king charles

Beckham feud reignited as Brooklyn fails to post about David’s knighthood

THE ongoing Beckham feud has been reignited after Brooklyn failed to post anything about his dad David’s knighthood.

Today Sir David, 50, was awarded his long awaited knighthood by King Charles at Windsor Castle in front of his famous family – but his eldest son was nowhere to be seen.

David Beckham was awarded a knighthood for services to sport and charity todayCredit: PA
The whole family were there to support David, but Brooklyn was nowhere to be seenCredit: romeobeckham/Instagram
David’s son Brooklyn is yet to congratulate dad David on his knighthoodCredit: Getty
Brooklyn and his wife Nicole have reportedly ‘quit’ the Beckham familyCredit: Getty

David’s wife – the newly appointed Lady Victoria – and parents Ted and Sandra Beckham watched on proudly as he received the coveted honour.

Joining them were his three other children, Romeo , 23, Cruz, 20, and Harper, 14.

The ex-England and Manchester United star was knighted by King Charles for his services to sport and charity.

However, during what Becks called the “proudest moment of his life”, his first born was nowhere to be seen.

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CONGRATS, SIR

Victoria and kids congratulate Becks on knighthood but Brooklyn stays silent


ROW BREWING

Brooklyn Beckham locked in fresh feud weeks after family clash revealed

Brooklyn is also yet to acknowledge his dad’s huge achievement on social media.

Both Romeo and Cruz have posted pictures from the historical ceremony today.

Romeo even wrote next to his picture of his family at Windsor Castle: “No one deserves this more than you, love you so much. Congrats Sir dad.”

But their big brother Brooklyn has remained completely silent.

It should be noted that he is living in LA, so with the time difference he may not have had chance to write a message of support yet.

It comes as David’s eldest child is believed to have “quit” the famous family this year following rising tension.

The Beckham family feud is understood to have actually started four years ago, when Brooklyn’s wife Nicola Peltz, 30, refused to wear a wedding dress designed by Victoria.

Tensions then became public when Brooklyn did not publicly acknowledge fashion designer Victoria on Mother’s Day. He then failed to show at any of David’s 50th birthday parties.

Meanwhile, Becks put the feud behind him today to receive the biggest honour of career and become Sir David Beckham.

It marks the end of an agonising wait for the charity ambassador, who was first put forward for a knighthood in 2011.

Sir David was made a Knight Bachelor by King CharlesCredit: Getty

In a lengthy Instagram post he said: “I can’t even begin to describe what a special day it is for me today, a boy born in East London, to receive a Knighthood from His Majesty The King. I am truly humbled and so grateful for this honour.”

Sir David then went onto reveal just how much the honour meant to him.

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“All I have ever wanted to do is to make my family proud.” the star gushed.

Becks then added a sweet message to his four kids, and wrote: “To my beautiful children who I am so proud of and I know this is a proud and inspiring day for them as well, they are our greatest joy in life and my inspiration every single day. I love you all so much…”

Sir David proudly shows off his knighthood alongside Lady Victoria and his parentsCredit: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire

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First look at the new British passport design being rolled out this year

NEW British passport designs with King Charles’ updated Coat of Arms are to be rolled out this year.

From December, the new Coat of Arms will replace the current Queen Elizabeth II version.

Open British passport with King Charles III's Coat of Arms and an example photo and text.

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The new Prince Charles Coat of Arms is being rolled out on passportsCredit: Home Office
Opened British passport showing the identity page with a woman's photo and the visa pages with holographic features.

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It will be the “most secure British passport in history”Credit: Home Office

The design features four UNESCO-protected landscapes of each UK region.

This includes Ben Nevis (Scotland), Lake District (England), Three Cliffs Bay (Wales) and Giant’s Causeway (Ireland).

The new passport will also have new technology built into them with improved anti-forgery designs.

This includes upgraded holographs and translucent features within the pages, making them harder to forge or tamper with.

Each page will also have a unique passport number built in using laser marking.

The UK government claim this makes it the “most secure British passport ever made”.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Mike Tapp said: “The introduction of His Majesty’s Arms, iconic landscapes, and enhanced security features marks a new era in the history of the British passport.   

“It also demonstrates our commitment to outstanding public service – celebrating British heritage while ensuring our passports remain among the most secure and trusted in the world for years to come.”

Blue passports with the current Coat of Arms of Queen Elizabeth II are still valid until the expiry date.

The modern-style of British passport was first introduced in 1915, which were also navy.

URGENT: UK Passport Price Increase – Apply Now!

The then were changed to burgundy in line with the EU, before the current navy passports were rolled back out in 2020.

Parts of the passport have already been updated, including saying they are authorised by “His Majesty’s Passport Office”.

Despite this, millions of Brits still have the previous burgundy passports.

These are still permitted for use until they expire.

British passport featuring King Charles III's Coat of Arms.

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New technology will make them harder to forgeCredit: Home Office

But there are new rules in place that were introduced when the UK left the EU.

Since Brexit, any additional months on top of the 10 year validity of passports are no longer accepted.

This has resulted in thousands of families being banned from their flights due to new rules since they were first issued.

Families are urged to check that their expiry date matches their start date.

If it does not, then you should disregard the expiry and instead add on 10 years to the start date to find the correct date it expires.

Here are the other passport rules you need to be aware of.

Illustration of a British passport page featuring images of the Giant's Causeway with a map of the area and an open book.

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Each page will have a unique number of itCredit: Home Office

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Prince William steps into the Doctor Who Tardis during behind the scenes tour ahead of new BBC series

PRINCE William has been seen boarding Doctor Who’s Tardis.

The future king stepped into the iconic time travel device during a studio visit – though he’s not making a surprise switch to acting or pursuing adventures through time.

The Prince of Wales in the Dr Who Tardis.

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The Prince of Wales in the Dr Who Tardis during a visit to Bad Wolf Studios in CardiffCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
The Prince of Wales entering the Dr Who Tardis.

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The royal stepped onto the set last monthCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Prince William in the Doctor Who TARDIS set at Bad Wolf Studios.

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The future king ponders the control panelCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace

The Prince of Wales, 43, was a special guest at the Bad Wolf Studios in Cardiff which produces the BBC sci-fi show.

Wills was given a tour around the set of the upcoming Beeb series The Other Bennet Sister by studio chief Jane Tranter – which included a look around the Tardis police phone box.

In a series of posts on The Prince and Princess of Wales X account today, the royal was seen in a video entering the famous set and posing near the control panel.

It said: “From period pieces to all of time and space, both the BAFTA bursary and @BadWolf_TV are inspiring the next generation of creative talent.”

Wills was following somewhat in his dad’s footsteps after King Charles was snapped in 2017 entering a replica Tardis during a visit to Worq co-working space for young entrepreneurs in Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.

The royal was introduced to trainees who have come through Bad Wolf’s Screen Alliance Wales (SAW) training initiative and built careers in TV by scheme boss Allison Dowzell.

They were recipients of The Prince William Bafta Bursary programme.

Tranter said: “It was a complete joy to show Prince William around Bad Wolf.

“We are so incredibly proud of the outreach work being done by Allison Dowzell and the team at Screen Alliance Wales, and for Prince William to help highlight the work being done at the studios means a great deal.

“He was introduced to trainees from a wide range of departments, and it was fantastic to see him take such an interest in the new generation of TV creatives.

Moment Prince William zooms around Windsor Castle grounds on e-scooter as he appears in new travel show

“We are so proud that many of the SAW trainees have gone on to be awarded Prince William Bafta bursaries, and His Royal Highness was fascinated to hear how each of the trainees was using their bursary to further their careers.”

The visit on September 10 came as part of the studios’ 10th anniversary, and came on the day William visited the Jac Lewis Foundation centre at the city’s Principality Stadium to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

During the engagement, William also met schoolchildren from St Albans RC Primary School in Tremorfa, Cardiff, during a puppetry workshop held by SAW education and training executive Sarah O’Keefe.

The puppets were used to represent characters’ daemons in the BBC series His Dark Materials and the workshop aimed to introduce children to the TV industry.

SAW has arranged 3,772 studio visits, including classroom lessons, since its inception, and created 149 paid traineeships on Welsh TV productions including Industry, Doctor Who and The Other Bennet Sister.

The Prince of Wales in the Dr Who Tardis during a visit to Bad Wolf Studios.

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Wills met with studio chiefs and traineesCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Prince William stands with recipients of the Prince William Bursary at Bad Wolf Studios.

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The royal met members of Bad Wolf’s Screen Alliance Wales (SAW) training initiativeCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
The Prince of Wales speaks to a group of people at Bad Wolf Studios.

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He was happy to chat with trainees and other staffCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace
Ncuti Gatwa as The Doctor and Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday standing in front of a TARDIS in the snow.

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Ncuti Gatwa, who recently stepped down as the Doctor, and Millie Gibson as his companion Ruby SundayCredit: BBC
Prince Charles emerging from a blue door shaped like the TARDIS from Doctor Who.

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King Charles enters through a door shaped in the style of Dr Who’s Tardis during his visit to Malaysia in 2017Credit: Yui Mok

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Prince Harry and Meghan royally skewered in new Spitting Image spin-off with these latex lookalikes

A BALDING Prince Harry puppet is all ears in the new Spitting Image spin-off, The Rest is Bullsh*t.

Latex lookalikes of the Duke of Sussex and wife Meghan were royally skewered in the episode, available on YouTube from last night.

Illustration of a puppet resembling Prince Harry, wearing a grey zip-up top over a pink t-shirt.

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A balding Prince Harry puppet featured in the new Spitting Image spin-off, The Rest is Bullsh*t
A puppet version of the Duchess of Sussex with a wide smile, wearing an apron, and holding a bowl of colorful flowers.

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A latex lookalike of wife Meghan was also on the showCredit: PA
Illustration of Spitting Image puppets of Donald Trump and King Charles III, with Trump wearing a bib with chips and Charles holding a hamburger.

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US President Donald Trump could be seen offering King Charles a burgerCredit: PA

Harry was seen cashing in on podcasting, saying he would “make a sh*t-ton of money”.

And US President Donald Trump — in a baby’s bib — also featured beside the King, following this week’s State Banquet.

Comedians Al Murray and Matt Forde are behind the online spin-off of the TV satire, which was a must-watch in the 1980s and ’90s.

Earlier this week we revealed how Trump took a subtle swipe at Prince Harry in his speech at the state banquet.

READ MORE ON PRINCE HARRY

Speaking before the esteemed dignitaries, the President heaped praise on the King and the Royal family.

“This is truly one of the highest honours of my life, I have such respect for you and such respect for your country for many decades,” he said.

Trump added that King Charles had preserved “the glorious and unique character of this kingdom”.

But for all the showering of compliments on the Crown, the President’s comments have also been interpreted as an off-handed dig at Prince Harry.

When praising Prince William, Trump said that the King had raised a “remarkable son”.

This comment seemed to ignore Charles’ second son Prince Harry, who has stepped back from his Royal duties to lead a new life in America.

Trump takes thinly veiled swipe at Harry after praising William as King’s ‘remarkable son’ in state banquet speech
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stand side-by-side.

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Harry and Meghan were royally skewered on the showCredit: Splash
Illustration of a Taylor Swift puppet with exaggerated features, wearing a sparkly blue top and iridescent pink sleeves, raising a finger.

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Superstar Taylor Swift was given a less than flattering likenessCredit: PA
Illustration of a person wearing a blue plaid shirt and denim overalls, with an exaggerated angry expression, looking up and to the right, and holding one hand to their chest and the other raised.

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Vice President JD Vance’s lookalike was sporting a pair of dungarees
Caricature of Kim Jong-un wearing a suit and holding a lit cigarette, with his mouth open in laughter.

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Supreme Leader of North Korea Kim Jong Un’s latex lookalike puffs on a cigarette
Spitting Image puppet of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer didn’t manage to avoid an unflattering portrayalCredit: PA
Spitting Image puppet of Ariana Grande wearing a tiara and a pink ruffled shirt.

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Pop singer Ariana Grande was given oversized lips and a tiara in her Spitting Image lookalikeCredit: PA

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Desperate Harry needs King’s stardust to stay relevant – he doesn’t care about privacy & Royals are furious, expert says

PRINCE Harry is desperate and needing stardust from King Charles in order to stay relevant, even if it means sacrificing his privacy, a royal expert has claimed.

The Duke of Sussex, 41, briefly met with his father, for the first time in 19 months, during his visit to the UK last week.

Prince Harry attending the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

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Prince William is desperate to hold onto King Charles’ stardust, a royal expert has claimedCredit: Getty
King Charles III, wearing a gray suit and a red tie, arrives to officially open Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.

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Harry met the King last week – their first face-to-face meeting in more than a year and a halfCredit: AP
King Charles III and Prince Harry walking together.

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Harry’s relationship with the royal family has left many of the Firm ‘very angry’ with him, the expert addedCredit: Splash

Their meeting, lasting just under an hour, was followed up by an interview where Harry said his priority this year was to “focus on my dad”.

However, Royal Expert and Biographer Ingrid Seward has said that Harry’s move was just a “PR stunt” as he “needs the King’s stardust” in order to stay relevant.

She told The Sun: “I think it’s a massive PR move to re-establish Harry in the hearts of the British people.

“Harry needs the stardust of his father. He needs people to see him as the son of a king.

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“His earning power is related to who he is. Without being the royal he is, Harry would not be interested to anyone in California.

“But because he is the son of a king, and the brother of an heir to the throne, he is of great interest and he needs that connection.”

Ingrid explained that since Harry “makes his money in America”, through his Netflix deals and other ventures, he would need to keep his image strong there.

She said the view of a “split” family did not sit well with audiences in the US, and so this decision would help mend that image and keep him relevant.

Ingrid continued: “This is a big, big PR push, and Harry was finally all smiles and charm, reminiscent of himself of old.”

Turning to Harry’s statement that his “conscience was clear”, in regards to the publication of his controversial memoir Spare, Ingrid said: “I’m not sure that Harry knows what a clear conscience is.

Prince Harry’s rift with royals is FAR from over – William will hate that he met the King

“You don’t badmouth your family in print and then have a clear conscience.

“Whether what he was saying was true or not, you just don’t do that.”

Ingrid added: “And it has far-reaching consequences, as it has had with Harry.

“But Harry obviously wants to wipe the slate clean, but people’s memories are a little bit longer than that, and I think a lot of the royal family are still very angry, and I suspect that Charles isn’t particularly happy with his son.

“But to him, it’s more important to welcome Harry, if not back into the family, at least back into his own, you know, personal fold, because at least Charles can then keep an eye on what he’s doing as well.”

HARRY’S BRIEF MEETING WITH CHARLES

This comes after Harry spoke out after briefly meeting King Charles during his visit.

The meeting, a “private tea” between the two, lasted 55 minutes – almost double the time Harry got last year.

And when quizzed on the possibility of further meetings with the King, Harry said: “The focus really has to be on my dad”.

He also leapt to the defence of his controversial memoir, Spare, claiming his “conscience is clear”.

Speaking to The Guardian, the Duke said: “I know that (speaking out) annoys some people and it goes against the narrative.

“It was a series of corrections to stories already out there. One point of view had been put out and it needed to be corrected.

“It was a difficult message, but I did it in the best way possible. My conscience is clear. It is not about revenge, it is about accountability.”

After his four-day trip, a spokesperson for Harry told how he “loved catching up with old friends” and colleagues.

Harry also admitted he wants to spend more time in the country.

When asked if he would bring his children, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four, he responded: “This week has definitely brought that closer.”

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Harry is always fishing for anti-royal fodder for next tell-all book – Charles won’t let him back in fold, expert slams

KING Charles is unlikely to let Harry back into the royal fold should the pair meet in London this week, a royal expert has claimed.

The Royal Family can’t trust the Duke of Sussex for fear anything they say will be used in his next tell all, historian Hugo Vickers said.

Prince Harry taking a selfie with fans.

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Prince Harry has returned to the UK for the first time in months, but a royal expert says that his return will be met with ‘suspicion’Credit: Getty
Prince William speaking to a group of young people.

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Harry was heard joking about his ‘challenging’ relationship with Prince WilliamCredit: Reuters
An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Hugo Vickers at the Blenheim Palace Literary Festival

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Royal expert Hugo Vickers says that the Royal Family can’t ‘trust’ Harry anymoreCredit: Rex Features

Harry jetted into the UK yesterday, on the three-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

While Harry visited his grandmother’s grave, the Prince and Princess of Wales were hosting an event in the late Queen’s honour just eight miles away.

And the King is set to return to London from his Scottish break this week while Harry is in the UK – sparking speculation the two could meet.

However, Hugo Vickers – a royal expert and the author of several bestselling royal autobiographies – says Charles should tread carefully.

He says that the Royal Family “doesn’t trust” Harry anymore, after the Prince gave out personal “information” about them in his autobiography Spare.

Faced with the prospect of a second bombshell book, the family remembers how Harry caused “a lot of harm”.

Now, the Royal Family has to “tread very carefully” with the Prince.

Harry made headlines yesterday, when he was heard joking about the “challenging” relationship between siblings at a glitzy charity bash.

When he met Declan Bitmead – the 17-year-old winner of the inspirational young person 15-28 years award – Harry asked the youngster about his brother.

The Prince asked: “Does he drive you mad?

Could Prince Harry be ready to finally talk to King? Wayward Royal is set to return to UK

When Declan replied “no, we get on fine” Harry replied “you know what – siblings”.

And when told his brother went to the same school, Harry said: “You’re at the same school, that sometimes makes it more challenging.”

Hugo says that the strained relationship between the Prince and his brother, as well as with his father, can’t be repaired until he makes a big admission.

The expert says that, in order to get back in with the Royals, Harry will need to “apologise”.

Hugo said: “It would be in his, and everybody else’s, interests if somehow he could form some sort of personal reconciliation with his father.

“Because, we know even from Prince Harry’s book that his father said: ‘Don’t make my last years miserable.’

“And if something happens to the King and Prince Harry has not reconciled with him, then he’s going to be bearing more sort of guilt and remorse and things.

“And he’s got enough on his plate already with the death of his mother and the things that he feels about all that.

Prince Harry clapping enthusiastically at a live performance.

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Prince Harry has previously expressed a wish to return to the UK moreCredit: AFP
Prince William speaking with young people at Spiral Skills.

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However, Hugo thinks he needs to apologise to William and Charles firstCredit: Getty

“So in order for that to happen, he is the one who has to apologise. He is the one who has to give assurances.”

Harry’s current visit – set to last for four days – will be his longest since Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022.

The Prince previously lost his battle with the Home Office over the level of security he will be granted during visits to the UK.

That court battle reportedly cost Harry a staggering £1 million.

During the Prince’s current visit, King Charles III jetted back to London from his Scottish break.

The King had been in Balmoral for a month, with his return fuelling speculation that the pair could reunite after not seeing each other for 19 months.

However, Hugo says that there will always be “suspicion” over Harry’s return trips to the UK.

He said: “I suppose the suspicion is that, if he comes over here, he is sort of almost reestablishing himself as a member of the royal family.”

Hugo added: “But in the days when he was right in the middle of it and doing things, he was a very hardworking and successful member of the family.

“You know, putting in his bit for the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and all the things that he does.

“And, he was wearing fine uniforms and he looked like a prince.

“Latterly, of course, he’s just a guy in jeans with a backpack on his back.”

Now, Hugo says Harry can be seen “loitering in the background of one of Meghan Markle’s cooking sprees”.

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, meeting with members of the National Federation of Women's Institute.

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He marked the third anniversary of his grandmother’s, the late Queen Elizabeth II, death just eight miles away from where his brother was commemorating herCredit: AFP
Prince Harry speaking with a young award recipient and their family at the WellChild Awards.

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Yesterday, Harry attended an award ceremony for inspirational young peopleCredit: PA

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My quick & easy plant combinations will transform your outside space through the year, says TV Gardener

WE’VE all done it.

Spotting a plant you think will look amazing in your garden – rushing out to buy it – and then realising that on its own it suddenly looks, well, a bit naff.

Man and black dog sitting in tall grass.

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Jamie Butterworth’s new book aims to give you perfect plant combinationsCredit: Dorling Kindersley/ Rachel Warne
Book cover for "What Grows Together" by Jamie Butterworth.

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What Grows Together is out on September 11

But happily, a new book by Jamie Butterworth could be about to banish the embarrassment of a badly put together garden for good.

‘What Grows Together’ – which comes out next weekend – offers up over 60 ‘fail safe plant combinations for every garden’ with no confusing horticultural jargon or lecturing.

You may recognise Jamie from his RHS Show Feature Dog Garden at Chelsea Flower Show this year – which he created alongside Monty Don and DJ Jo Whiley.

He’s appeared many times on Gardeners World, and cites Monty Don as the gardener who inspired him to get into horticulture.

His nursery Form Plants also supplies plants to Windsor Castle – and when he met King Charles at Chelsea Flower Show, the King said: ‘I know Jamie — you are delivering plants to me on Wednesday. Please don’t be late.’”

But it was another famous Jamie that actually inspired his book.
“I love cooking, but I never know what ingredients to put together as to what will taste nice,” he told Sun gardening.

“But when I came across Jamie Oliver’s Five Ingredients Book – where he just goes – take these ingredients and do this and this is what you’ll get, it was just brilliant. It was exactly what I needed.

“I just thought – we need to do this for gardening. We’ve even laid it out like a recipe book – in terms of making it look really crisp and simple – it’s like no other gardening book that’s ever been written.

“There’s so much synergy between cooking and gardening – people want to garden, they want to have nice gardens but they’re time poor and they don’t know what to plant that will a. Survive and b. look good, and that was the starting premise of the book.

“We’re forever learning with plants – my particular passion is growing plants, putting them together and making nice displays – it’s how I like to make people happy.

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“It’s about getting rid of the old gardening rules – the ‘you must do this, you must do that, you must plant carrots at this exact time or everything will fail.

“What I wanted to do was make growing more accessible – there is no right way – but learning even just a few combinations and what will grow well together – then that gives people confidence to have a go themselves.”

“Jamie’s an idol of mine – and I want to make gardening as accessible as he did for cooking.

“You pay garden designers hundreds of pounds to tell you where to put plants – hopefully this book will negate all of that and give people the accessibility they need to go ‘oh actually this is what I need to do’ and it’s that simple.”

JAMIES’ FAVOURITE COMBINATIONS

COMBINATION ONE
Hydrangeas Limelight and Agastache Blackadder – both plants individually are brilliant and will flower for a long long time each – Hydrangeas from June to Autumn and even once they’ve finished flowering they’ll hold their seed heads and look great in the winter. Agastache Blackadder is a perennial and has dark purple liquorice flowers and if you plant the two together the darkness of the Agastache looks brilliant against the white of the hydrangea – but will also grow up through it. If you want to add to it – just add in some yellow Cosmos.

COMBINATION 2
Calycanthus ‘Aphrodite’, Japanese Forest Grass, Penstemon ‘Pensham Plum Jerkum’
Calycanthus has really rich ruby wine red flowers which look stunning in their own right. It flowers from late May through to September/October, leg it up by taking off lower branches – then you’ve got a specimen rather than just a shrub – and underplant with Hakonechloa Macra – AKA Japanese forest grass and the Penstemon with dark rich ruby colour flowers the same as the calycanthus. Individually they’re great plants – but put together that’s an incredible combination.

 What Grows Together: Fail-safe Plant Combinations for Every Garden by Jamie Butterworth (11 September, DK)

Also in Veronica’s Column this week…

News, top tips, Plant of the Week and a competition to win two hedge trimmers

NEWS! Catherine’s Rose is finally available to buy on the high street – with B&Q taking the honours as the main bricks and mortar stockist.
Named after HRH Princess Kate, and launching in store at the end of this month, funds from every sale will go to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
The pink ‘Catherine’s Rose’, which is scented, was developed by Harkness Roses – and in May we ran a competition for Sun Readers to become the first in the world to own a rose.
Now everyone can get one from their local B&Q..
The RHS and Harkness joined forces with Kate after she underwent a “very spiritual and very intense emotional reconnection” with nature after undergoing treatment for cancer.
The princess announced in January she was in remission after completing a course of preventative chemotherapy.

WIN! WIn one of two Webb ECO 20V 15cm Cordless Mini Chainsaw/Pruning Saws with Telescopic Pole Reach PLUS battery – worth £124.99 each. To enter visit www.thesun.co.uk/WebbPruner or write to
Sun Webb Pruner competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. September 20, 2025. T&Cs apply

PLANT OF THE WEEK! Heuchera Berry Timeless is evergreen and will still be sending up sprays of pale pink flowers well into September. It’s heat resistant and hardy – and doesn’t seem fussy about soil or shade or too much sun.

JOB OF THE WEEK! You can start with your onion sets now – to overwinter and get a bountiful crop next year. Red Winter is a great one to get in the ground. Potatoes and raspberries are ready to harvest and sweetpeas can be sown under cover.

TOP TIP! IF you fancy growing your own salad leaves over Winter – now is the time to start.
Lambs Lettuce is very hardy and perfect for Winter Gardens. Get the seeds in the soil now – either in pockets you know are milder – or in a cold frame.
The best thing about sowing rocket is that you’ll get your first crop with four to six weeks – and it also thrives in cooler temperatures.
If you plant Arctic Spring butterhead lettuce now – you’ll get a crop early next year. But also keep an eye out in garden centres, as they often sell a ‘Winter Mix’. Sarah Raven currently has one that includes ‘Can Can’, ‘Salad Bowl’ and ‘Merveille de Quatre Saisons.’

NEWS! Harrogate Autumn Flower Show is taking place from September 19th to 21st. As well as the usual floral marquees – there’s an Incredible Edible pavilion showcasing the best fruit and vegetables – as well as the giant versions – including a National Onion Championship. Plus talks, live demonstrations, expert gardening advice and competitions. And there’s a plant creche so you don’t have to carry your purchases round all day.



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Harry and Meghan dog toy lookalikes fly off shelves as parody chew toys delight pups and royal fans

DOG chew toys of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are flying off shop shelves.

The plush likenesses of the Sussexes, being sold near Windsor Castle, promise “hours of fun for you and your pooch”.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

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Dog chew toys of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are flying off shop shelvesCredit: Splash
Dog toys shaped like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

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The plush likenesses of the Sussexes are being sold near Windsor CastleCredit: w8media

One customer said: “Apparently the Harry and Meghan ones are proving extremely popular, which says a lot about how they’re regarded in Windsor.

“I think that shows how far they’ve gone from heroes on their wedding day to zeroes.”

The toys, which are “100 unofficial and unendorsed parody pet toys”, have two squeakers in their heads and stomachs.

They are stocked by A Dogs Life Co in the town’s Royal Station shopping centre, and cost £17.99 each.

read more on harry and meghan

They are made by Pet Hate Toys and available in small and regular sizes — with squeakers in the head and belly.

It says the Meghan figure is the “picture of elegance” in a shirt, tailored trousers and watch.

Harry is described as having a realistic “bald spot and stern face”.

The blurb continues: “Harry looks so dapper in his fav- furr-ite blue suit, with dog design tie and trademark bangle.”

The shop in Windsor, Berks, also stocks “pawlitical parody” toys of Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Sir Keir Starmer, Nigel Farage and Elon Musk.

The customer added: “I think they’re hilarious.”

Netflix has Harry & Meghan over a barrel – it’s talk about royals & divorce or get NOTHING
Dog toys of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

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The Meghan figure is the ‘picture of elegance’ in a shirt, tailored trousers and watchCredit: w8media
Prince Harry dog toy.

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Harry is described as having a realistic ‘bald spot and stern face’Credit: w8media
Dog toys of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

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The toys have two squeakers in their heads and stomachsCredit: w8media

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Watch moment Prince Harry stands up surfing a wave in new clip shared by Meghan set to iconic tune

THIS is the incredible moment that Prince Harry cruised over a wave on his surfboard. 

Footage of his surfing skills was uploaded to social media by his wife Meghan Markle, accompanied by an iconic 90s track.

Prince Harry surfing.

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Harry cruised over the waves on his surfboardCredit: Instagram
Prince Harry surfing.

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In footage uploaded by Meghan, he was seen carefully balancing while the wave built up behind himCredit: Instagram
Surfer on a wave at a surf park.

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Eventually, the Prince managed to stand up on his boardCredit: Instagram

In the 18-second video, the Duke of Sussex can be seen flying over the waves.

Wearing a baseball cap backwards, a long-sleeve top and shorts, Harry crouches down as a wave forms behind him.

Able to stay stable on the board, the Prince can be seen lifting his hands above his head and cheering. 

And, then, Harry managed to stand up by himself while floating over the water on the surfboard.

Throughout the video, Salt-N-Pepa’s mega-hit Whatta Man, featuring En Vogue, can be heard. 

Meghan chose the chorus of the song to play during the footage, including the lyrics: “What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man.”

She captioned her Instagram post: “We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming to bring you this important message.”

The Duchess topped off her caption with a fox emoji.

Meghan made headlines in 2020, when she bought her husband surfing lessons for his birthday.

At the time, a source told Page Six: “Harry’s loving Montecito, Meghan bought him surfing lessons for his birthday and he’s having the best time.”

Princess Diana documentary on long list of shows Netflix could produce with Harry and Meghan as part of new deal

The Prince showed off his skills in 2024, when he was videoed at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Leemore.

The latest surfing video comes after the couple announced a new deal with Netflix, which gives the streaming giant first refusal over their suggestions for new programmes. 

Their original deal was worth £100 million and ran out this year. 

Reportedly, the pair are planning to create a documentary about the late Princess of Wales and Harry’s mother – Princess Diana. 

The show would mark the 30th anniversary of Diana’s death, after she tragically died in Paris on August 31, 1997. 

An industry source said: “If Harry wants to do it then Netflix will bite his hand off.”

The Prince has spoken candidly about losing his mother in the press, as well as in his autobiography Spare.

In the book, Harry also revealed he had visited a medium, who told him that “your mother is with you”.

The psychic said: “Your mother says, ‘You’re living the life she couldn’t. 

“You’re living the life she wanted for you’.”

Harry gave his daughter Lilibet – named after the late Queen Elizabeth II – the middle name Diana in a reference to his mother.

Meghan Markle’s ventures after stepping down as a working royal

THE Duchess of Sussex has kept busy since stepping down as a senior working royal in 2020 and relocating to California. Here are some of her business ventures…

  • Archewell Foundation – A nonprofit supporting charitable initiatives.
  • Netflix Deal – Producing content like Harry & Meghan and With Love, Meghan.
  • Archetypes Podcast – Former Spotify show on female stereotypes.
  • Clevr Blends – Investment in a women-owned wellness latte brand.
  • Cesta Collective – Minority stake in a handbag brand supporting Rwandan artisans.
  • As Ever – Previously known as American Riviera Orchard lifestyle brand selling jam.
  • ShopMy Page – Online store featuring her curated fashion and beauty items.
  • New PodcastConfessions of a Female Founder focusing on entrepreneurship.

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Fears for Princess stuck in three-year coma as she faces grim health battle after developing ‘severe’ infection

THERE are fears for a Thai princess after the royal palace shared a concerning health update following her three-year-long coma battle.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn, is said to have developed a severe infection.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol waving from a car.

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Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol waves to supporters from inside a car as they arrive at the Grand Palace for a Buddhist ceremonyCredit: EPA
Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Queen Suthida, Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol, and Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti on a balcony.

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Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn stands with his familyCredit: AFP
Woman in cycling helmet waving while on bicycle.

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She is a known fitness enthusiastCredit: Reuters

The 46-year-old, affectionately known as Princess Bha, collapsed in December, 2022, while training her dogs in Nakhon Ratchasima, northeast of Bangkok.

She has been in a coma ever since.

The Bureau of the Royal Household gave the first update on her condition in more than two years on Friday, saying she had suffered a “severe” blood infection.

The palace said in a following update that a team of doctors were closely monitoring her situation.

It read: “The medical team said that she remains in a state of low blood pressure, requiring continuous treatment.

“Doctors are administering medication to stabilise her blood pressure, along with medical equipment and antibiotics to support kidney function and breathing.”

Over the years, some reports have suggested her health condition is far more serious than the palace is letting on.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha was training her dogs at a working dog championship organised by the Thaiarmy when she collapsed.

Paramedics rushed her to a nearby hospital before a helicopter took her to Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn health facility.

Bajrakitiyabha is the daughter of the king’s first wife, Princess Soamsawali.

Tragedy Strikes: German Prince Harald von Hohenzollern Dies in Africa

She has been part of her father’s inner circle since he came to the throne in 2016 and is a senior officer in the king’s personal guard.

The fitness enthusiast is widely viewed as the most suitable successor for her father, who turned 70 this year.

She has post-graduate law degrees from two US universities and has long called for prison reforms in Thailand.

She was also the Thai ambassador to Austria between 2012 and 2014.

The 73-year-old king, who has seven children from four marriages, has not announced his chosen heir.

Though succession rules in Thailand favour men.

The Thai King, Queen, and Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol waving from a car.

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Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol wave to supporters on arrival at the Grand Palace in BangkokCredit: AFP
People bowing before a portrait of Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol.

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Well-wishers bow in front of an image of Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol at Chulalongkorn Hospital in BangkokCredit: AFP

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Rare UK coin with Queen’s portrait to enter circulation for last time – and it could be worth 95 times its face value

THE final batch of £1 coins featuring the late Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait will enter circulation for the last time – and they could be worth a pretty penny.

More than 23million of the coins are being released today, Wednesday August 20 by the Royal Mint has said.

2022 two pound coin featuring Queen Elizabeth II.

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The £1 are entering circulation

That means you could spot one in your change in the coming weeks.

These pieces will be the final ones bearing Elizabeth II’s portrait to enter circulation.

Plus, the Royal Mint said these coins dated 2022, are the rarest £1 coins in active circulation.

If you are keen to spot the coin, there are a few details you can spot.

The front, or heads side, of the coin features a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth and the date 2022.

While the reverse, or tails side, features an image of a crown with an English rose, Scottish thistle, Welsh leek and Northern Irish shamrock.

The coin joins a raft of other rare £1 pieces, including the 2011 Edinburgh City coin that has sold for 95 times its face value.

These coins have a mintage of just 935,000, making it a rare find.

Back in June, the coin sold for £23 on eBay after 21 bids.

The coin was part of a series depicting the four capital cities of the UK and is the only £1 coin with a mintage below one million.

Five 50ps that could earn you thousands

In comparison, a recent bidder paid £7.53 for one of the coins after fighting off bids from five others.

But coins are only worth what sellers are willing to pay for them.

So another piece may sell for a higher or lower price later down the line.

It comes as the official maker of UK coins is also set to release 7.5 million new King Charles III £1 coins.

The 50p and £1 are the only denominations with Charles’s portrait to have entered circulation so far.

The King’s £1 coins feature an intricate bee design on the reverse and are part of the Definitive collection, inspired by the flora and fauna of the British Isles.

Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: “This release represents a pivotal moment in British coinage history.

“As we release more of the King Charles III £1 coins into circulation alongside the final coins of Queen Elizabeth II, we’re witnessing the physical representation of our monarchy’s transition.”

She added: “This dual release creates an exceptional opportunity for both seasoned numismatists and those new to coin collecting.”

“Finding these new coins in your change could spark a rewarding hobby that connects you with the heritage, history and craftsmanship behind British currency.”

And that is not the only rare coin that collectors are keen to get their hands on.

The Kew Gardens 50p recently fetched £205 on eBay after 29 buyers battled it out for the piece.

Other rare coins to keep an eye out for are the Atlantic Salmon 50p,

How to spot rare coins and banknotes

Rare coins and notes hiding down the back of your sofa could sell for hundreds of pounds.

If you are lucky enough to find a rare £10 note you might be able to sell it for multiple times its face value.

You can spot rare notes by keeping an eye out for the serial numbers.

These numbers can be found on the side with the Monarch’s face, just under the value £10 in the corner of the note.

Also, if you have a serial number on your note that is quite quirky, you could cash in thousands.

For example, one seller bagged £3,600 after spotting a specific serial number relating to the year Jane Austen was born on one of their notes.

You can check if your notes are worth anything on eBay, just tick “completed and sold items” and filter by the highest value.

This will give you an idea of what people are willing to pay for some notes.

But bear in mind that yours is only worth what someone else is willing to pay for it.

This is also the case for coins, you can determine how rare your coin is by looking a the latest scarcity index.

What are the most rare and valuable coins?

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Meghan shares trailer for new series of critically savaged Netflix show – after she & Harry struck ‘downgraded’ deal

MEGHAN Markle’s heavily criticised Netflix show has been renewed for a second season as a new trailer dropped.

Footage showed the Duchess of Sussex alongside a host of famous guests ahead of the release of the second series of With Love, Meghan on August 26.

Screenshot of Meghan Markle smiling in a kitchen.

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Meghan Markle in the trailer for the second season of her show With Love, MeghanCredit: Instagram
Meghan Markle in a kitchen scene.

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A number of stars are due to join the Duchess of Sussex in the new series
Meghan Markle getting a bottle of champagne from a refrigerator.

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The first season aired on Netflix in March, with the new series set to land on August 26Credit: Netflix

The first season of Meghan’s eight-part Netflix show saw her bee-keeping, making homemade candles and cooking with celeb pals, including Mindy Kaling and make-up artist Daniel Martin.

Now, the show’s second series promises to be “fun and heartwarming” as a plethora of celebrity guests are due to make their appearance.

This includes stars Chrissy Teigen, Christina Tosi, Jamie Kern Lima, and Tan France.

Describing the new season, Netflix said: “Meghan returns with a fun and heartwarming new season, welcoming celebrity chefs, talented artists, and beloved friends for hands-on adventures filled with laughter and discovery.

“From playful cooking challenges to DIY projects, Meghan and her guests explore bold flavors, experiment with new techniques, and discover simple ways to add beauty to everyday life.

“It’s all about embracing playfulness over perfection and finding joy in creating together.”

Meghan can be seen laughing alongside guests at her Montecito home in the trailer, even joking at the end about Prince Harry’s lack of love for lobster.

Speaking to Chef Andrés, she says: “You know who doesn’t like lobster? My husband.”

In response, the chef light-heartedly retorts: “And you married him anyway?”

This comes after Harry and Meghan announced yesterday they had signed a new “multi-year, first look deal” with the American streaming giant to produce “film and television projects”.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have previously released a number of shows on the platform, including a 2022 documentary on their lives and lifestyle show With Love, Meghan this year.

They had secured a lucrative five-year contract – thought to be worth more than $100 million (£74 million) – with Netflix after quitting as senior working royals in 2020.

However, this new deal has been signed for “much less”, an insider told Page Six.

Meghan and Harry’s Netflix deal is extended as ‘special’ Christmas episode of cooking show & new documentary announced

Meghan said in a statement: “We’re proud to extend our partnership with Netflix and expand our work together to include the As Ever brand.

“My husband and I feel inspired by our partners who work closely with us and our Archewell Productions team to create thoughtful content across genres that resonates globally, and celebrates our shared vision.”

Netflix will only pay for projects they want to screen, rather than pay in a single multi-million pound agreement like the one signed in 2020, The Sun understands.

The Sun can also reveal, however, that the streaming giants will cover Archewell Productions’s overheads, including all costs for its offices and staff.

The new deal was also described as a “downgrade” by PR expert Mark Borkowski.

He told the Mail: “I think Netflix has done a very neat job of pivoting away from two very expensive people who didn’t deliver, and they’ve taken that deal off the table, and they’ve given them a modest one. 

“It’s not like they’re gradually uncoupling – it’s a downgrade. Netflix are not going to expose themselves to those budgets again. It’s Netflix saying, ‘Let’s have a look at your content, but we’ll pick and choose, mate’.”

‘Meghan & Harry need to come up with a hit soon’

By Matt Wilkinson

JUST when you thought it was safe to turn the telly on again… Harry and Meghan are back. And their multi-year renewal with Netflix means they are not going away anytime soon.

There have been tense negotiations in recent weeks but Netflix is so deeply involved with Meghan’s As Ever brand it was always likely that the streaming giants would want them back.

Make no mistake, Harry and Meghan would have been desperate for the deal to be renewed. They will likely be opening a bottle or two of As Ever Rose in Montecito.

Because they have invested heavily in Archewell Productions and getting on board with Netflix is central not only to their post-Royal endeavours but more importantly crucial to their bank accounts.

If they lost their Netflix money then how could they afford their life in the US?

While the length of the deal or how much the couple are getting paid is vague we do know that Meghan will appear in a ‘holiday special’ in December that will likely clash with the Princess of Wales’s annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey.

And finally, two years after I revealed in The Sun the couple had bought the rights to the book Meet Me At The Lake, production is in active development.

Sources close to the couple are coy about whether Harry or Meghan will appear on screen for the production of Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within which will air later this year.

But perhaps the best piece of news from the announcement is no repeat of the six-part documentary which dumped on the Royal Family.

However, ‘Harry & Meghan’ was a ratings dream and none of their projects since have been anywhere as successful. They need to come up with a hit soon.

And this ‘first look’ deal means Netflix has the first option on new projects from the couple without any guaranteed commitment.

But remember the Sussexes are not the only Royals to be in bed with Netflix.

The King will feature in a documentary on The King’s Foundation with Idris Elba.

On top of Season 2 of With Love, Meghan – which will drop later this month – the couple will also film a “Holiday Celebration” Christmas special.

“Join Meghan in Montecito for a magical holiday celebration,” the announcement read.

“Together, friends and family deck the halls, create holiday feasts, craft heartfelt gifts, and share lots of laughs – with simple how-tos to follow at home. It’s a holiday wonder with warmth, tradition, and a generous dose of joy.”

The couple will also release a short film called “Masaka Kids, A Rhythm Within” which will look at Uganda’s Masaka region and the HIV/AIDS crisis there.

This has echoes of Harry’s mum Diana’s work, who pioneered social change on perceptions of HIV/AIDS.

She famously shook the hand of a man suffering with the illness without gloves, publicly challenging the idea that HIV/Aids was passed from person to person by touch.

There is also “active development” on other projects with Netflix which “span a variety of content genres”, including a feature adaptation of the bestselling romantic novel by Carley Fortune, Meet Me At The Lake.

Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, said: “Harry and Meghan are influential voices whose stories resonate with audiences everywhere.

“The response to their work speaks for itself — Harry & Meghan gave viewers an intimate look into their lives and quickly became one of our most-watched documentary series.

“More recently, fans have been inspired by With Love, Meghan, with products from the new As Ever line consistently selling out in record time.

“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Archewell Productions and to entertain our members together.”

It was previously thought that the Sussexes’ £74million deal with the streamer was not going to be renewed.

Harry’s vanity project, Polo, about the sport, was watched by just 500,000 people.

But it was also understood that bosses were mildly infuriated by Meghan making her As Ever brand a priority.

The With Love, Meghan viewing figures have reportedly been “dismal”.

Lifestyle and cookery show With Love, Meghan only ranked at number 383 in Netflix’s six-monthly engagement report this year, with just 5.3million viewers across the globe.

Described by one critic as an “exercise in narcissism”, it was beaten by reruns of the first four seasons of legal drama Suits, which also starred the Duchess in her pre-royal days.

Once judged by some as Britain’s greatest soft power asset since Princess Diana, Meghan was filmed for her show making ladybird-shaped canapes from cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.

In truth, the show is a smash hit compared to her husband’s vanity docuseries Polo, blasted as “a dull indulgence about a rich person’s pursuit”.

In the first six months of the year the programme attracted a disastrous 500,000 views globally, ranking it at number 3,442 out of around 7,000 shows.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle kissing in a garden.

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The Duchess of Sussex’s show previously featured husband Prince Harry and some celeb pals, including Mindy KalingCredit: Netflix

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Awkward moment Brigitte Macron ‘rejects’ her husband revealed by body language expert – after viral ‘slap’ video

AN expert has analysed the awkward moment Brigitte Macron “refuses” her husband.

It comes several months after she appeared to slap Emmanuel as they prepared to disembark a plane in Vietnam.

Emmanuel Macron exiting a plane.

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President Macron has arrived in the UK ahead of a state banquet at Windsor CastleCredit: Sky News
Brigitte Macron exiting a plane.

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His wife Brigitte rejected his offer of a helping hand descending the planeCredit: Sky News
Brigitte Macron and Emmanuel Macron exiting a plane.

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It comes after a video seemingly showed Brigitte pushing her husband earlier this yearCredit: Sky News
Emmanuel Macron shaking hands with someone while Brigitte Macron stands nearby.

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Body language expert Judi James described Macron’s behaviour as overly familiarCredit: Sky News

Emmanuel and his wife Brigitte have arrived in the UK ahead of tonight’s state banquet at Windsor Castle.

However, footage of the pair arriving suggests there could be tension between them according to body language expert Judi James.

After Emmanuel is safely on solid ground, he turns around to offer his arm to his wife as she descends the stairs from the plane.

Yet Brigitte refuses Emmanuel’s gesture, leaving him awkwardly holding his arm in mid-air.

The pair then begin to greet members of the Royal Family who have been awaiting their arrival.

Judi said: “Macron appeared determined to take a joyfully tactile approach to everyone he met today, with exception of his wife.

She added that Brigitte looked “less charmed by her husband’s attempts at a more tactile approach, refusing his offer of a hand to help as she stepped down from the plane”.

While Brigitte does smile at her husband once she’s by his side, the couple quickly begin greeting their hosts.

Emmanuel leads, greeting Prince William first.

Judi said: “His greeting ritual for William was almost intimate enough to suggest he was family.

Kate & William welcome Macron for first UK state visit in 17 years – as thousands gear up for Windsor carriage ride

“He clasped William’s hand for several long seconds, using his left hand to perform a volley of add-on pats and clasps as he did so, each one suggesting close bonding and familiarity.”

After placing his hand over William’s, he then moves it to the prince’s lower arm.

This “intensified the familiarity signals” according to Judi, as Emmanuel moves his hand above William’s elbow before moving it back down to the lower arm.

Emmanuel then moves on to greet Kate, while Brigitte in turn greets William.

In a “creakingly out of date ritual” according to Judi, Emmanuel leans down to kiss the back of Kate’s hand.

Judi said: “This gesture looks gallant but it leaves the woman being kissed with little option but to giggle prettily.”

While Emmanuel leaned down to kiss Kate’s hand, Charles instead raises Brigitte’s hand to his lips, as he “gazes adoringly” Judi said.

Calling back to the rumoured Vietnam slap, Judi said: “Was this the hand she shoved her husband with back in Vietnam?

“If so, Charles was clearly busy charming it into submission.”

In a similarly familial gesture, Emmanuel went on to pat Charles’ upper arm “in a gesture of macho unity”.

The procession precedes tonight’s state banquet in which 160 guests will dine at Windsor Castle to celebrate the relationship between France and Britain.

Princess Kate and Prince William will both be in attendance for the fabulous event.

Brigitte and Emmanuel Macron greeting someone.

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Macron leaned over to kiss Kate’s hand in an outdated gestureCredit: Sky News

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Pubs could rake in £32m if Trooping The Colour was a bank holiday, booze bosses claim

BRITISH pubs could rake in a massive £32 million if Trooping the Colour was designated a bank holiday, beer bosses believe.

The British Beer and Pub Association say an extra 6.5 million pints would be pulled, pouring £5.5 million into the Treasury in VAT and £3 million in beer duty.

Friends toasting with pints of Guinness outside a Dublin pub.

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Pubs could rake in a massive £32 million if Trooping the Colour was designated a bank holiday, beer bosses believeCredit: Getty

Booze bosses called for the King’s birthday to be marked every year with a three-day weekend.

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the BBPA, said: “This weekend was a celebration of British tradition, nation and community.

“Our pubs are central to that story—bringing people together and boosting the economy.

“A bank holiday would not only honour our heritage but deliver a tangible economic and social dividend as communities come together and raise a glass to Beer Day Britain as well as celebrate everything that is great about Britain.”

She added that ministers should support pubs with a long-term plan that includes a cut to beer duty and fairer business rates.

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Prince William gives emotional plea to world leaders urging them to act to save the planet

THE Prince of Wales said watching humans destroy our oceans was “simply heartbreaking” as he urged world leaders to act by thinking big yesterday.

William‘s call came in a speech to the Blue Economy and Finance Forum on ocean preservation at the ­Grimaldi Forum in Monaco after meeting France’s President Emmanuel Macron.

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Prince William speaking at the Blue Economy & Finance Forum

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Prince William said watching humans destroy our oceans was ‘simply heartbreaking’ as he urged world leaders to act
President Macron and Prince William shaking hands at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum.

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Prince William meets France’s President Emmanuel MacronCredit: Reuters

The prince, whose opening and closing remarks were in French, said those attending were “united by our deep connection to the ocean and our ­concern for its safety”.

William, in navy suit with a recycled sustainable tie from Wilmok, said the clock was ticking on meeting the target agreed at the 2022 UN Biodiversity Summit aiming to protect at least 30 per cent of the world’s land and sea by 2030.

Speaking at the heads of state and government session on the forum’s final day, the prince added: “Watching human activity reduce beautiful sea forests to barren deserts at the base of our oceans is simply heartbreaking.

“For the future of our planet, for the future generations, we must listen to the words of Sir David Attenborough: ‘If we save the sea, we save our world’.

read more on prince william

“I call on all of you to think big in your actions.”

World leaders were greeted by a blue carpet as they arrived at the event, with William chatting with Mr Macron and other dignitaries.

Addressing an audience of 1,800, William said: “Rising sea temperatures, plastic pollution and overfishing are putting pressure on fragile ecosystems.

“What once seemed an abundant resource is diminishing before our eyes.

“We all stand to be impacted. And we are all responsible for change — both negative and positive.

“But there remains time to turn this tide.”

Wills jokes ‘families can be a mixed bag – some of them might not want to see you much’

Later, William said he went through a range of emotions when he saw Sir David’s new Ocean film.

He told Enric Sala, who worked on the film: “I got angry, then sad, then I got frustrated, then I got happy.”

Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.

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Prince William urges world to help save seas as he joins Sir David Attenborough to discuss deteriorating oceans

PRINCE William will today urge the world to help save our seas — as he joins Sir David Attenborough to discuss deteriorating oceans.

William is expected to call on everyone to “think big in your actions” when he highlights the urgency of the situation in a landmark speech.

Prince William and David Attenborough examining an ocean exploration device.

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Sir David explains workings of underwater camera to Prince WilliamCredit: Ryan Jenkinson / Kensington Palace
Prince William and Sir David Attenborough discussing Attenborough's new documentary, "Ocean."

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Wills laughs as Sir David tries on a helmetCredit: Silverback Films/ Open Planet Studios / Kensington Palace
Prince William and Sir David Attenborough discussing Attenborough's new documentary about ocean exploration.

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William joined Sir David Attenborough to discuss deteriorating oceansCredit: Silverback Films/ Open Planet Studios / Kensington Palace

In the address in Monaco at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum, he will say: “Let us act together with urgency and optimism while we still have the chance.”

The father of three, 42, is there as founder of the Earthshot environmental prize which has “Revive Our Oceans” as one of its themes.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said: “This speech is the Prince of Wales calling for action to save our oceans now.

“The world is watching. This is him using his platform to call for more to be done sooner rather than later.”

More on Sir David Attenborough

William sits down with Sir David, 99, to celebrate the environmentalist’s new film, Ocean, which is released on streaming platforms today, World Oceans Day.

The Prince asks: “David, from what you’ve seen over the years, what state would you say the oceans are in right now?”

He replies: “The awful thing is it’s hidden from you and from me and from most people.

“The thing I’m appalled by when I first saw the shots taken for this film are what we have done to the deep ocean floor is just unspeakably awful.

“If you did anything remotely like it on land everybody was up in arms. If this film . . . just shifts public awareness, it will be very, very important.

“And I can only hope that people who see it will recognise that ­something must be done before we destroy this great treasure.”

Ocean with David Attenborough, official trailer

Asked by the Prince if there are things deep down in the oceans “we’ve never seen”, he answers that it is “beyond question”.

They also discuss Sir David’s decades of ocean exploration and the vital role the ocean has in supporting and sustaining life on Earth.

Wills and Sir David also speak about the importance of remaining optimistic about ocean protection and the role younger people play.

At the beginning of the film, Sir David has the Prince in stitches as he tries on a diving helmet used in filming 1990’s The Trials of Life.

They also inspect an underwater camera used in filming Ocean.

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David Beckham to finally be awarded knighthood after string of near misses & disappointments over more than a decade

DAVID Beckham is to finally be awarded a knighthood, The Sun can reveal.

The footie legend, 50, will become a ‘Sir’ in the King’s Birthday Honours list next week.

David and Victoria Beckham at a dinner.

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David Beckham is to finally be awarded a knighthood – with wife Victoria set to be known as Lady BeckhamCredit: Getty
David Beckham in a tan suit at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

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The ex-England and Man United star has longed for a knighthood for yearsCredit: PA
King Charles III shaking hands with David Beckham at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

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David has struck up a firm friendship with King CharlesCredit: PA

His Spice Girl wife Victoria will be known as Lady Beckham.

Ex-England and Man United star Becks has longed for a knighthood for years.

The news will also bring some joy to the Beckham household amid a rift with their eldest son Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz.

Politicians and fellow sports stars have spent years calling for the man known as “Golden Balls” to receive a knighthood.

READ MORE ON DAVID BECKHAM

The father of four — who played 115 times for England and has made major contributions to charity— has struck up a firm friendship with King Charles.

And the monarch dropped a potential hint last month that his wait was coming to an end.

Countryside-loving Becks, who is an ambassador of The King’s Foundation, was seen greeting Charles and Queen Camilla at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Coveted honour

He shares a passion for horticulture with Charles and sported the King’s rose in his lapel.

Charles asked him: “You got it, didn’t you?”

Becks replied: “It was incredible, thank you. It was very kind.”

David Beckham meets with King Charles at Chelsea Flower Show

Letters inviting recipients to accept honours are sent out weeks in advance – and one may have already landed on David’s mat at the time of their chat.

He was first put forward for a knighthood in 2011 after helping to secure the London 2012 Olympics.

But he was blocked from getting the title by the Honours Committee after becoming caught up in a tax avoidance scheme, along with many other stars.

Becks retired from playing in 2013, and his finances were cleared by the taxman at least four years ago – paving the way for him to finally get the coveted honour.

Many thought it would finally come in 2022, after he spent 13 hours queuing with the public to pay his respects at Queen Elizabeth’s coffin, which lay in state in Westminster.

But he was again left waiting for the honour.

Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz Beckham at the "Welcome to Chippendales" premiere.

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The Beckham household will be glad of the good news amid a rift with their eldest son Brooklyn and his wife Nicola PeltzCredit: Getty
David Beckham and family at a birthday celebration.

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The Beckhams from left to right: Romeo, Rome’s former girlfriend Kim Turnbull, Harper, Victoria, David, Cruz and Cruz’s girlfriend Jackie ApostelCredit: Tim Stewart

The Sun understands he narrowly missed out on a knighthood in the New Year Honours List published in December last year.

Former England football manager Gareth Southgate got the award.

David had been given an OBE in 2003 for services to football.

He received it from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, watched by proud Victoria, sons Brooklyn and Romeo, and his grandparents.

David and his wife — who shot to fame with the Spice Girls before becoming a successful fashion designer — have an estimated combined net worth of £500million.

David also has a long history of charitable work, which will have been considered by officials on the Honours Committee.

It was inspiring to hear from The King about the work of His Majesty’s Foundation

David Beckham

Last year, he was formally made a charity ambassador by the King, and beekeeper Becks was buzzing with excitement at teaming up with him.

Charles invited Beckham to Highgrove to learn more about the charity, which focuses on “creating better communities where people, places and the planet can coexist in harmony”.

Tours of the grounds help to fund workshops and courses in traditional skills and crafts, and the former footie star met woodworking and embroidery students.

Becks said at the time: “I’m excited to be working with The King’s Foundation and to have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work.

David Beckham celebrating a goal.

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Former footie ace David played 115 times for EnglandCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Victoria and David Beckham at a celebratory dinner.

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David and wife Victoria have an estimated combined net worth of £500millionCredit: Instagram

“I’ve always been keen to help young people to expand their horizons and I’m particularly looking forward to supporting the Foundation’s education programmes and its efforts to ensure young people have greater access to nature.

“Having developed a love for the countryside I’m also on a personal mission to learn more about rural skills which is so central to the Foundation’s work.

“It was inspiring to hear from The King about the work of His Majesty’s Foundation during my recent visit to Highgrove Gardens — and compare beekeeping tips.”

In 2020, he teamed up with the Chelsea Pensioners as he backed The Sun’s campaign to save the Poppy Appeal amid the devastating Covid lockdown.

He said he was “in awe” of the veterans as he delivered poppies to their London HQ.

David added: “With another lockdown coming it is more important than ever that we support our veterans.”

David Beckham holding a Poppy Appeal donation box, with Chelsea Pensioners in the background.

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David teamed up with the Chelsea Pensioners as he backed The Sun’s campaign to save the Poppy AppealCredit: The Sun

Becks, also dad to son Cruz and daughter Harper, has carried out lots of charity work focusing on children, and was appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador 20 years ago.

To mark his 50th birthday last month he appealed for donations for the charity.

He was also a founding member of the leadership council of charity Malaria No More in 2009, helping to eradicate the disease, even visiting No 10 to highlight the issue.

In 2023, he delighted the Brentford Penguins – a football team for children with Down’s Syndrome — with a visit to celebrate them winning one of The Sun’s Who Cares Wins awards.

He took footballing son Romeo with him to lead a surprise training session.

David celebrated his 50th last month with a string of parties, though Brooklyn stayed away.

The honours will be formally announced later this month.

The government does not comment on them beforehand.

WINNER ON PITCH AND OFF

BECKHAM enjoyed an 18-year career that included winning titles in four countries — England, Spain, the US and France — and made him one of the world’s best-known footballers. Some of his most striking moments are:

APRIL 1995: Becks makes his Premier League debut for Manchester United in a 0-0 draw against Leeds.

AUGUST 1996: Scores famous goal from halfway line against Wimbledon.

MARCH 1997: Meets Spice Girl Victoria at an Old Trafford charity match.

JANUARY 1998: Posh and Becks announce their engagement.

JUNE 1998: Plays in his first World Cup with England but is sent off in defeat against Argentina.

MARCH 1999: Has his first child, son Brooklyn, with fiancée Victoria.

MAY 1999: Wins the treble with United as they beat Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.

JULY 1999: Weds Posh in lavish ceremony in Dublin’s Luttrellstown Castle.

NOVEMBER 2000: Named England captain for first time.

OCTOBER 2001: Celebrates as his free-kick goal against Greece takes England to World Cup, left.

JUNE 2003: Joins Real Madrid after falling out of favour with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

JANUARY 2005: Becomes a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, having previously supported its work for children.

MARCH 2005: Opens his first football academy.

JULY 2005: Helps London to win its bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games.

JULY 2007: Joins US side LA Galaxy, before two loan moves to Italian giants AC Milan while in LA.

JANUARY 2013: Joins Paris Saint-Germain, donating wages to kids’ charity.

MAY 2013: Retires from professional football.

FEBRUARY 2015: The 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund is launched to mark his tenth year as goodwill ambassador.

JUNE 2024: Becomes a King’s Foundation ambassador.

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Rare royal mourning ring commissioned by King George IV bought in charity shop for just £15 – here’s what it’s worth

A RARE mourning ring commissioned by King George IV has been found in a charity shop – and snapped up for just £15.

The gold band, engraved with the touching words “Remember me”, was created to honour the death of Princess Amelia, youngest daughter of King George III.

Royal mourning ring with enamel and gold detailing.

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A rare royal mourning ring worth thousands of pounds which is up for auction after being bought from a charity shop in Leicester for just £15Credit: PA
Close-up of a gold mourning ring with inscription.

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A matching mourning ring was later bought by Queen Mary in 1935. Back in 1810, each ring cost 58 shillings to makeCredit: PA
Man in suit holding up a small ring.

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Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “It’s the most important charity shop find I’ve heard about in a decade.”Credit: PA

The historic piece was discovered in a charity shop in Leicester and is now set to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers, where it could fetch between £3,000 and £5,000.

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “It’s the most important charity shop find I’ve heard about in a decade.”

The unsuspecting buyer had picked up the ring from a local shop, unaware of its royal connection.

Mr Hanson recalled: “I was stunned and dazzled. From a simple box emerged a piece of deeply personal Royal history – commissioned by the Royal family itself to honour a lost loved one.”

Princess Amelia was born on 7 August 1783 and died aged 27 in 1810 after a long battle with tuberculosis.

Her death is thought to have devastated King George III, accelerating his mental decline. She was believed to be his favourite child.

The ring, crafted by top royal jewellers Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, was one of only 52 made on the orders of the Prince Regent – who later became King George IV.

They were handed out to close family and friends after her funeral in Windsor.

“The white enamel used in the ring denotes that Amelia was unmarried at the time of her death,” Mr Hanson said.

“White enamel symbolised purity and innocence in mourning jewellery, particularly for those who died young or unmarried.

The Enchanting Jewels of Princess Diana: A Royal Legacy Unveiled

“It contrasts with the more commonly used black enamel, which signified general mourning.”

In a final act of love, Princess Amelia is said to have pressed a ring containing a lock of her hair into her father’s hand as she lay dying, whispering the words now inscribed on the newly discovered ring – “remember me”.

A matching mourning ring was later bought by Queen Mary in 1935. Back in 1810, each ring cost 58 shillings to make.

“This find proves treasures still lie hidden on our high streets,” said Mr Hanson.

“It’s not just the monetary value – it’s the emotion, history and humanity behind this ring that truly moves you.”

Experts believe the ring could attract international interest when it goes under the hammer, thanks to its royal provenance and remarkable condition.

Collectors of royal memorabilia are expected to watch the auction closely.

Jewellery historian Alexandra Michell said: “It’s incredibly rare to find such a piece outside of established collections.

“Mourning jewellery from this era, especially tied to a royal figure, is both historically and emotionally valuable.”

The ring has now been placed in secure storage until its auction day to ensure its protection.

It will feature as a highlight item in Hansons’ Summer Fine Art Jewellery Auction.

The auction will take place on 12 June 2025, and bids are expected to come in from across the UK and abroad.

Portrait of George IV as Prince Regent.

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The ring, crafted by top royal jewellers Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, was one of only 52 made on the orders of the Prince RegentCredit: Getty – Contributor
Portrait of William IV, King of the United Kingdom.

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The historic piece was discovered in a charity shop in Leicester and is now set to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers,Credit: De Agostini – Getty

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Prince Harry makes surprise trip to China as King Charles lands in Canada for landmark state visit

PRINCE Harry made a shock solo appearance in China on the same day King Charles touched down in Canada for a state visit.

The Duke of Sussex attended a global travel and tourism conference in Shanghai where he discussed the importance of sustainable travel.

Prince Harry giving a speech at a summit.

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Prince Harry gave a speech at Trip.com Group’s Envision 2025 Global Partner Conference in ShanghaiCredit: Trip.com Group Envision 2025/Tra
Prince Harry speaking at a conference.

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Harry is co-founder of Travalyst, who strive to promote sustainable travel
King Charles III and Queen Camilla disembarking a plane in Canada.

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King Charles III and Queen Camilla arriving at MacDonald-Cartier International Airport in Ottawa, Canada on MondayCredit: AFP
King Charles III greeted by an honor guard in Ottawa.

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The King is greeted by an honour guard upon landingCredit: AFP

The Prince made the appearance on Monday as part of his role as co-founder of Travalyst, an organisation promoting environmentally friendly travel.

During his address to the Envision 2025 Global Partner Conference today, Harry told the travel industry it needed to do more to hit its climate change targets before 2030.

To limit global warming to 1.5°C, greenhouse gas emissions must peak before 2025 at the latest and decline 43% by the end of the decade.

He added that the Asia-Pacific region is “strongly positioned to do this”.

Speaking at the conference, he said: “Climate change isn’t just an environmental challenge – it’s a critical business emergency, costing the global economy $143 billion dollars annually.

“Now is the moment for the industry to reaffirm its commitment to being a force for good.

“Challenges will undoubtedly rise, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my life, it’s that meaningful change never comes easily.

“The true measure of our commitment is how we respond when the path becomes difficult.

“We must never give up.”

Harry’s trip to China, which was kept under wraps until his surprise appearance in Shanghai, is the first time the Duke has visited the country.

King Charles lands in Canada for landmark state visit

His brother, Prince William, made a similar diplomatic trip to China in 2015 — the first official royal visit in three decades.

The Duke’s Shanghai schedule also included hosting Travalyst’s first-ever two-day Executive Summit, gathering industry leaders and policymakers from across the region to hammer out practical solutions for greener tourism.

It marks the beginning of a global series aimed at turning pledges into action.

As Harry took to the stage in Shanghai, King Charles touched down in Canada also on Monday with Queen Camilla to attend The State Opening of the Parliament in Ottawa.

It marks the first time the monarch has done so since Queen Elizabeth in 1977.

In March, the King held a meeting with then-Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, after the Commonwealth leader faced pressure from the US.

Charles and Camilla were welcomed in Ottawa with cries of “welcome home” as they stepped off their RAF flight from the UK.

Their whirlwind two-day trip to Canada has been hailed as “momentous” — seen as a bold show of solidarity with the country as it locks horns with Donald Trump over sovereignty.

Prince Harry speaking at a conference.

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In Shanghai, the Duke of Sussex said that the Asia-Pacific region is ‘strongly positioned’ to help promote sustainable travel
Prince Harry speaking at Trip.com Group's Envision 2025 conference.

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Harry’s solo trip to China marks his first time in the country

Charles was previously reported to be “concerned” about the growing discord between the US and Canada.

The King and Queen were met at Ottawa’s airport by new Prime Minister Mark Carney, who swept to power following outrage over Trump calling Canada “America’s 51st state.”

Carney called the royal visit “a reminder of the bond between Canada and the Crown… shaped by shared histories, and grounded in common values.”

Charles, on his 20th visit to Canada, took time to meet crowds under the hot midday sun, hearing thanks and cheers from the public.

The King, who is head of state for Canada, is also expected to meet with Indigenous leaders and veterans during the trip, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen ties and support reconciliation efforts.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney greeting people at an airport.

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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney greets people after King Charles and Queen Camilla landed in OttawaCredit: AFP
Well-wishers waving Union Jack flags at a royal event.

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Well wishers wave flags before the arrival of the British monarchsCredit: AFP

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Ultra-rare pattern on 50p coin means that it’s just sold for £69 after bidding war – do you have one in your pocket?

BRITS are being urged to check down the backs of sofas and rifle through their purses after a rare coin sold for £69.

Cash is being uses less and less nowadays, with many preferring the convenience of tapping contactless cards to make payments.

Stack of fifty pence coins.

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Your loose change could be worth more than you thinkCredit: Getty
50 pence coin depicting a salmon, superimposed on an ocean scene.

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The Atlantic Salmon 50p is currently the rarest coin in circulationCredit: The Royal Mint
Photo of a rare 50p coin featuring an Atlantic salmon, sold for £69.09.

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One coin has just sold on eBay for £69Credit: EBay

And whilst many of us increasingly see loose change as an annoyance, which we shove deep into our jeans pockets, never to be touched again, it can actually be extremely valuable.

The rarest coin currently in active circulation is His Majesty King Charles III’s 50p coin, depicting the Atlantic Salmon.

Just 200,000 of the coins were released back in 2023, 10,000 less than 2009’s Kew Gardens 50p coin, which was previously the rarest in circulation.

The commemorative coin features a salmon jumping out of the water on one side, and the word ’50 pence’ on the other side.

On the other side of the coin is a picture of King Charles III.

Over 100 different 50p designs have been released since the coin was first introduced, making it the nation’s most collectable coin.

And if you happen to have a rare 50p gathering dust in your piggy bank, it make you a decent bit of cash.

This week, an Atlantic Salmon coin sold on eBay for a whopping £69, after a fierce 16 bid showdown.

There are countless other listings for the coins, with sellers charging upwards of £100 for the rare 50p.

Royal Mint revealed that one in 355 people have the likelihood of finding a salmon coin in their wallet, so why not check now to see if you could make some cash.

The rare marking that makes error 50p worth more than 100 times its face value

On October 7 one coin sold for £164 with six bidders fighting for the prize.

Another sold for £147 on December 16 with a whopping 37 bids.

If you’re ever unsure of how much a coin should be sold for, it helps to look at what prices other people are listing.

You can also run it through Change Checker’s Scarcity Index to get a sense of its value.

What are the most rare and valuable coins?

Rare coins, especially those with low mintages, can fetch hundreds and even thousands of pounds.

Coins that have mistakes on them are also extremely rare, and collectors will pay thousands for them.

How to Sell a Rare Coin

If you’re lucky enough to find a rare coin amongst your spare change, you can sell them through online marketplaces such as eBay.

You can also sell coins via auction, through the Royal Mint Collector’s Service.

If you choose to do it this way, a team of experts will authenticate and value your coin, and advise you on how to sell.

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