heartbreaking

Roman Kemp’s sister Harley Moon’s heartbreaking confession over their bond

Harley Moon Kemp has revealed that she never receives an invite to the pub from her brother Roman as they made their debut together on Celebrity Race Across The World

Harley Moon Kemp has revealed that she never receives an invite to the pub from her brother, Roman. The photographer,36, who is the daughter of TV legend Martin Kemp and pop singer Shirlie Kemp, has stayed largely out of the spotlight, whilst her sibling, 32, has carved out a successful career as a radio host, One Show presenter and general television personality.

But as she and her younger brother appeared on the first episode of Celebrity Race Across The World on Thursday night, the pair shared an exchange that gave an insight into their relationship.

In their introduction, Roman admitted: We’ve got some slightly different traits. Harley was always the one going out, getting in trouble; I was more boring!”

Harley Moon responded: “Roman is going to be practical; and the planning and the budgeting,” as he replied: “You’re in charge of cups and ice.”

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It was then that she explained: “We’ve got that conventional family thing going on when you call each other when you need stuff,” before Roman replied: “I don’t know what it’s like to hang out with Harleymoon.”

Implying that was his fault, Harley Moon hit back: “You never invite me to the pub,” before the former I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! star clarified: “Because I never go!”

Just months before taking on Celebrity Race Across the World 2025 with his older sister, which will see the sibling duo competing with other stars as they race 5,900km across Central America on just £30 each a day, Loose Men star Roma opened up about the struggle he remembers most vividly from his childhood.

In a conversation with singer Tom Grennan on their You About? podcast, Roman shared memories of him and Harley Moon featuring in national magazines alongside their famous parents during a period when finances were tight for the family.

Shirlie and husband Martin, who was a member of the band Spandau Ballet before starring as Steve Owen in BBC soap EastEnders, were struggling with money due to the musician’s health battles in the nineties.

My parents had no money at the time because my dad had all these operations and s*** for his brain, so, like, they were trying to get more money,” Roman explained to podcast co-host Tom. He went on to admit that even though they had appeared in magazines as a family, Martin and Shirlie were still anxious about their children being snapped by paparazzi on holiday.

Roman continued: “But then, even up to when I was maybe 13, if we’d gone on holiday, we were never allowed to go to the beach because when we went on the beach, my mum and dad would always be like, ‘there it is’ and you’d see a boat come past, quite far out, and then, like, stop, and there would just be a long lens camera just taking pictures of kids on beaches.”

Roman heartbreakingly revealed his mum would often be left in tears after seeing pictures the paparazzi had taken of them appearing in the press. He shared: “It’s mad in that sense, you see it less and less now, like those old celebrity pictures on the beach, you see that a lot less now.

“But at the time, my whole life, me growing up, was my mum crying because they’re taking horrendous pictures and they’d only use the worst picture.” Reflecting on a specific traumatic moment following a holiday, Roman said Shirlie “cried for, like, five days” when photos of the family on a banana boat were published in the press.

Ahead of Celebrity Race Across the World airing on Thursday night, Harleymoon explained she was previously given the chance to go on the BBC show with her mum, but Shirlie had concerns, so the pair missed out.

Harleymoon told the Radio Times: “My mum was asked to be in the first Celebrity Race Across the World and was going to take me, but thought it sounded too hard. I was glad to have another chance to go.”

Sharing his own motivations to sign up to the series, Roman, who has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression, said: “I came off all medication [antidepressants] over a year ago and the race was a good test for my anxiety.”

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Prunella Scales’ heartbreaking admission to actor husband in final ever interview

Timothy West died last November and now his wife Prunella Scales has tragically passed away. The pair spoke fondly of one another in their final ever interview

Prunella Scales and Timothy West spoke of their deep love for another in their final interview together. The EastEnders actor revealed that he had spotted a potential sign of his wife Prunella’s dementia years before her diagnosis was confirmed.

In November, it was confirmed that Timothy – known for his roles in shows like EastEnders – had died at the age of 90. Prunella’s death was announced today, just months after her husband’s sad passing.

In what is believed to be one of his last interviews, conducted in 2023, Timothy opened up about his wife Prunella’s battle with dementia. The couple appeared on BBC Breakfast for an interview together, in what would be their last appearance on TV.

Prunella, who is most recognised for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the classic sitcom Fawlty Towers, received her dementia diagnosis in 2014. However, Timothy suggested that he first noticed signs of the condition as early as 2001.

Reflecting on the moment he first observed his wife’s decline, he shared: “I came to see a play that Pru was doing in Greenwich. I went to see the first night and it was good, much enjoyed by the audience, and then I went to see it again a bit later on and I thought ‘Pru’s not … it’s strange. She’s not totally with it.'”

Despite these early signs, her official dementia diagnosis didn’t come until over a decade later. Timothy recalled: “We went to see a specialist who just said ‘I’m sorry this is just something that happens to you when you get older’. It’s not going to get any easier but you can cope with it. We manage.”

Despite the tough landscape they found themselves in, Prunella said: “I have got to know him better and better and better.”

Timothy added: “I know that things are going to change a little bit, but it has been a long time and we have managed pretty well really. I don’t think we ever think ‘oh no.'”

Prunella then shared: “I have been asked to live the rest of my life with somebody I respect very much and agree with a lot of things and argue with about a lot of things quite happily.”

During a chat with the BBC, which was conducted prior to the launch of Timothy’s book, he was questioned about his wife Prunella’s vascular dementia diagnosis. He said that “somehow” they have “coped” over the years.

“Pru doesn’t really think about it,” he added. Timothy and Pru have been husband and wife since 1963. The couple have two sons together, actors Samuel West and Joseph West. Their family also includes Timothy’s daughter Juliet West from a previous marriage.

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Strictly Come Dancing’s Tess Daly details heartbreaking family regret

Strictly Come Dancing star Tess Daly has been part of the BBC show since it began back in 2004 when she fronted the programme with Bruce Forsyth.

For the past 21 years, BBC viewers have seen presenter Tess Daly welcome a range of well-known celebrities onto the dancefloor as they try to raise the Glitterball on Strictly Come Dancing.

Although the current series is in full swing, with Stefan Dennis being forced to withdraw in the week, the beloved programme first began back in 2004, when Tess became pregnant with her first child.

However, Tess confessed that she didn’t tell bosses about her pregnancy over fears they wouldn’t want her fronting the show, although once they knew Tess shared that no one minded and all was fine.

Tess and husband Vernon Kay share two daughters together, Phoebe and Amber, with Phoebe recently reaching a huge milestone which was celebrated by her parents.

However, the 56-year-old sadly never got to introduce her children to her father, Vivian, as he sadly died the year before of emphysema, 18 days after her wedding to Vernon.

In the past, she’s opened up about losing her father and the one thing she regrets following his death.

Back in 2010, the Strictly star told The Guardian how much she misses him, as he was a strong role model in her life.

She said: “The man by whom I judged all others, really, because he was such an honourable and moral person who would never harm another being.

“Just a positive, outgoing… a great guy really and a brilliant father and I do really wish he could have met his grandchildren. That’s my greatest regret, that he never met his grandchildren.”

Similarly, five years ago when speaking to the Daily Mail, she emphasised her regret over her dad not meeting her children, along with him not getting the chance to see her role on Strictly.

She commented: “He would have been so proud. He loved Bruce Forsyth. He adored ballroom, all of it.”

BBC viewers saw Tess and Bruce front the show for a decade before he stepped down from the show in 2014, admitting it was the ‘right time’. Bruce tragically passed away in 2017 aged 89.

Claudia Winkleman was announced as his replacement after hosting the spin-off show It Takes Two.

She’s been part of the show ever since, often seen speaking to the celebrities after their routines in the ‘Clauditorium’

Strictly Come Dancing is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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Heartbreaking moment Kelly Osbourne breaks down in tears live on stage as she pays tribute to late dad Ozzy

KELLY Osbourne was seen breaking down in tears live on stage as she paid tribute to her late dad Ozzy.

Legendary rocker Ozzy was 76 when he sadly passed away on July 22, with the cause of death later revealed to be a cardiac arrest.

Kelly Osbourne broke down in tears on stage as she talked about her beloved dadCredit: Jam Press/Done For You Sales Agency
Kelly was accepting a Lifetime Achievement Award for her late fatherCredit: Jam Press/Done For You Sales Agency
Kelly became choked up as she talked about her late fatherCredit: Splash
Kelly seen here with her brother and mum Jack at her dad’s funeralCredit: Getty

Heartbroken Kelly, 40, took to the stage to accept a Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of her late father in his native Birmingham.

Ozzy was honoured at The Birmingham Awards, held at The Eastside Rooms.

Accepting the award, Kelly told the audience: “While most singers go their whole career without winning one but impressive as those awards are, this recognition tonight tops them all.

“He was proud to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but what he was most proud of was his star on the Walk of Stars on Broad Street.

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“He was forced to spend much of his life in America because of his work but Birmingham was always his heart and soul.’

“He loved this city, he loved the people as they loved him back. That’s why it was so important to come home one last time in July to say goodbye.”

At this point Kelly’s voice started to crack with emotion and she said: “The tens of people who lined the streets and brought the city to a standstill, the affection you all had for him, my family and I were so so moved by the outpouring of love.

“He performed thousands of shows for more than five decades but the most important gig he ever played was in Aston. Despite his health challenges in later years, he was determined his final concert had to be right here.

“He was a proud Brummy in the beginning of his career and he was a proud Brummy at the end.”

Kelly could hardly hold back the tears, as she ended her speech by saying: “Again, on behalf of my dad and my family, thank you for this wonderful lifetime achievement award. I know he’s looking down on us tonight smiling with pride.”

JACK’S TEARS

Kelly’s brother Jack Osbourne recently gave a heartbreaking update on how his mum Sharon is coping after his father’s death.

In an interview on Good Morning America earlier this month, Jack was asked how Sharon has been doing since her husband’s tragic passing.

Sharon was married to Ozzy for 40 years.

“She’s okay, but she’s not okay,” Jack said.

The interviewer, Chris Connelly, then asked if Sharon can “feel the affection and appreciation” from supporters.

Jack responded: “Oh my god, yeah. I know she feels the love.

“None of us expected it to be like this, with that outpour of love.”

He continued: “Every child sits there and kind of has this thought about one day that their parents won’t be there, and what will that be like.

Jack Osbourne recently wept during an interview about his dad on Good Morning AmericaCredit: ABC

“It’s just a part of being human. We just didn’t think of it. It was a different weight to it, you know?”

At one point during the interview, emotional Jack broke down in tears while talking about his father’s final concert.

He said: “Before he went on stage, I ran back into the dressing room…”

Choking back the tears, Jack explained how he gave him a “big hug”.

He said: “I just kissed him. I just said, I was like, ‘Crush it. You’re going to do so good.’

“And I was crying.”

SAD DEATH

Legendary rocker Ozzy passed away in July “surrounded by love” just weeks after he took to the stage one final time with his band mates at Villa Park in Birmingham.

In recent years, the star had been battling numerous health conditions, including Parkinson’s.

His official death certificate lists ‘acute myocardial infarction’ and ‘out of hospital cardiac arrest’ under the cause of death section.

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It also listed coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease with autonomic dysfunction as “joint causes” of Ozzy’s death.

The document described his occupation as a “rock legend, songwriter and performer” in a heart-warming nod towards Ozzy.

Sharon with her beloved late husbandCredit: PA

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Channel 4 Educating Yorkshire’s Mr Burton breaks down in tears as he says ‘it’s heartbreaking’

Channel 4 viewers were left emotional on Sunday night as Educating Yorkshire headteacher Mr Burton broke down in tears

Educating Yorkshire viewers were left in tears on Sunday evening after witnessing headmaster Mr Burton break down following a harrowing incident.

The devastating scenes played out after a pupil made threats against Mr Burton’s family and vowed to “burn down the school”.

Mr. Burton was subsequently told to return to his office, while the youngster was removed from the premises.

“You never know what kind of day you’re gonna have when you arrive,” the headmaster reflected. “You have your good days and you have your bad.

“Certainly, early in teaching, you go through those weeks or half terms when you think, ‘Oh, my goodness me, is there something easier you can do?”” reports Leeds Live.

He continued, “The minute that you think the job is easy, or you’ve got a really easy day in front of you, something will happen to change that.”

The programme then showed another teacher speaking to the youngster as he led him away from the school grounds, saying, “I can see you’re angry, mate, all right. I just want you to sit, that’s all I’m asking.”

A fellow staff member then informed Mr Burton he must head back to his office because of the menacing words directed at him. They said, “Threats to you, threats to your house, threats to burn the school down.”

Speaking to cameras, Mr Burton said, “The hardest things to deal with are when you feel as if you can’t be the advocate for the child that you want to be, and that’s heartbreaking.”

The headteacher was visibly emotional as he confided in a colleague, “C*** that, isn’t it? You just think of the kids.

“I know he’s going through a lot. his grief… but I have got three little’uns at home. You deal with it, don’t you? But threats to burn my house down.”

Fans took to social media to share their reactions, with one saying, “Nobody should be reduced to tears at work (coming from someone who cries at work most days.”

Another commented, “Comes to something when the headmaster starts crying.”

Viewers were also moved when Year 7 student Ismaeel won Year Rep..

“I’ve never been happier or more invested in someone I’ve never met before,” one viewer gushed.

“The next stop for Ismaael is No. 10,” another tweeted, while a third added with a crying face emoji, “Yes, Ismaeel.”

Another fan shared, “Him getting his fellow candidates an applause. So many people could learn a thing or two about kindness from this kid.

“In flipping tears here. That little boy is an inspiration. Bless him,” one fan enthused.

Educating Yorkshire is available to watch on All4.

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EastEnders’ Kellie Bright exposes heartbreaking fight to secure support for autistic son

Soap star Kellie Bright highlights the struggles parents face securing school support for autistic children in a poignant new BBC Panorama documentary

As EastEnders’ Linda Carter, actor Kellie Bright has faced heartbreak, grief and despair. However, no soap storyline could prepare her for the frustration, anxiety and heartache of trying to fight for her Autistic son’s education.

Kellie’s little boy has been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia but despite this, she has struggled to secure an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) for him, which would entitle him to extra support.

Now Kellie, 49, has filmed a documentary for Panorama examining the exhausting and expensive fight parents face just to get their children the right help at school.

Kellie tells cameras: “I’ve wanted to make a documentary about special needs for a really long time. I have a son, he is autistic, he has ADHD and he’s dyslexic. To try and get the support you need you have to fight every step of the way.

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“I hear from lots and lots of families how the system is broken, how things need to change so I want to shine a light on it, I want to speak to families who are suffering. I am very fortunate to be in a position because of my job that I do have a voice, I do have a platform and I want to use it.”

The government is in the process of reforming the Special Educational Needs system, which parents say is failing their children, despite it costing £12 billion every year. On Friday (3 Oct 25) The Institute for Fiscal Studies said the figure would rise by £3bn a year by 2029.

One in five pupils (1.7 million) in England get some kind of support for special educational needs in school at the moment, and councils are footing the cost. Many councils blame the rising costs of SEND support for debts that run into hundreds of millions of pounds.

The IFS is predicting that the proportion of pupils with EHCPs will rise even further in the next four years, to 8 per cent of all pupils aged four to 16. However, for many parents, like Kellie, getting an EHCP is a difficult and frustrating task.

Kellie says on the show: “When we tried for an EHCP for my son, we also ended up heading for a tribunal because the council refused to assess him. I have to say that left me feeling really angry. Then I felt frustrate,d and then I felt like I was letting my son down.”

After Kellie and her husband, Paul Stocker, started proceedings to take the local authority to a tribunal, they suddenly agreed to assess her son.

She was so emotional that she recorded her reaction on her Instagram account, telling followers, “I have just received an email to say they have agreed to assess my son. It has been 8 months of such hard work and perseverance and fighting to get to this point.”

Reflecting on the fight to get her son the help he needs in school, Kellie tells the documentary: “One of the main things is that as a parent you feel completely and utterly powerless. Powerless to move things forward, powerless to help your child, and because of that, it’s an extremely frustrating system to have to work with.”

Kellie meets lots of parents in a similar position. Many educate their children at home because local authorities are unable or unwilling to offer them a place that is appropriate for their needs. Parents with children out of school are often forced out of the workplace.

Kellie says: “More than half of parents of autistic children have had to take time off work to support their child.”

From the families Kellie meets, all are exhausted, tearful and feeling hopeless about their situations. Councils often force families to take them to tribunal to get EHCPs – even though 99 per cent of cases that reach tribunal are won by families.

One father, called Lee, tells Kellie he suspects his local council is trying to wear them out to avoid paying for help for their daughter, who is, at the time of the film, not in education.

Lee, whose daughter Charis is autistic, says, “I think there is a deliberate policy of fatigue because they know that not every parent will come back for appeal so they lose some. So now we are fighting against the local authority because we’re fighting for our daughter.

“But in battles people get hurt. So that deliberate and I think it is a deliberate policy of fatigue is hurting families and parents and it’s got to be better than that.”

Kellie goes to meet Georgia Gould who is the Minister of State at the Department of Education, as of last month. She tells Kellie: “I can’t give you all the details of all the different reforms we’re doing because we’ve got a process we’re working on with families.

“We want to honour that what I can tell you is we’re really dedicated to supporting children early to make sure there is accountability in the system.

“Within the reforms we’re not taking support away from families, we’re wanting to put more support in earlier where people have fought for support and that support is in place we want to make sure it continues,” she adds.

When Kellie tells her that parents have “high anxiety” about the reforms, Georgia insists the new system will still have a legal basis for support.

She promises Kellie: “There has to be a legal basis for parents to get support, but what we really want to work with parents on to get right is, where does that accountability happen? How can we get support in at the earliest possible point rather than having the battle?”

Kellie says only time will tell if the reforms, which are intended to save money while delivering the right support, will make things better or worse.

Kellie says, “All eyes are now on the government to see if its reforms can relieve the pressure on so many families.”

Panorama: Kellie Bright – Autism, School and Families on the Edge, Monday 6th October BBC1 at 8pm ( iPlayer from 6am)

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Idaho victim’s mom reveals heartbreaking decision family needed to make after Bryan Kohberger stabbed triplet to death

A DEVASTATED family ripped apart by the death of their beloved son in the Idaho murder tragedy was forced to quickly move on from unimaginable heartbreak in less than five months for the sake of their surviving children. 

Ethan Chapin, 20, was a triplet and one of Bryan Kohberger’s four victims in the sickening University of Idaho knife attack in November 2022.

Ethan Chapin and his mom Stacy Chapin posing for a family photo on a dock.

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The Chapins have vowed to move forward with their lives following the shocking murder of one of their triplet childrenCredit: Facebook/Stacy Chapin
Stacy Chapin and Ethan Chapin smiling.

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Stacy Chapin spoke to The U.S. Sun about dealing with the tragic murder of her beloved sonCredit: Facebook/Stacy Chapin
Bryan Kohberger in an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs during a sentencing hearing, flanked by two female lawyers and two male officers.

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Bryan Kohberger will die in jail following the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students in November 2022Credit: AP

Brave mom, Stacy, opened up her heart to The U.S. Sun at Crimecon last month about the nightmare of dealing with her beloved, fun-loving son being murdered with the world at his feet. 

She stressed that even though sick Kohberger will rot behind bars for the rest of his life after eventually pleading guilty to the savage killings of Ethan, Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves and Xana Kernodle, her family aren’t interested in the reasons why. 

But Stacy, who has thrown herself into vitally important advocacy work in the wake of her son’s shocking death, has revealed there was no time for her and husband Jim to wallow in misery. 

With Ethan’s brother and sister, Maizie and Hunter, who were on campus on that fateful evening, recently completing their own studies, the couple made the decision to somehow come to terms with the tragedy and move on for the sake of the remaining triplets’ future.

Read more on Bryan Kohberger

She says a heart-heart with Jim over a cup of morning coffee helped them realize that the best way forward was to “just get up and live life.”

They will never forget their beloved son, who they joked was minoring in Bud Light Lime and Taco Bell.

But with his brother and sister needing their parents more than ever to deal with the aftermath of Ethan’s senseless killing, Stacy and Jim vowed to honor his memory by ensuring Maizie and Hunter have their unconditional attention and support. 

“We just decided that you can lose yourself in grief, “ Stacy told The U.S. Sun.

“We had to do that for Ethan’s siblings. They didn’t deserve parents who had potentially gone in the tank or lost themselves. 

“We made a decision on a day in March of 2023 that we couldn’t change the outcome, and we had to still live our life and be great parents to Maizie and Hunter, giving them the best life they deserved.”

Shocking bodycam footage released in Idaho murders after Bryan Kohberger is sentenced

BRAVE FACE

The Chapin’s were the only family to abstain from attending Kohberger’s sentencing hearing earlier this summer.

They didn’t want to subject themselves to any more pain. 

Once the deranged Washington State graduate admitted to his heinous crimes, that at least removed the prospect of Ethan’s brother and sister having to take the stand and retrace the moments leading up to the sickening murders in a potential retrial.

Kohberger has never revealed why he cut short the lives of the four students. 

Stacy admits she won’t waste any time wondering why. 

The agony remains and will never leave her. Seeing her children recover from the nightmare and thrive, however, fills her and husband with hope.

“I would be lying if I didn’t say there are still tough moments,” Stacy continued. 

“But even now, every day feels like we’re a little bit closer to our new normal, whatever that looks like. Our kids are doing great. 

“They’ve also persevered in a way that amazes me as a mom. They were there that day. They all went to college together; they spent every second together.

“The fact that they went back to school and graduated and are now looking at their careers. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Kohberger avoided the death penalty upon pleading guilty on July 23 and was hit with four consecutive life sentences. 

The full details of Bryan Kohberger’s sentence

On July 23, 2025, Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Bryan Kohberger to the following:

  • Count 1: Burglary – 10 years fixed, zero years in determinate. $50,000 fine.
  • Count 2: First-degree murder of Madison Mogen: Fixed term of life in prison without the possibility of parole. $50,000 fine and civil penalty of $5,000 payable to the family of the victim.
  • Count 3: First-degree murder of Kaylee Goncalves: Fixed term of life in prison without the possibility of parole. $50,000 fine and civil penalty of $5,000 payable to the family of the victim.
  • Count 4: First-degree murder of Xana Kernodle: Fixed term of life in prison without the possibility of parole. $50,000 fine and civil penalty of $5,000 payable to the family of the victim.
  • Count 5: First-degree murder of Ethan Chapin: Fixed term of life in prison without the possibility of parole. $50,000 fine and civil penalty of $5,000 payable to the family of the victim.

The sentencings will run consecutively to one another.

ALWAYS REMEMBERED

While the Chapins stayed away from court, Ethan was on their mind. Stacy posted an emotional message on social media declaring her late son would “forever” be in their hearts.

His name will also shine on through Ethan’s Smile Foundation, which was established by the family to honor his memory. 

It aims to showcase “his love of life, people and new adventures” by providing scholarships for fellow students to “follow their dreams.”

“Ethan’s love for life was boundless. With a booming laugh and infectious smile, he spread joy to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Ethan was our storyteller, hard worker, and friend-maker,” Stacy and Jim declared on the foundation website.

‍“In the wake of his absence, the foundation was born—a tribute to Ethan’s unwavering passion for life. Our mission is simple yet profound: to carry forward the legacy of Ethan by providing scholarships that enable others to follow their dreams.

‍“In every corner we venture, in every heart we touch, we strive to keep the spirit of Ethan alive, reminding ourselves and others of the adventures and kindness that life has to offer.”

Stacy has also begun to foster a strong relationship with cutting-edge forensics company Othram, who helped accelerate the process of proving Kohberger’s guilt.

The Texas based specialists were able to extract DNA from the tan leather knife sheaf which was found in the room of Goncalves following the killings.

Investigators believe she was the first victim, with Kohberger leaving it behind after her friends came back to check on her wellbeing. 

“Myself and Jim are a team,” Stacy concluded. “To have closure means the world to us.”

Photo of University of Idaho victims Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin with two other people.

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Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin were all knifed to death by Kohberger on the university’s campus in Moscow, IdahoCredit: Instagram/kayleegoncalves

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Kelsey Parker recalls daughter’s heartbreaking words about Tom after Pheonix’s stillbirth

Kelsey Parker appeared on Loose Women this afternoon to speak about the process of grieving her stillborn son Phoenix, as she shared her daughter’s heartbreaking reaction

Kelsey Parker has revealed the heartbreaking comment her daughter Aurelia made when she broke the devastating news that baby Pheonix had died.

The podcast host and widow of The Wanted’s Tom Parker sadly announced her third child was born stillborn at 39 weeks in June. Kelsey looked forward to welcoming her first child with partner Will Lindsay, who she found love with two years after Tom’s tragic death from an inoperable brain tumor in 2022.

Kelsey Parker announced the happy news in January, but tragically, five months later, the 35-year-old broke the devastating news that the little boy who they had named Phoenix, was stillborn. She then took time away from both work and social media.

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The star appeared on Loose Women to talk about her grief during Tuesday’s episode, in which spoke about the heartbreaking moment she had to tell Aurelia, six, and Bodhi, four, that the family had experienced death again with their younger sibling.

“Time has been really tough,” she said. “Because Aurelia’s six, I wasn’t giving her the right answer to what she wanted. I said, ‘Pheonix has died and Pheonix is with daddy now.’

“And she was like, ‘I hate dad, why does dad keep taking everyone?’ So that wasn’t the right answer. Again, you’re trying to find out for your children, what’s the right way to navigate this?

“And I think with my little Bodhi, he’s been through so much. I was 35 weeks pregnant when Tom was diagnosed, he was only 18 months when Tom died. I’m his hero, so as long I’m okay, he’s okay. But with Aurelia, she’s beyond her years.”

Earlier this year, sitting down to speak with Christine Lampard on Lorraine for the first time since the devastating loss, Kelsey opened up on how she grief once again with her two little ones.

“It’s being honest. It’s telling them facts. Because I never want them to feel like I’ve not been honest and years later they say, ‘Oh but mum, you didn’t tell me this and you didn’t tell me that!'” she said.

“They’ve lost their dad, they know their dad’s with the angels now, so we told them, ‘Phoenix has gone with your daddy,'” Kelsey revealed she told her children as she shared the devastating news.

The star emphasised how important she felt it was to talk about grief, after she took time off social media to spend time with her family and allowing herself to grieve.

On this afternoon’s Loose Women, Kelsey explained how she went straight back to work following Tom’s tragic death, but this time, she made sure to take the time to grieve for herself.

“You need that moment for you. And I’ve listened to myself this time. I did rush back into work when Tom passed. But I listened to myself this time, and I’m actually proud that I took some time to sit with this.”

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Woman, 49, killed by falling tree branch is pictured as heartbreaking tributes paid to ‘beloved wife’

A WOMAN killed by a falling tree branch has been named and pictured as her family paid a heartbreaking tribute.

Jen Higgins, 49, died at the scene in Barlow Moor Road, Manchester, on August 30 following the freak incident.

Fallen tree blocking a road.

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The fallen tree branch in Barlow Moor Road last monthCredit: MEN Media

In a statement, Jen’s family said: “The family of Jen Higgins are heartbroken to confirm she lost her life in a sudden and tragic accident.

“She was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, and aunt – a vibrant and supportive friend to many; and a dynamic and widely respected member of the Manchester business community.

“You will no doubt empathise with the deep and profound shock we are feeling at this moment and ask for privacy while we grieve. A further statement will be issued when we feel able.”

Died at the scene

Emergency services rushed to the road following a call at around 7.15pm but Jen died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said at the time: “At around 7.15pm on Saturday, August 30, we were called to reports a tree had fallen onto a woman on Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury.

“Despite the best efforts of emergency workers, a woman in her 40s was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

“The death is not being treated as suspicious.”

A member of staff at Barlow Moor petrol station, who asked not to be named, described seeing the tree “snap” moments before the tragedy unfolded.

They said: “The tree just snapped, it was a big branch and just fell. A woman was walking underneath.

“The weather was a bit windy but not strong. A few locals came out and some of them were doctors so they were trying to help her.

“Then the ambulance came and police closed the road.

“It is a big tree and it was a massive branch that fell – blocking off all the road. It was two or three thick branches that fell at once.”

An inquest into Jen’s death is due to open at Manchester Coroners’ Court on September 23.

Photo of Jenn Higgins.

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Jen Higgins was killed by a falling tree branchCredit: Carousel PR

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Mum pays heartbreaking tribute to ‘beautiful little girl’, 7, who tragically died days after she was ‘running & dancing’

A GRIEVING mum has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her seven year-old-daughter who tragically died just days after she was seen “running and dancing.”

Tasmine Nichols, 28, has been left devastated following the death of her “beautiful and funny little girl.”

Bonnie Haydon’s family, from Plymouth, had to face the unimaginable and turn off their seven-year-old daughter’s life machine in August.

Tasmine explained that Bonnie had been in and out of Derriford Hospital since July.

Bonnie was diagnosed with asthma at a very young age but “had been doing fine over the years” until this year, according to her mum.

She was medicated for the asthma and had an inhaler, but was described as a happy child that was always full of energy.

The young girl was on her second admission on August 10 and was sent home, however, tragedy struck just 12 days later.

The concerned mother took her daughter straight back to hospital.

Tasmine explained that on August 25, Bonnie seemed full of life and was behaving like a normal, energetic seven-year-old.

She said: “She was running around the hospital playing, dancing and singing everything a child would do.

“But the next day she was placed into an induced coma in the early hours.”

Tasmine went on to tell PlymouthLive that at first she was told they were just going to sedate Bonnie, but soon after, she was informed that her daughter was going to be placed into a coma.

This was a coma that Bonnie would tragically never come out of.

She was later rushed to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children where Tasmine explained she was doing well, until 9am on August 27.

After being rushed in for a CT scan, Tasmine was delivered the devastating news that her daughter’s brain had no activity.

The following day, Bonnie was taken for an MRI where it was confirmed that the little girl had no brain activity at all.

In the early hours of August 29, the family had to face the unimaginable, and let Bonnie go.

In the wake of her death, family friend Charlie Wilkinson has set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to help support the family during this terrible time.

Charlie explained that Tasmine is facing every parent’s worst nightmare, planning a funeral for her child.

Writing on the fundraising page, Charlie said:  “Bonnie deserves the most beautiful and special send off and we want to help take that stress away so her family can focus on saying goodbye.

“Every single penny will go towards giving Bonnie the most stunning and special day, one that shows just how loved she was and always will be.

“She will forever be seven, forever loved, and forever missed.”

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BBC Radio fans fume ‘this is rubbish’ after beloved host bids heartbreaking farewell

Simon Logan has said an emotional goodbye to fans as his show came to an end

Simon Logan at the BBC Newcastle studios
Simon Logan’s show has ended(Image: Simon Logan)

BBC Radio‘s Simon Logan has bid a heartfelt farewell to his listeners as his show concludes after four years.

The star has presented an 80s and 90s show on BBC Radio Newcastle and BBC Radio Tees since 2021, but it has now wrapped.

A petition to keep him on the airwaves had been filed, but although more than 600 people signed it, the show has ended.

Bidding farewell to his listeners on Sunday, Simon said, “What is it they always say, all great things must come to an end.”

He went on: “Whether you’ve ever got in touch with the show or whether you have just listened to our show, thanks to everybody on our Facebook group.”

Simon Logan
The star told listeners that ‘all great things must come to an end’(Image: BBC)

“The time has come to say farewell, seriously, thanks for being there,” he said.

The DJ went on: “We’ve had a blast, haven’t we? Hope to catch you really soon. And whatever you’re doing tonight, always stay forever young. Ta-rah.”

The song that played out in his last broadcast on the show was Forever Young, by Alphaville.

Fans were sad to see the show end, with one saying: “This is a great show on Sunday afternoon and looks like it will get replaced with more than likely a load of BBC rubbish!”

Simon Logan
Fans had petitioned to keep Simon’s show on the airwaves(Image: BBC)

Somebody else sniped: “It’s disgraceful what’s happening to BBC local radio, the people making the decisions are clearly not proper radio peeps, probably fresh from uni with a degree in social media.”

One said it was a “huge loss to the BBC”.

Simon Logan is a rare jewel in the crown and had one of the most listened to shows on BBC Local Radio,” they added. It was a “Crazy decision by those in charge.”

Simon’s show will be replaced by a national show, All England, which will broadcast across the BBC’s 39 local radio stations at 2 pm. on Sundays.

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Desperate mum issues heartbreaking plea to find missing daughter, 36, last seen near quarry

A DESPERATE mum has issued a heartbreaking plea for her missing daughter to “please come home”.

Amy, 36, was last seen near Quarry View Garden Care in the village of Chinnor, Oxfordshire, at around 1pm on Saturday.

Photo of a young woman with long blonde hair.

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The 36-year-old regularly visits a quarry, police have said

She is known to regularly visit The Quarry in the area, with police urging members of the public to “call 999” if they see her, Oxford Mail reports.

In a fresh appeal to find her, mum Trixie Sophie said: “Ami please come home your family miss you your children.

“Miss you. You don’t need to tell anybody where you are. Just phone your mum.

“Wherever she is I will come and get her. She can come home to me.

“I won’t tell anybody, we just want you home safe my darling with your family.”

Amy has been described by police as a white woman, around 5ft 5ins tall, of a slim build and was last known to have blonde hare – though she frequently dyes it.

She also has three stars tattooed behind her left dear, a black out stop watch and a love heart tattoo on her wrist and fortune cookie tattoo on her ankle.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: “Have you seen Amy? She is 36-years-old and missing from Aylesbury.

“Amy was last seen at around 1pm on Saturday near Quarry View Garden Care in Chinnor.

“She is a white woman, around 5ft 5ins tall, of slim build and was last known to have blonde hair, though she frequently dyes it.

“Amy has three stars tattooed behind her left ear, a blacked out stop-watch and love heart tattoo on her wrist and a fortune cookie tattoo on her ankle.

“She is known to frequent The Quarry, Chinnor.

“If you see her, please call 999. If you have information on her whereabouts, please call 101 or make an online report, quoting 43250444275.”

Selfie of a blonde woman wearing an off-the-shoulder floral top.

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Amy, 36, has been missing since Saturday
Close-up of a woman wearing a light blue visor and a gray hoodie.

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Police have urged members of the public to call 999 as they continue to search

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Sheridan Smith fans ‘in tears’ at heartbreaking I Fought the Law scenes

Sheridan Smith is being praised for her powerful performance in I Fought the Law, a new ITV drama based on the real-life harrowing story of a Brit who fought for justice after her daughter’s murder

Sheridan Smith in I Fought the Law
Sheridan Smith moved viewers to tears with her performance in ITV’s I Fought the Law(Image: ITV)

Sheridan Smith has left viewers reaching for the tissues with her latest role in ITV ’s new drama I Fought the Law.

The four-part series, which started airing tonight (August 31), tells the harrowing true story of Ann Ming – the woman who changed an 800-year-old law in her fight for justice following the murder of her daughter Julie.

Smith, who has become the go-to star for bringing real-life figures to the screen in acclaimed dramas such as The C Word, The Moorside, Four Lives, Mrs Biggs and Cilla, is being called one of the best British actors in existence for her role in this show.

She gives viewers a glimpse of what Ann may have gone through from the moment Julie went missing in 1989 until the end of her 15 year campaign to overturn the ancient British double jeopardy rule that was keeping her daughter’s killer out of jail.

Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming, Daniel York Loh as Charlie Ming & Buddy Wingnall-Ho as Kevin Hogg in I Fought the Law
The drama is based on the true story of Ann Ming who campaigned for her daughter’s killer to be jailed(Image: ITV)

Audiences were stunned with the actresses’ portrayal of a parent’s worst nightmare in episode one as Ann fought with indifferent police after her daughter vanished, eventually resorting to chasing leads on her own before making the heartbreaking discovery of Julie’s body 80 days later.

One fan took to social media to share how touched they were by the performance, writing: “Just finished watching #IFoughtTheLaw Sheridan Smith utterly fantastic in the role of Ann Ming. I’m in bits tbh. What a wonderful achievement in changing the double jeopardy law to finally get justice for Julie.”

Another admitted: “Just binged every episode! Horrific crime. Disgusting policing. Outstanding woman. Sheridan is amazing as always. It’s a must watch. Cried my eyes out. Lots of love to Julie’s family.” A third chimed in: “This is so tense. You can feel the panic.”

The series is adapted from Ann’s memoir For the Love of Julie and written by Jamie Crichton (All Creatures Great and Small, The Last Kingdom).

Unlike a traditional whodunit, the show reveals the culprit early on, and spends most of its runtime on Ann’s long legal battle to overturn double jeopardy after her daughter’s killer was acquitted despite compelling DNA evidence.

Ann Ming’s campaign eventually led to the Criminal Justice Act 2003, which created an exception to the double jeopardy rule.

This paved the way for a retrial of William Dunlop, who had confessed to Julie’s murder. In 2006, he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Sheridan Smith was almost unrecognisable on screen after spending hours in the make-up chair every day ahead of playing Ann. Her costume included a wig that demonstrates her aging as the episodes progress and years of campaigning and grief take their toll on the mum.

The actress admitted that she barely recognised her own reflection during filming, explaining: “I couldn’t even see myself in the mirror. It just wasn’t me, and I didn’t see where I was. So it was a magic shoot.”

The star also said that playing such a weighty character came with a deep sense of responsibility. Smith told The Hollywood Reporter : “I felt such responsibility to do her story justice, because she’s trusted these guys to tell her story. At the end of the day, it’s her real life. It’s not just a TV show, it’s her life and her family, and it matters.”

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Inside BBC The Repair Shop’s heartbreaking restoration that left viewers in tears

The Repair Shop featured the case of grieving parents John and Margaret Ivin this week – but there was more to the tale than met the eye, and the fresh detail is tragic

John and Margaret
John and Margaret Ivin took to The Repair Shop crumbled bits of plaster that had special importance

A heartbreaking blog details a son’s brave journey with cancer – which this week led to an emotional restoration on BBC’s The Repair Shop which left viewers in tears.

Chris Ivin had written by hand a note on the wallpaper on his family home when he was 14 and, when this was discovered behind a cupboard when parents John and Margaret did some renovation work recently, they hoped to get it turned into a treasured memorial. This was because Chris since died following his battle with testicular cancer and his grieving mother and father were desperate for fresh mementos.

To their astonishment, the team on the BBC show was able to restore the crumbling pieces of plaster containing the message and able to frame it as a lasting tribute to Chris, who was a high-flying TV camera operator. Viewers were in tears during the programme this week but, since then, yet more poignant details around the tragedy have emerged.

A blog has come to light which, though dormant for years since Chris’ death in May 2012, detailed the man’s journey with the disease. He gave moving and often humorous accounts of the ups and downs of daily life with his parents and fiancée Inna – who he referred to as “The Russian” – at his side.

READ MORE: Brit dies on Greece holiday after GP said ‘don’t worry’ now family face £59k billREAD MORE: Dad thought he’d caught daughter’s nursery bug – but the truth was far more sinister

Chris Ivin, of London, was a talented camera operator and technician
Chris Ivin, of London, was a talented camera operator and technician

In one entry, Chris told how he had “still got my chin up” while adding: “It’s not all beer and skittles, this ‘being off work for way over a year’ thing. What I’ve got at the mo does have its drags, let me tell you. There are some very low days indeed.

“The Russian and I call them bad cancer days It’s very upsetting to be back on chemo after such a long time of recovery. I know I was told things were bad again back in Feb, hence the trip up north.

“It’s very sad to know that I’m back to not understanding my body and being very unpredictable about plans and seeing any of you guys.

“The worst was to come. After being released from hospital there were times I couldn’t even muster the coordination to walk or climb stairs. Help was required on a permanent basis either from the Russian or my mum and dad.”

The young man died in 2012 after a battle with cancer
The young man died in 2012 after a battle with cancer

Chris, who started his career as a camera assistant recording videos of live music performances including AC/DC and Tina Turner as well as for comedians Eddie Izzard and Lee Evans, was diagnosed with the rare form of testicular cancer in January 2011.

The media professional, from southeast London, underwent a series of gruelling treatments but died less than 18 months after his diagnosis on May 29, 2012. Among the treatment, Chris had experimental mistletoe therapy treatment in northern Scotland.

In another blog post, he wrote: “Every week I got a bit better but to be that reliant really took some getting used to. Eating, drinking, fetching the smallest things. Impossible. I really had to be waited on hand and foot. Sounds great? No way!.”

READ MORE: Dad stunned after son makes incredible discovery in pockets of £6 charity shop jacket

The team on The Repair Shop was able to carefully restore Chris' message
The team on The Repair Shop was able to carefully restore Chris’ message

Chris became a freelancer for the BBC, before landing a sought after job in Formula One providing coverage for broadcasters around the world. His blog also alluded to his illustrious career but later featured references to his dark days towards the end of his cancer battle.

And his dad left one of the final, devastating post in May 2012. Announcing the heartbreaking news of his death John wrote to followers: “For all those people that do not know that our beloved son, Chris ‘Milton’ passed away 13.26 this afternoon (29-05). He did not want to go, but when he did it was peacefully.”

John and Margaret, who are in their 70s, were overwhelmed with emotion when The Repair Shop team presented them with the restored message, complete with a tidy frame, in this week’s episode. Margaret gasped: “That’s amazing” at the treasure.

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Destination X fans ‘gutted’ as final three revealed in heartbreaking scenes

The finalists of BBC show Destination X have finally been revealed after a nail biting series, but who will be taking home the mouth watering prize money after tomorrow’s final?

After a nail biting semi-final, the final three of Destination X have final been revealed, and fans are heartbroken. The epic semi-final saw, Darren eliminated from the show at the final hurdle of the BBC show, fronted by Rob Brydon. Darren was booted out of the show after opting for Paris as his penultimate choice after a clue on the famous Mona Lisa. It was later revealed that the contestants were in Monaco.

However, the contestants marks weren’t final as they took part in a stick or twist challenge, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough for Darren to stay in the competition – as he was left in tears as he said goodbye.

Leaving the bus, Darren couldn’t get his words out as he began to choke up. “Well done Darren,” Saskia said in tears. “Listen, it’s been a privilege to get to know you all,” Darren said holding back the tears. “Jackie P, here I come,” as he left to cheers from the finalists.

READ MORE: Destination X’s Nick breaks silence after clashing with Saskia before exitREAD MORE: Destination X viewers ‘baffled’ as they spot ‘obvious clue’ contestants missed

Destination X finalists
The Destination X finalists have been revealed ahead of tomorrow night’s final(Image: BBC)

Now, just Josh, Saskia and Judith remain in the process, and one of them will walk away £100,000 richer. After weeks on the road, it all comes down to this – but it’s not going to be easy.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter after the finalists were revealed, one wrote: “The people’s hero has gone!” another disappointed fan wrote: “Nooooooo Darren!!” “Nooooo Darren out im so sad,” a third gutted fan wrote.

The final will see the competitors put to the test as old clues resurface, and old rivalries heating up. The BBC have confirmed a dramatic final ahead, as a monstrous first challenge will see some players given an advantage in the race to the final Destination X.

Josh, Saskia and Judith will face a nail-biting race around one of Europe’s most iconic cities – but the show has teased that “not everything you see can be believed.”

Despite Josh, Saskia and Judith all making it to the final, there were moments all three thought they’d be eliminated from the competition.

Daren on Destination X
Darren was eliminated from Destination X at the final hurdle (Image: BBC)

“In the second challenge, I really had no idea where I was,” Josh said. “I had to go completely off what other players were saying and ended up hedging my bets my ‘X’ right in the middle of two places that I had heard other players say, I was very lucky to have stayed in.”

As for Saskia, she thought she was a ‘goner’ right before the semi-final. “Definitely the moment right before the semi-final was when Josh and I had not seen the Pisa clue, we really had to put our heads together to try and work out where we thought the bus could be going,” she said.

“I was very grateful for him in that moment.” Judith on the other hand, was convinced she was going to be eliminated “all the time”.

“Honestly, all the time, literally, most of the time in that map room,” she laughed when asked. “I was just taking every challenge as it was coming and every map room as a challenge on its own. It was just about getting through and not being last so I just didn’t want to let my guard down too much.”

The three contestants will be battling it out tomorrow night – but who will take the crown?

The final of Destination X airs Thursday 28th August, 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

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Heartbreaking tributes paid to ‘beautiful’ woman, 21, killed in late night hit-and-run as cops make urgent appeal

Tributes have poured in to a “beautiful” 21-year-old woman killed in a horror, late-night crash outside a shopping centre.

Emergency services raced to Brassington Avenue in Sutton Coldfield on Friday night, after two women were struck by a car.

Memorial of photos and messages for a young woman.

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A huge wall of tributes to a woman who died in a car crash has appeared in the West MidlandsCredit: SWNS
Photo of Natasha, a 21-year-old hit-and-run victim.

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Natasha was sadly killed on Friday nightCredit: SWNS
Memorial with photos and flowers for a 21-year-old woman killed in a hit-and-run.

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Flowers have appeared at the wall which is based at the site of the crashCredit: SWNS

One victim was sadly pronounced dead at the scene shortly after midnight – despite the efforts of medics.

Although her full name hasn’t been released, the victim has been named locally as Natasha.

The other woman survived, though sustained a leg injury.

Meanwhile, two men were arrested by police on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

One suspect was released with no further action while the other was bailed with conditions while detectives continue to investigate.

A heartbreaking 25ft (7m) long shrine – featuring hundreds of tributes and flowers – has since appeared at the scene of the tragic smash.

One poignant note from her parents reads: “I hope you know how much you were loved. You will never know how much you are missed.

“Keep dancing my beautiful little girl. Love you forever, Mom, Dad, Georgia and Milo Xxxxxxxx woof lick.”

Another from her sister says: “Sis, Totally hilarious, kind and witty. You are one in a million. Party hard up there girly.

“We will love you and miss you forever. Until we meet again, G.”

Moment hero cop tackles knife-wielding yob who yanks at her hair in frantic broad-daylight brawl on high street

Another bouquet along the makeshift shrine, which also features dozens of photos of Natasha, added: “Beautiful inside and out. You will never be forgotten.”

One particularly poignant note from one of Natasha’s friends read: “My beautiful Tash, you were the best friend I could have ever wished for.

“You were so funny, caring and crazy. I’m so incredibly grateful for our time together. You changed my life.

“I will never ever forget you. I love you more than you’ll ever know.”

One tribute from her uncle and auntie, read: “To our darling Tish, we are broken. You will be with us forever.”

Officers from West Midlands Police are still appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the collision outside Gracechurch shopping centre to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “I would like to thank all those who have contacted us so far and all those that went to the aid of the two young women on the night.

“Our investigation is continuing, and we would particularly like to hear from anyone who saw the car involved, a silver Toyota Corolla immediately before the collision happened.

“If you have any CCTV from the surrounding area, you should get in touch with us to share what you know.

“This was a heartbreaking incident which has robbed a young woman of her life.

“Our officers are working with her family, who remain in our thoughts at this desperately sad time, and I would ask that their privacy is respected”.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log number 5911 of August 22 or email detectives directly at [email protected].

Photo of Natasha, a 21-year-old hit-and-run victim, with a friend.

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Many of the pictures show Natasha with friends and familyCredit: SWNS
Floral tributes and chalk messages at a roadside memorial.

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Hundreds of heartfelt tributes have been left at the wallCredit: SWNS
Handwritten tribute to Tash.

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Many people left notes addressed to NatashaCredit: SWNS
Tribute to Natasha, including a handwritten message and a photo.

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Several of the notes included heartwarming picturesCredit: SWNS
Floral tributes and photos at a memorial for Natasha.

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Police are appealing for more information about the crashCredit: SWNS

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BBC The Repair Shop’s Rob Fraser issues warning over ‘heartbreaking’ restoration

Rob Fraser, the heritage stonemason at BBC’s The Repair Shop, was tasked with a delicate restoration that required careful attention to detail, as he warned ‘this is not going to be easy’

Rob Fraser
BBC The Repair Shop expert says heartbreaking restoration is ‘not going to be easy’(Image: BBC)

The latest instalment of BBC’s The Repair Shop left viewers reaching for the tissues, as newcomer Rob Fraser was given the task of restoring an item with enormous sentimental value.

During Tuesday’s (August 26) episode, which recently saw one expert fret about their repair, heritage stonemason Rob Fraser was introduced to a couple, John and Margaret Ivin, who had brought along a fragment of plaster from their kitchen wall for restoration.

The damaged pieces of plaster bore writing on them, which prompted BBC favourite Dominic China to ask about its importance.

Margaret explained that during a kitchen refurbishment last summer, their builder had uncovered the message concealed behind one of the original cupboards. She said: “Where they’d taken one of the original cupboards off the wall, this was behind it and it was a complete shock to see it there.”

John and Margaret on The Repair Shop
John and Margaret had an important item with them that needed fixing(Image: BBC)

The message had been penned by their late son Christopher when he was approximately 14-years-old. It read: “This is original wallpaper. Friday 4:15 8th December 1989. Please leave this wallpaper, Chris.”

Margaret, clearly emotional, explained that Christopher frequently left messages for them. She then disclosed the devastating news that their son had tragically passed away from a rare form of testicular cancer when he was nearly 35.

She said: “It was 18 months from diagnosis to when he died. When you lose a child, you never get over it, you get through it and we’ve just got through it.”

Discovering their son’s handwriting once again on the plasterwork proved deeply emotional, and it became apparent that Rob was facing an enormously difficult task ahead.

Broken plaster
The broken plaster was found during their kitchen renovation(Image: BBC)

Taking a closer look at the damaged plaster, he said: “There’s so much going on, the paper is really fragmented, so that’s very risky. I’ll have to take my time, I might need some help.

“It’s not going to be easy. I need to get eyes on all these pieces and work out what condition each individual piece is in. I’m really nervous about handling this. This is gypsum plaster, which is very brittle.”

In the end, Rob successfully managed to restore the plasterwork and the time came to show John and Margaret the final result as the expert called upon two more specialists from the workshop to help.

When the big reveal happened, they were completely amazed as Margaret gasped: “That’s amazing.” Both were moved to tears as John could be spotted wiping his eyes.

Rob Fraser
BBC The Repair Shop expert says heartbreaking restoration is ‘not going to be easy’(Image: BBC)

She added: “What can I say? What can I say? It’s funny handwriting, he would be chuffed to bits to see that. I mean, he was what, 14? and he would’ve been 48 this year.”

John said: “He was a lovely boy, yeah.” Both thanked the experts for fixing the damaged plaster as they stressed how incredible it was.

The Repair Shop is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

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READ MORE: Shop Dani Dyer’s butter yellow midi dress as she announces Strictly news on The One Show



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EastEnders’ icon Cheryl Fergison, 59, reveals she’s been left unable to WALK after suffering heartbreaking stroke

EASTENDERS legend Cheryl Fergison has revealed she’s been left unable to walk following her stroke.

The actress was struck by the medical emergency in May which has left her walking with a stick.

Editorial use only Mandatory Credit: Photo by Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock (14468913e) Cheryl Fergison 'Loose Women' TV show, London, UK - 08 May 2024

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Actress Cheryl suffered a devastating stroke earlier this yearCredit: Shutterstock
EastEnders legend Cheryl Fergison reveals she’s in agony after A&E dash as she thanks medical staff, https://www.instagram.com/p/C5MJWYPocWx/?hl=es

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She described the medical emergency as ‘one of the lowest times in my life’Credit: Instagram
BBC<br />
**EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION UNTIL TUESDAY 26th APRIL 2011**<br />
Picture shows: Kev (BEN FRIMSTONE) Heather Trott (CHERYL FERGISON)<br />
TX: BBC One - Tuesday 3rd May 2011</p>
<p>Heather can t contain herself and rushes off in search of Kevin. When she eventually finds Kevin...<br />
Eastenders

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Cheryl is known for playing Heather Trott in EastEndersCredit: BBC

She told the Mirror: “You lose the ability to coordinate your hands, to walk properly, your balance is gone.

“It’s frustrating and makes you angry. But I’ve started to recover; I am coming on in leaps and bounds now.”

Recalling the terrifying experience, former EastEnders star Cheryl, 59, said: “I went to bed but couldn’t settle.

“When I got up in the night to go to the bathroom, my balance completely went and I had to stop myself from falling over. My whole right side felt numb, heavy and tingly.”

Cheryl admitted that her health battle has reminded her what’s really important in life.

She added: “Material things don’t matter; they can be lost or broken, but memories are everything. Friends, family and laughter – that’s all that matters.”

Cheryl, who shot to fame as Heather Trott in EastEnders, has been very open about her financial struggles since being axed from the soap in 2012.

Speaking to The Sun recently, she said: “Until I have steady work, I’m not rich or comfortable—I’m just surviving.

“I’ve been saying yes to everything for no money, but I need to start valuing my work and asking for fair pay. Even my agent insists on it.”

With no acting work, Cheryl turned to performing in a local Chinese restaurant to earn some cash.

Cheryl Fergison announces ‘return to the BBC’ after being axed and forced to work in a Chinese restaurant

She said: “I’ll never give in. I want to keep singing. If people criticise me for singing in small restaurants, so be it.

“At the end of the day, I’m an entertainer. Community has always been important to me, and I’ll perform no matter the crowd.

“If only two people show up, I don’t care—I’m still being paid, and I’ll still give it my all.”

What are the symptoms of stroke?

The FAST method – which stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – is the easiest way to remember the most common symptoms of stroke:

F = Face drooping – if one side of a person’s face is dropped or numb then ask them to smile, if it’s uneven then you should seek help.

A = Arm weakness – if one arm is weak or numb then you should ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downwards then you might need to get help

S = Speech difficulty – if a person’s speech is slurred then this could be a sign of a stroke

T = Time to call 999 – if a person has the signs above then you need to call 999 in the UK or 911 in the US for emergency care.

Other symptoms include:

  • sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
  • difficulty finding words
  • sudden blurred vision or loss of sight
  • sudden confusion, dizziness or unsteadiness
  • a sudden and severe headache
  • difficulty understanding what others are saying
  • difficulty swallowing



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BBC star Michael Ball supported by fans as he reveals the heartbreaking news that his mum has died

BBC star Michael Ball has been supported by fans after revealing the heartbreaking news that his mum has died. 

The star took to X to share a post of his mum, Ruth Parry Ball, to announce her passing. 

Michael Ball at the Chess press night after-party.

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BBC star Michael Ball has been supported by fans after revealing the heartbreaking news that his mum has diedCredit: Getty
Photo of Ruth Parry in a white suit and hat.

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The star took to X to share a post of his mum, Ruth Parry Ball, to announce her passingCredit: X

She looked in great spirits in the throwback photo, in an all white outfit with a wide brimmed hat on. 

Ruth died at the age of 91, and Michael penned to his followers: “Ruth Parry Ball1934-2025x” 

Fans flooded the comments with their condolences, as one person wrote: “Awww Michael I’m so so sorry.  Your heart must be broken.  I honestly know how you feel.  My Mum died on Tuesday and the tears has not stopped.” 

A second person said: “Michael I’m sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.” 

Read More on Michael Ball

A third commented: “What a beautiful photo. So sorry for your loss.” 

And someone else said: “So sorry to see this. God bless her and all who love her and will miss her.”

Michael shared a close bond with his mum, and would often post photos of her on social media. 

Last year, he spoke about how they’d celebrated her 90th birthday with a post of them all doing a zipline. 

He said: “We celebrated my dear mum’s 90th birthday this past weekend with a trip to Wales with the whole family. What did we get up to, I hear you ask – well we took a 90 year old on the fastest zipline in the world of course! Mx” 

The One show’s Alex Jones completely loses it as Michael Ball announces shock new career

Michael and his dear mum could be seen smiling away as they got ready to take the zipline on. 

The star has an English father, and his mum Ruth was Welsh.

Michael’s dad is Tony Ball, who was awarded an MBE for services to the industry. 

Meanwhile, Michael was appointed an OBE in 2015 for his services to musical theatre.

As a teenager Ball joined a youth theatre, then studied at Guildford School of Acting.

His first role was in Godspell in Aberystwyth, but he got his first major break in The Pirate of Penzance in Manchester.

He later went on to play Raoul in The Phantom Of The Opera before going on to represent the UK in the 1992 Eurovision Song Contest – where he finished in second place with the song One Step Out Of Time.

More recently, Michael has taken stage roles in shows like Hairspray and Sweeney Todd.

Michael Ball performing on stage.

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Michael shared a close bond with his mum, and would often post photos of her on social mediaCredit: Getty
Michael Ball OBE with two women in Zip World harnesses.

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They went zip lining for her 91st birthdayCredit: Instagram

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Heartbreaking tributes paid to ‘amazing’ mum & ‘role model’ who died after getting into difficulty in reservoir

HEARTBROKEN friends and family have paid tribute to an “amazing” mum-of-three who tragically died after getting into difficulty at a reservoir.

The body of 33-year-old Kimberley Johnson, known as Kim, was pulled from Strinesdale Reservoir near Oldham on Sunday, August 17.

Portrait of a young woman with red hair.

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The local community has been left heartbroken, with tributes flooding in for Kim
Wooden footbridge over stream at Strinesdale Reservoir.

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Strinesdale Reservoir is a popular beauty spot — but locals warn its waters can be dangerousCredit: Google Maps

Emergency services rushed to the beauty spot on the A62 between Oldham and Delph after reports of a woman struggling in the water at around 4pm.

Police sealed off the area while fire crews, paramedics and the specialist water rescue unit battled to find her.

Despite desperate efforts, Kim was confirmed dead shortly after being recovered from the water at 6.25pm.

Greater Manchester Police said there are no suspicious circumstances. A spokesperson confirmed: “Emergency services responded to an incident at Strinesdale Reservoir at around 4:50pm yesterday after reports of a woman getting into difficulty in the water.

“Sadly, the body of a woman was recovered.

“There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.”

The tragedy has rocked the local community, with tributes pouring in for the young mum, who was described as kind, soft-spoken and full of life.

Her close friend Tanya Kennedy told how Kim “always lit up every room” and had been a constant source of support and inspiration to those around her.

Tanya said: “Kim was such an amazing woman, she took me in when I was younger and from there she always treated me like a sister.

“I really wish I could speak to her one last time.

“I absolutely adore Kim and she has been a big role model for me, walking around Rochdale or even sitting at the canal messing about.

“Kim was a really important person to me and I regret not messaging her more or seeing her more often.

“She was one of those people who would tell you as it is but also the most kind hearted, soft spoken person I’ve ever met.

Woman’s body pulled from lake in middle of day after emergency crews swooped on scene

“I am really going to miss Kim, always lighting up every room she walked into.

“My thoughts and prayers are all to the family at this time. Rest in peace babe.”

Friends have since gathered online to share their grief, describing her as “one of a kind” and “taken far too soon”.

In another tribute, Curtis King wrote: “R.I.P Kim Louise Johnson my love and thoughts go out to all your family. A beautiful soul lost way too young.”

Residents in Oldham said the reservoir is a popular walking spot but warned the waters can be treacherous.

One local said: “It’s heartbreaking to hear someone has lost their life there. It looks calm on the surface but it can be dangerous.”

Kim leaves behind her three children, who friends say were the “centre of her world”.

Those who knew her best said she was a devoted mum who worked hard to give her family the best life possible.

The tragedy has sparked fresh warnings about the dangers of swimming in open water, especially during the summer months.

Experts say hidden currents, sudden drops and freezing temperatures can all pose a risk.

Strinesdale Reservoir rescue operation.

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A rescue operation is underwayCredit: Google Maps

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