According to data released by Colombia’s Search Unit for Missing Persons, known by its Spanish acronym UBPD, at least 137,000 people have been reported missing in connection with the country’s armed conflict since 1921. Photo by Mario Caicedo/EPA
Aug. 31 (UPI) — When Tobías Borda Cepeda disappeared in rural Colombia in 1921 amid local land disputes, his family could not have foreseen that his case would mark the beginning of a tragedy that would span a century.
According to data released by Colombia’s Search Unit for Missing Persons, known by its Spanish acronym UBPD, at least 137,000 people have been reported missing in connection with the country’s armed conflict since that year.
Marking the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances on Sunday, the agency said 48.5% of all cases occurred during the 2000s, with the highest concentration between 2001 and 2003.
Disappearances during the first decade of the 21st century represent a dark chapter in Colombia’s recent history. Between 2000 and 2010, the country experienced an escalation in violence marked by fighting among right-wing paramilitary groups, left-wing guerrillas and state forces in a war waged on multiple fronts.
During that period, armed groups used enforced disappearances to conceal the large number of victims, terrorize local communities and facilitate the illegal seizure of millions of acres of rural land.
Valle del Cauca, Antioquia and Meta have recorded the highest number of cases, according to the UBPD.
The concentration of cases in those regions reflected the broader strategic objectives of armed groups seeking to control key corridors for drug trafficking and arms smuggling, as well as natural resources and rural border areas.
“This is a crucial date to remember that disappearances have not stopped,” Luz Janeth Forero, director general of the UBPD, said in a statement.
Forero said records from the International Committee of the Red Cross show that another 2,659 people have disappeared since the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, signed a peace agreement in 2016.
The Red Cross warned Friday that at least one person has disappeared every two days this year as a result of Colombia’s armed conflict, with 99 cases recorded between January and July.
The international organization said in a statement that 36 of those reported missing were children and adolescents.
On Saturday, Colombia’s new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, ended negotiations with several illegal armed groups that had been launched by his predecessor, Gustavo Petro. He revoked the appointments of government representatives and withdrew recognition of the opposing delegations involved in talks under the so-called Total Peace plan.
BBC’s Escape to the Country saw couple Matt and Jamie embark on a house hunt in Devon, where they were wowed by a clever country house feature
Sonali Shah admitted she was obsessed with one house in Devon on Escape to the Country (Image: BBC)
Escape to the Country host Sonali Shah admitted she was “obsessed” with one property as the BBC show accompanied two new house hunters to Devon.
As the property series supports prospective buyers, it was down to Sonali to help Matt and Jamie find their rural dream home in and around the idyllic county of South West England during Wednesday’s (August 26) episode of the BBC series.
Jamie, an NHS genetic counselor based in the Oxfordshire town of Wantage, and her partner Matt, an aerospace engineer living in Eastleigh, Hampshire, had a budget of £550,000 to purchase their property together, with hopes of the house becoming a family home in the future.
When Sonali visited the third property on her list, she shared her excitement and said: “Our mystery house is all about location, and I can’t wait to see their reaction about being smack bang in the middle of the village. The house itself, oh my word.”
The host later confessed to Jamie and Matt: “I’m going to be straight, I am obsessed with this house,” before Jamie later confirmed it was a “dream home.”
The handsome Georgian house, situated in Ipplepen, offered four bedrooms and two reception rooms, nestled in the very heart of the village, and was priced at £530,000.
As Matt and Jamie explored the charming home, they were particularly struck by one standout feature — a first-floor laundry room.
Matt said, “It’s a clever use of space, actually,” as Jamie replied, “It is a really smart idea. You’re not having to lug washing baskets up and down the stairs every five minutes. I don’t know why everyone doesn’t do that.”
Despite Jamie highlighting the “perfection” of the property’s interior design, she noted the garden offered no room for a workshop — something that could prove a dealbreaker. Matt conceded the home fell short of their “practical needs”, yet remained keen.
Later in the episode, which originally aired in 2024, Jamie and Matt unveiled the outcome of their property search on Escape to the Country.
The couple delightedly announced they had placed an offer on the very first property, with Matt saying: “After seeing the second and third one, the first was the best fit for us.”
Their offer had been accepted, and Matt and Jamie had successfully purchased a property in Mutterton which was on the market for £550,000. The 19th-century cottage boasted three bedrooms, an annexe, and a sizeable kitchen.
Escape to the Country airs on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer
Ukranian center Kate Koval will not return to Louisiana State’s basketball team next season, coach Kim Mulkey said in a statement released by the Tigers on Monday.
Koval’s decision to leave the program comes less than two weeks after LSU announced the signing of Russian teenager Anna Minaeva. Koval was born and raised in Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital city, and her father is a drone operator fighting against Russia in its four-year invasion of Ukraine. According to nola.com, Koval said last season that she worried for her father’s life “every single day.”
“Kate came to see me on Sunday and told me that after much consideration, she will be leaving the program for personal reasons,” Mulkey said in her statement. “We will respect her privacy on her decision, but we had a long talk about it, and it was a hard decision for her. I know it is hard because she loves LSU.
“Kate is a great person. She has to do what she feels is right for her, and we fully support her in that. We all wish her the best.”
No announcement has been made about a future basketball home for Kobal, a 6-foot-5 rising junior who played at Notre Dame as a freshman before averaging 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks for the Tigers last season.
Minaeva, also a 6-5 center, is 17 but has previously played professionally with MBA Moscow. Mulkey told nola.com that she spoke with Koval earlier in the offseason before starting the recruiting process with Minaeva.
“I want you to understand I’m not here to ask you to change how you feel about Russia,” Mulkey said she told Koval. “I’m just here out of respect for your family and out of respect for you to let you know. Because I know how personal it is for you.
“Know that what I have to do in this business, I cannot make a decision to not recruit somebody that can help our program because of a conflict between two countries.”
Carsley said the 45-year-old Cole, who retired from playing in 2019 before going into coaching, had a “positive, inspirational impact on his players”.
“I want to pay tribute to Ashley who played a major part in our two Euro wins and also had a key role in the current campaign with his tactical and technical knowledge,” he added.
“I am certain he will have even more success in his coaching career whatever the future holds.”
After completing his coaching badges at Derby County under Frank Lampard, Cole worked in Chelsea’s academy before further spells assisting managers at Everton, Birmingham City – under Wayne Rooney – and then England during Carsley’s brief spell as interim boss of the senior side in 2024.
Cole took over as head coach of Serie B club Cesena in March after feeling “discouraged” within the English football pyramid from succeeding in a managerial role.
He left the role in June, external after discussions with the club’s sporting director regarding a “change in the club’s strategy”.
As a player Cole won 107 England caps and secured multiple trophies with Arsenal and Chelsea, including three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Europa League, seven FA Cups and one League Cup.
Jane Hazlegrove, who is best known for playing Bernie Winter on Coronation Street, has launched a rant at a fellow actor and her co-stars have all clamoured to know who she was talking about
Jane Hazlegrove has issued a warning to fellow TV stars about their behaviour on set
Jane Hazlegrove has issued a warning to fellow TV stars about their behaviour on set. The actress, 58, who currently plays Bernie Winter on ITV soap Coronation Street and previously starred as Kathleen ‘Dixie’ Dixon on Casualty, took to Instagram over the weekend to make a statement about professionalism within the industry.
She shared an image of a quote which read: “Booking the role isn’t the end of the interview. How you behave after you’re hired matters too.”
In the caption of her post: “This post makes total sense! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? As my Dad used to say, you are only as good as your last performance! Be nice! And if you can’t be nice… step away… cos people see!”
The actress, who joined the soap in the role of Bernie in 2019 but also appeared in the mid-1980s Sue Clayton and was involved in a storyline with Jack and Vera Duckworth, was inundated with comments from co-stars.
Jack P Shepherd, who plays David Platt in the soap and has appeared on the show since 2000, said: “This isn’t me is it?”
Sally Carman, who plays Abi Webster, quickly joined in as she replied with a string of laughing emojis, but Jane said: “Soz pal you don’t win this one!!! No it’s bloody not!!!” Sue Devaney, who plays Debbie Webster on Coronation Street, left a string of heart emojis.
Loose Women star Sunetra Sarker, who appeared alongside Jane on Casualty when she played Dr Hannah, said: “Never a truer word said ma’am.”
Emmerdale legend Lisa Riley, who first appeared as Mandy Dingle more than 30 years ago and went on to appear in Waterloo Road and compete on Strictly Come Dancing before making a comeback in 2019, left a string of clapping hands emojis in the comments section of the post. Michelle Hardwick, who plays Vanessa Woodfield on Emmerdale, said: “Oh I LOVE this”
But Jane, who has also appeared in other programmes like Heartbeat, Silent Witness and Holby City over the years, quickly pinned a comment to the top of her Instagram post, so she could clear up any confusion.
She said: “Just for clarification this post is NOT about anyone I am currently working with at Coronation Street. It’s a gentle reminder to be kind and professional at all times!”
When Bernie arrived on Coronation Street, she was introduced as the estranged mother of Gemma Winter (Dolly-Rose Campbell) and Paul Foreman (Peter Ash), who was later diagnosed with motor neurone disease and died in late 2024.
Bernie went on to enter into a relationship with local shopkeeper Dev Alahan (Jimmi Harkishin) and it was later established that she was the long-lost mother of DC Kit Green (Jacob Roberts), who later turned out to be the long-lost father of Brody Michaelis (Ryan Mulvey).
Bernie, who currently works in Roy’s Rolls, went on to marry Dev towards the end of last year but was dealt with further tragedy when events that unfolded in the programme’s crossover with Emmerdale saw a crash claimed the life of her son-in-law, Billy Mayhew.
The documentary had viewers glued to their screens (Image: Sipa/REX/Shutterstock)
A chilling documentary about one of the world’s most infamous serial killers is streaming now.
Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer was originally released in 2003 and it is still captivating viewers over 20 years on. The film dives into American murderer Aileen Wuornos’ crimes and trial, which ended in her execution in 2002.
A synopsis teases: “British documentarian Nick Broomfield creates a follow-up piece to his 1992 documentary of the serial killer Aileen Wuornos, a highway prostitute who was convicted of killing six men in Florida between 1989 and 1990.
“Interviewing an increasingly mentally unstable Wuornos, Broomfield captures the distorted mind of a murderer whom the state of Florida deems of sound mind — and therefore fit to execute. Throughout the film, Broomfield includes footage of his testimony at Wuornos’ trial.”
The documentary is now available to watch on Channel 4, along with the director’s original 1992 film, Aileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial Killer. Those without access to Channel 4 can alternatively stream the movie on STV Player.
Both critics and casual viewers have shared glowing reviews of the film, with Rotten Tomatoes pundits giving it an impressive 85% score.
But fans have confessed they were deeply disturbed by Wuornos’ dark story and execution. One person posted: “Very bizarre and quite chilling documentary. It affected me and disturbed me in equal measure.”
Someone else agreed: “Ultimately this is a sad documentation of one woman’s mental demise on death row and one can’t help but feel empathetic towards Aileen and what her life amounted to.”
A third viewer added: “A deeply disturbing documentary of the iconic serial killer Aileen Wuornos from the most acclaimed documentary film maker in the U.K, Nic Broomfield. The documentary goes much deeper, much further than anybody could have anticipated.”
Yet another fan chimed in: “Chilling really sad story. This is one of those films that make you question your own humanity.”
Others were completely captivated by the film, with one sharing: “Really fantastic I did not regret watching it,” and another adding: “I was completely glued to the screen watching this documentary.”
Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer is available to stream on Channel 4 and STV Player.
Carr won seven of his 21 Super League matches in charge and leaves with the Tigers ninth in the 14-team table.
Chester, who has led the team in the past two matches, said last week that they were not “actively looking” for a new head coach.
Owner Martin Jepson said he was “sorry” that Carr had left the club.
“We have had a difficult set of circumstances to deal with and unfortunately not been in a position to provide more information to the fans. However, our actions have been, and always will be, in the best interests of the club,” he said.
Jepson confirmed that Jason Netherton would assist Chester and Luke Robinson for the remaining four games of the campaign.
The Tigers visit St Helens on Saturday, looking to build on last week’s win at Hull FC.
“It was around 12:30pm when the explosions [were heard] at the seaport, which was full of workers at the time. I couldn’t understand what was happening, and we couldn’t flee because the explosions were continuous,” Al-Homaidi told Al Jazeera. “After about an hour and a half, I ran outside the port and didn’t stop until I reached home.”
Thirty more people were injured in the barrage of Houthi drone and missile strikes that targeted the port and surrounding areas.
Houthi forces have continued to target the port and surrounding areas on a near-daily basis, resulting in dozens of deaths and injuries.
On August 11, the Houthis targeted a vessel at al-Makha port, killing three Pakistani crew members and injuring eight other seamen.
Three days later, the Houthis targeted two cargo ships at the Red Sea port, damaging the facility’s remaining infrastructure.
Due to the repeated Houthi attacks, operations were suspended last Friday to avoid putting the port’s 1,500 workers’ lives in danger.
For Al-Homaidi and other workers whose salaries were dependent on their daily labour, the port’s closure means a new struggle to put bread on the table.
“I am happy that we are safe at home today, but we are jobless now because we rely on daily wages,” Al-Homaidi said. “I don’t have any savings, and our food at home is running out. How can I provide basic needs for my family?”
Life beyond the seaport
Al-Homaidi also has experience working in al-Makha’s other major industry: fishing. But dangerous attacks around the Red Sea mean this is not an option for him and his colleagues at the port either.
Local fishermen have been ordered by local authorities not to go out to sea until further notice – but with money running low, a group of fishermen still ventured out on August 11. Their families are continuing to desperately search for them after they failed to return home.
With near-daily Houthi attacks on al-Makha, public beaches, parks, the coastal walkway and other areas have also been closed.
Families avoid going outside due to the threats of Houthi drones and missiles, and a strict nightly curfew for motorcycles is in place from 11pm to 6am.
Compounding the community’s suffering is a complete blackout of landline and mobile communications. Residents who can afford it use Starlink satellite internet. But for most Yemenis in al-Makha, there is no way to reach the outside world.
Houthi attacks have stopped fishermen in al-Makha from going out to sea [File: Al Jazeera]
Back to square one
Abdulmalik Al-Sharabi, director of al-Makha port, confirmed to Al Jazeera that repeated Houthi attacks have forced the port to halt operations. At least six merchant vessels carrying commercial cargo have been struck since the most recent bout of violence, resulting in casualties among civilians and seamen.
“More than 1,500 port workers lost their jobs, while 16 were killed and 22 injured as a result of the Houthi attacks,” Al-Sharabi told Al Jazeera English.
Missile strikes have specifically targeted civilian infrastructure at the port and in surrounding areas, he said.
“The attacks targeted commercial and service areas, workshops, equipment, and the port pier, destroying it to the point that it ceased operations,” Al-Sharabi noted.
Operations across 30 shipping and customs clearance agencies have ground to a halt, affecting workers.
The port, which was closed between 2015 and 2021, serves as an economic lifeline for Taiz governorate as well as other Yemeni economic hubs such as Lahj, Hodeidah and Ibb. With it now closed, traders there will be forced to route imports via the port of Aden, driving up logistics costs.
“We were happy to have a seaport with such operational capacity, but today we are back to square one,” Al-Sharabi said.
Fishermen and traders are worried for their future in al-Makha, where 1,500 have lost jobs after Houthi attacks killed 16 fishermen and forced the port to shut down [File: Al Jazeera]
No money, no food
Abdulraoof Abdullah, a fisherman in his 50s from al-Makha, has no source of income for his eight family members other than the fish he caught in the Red Sea. Due to the instability off al-Makha’s coast, he has not been out to sea since August 11.
“We are out of work now, and our homes are almost empty of food. We try to secure meals each day either by going into debt or asking friends for help,” he told Al Jazeera English.
With the port closed and food imports reduced, Abdullah said he expects prices to rise in the market, and he has no choice “but to pray to Allah.”
“We don’t have money to buy food for today, so how could we possibly have money to stockpile food?” he added.
“Most residents in Makha are fishermen, and we are currently out of work,” Abdullah said. “When we have jobs, we can buy food; otherwise, we will have to displace to another area where we can find work to support our families.”
Trading woes
Rashad, a local trader in al-Makha who preferred to be identified only by his first name, was importing goods through shipping agencies at the port since 2021. Given that his warehouses are just a few kilometres from the port, this was by far the cheapest option.
“Our goods are currently held up in Djibouti, and shipping costs have surged due to ongoing tension in the Red Sea,” Rashad told Al Jazeera. “Furthermore, we were just informed that our cargo will now be redirected to Aden, meaning we will have to pay significantly more for overland transport from Aden to al-Makha.”
With the warehouses still stocked with food from earlier orders, prices have not yet risen. But if the port remains closed, traders will be forced to increase prices on future shipments arriving via Aden.
“I am a resident of al-Makha before I am a trader. Any price increase directly impacts my family and neighbours – something I desperately want to avoid. But unless al-Makha seaport reopens soon, price hikes will be inevitable,” he added.
Although Rashad didn’t have any cargo on the ships that were recently hit in Houthi attacks, he said he feels empathy for other traders who suffered financial losses.
“Some people assume traders are financially comfortable, but we are in a state of constant worry. We track our shipments for months until they safely reach our warehouses,” he said.
“No one can imagine the devastation felt by traders who lost everything at al-Makha port. The harsh reality of this war has impacted every single Yemeni, and we are no exception.”
Holidaymakers warned viral airport photo trend can turn dangerous in seconds
10:51, 19 Aug 2026Updated 13:48, 19 Aug 2026
The short and narrow runway attracts holidaymakers (stock image)(Image: Getty)
British holidaymakers are being warned against copying viral plane-spotting videos at a popular Greek island airport. It comes after two tourists were seriously injured by jet blast within days of each other.
Skiathos International Airport, officially called Alexandros Papadiamantis Airport, has become one of Europe’s most famous plane-spotting locations because its runway sits extremely close to the coastline and surrounding public areas. Aircraft pass remarkably low over spectators as they approach, attracting holidaymakers who gather nearby to photograph and film arrivals and departures. It features a short, narrow runway measuring 5,341 feet.
But two recent incidents have highlighted the risk when aircraft are taking off. On August 10, a 52-year-old Italian tourist suffered serious head injuries after the force from a departing aircraft reportedly knocked her to the ground.
She was initially treated at the Skiathos Emergency Clinic before being airlifted to Volos General Hospital. Just three days later, another Italian woman in her early 50s reportedly suffered a severe arm fracture after being knocked over by the jet blast from another departing aircraft.
Local authorities and the airport have consistently placed large warning signs around the perimeter fence to emphasise the serious risks of being near departing aircraft. The prominent signs displayed around Skiathos International Airport, Alexandros Papadiamantis, alert onlookers that the force of engine thrust can push people and objects away. Police and city officials keep reminding visitors to avoid congregating directly behind the runway.
Emily Matthews, travel advisor at Private Portugal Tours, says tourists should understand that standing near a runway to watch a plane land and positioning themselves directly behind an aircraft preparing to depart can expose them to very different risks. “The videos that make Skiathos famous can make the whole experience look like an unusual holiday attraction, but tourists need to pay attention to exactly where they are standing and what the aircraft is doing,” Emily said.
“Standing directly behind a departing aircraft to get a dramatic video is something holidaymakers should avoid. If there are warning signs telling you about jet blast, take them literally and move away.”
Take off is where tourists need to be particularly careful
Skiathos has sometimes been described as Europe’s answer to St Maarten in the Caribbean, where aircraft famously pass low over a beach before reaching the runway. That close approach is what many tourists travel to photograph.
However, watching aircraft take off can be more hazardous for spectators too close to the runway perimeter, as large aircraft generate substantial thrust as they depart. Warning signs at Skiathos specifically alert visitors to the danger of jet blast.
“People may arrive because they have watched a video of an aircraft flying low overhead, then assume that anywhere around the runway is part of the same experience,” Emily said. “The important distinction is what happens when a plane turns around and prepares to take off. If you are positioned behind it, you can suddenly be in the path of extremely powerful airflow.
“Do not choose your position because a video looked impressive from there. Look at the warning signs around you and keep well away from areas where spectators are being warned about jet blast.”
Do not assume the crowd means the spot is safe
Plane spotting at Skiathos is well established, and large numbers of spectators can gather close to the airport. Emily says that creates another risk for tourists: assuming that a location must be safe because dozens of other people are already standing there.
“A crowd is not a safety assessment,” she said. “It is very easy on holiday to think, ‘Everyone else is doing it, so this must be where you are supposed to stand.’
“That logic can be especially persuasive when people have their phones out and appear to be waiting for exactly the same photograph. But warning signs do not stop applying because a crowd has formed beside them.”
The August 10 incident is currently being investigated by local authorities, according to reports. The tourist was believed to have been standing at a plane-spotting area close to the airport when she was knocked down. Skiathos has also seen jet-blast injuries in previous years, reinforcing that the hazard is not theoretical.
The ‘perfect’ video is not worth standing behind a departing aircraft for
Emily also warns tourists against trying to recreate footage they have seen online frame-for-frame. Viral travel videos often show only the few dramatic seconds when an aircraft passes or begins its take-off roll. They do not necessarily show the warnings around the location, how far the person filming is from the aircraft or what happened immediately afterwards.
“Social media can flatten the difference between watching something and participating in the risk,” Emily said. “You might see people’s clothes and hair being blown around and think that is part of the fun. Once enough videos like that circulate, being hit by the blast can almost become part of the attraction.
“Two serious injuries within days should be enough to remind people that being knocked off your feet is not a harmless holiday experience.” She advises tourists who want to watch aircraft to choose a position away from the direct line behind departing planes, respect barriers and signs, and move if local staff or authorities instruct spectators to do so.
Keep children away from the jet-blast area
Families should be particularly cautious about bringing young children into crowded plane-spotting locations where departing aircraft are nearby. “Children are naturally going to be excited when a huge aircraft passes close overhead, but this is one place where parents should decide where the family stands rather than simply following the crowd.
“If you cannot clearly understand the warnings or you are unsure whether your position is exposed to departing aircraft, move farther away. You can still enjoy watching the planes without trying to stand in the most dramatic possible spot.
“Skiathos is famous for an extraordinary view that aviation enthusiasts cannot experience at many other European destinations. That does not make every position around the runway equally safe. The simplest rule is to remember the difference between the spectacular low approach people travel to see and putting yourself behind an aircraft as it powers up to leave. A holiday video is never worth ignoring a warning sign for.”
Tropical Storm Lala moved westward and farther away from Hawaii on Wednesday after delivering torrential rainfall and flooding to the islands. Photo courtesy of NOAA
Aug. 17 (UPI) — As of Monday, Lala has moved away from Hawaii, but the hurricane — a tropical storm as of Sunday — left widespread damage in its wake.
The storm brought intense rain and high winds to the islands, although it didn’t make landfall. By Monday, it was moving to the west, getting stronger and expected to become a hurricane again at sea. Behind it, Hawaii’s residents began to clean up the damage — and a lot of mud.
The flooding swept about 100 homes off their foundations on Hawaii’s Big Island. Gov. Josh Green said that no one was believed to have died in those incidents. A car crash Sunday that killed one person is no longer considered to be related to Lala, CNN reported.
“Everyone is safe and healthy,” Green said, CBS News reported. “But, boy, a lot of work ahead.”
Tens of thousands of people were without power Monday. The heavy rainfall set off landslides that also wiped out roads. Kimo Alameda, mayor of Hawaii County, said power restoration in some areas could take days or longer and that six bridges were at least partially destroyed.
In a social media post Monday, Alameda said that the Department of Water Supply is asking all Hawaii (Big) Island customers to limit water use to essential purposes only.
All state and county offices, schools and courts were closed Monday.
Five places on the islands received 35 inches or more of rain, and Kapalua in Maui County received 48 inches.
The National Hurricane Center said Monday that Lala is moving west and expected to turn toward the west-northwest and northwest on Wednesday and Thursday. Its maximum sustained winds are now about 65 mph. It could become a hurricane again by Tuesday.
“Large waves generated by Lala will continue to trend down from east to west across the Hawaiian waters, but life-threatening surf and rip current conditions will persist today,” the NHC said.
It feels inconsiderate of Ariana Grande to bring her Eternal Sunshine tour to the UK at the tail end of the year’s fifth heatwave. Haven’t we suffered enough already?
But the fans packed into London’s O2 arena on Saturday night didn’t seem to care about the heat and the sweat.
They came ready to dance. Thousands of them, dressed in cat ears, bridal gowns and elaborate floral headpieces.
They scream when she references rumours she’s back together with her ex, Ricky Alvarez. And they bounce in unison when she plays colourful club anthems like Into You and Break Free.
It’s the first time Grande has played in the UK since 2019, partly because of Covid, but also because of her Oscar-nominated role in the movie musical Wicked.
She rewards fans with a few of Glinda’s signature hair tosses, external and, more importantly, a two-hour show that highlights the incredible agility of the star’s voice.
Sure, the production has all the paraphernalia a major pop tour – big sets, plumes of smoke, inspired choreography – but there are long stretches where it’s just Grande on stage with her band. Her stunning, four octave vocals come first. Everything else is a distant second. And rightly so.
It’s a bravura performance that showcases her facility with melody and arrangement – and she essentially recreates it live on stage at the O2.
After the opening run of songs, she hushes the audience and spends two minutes looping her voice. First the lyric, “I don’t care what people say, it’s true”, in high and low registers. Then she adds short phrases: “Won’t break. Can’t Shake. Deep breaths…. Tight chest. Life. Death. Rewind.”
They become the backbone of the next song, Eternal Sunshine.
The holiday park operator changed its accommodation grading over a year ago, and has clarified how this will affect customers, but some have taken to social media to voice their disappointment
11:29, 12 Aug 2026Updated 11:58, 12 Aug 2026
Parkdean changed its grading system last year(Image: Parkdean Resorts)
Parkdean has changed the way it grades its accommodation and it has left some customers ‘disappointed’, while others have been left confused by the update.
A number of guests have taken to the Parkdean Resorts Complaint Group on Facebook and shared their experience of booking accommodation with the holiday park operator.
Parkdean’s website explains that its grading system is now based on the size of the accommodation, rather than quality or age, so Bronze, Silver, and Gold run from smallest to largest. There are also ‘Premium’ options in each of these grades.
But some customers have claimed that this is different to how other holiday parks grade their accommodation, which could make it confusing. A member of the Facebook group claimed: “Gold caravans were always more luxurious than silver or bronze and this was reflected in the higher price. This new pricing system is not only confusing but very disappointing if you think you are paying for gold quality and end up with bronze instead.”
A spokesperson for Parkdean Resorts, said: “Guests consistently tell us how much they enjoy staying at our holiday parks, and we’re proud to maintain a strong TripAdvisor rating of 4.2 from more than 12,000 reviews.
“Our accommodation categorisation system was introduced over a year ago to help guests find the holiday experience that best suits their needs. As explained on our website, accommodation is categorised by size rather than quality or age, with premium options available across each size category, offering enhanced features and higher-specification fixtures and fittings.
“All of our accommodation is maintained to high standards, and we remain committed to providing every guest with a great holiday experience.”
But some holidaymakers in the Facebook group are still claiming to be left unhappy with their accommodation. One claimed they “booked a gold van” but felt “very disappointed” at what they felt “can be described as a silver van at best”, alleging that staff on site told them “that the grading system has changed and there is nothing they can do”,
Another claimed they had “booked a gold premium caravan and at best it was a bronze” at Sandy Bay Northumberland. They alleged that when they asked a member of staff they were told “pictures are only for illustration only and the status as in bronze, silver gold or gold premium is on the size of the caravan and not the spec”.
There are other holiday park operators that do grade their accommodation based on facilities rather than size. For example, Haven offers six caravan grades, from Saver to Signature Gold, and while some grades such as Bronze and Silver are around the same size, the latter offers extra features such as an outdoor deck.
Park Holidays also offers four core tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with bronze described as an “affordable option” while “platinum caravans are crafted to the highest standards and include private decking, en-suite facilities and premium finishes.” There’s no mention of sizing on its website.
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The documentary was originally released in 2023 but is now available on HBO Max, NOW and more. It’s left many fews with “goosebumps” after watching the “haunting” ending
The documentary follows a young man who was no stranger to filming his entire life – but then things took a dramatic turn (Image: HBO)
It can be tricky deciding which documentaries to devote your time to, especially with so much choice on offer. But an “unforgettable” documentary has earned praise for its emotional depth and “haunting”, chilling conclusion that lingers with audiences long after the final credits.
There’s an abundance of thought-provoking, powerful and compelling documentaries available across numerous streaming services like NOW, Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and beyond. Those seeking greater insight into our world and the cosmos can indulge in the various David Attenborough-led programmes like Life on Earth, Planet Earth and countless others.
True crime devotees have no shortage of options, with the likes of Making a Murderer, Girl in the Picture, Fred & Rose West: A British Horror Story, and plenty more capturing global audiences.
But for those yearning for something slightly different, a 2023 documentary currently streaming on HBO Max might prove the ideal solution.
Lots of telly fans head to social media while searching for their next marathon viewing session and popular TikTok content creator Luke Ecclestone, who shares content online as Eccy Reviews, has emerged as a trusted resource for many audiences.
Luke has accumulated hundreds of thousands of followers across social media where he offers his thoughts and analysis on various films and television programmes.
What is 2023’s Daniel about?
In a recent video uploaded to TikTok, he highlighted the 2023 documentary, Daniel, which chronicles the life of Daniel Northcott, who started filming his life from just seven after acquiring his dad’s video camera.
Luke began: “You need to cancel whatever you [were] planning on watching tonight because I’ve just gone and found you the perfect documentary to go and watch.
“It is emotional, it will send shivers down your spine, and you genuinely never will forget the ending.”
He continued: “The documentary you need to see is called Daniel. Now, this is available on HBO Max and if you’re someone who’s seen it, you’ll know exactly why I’m talking about it.
“[This documentary] follows Daniel, who at a young age is given a film camera. He begins to document his whole entire life into his 20s, when he begins to explore the whole world.”
However, circumstances soon shifted dramatically for Daniel.
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Luke explained: “He becomes a teacher in Asia until one day, he goes into this Mayan cave, where he is drawn to this rock.
“He decides he wants to take it home, but he is advised not to because of the bad spirits, etc, etc. However, after the warnings, he begins to take the rock home.
“And three months later, he is diagnosed with leukaemia. Now, he begins to document his journey with cancer.
“It is very emotional, it is very personal, it will definitely bring a tear to your eye. When he begins to remember about this rock, he cannot find it – and it becomes a documentary that is super entertaining, but emotional.
“Genuinely, when you get towards the end of this documentary, you will never, ever forget what happens. So make sure you go and head over to HBO Max – go and check out Daniel.”
How did viewers react to Daniel?
In the comments section, fellow TikTok users were eager to voice their opinions. One person said: “It’s absolutely brilliant but very haunting.” Another said: “Best documentary.”
A third commented: “Just watched it on Sky Docs, wow! One of the most powerful documentaries I’ve seen for a long time, good shout.” While a fourth said: “Daniel documentary absolutely broke me and [I] get goosebumps every time I think of that ending.”
Someone else shared: “This was such a bittersweet watch.” And another viewer added: “I can confirm, the ending gave me the shivers. Wow!”
‘We’re going backwards.’ Palestinians in Gaza say Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of the US-backed 15-point plan has deepened uncertainty over an end to the war. Hamas says it remains committed to the agreement.
Josie Gibson failed to hold back on her line of questioning during the latest instalment of This Morning as she asked Ricky Gervais about his relationship
Ricky Gervais discussed his career and new Netflix programme
ITV’s This Morning made for hilarious viewing on Friday (August 7) as Ricky Gervais was interviewed on the famous blue sofa.
The 65-year-old appeared on the daytime programme to discuss his new Netflix show, Alley Cats, with presenters Paddy McGuinness and Josie Gibson. But after briefly talking about the new animated series, Josie questioned Ricky on other matters.
Talking about his character Gus in Alley Cats, Ricky mentioned that he is similar to the animated feline because he dislikes people. Stating that he prefers to stay indoors instead of socialising outside, Ricky said: “It’s my favourite thing!
“It’s couch, me, girlfriend, cat, wine, Netflix.” He added: “Honestly, just to get up and go on tour, I’ve already been paid so I’ve got to do it.”
Josie then probed: “Have you not married Jane then. Is she still your girlfriend?”
To which Ricky awkwardly replied: “Yeah. Yeah – we do everything. We are married, really. But just not in the eyes of God.”
With Josie responding: “Right, okay!”
Ricky and his long-term partner, Jane Fallon, have been together for more than four decades, having started their relationship in 1982 after meeting while studying at University College London.
Over the years, the couple have built successful careers of their own. While Ricky became one of Britain’s most recognisable comedians, actors and writers through projects including The Office, his partner Jane has established herself as a bestselling novelist.
Reflecting on their early years together, Ricky has spoken about the modest flat they shared in London’s King’s Cross, recalling that it was all they could afford at the time. Despite their humble beginnings, the couple have remained by each other’s side as their careers continue to flourish.
Ricky has often praised his partner for inspiring his work, and their relationship has remained strong throughout his rise to international fame. Although they have been together for over 40 years, the pair have repeatedly said they have no plans to marry or have children.
Speaking to The Daily Mail in February 2018, Jane told the publication: “We’re not married because neither of [us] are fussed. I think if one of us really cared then we would probably do it but it’s not really been anything that either of us have ever really needed.”
Thick smoke was seen billowing from the ferry KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2, which was carrying 271 passengers and crew when it caught fire off the coast of Indonesia’s Madura Island on Sunday. Photo by Stringer/EPA
Aug. 2 (UPI) — At least five people were killed and 41 remain missing after a ferry carrying hundreds of people caught fire off the coast of Indonesia’s Madura Island on Sunday, officials said.
Thick smoke was seen billowing from the passenger vessel KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2, which was carrying 271 passengers and crew.
The ferry’s captain reported the fire as the vessel traveled from Surabaya to Makassar about 6 a.m. local time.
Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency said survivors were rescued by a number of vessels that had been in the area, the Jakarta Globe reported.
Search and rescue efforts continued throughout the day. The ferry was still smoking by mid-afternoon, the Globe reported.
Victims were taken to three area hospitals for medical evaluation.
“Our main focus is on rescuing the victims and ensuring they receive the best possible care upon their arrival on land,” Sumenepe Police Chief Ariek Indra Sentanu told iNews. “The TNI, Polri, and district government are working together in the field.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials said.
A mum-of-three who left the UK three years ago and moved her family across the world has said the biggest reason for moving abroad was how expensive things are at home
The mum left the UK for a gorgeous and much cheaper country (stock photo)(Image: Getty Images)
A mum-of-three has claimed her “life is better” after taking her family across the world to escape the cost-of-living crisis. Many Brits have been feeling the pinch over the past few years, with the cost of everything from food to energy bills and petrol costs skyrocketing and leaving everyone with less money in their pockets.
But while many of us look at ways we can cut our spending by being more frugal with our food shopping or cutting back on family holidays, one mum has taken matters into her own hands – by moving somewhere more affordable. Lucy Richardson shared a video on social media in which she said rising costs were one of the biggest factors in deciding to move her family abroad for a new life.
In a video shared on TikTok, Lucy explained that she, her husband, and their three young children decided to leave the UK in 2023. They now live in Bali, Indonesia, where prices are so low that she can completely fill her moped for just £4 – and the tropical weather and gorgeous views are just a bonus.
She said in her video: “The cost of living in the UK was completely out of control, and that’s why we left. We left nearly three years ago because two full-time working parents were not enough for us to sustain the life that we had in the UK.”
Lucy revealed that she and her husband were working full-time to try and support their family and pay their rent, but were finding that they were barely getting by and described their situation as “surviving” and not “living”.
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She continued: “We just felt like we were constantly chasing our tail and constantly paying stuff out. Then we had this tiny little pot left over to actually enjoy ourselves and do things that we wanted to do. Then, because there wasn’t enough money, we would put it on a credit card, and then we were in this massive circle of debt.”
The mum-of-three said she could see her family being in this cycle for years, potentially never being able to live their lives until they were retired, by which point they could be “too ill or too old” to enjoy it.
What’s more, Lucy felt like she was missing out on spending time with her three children, as they were growing up without her while she worked full-time to support them. So, the family made the decision to leave the UK and move to Bali.
She said: “It was a crazy, vicious circle that I didn’t want to be a part of. So we left. We now have a much simpler life.
“Today, we just filled up our moped for £4. The same petrol that you have in the UK, and that’s a full tank that’s going to last me for two weeks. Four quid. It’s absolutely crazy.
“Now, we have a much simpler life. We don’t have to go to a nine-to-five [job], and I get to see my kids’ childhoods. So I know what I would rather pick, and that’s why we left the UK. So many people ask, and it’s the cost of living. It was just too high.”
Many commenters on the post praised the mum for having the courage to take her family across the world for a better life, with many saying they wish they could do the same.
One person said: “Well done, you, for taking that step and leaving the UK to better your lives. We are a family of five and totally understand where you are coming from. We class ourselves as the working poor. Working but have nothing to show for it because everything goes on paying taxes and bills.”
Another added: “Agree totally, Britain is a rip off. You did right in getting out.”
A third posted: “Same here. We left six years ago for Spain and it’s so liberating. Our relatives can’t believe how much less we pay month to month here and can now appreciate why we left.”
Katie Price left her son Junior mortified with a shocking revelationCredit: ITVJunior Andre was left with his head in his hands after Katie admitted she had a ‘hairy muff’Credit: ITV
Katie replied: “That’s what I mean you’re following in my footsteps.”
Speaking candidly on her mum‘s cheeky venture, Princess said in her confessional: “It’s actually really interesting to hear mum talk about starting to build her career.
“Because like if a girl did that now at 18, it would be classed as very wrong so, it’s two different lives really.”
Podcast host Katie then went on to leave her kids – specifically Junior – gobsmacked by a surprise revelation.
She announced: “I had bit of a hairy muff back then though.”
Katie didn’t stop there, she added: “It was because I had red bikini on and the ironing board cover would take it off and I had like a little triangle.”
Junior said: “Mate that I…I don’t like…”
“It’s part of your mum’s journey and after that I bought out cups with me topless on them,” added Katie.
Mortified Junior decided to remain silent as his mum opened up on her sexy merch.
A British tourist visiting the Canary Islands has shared a great-value restaurant find in Tenerife, where a pizza and Aperol Spritz lunch came to much less than viewers were expecting
16:36, 27 Jul 2026Updated 16:36, 27 Jul 2026
A British holidaymaker has recommended a restaurant in Tenerife that serves cheap pizzas and drinks (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
While planning holidays to the Canary Islands, or any other popular tourist destination, many holidaymakers will outline an itinerary to plan out their days. This often includes the various activities they want to do, places to visit, and when to schedule in time to relax by a pool or a beach.
One of the many people who have shared where they’ve eaten is British tourist Beth Yeandle, who often takes to her TikTok to share her travel vlogs and recommendations to her followers. During a recent holiday to Tenerife with her friends, Beth went on to document her pizza lunch at a restaurant called La Spezia, raving about both the food and the prices.
“Okay, you need to save this for your next trip to Costa Adeje,” Beth said at the start of her video, as she was seen tucking into a cheesy-looking pizza.
People amazed by value of Tenerife restaurant
Panning to the outside of the restaurant, she revealed that she and her friends had stumbled upon the eatery one afternoon during their holiday, drawn in by menus advertising a €6 (£5) pizza and pasta deal, alongside a happy hour offering half-price drinks between 2pm and 5pm.
“We were so buzzing with this little find,” Beth said, as she shared footage from inside the restaurant, which was decked out in a minimalist Mediterranean style.
Beth and her two companions each ordered a pizza, all with different toppings, yet each looking equally mouth-watering.
“The pizzas were huge, and you can’t beat a good Aperol at lunchtime,” Beth said. “We enjoyed it so much that we actually ended up going twice.”
Although she didn’t disclose the total bill, assuming she took advantage of the deal, her food would have come to just €6.
As for the drink, the typical price in Tenerife ranges between €7.50 (£6) and €8.50 (£7), meaning her entire lunch set her back less than £10 with the half price offer.
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Viewers were quick to flock to the comments section to voice their opinions, with many desperate to visit the eatery themselves after watching Beth’s clip.
“Ohhhhh I love Tenerife,” one person wrote, while someone else commented: “The best restaurant! !”.
“I’d be there every day,” a third person said.
Another user pointed out: “It’s worth noting that this is in Callao Salvaje and not Costa Adeje.”
A landslide on the outskirts of the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing has killed at least eight people and left 34 missing. 10 residential buildings have been buried, forcing more than a thousand residents to evacuate.
The Hairdresser Mysteries seems to have won over TV viewers as it launched to favourable reviews on BBC One
The Hairdresser Mysteries had a great response from viewers(Image: BBC/Mill Bay Media/Khuram Mirza)
A new BBC detective series has left fans “obsessed” as it launches with positive reviews.
The Hairdresser Mysteries made its debut on Friday, 17 July at 2pm. Written by playwright Jim Cartwright, the series centres on Lily Petal, a talented hairdresser whose obsession with all things 1970s is matched only by her flair for styling.
After leaving the fast-paced world of an upmarket London salon, she relocates to a small hairdressing shop in a quiet northern market town in search of a slower pace of life. However, that plan quickly unravels when a string of suspicious deaths begins unfolding around her new home.
Before long, Lily finds herself solving crimes instead of simply cutting hair, with sharp-minded assistant Clary Coombs by her side. Their unlikely detective team is completed by the town’s resident busybody, Wincey, and enthusiastic Police Constable Adam, who all become caught up in a series of investigations.
Leading the cast is Sally Phillips as Lily, the fashionable salon owner whose knack for uncovering clues proves just as useful as her skills with a pair of scissors. The 56-year-old actress is widely recognised for playing Shazza throughout the Bridget Jones film series.
Taking on the role of Clary is Charlotte Jordan, whose character’s intelligence and eye for detail make her an invaluable partner in Lily’s amateur sleuthing. The 32-year-old actress is best known to television audiences for portraying Daisy Midgeley in Coronation Street, a role she held between 2020 and 2025.
Promoting the show on Instagram, actress Charlotte penned: “The Hairdresser Mysteries’ drops on @bbcone and @bbciplayer today with the schamazinggg @sallysmack @isunetra and @bencastlegibb.
“Welcome to Blosson Vale. Where everyone’s a little bit odd…and someone usually ends up dead. New episodes every Friday for the next six weeks.”
After seeing her post, fans couldn’t get enough and headed straight to the comment section to share their thoughts. One social media user wrote: “So obsessed, already need another series!!”
Another wrote: “LOVING IT SO FAR!! Lily and Clary are already an ICONIC duo!!”
Fans on X, formerly known as Twitter, also shared similar sentiments, with one writing: “I guess a lot of us were just watching because it was Charlie Jordan’s first job after Corrie and she was brilliant.”
The Hairdresser Mysteries airs Fridays at 2pm on BBC One.
Former “The Ring” and “Lilo & Stitch” child star Daveigh Chase, who died while homeless in June after years of battling drug addiction, leaves an estate worth nearly half a million dollars.
Probate documents filed July 8 in Los Angeles County Superior Court say Chase — legal name Daveigh Elizabeth Schwallier — left behind about $400,000 in personal property. The late actor’s mother, Cathy Chase, submitted the documents and filed a petition to become the administrator of her daughter’s estate.
The court filings also note that Daveigh Chase died without a will, is only survived by her parents, and confirm that she was homeless at the time of her death. The last known address for Chase appears to be a home in Chatsworth.
Chase died June 16 in a hospital at age 35. In initial reports, her father, John David Schwallier, and her boyfriend said the actor died of complications from bacterial meningitis and a blood infection. But the medical examiner’s report disclosed that Chase died of AIDS, which is caused by HIV, as the primary cause of death. The report also listed chronic polysubstance use — using more than one drug or substance at the same time or within a short period — as a “significant condition.”
Chase started her acting career in the late 1990s with minor roles in popular TV series, including “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” “Charmed” and “ER,” and starred in multiple beloved movies at the turn of the century. In 2001 cult classic “Donnie Darko,” she was Samantha, the younger sister of Jake Gyllenhaal’s troubled Donnie Darko. She would reprise the role eight years later for the sequel, “S. Darko: A Donnie Darko Tale.”
In the same year as “Donnie Darko,” Chase lent her voice to the American dub of Hayao Miyazaki’s tender “Spirited Away,” voicing its protagonist Chihiro. The film won the animated feature prize at the 2003 Academy Awards.
Chase was known for her versatility, demonstrated by her roles in “Lilo & Stitch” and “The Ring” in the same year. In the latter, she played ghost girl Samara Morgan.
In the aughts, Chase also appeared in more than 20 episodes of the Fox sitcom “Oliver Beene” and more than 30 episodes of HBO’s Emmy-nominated Mormon family drama “Big Love” as cunning teenager Rhonda Volmer. After the hit series, Chase’s career slowed and she appeared in lower-profile projects. Her final credit was a voice-acting role in the 2016 video game “Let It Die.”
A hearing for Chase’s probate case is set for Aug. 12.
Times editorial library director Cary Schneider and staff writer Hannah Fry contributed to this report.
