Walt Disney Co.’s ABC is forcefully resisting Federal Communications Commission efforts to soften the network’s programming, accusing the federal agency of an overreach that violates 1st Amendment freedoms.
Last week, the FCC took the unusual step of calling in the licenses of eight Disney-owned television stations for early review. The move — widely interpreted as an effort to chill the network’s speech — came a day after President Trump demanded that ABC fire late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel over a joke about First Lady Melania Trump.
The FCC separately has taken aim at ABC’s daytime discussion show, “The View,” which delves deeply into politics.
The FCC has questioned whether the show, which prominently features Trump critics Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar, could continue toclaim an exemption to rules that require broadcasters to provide equal time for opponents of political candidates.
In its filing this week with the FCC, Disney’s Houston television station raised the stakes in the dispute over “The View,” calling the commission’s actions “unprecedented” and “beyond the Commission’s authority.” The ABC station’s petition for a declaratory ruling said “The View,” has long qualified as a “bona fide” news interview program with freedom to conduct interviews of legally qualified political candidates.
“The Commission’s actions threaten to upend decades of settled law and practice and chill critical protected speech, both with respect to The View and more broadly,” the Houston station KTRK-TV said in the filing.
The network’s firm stance sets up a clash with the Trump administration, including the president’s hand-picked FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who has made no secret of his disdain for Kimmel and other ABC programming. Earlier this year, Carr announced that decades-old exemptions from the so-called “equal time rule” for news programs, including “The View,” were no longer valid.
ABC’s strenuous arguments mark a departure for the Disney-owned outlet.
In December 2024, a month after Trump was elected to a second term, the network quickly settled a lawsuit over statements made by news anchor George Stephanopoulos that Trump found offensive. ABC agreed to pay Trump $15 million to end his legal fight — sparking an outcry among free speech advocates, who accused the network of caving on a case it could have won.
“Some may dislike certain—or even most—of the viewpoints expressed on The View or similar shows,” the station said in its filing. “Such dislike, however, cannot justify using regulatory processes to restrict those views. The government does not get to decide ‘what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion.’”
The station noted that, while the FCC has questioned the exemption for “The View,” which dates back to 2002, the FCC hasn’t showed interest in regulating programs on other networks, “including the many voices — conservative and liberal — on broadcast radio.”
“The danger is that the government will simply decide which perspectives to regulate and which to leave undisturbed,” ABC said.
On April 28, Carr called for a review of Disney’s broadcast licenses two years before any of them were set to expire, citing the agency’s year-old inquiry into Disney’s diversity, equity and inclusion policies and whether they violated federal anti-discrimination rules.
The popular crime drama, featuring Kris Marshall returning to his Death in Paradise character DI Humphrey Goodman alongside Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd, debuted in 2023 and was an instant hit.
Audiences will be hoping the BBC will soon release more information on new episodes of Beyond Paradise, but in the meantime, crime drama fans are urged to watch Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, which can be streamed on Channel4.com.
The detective period drama follows the personal and professional life of Phryne Fisher (Essie Davis), a private detective operating in Melbourne, Australia, in the 1920s.
Not only is the wealthy, sharp-witted Fisher incredibly glamorous, but she also has the talent to solve cases that police can’t crack. She is often paired with Detective Inspector Jack Robinson (Nathan Page), and the duo uses each other’s expertise to investigate crimes.
However, Fisher remains haunted by the tragedy surrounding her younger sister, often wrestling with the question of whether she could have done more to prevent it. The first series aired on ABC in 2012 and was followed by two more, concluding in 2015
The show is inspired by Kerry Greenwood’s historical mystery novels, which brought the iconic Phryne Fisher to life. The series began with the 1989 novel Cocaine Blues and spanned 23 books.
The first series aired on ABC in 2012 and was followed by two more, concluding in 2015. Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries was followed up by a feature film, Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears, released in 2020.
The show is rated 8.2/10 on IMDB with one fan calling the show “another excellent offering”, adding “The story lines, characters, writing, acting, sets, period ambiance… whatever else… are all superb.”
Another explained: “Sultry and stunning period mystery series. As a lifelong mystery buff, I find “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries” to be a real treat.”
“Lots of fun, and looks gorgeous. I happened upon Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries quite by accident”, added another.
Who else stars in Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries? The cast of the crime drama includes:
Essie Davis as Phryne Fisher
Nathan Page as Detective Inspector Jack Robinson
Ashleigh Cummings as Dorothy ‘Dot’ Williams
Hugo Johnstone-Burt as Constable Hugh Collins
Richard Bligh as Mr. Tobias Butler
Travis McMahon as Bert Johnson
Anthony Sharpe as Cecil ‘Cec’ Yates
Tammy MacIntosh as Dr. Elizabeth ‘Mac’ Macmillan
Miriam Margolyes as Prudence Elizabeth Stanley
Ruby Rees-Wemyss as Jane Ross
Nicholas Bell as Murdoch Foyle
Pip Miller as The Baron of Richmond, Henry George Fisher
Beyond Paradise is available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries can be streamed on Channel 4.
Tehran on Monday responded to a U.S. military operation to guide commerical ships marooned in the Persian Gulf out via the Hormuz Strait by warning that any American forces that entered or approached the strait would be attacked. File photo by Stringer/EPA
May 4 (UPI) — The Iranian military threatened Monday to attack U.S. forces if they attempt to implement U.S. President Donald Trump‘s “Project Freedom” to bring ships trapped in the Persian Gulf out through the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement carried by state-run broadcaster IRIB, the commander of Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the Iranian military’s central command, warned the Americans not to approach the strait and that no vessels would be permitted to transit safely without Iran’s permission.
The statement also appeared to threaten Iran’s neighbors in the Gulf and other allies of the United States.
“Do not approach the Strait of Hormuz. Any foreign armed force, especially the aggressive American army, will be attacked if they intend to approach and enter the Strait of Hormuz. Supporters of the evil America should be careful and not do anything that will lead to irreparable regret, because America’s aggressive action to disrupt the current situation will have no result other than complicating the situation and jeopardizing the security of vessels in this area,” said central command chief, Maj. Gen. Ali Abdullahi.
“In any circumstances, any safe passage through this strait will be carried out in coordination with the Armed Forces,” added Abdullahi.
The warning came hours after Trump announced plans to use U.S. military assets deployed in the region, including guided-missile destroyers, over 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms and 15,000 marines, to “guide” ships and crews “safely out of the Strait.”
U.S. Central Command confirmed in a news release posted on X that the operation to restore freedom of navigation for all commercial shipping, with the exception of vessels servicing Iran, would get underway on Monday.
“The mission, directed by the president, will support merchant vessels seeking to freely transit through the essential international trade corridor. A quarter of the world’s oil trade at sea and significant volumes of fuel and fertilizer products are transported through the strait. Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain the naval blockade,” said U.S. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper.
The developments came as two ships, an oil tanker and a bulk carrier, were attacked near the strait on Sunday.
However, it was unclear how effective the operation might be with Copenhagen-headquartered BIMCO, the world’s largest international shipping association, with more than 2,000 members across 130 countries, telling the BBC that while much depended on the “risk appetite” of individual ship owners, it couldn’t see how an evacuation could work without agreement from Iran.
As many as 20,000 merchant sailors are languishing aboard 2,000 commercial ships marooned in the Persian Gulf by Iran’s effective closure of the Hormuz Strait, according to the U.N.’s International Maritime Organization, which Friday adopted a resolution condemning attacks on shipping that “threaten the welfare of seafarers, represented a grave danger to life and posed a serious risk to the marine environment.”
President Donald Trump signs a series of executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House on Thursday. Trump signed an order to expand workers’ access to retirement accounts. Trump also signed legislation ending a 75-day partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security after the House voted in favor of funding. Photo by Aaron Schwartz/UPI | License Photo
Tens of thousands of partygoers gathered for an illegal “free party” at a military firing range near Bourges, despite warnings about unexploded World War II ordnance. Authorities warned of serious risks, while organisers said the event was attended by 40,000 to protest against proposed laws targeting unregistered raves.
A FREE-to-visit wine festival is set to return to the UK this summer.
Battersea Power Station in London has confirmed The Wine Circuit will return from June 12 to 14 with everything from a markets to street food and bar pop ups.
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There’s a free wine festival in LondonCredit: Battersea Power Station
Wine Merchant Stalls at the festival will be open from 11am to 8pm on June 13 and between 11am and 6pm on June 14 and include popular brands such as Vagabond Wines.
There’s also an Artisan Market on June 12 and 13 between 10am and 8pm and again on June 14 between 11am and 6pm where you can shop handmade wine glass and wine-themed gifts.
Alternatively, you could buy a ticket to one of the panel talks at the festival, or The Wine Cup, where you can try different tasters of wine.
The Wine Cup allows visitors to enjoy up to 10 wines from around the world and then vote for the ‘Best in Show’, as well as ‘Highly Commended’.
Tickets are split into the different types of wine including red, white, rose and sparkling and range from £37.90 to £41.10 per person – and even includes a tote bag and cup.
Events already confirmed for this year include Drag Wine Tasting on June 13 between 7pm and 9pm.
While little details have been released about the wine festival this year, last year the festival hosted sessions about wine making, drinking trends and insider tips from experts.
There were also live music, talks on topics such as natural wine and alcohol-free wine, and for pub quiz lovers, even a wine quiz with blind tastings
As for the wine market, stalls sold wine-related gifts such as bottle stoppers and decanters while food pop-ups included Ashes BBQ and Masa Tacos.
The Power Station already has a number of wine destinations for visitors to explore including Vagabond Wines and Searcys Champagne Bar.
SHE went from a little known model to posing for Fendi almost overnight when she started dating Brooklyn Beckham.
Stunning Hana Cross, now 28, dated the nepo baby for just eight months but almost seven years on the Beckham family name still haunts her – and as insiders tell us she’s gained a reputation for being difficult to work with, the famous connection is doing more and more of the heavy lifting.
Hana Cross is trying to rid herself of brand Beckham after dating BrooklynCredit: InstagramHana and Brooklyn – pictured here in 2019 – had a very difficult relationshipCredit: BackGrid
An industry source explained: “Hana can be hard work behind the scenes, especially when things don’t go her way, and that’s started to follow her.
“Brands are becoming more hesitant, not because of one specific issue, but because of a general unpredictability around how things might be received with her.
“Brands have mentioned how difficult she is to work with. She’s a stunning girl with so much potential but there’s a sense some partnerships have cooled as companies weigh up whether the attention she brings is the right kind.
“There’s a growing feeling in the industry that a lot of the attention around her still ties back to her past with Brooklyn, whether she likes it or not.”
We’re told she recently hired a new press team to help restore her reputation and shed the family name once and for all.
It became apparent just how far off that dream was earlier this year as she found herself dragged into the Beckham family drama surrounding Brooklyn falling out with his parents.
Our source continued: “The recent Beckham drama has definitely rattled her more than she’s letting on, she’s trying to stay composed but it’s clearly unsettled things behind the scenes
“She’s more cautious than ever now, particularly when it comes to anything linked to that circle
“She’s brought in a new PR team in an attempt to reset the narrative and give herself a fresh angle. There’s a sense that without her Brooklyn ties, there’s not much cutting through in terms of her own identity.”
The Leeds-born model started dating the eldest of the Beckham brood, 27, back in 2018, but it was a tumultuous time, overshadowed by a series of very public rows.
Hana was thrown into the spotlight – compared to Brooklyn she’s had a very modest upbringing, living in Huddersfield and then Chipping Campden, where she attended the local state school.
From Leeds to LA
Born Hana Mahmood, her mum Sarah was working in a shop when she married Khalid Mahmood in November 1994.
When she was 18 she was scouted while out shopping with her mum in Cotswolds. She had been planning to go to university to study business with equine studies, but her career took off pretty quickly.
Hana has worked for everyone from high street brands Topshop and New Look to designers Valentino and Missoni.
She was 21 when she first met Brooklyn, who was 19 at the time. It’s thought that Brooklyn’s cousin Libby Adams introduced them and they soon became inseparable.
Brooklyn and Hana dated for eight months but she’s still associated with himCredit: Getty Images – GettyBrooklyn is now married to Nicola Peltz but is no longer speaking to his familyCredit: Getty
And not long after, another confrontation at the Agent Provocateur party, at Annabel’s members club in London in September 2019, left Hanna running to the bathroom in tears.
A fellow partygoer at the time told The Sun Online: “They were chatting together and it was very tense. By the end of it I could hear Brooklyn say, ‘it is what it is.’
“He walked off and she went back to her friends looking dejected, but she held it together while her pals comforted her”.
Brooklyn’s parents Victoria and David were said to be “seriously frustrated” by the negative attention the rows were creating and warned him to spend more time with the family.
Looking back at that time in a rare interview Hana admitted that dating the budding chef and being part of the famous family sparked her “anxiety” .
Hana has gained a reputation for being a bit difficult according to sourcesCredit: Instagram / hancrossHana was close to the Beckham family while she was with BrooklynCredit: Getty
She told Hello! Magazine: “My time with the family caused me a lot of anxiety, in all honesty.
“There were a lot of warning signs and things that happened during the relationship that, in hindsight, should have made me think and maybe end the relationship or walk away a lot sooner than it did”.
In recent months Brooklyn’s current relationship – his marriage to Nicola Peltz – has come under scrutiny due to his very public family feud.
Hana admitted: “It’s hard not to be mentally drawn back into that part of my life, especially with all this feud stuff coming out.
“It’s hard because I don’t look back on that as a fond time, on reflection.”
The couple finally called it quits in the summer of 2019, which was said to be a huge relief to Brooklyn’s parents. Little did they know Nicola Peltz was just around the corner.
Hana had a brief foray into music and released a track that seemed to hint at Brooklyn.
She sang: “I wish that someone told me you had a habit for dishonesty – though you break my heart, I want to stay.”
She went on to date Jude Law‘s son Rafferty, Jack Whitehall and Scott Disick. She’s now living in LA and was last linked to aristocrat Peregrine Pearson, following his split from Sophie Turner.
Our insider added: “It’s a bit of a catch 22 situation because she knows that without Brooklyn she wouldn’t be where she is now and it’s still the thing people are most interested about with her.
“But she’s determined to push forward and prove she can stand on her own.”
This Is Not A Murder Mystery follows a group of young Surrealist artists in the 1930s.
The Belgian English-language crime drama is now available to watch on Channel 4, after first airing last year.
Set in England in a lavish country estate, it sees a collection of famous artists finding themselves trapped with a serial killer.
The cast features Pierre Gervais as Rene Magritte, Inaki Mur as Salvador Dali, Florence Hall as Lee Miller, Frank Rourke as Man Ray and Mike Hoffman as Max Ernst.
The synopsis for This Is Not A Murder Mystery, taken from Magritte’s The Treachery of Images painting, reads: “Crime drama set in the flamboyant 1930s, following a group of young Surrealist artists, including Dali and Magritte, who are trapped in a lavish mansion with a serial killer on the loose.”
Viewers were left gripped by the unique period drama, with one person writing: “This series is a delightful and stylish twist on the classic whodunit. Set in the opulent 1930s with a gathering of legendary surrealist artists, it plays masterfully with suspense and visual flair.” They added: “For anyone looking for an intelligent drama wrapped in atmosphere and intrigue, this series is a must-watch.”
Another person branded it “worth watching” while someone else called it “charming”. When the trailer dropped, fans rushed to share their excitement, with one writing: “This looks *rilly* good, as another said: “This looks fun!”
Someone else said: “I’m so glad Agatha Christie-ish stories has taken ahold of media for now. It’s such a fun genre.”
Another added: “I’ve been itching for another story like this ever since Knives Out came out years ago! And I’m also really excited to see a cast where I don’t recognize anyone I’m sick of Hollywood only casting the same “trendy” actors in roles they’re ill-suited for so this is a nice chance to see other talent shine!”
Producer Kristoffel Mertens and Elly Vervloet previously spoke to Variety about turning their surrealist idea into this drama, with Mertens saying: “It started as the typical cliché idea that goes around in production companies.
“Everyone is very enthusiastic about it, but at the same time we would never be able to make it. Yet for this one, it remained with us and we kept going back to it, so in the end, we thought we could try to at least get it into development. And it turns out that “This is Not a Murder Mystery’ became one of the biggest shows ever made in Flanders.”
It’s definitely the biggest series we have ever done”, Vervloet added.
“We usually commission Flemish series for our local audience, creating a mix of domestic series and high-end TV shows as well.
“But at that level, it becomes a matter of dreaming big, being bold, and daring to make this choice as a public broadcaster to bring this English-spoken series to our audience and beyond.”
This Is Not A Murder Mystery is available to watch on Channel 4.
A POPULAR lido is set to offer all day sessions this weekend – where kids will be able to swim for free.
The Grade II listed venue also offers a number of adult-friendly swim sessions and an adventure course.
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The pool re-opened in 2015 following a multi-million pound renovationCredit: Ceri BreezeThe lido offers three pools, an outdoor play areas and an inflatable course on weekendsCredit: Ceri Breeze
The National Lido of Wales, in Pontypridd, is hosting all-day sessions from May 2 to 4, ahead of the pool’s official summer season on June 1.
Kids under 16 will be able to enjoy the lido for free all weekend, while adult entry is priced at just £4.
The pool currently offers weekday and weekend sessions from 6.30am until 8.45am for early-morning swimmers.
Family fun sessions are also hosted only on weekends and bank holidays until the start of June.
For an additional £3, visitors can purchase tickets for the inflatable obstacle course, Aqua Peddlerz and Water Walker, which includes floating zorbs – inflatable plastic balls that allow people to run on the water.
The area also contains an outdoor play section – a dedicated playpark with slides, seesaws, climbing and balancing equipment.
The historic venue, also known as Lido Ponty, has been nestled within Ynysangharad War Memorial Park since 1927.
Following its closure in 1991, the pool spent the intervening 24 years in a state of disrepair until its official re-opening in 2015.
Now it features a renovated main pool, an activity pool and a splash pool, which are all heated to 28 degrees.
The site is also considered the “earliest and best preserved lido” in South Wales.
Save on a holiday to Cefalù Bay in Italy, where the outdoor pool comes with spectacular viewsCredit: Club Med
IF you haven’t booked your summer holiday abroad yet, now’s the perfect time — you can bag yourself a HUGE bargain in this holiday sale.
Club Med has launched its massive Flash Summer Sale, where you can save up to a whopping £600 per person on all-inclusive summer holidays.
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Club Med has launched a massive Summer Flash Sale where you can save up to £600ppCredit: Club Med
Save up to £600 per person in the Club Med Summer Sale
Not only can you bag massive savings, but if you’re going away as a family, you’ll be glad to know that kids under 6 stay free!
These holiday deals include your accommodation, meals, drinks activities and kids clubs all packaged neatly into one price, with no hidden costs.
These are some seriously premium holidays for bargain prices, with modern resorts in trendy destinations, gourmet dining and childcare all taken care of.
There’s a range of sun-soaked destinations to choose from, including long haul and short haul options, with travel dates stretching until November 2026.
But make sure to act fast – the flash sale ends on May 13.
Here’s a selection of top all-inclusive holiday deals you can snap up in the Club Med Summer Flash Sale.
Marbella, Spain
You could save big on a holiday to Marbella with Club MedCredit: Club Med
One option is the Club Med Magna Marbella, a Spanish sunshine resort set in twelve acres of lush green gardens.
This hidden slice of luxury sits at the base of a beautiful mountain, overlooking the sea and just a stone’s throw from the historic Old Town and glitzy Marbella.
This resort has its own lagoon pool with a beach club feel, plus grown-ups can enjoy the adults-only Zen Zone pool and juice bar whilst children up to age 17 are in the kids club.
Da Balaia, The Algarve, Portugal
Da Balaia in The Algarve has gorgeous beaches and vibrant golfing greensCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Whether it’s a couple’s retreat or a family getaway, you can fill your days with relaxing spa treatments or thrilling activities like water sports, sailing and tennis.
For something truly memorable, go horse riding along the beach at sunset.
Marrakech, Morocco
Save on a stay at Club Med Marrakech in MoroccoCredit: Club Med
Club Med Marrakech is a luxurious Moroccan stay with colourful courtyards and relaxing gardens to wander, with the vibrant souks of the city close by.
Practice your swing at the driving range or get stuck into a good book by the palm tree-dotted poolside, plus there’s childcare for children ranging from infants to teens.
Tuck into tajine, grilled meats and mezze at the traditional restaurant, and enjoy a Moroccan mint tea or something stronger at the rooftop bar.
There’s plenty more holiday destinations to browse in the sale, such as luxurious all-inclusive resorts on the Turkish Riviera, quiet Greek islands and coastal retreats in France.
There’s even savings for dreamy long-haul destinations like Cancun, Mauritius, the Maldives and Seychelles.
Just make sure to act fast and bag your bargain break before the sale ends on May 13.
As an Australian living in Italy, I grew up within an hour of some of the most pristine coastline in the world, so the Italian penchant for private beach clubs is something I’ll never quite grow accustomed to.
Along some of Italy’s most naturally beautiful stretches of beach, from the Amalfi Coast to the Cinque Terre, private, exclusive beach clubs and five-star hotels occupy the best patches of shoreline. The natural beauty that made these places famous can feel increasingly roped off.
In Australia, beaches are natural places to be shared. There’s a more relaxed approach to bathing along open stretches of sand framed by nothing but trees, rocks and dunes. For those seeking a back-to-nature holiday, here are six of Italy’s most beautiful free beaches where the coastline remains untouched and open to all.
Riviera del Conero, Marche
The Riviera del Conero is the Marche’s most precious jewel, in a region still largely unchanged by mass tourism. You’ll rarely hear any language other than Italian as it’s all locals and other Italians on their summer holidays.
Set against a stunning backdrop of limestone cliffs covered in pine trees, a series of protected bays with clear green-blue water and white pebbles make up this stretch of coastline within the Conero regional park.
Sirolo is a long, natural beach at the end of a meandering downhill walk through the trees. There’s plenty of space to lay down your towel on the smooth rocks, with the option of paid chairs and umbrellas, too.
Portonovo Bay offers low-key retro 60s beach clubs and long stretches of free beach. Ristorante Emilia has been the standout lunch spot here since 1950, serving up their signature spaghetti with mussels prised by hand every morning from the nearby rocks. In Sirolo, San Michele Relais & Spahas doubles from €108, and Camping Village Internazionale has cabins from about €100
Gargano, Puglia
A cove on the Gargano peninsula. Photograph: Katie McKnoulty
While southern Puglia’s beaches are at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists, the rugged Gargano peninsula, which juts out from northern Puglia into the Adriatic, is far less known. Part of Gargano national park, it’s full of rocky coves, quiet bays and long pebbled beaches framed by olive groves.
Portogreco, a tiny cove and popular free beach, is framed by sea caves and rocks perfect for high diving, and offers fantastic snorkelling in the clear waters.
Vignanotica is a long, skinny pebble beach, backed by a sheer limestone cliff that mercifully shades the shoreline by late afternoon in summer.
Make the scenic trip an hour north along the coast for lunch at Al Trabucco da Mimìin Peschici for fresh seafood caught and served on a traditional wooden fishing platform. Order the mixed seafood grill to sample it all. HMO Glamping in Vignanoticahas tents from about €110, or Baia delle Zagare resort in Mattinata has doubles from €150
Ponza, Lazio
Some of Ponza’s best swimming spots are only accessible by boat. Photograph: Katie McKnoulty
A favourite summer escape for Romans, the island of Ponza sits a short ferry ride from mainland Lazio. Pastel houses cluster around a port town unchanged by time. The island opens up into wild coves and quiet swimming spots, the best ones accessible only by boat.
Frontone, the island’s longest beach, is reached by water taxi from Ponza. While some of the shoreline is occupied by beach clubs, there’s still plenty of free beach, and savvy locals know to perch on the rocks at the southern end.
Some of Ponza’s most spectacular swimming spots, such as Chiaia di Luna – a crescent-shaped cove surrounded by soaring orange cliffs – are accessible only from the water, so hiring a dinghy or a captained boat is part of the experience.
Take lunch at Ristoro da Gerardo, which has the best views over Frontone from its rustic raffia-shaded terrace. The homestyle menu offers aubergine parmigiana alongside Ponzese octopus stew, and dessert is figs picked onsite. Guests are invited to stay for a post-lunch nap on loungers shaded by trees. Hotel Chiaia di Luna has doubles from €115
Pantelleria, Sicily
There are no sandy beaches on the volcanic island of Pantelleria. Photograph: Katie McKnoulty
Closer to Tunisia than Sicily, this slow-paced island feels completely removed from mainland Italy and offers full immersion in the elements. Without a single sandy beach, visitors and locals lay down their towels on the flat volcanic rocks and dive into the clear blue water, amid arid, wind-battered landscapes.
Balata dei Turchi is a secluded bay of volcanic rock at the wilder southern end of the island that is ideal for snorkelling, with clean waters and submerged rocks teeming with bright coral and fish. Nearby at Nikà, underwater thermal springs bubble up out of the sea while you swim.
Laghetto delle Ondine lies at the end of a short hike across otherworldly volcanic terrain, where waves crash against the walls of calm rock pools the size of swimming pools.
At sunset, snag an outdoor table at Dispensa Pantesca in Scauri for an antipasto plate of local specialities, including Pantelleria’s aromatic capers. Or book a more formal dinner in the courtyard next door at sister restaurant La Nicchia. Stay in traditional dammusi (houses made from volcanic stone) at Pantelleria Dream Resort near Kamma from €170, or at Dammuso Biancolilla near Scauri from €140
Elba, Tuscany
The island of Elba has 90 miles of coastline. Photograph: Katie McKnoulty
Part of the Tuscan Archipelago, Elba lies 35 miles (55km) east of Corsica, with similarly clear waters and mountainous terrain. Still relatively under the radar outside Italy, the island has 90 miles of coastline, scattered with wild bays and tiny beaches. It’s larger than many visitors expect, so where you base yourself makes all the difference.
Nisporto is a quiet, unspoilt bay enclosed by pine-covered hills at the end of a winding road, giving it a secluded feel, even in summer. The flat sand-and-pebble beach and the gentle waves make it perfect for families with kids. The transparent waters and seabeds rich in marine life are great for snorkelling, or rent a pedalo or canoe to explore the coastline beyond.
In Portoferraio, book dinner at Teatro Bistro for the spectacular views from the terrace, and order the spaghetti with cured mullet bottarga, a Tuscan coastal delicacy. In Nisporto, Residence La Cota Quintahas apartments from about €80 a night (three-night minimum stay) or Sole e Mare camping village has bungalows from €400 a week for two
Maremma, Tuscany
An untouched beach near Grosseto. Photograph: Katie McKnoulty
Just outside the walled city of Grosseto, the regional park of Maremma stretches from the Uccellina mountains to the Tyrrhenian Sea, protecting one of Italy’s most untouched coastlines.
The park’s wild sandy beaches are completely devoid of umbrellas, bars and beach clubs, the only structures being improvised driftwood forts providing refuge from the sun.
Marina di Alberese is the most accessible beach inside the park, the shoreline stretching for miles. Traipse along the coast to quieter Collelungo, or reach it on foot or bike via trails within the lush park.
Easy cycle paths, with bikes and e-bikes readily available to rent, lead through the park from Grosseto to the beaches, passing herds of horned Maremma cows and wild horses.
Stop for a tasting plate of cheeses made at dairy La Maremmana. Their speciality is the buffalo mozzarella, and they’ll pack up extras to take away for a picnic at the beach. Agriturismo il Melograno di Banditellain Alberese has doubles from €120 B&B
FOR a simple stay in the city, The Resident Victoria is the place to be, being right in the middle of London.
Here’s everything you need to know.
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Here is everything you need to know about staying at The Resident VictoriaCredit: NEIL HEWISONStay in the lobby in the evening for the free wine hoursCredit: NEIL HEWISON
Where is The Resident Victoria?
The hotel is just steps from Buckingham Palace, so royal family fans can head straight to it.
Being right by Victoria Station as well, it means you can easily hop into central London or even easily get to London airports including Gatwick and Heathrow?
What is the hotel like?
Just one of four in London – with another in Liverpool and Edinburgh – the hotel itself is simply but classy.
What are the rooms like?
The 73-room hotel ranges from single person rooms to deluxe rooms with super king beds.
EVERY few months you can grab free tickets to the races at racecourses like Doncaster and Ayr – but only if you’re a Sun Club member.
Once you sign up to Sun Club, you can benefit from a range of exclusive, members-only offers.
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Sun Club members can claim complementary racing tickets four times a year
These include free darts tickets, 50% off West End shows, money off of London attraction tickets, plus early access to £9.50 holidays and more.
It’s really easy to sign up – simply click the button below to sign up to the £1.99 monthly membership, or bag a year for just £12.
Right now there’s a range of free race days for Sun Club members to make the most of, where you can bag four tickets for races every few months.
We’ve put together all of the race days coming up in the calendar for Sun Club members to pick from – plus the best things to do nearby, so you can make the most of your travels there.
Gents Evening 2026 at Fontwell Park Racecourse, West Sussex Fri, 24 Apr 2026 at 3:15pm
Fontwell Park describe this raceday as “The Ultimate Lads Day Out”, and ask guests to think Peaky Blinders and dress up dapper for a charmingly fun day.
Fontwell Park in West Sussex is also the only racecourse in the UK with a figure of eight-shaped steeplechase, which requires some amazing skill from the jockeys and is a joy to watch.
Make the most of dressing up posh and explore the Arundel Castle and Gardens, an 11th-century castle surrounded by 38 acres of gardens.
Saturday Evening – April Flat Racing 2026 at Doncaster Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 2:35pm
This April Flat Turf Racing offers an exciting way to watch a straight mile sprint live, plus there’s even 50% off draught drinks and £10 off bottles of fizz for the first hour after the gates open.
Doncaster Racecourse offers fun for all the family, with live entertainment and food and drinks stalls to explore.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of the oldest in Britain, putting on world-class races since the 1500’s – and you could bag a historic day of fun there for free if you’re signed up to Sun Club.
Nearby top attractions include Yorkshire Wildlife Park and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, should you wish to make a day of it.
Country & Western Racenight 2026 at Southwell Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 4:00pm
Yeehaw! Don your cowboy hat and boots for a country-themed night at the races with this last-minute racing night offer.
Expect live renditions of Dolly Parton classics by a tribute act, followed by a night of dancing to DJ tunes.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like wandering The Workhouse, a popular National Trust site.
Four-Legged Friends Raceday at Nottingham Racecourse Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 12:15pm
No need to leave your furry friend at home with this dog-friendly race day at the esteemed Nottingham Racecourse.
You can even enter your pet in a range of competitions, which include Loveliest Lady and Best Rescue.
If you’re staying for the weekend, take your furry friend on a walk through the beautiful grounds of Wollaton Hall.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of Britain’s oldest and most popular racecoursesCredit: Doncaster RacecourseTake a visit to the nearby dog-friendly grounds of Wollaton Hall whilst you’re thereCredit: Getty Images – Getty
May Racedays
RSA Syndicate Evening Racing at Huntingdon Racecourse Tue, 19 May 2026 at 4:30pm
Race days at Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire make for a spectacular day out.
The home of the Peterborough Chase offers other fun events throughout the year, such as their RSA Syndicate Evening Racing, where you can bag a free ticket this May as a Sun Club member.
Spend the day beforehand having a nosy in Cambs Lock Antiques or the Cromwell Museum.
Tennent’s Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Wed, 20 May 2026 at 12:10pm
Ayr is Scotland’s premier racecourse, home to massive events like the Scottish Grand National and Ayr Gold Cup.
The Tennent’s Raceday is one of the venue’s biggest midweek racing events, with plenty of friendly competition and top-tier hospitality.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like strolling the historic Auld Brig or visiting the town centre to pop in some traditional pubs.
Feel Good Friday Racing at Carlisle Racecourse Fri, 29 May 2026 at 1:10pm
Thoroughbred horse racing venue Carlisle Racecourse are running a Feel Good Friday race day, where you can expect an afternoon packed with plenty of races and also music from a live DJ.
This is the only Friday in the racecourse’s racing calendar, so make sure to bag it whilst you can by signing up to Sun Club.
Stay the weekend and explore two mega historical sites: Carslisle Castle and the epic Hadrian’s Wall.
There are even costume character races at the Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr RacecourseCredit: Ayr RacecourseYou could stay in Carslile for the weekend and visit the nearby Hadrian’s WallCredit: Alamy
June Racedays
Virtus Property Race Night at Warwick Racecourse Wed, 3 Jun 2026 at 4:30pm
The Virtus Property Race Night offers evening races under the lights, plus access to bars and the food market.
This evening also includes access to the Grandstand, winner’s enclosure, pre-parade and parade ring, too.
Spend the day beforehand at Warwick Castle, where you can see exciting shows from falconry to live jousting.
Fiver Friday Evening Racing at Market Rasen Racecourse Fri, 12 Jun 2026 at 12:05pm
Head to Market Rasen Racecourse for a family-friendly evening packed with exciting races – plus under 18’s get to go for free.
Market Rasen Racecourse is a beautiful site in the Lincolnshire Wolds, which held its first race in 1924.
The Lincolnshire Wolds are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offer plenty of scenic hiking and walking trails.
July Racedays
Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Sun, 5 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The day will include seven races, family-friendly entertainment, and even a mascot race where colourful characters will compete.
Turn the weekend into a family staycation and meet the animals at Ayr Farm Park or visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
Glasgow Fair Family Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Mon, 20 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The Glasgow Fair Family Raceday sees various owners and trainers put their horses to the test on the grounds.
There will be seven races, as well as free entertainment – plus kids go free.
Other things to do nearby include seeing the ruins of Greenan Castle or takig a stroll along Ayr Beach.
Ayr Racecourse is the premier racecourse of Scotland, as it hosts the coutry’s only Grade 1 trackCredit: PAThere’s plenty more to see and do in Ayr, including the Robert Burns Birthplace MuseumCredit: Alamy
How to bag your free racing tickets
How to sign up to the Sun Club Membership Programme:
Step 1: To book your racing tickets join Sun Club now for just £1.99 a month.
Step 2: Then head to the Offers Hub Racing Page, select the ‘Four Free Racing Tickets’ tile, choose the racecourse you want to go to then click the ‘Book’ button.
Step 3: Confirm your details and then you will receive an email with your tickets.
Once tickets are all claimed, we will open up a limited waiting list for cancellations before showing it as ‘Fully booked’.
18+ UK only. Online access required. Four tickets every three month of active subscription. Racecourses and racedays vary subject to availability. Sun Club: 18+ UK only. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per per year unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For full T&Cs, visitthesun.co.uk/club
The Widow is available to watch on ITVX, and stars Kate Beckinsale in a tense role.
It follows the Underworld actress as Georgia Wells, who has believed her husband died in a plane crash.
However, three years later, having lived as a recluse and grieving widow, she sees him in a news report following a riot in the Democratic Republic of Congo and hunts to find him, travelling to Kinshasa for the truth.
As she looks for answers, she’s left questioning why her husband may have faked his own death.
The synopsis teases: “Kate Beckinsale leads as a grieving woman in this gripping drama.”
It adds: “A woman’s search to uncover the mystery of what happened to her husband leads her to the Congo, where she’s forced to seek the truth about what happened to the man she loved.”
The series first aired on Amazon Prime Video in 2019, before being added to the free streaming service.
Parts of The Widow were filmed in South Africa, with Kate suffering from the heat and later revealing she “fainted” while filming because it was “really, really, really hot”.
The cast also included Game of Thrones star Charles Dance, Strictly star Alex Kingston, Olafur Darri Olafsson, Matthew Le Nevez, and Shetland actress Louise Brealey.
Viewers were left hooked by the programme, with one admitting they were “glued to this show”, while several others echoed that they “binged” it.
Another person said: “It kept me on the edge of my seat each show. I really enjoyed the series.”
Reflecting several fans’ pleas for a second season, one person said: “The acting and cinematics are phenomenal. I cannot wait to see season 2!!”
“It was thrilling and entertaining,” someone else said, as another called it “nail-biting”.
Someone else called it “absolutely magnificent”, adding: “The setting was breathtaking and the dialogue was phenomenal.”
Yet another hailed Kate’s “outstanding” performance, while one person added: “A bit slow to start but a gem of a series.”
Despite fans begging for a second season, writers Harry and Jack Williams previously told Express.co.ukthat they have no plans to take it forward.
They explained: “By the time we get to the end, it’s a one-off. It’s very satisfying. There’s no secret pilot. There’s no following season.
“It’s really exciting for the eight parts, it’s almost like a movie really.”
The writing duo and brothers behind The Missing and Liar continued: “I think there isn’t scope for more.”
Walt Disney World has just launched two offers that could help families save money on a dream holiday to the Florida theme parks – and it’s valid for school holidays too
16:47, 21 Apr 2026Updated 16:53, 21 Apr 2026
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Walt Disney World has brought back its popular free dining and drinks deal(Image: Getty Images)
Walt Disney World is a bucket list destination for most families, but visiting the Florida theme parks isn’t necessarily easy to do on a budget.
However, Mickey Mouse’s US home has just launched a deal that could help families save money on their meals – and you could currently save up to £400 off a booking too.
That’s because the resort’s Free Disney Dining and Drinks deal is back for holidays in 2027 – including some school holiday dates – with plans that include free table service dining plans or quick service plans, and one drink per meal (alcoholic or non-alcoholic, depending on the plan you go for). The offer is valid for a minimum of five nights’ consecutive stays if you’re booking a Walt Disney World hotel along with a park ticket package.
You can already book on disneypackages.co.uk, with the deal running until November 4, 2026. However, if you book by July 2, 2026, then you could also bag a discount of up to £400 per booking.
Don’t be disheartened if it’s not quite the right deal for you, or you can’t commit before July 2. For a start, if you book after July 2, you’ll still be able to save up to £200 per booking. Meanwhile, there are plenty of tempting deals and offers throughout the year with the Walt Disney Travel Company, including the Free Dining and Drinks offers. If you’re after ticket offers, the likes of Floridatix and AttractionTix can also be good sources, especially if you’re thinking of combining your Disney trip with other Orlando attractions, or even some of the Universal theme parks.
If Florida still feels a little too far to travel just yet and you want some of that Disney magic just a little closer to home, then you may want to consider a cruise, as the Disney Wish cruise ship will be sailing from the UK next summer (we got a sneak peek at what you can expect onboard earlier this year).
Animal Kingdom theme park: Bluey and Bingo will be at the Conservation Station from May 26, with photo opps and games.
Magic Kingdom: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is back after refurbishment, with new interactive targets, lights and sound effects. Meanwhile, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen on May 3.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: From May 22, Star Wars fans can join The Mandalorian and Grogu on a new Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run mission. From May 26, the former Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will open with its new Muppets theme.
Have you got a holiday question you want answering? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Teams have had a little more than a week to prepare their training camp rosters between free agency, the league’s primary draft and an expansion draft. The Sparks have one of the more notable roster transformations in the league, adding Nneka Ogwumike, Erica Wheeler and Ariel Atkins.
On Sunday at the start of training camp in San Diego, Wheeler said Sparks returning guard Kelsey Plum sold her on the vision of the organization, and Ogwumike’s signing cemented it.
“KP played a big role in having me here,” she said, describing a lunch last season when Plum told Wheeler she wanted her to sign with the Sparks. “I think Nneka just was like the tip of the iceberg, like it was a no brainer. Once Nneka decides she wants to come here, because, as you know, president [of the WNBPA], life is always easier around her.
“We want to win the championship.”
Ogwumike’s return to Los Angeles was just one indicator that the Sparks are, as Wheeler put it, “going for gold.”
This year’s Sparks roster looks a lot more intentional than a couple of years ago. General manager Raegan Pebley said Atkins’ addition helps establish a deeper offense, while Rae Burrell playing at the three gives them more versatility.
There are still question marks. They don’t have a ton of ball-handling depth or much true-center play after Cameron Brink.
But Ogwumike has seen the changes internally and from afar, and she thinks the Sparks are ready to compete now.
“I didn’t actually want to leave, but I felt like I needed to, considering the growth that we wanted to see further in the organization, and I really wanted to come back,” she said. “… The timeline of a lot of things [in the offseason] accelerated, me narrowing down certain organizations, but L.A. was in the mix not because, not just because of the time that I’ve had here, but because of the amazing progress that I’ve seen in just the two years in my absence.”
Ogwumike said part of that was the investment in a practice facility, set to debut in 2027, and that the front office, led by Pebley, had a plan to build a winning team.
But the most important thing in bringing in the veteran trio was that the Sparks had a plan on the court, too.
“It’s really exciting when you can be in a place where everybody has the main thing being the main thing,” Atkins said. “And that’s not to say it wasn’t like that in the past, but it’s different when you have older players and vets around you that have done it before, because the way that they walk in, the way that they talk, there’s no uncertainty there, right? It’s like, this is how we need to get through, this is what we need to do, get it done so it really just be on us.”
Wheeler has only played in the WNBA postseason a handful of times between Indiana and Seattle and at 36 years old, she joined the Sparks led by coach Lynne Roberts with the intention of playing for a winner.
“I tell people all the time, I’m a businesswoman,” she said. “I have money. … So money don’t move me, [there] was a lot more money out there for me to go after. But I felt like Lynne is building a championship rock, and I want to be a part of that.”
Atkins was traded from Chicago for Rickea Jackson, a controversial move that shipped one of the best young players in the game away from the Sparks. On draft night, Pebley said the move helped them win games now and she reiterated that on Sunday.
“We were really aware of is that we were missing another counter punch with KP, she needed some support in terms of somebody that can take some pressure off of her, to have to score it, or to have to create for someone else to score it, that was a big reason of why Ariel, we feel, is a great fit,” she said. “And then Erica Wheeler is just a winner, and she’s going to bring some toughness and leadership there. So I think with those three at the one-two spot, we’re super excited about that.”
Atkins adds a defensive layer alongside Ogwumike for a team that was dead last in the WNBA in defensive points per game last season, and that’s one of those intentional, win-now kind of moves that has everyone in the organization excited.
The Sparks finished just two games out of a playoff spot last season. This year, expectations are far more than just finishing as a playoff team, and that messaging brought in one of the most cohesive rosters in the WNBA.
“I always say that the killer combination is investment and engagement, and so I’m seeing both at very high levels, and it permeates every aspect of the organization,” Ogwumike said. “Whether it’s basketball ops, front office, player experience, practice facility, it’s just something that I’ve always believed was our standard, and not only have we matched what our expectations were, but we’re now exceeding it in a timeline that I think is much faster than I ever expected.”
Federal immigration officials had once again flouted his authority by keeping a man locked up in a California City detention center after Nunley ordered him released. When he was finally set free, the man was booted onto the street with no passport, driver’s license or other personal effects. The judge’s demand that the items be returned were met with silence.
And so on Tuesday, Nunley, the chief judge of the Eastern District of California, slapped Department of Justice attorney Jonathan Yu with an official sanction and a $250 fine.
In a scathing order, Nunley laid out why he was compelled to take such a rare step. The fine may have been less than some traffic tickets, but it’s nearly unheard for a judge to formally admonish a government lawyer.
By Yu’s own admission, he was drowning in work. In his order, Nunley recounted the attorney’s claim he’d been assigned more than 300 nearly identical cases in the last three months, all of immigrants in detention who argued they were being held without cause.
Court filings show many California cases involve longtime U.S. residents unexpectedly hauled off to jail after routine check-ins with immigration officials. One was an Afghan who’d helped the American war effort. Another a Cambodian grandmother of eight who fled Pol Pot’s killing fields as a girl nearly 50 years ago.
Until last year, most would have fought deportation on bond after a brief hearing with an immigration judge. Now, their only hope of release is to file a petition for writ of habeas corpus — a legal maneuver once typically reserved for death row inmates and suspected terrorists — inundating the country’s busiest federal courts with thousands of emergency suits.
The Trump administration attorney said he was trying to “triage” the situation, but Nunley found he repeatedly failed to comply, leaving people with the right to walk free stuck behind bars.
“The Court is not persuaded,” he wrote, issuing the sanctions.
The order came days after Nunley took the unusual step of announcing a “judicial emergency” in the district, which covers nearly half of California, stretching from the Oregon border to the Mojave Desert in the inland part of the state, including Fresno, Bakersfield and Sacramento.
In the last year, the Eastern District has received more petitions from immigration detainees than almost any other jurisdiction in the United States: More than 2,700 since January, compared to fewer than 500 last year and just 18 in 2024. Similar crises are playing out elsewhere, with federal courts in Minnesota briefly paralyzed amid the Trump administration’s enforcement blitz there last winter.
People detained are seen behind fences at an ICE detention facility in Adelanto, California on July 10, 2025.
(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)
In an interview with The Times, Nunley said dealing with the surge of activity since last summer has been “like being hit over the head with a bat.”
“We’re up all night doing these cases,” he said.
So far this year, the Eastern District’s six active judges have ordered almost people 2,000 freed.
“The majority of the cases that we see are cases where people should not be detained,” Nunley said. “They should be receiving hearings to determine whether or not they are to remain in this country, and until they receive those hearings, they should be free.”
Since last July, the Department of Homeland Security has ordered that all immigrants it arrests are subject to “mandatory detention” — a policy that had previously only applied to those caught at the border.
The change came four days after President Trump signed a spending bill that earmarked $45 billion to expand the federal network of immigrant lockups.
“This has been a sea change in the way the government has read the law,” said My Khanh Ngo, a senior staff attorney at the ACLU Immigrants’ Rights Project. “Almost every judge who has looked at this has agreed these people should get bond, and yet thousands of people are still sitting in detention.”
Elizabeth Vega, 15, right, and Darlene Rumualdo, 15, from Torres High School join labor organizers, clergy leaders and immigrant rights groups to protest immigration raids nationwide at La Placita Olvera in downtown Los Angeles on January 23, 2026.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
Longtime U.S. residents who might once have fought removal from home — where they can more easily gather evidence to support their case and confer with lawyers — are instead being held indefinitely.
Many have no criminal record. Some have been in the U.S. so long that the countries they came from no longer exist.
“People are locked up in the same facilities as people accused of crimes, people who’ve been convicted of crimes … and then you’re telling people, you have no shot of getting out,” Ngo said. “Detaining people and not giving them the chance to get out of detention is a way of coercing people to give up their claims.”
The habeas process can take weeks or months depending on the judge and the district.
“When the immigration cases dropped on our district, we got hit harder than any other outside West Texas,” Nunley said. “Initially we had more cases than anyone else.”
Today, data compiled by ProPublica and legal activist groups including the Immigration Justice Transparency Initiative show almost a quarter of the roughly 30,000 active habeas petitions in the United States are in California courts. Nunley’s own tabulations show half the California cases are in his district, where a perfect storm of stepped-up enforcement, a large population of immigrant workers and a concentration of detention centers produced a flash flood of habeas petitions.
The cases rely on the Constitution’s guarantee of due process before being deprived of life, liberty or property. But according to court filings, in some instances the government has argued “the Fifth Amendment does not apply” to detained immigrants.
DOJ lawyers responding to the bids for freedom now regularly complain they’re being crushed under paperwork.
Judges accustomed to having government lawyers comply with their orders have been left fuming.
In California’s Central District, which includes L.A. and surrounding areas, Judge Sunshine Sykes wrote a fiery decision earlier this year that said the Trump administration is inflicting “terror against noncitizens.”
Sykes is one of several federal judges across the country that have tried to compel the government to resume bond hearings. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocked that decision in March, leaving the habeas system in place for now. But with challenges or recent decisions across multiple circuits, experts say the fight is fated for the Supreme Court.
“ICE has the law and the facts on its side, and it adheres to all court decisions until it ultimately gets them shot down by the highest court in the land,” a Homeland Security spokesperson said in an email to The Times.
A woman holds a “ICE not welcome here!” sign at a vigil in San Pedro in January.
(Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times)
The lawyers fighting to free those jailed under the Trump administration’s mandatory detention policy say they were not initially equipped for these legal battles because they used to be exceedingly rare.
Most federal judges had only seen a handful of habeas petitions before last summer — then suddenly they had hundreds of requests for urgent relief, according to Jean Reisz, co-director of the USC Immigration Clinic.
Reisz said there are efforts to get pro bono law groups trained on how to effectively argue habeas cases, “but it takes a while to get up to speed.”
A federal agent asks residents to move back after a shooting during an immigration enforcement operation in Willowbrook on January 21, 2026.
(Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)
At the same time, Reisz said, lawyers are pushing judges who oversee the cases to act swiftly, since interminable procedural delays ensure people remain incarcerated.
“Most of the habeas petitions include a motion for temporary restraining orders, and that requires emergency decisions from the courts, which requires the courts to act very fast,” Reisz said.
In California’s federal district courts, the backlog remains thousands deep. Nunley said the system is struggling to keep up with the crush of cases.
“There’s nothing that says that noncitizens should not be entitled to due process,” Nunley said. “These are our people, they reside in our district. They’re entitled to the same due process that you and I are entitled to.”
Save stress and time if your holiday is due to start in the early hours of the morning
It’s one less thing you have to stress about when getting to the airport at 4am(Image: Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
People can start their holiday quicker than others when flying with Jet2 and taking advantage of a little-known service that lets families skip the queues. Planning this ahead of time can make early morning flights feel “a whole lot easier”.
On its website, Jet2 claims the Twilight Check-in service can be used by any passengers booked to fly on a service due to leave the airport before midday. Later flights in the afternoon or evening cannot benefit from this perk.
A spokesperson said: “Your morning flight is about to get a whole lot easier. With our free Twilight Check-in service, you can drop your bags off at your UK departure airport between 4.30pm and 9pm the evening before your morning flight.
“Thanks to Twilight Check-in, when you arrive at departures the next day, your luggage is already sorted. If you live near the airport or are staying at a nearby hotel, it’ll make your morning a little easier.”
Flights leaving before midday are extremely common at UK airports. People tend to opt for these early departures to make the most of their holiday time rather than leaving the UK later.
The following UK airports offer the free Jet2 Twilight Service:
Birmingham
Bristol
East Midlands
Edinburgh
Glasgow International
Leeds Bradford
Liverpool
London Gatwick
London Luton
London Stansted
Manchester
Newcastle
The process of pre-checking luggage the night before can save time and hassle on the morning of the trip. Jet2 claims that people don’t need to book this service specifically in advance, but people do need to check in online “no later than 24 hours before their flight”.
Some UK airports offer discounted or free limited-time parking to customers who use Twilight Check-in. The Jet2 website lists 10 that offer this for customers, but stresses that travellers should check for themselves using the Airport Information page on its website.
People who want to use this service will need to remember to bring their boarding passes and passports along with bags (excluding hand luggage). After completing everything, get some rest and, on the day of the flight, Jet2 claims people can simply “bypass check-in and head to security”.
It only takes one person from your group to check in and drop off bags for up to six people travelling on the same booking reference. For full details of how the free service works, click here.
Anyone who thinks Coachella’s biggest surprises are reserved for Weekend 1 was proven wrong Friday night as Sabrina Carpenter welcomed Madonna on stage during her Weekend 2 headlining set. The crowd exploded with waves of cheers as the iconic pop star came on stage.
Madge joined Carpenter as a surprise guest during “Juno,” in which Carpenter reemerged in a gown that was a nod to Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” for a torch-passing duet of Madonna’s 1990 pop-house gauntlet “Vogue.”
The classic was followed by the debut of the gloriously upbeat “I Feel Free,” the first track from the pop icon’s forthcoming new album “Confessions II,” due out July 3.
The singer announced the record, a sequel to 2005’s “Confessions On A Dancefloor,” on April 15, alongside a 60-second teaser video for “I Feel Free.”
The Coachella performance, however, marks the first time the song has been heard in full — a fitting full circle moment 20 after Madonna played the Sahara Tent in 2006, complete with the same boots and costuming from that gig. “Confessions II” will be Madonna’s first full-length album since 2019’s “Madame X.”
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“Let’s try to be together. Let’s try to avoid disagreements,” Madonna said as she spoke about the moon and planets aligning.
Before the pair ended with “Like a Prayer,” accompanied by a choir, Madonna had another reason to be grateful.
“This is probably the first time I’ve ever performed with someone shorter than me,” Madonna said to Carpenter as the crowd laughed. “Thank you for giving me that experience.”
Senior Audience Editor Vanessa Franko contributed to this report.
A POPULAR European city destination is adopting a green voucher scheme that will see tourists rewarded for litter picking this summer.
The city is hoping to attract tourists who don’t mind getting their hands a bit dirty on their holiday.
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The scheme has proven successful in other European citiesCredit: Getty
Germany‘s capital, Berlin, is set to introduce the ‘BerlinPay’ scheme that will see tourists rewarded for engaging in sustainable behaviour, like supporting social projects and collecting rubbish.
This year, the scheme is going to be centred around water tourism and, partnered with the Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises, the model hopes to make responsible engagement around the waters visible and appreciated.
The tourism agency, Visit Berlin, has described the scheme as “an initiative that raises awareness and encourages responsible behaviour on and around Berlin’s waterways among visitors and Berliners”.
The agency has continued: “Those who behave responsibly on and around the water, for example by collecting trash, beautifying the neighbourhood, or supporting social projects – receive recognition from participating partners: small benefits or special Berlin experiences.”
The scheme is hoping to create a virtuous circle, where people get engaged, appreciate the city, and in turn are rewarded with a positive experience that will then drive engagement up further.
Berlin is currently looking for companies and initiatives to get involved with the reward scheme this summer and is keen on partners related to “Berlin’s water world”.
The tourism agency emphasized companies involved in water sports, leisure and tourism, gastronomy, hotel industry, culture and education, mobility, and environmental and urban initiatives should apply.
This new project appears to be following in the footsteps of Denmark, which launched ‘CopenPay’ for the country’s capital back in 2024.
So far, the scheme has proved to be effective and has had positive effects in the city, as tourists are given rewards such as boat trips and free bike rentals for their sustainable behaviour.
The head of communications and behavioural research at Wonderful Copenhagen, Rikke Holm Petersen, has reiterated the benefits to both the tourists and the city.
“When people are on holiday, they are more open to new ideas, and with CopenPay we have shown that tourists are not only happy to take part but are also inspired to…take new habits home with them,” Peterson said.
There are some specific perks that families can take advantage of at no extra cost when flying with Jet2. The airline has two policies in place to make travel easier for families with young children – and they are both completely free.
Some of these perks will only apply to families with children born between certain dates after 2024. They are usually applied automatically at check-in by the customer service team, but knowing about them in advance can mean parents can take full advantage.
When flying with Jet2, any infant (under the age of two on the date of the flight) can travel free of charge. During the booking process, families can select the option to have a child who meets the age requirements sit on an adult’s lap at no cost.
Even though little ones don’t get their own bag with this ‘free’ ticket, adding them to your booking will increase the amount allowed in an adult’s checked luggage by 10kg, the airline confirmed. This allowance is added to an accompanying adult’s 22kg hold bag, giving one suitcase a maximum weight of 32kg.
A spokesperson for Jet2 said: “Although infants don’t have their own checked baggage allowance, if you have hold luggage on your booking, we’ll automatically increase your allowance by an extra 10kg per infant, free of charge. That gives you some more room for any extra items you want to check in for your infant. This additional allowance does not need to be pre-booked.”
While this allowance is often technically added to one adult’s allowance, families report that total baggage allowance can usually be pooled across multiple cases, provided no single case exceeds 32kg. Infants under two when they fly can also benefit from extra items, in addition to the luggage carried by family members in their group.
At no extra cost, Jet2 allows families to bring up to two items on board. These can include:
A collapsible pushchair, pram or buggy
A car seat or booster seat
A baby carrier
A travel cot
In Jet2’s rules, it claims that “each item must weigh no more than 32kg”. Families are allowed to bring more than two items if needed, but the airline stated that any extra items (or weight beyond your allowance) “will be charged as standard excess baggage”.
This kind of policy is typical of many family-friendly airlines, such as easyJet and Ryanair. These items can either be checked in on arrival and put in the luggage hold or taken to the gate.
A statement on Faro Airport’s official website reads: “Passport controls on arrival at Portugal may take up more time, as the passport will have to be stamped and there are additional questions that may be asked by the border control officers.”
The new system being put in place is the European Union’s European Entry/Exit System (EES), which started on October 12, 2025. It is a new digital border system that has changed requirements for British citizens travelling to the Schengen area EES checks are being introduced in a phased way for non-EU and UK travellers, with full operation expected from April 2026.
Defra and UK Border Force warn travellers about strict customs rules
07:01, 12 Apr 2026Updated 07:56, 12 Apr 2026
You may not realise these things cannot be brought in(Image: ASphotowed via Getty Images)
Holidaymakers could face fines of up to £5,000 for bringing certain goods into England, even if those items were purchased at the duty free section of your departure airport.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) released an update at the end of March, calling on travellers to “take a simple step to help protect GB from animal diseases”. It continued: “To protect our animals from the devastating effects of diseases like foot and mouth, it’s illegal to bring meats such as lamb, pork or beef or dairy products from the EU into GB in your luggage.
“This means items such as cheese, cured or raw meats, sandwiches and milk, including duty free purchases. Products will be seized and you risk fines.”
Restrictions are in place regarding bringing meat, dairy, fish and animal products, as well as fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds into Great Britain from overseas. Should you declare any prohibited food items to Border Force officers at customs, they will confiscate and dispose of them.
Additional guidance on Gov.uk cautions: “If you do not declare banned food products, you could be fined up to £5,000 (in England) or you could be prosecuted.” The regulations surrounding the importation of meat, dairy, fish and other animal products vary depending on the country of origin.
If you are returning from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, you are prohibited from bringing in any of the following:
cheese, milk and dairy products like butter and yoghurt
pork
beef
lamb
mutton
goat
venison
other products made from these meats, for example sausages
You can bring in the following for personal use:
fish
poultry, for example chicken, duck, goose and any other products made from these meats
other animal products, for example eggs and honey
You can also bring in up to 2kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food needed for medical reasons. You can only bring it in if it does not need to be refrigerated before use, and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless in current use).
If you’re coming from a country outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, you cannot bring any meat or meat products, or milk or milk-based products, except for powdered infant milk, infant food or special food needed for medical reasons.
You can bring in up to 2kg per person of:
honey
powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food (including pet food) needed for medical reasons – you can only bring it in if it does not need to be refrigerated before use, and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless in current use)
live mussels or oysters
snails – these must be preserved or shelled, cooked and prepared
frogs’ legs – these must be the back (hind) part of the frog with the skin and internal organs removed
insect protein
You can bring in up to 20kg per person in total of fish, including:
fresh fish – must be gutted
fish products
processed fish – must be dried, cooked, cured or smoked
The series first aired a decade ago and gained a loyal fan following.
09:00, 09 Apr 2026Updated 09:02, 09 Apr 2026
The 2016 series is hailed a ‘hidden-gem masterpiece’ (Image: ITV)
A “gritty” crime drama that fans have hailed as “underrated” is free to binge on ITVX.
StartUp is an American TV series that first aired back in 2016, with an A-list cast including Adam Brody, Martin Freeman, Edi Gathegi, Otmara Marrero, Ron Perlman and Mira Sorvino.
The series ran for three seasons before coming to an end in 2018, but all three are available to watch on the free streaming service.
The crime drama follows the emergence of a new tech idea that sparks controversy, GenCoin, a digital currency.
When three unlikely people come together for the new business, but find themselves plunged into the dark underworld of organised crime, they must avoid a crooked FBI agent working to take them down.
The synopsis on ITVX teases: “Martin Freeman and Adam Brody shine in this gritty drama. A banker, hacker and gang lord unite in a plan to launder millions, as a crooked agent goes to extremes to take them down.”
Fans have been left begging for a fourth season for a decade, as one wrote: “This series is just something unlike any other other show… I’ve never felt so immersed into a show before. Went through all 3 seasons in about 2 days, it was that good.”
Someone else said: “Couldn’t turn it off, Binge watched the series in a few days,” while another called it an “excellent hidden gem”.
Yet another fan wrote that they were “yearning for more”, adding: “This is a cracker of a series. So full of twists and turns. Great characters, script, direction and cinematography. I can’t believe that it ended. OMG. This was one of the more bingeworthy series I have seen. Relentless drama. I loved the characters and their interrelationships. Powerful stuff.”
One devoted viewer said it was “a crazy underrated show that’s totally binge-worthy,” while someone else said: “This got me hooked from the first episode.”
Another called it “a true diamond in the rough,” while someone else wrote: “This is probably the most underrated TV show I’ve ever seen in my life.”
One fan echoed: “This masterpiece deserves at least a 9. It is so well done and leaves you held in aesthetic arrest. The build up to the various climaxes induces full on catharsis.”
Fans were left gutted when the show came to an end, with no plans for season four, as Spanish film director Luis Prieto, who worked on four episodes of the original season, told Express.co.uk: “This, I really don’t know. It was a Crackle show and from the story, it was working very well.
“I think people were aware it was connecting with the audience but I’m not sure what happened.
“Sometimes things just stop and sometimes it’s for the best. I’m sure Ben Ketai would be extremely excited to continue the adventure.”
Meanwhile, Olly Blackburn, another director who worked on the programme, said he “never guessed” the show would be as big as it was, saying: “If you make something big that connects with people, the audience will find it eventually, and all around the world too.”
