers took Mike Piazza in the 62nd round of the 1988 draft largely because his father, Vince Piazza, was a childhood friend of manager Tommy Lasorda. Piazza, of course, became a Hall of Fame catcher with the Dodgers and New York Mets.

A brisk walk through this year’s picks with intriguing bloodlines:

— Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA. First overall pick by the Chicago White Sox.
His father, Dan Cholowsky, was the 39th pick in 1991 by the St. Louis Cardinals and played eight minor league seasons. He’s now a scout for the Cincinnati Reds. To focus on baseball, Roch gave up a scholarship offer to play quarterback at Notre Dame. He is the Bruins’ first No. 1 pick since Gerrit Cole in 2011.

— Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep (Fla.). No. 14 pick by the Miami Marlins
His father, George Lombard, played parts of six seasons with four MLB teams from 1998 to 2006 and is the Detroit Tigers’ bench coach. Jacob’s brother, George Lombard Jr., was the 26th pick in the 2023 draft. Jacob was one of 11 shortstops taken in the first 40 picks this year.

— Trey Ebel, SS, Corona High. No. 25 pick by the Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee made his brother, Brady, the No. 32 pick a year ago. Their father, Dino Ebel, has been the Dodgers’ third base coach since 2019 and spent the previous 13 years as a coach for the Angels. Strength and conditioning training with MW Athletix’s Keith Coury helped lift Trey into the first round.

Landon Thome, the 34th pick in the MLB draft, and his father, Hall of Famer Jim Thome.

(Nam Y. Huh/AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

— Landon Thome, 2B/3B, Nazareth Academy (Ill.). No. 34 pick by the White Sox.
His father, Jim Thome, ranks eighth on the career home run list with 612 and was a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2018. Like his dad, Landon is a left-handed hitter with a sweet swing. He also has something his dad lacked: speed. Landon stole 54 bases this spring.

— Gavin Grahovac, 1B, Texas A&M. No. 81 pick by the Angels.
His cousin Garrett Mitchell was the No. 20 pick out of UCLA in 2020 and is in his fifth MLB season with the Brewers. His father, Mike Grahovac, was a fourth-round pick in 1989 but topped out in class A. Scouts project Gavin as having the potential to hit 30 homers a year.

— Peyton Bonds, OF, Rutgers. No. 90 pick by the San Francisco Giants.
His uncle, Barry Bonds, is a seven-time MVP who holds the MLB record with 762 home runs. His grandfather Bobby Bonds hit 332 homers during a 14-year career that ended in 1981. And his father, Bobby Bonds Jr., played 11 seasons in the minor leagues. Peyton is a 6-foot-5, 230-pound center fielder with speed and improving power.

— Rylan Lujo, OF, Georgia. No. 109 pick by the Angels.
His grandfather is Rennie Stennett, a versatile player whose nine seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates were bracketed by World Series titles in his 1971 rookie season and 1979 finale. Lujo converted from the infield to center field at Georgia and has plus speed.

— Jaxon Willits, SS, Oklahoma. No. 141 pick by the Angels.
His brother Eli was the first pick in last year’s draft, going to the Washington Nationals. Their father, Reggie, played parts of six seasons with the Angels and is now a coach at Oklahoma. Jaxon, 21, is older than Eli, who was the youngest player to go No. 1 overall at 17 years 216 days. Both are switch-hitters.

— Will Gasparino, OF, UCLA and Harvard-Westlake High. No. 161 overall to the Phillies.
His father, Billy Gasparino, has been a Dodgers executive for 11 years. He is the vice president of baseball operations after being promoted in 2024 from vice president of amateur scouting. Will, a 6-6 right-handed power hitter, transferred from Texas to UCLA before the 2026 season.

— Luke Pettitte, RHP/DH, Dallas Baptist. No. 248 to the New York Yankees.
His father, Andy Pettitte, won five World Series pitching for the Yankees. While Andy remains on the Hall of Fame ballot the next two years, his son will be working through the minor leagues, perhaps as a two-way player. Luke had Tommy John surgery after two years pitching for Dallas Baptist, then batted .337 with 16 home runs as a designated hitter last spring.

— Jack Salmon, OF, Nevada Las Vegas and Corona del Mar High. No. 559 by the Angels.
His uncle Tim Salmon is an Angels legend, a key component of their 2002 World Series championship team who played his entire 14-year career in Anaheim. His father, Mike, had a short stint in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers and played football at USC.

— Luke Bard, C, Houston Christian. No. 583 by the Dodgers.
His father, Josh Bard, spent 10 seasons in the majors with five teams and is the Dodgers’ bullpen coach. Luke batted .345 last season at Houston Christian.

— Carsten Sabathia III, 1B, Houston. No. 611 by the Brewers.
His father, CC Sabathia, was a first-ballot Hall of Famer last year who finished his 19-year career with 251 wins and 3,093 strikeouts. He spent one memorable half-season with the Brewers, going 11-2 with a 1.65 ERA to help them to the playoffs in 2008. Carsten played two years at Georgia Tech before transferring to Houston. He was the third-to-last pick in the draft.

A VERY famous boy band star has been spotted casually shopping at duty free in the airport — but would you have spotted him?

The Irish hunk, 32, was standing at the counter purchasing his goods when he turned around and caught the fan filming him on their phone.

Taking to TikTok, a fan shared a video of Niall Horan and captioned it: “I thought I saw Niall Horan at the airport but I didn’t know if it was actually him or not.

“So I took a video to confirm and he caught me and the saxophone’s got louder.”

In the clip, a casually dressed Niall rocks sport shorts and a sweatshirt paired with trainers and a cap ahead of his flight.

He’s seen at the Duty Free counter buying his goods before turning and staring at the fan and their phone camera.

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Fans flocked to the comment section confirming his identity, with one penning: “Yeah that’s definitely Niall.”

A second added: “I get literally second hand embarrassment here Help.”

“This is definitely Niall,” a third wrote, as Another commented: “HAHAHAHAHA oh my God I would hide anywhere.”

“The boys are very good at noticing cameras!!!” noted a fifth.

Niall recently spoke about the pain he’s living with after Liam Payne’s early death.

The singers met as contestants on The X Factor where they were formed into world-famous boyband One Direction alongside Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson.

Liam passed away in October 2024 after falling from a balcony in Buenos Aires – with Niall managing to see his friend in Argentina shortly before his untimely death.

“I’m glad of that, it means my last memory of him was happy,” he told The Times.

“It still feels surreal. On day one I was, like, ‘Nah, it didn’t happen.’ Our friendship was a bond that was there for ever even if we hadn’t seen each other for a while and it’s wild that one day, like the flick of a switch, he’s gone.”

Niall also said he has stayed in contact with Liam’s family.

On a lighter note, Niall also opened up on the possibility of an One Direction reunion.

“God knows. I mean look at Harry there, look at Louis, the boys are flying, so God knows, but everyone still asks about it, it’s exciting.”

Jazz star Jamie Cullum is one of the guest mentors on the new series of Channel 4’s The Piano

Jamie Cullum has been in the spotlight for decades.

The jazz star was just 20 when he reportedly produced his first album, Heard It All Before, in 1999 with just £480 and only 500 copies made.

Since then he’s enjoyed huge success as a singer and musician, releasing more albums, performing all over the world and amassing awards. The 46-year-old, who was born in Essex and grew up in Wiltshire, is also renowned for fronting The Jazz Show With Jamie Cullum on BBC Radio 2.

Fans will be able to catch Jamie on the new series of Channel 4’s The Piano, which returns on Sunday, July 12 for its fourth run. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman and Mika, the programmke searches for the UK’s best amateur piano players and Jamie will be one of the guest mentors along with Jools Holland and Hiromi.

Ahead of the show, we take a look at Jamie’s life away from the cameras, including his model wife, famous reation and his real height.

Supermodel wife and children

Jamie has been married to supermodel Sophie Dahl since 2010 and they have two daughters.

Sophie started her career as a teenage fashion model and was famously discovered by British Vogue. She was renowned for her curves and was sought after by the top designers.

She’s gone on to have a successful career as an author, journalist and TV presenter.

Speaking to Red in 2020, Jamie opened up about meeting his wife.

He said: “We just really hit it off. I thought, ‘Man, that is a cool woman,’ but I didn’t really entertain anything else. We were both in relationships and she wasn’t living in the UK, so we were just friends at first.

“Then, a couple of years later, she moved back here and that’s when our friendship became something else.

“We had a very immediate connection. While we both worked in a public way, our lives were purposefully quite private.”

Links to famous author

Sophie is the granddaughter of the late great author Roald Dahl who is renowned for children’s classics like Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Fantastic Mr Fox and Matilda. Sophie was said to be the inspiration behind his work, The BFG.

He was born in Cardiff to Norwegian parents and served in the Royal Air Force. His first children’s book was The Gremlins, published in 1943, about mischievous little creatures that were part of Royal Air Force folklore

As well as his children’s books, he also had a successful parallel career as the writer of macabre adult short stories, which often blended humour and innocence with surprising plot twists.

Roald died in 1990, long before his granddaughter met and married Jamie.

Height

Seven years ago, Jamie released the album Taller, which some people saw as rather ironic as Jamie, himself, has described himself as “short”.

When chatting to The Mirror at the time, the star, who stands at around 5ft 4in, spoke about being “short” and how people seemed to notice it more after he tied the knot with the 6ft tall Sophie.

He said: “It is something I’ve been gently teased about my whole life, particularly when I married a taller woman.

“But I’ve taken something that could be my vulnerable spot and used it to say something.”

The Piano returns to Channel 4 on Sunday, July 12 at 9pm

A brand new famous face from Strictly makes their debut on Celebrity Gogglebox this week

Celebrity Gogglebox has signed up a Strictly Come Dancing favourite and her long-term partner for the new series.

The Channel 4 spin-off programme returned to screens last month for its eigth series, welcoming back firm favourites, such as Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness, Nick Grimshaw and niece Liv, and Denise Van Outen and Johnny Vaughan.

There are several new additions to the new series too, including Olivia Attwood and her mum Jennifer, Harry and Matt aka Nitro and Legend from Gladiators.

And now, it’s been confirmed that radio DJ and The Saturdays singer Mollie King will make an appearance on Friday’s episode (July 9) with her partner, former cricketer Stuart Broad.

Mollie is best known for being a member of chart-topping girl group The Saturdays. She also appeared on Strictly in 2017 and partnered with AJ Pritchard. Mollie was eliminated in the semi-final in December, finishing in fifth place.

As well as telly work, Mollie also has her own BBC Radio 1 alongside Matt Edmondson, in which they co-host from Mondays to Thursdays. Talking about her Gogglebox appearance, Mollie said: “Getting to do Celebrity Gogglebox with Stuart was such a lovely experience.

“Between juggling busy schedules, there’s nothing I enjoy more than switching off together in front of the TV, so it felt really special to share a little bit of that with viewers.”

Mollie added: “We had so many laughs filming it and, although I can’t promise we agreed on every programme, we had the best time.”

Meanwhile Stuart said about his appearance: “Celebrity Gogglebox was a genuinely enjoyable experience and a chance to show what Mollie and I are really like when the remote control is up for grabs. We had plenty of opinions, a few disagreements and a lot of laughs along the way.”

Other new faces on the latest series of Gogglebox include Strictly star George Clark and content creator Max Balegde comedian and actor, Julian Clary and actor and television presenter, Nigel Havers.

Talking about being on Celebrity Gogglebox Strictly 2025 finalist George Clarke also said: “I loved it, mainly because it gave me a full excuse to take the mick out of Max on national TV.

“He reacts to everything, so you’re never bored. It’s so easy to get into as well, you just sit there, say exactly what you’re thinking, and before you know it, we’ve gone completely off track!”

Coronation Street legend Nigel Havers also shared: “It’s a dream come true working with Julian on Gogglebox. I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening… (Julian wrote this).”

Celebrity Gogglebox airs every Friday at 9pm on Channel 4.