forced

Tiny UK island that ‘feels like another world’ forced to ban tourists from visiting on weekends

ONE of the UK’s prettiest islands has been forced to ban people travelling there once a week.

Ulva is home to just 16 people but after it starred on a TV show, has experienced ‘unprecedented interest’ by tourists.

Ulva has been described as ‘another world’ but will close on certain days to monitor tourists Credit: Alamy
A TV series about the opening a new hotel has thrust Ulva into the spotlight Credit: BBC

In a bid to control the number of people visiting the small Scottish island, the local and only ferry service has announced it will not run on Sundays.

Ulva is an island in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland found off the west coast of the Isle of Mull.

The island receives an influx of visitors during the spring and summertime – but this year has had more than ever.

This is a result of the TV show, Banjo & Ro’s Grand Island Hotel being aired on BBC Scotland and iPlayer.

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Banjo and Ro who hail from Australia appeared on the series renovating Ulva House – a Regency home that will open as a hotel.

Since the show aired, the island has become much busier – so much so that the ferry operator has decided to close on certain days.

The ferry is the only way to get to Ulva as it crosses the strait from Mull in around 5-minutes.

The foot passenger ferry operates on weekdays from 9am to 5.30pm and does not operate on Saturdays.

In recent news, the ferry announced it will no longer carry passengers across on Sundays either.

In a recent post, it said: “None of us could have predicted how significant the increase in the numbers of visitors would be, so to give ourselves, the Boathouse [restaurant] and fellow islanders the chance to recharge and prepare for the week ahead, we have made the difficult decision not to open Sundays this summer.”

For those who have already pre-booked a trip to the island in June, July or August, the ferry operator has said that it will still help visitors across.

The ferry operator from the Isle of Mull to Ulva will no longer operate on Sundays Credit: Alamy

Banjo and Ro already run The Boathouse on Ulva, a restaurant where visitors can pick up a coffee or local fish dishes.

The island is car-free island with cliffs, moorlands, woodland as well as quiet beaches and bays.

Talking to Sun Travel about the island, Banjo described it as “another world” and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot too.

Banjo said: “We’ve got otters, dolphins and seals swimming by, and one ferry you can take from Ulva is called Turus Mara which goes to the Treshnish Isles, it’s home to puffins.

“Often we go there for a puffin picnic just to sit with them, that’s one of our favourite things to do.

“There are more cows than people too so you’re likely to see a lot of them. And you’ve got a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights when the sun goes down.”

The Boathouse is a restaurant on the island run by Banjo and Ro Credit: Alamy

When it comes to activities on the island, of course Banjo suggests stopping at The Boathouse for a “pre-walk coffee” then a walk to Ormaig.

Here is where there are ruins of the island’s villages.

Another attraction is Livingston’s Cave, and nearby you’ll see “gorgeous view of Inch Kenneth where the Mitford sisters used to live”.

Then Banjo said: “Head back to The Boathouse for lunch – we serve fresh langoustines, crab and lobster which you can enjoy with a fresh bottle of wine.”

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Outdoor waterpark forced to close lido at short notice after temperatures hit 33C

Blackpill Lido, Swansea with water features and people relaxing.

A UK waterpark has closed suddenly as the country experiences 33C heat.

Blackpill Lido in Swansea, Wales, is a popular spot that is free for visitors – and is even more popular with the current heat the UK is experiencing and the half-term holidays.

Blackpill Lido, Swansea with water features and people relaxing.
Blackpill Lido in Swansea has closed after damage to the pool floor was found Credit: Supplied

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However, Swansea Council was forced to drain the lido yesterday after the pool floor became damaged.

It is the pool’s second closure in the past month, following sprinklers being stolen from the lido earlier this month.

According to Swansea Bay News, the council revealed that they had been forced to drain the pool on Tuesday after parts of the pool flooring came away.

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A spokesperson for the council said: “Sadly the Lido at Blackpill will be closed for a number of days due to a technical issue.

“Sincere apologies for any inconvenience this has caused and thank you for your understanding.”

In a later update, a council spokesperson added: “Unfortunately, the lido’s flooring has come away in some areas and we’re looking into how it happened.

“We’re aiming to get it fixed as quickly as possible over the coming days and then we’ll refill the lido.”

The council also revealed that even once repair works are complete, it could take a number of days to refill the lido, which will prolong the closure.

Currently, no expected reopening date has been announced.

Blackpill Lido underwent refurbishment in recent years, including launching new water features.



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Saturdays star Mollie King reveals heartbreaking reason she felt forced to book a C-section for her daughter’s birth

POP star Mollie King has admitted that the birth of her daughter Annabella was a bittersweet moment for her family.

She and cricket star Stuart Broad welcomed Annabella, now three, in November 2022 – at a time Mollie’s father Stephen was dying from a brain tumour.

Mollie King has admitted that the birth of her daughter Annabella was a bittersweet moment for her family (pictured in 2023) Credit: PA
Mollie welcomed Annabella, now three, at a time her father Stephen was dying from a brain tumour Credit: Instagram

The Saturdays singer-turned-Radio 1 host has revealed that the sad circumstances gave her the incentive to book a C-section for the birth – to make sure Stephen would be able to meet his granddaughter before he passed.

Stephen died 10 days later, but got to meet Annabella thanks to Mollie’s decision.

Chatting to Giovanna Fletcher on the Happy Mum podcast this week, Mollie, 38, revealed that she learnt of her father’s illness when she was six months pregnant.

“It happened in August. And I had seen my dad that morning. We had gone out for a walk with my dog and with Stuart as well. And everything seemed pretty fine, pretty normal,” she recalled.

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Mollie shares two children with cricket star Stuart Broad Credit: Instagram
The Saturdays singer-turned-Radio 1 host has revealed that the sad circumstances gave her the incentive to book a C-section for the birth Credit: Getty
Mollie and Annabella after the radio star competed in a 500km cycle across England to raise money for Red Nose Day 2024
Mollie was one fifth of The Saturdays – they released four studio albums and 18 singles between 2008 and 2014 before going on hiatus Credit: Getty

“And then that evening, I had a call from my sister to say Dad’s not been very well at all – he’s gone into hospital.

“I was like, Oh my gosh. Basically, over the next few days, we got the news that he had a brain tumour, which is obviously shocking because there was nothing – there were no signs.

“And you just don’t know how to process it.”

Mollie went on: “I think that I was trying to really get my head around it and come to terms with it. But also, I’m in this stage of like – I’m pregnant, this is meant to be such a magical happy time.

“I was really worried that he wasn’t going to meet Annabella. I was like, I can’t have him not meet my kids.”

Mollie – who has since welcomed a second daughter – reflected on how her father had been a very “present granddad” for her nephews, and couldn’t picture her own child never knowing him.

“I was like, I just can’t have him not meet my little girl. It can’t be like that,” she continued. “And so… because of that… I’d booked in to have a C-section.

“I was like, I just need to know that she is going to come out at a safe time, but I need her to meet dad.”

Mollie admotted that, after she made the decision, she felt self-conscious telling the hospital staff of her reasons; but that they were happy to accommodate the C-section, booking her in for it right away.

“I remember them saying to me at the hospital, they were like, you know, why are you choosing to do this? And I found it really hard to talk about at the time,” the All Fired Up songstress went on.

“I didn’t want to talk about it. I was like, oh, you know, just, I think it would be nice to know when she’s coming and all of this. 

“And then eventually I said, look, my dad is dying and we’ve only got a few weeks. I just need her out now. And they’re like, totally get it. Completely understand – let’s book you in for this date. And it was amazing.”

Mollie admitted that it was “really difficult” to then lose her father 10 days later, and says she has put off getting married to Stuart because she can’t imagine the day without her father there.

“Elements like walking down the aisle without him I still struggle with. There needs to be a gap so I can process it all,” she previously told The Times.

Mollie was one fifth of The Saturdays – they released four studio albums and 18 singles between 2008 and 2014 before going on hiatus. Mollie then turned to radio presenting.

She welcomed her second daughter, Liliana, with Stuart in January 2025.

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New Strictly host Josh Widdecombe & wife Rose forced to halt renovations of his £3m mansion in planning row

NEW Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdecombe was forced to halt work at his listed mansion after he began renovations without planning permission.

The comedian has already splashed some of his windfall on renovating his new family home in Devon.

New Strictly Come Dancing host Josh Widdecombe was forced to pause work at his listed mansion (edited)
Planning documents revealed they had failed to get permission to develop the listed property Credit: PA

Josh and his producer wife Rose Hanson wasted no time in beginning work on the listed property, only for planning documents to reveal they had failed to get permission.

In a retrospective application, his agent said it was “regrettable” but confirmed work was immediately “paused” upon realising.

On the application form, Rose confirmed work on the building had begun but had not been finished.

Permission was eventually granted this week by council planners under delegated powers after no objections were received.

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Rose said that while Josh was ‘good at writing jokes’, her talents like with interiors Credit: Getty
The couple’s representative said the lack of permission was “regrettable” but confirmed it had been paused Credit: BBC

The application was in Rose’s name, who previously said on social media she was the boss when it comes to renovations.

She wrote: “He’s good at writing jokes, I’m good with interiors – we stick to our lanes.”

The work includes a range of internal alterations including reopening a historic doorway, adjusting partitions and repositioning architraves.

A supporting statement on behalf of the couple said: “At ground floor level it is proposed to re-open an historic doorway that was blocked with 20th century studwork.”

It added that minor adjustments would be made to the back of the building to incorporate a new door from the garden.

It said: “The enclosed works have no impact on the setting of the building in any way, with the only external change proposed the inclusion of a new door to the garden store.”

They added that internally, none of the proposed works have an adverse impact on the character of the house.

In approving the application, a planning official described the impacts of the proposals as largely “positive” or “neutral”.

The couple moved to the home in Devon after selling their £2.3m London townhouse.

They said at the time they wanted to bring up their two children with more space and be closer to Josh’s childhood home.

Previous pictures of the listed property reveal five ensuite bedrooms and a separate one-bed coach house in the grounds, as well as a huge living room, large kitchen and dining room.

The posh home also comes with two offices, a gym and a wine cellar.

Speaking on the Parenting Hell podcast, Josh had told fellow comic Rob Beckett: “Just to be clear, it isn’t in Crinkley Bottom – it isn’t the house we used to see on Saturday nights on the TV.”

Josh and Rose also owns a £1M holiday home in Cornwall, that they restored and now rent out to holidaymakers.

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Charming seaside town with 100 independent shops that once forced Starbucks out

This picturesque Dublin village is a celebrity haven famed for its independent shops, stunning coastline and the fact that locals chose local businesses over Starbucks

For those who have never visited the breathtaking coastal village of Dalkey in south Dublin, perhaps Hollywood A-lister Matt Damon put it best.

He spent time there in 2020 while filming The Last Duel and, when quizzed about his temporary Irish home, he said: “Oh, it is incredible. It is one of the most beautiful places we have ever been. I mean, it is just absolutely gorgeous.” Continuing his praise, he told radio station Spin 1038: “Even in the lockdown when they were like ‘you’ve got to stay within 2km of your house’…

“I mean 2km here there are trees and forests and woods and ocean. I can’t think of any place you would rather want to be in a 2km radius of. It is a little like a fairy tale here.”

Travel 13km beyond that radius and you’ll find yourself in Dublin city centre, easily reachable via the DART train. Rock legend Bono calls neighbouring Killiney home, just south of Dalkey, while Van Morrison is among the area’s other well-known residents.

Yet, despite this picturesque and tranquil seaside town along Dublin’s coastline — often affectionately referred to as the “Amalfi Coast of Ireland” — being a magnet for tourists and celebrities alike, there is one notable absence: a Starbucks, reports the Express.

This may come as a surprise to many, given the American coffee giant’s presence in most bustling towns, particularly as the company celebrates 20 years of trading in Ireland this month. A Starbucks once existed in Dalkey back in 2008, but it shut its doors just 13 months later after locals staged a boycott in a show of solidarity with independent businesses.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Peter O’Donovan, who runs a specialist coffee shop with his wife called Pepper Laine just off the main street, said: “I don’t think it suits the Dalkey image. I think they were too big for somewhere so small, and people say that it took from other businesses in the area.”

He also noted that the absence of a Starbucks, which he believes tourists would naturally gravitate towards for convenience, has actually proved a boon for independent traders during the busy summer months.

Beyond coffee, the town’s most beloved attraction is Dalkey Castle, constructed around 1390 and once used as a loading port during the Middle Ages. It now houses a Writers’ Gallery featuring exhibits dedicated to literary greats such as James Joyce, who once lived nearby.

The charming town is also characterised by narrow streets lined with cafés, restaurants and quirky bookshops.

It also offers stunning walks that wind their way from the village down to the coastline, where locals frequently take a dip in the sea.

For the more adventurous visitor, there is a rock climbing centre at the old Dalkey Quarry near Killiney Hill, where thrill-seekers are rewarded with breathtaking views across Dublin. Visitors can also explore the bay, with excursions on offer to nearby Dalkey Island, where seals, birds and wild goats can be spotted — and perhaps even the occasional dolphin.

Other notable figures to have rented properties in the area include Pierce Brosnan, Mel Gibson and Russell Crowe, while in 2022 Harry Styles was photographed at the Vico Baths enjoying a swim, just as Matt Damon did during his visit to the bathing spot.

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Qantas flight forced to divert after ‘passenger bites flight attendant’

The plane was forced to be diverted and ended up at its target destination several hours behind schedule after refuelling in Tahiti

A Qantas flight bound for Dallas was forced to make an emergency diversion to Tahiti after a passenger allegedly bit a cabin crew member mid-flight.

The dramatic incident unfolded aboard QF21, which had departed Melbourne for the gruelling 18-hour journey to the US.

Crew members and passengers reportedly stepped in to assist the flight attendant after the alleged attack took place in the air.

The aircraft was diverted to Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, where local police boarded the plane and removed the passenger.

Qantas confirmed the man has since been banned from flying with the airline.

A spokesperson for the carrier said: “We have zero tolerance for disruptive or threatening behaviour on our flights.”

After refuelling in Tahiti, the aircraft resumed its journey to Dallas but arrived several hours behind schedule.

It is not yet known what sparked the alleged altercation onboard.

It comes after a weekend of flight chaos.

Airports in Japan, China, India, the UAE, Singapore and Thailand have all been impacted, with airlines cancelling 366 flights and delaying a further 2,949 services, according to aviation tracking data reported by Travel and Tour World.

Major airlines affected include China Eastern Airlines, IndiGo, AirAsia and Etihad Airways, with disruption concentrated around major transit hubs including Tokyo Haneda Airport, Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Kempegowda International Airport, Singapore Changi Airport and Zayed International Airport.

Industry analysts say the disruption is being driven by a combination of heavy storms across parts of Asia, congestion at key airports and the continuing impact of Middle East airspace restrictions, which have forced airlines to reroute aircraft and absorb significantly higher fuel costs.

The wider aviation sector is also dealing with fallout from geopolitical tensions linked to the conflict involving Iran, which has led to airspace closures and longer flight times on major Europe-Asia routes.

It has been reported this week that several carriers have already begun scaling back international schedules because of soaring operating costs.

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The popular European country being hit by the worst airport queues as ‘families forced to wait six hours’

WAITING times in airports have increased since the introduction of EES – but one destinations has had travellers queueing for up to six hours.

Portugal is a beautiful country for a family break, but the lengthy queues mean that some are spending longer lining up in the airport than they do on the plane.

Portugal has been experiencing very high queues at its airports Credit: Alamy
Some travellers have experienced queues up to six hours Credit: Alamy

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EES delays and travel chaos have dominated the news, and some airports in Portugal in particular have passengers waiting in very long queues.

One travel blogger posted on Instagram: “Last week a family I advised landed in Lisbon and stood in line for 6 hours and 40 minutes. Their toddler slept on a suitcase. They missed their transfer to the Algarve.

“EES (the EU’s new biometric entry system) is now live. Faro processes 7x more summer traffic than its capacity. Luggage handlers are striking April through June. And the airport you choose to land in will define your first 24 hours in Portugal.”

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The flight time between the UK and Lisbon is up to three hours, so some British travellers are standing in the airport for longer than they’re on the plane.

Queues through Lisbon Airport have been causing frustration amongst many travellers.

One Brit wrote just yesterday on X: “Warning if you are flying to Portugal any time now, actually spent longer queuing than the actual flight, was a shambles with half the machines not working, and further queues to passport control.”

Bottlenecking is a cause of lengthy wait times at Lisbon and Faro Credit: Alamy

Another said leaving Lisbon Airport was the “one of the worst passport control experiences” with hours of waiting.

The EU’s EES (entry/ exit) system has increased the queuing time for inward and outward passengers by four and even five times as much, according to The Resident.

It’s not just Lisbon either; Faro Airport in the south is experiencing lengthy delays too with some saying that they’ve queued from the terminal to airside.

One big reason for the delays that Lisbon and Faro airports suffer from is caused by what’s called ‘bottlenecking’.

Essentially it’s airport congestion from when lots of flights land at the same time, or delays cause lots of passengers to be in one place at the same time.

One holidaymaker called Lisbon Airport one ‘of the worst passport control experiences’ Credit: Alamy

They occur mostly at security checkpoints, passport control, boarding gates, and baggage handling areas resulting in lengthy queues.

One of our own Travel Reporters experienced the situation herself in Lanzarote when multiple flights landing at the same time ended up in a three-hour queue through the airport.

The queues have been getting so bad that airlines like Ryanair have even called for EES to be suspended until September – after the peak summer travel period.

While you can’t avoid EES queues, there are ways to make them less uncomfortable.

Make sure to check out our tips from where to sit on the plane to the best time to take a flight.



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GMB forced to cancel Katie Price and Lee Andrews interview as star says ‘where the hell is my husband?’

KATIE Price and Lee Andrews have scrapped their first joint TV interview on Good Morning Britain.

The couple, who tied the knot in January, were due to appear on the ITV daytime series together on Tuesday.

Lee Andrews and Katie Price have scrapped their first joint TV interview Credit: Instagram
They were due to appear on ITV daytime series GMB together Credit: ITV

Though after the self-styled businessman failed to travel to the UK, GMB media posts advertising the segment were hurriedly removed from the programme’s social media accounts after ITV staffers were told Lee would be unable to reach the UK.

GMB anchor Susanna Reid then confirmed Katie would appear on-screen solo.

She told viewers during the live show: “Katie Price is back with us in the studio.

“We invited them both [Katie and Lee] into the studio and initially yes, we though that would happen.

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Katie confirmed the businessman would not be travelling from his home in Dubai Credit: Getty
A source again confirmed to us how Lee has a travel ban and cannot leave the UK Credit: wesleeeandrews/Instagram

“But Lee didn’t make his flight from Dubai, we are going to find out why when Katie joins us alone after 8”.

There is ongoing speculation that her husband Lee, 43, is unable to leave the United Arab Emirates city after allegedly forging his ex-girlfriend Dina Taji’s signature to secure a £200,000 loan – something he’s strongly denied.

Katie, 47, then posted on her social media – in a video which has now been deleted – to confirm the switch up.

She said on social media: “Where The Hell Is My Husband? Lee will not be on Good Morning Britain with me!!”

Our source said Katie ‘believed’ Lee would be travelling to London for the chat Credit: Getty
He has previously denied being subject to a travel ban Credit: Instagram/mistraesthetics/

She added: “Well he is not coming, gutting really as he said he was coming, so I’m getting the house ready for me”.

A source mocked the cancellation and told The Sun: “Lee has a travel ban so he was never going to make GMB for a sit down interview with Katie.

“He assured them he was flying over, even Katie believed him – then it was all cancelled.

“Lee is still in Dubai because he has a travel ban that stops him from leaving.

Who is Katie Price’s husband Lee Andrews?

KATIE Price tied the knot with Lee Andrews in January 2026. Yet who is he?

  • Katie Price has married businessman fiancé Lee Andrews in a whirlwind wedding
  • It is the fourth time Katie, 47, has been a bride. She has also been married to Peter AndreAlex Reid and Kieran Hayler
  • Katie and Lee met just after being introduced on social media
  • Lee claimed he is a billionaire in a failed clip from his acting career
  • He now claims to be a Dubai-based businessman
  • Yet The Sun has unmasked him as a fantasist who faked celebrity links using AI-generated photos and recently talked about marrying two other women
  • Failed actor is just another title to add to Lee’s questionable CV, after he claimed to have once worked as the Director of Philanthropy at The Prince’s Trust (now The King’s Trust)
  • Lee also shared images – since proven to be AI – of him working with Elon Musk and Kim Kardashian
  • It’s been revealed shameless Lee told former girlfriends that he had studied at Cambridge University, and has a PhD in biotechnology science
  • But The Sun has seen a response from the university explaining it could not find a record of Lee being registered as a student with a date of birth they had provided
  • His LinkedIn profile says Lee has been a Member of the Board of Advisors to the Labour Party since 2015
  • Lee was also mocked for repeating the exact same wedding proposal on Katie – that he did for another woman just four months ago.

“The sooner people stop falling for his claims he can leave Dubai the better.

“It’s a waste of time and energy.”

Katie returned to the UK from Dubai without Lee – who she married within just weeks of meeting him in at the start of the year – last week.

Despite the change, he has continued to re-post GMB uploads about their interview.

Back in April, Katie appeared to confirm he is subject to a travel ban

As such, she is the one doing the graft with the long haul flights.

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Will Keir Starmer Be Forced Out? UK Local Election Results Raise Pressure on Labour Leader

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to continue as leader, despite heavy losses in local elections raising doubts about his ability to govern. Critics within the Labour Party have suggested he should resign, but currently, there is no leadership contest. Starmer’s personal approval ratings are among the lowest for a British leader, and Labour is trailing behind the Reform UK party in opinion polls, indicating a potential loss in the national election scheduled for 2029. However, some cabinet ministers have publicly supported him, and calls for his resignation mostly come from fringe party members and opposing parties.

The lack of immediate challenges to Starmer arises from several factors. Labour is facing significant domestic and international issues, such as financial constraints and rising living costs, that a new leader would also have to address. Among the possible successors, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham lacks a parliamentary seat, and former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner is still dealing with unresolved tax issues. The third candidate, Wes Streeting, is currently serving as health minister.

A leadership challenge can occur if there is enough support within Labour for a new candidate. However, it is generally more difficult for Labour to remove a sitting prime minister compared to the Conservative Party. Any candidate wishing to challenge Starmer must secure support from 20% of Labour Members of Parliament, which would mean around 81 backers. Candidates also need backing from grassroots Labour Party organizations and affiliated groups. Starmer would automatically be on the ballot if he chooses to contest. Some lawmakers suggest Starmer should establish a timeline for his departure to allow for a smooth transition. Starmer insists he intends to lead the party into the next election.

With information from Reuters

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One of the UK’s oldest airports that was forced to close 67 years ago

THE UK’s first international airport was forced to closed more than 67 years ago – but there is a way to visit it.

Croydon Airport in Surrey which was originally named London Terminal Aerodrome, first opened on March 29 in 1920.

Croydon Airport in Surrey has been turned into a museum Credit: Alamy
It was once the biggest airport in London until its closure in 1959 Credit: Alamy

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The airport was developed for the efforts of World War I and is known as the birthplace of the ‘Mayday’ emergency call when it was created in n 1923 by F.S. Mockford, Croydon’s Senior Radio Officer.

Croydon Airport was even Britain’s main international airport from 1920 until the outbreak of World War II in 1939.

However, Croydon Airport officially closed on September 30, 1959 as it didn’t have enough space to accommodate the larger, faster aircraft after World War II.

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But all of this history can now be explored at the airport site which has since been transformed into a museum inside its former terminal and control tower.

The Croydon Airport Visitor Centre is a volunteer led micro-museum which is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month.

Visitors must book in advance onto a guided tour – which takes around an hour – with free time afterwards to explore the museum without the guide later on.

On Tripadvisor, people praised the attraction, with one calling it a “gem of a place”.

They added: “Guides are very knowledgeable and friendly and the history is still kept alive. Great for young and old alike.”

The next open day will be on June 7, 2026.

The airport museum is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month Credit: Alamy

Tickets for open days are usually on sale two weeks prior to the event, and you can book in advance on the website. Tickets for adults start from £10 and children from £2.50.

The airport was once home to airlines like Imperial Airways, the predecessor to British Airways.

Passengers could fly from Croydon Airport to European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Berlin – it then provided long-haul routes to the likes of India, Africa, the Middle East, and even Australia.

Famous faces even used the airport during its heyday including Winston Churchill, who took flying lessons there, and Amy Johnson who took the record-breaking flight to Australia in 1930.

The site was even home to the world’s first airport hotel, the Aerodrome Hotel, with the development costing around £267,000.



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All of the airlines that have been forced to close this year

THREE airlines officially went into liquidation this year with many passengers having their flights affected.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Spirit Airlines ceases global operations amid fuel cost pressures
Spirit Airlines went into liquidation earlier this year Credit: EPA
Illustration of two Ecojet airplanes flying above clouds.
EcoJet had the aim of being the world’s first electric airlineCredit: Ecojet

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Spirit Airlines

Just days ago, US airline Spirit Airlines announced it was shutting down and would be cancelling all of its flights.

The budget carrier had been in talks with the US government about securing a rescue deal to save it from collapse, but in early May announced its liquidation.

The airline said on its website it had “started an orderly wind-down of our operations, effective immediately”.

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Spirit had filed for its second bankruptcy in recent years – but experts said rising fuel costs caused by the war in Iran had pushed it over the edge.

According to The Independent, the airline had over 4,000 domestic flights scheduled through mid-May and has refunded most of its customers.

Ascend Airways

Ascend Airways went into liquidation in late April.

The airline provided aircraft for other carriers, with previous ones including Oman Air, Air Sierra Leone and Tui Airways.

A company email suggested a combination of economic pressure, soaring UK costs and a lack of contracts was the cause of the collapse.

An insider told Sun Travel: “It’s to do with the economy, we couldn’t get contracts, the UK is a lot more expensive than Europe.

The fuel situation had a massive effect on it as well.

EcoJet 

Earlier this year, Edinburgh’s EcoJet went bust – without ever actually launching a flight.

It was founded in 2023 by entrepreneur Dale Vince and with the aim of being the world’s first electric airline.

In early May, The Herald reported that Opus Restructuring were appointed the formal liquidators for the firm. 

A spokesperson said: “EcoJet was a start-up business and has no material assets.

“The members have elected to fund the liquidation process to ensure that the company’s employees receive their full statutory entitlements.”

EcoJet had planned flights from Edinburgh to Southampton and wanted to launch other journeys across Europe – but the flights never took off.



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Beloved English museum with 50 heritage trams is forced to shut down forever

A BELOVED British museum has been forced to shut permanently after the building was deemed unsafe.

The museum is dedicated to preserving over 50 historic trams – an integral part of the town’s transport heritage.

The beloved Tramtown museum is on the site of a former tram depot Credit: Visit Blackpool
Some of Blackpool’s most historic trams are housed in Tramtown Museum Credit: Facebook / Blackpool Tramtown

Electrical faults in the building have made Blackpool‘s Tramtown museum uninhabitable to the public, a structural engineer’s survey said.

The former working tram depot dates back over 100 years, becoming a dedicated museum in 2021 following seven years of heritage tours.

The museum had previously been given a £50,000 lifeline from the Government’s Pride in Place Impact Fund to fix the major electrical faults in the building.

Blackpool Council suggested these repairs would allow the museum to reopen for a short term period.

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The building has been forced to shut due to electrical faults making it uninhabitable Credit: Facebook / Blackpool Tramtown
Green tram on Blackpool sea front, England Credit: Facebook / Blackpool Tramtown

However, a video from April 28 on the Tramtown YouTube channel revealed the building could not be used, leaving volunteers concerned how they were previously allowed into the building given how unsafe it was.

This unique museum gave a rare insight into the history of Blackpool’s trams and illuminations, welcoming over 500 visitors in its opening week.

Affordably priced at £5 per ticket, or £2.50 for children, the museum included a small, donation-based cafe, built for visitors less than a year before its closure.

Blackpool Council leader Lynn Williams said: “While the work was ongoing fixing the electrics at Tramtown, an independent structural engineer carried out a survey of the building.

“That independent report has come back saying the building is unsafe.

“The only public entrance is unsafe and we can’t gamble with the safety of volunteers and visitors by opening an unsafe building.”

Blackpool council leaders now hope to submit a joint funding bid and steering group to maintain a long-term future for the museum.

“I want to make very clear that this is not the end of heritage trams in Blackpool. The news will double our resolve to set up a joint steering group to create a better future for Tramtown and our historic trams,” Williams continued.

Blackpool Transport’s new managing director, Lea Harrison, said: “Blackpool is as famous for its historic trams as it is for its tower and the Pleasure Beach and we are fully committed to preserving the town’s rich tramway heritage for future generations to enjoy.”

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Zayn Malik breaks silence and issues emotional statement as he’s forced to cancel 22 shows after being hospitalised

ZAYN Malik shared a heartfelt statement with fans after cancelling 22 gigs following his shock hospitalisation.

The former One Direction star revealed he is now back at home and recovering from his mystery illness – but his world tour dates have taken a hit.

Zayn Malik was hospitalised with a mystery illness recently, but has since revealed he is back at home Credit: Getty
His illness was severe enough to force him to cancel a mass of tour dates Credit: Getty

The singer has been forced to cancel the entire US leg of his KONNAKOL tour, as well as some UK performances.

In an Instagram story today, he wrote: “To my fans : Thank you so much for all the support and love you’ve shown me on the album release and more importantly, your love, prayers and well wishes for my health.

“I’ve felt it, and it’s meant the world. I’ve been at home recovering and I’m doing well and will be better and stronger than before.

“I’ve had to take another look at my schedule for the months ahead and reduce the number of shows on the KONNAKOL Tour.

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Zayn previously shared a photo of himself in hospital Credit: Instagram/Zayn
Zayn and Louis Tomlinson reportedly had a falling out on the set of their Netflix documentary Credit: Instagram

“I want to make sure I still get out and see as many of you as I possibly can. I’m really looking forward to playing these shows for you, and I hope to see the rest of you around the world very soon.”

The cause of Zayn’s hospitalisation is not yet known, but in a previous statement, he thanked his cardiologist, which suggests it could be to do with his heart and or blood vessels.

Alongside a photo of him in a hospital bed, he wrote: “To my fans – thank you to all of you for your love and support now and always.

“[It’s] been a long week and am still unexpectedly recovering. Heartbroken that I can’t see you all this week, I wouldn’t be in the place I am today without you guys and am so thankful for your understanding.

“Thank you to the incredible hospital staff or Drs, nurses, cardiologists, management, admin, and everyone who has helped along the way and continue to. You are all legends! Big big love xxx z.”

The health scare came amid the revelation from The Sun that Zayn had punched his close pal and former band member Louis Tomlinson as they found themselves in a vicious row whilst filming for their new Netflix documentary.

Louis and Zayn were joining forces to film a three-part road trip docuseries for the streaming service, which has since been axed.

Sources told The Sun their astonishing on-set row was triggered by a remark from Zayn about Louis’ mum Johannah Deakin, who died of leukaemia in 2016.

The Sun understands Louis and Zayn have not spoken since the incident six months ago.

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Lewis Capaldi forced to halt US gig after huge blunder, telling crowds ‘I don’t know what the f*** just happened?’

LEWIS Capaldi was forced to halt one of his performances in the US, exclaiming he didn’t know “what the f*** just happened.”

The popular singer, 29, is currently on his Survive Tour after taking some time away from the spotlight to prioritise his mental and physical health.

Lewis Capaldi had to halt one of his shows in the US due to a technical difficulty Credit: Instagram
He kept the crowd entertained during the error, then decided to sing the song without any backing music instead Credit: Instagram

But during his gig at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre he encountered a major technical issue, leaving him unable to sing.

Lewis giggled next to the mic, sharing with the crowd: “Something has happened. Usually I’d be singing by now.

“Something technological has gone wrong. I’m not sure what the f***s happened.”

He then joked: “This feels like… erectile dysfunction in a way,” before checking in with his team to see if the error had been fixed.

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Fans adored the acoustic performance, saying they were glad to be part of the “technical difficulties” Credit: Getty
Lewis is currently on his Survive tour after taking a hiatus from music Credit: Getty

After learning it hadn’t, Lewis continued to entertain the crowd, saying: “Right, we’re not back. Hi.”

Fans of the musician found the moment hilarious and loved the way he chose to handle it – both with humour and then by deciding to go ahead with an acoustic performance while the tech issue was fixed.

One user on Instagram said: “Who needs all the technology with a voice like that?!?”

A second shared: “It was a once in a lifetime experience and we were very excited to be part of the “technical issue”.

A third added: “Well no one can claim he can’t sing live.”

Lewis’ tour shares the same name as his latest EP release which came out last year.

The new music followed him taking a two-year hiatus from the industry, after his anxiety and Tourette’s syndrome symptoms increased.

After Lewis finishes up his shows in America, he’s due to perform in Vancouver before heading over to the UK.

His first UK tour date is on June 19, taking place at the Isle Of Wight Festival.

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Spain’s outdoor terraces could be forced to close during peak summer months in strict new rules

THERE’S bad news for Brits heading to Spain this summer as they might not be able to enjoy a drink in the sun on an outdoor terrace.

Under new rules, terraces in Spain will be forced to close when the weather gets too hot.

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

The rules – that were campaigned for by hospitality unions – will apply when the State of Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issue an orange or red alert.

AEMET’s orange alert means there is a major risk such as severe storms, heavy snow or intense heat and then for a red alert, it is an extreme risk and includes extreme rainfall, life-threatening storms and dangerously high temperatures.

In the case of exceptionally hot weather, restaurants, bars and cafes have to close their terraces if there is not enough shade or cooling systems for staff.

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The rules are likely to apply during the hottest hours of the day.

Areas across Spain reach high temperatures, especially during July and August, with some destinations reaching over 40C.

Even though closure of outdoor spaces is a last resort measure, if a bar, restaurant or cafe does not follow the new rules then it could face a fine of more than €50,000 (£43,326) in extreme cases.

For tourists, this could mean when temperatures reach high levels they won’t be able to grab a cold drink and sit on a restaurant’s terrace.

If you do want a drink though, you can still head inside as this is a shaded area.

As a result of the new rules, businesses across Spain are being encouraged to create different schedules for staff, with more breaks so they can stay hydrated.



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Smaller European airports could be forced to CLOSE due to fuel crisis and new entry rule chaos

A NUMBER of smaller European airports could face closure due to both the Iran war crisis and new entry rules being rolled out.

Experts have warned that regional airports are under threat due to mass cancellations and delays as a result of the fuel crisis and new European travel rules.

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

The Airports Council of Europe (ACI Europe) said that regional airports face “nothing short of an existential threat” if flights continue to be cancelled.

In a release, ACI Europe stated: “The dramatic increase in jet fuel prices in Europe – peaking at more than $1800/ton (£1332/ton) earlier this month – is resulting in air fare increases and tight capacity management by airlines.

“Regional airports are the most exposed to the fallout of these adjustments, as demand on their routes is typically much more price-sensitive and price-elastic – and thus less profitable for airlines.

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“This means that when considering where to cut capacity, airlines are more likely to do so on routes serving regional airports, as shown by the recent decision by Lufthansa to shut down its regional subsidiary, CityLine.”

Olivier Jankovec, the director general of ACI Europe, added: “The current levels of jet fuel prices and the prospect of a new cost of living crisis mean that many regional airports across our continent are likely to face both a supply and demand shock.”

ACI Europe also revealed that issues could be made worse by the new Entry/Exit System (EES) that is now in place across Europe and “is set to wreak havoc at regional airports serving popular tourist destinations this summer“.

The body added that airports should be allowed to suspend the new system at any point, if airport queues become too long.

It also shared that “regional airports are part of Europe’s critical infrastructure” as they are responsible for 35 per cent of flights.

In order to ease the threat on regional airports, ACI Europe is calling to scrap national aviation taxes as well as keeping a safety net of air for smaller airports.



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Virgin Island star forced to look at her own ‘ugly’ vagina after admitting painful issue has stopped her from having sex

A VIRGIN Island star was tonight forced to look at her own “ugly” vagina after admitting to having a painful issue that has stopped her from ever having sex.

The wild Channel 4 reality show is back on the box, and the latest episode continued to shock.

Virgin Island star Joy tonight opened up about a painful condition she has that prevents her from having sex Credit: Channel 4
Joy was then told to look at vagina in a mirror Credit: Channel 4
Joy said she thought her intimate area was ‘ugly’ Credit: Channel 4

Virgin Island sees a group of people, who are yet to take the plunge into the world of nookie, get help from a team of sex gurus, headed up by Dr Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman.

On tonight’s episode, it was Joy‘s turn to face her sexual fears.

The 22-year-old event coordinator from Falmouth, suffers from vaginismus – a medical condition that causes the vaginal muscles to involuntarily tighten, which can make sex extremely painful or impossible.

However, Joy was seen heading off for a session with one of the resident sex experts, to try and help her overcome this painful issue.

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Viewers then watched as she was given a mirror by the expert and told to look at her vagina.

The sex guru assured her she was “beautiful” down there, but Joy was not convinced.

Referring to her intimate area, Joy said: “It’s weird because I feel like she looks ugly.”

Before going on Virgin Island, she revealed: “Despite having a Vaginismus diagnosis for years, I had only made minimal progress and was starting to lose hope of ever being healed.”

The new TV star also added that she also signed up to Virgin Island because she wanted to “overcome her religious shame around sex”.

Also on tonight’s show, fans saw shy Bertie, 24, be given a masterclass in sex positions by expert Celeste.

Joy previously revealed how she is weighed down by religious shame Credit: Channel 4 / Rob Parfitt

The event volunteer from Taunton, who suffers from low self-esteem and body confidence issues, was given his first taste of simulating sex by leading expert, Celeste.

The fully clothed pair were seen humping in various positions, in a bid to boost Bertie’s confidence.

At the end of the session a happy Bertie then turned to Celeste and said: “You are an absolute miracle worker! There is no way I’m leaving!”

Before going on the wild Channel 4 reality show, the shy star described himself as a “grade-A virgin” who had never kissed anyone before.

However, he previously admitted that he worried that “sex would feel overwhelming” and was scared of reaching middle age without experiencing intimacy.

Tonight’s episode of Virgin Island also saw Bertie take on a sex positions workshop Credit: Channel 4
Bertie was seen simulating sex on Celeste on tonight’s Virgin Island Credit: Channel 4

This season of Virgin Island sees the 12 participants take on turn-on classes, as well as kink exploration.

Speaking about the new series, expert Celeste said: “I feel like kinks are really really important because so many people have them.

“When I think of it, I think like sex is really play time. And kinks are one way that people play. And a lot of people like to play with power or sensation. 

“And all of that enhances the intensity and arousal and experience. 

“So we wanted people to have access to all these different kinds of feelings.”

Virgin Island continues tonight at 9pm on Channel 4

The show is headed up by sex experts Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman Credit: Handout

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UK holiday company with trips across Greece and Turkey forced to close after 23 years

Sunny day on Aegean coast of Turkey

A LUXURY UK holiday company offering trips to Europe and Asia has closed down.

Salamander Voyages – which is based in Belfast – has gone into administration.

The company used to sell private boat holidays in Turkey, Greece, Italy and Croatia.

According to The Gazette, administrators were appointed on April 22.

On its website, Salamader Voyages states: “After 23 years of wonderful sailing in the Aegean Sea, we are very sad to announce Salamander Voyages has taken the difficult decision to close its doors.

“Please note that on 22 April 2026 Scott Murray and Ian Davison of Keenan Corporate Finance Ltd were appointed as Joint Administrators of the Company.

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“For any creditor queries, please contact the Joint Administrators’ office by telephone (028 9023 3023) or email (info@keenancf.com).”

The luxury holidays didn’t come cheap though, with sailings costing from £3,000 per person.

Upcoming trips included a sailing of the Turkish Gulf between June 15 and 22, heading to “small villages, pristine secluded bays and less-known historical sites”.

And between October 5 and 17 there was another Turkish sailing in the western half of the Gulf.

Claudia Winkleman has even previously been a guest onboard, commenting: “The holiday was absolutely amazing. The boat is beautiful and the crew were outstanding.

“The most relaxing week of our lives. We love you Salamander.”

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Israel issues forced evacuation orders for southern Lebanon in escalation | US-Israel war on Iran News

Hezbollah rejects allegations from Benjamin Netanyahu that it is undermining the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire.

Israel has issued new forced evacuation notices for areas in southern Lebanon, ordering residents of seven towns that lie beyond its so-called “buffer zone” to leave, ramping up the conflict with Hezbollah despite a US-brokered ceasefire.

An Israeli military spokesperson said in a statement on X on Sunday that the Lebanese armed group was violating the ceasefire ⁠and that Israel would act against it, telling residents to head north and west.

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The towns are north of the Litani River, in an area where Israeli troops have continued military operations despite the ceasefire. They lie outside of what Israel has declared a “buffer zone”, an area stretching roughly 10km (6 miles) north of the border inside southern Lebanon where Israeli forces remain.

Hezbollah rejected allegations that it is undermining the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, saying its continued attacks are a “legitimate response to the enemy’s persistent violations of the ceasefire”, which it claims have exceeded 500 incidents.

The Iran-aligned group said in a statement on Telegram on Sunday that it shouldn’t be linked to a ceasefire that it didn’t approve, as it had “no say or position”, adding that the group will not “place out bets on a failed diplomacy that has proven its ineffectiveness.”

“It must be understood that Hezbollah’s violations are, in practice, dismantling the ceasefire,” Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a weekly cabinet meeting.

The US-mediated ceasefire, which started on April 16 and has been extended to mid-May, has brought a significant reduction in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, though both sides have continued to fire at each other, trading blame over breaches.

Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Tyre, Heidi Pett, said “there have been multiple airstrikes across south Lebanon” on Sunday, with many people fleeing to the towns of Sidon and Tyre.

“We once again have thousands of people leaving their homes, joining the hundreds of thousands who were already previously displaced,” she said.

A displaced man, who fled his home after an Israeli evacuation order, sits in a university-turned-shelter in Sidon,
A displaced man, who fled his home after an Israeli evacuation order, sits in a university-turned-shelter in Sidon, Lebanon, April 13, 2026 [Aziz Taher/Reuters]

Hezbollah said it attacked Israeli troops inside Lebanon as well as the rescue force that came to evacuate them, targeting a newly established Israeli artillery position in the town of Biyyada with a swarm of drones.

It also claimed two drone attacks on a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the town of Taybeh, saying casualties were reported among Israeli forces, without giving further details.

‘The security of Israel’

The Israeli army said a 19-year-old soldier, Sergeant Idan Fooks, was killed “during combat” in southern Lebanon, while five others were injured.

“From our perspective, what obliges us is the security of Israel, the security of our soldiers, the security of our communities,” Netanyahu was cited as saying at a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, by Reuters news agency.

Under the terms of the truce, Israel reserves the right to respond to “planned, imminent or ongoing attacks” and has been striking what it says are Hezbollah targets in south Lebanon almost every day.

The Israeli military said it struck Hezbollah’s “military infrastructure sites used to advance attacks,” in a post on X.

Since the war was renewed between Israel and Hezbollah on March 2, at least 2,509 people have been killed and 7,755 wounded by Israeli attacks, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.

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