Free

GREGGS sausage rolls are seriously taking off — as easyJet is serving free ones on board for the first time.

The budget airline is dishing out the popular flaky pastries to mark the opening of a base in the heart of Greggs country.

And passengers can dip them in a range of new sauces inspired by destinations around the world, including kebab.

The collaboration celebrates the launch of easyJet’s new hub at Newcastle International Airport — 75 years after Greggs’ first shop was opened in the city.

Holidaymakers flying from there yesterday were treated to a free sausage roll, and all week punters can scoff one from a special easyJet service landing in the city centre.

They will also be offered limited-edition dips, such as Turkish-style kebab, with aromatic choices of lemon, vinegar and smoky paprika.

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There is also Tunisian– inspired harissa ketchup, or Italy’s silky affogato flavour, with hints of deep-roasted coffee, cocoa and vanilla.

Flyers tucked into their favourites yesterday.

Easyjet’s new Tyneside base is the airline’s 11th in the UK, and will offer more than 80 flights a week to 22 destinations.

It will also support around 1,200 jobs, including 140 direct roles for pilots and cabin crew.

Garry Wilson, CEO for its holidays business, said: “This is a major milestone for us, so partnering with Greggs, a true Geordie icon and one of the city’s most famous exports, felt like the perfect way to ­celebrate our arrival.”

Greggs director Hannah Squirrell added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the local community, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than with a sausage roll.”

John Gregg founded the bakery in Newcastle in 1939, and its first outlet opened in the city’s Gosforth in 1951.

March 20 (UPI) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday ruled in favor of allowing a so-called street preacher in Mississippi to challenge a law prohibiting where he can protest.

The high court said Gabriel Olivier can file a civil suit in response to a law in Brandon, Miss., that prevents public protests outside of designated areas. He said the law violates the 1st Amendment’s free speech protection.

Police in Brandon, Miss., arrested Olivier in 2021 as he and a group of protesters shouted slurs and insults at concertgoers as they entered an amphitheater. Some members of the group also held up graphic signs showing aborted fetuses.

He was convicted of violating the city’s laws banning protesters from coming within about 265 feet away of the amphitheater and from using loudspeakers that can be heard from more than 100 feet away, CNN reported.

Olivier pleaded no contest to the charges and was ordered to pay a fine and serve a year of unsupervised probation. Following his sentence, he sued the city, saying its law violated his free speech rights.

A 1994 Supreme Court ruling — Heck v. Humphrey — though says that a defendant convicted of a crime can’t then sue over the legality of their conviction. Otherwise, he and other defendants could be cleared of their convictions outside of the normal criminal appeals process, The Washington Post reported.

Olivier’s lawyers said his case should be allowed to proceed because success wouldn’t affect the result of his conviction, for which he wasn’t imprisoned. The Supreme Court agreed with a unanimous vote.

The ruling did not pass judgment on the constitutionality of the city of Brandon’s laws, only that Olivier is allowed to challenge them.

Argentina’s spunkiest duo Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso have checked themselves into a wellness center for their latest album, “Free Spirits.”

Out Thursday, the LP pushes the limits of the duo’s experimentation, combining unpredictable blends of trap, rock and pop while still maintaining their raunchy sense of humor and musicianship. The 12-track project features collaborations with British musicians Sting and Fred Again, as well as California’s very own Anderson .Paak and Jack Black.

It’s been a busy year for the avant-garde pair, who won their first Grammy in February for their nine-track EP, “Papota.”

At the ceremony, they hinted at a rebrand for the upcoming album; both appearing on the red carpet wearing matching tan robes — a look far less flashy than the custom Versace outfits they wore at the Latin Grammys in November.

“We are trying to heal that velocity that we had in the past year. If you go so fast, you’re going to crash,” Paco Amoroso told Billboard in February. “We are healing ourselves now.”

Following their Tiny Desk performance in Oct. 2024 — which has reached over 27 million views to date — the Buenos Aires singers have etched an unpredictable, kooky path in the crazed music industry, often by criticizing it.

First, their 2025 EP “Papota” humorized their rapid ascent to stardom and poked fun at how artists must dilute their image to fit the mainstream.

Now through their LP “Free Spirits,” they continue to comment on the trope of the burned-out, exhausted artist who through a soul-stripping retreat can find renewal once again.

That purported healing is taking place at “Free Spirits Wellness Center,” a mock-up clinic led by Sting dedicated to advance physiological and cognitive expansion for people working under intense pressure.

In a music video released Wednesday, Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso checked themselves in after taking home five gramophone trophies at the 26th Latin Grammys.

Among the 12-step treatments are skin-changing artotherapy, where patients endure a painful micro-needling session combined with a non-goal-oriented painting session; cryo cerebral rebirth, where the brain regresses to its early developmental stages; and temperature contrast celibation, where they receive an ice bath combined with sexual arousal restrain.

None of these treatments make clear sense — mainly because they aren’t real — but that’s exactly Ca7riel & Paco Amoroso’s point: Fame is all make-believe pandemonium and there is no real recovery from it.

Afroman testified Tuesday in a civil lawsuit brought by seven members of an Ohio sheriff’s office who allege he used their likenesses without permission in music videos and on merchandise and spread lies about them after they raided his home in August 2022.

The fault, the “Because I Got High” rapper maintained, was not his. On Wednesday, the jury was deliberating the case.

The 51-year-old, whose real name is Joseph Edgar Foreman, said on the stand Tuesday that he was in the right, according to local station WCPO Channel 9 in Cincinnati.

“The whole raid was a mistake. All of this is their fault,” Foreman testified, taking the stand wearing sunglasses with American flag lenses and a red, white and blue suit and matching tie made of fabric recalling the American flag. “If they hadn’t wrongly raided my house, there would be no lawsuit, I would not know their names, they wouldn’t be on my home surveillance system, and there would be no songs, nothing.”

Officers were acting in 2022 on a warrant showing probable cause that drugs and drug paraphernalia would be found on the property. The warrant also alleged that trafficking and kidnapping had happened there. No evidence of a crime was found, and no charges were filed. Foreman wasn’t home during the raid but was able to see at least part of it via a video recorded by his ex-wife and footage captured on his home security system before law enforcement turned off those cameras.

It was that footage that was used in the various videos the rapper subsequently posted, including a music video for the song “Lemon Pound Cake,” which he wrote about the raid.

Officers tore down his door, he said, and damaged his house, taking money, vape pens and a small amount of marijuana. There was a discrepancy about the amount of money taken and returned to the rapper, which seemed to be a point of contention linked to whether he was misrepresenting what the deputies did during the raid.

“After they left, I had the right to kick the can and to do what I had to do to repair the damage they brought to my house. Yes, I did,” Foreman said. “I have freedom of speech. I’m a rapper. I entertain.”

His testimony came on the second day of the trial, after the deputies took the stand the first day and testified that though the raid wasn’t perfect, Foreman had been spreading lies about them for years since it occurred. Deputy Lisa Phillips, whose gender identity had been called into question in Foreman’s videos and social media posts, cried on the stand as some of those videos were played for the court.

Footage with a song called “Licc’em Low Lisa” showed Foreman saying he thought he would “crack some musical jokes” in the wake of the raid, then going to comfort a crying actor who resembled Phillips. “I didn’t know they hurt you that bad. … I was just having fun with a bad situation.” The same video showed the actor engaging in sexual activity with another woman.

In their lawsuit, WCPO said, the deputies said the posts and videos caused them “humiliation, ridicule, mental distress, embarrassment and loss of reputation” and made it difficult to do their law enforcement work.

In an amicus brief, however, the ACLU argued that the deputies’ lawsuit was a “classic entry into the SLAPP suit genre,” referring to a type of lawsuit that seeks to discourage criticism of public officials.

IF you want a cheaper alternative theme park in Europe, then there’s one letting kids go free until summer.

Parc Astérix is a theme park in Plailly, France, based on the famous comic book series.

The theme park has over 50 attractions across six themed worlds like the Roman Empire, Greece and the Vikings.

And until May 7, the park is offering free admission to children under 12 years old.

The offer is valid from Monday to Friday for online bookings and must be booked with a dated adult ticket.

Tickets for children usually cost €53 (£45.81) each, so for a family of four it would be a saving of €106 (£91.62).

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Adult tickets cost €56 (£48.40) each, when booked seven days in advance.

The park is open from 10am to 7pm each day, so it includes nine hours of fun.

But save your visit until next month if you want to see the new reinvented Egypt zone, which opens on April 4.

The zone is themed around Cleopatra and the Egyptian gods, with visitors able to immerse themselves in an Egyptian world.

The former Oxygénarium water raft ride has become The Descent of the Nile, with new theming to seem like you are cruising down the River Nile.

The Flying Chairs ride has now become The Flight of Ibis, where visitors swoop over the water garden, 10metres above the ground.

The ride also features water jets, greenery and themed decor.

The Egyptian zone is also home to the new dining experience, Les Fastes du Nil, which is a fast-food restaurant.

A new buffet restaurant called Épidemaïs’ Counter, with a range of Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, which will also open in June.

And launching this spring, there will be a new show called Cleopatra’s Gift – where she and her courtesans bring the OzIris esplanade to life with dance, music and guests interactions.

The refreshed zone is just part of Parc Astérix’ £218million makeover, due to be completed by 2030.

In 2028, the park will open a new British-themed land called Londinium.

In the land there will be an immersive roller coaster, an interactive family dark ride, a vertical playground, a pub and shops.

The park will open its fourth hotel as well, called The Odyssée Hotel which will feature 300 rooms and open in 2027.

There are currently three hotels at the park including Les Quais de Lutèce with 150 rooms in Gaul-inspired buildings.

There’s then La Cité Suspendue, which is Celtic-themed and made up of three ‘hamlets’ – potters, artists and druids.

And finally, the Les Trois Hiboux hotel is located in the forest.

Guests staying in the hotels get exclusive access to the attractions 30 minutes before they open to the public.

Also in 2027, the park will open a renovated Greek zone with two new family attractions, a playground and a restaurant.

The theme park is just 21 miles from Paris and whilst it is smaller than Disneyland Paris, it is cheaper to visit with Disneyland Paris tickets for this month costing from £80 per person.

Previous guests have raved about it too, with one writing: “I say it from the start: better than Disneyland!”

Another said: “We were counting and we did 35 rides each every day. If you are a theme park junkie then I would recommend it wholeheartedly.”

A third commented: “This park was a real discovery for me and my grown-up children who have been used to Disneyland for years.

“A warm atmosphere, sets worthy of movie studios, varied shows of high quality and attentive staff.”

In other theme park news, there’s a futuristic theme park just two hours from the UK that has been named one of the best in Europe – with an ‘Avatar-like’ waterpark.

Plus, an English seaside theme park has scrapped its entry fees and is opening a huge new ‘showstopper ride’.

SACRAMENTO — Heartbreaking loss.

That’s the only way to describe what San Juan Hills players, coaches and fans were feeling on Saturday at Golden 1 Center when Alex Osterloh made two of three free throws with 0.3 seconds left to give Atherton Sacred Heart Prep a 47-45 victory in the Division IV state boys’ basketball championship game.

Osterloh was fouled at the top of the key by Kellen Owens with the scored tied.

“I’m pretty sure I was fouled,” Osterloh said.

San Juan Hills had earlier lost the ball on a turnover, its 19th of the game, surrendering its chance to take the lead.

“It was a tough ending,” San Juan Hills coach Jason Efstathiou said. “We turned over the ball too much. Nineteen is insane. Ultimately we didn’t do a good enough job handling pressure.”

San Juan Hills (22-14) came back from a 12-point deficit in the second quarter to take a four-point lead in the fourth quarter.

Garrett Brehmer finished with 17 points while Rocco Jensen had 10 points and eight rebounds for San Juan Hills. Osterloh scored 15 points and Pat Bala had 13.

“There’s a little distaste,” Efstathiou said, “but at the same time we got to be here.”

AS SPRING emerges, your Instagram feed will soon look like a sea of pink as people head off to find cherry trees blossoming – and the UK has some great free spots to see them.

Known as ‘hanami’, the tradition of seeing cherry blossoms is a centuries-old Japanese custom.

Taking place in the spring, the tradition celebrates the blossoms which symbolise new beginnings, mortality and the beauty of life.

While the UK doesn’t have anywhere near as many blossom trees as Japan does, there are several locations across the UK where you can catch them blooming for free – here’s some of the best.

Battersea Park, London

In South West London, head to Battersea Park and you will find a long run of cherry blossom trees on Cherry Tree Avenue.

If heading to the park, make sure to enjoy a wander next to the River Thames whilst seeing the 40 blossom trees.

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The trees are the pale pink Yoshino variety that are usually found on the hills of Nara – they grow to about 3.6 to 4.2metres tall.

The park is also home to a Peace Pagoda which you can see, as well as a couple of popular cafes.

Keele University

Keele University campus is open year round to visitors, with free parking at the weekends.

Cherry blossoms are scattered across the campus, but you can download a map of where they are from the university’s website.

Flowering cherry trees have been at the university since the 1940s and in total, there are around 300 trees of 240 species and varieties.

This makes it one of the largest blossom collections in Europe.

Cathays Park, Wales

In Cardiff, head to Cathays Park and find the Welsh National War Memorial in Alexandra Gardens.

Here you will find flourishing cherry blossom trees that usually bloom in late March to early April.

The trees surround the war memorial and are pink and white blossoms.

There are also some other flower beds, with tulips, to see.

To make the most of your time in the park, there are several benches nearby ideal for enjoying coffee whilst seeing the blossoms.

Greenwich Park, London

Greenwich Park is a lovely day out anytime of the year, with the Observatory and the Planetarium.

But during the spring months, near the Ranger’s House and Rose Garden, you will find a path of cherry trees.

There are even benches underneath the trees so you can sit and enjoy them.

The Stray, Harrogate

In Harrogate, make sure to visit the Stray – 200 acres of parkland near the town centre.

Long lines of pink cherry blossom bloom in late March to early April, often with daffodils underneath them.

Around 200 cherry trees were planted back in 1953 in the park to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

People even have wedding celebrations under the blossom…

Windsor Great Park

In Windsor, head to The Savill and Valley Gardens to see a collection of Japanese cherry trees.

The gardens sprawl over 250 acres and you will also be able to spot magnolia trees in full bloom.

Whilst in Windsor Great Park, make sure to stroll past the Heather Gardens as well.

St Paul’s Cathedral, London

Working in the city? Well, during your lunch break head down to St Paul’s Cathedral, where you will see a number of cherry trees.

They are scattered throughout the churchyard and make the ideal scenic foreground for a shot of the iconic London landmark.

If you haven’t visited St Paul’s before, you could tie in seeing the blossom with a day trip to the cathedral.

Sun Travel Reporter recently visited and has shared a full rundown of what it is like.

The Meadows, Scotland

The Meadows is a large public park south of Edinburgh‘s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.

The park is even protected by an Act of Parliament, that was created in 1827.

During the spring, there are avenues of cherry trees.

They are known to bloom a little later than other places, usually starting to bloom in April.

Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline

Up in Dunfermline, Scotland, head to Pittencrieff Park and walk along the path near the main entrance to enjoy a row of cherry trees that line the path.

The cherry trees usually blossom here in late April and whilst you are exploring the park, make sure to look out for its resident peacocks and the Andrew Carnegie statue.

Nearby, you can also visit Dunfermline Abbey and Palace.

Castle Park, Bristol

Castle Park in Bristol is an open space between the city’s Shopping Quarter and the Floating Harbour.

In addition to ruins in the park, visitors will be able to find different cherry trees.

One spot is the cherry avenue, with 21 trees.

And the other spot is a singular, white Japanese Cherry Tree that was planted in 2014 to mark the 70th anniversary of Hiroshima.

This type of cherry tree had actually died out completely in Japan, but was saved when a single specimen of the tree was found in England in 1923.

For more things to do this spring, here’s a huge list of 100 free family days out in the UK – from concerts to kids festivals.

Plus, free things to do across the UK this month including huge parades, story festivals and rugby screenings.

WARMER weather is on the horizon, so why wait until summer to visit your favourite holiday hot spots?

Spain is still top of Brits’ holiday lists and the coming months are a great time to visit this beautiful country, with mild temperatures just right for exploring when it’s not too crowded.

Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of springtime destinations in Spain and its islands with tips from experts who know the area.

THIS northern port city may not attract as many fly-and-flop holidaymakers as the southern costas, but its coastlines are no less beautiful.

Temperatures can reach the low 20Cs during spring in Bilbao, so Sara Di Lenardo, Destination Manager at British Airways Holidays, recommends hitting the shores.

She says: “There are several wild beaches in the Basque Country. The rocky shores are dramatic and incredibly photogenic.

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“Walk along stunning coastal paths with the Pyrenees as the backdrop — they might possibly still have snowy peaks in spring.”

The month of May is a great time to visit for music fans, thanks to several big concerts and events.

Sara advises to keep your eyes peeled for the Trikitixa, a traditional basque instrument that’s a bit like an accordion.

STAY: Two nights’ room-only at the 5H Melia Bilbao is from £349pp including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Price includes 10 per cent discount. Book by March 31.

See britishairways.com/content/holidays/spain/bilbao.

THE White Isle only starts awakening for its big party season in spring, after a slow winter hibernation — and for travel expert David Mason, this is one of the best times to visit the party isle.

He reveals: “You have all the optimism of a new season commencing, cheap accommodation and flights, plus lots of local food festivals.”

Throughout this month, up until early April, you’ll be able to experience the Pintxa Run food festival in San Antonio, close to the ocean, David says.

Every Thursday throughout the month, dozens of small bars and restaurants dish up tapas and a drink for just three euros with everything from steakhouses to pizzerias participating.

David adds: “The festival includes a free novelty train that takes you from stop to stop — perfect if you’ve had a few too many cervezas on the route.”

STAY: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Invisa Figueral Resort Hotel Cala Blanca is from £562pp including flights from Manchester on April 7.

See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

IF you’re a foodie, San Sebastian won’t disappoint.

Sara di Lenardo says this is the top place to sample pintxos in the traditional way (small bites served on a mini slice of bread).

Wash it down with a local beverage for a truly authentic experience.

Sara adds: “Spring is cider season. Try the local drink txakoli — it can be found in most bars in town, but if you have time, make sure to visit Getaria where it’s produced.”

For those seeking seaside relaxation, Sara recommends La Concha, a horseshoe-shaped beach right in the city, offering gorgeous views of the blue Med.

STAY: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Bancal Hotel & Spa is from £599pp including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Book by March 31.

See britishairways.com/tenerife.

THIS vibrant student city, which sits a little south of Alicante, is fascinating for history lovers, with its 14th-century cathedral taking pride of place in the city centre.

Tom Wilkinson, product manager at Explore Worldwide, says: “This lesser-known southern gem enjoys 320 days of sunshine each year, with mild winters and a semi-arid climate.”

The sights are best explored on two wheels, says Tom — on a cycle tour you’ll pass through white-washed villages and historic Moorish towns, pausing to watch the sun set.

Fruit and veg are at the forefront of cuisine here and you can expect rich stews as well as freshly baked cakes.

Try Keki, not far from the cathedral, which serves up a Murcian cheesecake to die for.

STAY: A seven-day Cycle Southern Spain tour costs from £970pp including six breakfasts, all accommodation, cycle gear and flights from selected airports on May 10.

See explore.co.uk.

HOLIDAYMAKERS jetting off to Menorca in spring can expect rugged landscapes backed by chalky white cliffs and sandy bays overlooking vibrant blue seas.

“The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, offering Caribbean-style scenes without the time difference,” says Kate Bigger, destination manager at British Airways Holidays.

She suggests strolling the impressive Cami de Cavalls, adding: “This is a walk that goes through the length of the island, with spring being the perfect time to do this.”

Vineyards are scattered across the island and many of them invite visitors to meander among the vines, sampling wines as part of a tasting lunch or dinner.

STAY: Seven nights’ B&B at the 5H Melia Cala Galdana is from £1,099pp (includes €28pp tourism tax, payable locally) including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Book by March 31.

See britishairways.com/menorca.

NFL free agency is here!

Well, kind of.

The league’s so-called legal tampering period begins Monday at 9 a.m. PT, when teams are allowed to start negotiating with the agents for players who are about to become unrestricted free agents. No contracts can actually be signed, however, until the the start of the new NFL league year, which is Wednesday at 1 p.m. PT.

So, basically, fans will start finding out what moves their teams make and where various players will land starting Monday morning.

Hours before the legal tampering period started, the Miami Dolphins announced they will release longtime quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The 2023 All Star will count $99 million against the Dolphins’ salary cap, the biggest dead cap hit in NFL history. The money can be split over the next two seasons if Tagovailoa is designated a post-June 1 release.

In six years with the Dolphins, Tagovailoa went 44-32 as a starter, completing 68% of his passes for 18,166 yards with 120 touchdowns and 59 interceptions. He made the Pro Bowl in 2023.

“Wearing this jersey and representing this city has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” Tagovailoa wrote Monday on Instagram, adding: “I also carry deep regret that I couldn’t get the job done and bring a championship home to this city. Miami deserves that, and I’ll always wish I could have delivered it for you.”

Who are some of the other big names in the free agency market? As far as quarterbacks are concerned, Green Bay Packers backup Malik Willis could be a hot commodity. Daniel Jones is a free agent after a strong season with Indianapolis, although the Colts placed the transition tag on him and can match any offer.

Veteran quarterback Kyler Murray was informed by the Arizona Cardinals last week that they will be letting him go at the start of the new league year. The Atlanta Falcons have made a similar announcement regarding Kirk Cousins. Other available veteran quarterbacks include Aaron Rodgers, Joe Flacco, Russell Wilson and Marcus Mariota.

Teams in need of a running back might be interested in the services of Kenneth Walker III, who will be a free agent just weeks after he was named Super Bowl LX MVP as a member of the Seattle Seahawks. Travis Etienne of the Jacksonville Jaguars could also find a new home.

This also seems to be a big year for free agent edge rushers (including Trey Hendrickson, Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh, K’Lavon Chaisson and Boye Mafe) and wide receivers (including Alec Pierce, Mike Evans, Romeo Doubs, Rashid Shaheed and Jauan Jennings).

Check back here for updates as teams begin making moves.

SACRAMENTO — One unique perk California kids enjoyed for generations was tuition-free college. Now, a candidate for governor promises to bring that back. And bravo for her.

The candidate, former congresswoman Katie Porter of Orange County, even suggests a way to pay for her bold pledge. That’s unusual for a politician. It’s normal to promise the moon without specifying how to get there.

She‘d raise the corporate income tax a notch.

OK, it’s very unlikely to ever happen.

The powerful business lobby would scream, even though California companies would benefit from a more educated workforce.

And California’s public universities would probably cry about their revenue streams having to rely on unpredictable corporate profits rather than the pocketbooks of students’ parents.

But at least there’s a potential governor who’s advocating tuition-free higher education and proclaiming it to be a priority.

Why is this Democrat, a UC Irvine law professor, pushing the issue? Tuition cost doesn’t show up anywhere on voter lists of important concerns. But California’s high cost of living is a gigantic gripe. And “affordability” these days is one of the most overused words in any politician’s vocabulary.

“When we talk about affordability, there’s lots of talk about the problem, but people want to hear what [candidates] would do about it,” Porter told me over coffee last week. One thing she’d do is eliminate much of the tuition at public universities.

Another reason for making college tuition-free again, she said, is that “it was a promise made to the people” by the California Master Plan for Higher Education.

But that was 66 years and nine governors ago. A lot has changed.

Actually, tuition-free public higher education was a California birthright long before Gov. Pat Brown’s master plan.

Policymakers regarded tuition-free college as a sound economic investment. It was in the state’s self-interest to produce highly educated innovators and skilled professionals to grow the economy. The middle class expanded, with people landing good-paying jobs that resulted in higher tax revenue for state coffers.

That didn’t mean college was free — and it wouldn’t be under Porter’s plan. There’s still housing, meals, books and annoying fees.

But Sacramento switched priorities in the 1970s, spending tax money on other things: enhanced welfare, healthcare and specifically K-12 schooling.

Free tuition existed before the creation of Medi-Cal healthcare, which now eats up 20% of the state general fund. It also was prior to Proposition 13 in 1978 that dramatically cut property tax revenue for K-12 schools. The state felt obliged to make up the difference.

Naysayers contend California can’t possibly afford to educate students today without their paying tuition. Nonsense. The state could happily afford it long before we expanded into the world’s fourth largest economy. It’s about priorities.

And today, free tuition could be the PR tonic California needs to brighten its faded image across America. It could attract middle-class families to California and keep those already here from fleeing.

Porter promised a return to yesteryear in a speech that was a far cry from old-time political rhetoric. Addressing more than 2,000 delegates at a recent Democratic state convention in San Francisco, she held up a whiteboard with two words in large letters: “F— Trump.”

And she led the delegates in shouting “F— Trump.”

That was a bit of a turnoff for this old traditionalist, who thinks politics has gotten too coarse and foul-mouthed.

I asked Porter what prompted the profanity and whether she had any regrets.

No, she answered. Candidates were allotted only four minutes to speak and “I was economical with my time.

“I wanted to be very clear in the first 15 seconds that I would fight Trump. I wanted the other three minutes and 45 seconds to be about all other stuff.

“Some people just want to talk about Trump because they don’t want to talk about our own problems.”

Plowing into her speech, she quickly promised to “deliver single-payer healthcare, less-expensive housing, free childcare for all, zero tuition at our UCs and CSUs, and [elimination of] income tax for those earning less than $100,000.

“Those are real affordability solutions.”

Right. But no specifics. How does a state wading in red ink afford all that?

I pressed her when we met later. She didn’t have time for details at the convention, she said. But this is her plan on tuition:

Free tuition only for California residents who are undergrads. And only in their third and fourth years at the University of California and California State University. If they desired free tuition in their first two years, they could attend community college.

Many community colleges already waive course fees for full-time, first-time students. Kids are better educated in their first two years at community college anyway, the UC professor said.

Many liberals complain that free tuition would waste tax money on rich kids who don’t need it.

“I’m a believer in universal programs” that don’t base eligibility on income, Porter said. “Something I learned in Congress. You know what never gets cut? Universal programs such as Social Security and Medicare.”

Anyway, she added, “Kids from really wealthy families go to Harvard or USC or other options.”

Public school tuitions are bargains in California compared to other states and private universities.

At UC, annual tuition is roughly $14,900 and at CSU it’s around $6,500. Without tuition, UC would lose roughly $5.9 billion and CSU $3.7 billion, state budget officials say.

But under Porter’s plan, the universities would lose much less. They’d still collect tuition from freshmen and sophomores and hefty levies from non-Californians. Also student aid could be cut back if kids weren’t saddled with tuition.

Hiking the corporation tax from 8.84% to 9.5% “would generate way more than I need for tuition-free,” Porter said. “I would use any extra money for free childcare.”

Political promises often aren’t worth a nickel. But tenacious and feisty Porter’s free tuition pledge might be worth at least a few bucks. And, maybe some votes.

What else you should be reading

The must-read: Veteran Rep. Darrell Issa decides not to seek reelection in new Democratic-leaning district.
Internal combustion: Anxiety grows among California Democrats as gubernatorial candidates rebuff calls to drop out.
The L.A. Times Special: Yes, Republicans have a chance in California governor’s race. Here’s our expert analysis.

Until next week,
George Skelton

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The Island Bakery in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is hiring two production staff members, with the job offering a two-bed flat and a salary of £22,000-£24,000

Anyone seeking a remote relocation with some baking know-how might find their dream opportunity on a stunning Scottish island. The Island Bakery in Tobermory, situated on the wild Isle of Mull, is recruiting two production staff members – and the position includes a two-bedroom property.

The bakery has built quite a reputation, stocking its renowned biscuits through several upmarket stores, including Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. According to the job advert, the salary ranges from £22,000-£24,000, with minimal experience necessary, making it ideal for anyone wanting to swap hectic urban living for a more peaceful existence – so it could be time to refresh that CV.

Two shift patterns are available: 2pm to midnight, Monday to Thursday, or 6am to 2pm, Monday to Friday.

The posting has gained traction online because it includes a two-person flat, as job vacancies offering accommodation on the Isle of Mull are relatively uncommon.

The bakery has made clear it will favour candidates prepared to share the flat, given the accommodation is suited for two occupants. Those with a partner or mate also keen to move may stand a stronger chance of securing the role.

Both the bakery and accommodation are based in Tobermory, which has been recognised as one of the ‘most colourful places in the world. ‘

With a population of merely 900 residents, Tobermory is genuinely isolated, with the journey from Glasgow typically requiring a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Oban, followed by a 45-minute ferry crossing to Craignure and then an additional 35-minute drive to reach the village.

Lonely Planet highlighted its “cinematic scenery” and “distinct wildlife,” acknowledging that whilst it may lack Mediterranean sunshine, the village still boasts stunning landscapes and exceptional seafood.

The island’s remarkable wildlife includes golden and white-tailed eagles, minke whales, and basking sharks, all of which you might spot frequently if you choose to relocate to this beautiful village.

To apply for this job, visit the listing at hijobs.net.

WE’VE scoured the internet to find some of the best things to do over the Easter holidays for all ages – and the best part is, they all cost less than £10.

From Easter garden parties with furry friends to Gruffalo and Stick Man woodland trails, here are our top things to do as a family for under a tenner.

£10 and under

BBC Horrible Science: Cosmic Chaos exhibition at the Science and Industry Museum, Manchester

Visit Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum for a new exhibition guided by the characters from BBC’S Horrible Science.

The hit children’s TV show is known for its unique experiments and fascinating facts that kids love – and this educational exhibition is just as wacky as the programme.

Follow an outer space adventure where you’ll see space toilets, travel through a wormhole and boogie on an alien disco planet.

Aimed at families with children aged 7+, you can even have a go at programming a space rover and analysing real pieces of moon rock.

The exhibition is open now until January 2027, and costs £10 per person with under 3s going free. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance.

Wild Tots club, nature workshops and Easter Eggstravaganza, Suffolk

Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve in Lowestoft, Suffolk is hosting a variety of nature-themed events for families this Easter.

The Wild Tots group allows children aged 18 months to 5 years to get creative with hands-on messy crafts and games in the woods, with a range of Easter-themed activities on offer.

The Wild Tots Easter Special takes place on 31 March, costing £7 per child which includes an Easter treat. Adults go free.

There’s also hands-on nature workshops for families during the holidays, including art workshops and drop-in wildflower seed bomb making, at £3 per child or £5 for two.

There’s also an Easter Eggstravaganza taking place on 9 April, where families can tour the nature reserve, build nests and take home some Easter crafts for £8 per child and £3 per adult.

Plus the Carlton Marshes nature reserve itself is well worth exploring in the holidays. Make the most of a sunny day out with the family, and set up a picnic overlooking the Suffolk and Norfolk border.

Check the website for a full list of upcoming events and workshops.

Mixed Reality Experience at The Natural History Museum

Step into the future at the Natural History Museum with their mind-blowing Visions of Nature AR experience.

This high-tech adventure uses mixed reality headsets to whisk you 100 years into the future. Here you can explore an inspiring world where nature has bounced back in the most spectacular way.

Suitable for children aged 10 and over, you’ll be taken through eight different ecosystems including rainforests and the Arctic Ocean.

Using the headsets, you’ll find amazing plants and animals that look so real you’ll want to reach out and touch them.

The experience is available daily with sessions between 10:15am and 4:45pm. Tickets cost £9.95 per person, and can be booked in advance online.

Curiosity Club at the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh is free to visit and packed with fascinating galleries and displays.

The hands-on Imagine and Adventure Planet galleries are perfect for kids, with interactive games and cosy reading corners.

Plus, Curiosity Club sessions at the museum are packed with games and activities that allow kids ages 7 to 11 to interact with the galleries in new ways.

Taking place in the museum’s Learning Centre, this club follows new themes each month, with the next theme Primates beginning on 28 March.

Curiosity club sessions cost £10 per child and must be booked online in advance.

Observatory tours and stargazing in Omagh, Northern Ireland

Shielded by the Sperrin Mountains of Northern Ireland, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory is protected from light pollution – meaning that the sky glistens with stars.

This attraction is a top choice for budding astronomers, or families wanting a unique nighttime experience.

Book onto a guided tour of the OM Exhibition to learn all about the local landscape and the history of the Sperrins, whilst making your way through holographic installations.

Tickets cost £6 per adult and £3.90 per child, with under 2s going free. Make sure to book your tour online in advance.

The Easter Garden party and detective trail at Holkham Estate, Norfolk

Head to Holkham Hall and Estate for an Easter extravaganza that will entertain the whole family, set in a beautiful walled garden.

The Easter Garden at Holkham event takes place from the 3 to 6 April, and will include magic shows, games, races, and plenty of chocolate to go around.

The event will also see different animal breeds visit each day for children to meet and greet, from cuddly guinea pigs, to spiky hedgehogs, to scaly bearded dragons.

Meanwhile, the detective-themed Easter trail is simple to follow with a trail sheet and egg boards dotted around Holkham Park.

Once you’ve got your thinking caps on, you’ll be looking for clues to help you crack the code in a family trail suitable for all ages.

The Easter Garden event costs £7 per ticket, with under 2s going free. Make sure to book online in advance.

The Easter detective trail is completely free and runs from 5 to 17 April.

£5 and under

National Trust Easter Trails, across the UK

Nearly 100 National Trust sites across the UK are hosting Easter-themed events and egg hunts during the holidays.

Most of these trails spread across UK sites cost £3.50 per child, but there are some free options too.

This includes an Easter Bunny Bootcamp held at Staunton Harold in Derbyshire, from 28 March to 12 April. The trail itself is free, and the estate does not charge for admission.

The outdoor trail features fun activity stations and fitness challenges to tackle as a family as you help the Easter Bunny find his missing carrots.

There’s also a unique Easter event taking place at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate in Bedfordshire.

Dunstable Downs will be taking part in the tradition of orange rolling, with 10 family racing stations made from tennis ball tracks. There will also be an Easter-themed trail and classic egg hunt to take part in.

The event takes place from 28 March to 10 April, with admission to the Downs free. The trail costs £3.50 and includes a trail sheet, bunny ears and chocolate egg, with options for children with dietary requirements available.

Check the full list of Easter events on the National Trust website to find a trail or egg hunt near you.

The Gruffalo Orienteering Trail, Exeter

Haldon Forest Park is the ultimate outdoor destination in Devon, with an abundance of cycling and walking trails as well as plenty of activities year-round.

Easter is the perfect time to explore the park, with spring sunshine and dry walking trails making a welcome change from the winter sludge.

Pick up a map and certificate for just £1.50 from the Info Pod, and set out on an exciting forest adventure with The Gruffalo Orienteering Trail.

This map will help you to find 12 sights hidden in the woods, and ends at the park’s play area where there’s a giant Gruffalo sculpture.

You can pick up your trail for £1.50 from 9:30am to 3:30pm during the Easter holidays.

Easter Spring Trail and Mini Mammoths club, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery

The School Holiday Adventure: Take on the Museum Trail will take over the Shrewsbury Museum this Easter.

In a free family trail suitable for ages 5+, you’ll be able to search for hidden treasures amongst displays and undertake a series of hands-on challenges.

As well as this trail, the museum offers a weekly Mini Mammoths workshop where children ages 2 to 4 can take part in songs, stories and even handle historical objects. There’s tea, coffee and snacks to enjoy, too.

The trail is completely free and takes place from 28 March to 11 April. The museum is free to enter and open from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Mini Mammoths takes place on Thursday mornings between 10:30am and 12pm. Tickets cost £6 for one adult with up to two children, working out at at £3 per person or less.

Egg hunt, Easter crafts and interactive storytelling sessions at Blakesley Hall, Birmingham

There’s a whole host of exciting events popping up across Birmingham museums for Easter 2026.

Between 1 and 3 and 8 and 10 April, you can take part in an Easter trail at the Tudor home Blakesley Hall.

Follow an Easter trail through the gardens of the historical hall to find all the hidden eggs and complete the challenge.

The egg hunt costs £3.50 per child and takes place from 11am to 3pm.

Other events taking place at Blakesley Hall include Craft Wednesdays: Easter Arts as well as Goldilocks and the Three Bears storytelling sessions.

The crafts on offer include Easter cards and bracelet making, which cost £3.50 per session. Book your slot in advance online.

The Goldilocks storytelling sessions are fully interactive, as children will learn the story while touring rooms of the house.

This includes seeing the kitchen where Goldilocks made her porridge, and taking a seat in the three bears’ chairs.

These storytelling activities do however break the £5 mark, at £5 per child and £8 per adult. The sessions take place on 2 and 9 April. Make sure to book online in advance.

Room on the Broom trail at Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire

Enjoy a spellbinding day out at Westonbirt Arboretum, where the classic kids’ book Room on the Broom is bought to life in a nature trail.

Little explorers can follow the mile-long trail, stopping to collect the special ingredients needed for the witch’s spell.

Don’t forget to grab a family photo with the witch and her animal friends on their brand new broom before you head home.

The trail pack costs £4 and includes colouring, stickers, a lanyard and a pop-out wand. Westonbirt Arboretum is open between 9am and 4:30pm daily.

Free

Amazing Aircraft Top Trumps Trail, IWM London

Take a family throwback to the days of collecting Top Trumps with this free trail at the Imperial War Museum, London.

Aviation and history fans young and old will love this interactive trail. Simply pick up a trail sheet and search for hidden aircraft dotted about the museum to add to your collection.

The Amazing Aircraft trail is open daily from 10am to 6pm, ending on 19 April.

There’s also a Story Seekers trail available on weekends, from 10am to 4pm, where you can learn all about historical heroes at sea.

The IWM London is free to enter and open daily from 10am to 6pm.

Big Beasts, Little Beasts trail at the Great North Museum, Hancock

The Big Beasts, Little Beasts trail is taking over the Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle upon Tyne, with family-friendly games dotted across the galleries.

To join the fun, just grab a free trail sheet at the welcome desk and follow the interactive activities throughout the museum. There’s even some great prizes to take home.

Plus, if you visit on Saturday, March 28, you can catch a free living history family day to celebrate the opening of new exhibition: Treasure: Hidden, Lost and Found.

The Big Beasts, Little Beasts trail runs until April 2. Entry to the Great North Museum, Hancock is free. The museum is open 10am to 5pm Monday to Friday, closing an hour earlier on weekends.

Tracks of Life Train Exhibition at Clitheroe Castle, Lancashire

Railway enthusiasts should head to Clitheroe Castle Museum for the Tracks of Life exhibition, a celebration of the legendary railway photographer Ken Roberts.

Alongside his famous railway shots, you’ll find model trains and fascinating artefacts that bring the history of trains to life.

While you’re there, don’t forget to explore the 12th-century castle ruins and 16 acres of parkland at Clitheroe Castle.

It’s perfect for a scenic picnic or a hunt for ancient coins, plus the grounds and keep are completely free to visit.

Plus, if you find anything interesting, there’s often Finds Liaison Officers on hand to help identify your treasures.

Clitheroe Castle Museum is open 12pm to 4pm from Friday to Tuesday, opening daily from 1 April.

Stick Man Trail, National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire

Fans of the book, film, or that catchy party song won’t want to miss the Stick Man trail hidden in the woods of Alrewas, Staffordshire.

This mile-long woodland path is packed with the familiar faces of classic characters in carved wooden sculptures throughout the trail.

To start your journey, just grab a free trail map from the National Memorial Arboretum welcome desk, and head into the woods to see who you can find.

The National Memorial Arboretum offers free admission and is open daily from 10am – 4pm.

Spring Family Fun Festival at the Southbank Centre, London

From April, the Southbank Centre in London will host an exciting Spring Family Fun festival.

The festival offers both free and paid events during the Easter holidays, with free events including family textiles workshops and free Wordplay songs, rhymes and dance workshops.

There’s also Simmer Down dancing sessions with live music and art workshops inspired by new exhibitions.

The Spring Family Fun festival takes place from April 1 to May 31. For dates and times of specific events, visit the festival website, where you can pre-book your activities.

The Box, Plymouth

The Box is a top-tier family attraction in Plymouth, offering everything from free museum trails and craft tables to fascinating art exhibitions.

You can dive into the current Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy exhibition, or pick up a family trail sheet to hunt for hidden treasures across the galleries.

For those with little ones, don’t miss the free storytelling sessions held every Friday morning for under-5s.

It’s the perfect way to spend a morning, followed by a quick visit to meet Mildred the Mammoth or a creative session at the drop-in craft tables.

The Box in Plymouth is open from 10am to 5pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

WE’VE officially entered the first month of spring after what feels like a long, cold and wet winter.

And now the sun is starting to come out again and the days stretch longer, you are probably willing to leave the house a little more often.

Well, luckily for those venturing outside, the beginning of spring also brings a lot of new free events across the UK.

This month there are some big dates in the calendar, including St Patrick’s Day, to look out for.

So without further ado, here are some of the top events you can head to this month without spending a penny.

World Book Day, various

World Book Day officially takes place on March 5, but up and down the country destinations are running events over the coming week.

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For example, in London, children aged between two and 15 that are dressed as a book character get a free 30-minute ride on the London Eye, from March 7 to 10.

And over at Battersea Power Station, there is A Station of Stories festival, which will be a year-long celebration.

As part of the event, this World Book Day weekend there will be a number of events.

Visitors can step into the world of Mr Men Little Miss through interactive activities including a treasure hunt, for example.

There will also be other free creative workshops across the weekend and the chance for kids to meet their favourite book characters.

If you are based in or near Manchester, then you can head off on the Manchester Literature Trail which explores multiple venues across the city and informs participants of Manchester’s literary history.

A map for the trail can be downloaded online.

St. Patrick’s Day, various

St Patrick’s Day falls on March 17 this year and across the week there will be events all over the country.

For example, you could head to the parade in Digbeth, where there will be floats, marching bands and of course, a lot of green.

The parade is taking place on March 15 on Digbeth High Street.

One of the world’s largest celebrations outside of Ireland will take place in London with a parade starting from Hyde Park Corner at 12pm on March 15.

There will be a free event at Trafalgar Square too, with live Irish music, dancing and food stalls.

In Manchester Irish Festival Parade, which is the biggest outside of London, there will be 30 floats and marching bands, and it will take place on March 15.

Earth Hour, London

For something a little different, head into central London on March 28.

For one hour, in the evening, London will switch off its lights for the World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour to raise awareness about the impacts of global warming.

Households can take part too, but it might be your only chance for a year to see the famous sights of London go dark.

Southend City Day

Southend City Day takes place on March 7 and celebrates Southend getting city status in 2022.

The event will involve a number of performances, workshops and family-friendly activities such as face painting and pig races…

For example, there will be a stage at the top of the high street which will host performances by local dancers and youth music groups.

Fancy seeing something sparkle? In the evening make sure to catch Disco City’s light installations that will stretch across Royal Square and Pier Piazza.

For classic car fans, make your way to City Beach where there will be a lineup of parked classic cars over 25 years old between 11am and 4:30pm.

River Race, London

On March 28, you can head down to the Thames to watch the River Race.

Now this isn’t the Oxford versus Cambridge race (that happens in April), but during this River Race you will see up to 400 teams of eight racing down the river.

Six Nations, various

The rugby isn’t quite over yet which means you still have time to catch a game with your friends.

Lots of pubs up and down the country show the matches on their TVs, or you could head somewhere like The Old Crown in Digbeth, which has large outdoor screens, a heated garden and live DJs.

If you are in the capital, make your way to Walthamstow’s Big Penny Social – which is supposedly the biggest beer hall in the UK spanning across 2,415sqm.

Entry is free, though you will need to pay for a tipple if you want one from one of the 20 taps of beer on offer…

For something a little more unusual, head to Battersea Barge, where each match is being shown on the lower deck via a large projector.

It is free to attend, though if you do pre-purchase a £1 ticket you can grab a free pint of Camden Hells on arrival.

National Lottery Open Week, various

Between March 7 and 15 – so spanning both this weekend and next – hundreds of attractions that you usually have to pay entrance to across the UK, are opening for free or less than the usual admission fee.

If you are based down in Cornwall, or perhaps visiting for Mother’s Day weekend, then head to the Eden Project which is slashing its entrance fee.

For free, you can explore the largest indoor rainforest in the world, measuring 3.9acres.

Or perhaps you’re a history fan? Well, then venture to one of the many English Heritage properties across the UK scrapping entrance fees for the week.

Examples of properties include Audley End House and Gardens and Eltham Palace.

Head to the National Lottery Open Week’s website and enter your postcode to see attractions and destinations near you.

St Piran’s Day Lantern Parade, Cornwall

Have you ever wanted to experience a moment like that scene in Tangled where they are on the lake watching hundreds of lanterns venture into the sky?

Then get down to Helston’s St Piran’s Day Lantern Parade on March 7.

The event begins at 5:30pm with live music at Helston Boating Lake and Coronation Park and then the lantern parade will begin at 6:30pm.

Members of the public including school groups show off their handcrafted lanterns, alongside installations by City of Lights.

On The Line: 100 Years of Solidarity and Strikes, Manchester

Launching this month at the People’s History Museum in Manchester is a new exhibition which takes visitors on a journey through a century of industrial relations.

The exhibition begins with the 1926 General Strike and then addresses key moments throughout the past century of communities facing poor working conditions.

It also delves into the impact strike action has on society and will start on March 21.

For more things to do this spring, here’s a huge list of 100 free family days out in the UK – from concerts to kids festivals.

Plus, the UK tech-free attractions that my kids prefer to theme parks – and spring is the best time to visit.

OVER the Mother’s Day weekend, you can head to some fantastic attractions across Britain for free – or as little as 25p.

Between March 7 and 15, National Lottery players can get free tickets, discounted tickets and special offers to hundreds of attractions across the UK.

All you need to do is show proof of purchasing a National Lottery ticket, scratchcard or Instant Win Game in store or online.

And what better way to spend Mother’s Day than exploring somewhere your mother has always wanted to – but without paying the usual fee.

So here are some of the best to add to your diary to visit next weekend.

The Brunel Museum, London

On March 14 and 15, you can head to the Brunel Museum for free and explore the world’s first underwater tunnel.

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The Thames Tunnel was built by Marc Brunel alongside his son Isambard Kingdom Brunel and hundreds of workers.

It was originally a pedestrian tunnel with lots of shops and entertainment, and then it was later converted into a train tunnel, which the Windrush Line now uses.

As part of your visit, you can head 40 feet underground into the Tunnel Shaft.

Tickets need to be booked in advance via the Museum’s website, using the code ‘LOTTERY26’.

English Heritage Bolsover Castle, Bolsover

Bolsover Castle was once an aristocratic retreat during the 17th century.

Inside, there are wall paintings and lavish interiors, and outside you can explore the Fountain Garden, which is designed around a statue of Venus and features lots of flowers.

If you have kids, there is a play area as well and a tearoom.

It’s not required to book in advance, but use the code ‘NLOPENWEEK26’ to gain free entry.

Free Family Swims at The Lenton Centre, Nottingham

Between 2:30pm and 3:30pm on Mother’s Day, families can go swimming at The Lenton Centre in Nottingham.

It’s a family swim session so you can master your swimming skills or splash and play.

As spaces are limited, booking in advance is recommended and you just need to bring your swimming gear and a towel.

Willow weaving with Oskars, Bridgewater

In Bridgwater, on Mother’s Day you can have a go at willow weaving with Oskars the Wanderer.

You’ll learn about the ancient craft, whilst also getting hands-on experience.

The workshop is ideal for beginners or even those with some willow weaving experience that want to learn new techniques.

And what’s better is that you get to take home your creation.

All materials and tools are included, and there are two sessions on Mother’s Day – one starting at 10am and another starting at 2pm.

The workshop will take place at Mingle Cafe Bridgewater and is for over 18s.

Abbotsford, The home of Sir Walter Scott, Melrose

Each day between March 7 and 15 from 12pm, you can head on a free tour of Abbotsford House, which was once home to Sir Walter Scott.

While you do have to pay for admission to Abbotsford, which is £16.20 per adult and gives you access to the house and gardens, the guided tour will be free when you present a National Lottery ticket.

English Heritage Housesteads Roman Fort & Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland

Housesteads is the most complete example of a Roman fort in Britain and can be found midway along Hadrian’s Wall.

The fort was built around AD 122, which is when work on Hadrian’s Wall began.

Over the decades, excavations have revealed major buildings, defences and even a settlement just outside the walls of the fort.

Visitors can see the fort as well as explore an immersive exhibition.

And you will even be able to see the oldest toilets in Britain!

You don’t need to book in advance but you can do online if you want to by using the code ‘NLOPENWEEK26’.

Historic Royal Palaces Hampton Court Palace, London

If you don’t mind celebrating Mother’s Day a day early, then you can head to Hampton Court Palace in London.

Whilst not free, you can get 50 per cent off tickets for up to two adults and four children.

You can explore Tudor kitchens, see amazing architecture and wander through 60 acres of gardens.

Booking online in advance is essential, and you will need to enter the code ‘LOTTERY50’ to benefit from the promotion.

Filmhouse, Edinburgh

Fancy doing something a little out of the ordinary? Well, you can go on a tour of the projection box at the Filmhouse in Edinburgh.

This unique opportunity allows visitors to see how real film projection works and explore the hidden areas of a film house.

Places are limited to 10 per tour and you’ll need to book your space via the Filmhouse website.

Eden Project, Cornwall

From March 7 to 15, you can get free entry to the Eden Project in Cornwall.

What says Mother’s Day more than flowers? Well, exploring thousands of them alongside other tropical plants.

The Eden Project is also home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest, so you can investigate plants from further afield.

You’ll need to book a free day entry ticket on the website, and then show your National Lottery ticket on arrival.

Witley Court and Gardens, Worcestershire

Perfect if you are spending Mother’s Day with children, Witley Court and Gardens boasts exciting woodland trails, sprawling gardens and a wilderness play area.

Witley Court once used to be a Victorian party palace, and inside the audio tour will bring the mansion’s party days to life.

To get free entry, simply show up with a National Lottery ticket or proof of a game.

For more inspiration on where you can visit across National Lottery Open Week, here are some more of the top attractions open across the country.

Plus, you can get a year’s free entry to 20 of UK’s top theme parks and attractions for less than the cost of one chocolate bar a week.

March 2 (UPI) — In a recent interview with journalists from several Korean media outlets, Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon, Chairman of the Global Peace Foundation and author of The Korean Dream, warned that Korea stands at a pivotal crossroads where the decisions made and actions taken will determine the fate of the Korean Peninsula and the future direction of the Korean people for generations to come. With Washington focused on numerous global crises and lacking a clear policy towards North Korea, he said, it is precisely now that the Korean people must assert themselves in support of a free and unified homeland.

The interview took place amid deepening inter-Korean tensions. At the end of 2023, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un formally abandoned the goal of unification which had existed since the formation of North Korea under his grandfather Kim Il Sung’s rule. He designated the two Koreas as “hostile states” and ordered revision of the DPRK constitution to remove reunification as a national objective.

Moon defined North Korea’s formal adoption of the “two hostile states” doctrine as a structural turning point, one that exposes the fragility of the Kim regime. He said the situation demands strategic clarity rather than reliance on past engagement models, and requires that a compelling alternative vision to be placed on the table before this window of opportunity closes.

Conciliatory approaches, he said, carry meaning only when both sides share the goal of unification. When one side formally abandons that goal and redefines the other as an enemy, the entire strategic framework must be fundamentally reconsidered. Clinging to outdated models, he warned, is not diplomacy – it is self-delusion.

At the core of the alternative he is presenting is the Korean Dream – a comprehensive national vision rooted in Korea’s civilizational heritage spanning five millennia and grounded in democratic governance, economic opportunity, and fundamental human rights and freedoms for all its citizens. Rather than reacting to Pyongyang’s provocations, Moon argues, South Korea must define the peninsula’s future on its own terms. He noted that the previous Korean administration had already accepted the Korean Dream framework in principle; during the 2023 Camp David Summit, the U.S. and Japan agreed to support South Korea in its pursuit of a free and unified Korea. Moon also called for a non-governmental advisory committee to replace the current Ministry of Unification to allow for institutional continuity in how South Korea’s administration relates to North Korea, noting that the ideological reversals with each consecutive administration have long undermined inter-Korean policy.

Central to the Korean Dream vision is Hongik Ingan – the founding Korean ethos, roughly translated as “to broadly benefit humanity.” Moon describes this as the spiritual and historical bedrock of Korean identity. He emphasized that it is not an abstract ideal but a living principle that has been passed from generation to generation as part of the Korean people’s heritage and infuses unification with a high-minded purpose. Koreans must rediscover this founding spirit, he said, and see themselves not as passive pawns of geopolitical forces but as active agents with a civilizational mission.

On economic concerns, Moon was direct. Unification is not a burden but an opportunity of historic scale, he said, particularly for Korea’s younger generation. A unified Korea would integrate the more than 25 million North Korean residents into a new domestic market, rebalance its export-dependent economy, and spur large-scale infrastructure development, industrial restructuring, and expanded regional influence.

Moon drew parallels of the potential economic transformation that unification could unleash to China’s wealthy coastal cities that burgeoned with its historic shift from a centrally planned to a market economy. For the Korean Peninsula, he continued, such changes could fuel what he called a second Miracle on the Han River. The generation that seizes this moment, he said, will not merely inherit a problem but will open a new chapter of flourishing for Korean civilization.

The decisive factor shaping the Peninsula’s future, Moon argued, is neither military posture nor diplomatic maneuvering – it is public consciousness. If South Korean youth come to see unification not as a financial burden inherited from their predecessors but as a civilizational mission rooted in Hongik Ingan, that shift in public imagination will become the most powerful engine for change on the Korean Peninsula.

He pointed to North Korea’s growing internal vulnerabilities as evidence that the window for shaping the arc of history is narrowing. Rising defection rates – including among senior officials- and the regime’s deepening economic fragility suggest that the structures sustaining Kim Jong Un’s control are under mounting pressure. Moon said Kim is likely reassessing his long-term strategic options as he observes the dramatic upheaval unfolding in Iran.

“The regime’s current two-state posture is not necessarily permanent,” Moon said. “What matters is whether the right alternative is on the table.” He urged the South Korean administration to adopt the Korean Dream vision and offered to support and advise the U.S. administration as it further develops its strategy and approach to the Koreas.

Rams safety Kam Curl (3) celebrates after intercepting a pass against the Chicago Bears in the divisional playoffs on Jan. 18.

(Jeff Roberson / Associated Press)

The Rams have not invested heavily at cornerback since 2019, when they traded two first-round draft picks for Jalen Ramsey. They have not drafted a cornerback since 2023, when they picked Tre Tomlinson in the sixth round.

Last season, the Rams thought their young and talented pass rush could compensate for their decision not to stand pat with the cornerbacks and safeties from the 2024 season.

That did not work out well.

Cobie Durant, a 2022 fourth-round draft pick, and Roger McCreary, a 2022 second-round pick by the Tennessee Titans who was acquired in a 2025 midseason trade, are free agents. So are Ahkello Witherspoon and Derion Kendrick.

The Rams have until May 1 to decide whether to exercise a fifth-year option on Emmanuel Forbes Jr. The Rams in 2024 signed the 2023 first-round pick after he was waived by the Washington Commanders. If the Rams exercise the option, Forbes would be guaranteed $12.6 million in 2027.

Safety Kam Curl is a free agent. But the Rams in January gave safety Quentin Lake a three-year extension that includes $25.7 million in guarantees, so it would be a surprise if the Rams are willing to pay a premium for Curl.

According to Pro Football Focus, Jamal Dean (Tampa Bay), Jaylen Watson (Kansas City) and Tariq Woolen (Seattle) are top free-agent cornerbacks. Top college prospects include Jermod McCoy (Tennessee), Mansoor Delane (Louisiana State), Brandon Cisse (South Carolina), according to the website.

Merlin’s annual pass offer ends this weekend where you can get a free annual pass if you book a £95 stay at the likes of Alton Towers, Legoland, Thorpe Park, Chessington and more

A deal where theme park fans can ‘stay for a night, play for a year’ at Merlin’s attractions across the UK ends this weekend.

Merlin Entertainment, whose attractions include Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Warwick Castle, LEGOLAND, and Chessington World of Adventures currently has a deal running where families who book an overnight stay on selected dates in March get a free Essential Merlin Annual Pass (MAP) for each guest, giving them 339 days of unlimited access to over 20 of its theme parks and attractions.

However, theme park fans will need to hurry as the bookings need to be completed by Sunday (March 1), so there are only a couple of days left to take advantage of the offer. Eligible stay dates include:

• LEGOLAND and Alton Towers – stays between March 14 and June 26
• Chessington – stays between March 20 and June 26
• Thorpe Park and Warwick Castle – stays between March 27 and June 26

When making a booking, simply look for a banner that says ‘Merlin Pass Included’ that indicates whether the stay is eligible for the offer. Facilities at each theme park resort vary, but many have themed accommodation, breakfast included in the price, plus two days of theme park entry included in a one-night stay. Alton Towers’ hotel guests enjoy access to a 9-hole golf course, while those staying at Chessington can enjoy access to its SEA Life Centre.

As soon as you book your stay, you’ll be emailled your Merlin Annual Passes and can start using them as soon as they are activated, even before your overnight break if you like. The Essentials tier pass offers 339 days of fun, and in addition to theme parks it includes attractions such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and The London Dungeon.

Passholders can also access SEA Life centres across the UK, Cadbury World, Shrek’s Adventure! London and LEGOLAND’s Discovery Centres, so it’s easy to fill up the calendar in the Easter holidays and May half term without needing to pay a penny extra on entry fees.

It’s worth checking Merlin’s exclusions calendar for dates when the Essentials pass cannot be used. Restricted dates include some bank holidays and Saturdays in August. However, no dates in July are restricted, and you can still use your pass freely on other days during the six week summer holidays.

So, how much could families save? It depends on which hotel stay you book and how much you use the pass. A family of four could book a night at the Warwick Castle Hotel on May 16 for £429 and get four free passes included. Buying Merlin Essential passes would usually cost £139 each at full price, adding up to £556 for four people, so this is already a cheaper option if you’ve been considering buying the passes anyway.

Day passes to Alton Towers, as an example, cost £32 online and as much as £68 if you buy on the gates, so if you plan just a handful of theme park visits, this offer could save you hundreds over the year.

Full list of attractions where Merlin’s annual pass can be used

• Alton Towers Resort
• Chessington World Of Adventures Resort
• LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort
• The London Eye
• Thorpe Park
• SEA LIFE London
• National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
• SEA LIFE Manchester
• SEA LIFE Blackpool
• SEA LIFE Brighton
• SEA LIFE Weymouth Adventure Park
• SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
• SEA LIFE Sanctuary Hunstanton
• SEA LIFE Scarborough
• SEA LIFE Loch Lomond
• Warwick Castle
• Madame Tussauds London
• Shrek’s Adventure! London
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Birmingham
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester
• The London Dungeon
• The York Dungeon
• The Edinburgh Dungeon
• Cadbury World

You can find out more at merlinannualpass.co.uk.

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The digital euro is facing fresh delays in the European Parliament after the file’s lead rapporteur, Spanish lawmaker Fernando Navarrete Rojas of the European People’s Party (EPP), formed a minority bloc with far-right groups — leaving shadow rapporteurs unable to secure a workable majority around the draft.

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The latest compromise text seen by Euronews would also narrow the project’s scope in a way that goes to the heart of the Commission’s plan.

Brussels proposed a digital form of cash that could be used both online and offline. Navarrete, by contrast, is pushing for an offline-only model.

As rapporteur, Navarrete is responsible for steering the legislative text and building agreement across political groups through negotiations with shadow rapporteurs — a process designed to produce a majority-backed position in Parliament.

The Parliament has already signalled broad support for a digital euro.

On 10 February, lawmakers adopted the European Central Bank’s annual report and backed two pro–digital euro amendments, with opposition mainly coming from some centrist and far-right MEPs.

The EPP itself is split on the file. The German delegation is strongly in favour, amid pressure from Berlin. In mid-February, Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil told journalists that those opposing the digital euro were harming Europe.

Two sources familiar with the talks told Euronews that amendments tabled by Navarrete in the latest compromise text are a non-starter for groups backing the Commission’s plan, pushing the file into a legislative deadlock.

Euronews contacted lead rapporteur Navarrete for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.

The impasse surfaced again at a meeting on Thursday, when lawmakers attempted to bridge differences after a heated discussion, claiming “the text is going nowhere”.

Another meeting is scheduled for 10 March, but sources expect a vote currently pencilled in for May to slip.

EU countries have already agreed their position in the Council. Without a Parliament mandate, the legislation cannot move to the next stage.

What is digital euro?

The digital euro has taken on new political weight as economic tensions between the EU and the US sharpen the debate over Europe’s reliance on American payment giants.

Visa and Mastercard, both US-based, underpin much of day-to-day card spending in Europe. ECB data for 2025 shows the two networks account for 61% of card payments in the EU and nearly all cross-border card payments.

The project would create an electronic form of cash issued by the European Central Bank, designed to sit alongside banknotes and the payments services offered by commercial banks.

Supporters argue it would give citizens direct access to digital “public” money — something that, for now, largely exists only in the form of cash.

Under the Commission’s proposal, users would have a digital wallet for both online and offline payments, with transactions designed so they are not trackable.

Critics say the latest compromise text in Parliament risks stripping out key parts of that vision.

“This first taste of a compromise from Mr. Navarrete sadly shines little light on any actual shift in his direction for the digital euro,” Laura Casonato, head of policy at Positive Money Europe, told Euronews.

Casonato said the draft does contain some welcome elements, including language recognising that the digital euro “should be a sovereign and secure digital means of payment that safeguard public access to central bank money” alongside clearer provisions on privacy and data security.

HALF-TERM may be over but it doesn’t mean the fun has to be as there are lots of free activities taking place across this week.

Whether you want to head out for a walk to make the most of the sunshine or are wanting to pick up a new artwork for your home, this week has a great range of indoor and outdoor activities.

Europe’s largest artist and designer fair, London

This weekend you can head to Europe’s largest artist and designer fair at Chelsea Town Hall in London.

The Parallax Art Fair features over 10,000 works of art and design, that are all marked 40 per cent off of their usual price for the weekend.

The fair will also be playing music and there’s even a cinema.

The BRITs Art Trail, Manchester

Until March 16, you can explore a citywide art trail in Manchester with 21 artists.

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The trail features wall murals, immersive window installations and billboards.

Visitors can explore the art and the city in the lead up to the BRIT Awards, with art in some of the city’s most loved spots.

Beryl Cook Sculpture Trail, Plymouth

In Plymouth, Devon, you can currently discover a series of life-sized Beryl Cook sculptures.

As if they have stepped straight out of the artist’s paintings, the sculptures celebrate humour and love for everyday life.

There are four sculptures to find before the end of July.

Wedding Showcase at Natural History Museum

Future brides and grooms can head to the Natural History Museum to catch the Wedding Showcase this weekend.

It starts at 7:30pm on Saturday and you will get to see what a wedding is like at the Natural History Museum.

There will be entertainment, dining experiences and even bridal styling.

You must book ahead of the event, but it is free to attend.

Viking Experience Day – Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle

On Friday, head to the Great North Museum in Newcastle to enjoy a day all about vikings.

Visitors will get to meet real-life Vikings as well as Viking experts.

For little ones, there will be storytelling sessions and riddles to solve as well as the opportunity to make your own rune stone to take away with you.

Fairy House Trail at Saltram House, Devon

At Saltram House in Devon, you can head on a fairy house trail until this Sunday.

Hidden around the garden of Saltram House you will find tiny fairy homes.

There are 10 in total to spot and as you discover them there are also some magical activities to participate in as well.

After Dark Festival, London

On February 26, make sure to head to UEL’s After Dark festival to see a number of outdoor performances and installations that have all been inspired by the four elements.

The festival takes place at the Docklands Campus and includes light, fire and circus performances such as illuminated acrobatics and a glowing parade.

It will run from 5pm to 8pm.

Bristol Light Festival

Bristol Light Festival will finish at the end of this week, so make sure to explore the trail before it disappears.

There are different installations across the city to check out including a cluster of illuminated hot air balloons.

There’s also a wider event programme with walkabout performers such as stilt-walkers and jugglers.

And for adults there are comedy shows and a night market as well.

Big Days Out: Underwater Worlds – Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Newcastle

From Wednesday February 25 to Friday February 27, between 10am and 6pm visitors can head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Newcastle for Underwater Worlds.

Visitors can explore the ocean by building underwater worlds and even having a dance at the Cereal Disco – where you can grab breakfast and have a boogie at the same time.

There will be a marine biologist on hand too for you to learn about marine life from.

Mini-museum hunt for 50 years of Aardman at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Love Wallace and Gromit? Then head to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery to go on a treasure hunt around the museum.

Lots of tiny creations from the animation studio Aardman have been hidden around the museum, which guests can look for.

You can grab a map which helps you tick off each treasure.

The treasure hunt is running until September.

Cardiff Music City, Wales

To celebrate St David’s Day, head to Cardiff Music City festival, which features free performances at a number of venues.

For example, you could head to Cardiff Market on Saturday and Sunday between 5pm and 10pm for street food, independent traders and performances by Radio Sudd.

Heritage Weekend at Lauderdale House and Waterlow Park, London

Over at Lauderdale House and Waterlow Park this weekend, you can experience the annual Highgate Heritage Weekend.

On Saturday, the Local Heritage Fair Day will be on with 20 local organisations and special talks throughout the afternoon.

Then Sunday is the family day, with activities for all ages.

If you are looking for UK staycation ideas, here are six of the best staycation deals across the UK from Cotswolds cottages to lakefront lodges.

Plus, here’s our 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

Part of award-winning filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr’s speech in which he says ‘Free Palestine’ was not aired.

The BBC is facing backlash for editing out a section of its coverage of the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) in which prize-winning filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr says, “Free Palestine”, even while a racial slur remained audible in the same programme.

Davies Jr, who was awarded outstanding debut by a British writer, director or producer for his film My Father’s Shadow, ended his acceptance speech on Sunday with words of solidarity to “those under occupation, dictatorship, persecution and those experiencing genocide”.

“To those watching at home, archive your loved ones, archive your stories yesterday, today and forever. For Nigeria, for London, Congo, Sudan, Free Palestine,” he said.

The remarks were absent when the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) aired the event on a two-hour delay, prompting accusations of censorship from some viewers and advocacy groups.

Rights group Amnesty International’s United Kingdom chapter described the move to cut the speech as “shameful”.

“Thank you Akinola Davies Jr for using your platform to speak out for the rights of migrants and people facing and fleeing from persecution and mass atrocities – from the Congo to Sudan to Palestine,” said Amnesty UK.

The controversy was further amplified after a racial slur was heard during a separate segment of the broadcast. The offensive language was shouted by someone in the audience while Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo read out an award for best visual effects.

The event’s host Alan Cumming had earlier informed the audience that one attendee was John Davidson, who advocates for people with Tourette syndrome, a motor disorder that sometimes causes quick repetitive movements or sounds, including inappropriate language.

The broadcaster apologised for not omitting the outburst when airing the event. It said it would remove it from the version of the broadcast available on its streaming service

“Some viewers may have heard strong and offensive language during the Bafta Film Awards,” said the BBC statement. “This arose from involuntary verbal tics associated with Tourette syndrome, and as explained during the ceremony it was not intentional.”

When contacted by Al Jazeera English, the broadcaster declined to comment further on its editorial decisions regarding the BAFTA Awards, including the removal of Akinola Davies Jr’s “Free Palestine” remarks.

The BBC has previously faced criticism for coverage related to Israel and Gaza.

In June last year, the BBC opted not to broadcast a documentary it commissioned about medical workers in Gaza due to what it described as “partiality” issues, a decision more than 100 of the broadcaster’s own journalists petitioned against.

The BBC was also previously accused of editing out pro-Palestinian displays during its coverage of the 2023 BAFTA Awards, including several appeals for a ceasefire in war-battered Gaza.