Following the tragedy, the FA insisted that it would carry out a safety review of perimeter walls in the National League.
But officials at Wingate and Finchley have already made steps to increase safety around the pitch at the Maurice Rebak Stadium.
The Daily Mail has reported that work has been commissioned to make improvements.
The ground did comply with current regulations, but the club has now demolished the wall completely.
It follows on from a petition calling on brick walls around pitches to be banned reached over 4,000 signatures.
On the immediate review, a FA spokesperson said: “[It woudl] include looking at ways we can assist National League system clubs to identify and implement additional measures at their stadiums that they determine will help to mitigate any potential safety risks.”
Billy Vigar dead: Ex-Arsenal star dies aged just 21 after suffering ‘significant brain injury’ hitting head during match
Meanwhile, the PFA called for an investigation and demanded that players should “not be put at unnecessary and avoidable risk”.
Vigar, from Worthing, West Sussex, spent his youth career with Arsenal after joining at age 14 and signed a professional contract in July 2022.
He worked his way up to the U21 team in North London, alongside loan spells with Derby County U21 and Eastbourne.
He left the club permanently in 2024 after being unable to progress to the senior team, joining Hastings United in the Non-League Premier before his move to Chichester.
Full statement from Arsenal
Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is deeply sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Chichester City forward and former Arsenal academy player, Billy Vigar.
Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms aged 14, after being scouted at his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC and excelled as a striker at Hale End, scoring 17 goals in his debut season.
In 2020, his performances earned him a scholarship and joined us full-time for the 2020/21 season, his intake including current players Charles Sagoe Jr, Remy Mitchell and others such as Omari Hutchinson, Charlie Patino and Brook Norton-Cuffy.
Quick, powerful and fiercely determined, his first season as a scholar was blighted by a serious hamstring injury, but he made up for it in his second, scoring four goals in 18 under-18 appearances and signed professional terms for the club at the end of that 2021/22 season.
Billy went on to appear for us in the PL2 and EFL Trophy and proved to be an asset across the forward positions and even deputised in defence – his versatility illustrating his commitment to the coaching staff and his team.
He enjoyed loan spells at Derby County and Eastbourne Borough and at the end of the 2023/24 season, headed back to his native south coast, signing for Hastings United – prior to a move to Chichester just last month.
As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club – he once called the day he was spotted by our scouts as ’the most Important of his life’ – and a character beloved by teammates and coaches alike.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.
Ruth Codd, who is in this year’s The Celebrity Traitors on BBC One alongside 18 other stars, wants to raise awareness about amputations following a horrific injury
23:49, 08 Oct 2025Updated 23:52, 08 Oct 2025
Ruth Codd is pictured on The Celebrity Traitors(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Studio Lambert/Euan Cherry)
The star’s candid interview, which has resurfaced following her appearance in the new series last night, details why Ruth, now 29, had her right leg amputated below the knee. The actress had injured her foot playing football when she was 15 and, in around 2019, she suffered further complications which led to the surgery.
Ruth, from Wexford, Ireland, said she made the decision to help relieve the pain and gain more control over her life. Ruth has learned in the subsequent years to use a prosthetic leg, she told the Irish Examiner. This interview from 2022 has resurfaced today following interest on Ruth and her injury.
She said: “My injury is the greatest challenge I’ve faced in my life so far. I injured it playing soccer at the age of 15. It never healed correctly so until I was 23, I was on and off crutches, getting loads of operations. Because of nerve damage and chronic pain, I chose to get it amputated. It took eight years of my life, constantly going in and out of hospital.
“My whole life revolved around trying to heal my leg. For years, I didn’t see it getting any better. I was stuck in a really bad mindset and I was pissed off at life. When I made the decision to amputate it, things finally started to turn around. It was a relief. I could get on my life.”
In The Celebrity Traitors, Ruth and 18 other stars compete to prove themselves as either a Faithful or a Traitor. The other celebs include actor and broadcaster Sir Stephen Fry and Olympian Tom Daley.
Ruth, who portrayed Anya in the Netflix thriller series The Midnight Club, previously spoke of her delight to partake in the show. Her enthusiasm was mirrored by the BBC unscripted director Syeda Irtizaali, who said of the show in the summer: “It was a real pleasure to cast this series. I think where we started with was we wanted to have a really broad range of people, obviously, but we also wanted people that were real fans of the show, that really understood it.
“I was worried about it; I was worried about how they were going to play it compared to members of the public, but we have nothing to worry about. They really play the game, and some of the things that you’ll see them doing are extraordinary; that’s all I’m going to say. It’s well worth the wait.”
Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, The Celebrity Traitors will air on Wednesdays on BBC One and iPlayer.
Kelly Clarkson has returned to The Kelly Clarkson Show just over a month after her ex-husband and father of her two children died at the age of 48
Kelly Clarkson had taken a step back(Image: Youtube/kellyclarksonshow)
Kelly Clarkson has returned to her TV show stateside a month after the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. The former American Idol winner, 43, took time out from presenting The Kelly Clarkson Show after the tragic news of Brandon’s death in August.
Brandon, who was married to Kelly for almost seven years their split in 2022, died from melanoma on August 7. He was aged just 48. The duo shared two children together, River Rose, 11, and nine-year-old Remy. Brandon also had two children from a previous relationship.
Now, returning to her role on the show, Kelly showed her usual mix of humour and emotion. While she didn’t directly touch on her former husband’s death, the occasion was emotional.
During the show, Kelly spoke with Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell. The Hollywood pair were on the show to promote their new film A Big Bold Beautiful Journey. The trio bonded over ‘the highs and lows of parenthood’.
“The kids are doing well, they’re all bonding together and hanging out with each other, and taking it one day at a time,” she confessed. “We know God’s got this.”
Brandon, who was a talent manager, died after living with melanoma for over three years. A rep for his family announced the death at the time via a prepared statement.
It read: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years.
“He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”
Brandon’s daughter Savannah recently admitted she “never imagined” she would lose her father. The sad message posted on Instagram shared her pain. The 23-year-old, who is expecting her third child, wrote on the social media platform: “So far, 2025 has been a year full of ‘Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding.’
“As we’re ending Quarter 3 I’ve found myself looking back at all of the love and support my husband and I have had through the lows and heartbreak.
“Seeing my dad sick and losing him was something I never imagined or could have possibly prepared myself for, let alone young and pregnant.
“We have had an overwhelming amount of love and support poured onto us over the past 6 months and we are eternally grateful.”
The grieving star penned a tear-jerking post on Instagram and wrote: “For 14 years this was the happiest day of my year, every year without fail!
“Our anniversary! The day you made me the man I am today by saying yes to being my boyfriend!
“To say this day, for the past two has been pretty much unbearable would be an understatement! (sic).
“Today was supposed to be our 1st wedding anniversary, our 16th anniversary together and today it just feels like the year mark from the day I laid you, my beautiful boy, to rest!
“I don’t know how I’ve survived without you! You were without a shed of doubt the best thing that has and will ever happen to me!
“The glue that held us all together. I want you to know on this day that it will always be our anniversary, I will always be yours!
“In all of our years together I only have one regret – I’m not sure many people can say they only have one in a relationship as long as ours!
“It’s that I couldn’t fulfil yours and my dream of making it down the aisle!“
X Factor star’s fiance suffered head injury after falling from hotel window just weeks before wedding, inquest hears
He continued: “The day you officially became mine. I always laugh at me swearing at all our friends taking the p** making smooching sounds lol.
“The best day of my entire life and always will be! I love you Oliver more than anyone has ever loved another person!
“Until I’m in your arms again I will never be complete or whole, but I will for you live as much as I can!
“I’m trying not to get too upset writing this because it’s taken more of me than I thought I had this past year to even survive but I can’t help it.
“I miss you, I miss me, I miss us, our life. I miss the life we were robbed of!
“I know you were only loaned to me for 15 incredible years but I wanted and still want more!
“One thing I had never felt since the day you walked into my life was lonely, but now it me all I feel (sic).
“There are so many wonderful people around me, but I said it before, the 8 billion people on this planet couldn’t patch the hole you’ve left in my heart, even a fraction!“
He concluded: “I love you my beautiful boy! Ever thine, even mine, ever ours. 24 XXIV. Happy anniversary.”
Jaymi was one of the founding members of Union J in 2012 – formerly known as Triple J.
The singer starred in the ninth series of The X Factor alongside contestants George Shelley, JJ Hamblett and Josh Cuthbert.
The foursome came fifth in the competition, which was eventually won by solo singer James Arthur – beating Rylan into fifth, in the same series as Ella Henderson.
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The happy couple were engaged to be marriedCredit: Instagram
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Union J band members George Shelley, JJ Hamblett, Josh Cuthbert and Jaymi Hensley in 2022Credit: Rex
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The singer and the love of his life Olly in 2024Credit: Rex
A POPULAR rock star has pulled out of his band’s 25th anniversary tour – after his wife’s death.
Greg Tribbett, 56, is the lead guitarist and a founding member of Mudvayne.
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Greg Tribbett is Mudvayne’s lead guitarist and a founding memberCredit: Getty
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The US rock star recently lost his wife DebbieCredit: Instagram/@thetribbs
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Mudvayne first formed back in 1996Credit: Getty
Writing on social media, Greg’s bandmates confirmed his absence from their 25th anniversary tour following his wife Debbie’s passing.
They penned on social media: “Tour starts today!
“We are going to miss our brother Greg on this tour, sending him and his family all the love.
“- Chad, Matt, Ryan, & Mudvayne crew.”
Mudvayne’s tour began on September 11 and will continue until October 26.
According to a GoFundMe campaign, Debbie had been diagnosed with Angiosarcoma, a rare form of cancer.
Meanwhile, a fan page wrote on social media earlier this week: “With the heaviest of hearts we mourn the loss of our dearest most beautiful friend Debbie Tribbett.
“Anyone who has been here from the start of the Mob family knows she was a huge integral part of this page and the family she did take a step back once she needed to but was still watching and sharing as she always did.
“She was fiercely supportive of MUDVAYNE and her loving husband Greg always so proud!
“I thank her for bringing her love and light to so many of us who were lucky enough to connect with her.
Rock star devastated as he’s diagnosed with ‘very aggressive’ cancer and shares snap from hospital bed
“We miss you beautiful sweet friend more than words can say god bless you and may your family be blessed with strength.”
One person commented: “Ah man this is so sad to hear. Praying for Greg and the children. This is tough.”
Another added: “I heard the news yesterday and cried my eyes out. Makes my heart hurt for her babies.”
Mudvayne formed in 1996 with Greg, vocalist Chad Gray, drummer Matthew McDonough and bassist Shawn Barclay.
Ryan Martinie joined the group a year later, to replace Barclay as bassist.
Mudvayne went on hiatus in 2010 before returning to the stage in 2021.
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Fans shared their sympathies to Greg for his lossCredit: Getty
In “Task,” premiering Sunday on HBO, Brad Ingelsby, creator of the 2021 miniseries “Mare of Easttown,” which introduced the wider world to Wawa and the Delco accent, returns with another tale of crime and family in the rural-suburban wilds west of Philadelphia. Where women were at the center of “Mare,” men are the subject here — a cop and a criminal, symmetrically arranged — messed-up middle-aged single fathers who care about their kids.
Both have been loaded with tragedy. Robbie (Tom Pelphrey), whose wife took off a year before, has a much-missed dead brother in whose house he’s living with his two kids and young adult niece (Emilia Jones as Maeve, a secret hero); he’s a garbage collector with a sideline in robbing drug houses, which he identifies through their trash. This routine has been successful enough that he and his partner, fellow trashman Cliff (Raúl Castillo), have drawn the attention of the authorities.
FBI agent Tom (Mark Ruffalo) has a dead wife (Mireille Enos, seen briefly in flashback), a son in jail he can’t bring himself to visit and a semi-estranged adult daughter (Phoebe Fox); on leave from field work, he’s been manning the agency table at job fairs. That changes when his boss (Martha Plimpton), much to his displeasure, calls him back as a substitute to lead a task force into the drug house robberies, already assembled by his predecessor from other branches of law enforcement. There’s Lizzie (Alison Oliver), young and distractable; Aleah (Thuso Mbedu), terse and focused; and Anthony (Fabien Frankel), loose and Italian.
It’s clear from the guns that both sides pack, and the fact that Robbie has been stealing from criminals — notably a drug-dealing motorcycle gang, the Dark Hearts, which has its own explosive internal business — that something is going to go fatally wrong sooner or later. (If that’s a spoiler, you are blessed with a special brand of naivete.) The bikers, who are not at all nice, though painted with some recognizably human qualities — represented primarily by Jamie McShane as Perry and Sam Keeley as Jayson — are the usual screen collection of exclusively good-looking men and women, though to be fair, this is true of Tom’s team too — Tom perhaps excepted. (Ruffalo put on weight for the role, and wants you to notice.)
In “Task,” Robbie (Tom Pelphrey) is a single father who steals from other criminals.
(Peter Kramer / HBO)
Indeed, the predominant experience of watching “Task” is waiting for the next terrible thing to happen, which may be called suspense or dramatic tension, but in the event makes for an often depressing watch, especially since the safety (physical, psychological) of young children is involved. (That can feel a little cheap, dramaturgically, like endangering a kitten, but it works.) One is grateful for anything relatively ordinary — Lizzie and Anthony dancing in a bar, Tom’s younger daughter, Emily (Silvia Dionicio) connecting with a co-worker at the custard ice stand. (Another item for the regional reference bucket.)
In the compare-and-contrast structure of the series, we learn that Robbie, though he is a fount of bad decisions, is the more optimistic, proactive of the two characters — he has a dream, in the form of a brochure, regarding a Canadian island, where he would like to spirit his family away. (He’s doing the crime to afford it.) He’s interested enough in finding “a life companion” to open a dating app. Tom, who had been a priest for eight years before losing the spirit and joining the FBI, still in mourning for his wife, drinks too much, is packing a paunch and can’t connect with Emily, the only family member left in the house.
Both have connections to nature. Tom, who grows vegetables, is a birdwatcher; Robbie keeps chickens. Both are essentially tenderhearted, which is perhaps not the most practical quality for their professions, but necessary for the story — we need to like them. They’re like one and a half sides of the same coin.
In among the criminal antics and police work is a lot of talk about life and death and God, guilt and forgiveness. Ingelsby thinks big. The title to one episode, “Out Beyond Ideas of Wrongdoing and Rightdoing There Is a River,” paraphrases the 13th century Persian poet Rumi, and water is a motif — diving into it, swimming in it, hanging around by it. Birds, too, which show up in random shots and, like the lakes and rivers, function as a sort of psychic relief for the viewer and metaphors for the story. When Tom, speaking to Robbie, identifies a certain bird as a “vagrant … a bird that strayed outside its normal range, strayed so far that it’s forgotten how to find its way home,” that is not really about birds. The writing can be a little on the nose, but better a violent story with ideas than one with none.
For all my reservations when it comes to this sort of drama, it’s very well made and very well acted, and, where many crime stories settle for sensational nihilism, “Task” does want to leave you feeling … pretty good. Not horrible. Hopeful. I trust that hasn’t spoiled it for you.
Shebah Ronay was the original Hollyoaks poster girl, but her character Natasha Andersen was tragically killed off after just a few months on the Channel 4 soap
16:36, 04 Sep 2025Updated 16:40, 04 Sep 2025
Hollyoaks’ Natasha Andersen star Shebah Ronay (Image: London Features International)
Former Hollyoaks star Shebah Ronay, who portrayed the legendary Natasha Andersen, has embarked on a striking career transformation three decades after the soap launched.
Natasha served as Hollyoaks‘ original pin-up – alluring, spirited and tragically, the first main character to meet her demise in a shocking death plot.
Her devastating end unfolded in March 1996 when she suffered a fatal overdose after her beverage was laced with ecstasy during a house party. She later collapsed and died in hospital leaving fans of the Channel 4 soap in shock.
Shebah, now 53, initially appeared on our television screens as Natasha on October 23, 1995, when the soap launched on television. But her character’s death was announced in January 1996.
Hollyoaks cast in 1995 including Shebah Ronay as Natasha Anderson (Image: MERSEY TELEVISION COMPANY LIMITED)
The sequence was branded a “sensational scene in an attempt to boost ratings” at the time, crafted to elevate viewing figures and provide a sharp departure from the “softer stories about teen romances and spots”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
During its first year, Hollyoaks encountered backlash for its absence of socially conscious storylines, prompting producers to develop a powerful narrative centred around Natasha’s drug-induced death.
This plot generated significant media attention and represented a pivotal moment for the programme as it started addressing weightier topics.
Shebah Ronay launched an acting career on Hollyoaks back in the 1990s(Image: DAVE M. BENETT/GETTY IMAGES )
Looking back on Natasha’s departure, series creator Phil Redmond commented: “Natasha’s death depicts the stark reality of unnecessary death coming very close to one group of friendly and fun-loving people for the first time in their lives and how this is bound to change their outlook in many ways”, reports the Mirror.
After her departure from the show, Shebah didn’t linger in the acting industry. She featured in the short film The Things We Do For Love before shifting her focus to modelling, presenting, and journalism.
The soap star spent a number of years as a film columnist for the weekly newspaper News of the World, before taking on the role of stylist editor at the glamorous Wedding Day magazine.
Shebah Ronay is married to Jonathan Yeo (Image: Dave M. Benett, Getty Images)
She is wedded to artist Jonathan Yeo, with whom she shares two children. The artist specialises in portraiture, with his celebrated work including King Charles III and Sir David Attenborough.
Shebah also has notable family connections, being the granddaughter of Hungarian-born food critic Egon Ronay and the daughter of fashion designer and former actress Edina Ronay.
Sheridan Smith stars in ITV’s new four-part series, I Fought The Law, as Ann Ming, whose daughter, Julie Hogg, was tragically strangled to death by Billy Dunlop
Billy Dunlop murdered Julie Hogg in 1989(Image: No credit)
Ann Ming’s relentless fight for justice for daughter is nothing short of remarkable. On 16 November 1989, Billy Dunlop, 25, strangled 22-year-old mum-of-one, Julie Hogg, to death – and hid her corpse behind a bath panel in her home in County Durham.
Julie was tragically found decomposing by her mother, Ann, 80 days later and, despite evidence against Dunlop, juries twice failed to find him guilty of the crime.
However, while serving a prison sentence for unrelated violent offences, Dunlop confessed to Julie’s death. But there was a twist: under the centuries-old double jeopardy rule, he couldn’t be tried again for the same crime.
Jack James Ryan stars as Billy Dunlop in ITV’s I Fought the Law(Image: ITV)
However, for Ann, played by Sheridan Smith in ITV’s new adaptation of the tragedy, I Fought the Law, giving up wasn’t an option. She petitioned politicians for more than a decade, lobbied the media and refused to let Julie’s case go unheard, with unwavering support from her husband Charlie, played by Daniel York Loh, in the crime drama.
So, as we wait to watch the four-part series, which starts on ITV at 9pm tonight, here’s the chilling discoveries that lead to Dunlop’s arrest and eventual life imprisonment…
Ann Ming finds her daughter’s body
When Julie disappeared from her home in November 1989, leaving behind her toddler son Kevin. Her mother, Ann, immediately sensed something awful had happened.
Three months later, her maternal instincts were tragically vindicated. She discovered Julie’s body, hidden under the bath at her home.
Julie Hogg’s body was tragically found by her mother, Ann Ming(Image: No credit)
Ann agreed that her daughter’s husband, who Julie had been in the process of separating from when she was killed, could move back into her daughter’s house with their three-year-old son, Kevin.
However, when her son-in-law went inside the home, he complained a strange smell was coming from the bathroom. Ann noticed the bath panel was loose and pulled it away, uncovering her daughter’s body, wrapped in a blanket: “That was the start of a living nightmare,” she said.
Chilling evidence heard at trial
Dunlop, who knew Julie from their local area and visited her at home after a day’s drinking before killing the mum-of-one, went on trial at Newcastle Crown Court on 7 May 1991, where a jury heard that there was finger print evidence on Julie’s keys.
Dunlop’s sperm was also on the blanket he’d wrapped her in, and there were fibres from the jumper he’d been wearing.
The prosecution team felt it was strong enough evidence to satisfy a jury – but, sadly, they were mistaken. The jury failed to reach a verdict and the judge ordered a retrial for 3 October 1991.
Dunlop’s defence team tried to then convince the jury that Julie had died of natural causes following a consensual act between her and Dunlop. However, they failed to reach a verdict for a second time and Dunlop was acquitted and could never be trialled again due to the double jeopardy law and walked away a free man.
Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming(Image: ITV)
Dunlop confesses
While serving a prison sentence for unrelated violent offences after the trial, Dunlop confessed to Julie’s killing. But there was a twist: under the centuries-old double jeopardy rule, he couldn’t be tried again for the same crime.
The police wanted to arrest him for perjury, but needed more evidence than just an admission.
As a result, a female prison officer wore a wire and obtained 90 hours of material about what happened on the night of Hogg’s death. He was arrested, pleaded guilty to the murder, and jailed for six years to be served consecutively to his existing sentence.
Ann’s battle for justice – ‘For once in my life, I’m speechless’
Driven by grief and determination, Ann launched a 15-year campaign to overturn the centuries-old double jeopardy law – which once prevented a person from being tried twice for the same crime.
Of course, Ann wasn’t satisfied with Dunlop’s perjury sentence and asked her MP, Frank Cook, to help her meet Home Secretary Jack Straw to scrap the double jeopardy law. He recommended she speak to the Law Commission and, in 2002, her 13 years of campaigning finally came to fruition.
Ann Ming’s relentless fight for justice for daughter is nothing short of remarkable(Image: PA)
A white paper advising changes be made to the legislation, to affect both future and retrospective cases, was presented in parliament by David Blunkett, and in April 2005, the 800-year-old law was binned for good. Ann told reporters at the time: “I just can’t believe it. For once in my life I’m speechless.”
In September 2006, Dunlop went on trial at the Old Bailey and was found guilty and sentenced to life behind bars. All his requests for parole and to be moved to an open prison have been denied.
Heartbeat was a staple of British television for nearly two decades. So what happened to the likes of Nick Berry, Tricia Penrose, and Mark Jordan after the North Yorkshire-based show ended?
Kelly Smith Screen Time Reporter
10:38, 13 Aug 2025
The beloved ITV series spanned 18 seasons, and despite ending in 2010, the long-standing police period drama Heartbeat is still a cornerstone of British television to this day.
Airing for nearly two decades, the show spawned numerous spin-offs and one-off television specials, which is a true reflection of its popularity with viewers.
Fans followed the lives of those who lived in the fictional North Yorkshire village of Aidensfield during the 1960s and the well-respected local policemen and villagers as they grappled with crime, community tensions, and personal dramas.
In the very beginning, we were met with the charming PC Nick Rowan, played by Nick Berry, who was attempting to adapt to his new rural lifestyle after moving from London and joining the Yorkshire force.
With the show off air for more than 15 years now, we couldn’t help but wonder what the actors of the much-loved programme are doing today.
PC Nick Rowan
Nick gave up acting to spend time with family(Image: Photo by Colin Davey/Getty Images)
Nick Berry portrayed the renowned London police constable who relocated to the fictional town of Aidensfield, North Yorkshire, to live a more peaceful life after fleeing bustling London.
He moved to the village alongside his wife, Dr. Kate Rowan, and the pair very quickly became vital members of the town, helping to tackle crime and assisting with medical emergencies.
Notably, Nick also performed the show’s iconic theme tune, a cover of the Buddy Holly hit that shared its title with the show also helped to rocket his fame with the track reaching number two in the UK singles charts in 1992.
In 1998, viewers were left gutted when his character was written out of the beloved programme. The policeman decided to flee for Canada to join the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which formed the basis for the one-off special Heartbeat: Changing Places.
He went on to further his acting career, taking on a vital role in the 1999 drama series Harbour Lights and starring in the 2001 crime drama In Deep.
After In Deep finished in 2003, Nick announced he’d be taking a break from acting to focus on his family and other ventures, including his own production company.
Prior to landing his role as Nick Berry on the popular ITV series, he’d actually played the part of Simon Wicks on BBC One’s hit soap EastEnders.
Despite taking a break from acting, he did go on to make a special appearance as his former character, Simon, in 2012, which was his last and final TV stint since being on screens from 1976.
It is well documented that Nick married Rachel Robertson in 1994. The pair like to keep their private lives out of the spotlight. They share two sons and live in Epping, Essex.
Gina Bellamy
Tricia met her real life love on set(Image: ITV)
The landlady of the Aidensfield Arms, Gina Bellamy, was played by Tricia Penrose from 1993 until the ITV drama came to its end in 2010.
Tricia played a vital role and was the show’s longest-serving female cast member. Not only was Gina a popular fixture on the programme for 60s fashion and her incredible acting skills, but she also gave fans some amazing vocal performances during her long-standing career
In 2002, Tricia followed the path of her co-star Nick Berry and tried her hand in the singing world. She placed second on the show A Song For Europe, the UK’s competition to select their Eurovision entry.
Despite her song DJ Romeo being a huge hit with fans and judges, she was pipped to first place by Jessica Garlick, who represented Great Britain that year in the Eurovision Song Contest.
Her last notable acting role was in the popular legal drama Justice in 2011, but she has also appeared in series 11 of Celebrity Big Brother and ITV’s Who’s Doing the Dishes in 2014.
Tricia also got engaged to her on-screen love interest, PC Phil Bellamy, and the twosome recently announced their engagement on social media.
The actress shared: “My lovely Chris has proposed on our 7 year anniversary! Off to Tenerife now with my lovely fiancé to celebrate Mark Jordon.”
PC Phil Bellamy
Mark is engaged to co-star Tricia in real life
Mark Jordan played the charming, laid-back PC Phil Bellamy, who worked alongside Nick Berry and fell in love with Gina, not only on screen but also in real life.
He joined the show for its first series in 1992 and remained in the cast for fifteen years. A one-off documentary commemorating his departure, Heartbeat – Farewell Phil, was broadcast on Christmas Day in 2007.
After his departure, Mark took up roles in medical drama Casualty in 2009 and joined Hollyoaks in 2012.
He also became a series regular in Emmerdale in 2017, taking the role of Staff Sergeant Daz Spencer.
In his spare time, Mark is devoted to his charity work for Usher syndrome and often uses his social media pages to raise awareness, in the hope of finding a cure
Alf Ventress
William Simons sadly passed away(Image: ITV)
William Simons landed the accolade for the longest-standing member of the Heartbeat tribe, delighting viewers with his portrayal of the retired policeman for a complete 18-season journey.
Before his role on the ITV drama, William appeared in the police drama Cribb in 1979 and the detective series The Inspector Alleyn Mysteries in 1990.
His acting contributions also included various cameo appearances on programmes such as Coronation Street, The Darling Buds of May, Casualty, and Enemy at the Door.
In 2019, it was announced that William had tragically died at the age of 79 of “natural causes” with his management agency paying tribute.
They said: “He was a wonderful, kind, warm, witty, lovely human being and anyone who ever worked with him or knew him will be devastated.”
Every Heartbeat fan had a love-hate relationship with the charming scoundrel Claude Jeremiah Greengrass, played by the talented Bill Maynard.
He joined the programme from its very inception and remained a valued part of the cast until 2000, when his character returned for the Royal spin-off series in 2002.
Before his days on Heartbeat, Bill had already been somewhat of a TV legend as an actor and comedian and having starred in Great Scott – It’s Maynard! the 50s with Terry Scott, and featured in five pictures from the Carry On comedy series.
In 2018, we saw Bill in his last TV appearance, taking part in the Celebrity Pointless, before his tragic death in the same year.
Bill’s last TV appearance was on an episode of Celebrity Pointless in 2018, before he suffered a tragic fall, breaking his hip, and later sadly died that same year in hospital.
Dr. Kate Rowan
Niamh went on to have a flourishing acting career
Niamh Cusack played the lovable Dr. Kate Rowan, the village doctor and first wife of heartthrob Nick Berry. But after three years on the show, she fell pregnant and decided to leave the ITV drama to focus on becoming a new mum.
In real life, Niamh was born into a family with deep roots within the performing arts industry and is affiliated to the Royal Shakespeare Company, she played Desdemona in Othello and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet during the 80s.
She also landed the role of Lady Macbeth in 2018 alongside Christopher Eccleston in Macbeth. She has recently appeared in We Live in Time, last year, 2024, alongside Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, as well as the dark comedy series Big Mood, also in 2024.
Downton Abbey first premiered on ITV 15 years ago but was has the cast been up to since then?
11:46, 16 Jul 2025Updated 11:46, 16 Jul 2025
Downton Abbey made its debut on ITV screens in 2010(Image: ITV)
The beloved ITV drama Downton Abbey has held a cherished spot in the hearts of telly enthusiasts since its debut in 2010, and it’s no surprise that viewers are clamouring for more. Set between 1912 and 1926, this British series is centred around the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey, tracing the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their domestic staff.
Featuring a roster of adored television actors, the programme delves into several pivotal historical events, such as the First World War, the Spanish flu pandemic, the Irish War of Independence, and the decline of the British aristocracy. Downton Abbey garnered worldwide praise, captivating audiences and critics alike, and securing numerous award nominations, including Golden Globes and Primetime Emmy Awards.
Following its conclusion in 2015, the show’s extraordinary success led to the production of two feature films in 2019 and 2022, with a third one anticipated to grace the screens in 2025.
Given the extensive cast, it’s hardly shocking that many have gone on to achieve significant success on the telly or have emerged as rising stars in the realm of television and cinema. Below we delve into what the cast of Downton Abbey is doing now, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Hugh’s performance in Downton Abbey was widely acclaimed(Image: Ian West/PA Wire)
Hugh Bonneville – Robert Crawley, Lord Grantham
Lord Grantham, the head of the Crawley family, was profoundly dedicated to his ancestral home at Downton and was committed to preserving the estate for future generations.
Hugh’s performance in Downton Abbey was widely acclaimed, earning him two Emmy nominations and a nod from the Golden Globes.
Post-Downton, Hugh has remained a fixture on British telly, while also making waves in Hollywood with roles such as Henry Brown in the Paddington films, Muppets Most Wanted and Bank of Dave.
He recently graced our screens in The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin, Douglas Is Cancelled and the BBC drama The Gold.
Laura Carmichael – Lady Edith Crawley
The empathetic Edith had no desire for marriage but was keen to carve out her own career in journalism. She suffered her fair share of heartbreak – being left at the altar by Sir Anthony Strallan and losing her second fiancé Michael Gregson.
Beyond Downton, Laura has appeared in dramas like Marcella, The Spanish Princess and The Secrets She Keeps.
Off-screen, Laura is in a relationship with her Downton Abbey co-star Michael C. Fox, and they have a son together.
Michelle Dockery – Lady Mary Josephine Talbot
At first, Lady Mary was a petulant and frosty young woman, but as the series unfolded, she displayed more vulnerability and kindness. Tragically, she lost her husband Matthew following the birth of their son, and later married racing driver Henry.
Michelle has taken on roles in Anatomy of a Scandal, This Town, Godless and Good Behaviour (Image: Gareth Cattermole/Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Focus Features)
Since her Downton days, Michelle Dockery has taken on roles in Anatomy of a Scandal, This Town, Godless, Good Behaviour and the films The Gentlemen and Here.
Michelle is currently wed to Jasper Waller-Bridge, brother of Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Dame Maggie Smith – Violet Crawley
Dame Maggie Smith had already cemented her status as acting royalty with her portrayal of Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series and her dual Oscar wins for The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie and California Suite.
In her later years, she was honoured in the documentary Nothing Like a Dame alongside Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins and Joan Plowright. Her recent works include A Boy Called Christmas and The Miracle Club.
The much-loved actress sadly passed away at 89 in September last year.
Jessica Brown Findlay – Lady Sybil Crawley
Jessica was selected to play Lady Sybil Crawley, the youngest and most progressive of the Grantham daughters. She is the family’s most politically active member and strongly advocates for treating Downton’s staff as equals.
Fans will remember Sybil’s romance with the family’s chauffeur, Thomas Branson, and its tragic conclusion.
Since her Downton days, Jessica has graced our screens in a variety of TV shows including BBC One’s Jamaica Inn, The Outcast, Harlots, and Netflix’s Castlevania. She is set to star in ITVX’s drama Playing Nice and Mother Mary in the forthcoming period.
Her other roles include Elizabeth in The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, Linder Sterling in England Is Mine and Munich: The Edge of War.
Dan Stevens – Matthew Reginald Crawley
Matthew Reginald Crawley, a middle-class distant relative of the Crawleys, became the heir to the estate in the first episode and subsequently moved to Downton. He was paralysed from the waist down during the First World War but recovered and married Lady Mary.
Dan has had roles in Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga and Legion
Tragically, he died in a car accident while driving home from the hospital. He left his share of Downton to Mary.
Dan has since carved out a successful career in film and TV, with roles in Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, FX series Legion, animated series Solar Opposites and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.
Elizabeth McGovern – Cora Crawley
Known as the Countess of Grantham, she was the wealthy American heiress who helped save Downton. Compassionate Cora opened up Downton to soldiers during the First World War and served on the hospital board.
The American actress reprised her role for the Downton Abbey films and also appeared in the film The Chaperone. Elizabeth has also pursued her musical interests with band Sadie and the Hotheads.
Elizabeth is wed to British film director and producer Simon Curtis, who helmed the 2022 film and its yet-to-be-named sequel slated for release in 2025.
Lily James – Lady Rose Aldridge/MacClare
Audiences witnessed Lady Rose frequently at odds with others and maintaining a strained relationship with her mother. As the series unfolded, Rose matured and tied the knot with Atticus Aldridge, son of Lord and Lady Sinderby, and they have a daughter together.
Lily was nominated for a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award for her depiction of Pamela Anderson(Image: Ian West//PA Wire)
Lily, who initially rose to fame during her time on Downton Abbey, later received nominations for a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award for her depiction of Pamela Anderson in Pam and Tommy. The British actress has also featured in films such as The Dig, The Iron Claw, Baby Driver, Yesterday and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.
Jim Carter – Charles Carson
As the butler in Downton, audiences quickly warmed to Charles’ professionalism, charisma and loyalty to the family. He was an invaluable aid to the family, particularly supporting Lady Mary through her period of mourning over Matthew.
The seasoned actor, known for his stage and TV roles before joining Downton Abbey, saw his career continue to flourish after the series. He appeared in Transformers: The Last Knight, The Good Liar, The Sea Beast and Wonka.
Jim has also lent his voice to numerous historical documentaries about Stonehenge, the Royal family, World War II and the National Trust.
Joanne Froggatt – Anna Bates
Anna Bates, portrayed by Joanne Froggatt, was a central character in Downton Abbey, involved in some of the most emotional and gripping storylines, including love, marriage, and loss, all while serving Lady Mary Crawley and her family.
Joanne’s heartfelt performance earned her three Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe award.
Since leaving Downton, Joanne has voiced the character Wendy in Bob the Builder and appeared in TV shows such as Liar, Angela Black, Sherwood, and North Shore. She also reprised her role for the Downton Abbey films.
The Post Office Horizon IT scandal dominates many of Wednesday’s front pages, with the first report from the official inquiry finding it had a “disastrous” impact on those wrongly accused and prosecuted for criminal offences. Sir Wyn Williams’ report found at least 59 people had contemplated suicide at various points, of whom 10 attempted to take their own lives, and more than 13 people may have killed themselves over the scandal.
The Daily Mail leads on the reaction to Sir Wyn’s report as campaigners say the Post Office has “blood on its hands”. Catherine, Princess of Wales, also graces the front page as she attends the state banquet for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte at Windsor Castle.
The Post Office scandal is also splashed across the Daily Express, highlighting the impact it had on the lives of those caught up in it. And while Catherine is featured too, the paper is pointing out her “new look hairstyle” ahead of the state banquet. A tribute to the late Norman Tebbit, who served as a cabinet minister in Margaret Thatcher’s government, is also featured at the bottom of the page.
The Horizon scandal is covered on the front page of the Times, but it is the vote for strike action from resident doctors in England that is leading the paper. The government made clear a pay rise was off the table after the British Medical Association said 55% of its 48,000 resident doctor members had voted in the ballot with 90% supporting industrial action. The doctors were awarded a 5.4% pay rise for this financial year, following a 22% increase over the previous two years. The Prince and Princess of Wales are pictured together for the state banquet for Macron, who earlier warned that Britain and France were dangerously dependent on the US.
The Metro also leads on the first volume of Sir Wyn’s report on the Horizon scandal, which found victims had divorced, suffered serious mental health issues and alcohol addiction as a result of their ordeals. The Post Office apologised “unreservedly” and said it would carefully consider the findings.
Macron’s state visit to the UK and a proposed deal on the small boats crisis lead the Daily Telegraph. The paper reports that the French president is demanding Sir Keir Starmer make Britain less appealing to Channel migrants to secure a “one in, one out” agreement. Gregg Wallace’s sacking from MasterChef is also covered on the front page. The presenter was fired as a result of an inquiry into alleged misconduct, BBC News understands. It comes as 50 more people have approached the BBC with fresh claims about the TV presenter. Wallace denies the claims.
The Sun has splashed Wallace’s sacking on the front page, with the presenter accusing BBC News of “uncorroborated tittle tattle” in its reporting. The inquiry into allegations against him, conducted by an independent law firm on behalf of MasterChef’s production company Banijay, is expected to report back imminently. In a lengthy statement on Instagram on Tuesday, Wallace said he had been cleared by that report of “the most serious and sensational allegations” made against him. BBC News has not seen the Banijay report.
Wallace insists he won’t be “cancelled” after his sacking, the Daily Star reports on its front page. For 20 years, Wallace was one of the most high-profile presenters on British television and the face of the BBC One cooking show. But he stepped aside from the show in November after the BBC’s initial investigation at the end of last year, when 13 people accused him of making inappropriate sexual comments.
The Guardian is leading its front page with plans to be published on Wednesday designed to save the criminal justice system from total collapse. The paper reports that thousands of cases that would normally be heard in front of a jury should be decided by judges alone, according to recommendations made by a former senior judge. Sir Brian Leveson was asked by the Lord Chancellor to come up with a series of proposals to reduce the backlog of cases in the criminal courts. There are almost 77,000 cases waiting for trial in the Crown Court in England and Wales – meaning some defendants and victims are waiting years for justice.
The Financial Times is leading with a debt warning from the independent budget watchdog, which says the UK faces “daunting” risks to the public finances. The OBR says the country’s soaring debt load has led to “substantial erosion” of its capacity to respond to future shocks.
The OBR’s report also leads the front page of the i Paper. The UK state pension triple lock must go, says the watchdog, arguing it has made public finances “unsustainable”. The triple lock guarantees that the state pension rises each year in line with either inflation, wage increases or 2.5% – whichever is the highest. It meant the state pension rose by 4.1% in April 2025.
Sunday Brunch was back on our screens this morning (6th July) and it wasn’t long before hosts Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer were forced to address some ‘tragic news’
Sunday Brunch presenter Tim Lovejoy brought the programme to an abrupt stop shortly after it began, as he delivered some “tragic news”.
The television favourite made his comeback on our screens this Sunday (6th July) morning with co-host Simon Rimmer, as they invited a host of celebrities into the renowned kitchen.
But just a few minutes into the broadcast, Tim paused to pay tribute to Diogo Jota. The Liverpool footballer was tragically killed in a car crash, with the devastating news breaking less than two weeks following his nuptials.
In the wake of the tragedy, fans have been sharing their deep sorrow, prompting Tim and Simon to dedicate Sunday Brunch’s opening segment to the late sportsman, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Addressing the audience at home and those present in the studio, Tim said: “Before we get on with the show, there has been some really tragic news this week about Diogo Jota, and being a Liverpool fan…”
Tim and Simon dedicating the opening segment of Sunday brunch to the football star(Image: Channel 4)
Simon interjected: “It’s shocking. Pete and I were talking in makeup. A human tragedy, a 28-year-old man, who has just got married and had two young children. I think the way in which the football community has come together is very very powerful.”
Directing the conversation towards Peter Hooton, one of the day’s guests, Simon asked: “What do you think Pete?”
The singer, a devoted Liverpool supporter, expressed: “The way people have rallied round. It’s an absolutely devastating thing for everyone, for the family, for Liverpool fans and just football in general. You can see that with the Club World Cup, with all the tributes in America.”
Former footballer Stuart Douglas confessed: “I couldn’t believe it when I saw it and it just overshadowed everything and that became more important than anything else.”
The Liverpool footballer was tragically killed in a car accident(Image: Getty Images)
He elaborated: “More important than the World Cup, more important than the Euros because someone has lost their life and for the brothers I cannot imagine how his family are feeling. It’s so sad.”
Tim chimed in with a heartfelt message: “Yes, thoughts go out to their family.”
Tragically, the 28 year old and his brother were involved in a fatal car crash in Spain, with the Guardia Civil stating: “The information we have so far is that the car, which was a Lamborghini, was in a road traffic accident and left the road due to a tyre blowout while overtaking.”
They added: “It was in the early hours, 00:30 BST, in the municipality of Cernadilla in the province of Zamora. The car caught on fire, and the two occupants were killed.”
Sunday Brunch airs from 10am on Channel 4 every Sunday
Netflix has added a new true crime series to its collection that has been described as ‘essential viewing’ and ‘a shocking documentary that everyone’s got to see’
Netflix fans have been impressed by a new true crime documentary branded as ‘essential viewing’ (stock photo)(Image: gorodenkoff via Getty Images)
Netflix has released a gripping new true crime documentary, hailed as ‘essential viewing’ and available for a limited time only. The platform, renowned for its compelling documentaries, is kicking off the month with fresh additions to its library, including a series that’s bound to have viewers glued to their screens.
The four-part series, Attack on London: Hunting the 7/7 Bombers, revisits the harrowing terror attacks on London’s transport system two decades ago, featuring first-hand accounts and previously unseen footage. It delves into the tragic events of July 7, 2005, when four suicide bombers launched an attack on the capital’s transport network, resulting in the deaths of 52 people and injuries to more than 770 others.
The British Transport Police (BTP) revealed at the time that three explosions occurred on the London Underground around 8.50am near Aldgate, Edgware Road, and Russell Square stations.
A fourth bomb detonated at 9.47am aboard a bus rerouted through Tavistock Square, close to the BTP’s headquarters at the time.
Luke Eccleston, a movie and TV content creator, took to TikTok to recommend Attack on London: Hunting the 7/7 Bombers to his followers.
He urged: “Stop whatever you’re doing because Netflix have just dropped a brand new four-part limited series, and trust me when I say that this is an essential viewing. It’s a shocking documentary that everyone’s got to see.”
Luke shared insights into the intense Netflix documentary, detailing the harrowing terror attacks and subsequent investigation, featuring interviews with survivors and the prime minister at the time, Tony Blair.
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The TV fan praised the streaming giant’s work, saying: “Now, Netflix have done such a good job with this documentary, as it’s such a great and serious documentary where it [doesn’t just] delve into the actual original attacks, but [an incident] two weeks later [when] an innocent man was shot.
“It’s genuinely heartbreaking to see what happened and how it genuinely shocked London so please make sure you get this on your watch list.”
The tragic case of Jean Charles de Menezes – the 27-year-old misidentified as a terrorist involved in a failed attack later that month and fatally shot by police at Stockwell Underground station – is also covered in the documentary.
The perpetrators of the 7/7 bombings were eventually identified as Mohammad Sidique Khan, Shehzad Tanweer, Hasib Hussain, and Germaine Lindsay.
Luke’s TikTok followers echoed his recommendation, with comments pouring in about the documentary.
One viewer commented: “Great doc, binged it all already.” Another recommended it as a “must watch Netflix series.”
A third shared: “Watched the first two parts and great watch so far. Awful seeing what happened.”
HEARTBROKEN trainer Warren Greatrex has bravely opened up on the deaths of three young workers at his yard – remembering them all as ‘great lads’.
The Lambourn-based jumps trainer has had to be a father figure and counsellor for those rocked by the suicides of Michael Pitt, David Thompson and, most recently, Billy Moffatt.
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Billy Moffatt, who was in his early 20s when he was found dead, was the third yard worker for Warren Greatrex to take his own life in just four yearsCredit: Facebook
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Michael Pitt was found dead aged 19 in the first tragedy to rock the trainer’s stablesCredit: Hyde News & Pictures
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The Lambourn-based, Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer, said he considers himself a father figure to everyone who works for him – and worrying about them rather than himself is the only way to deal with such devastating lossesCredit: Rex
The huge Chelsea fan, who was reported missing in the days prior, had written a letter saying the happiest days of his life had been working for Greatrex, who said the second death ‘hit me so hard’.
Then in May this year, Moffatt, who was in his early 20s, was found dead in his accommodation – the third death in just four years.
Greatrex, a Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer, admitted he ‘never thought’ he would have to go through such shock and pain.
He told Luck on Sunday on Racing TV the passing of all three and the devastating impact on those who worked alongside them every day was still ‘raw’.
And he said to know the lads you would have had absolutely no idea any were struggling to the extent they were.
Explaining the magnitude of the losses and how best he tried to deal with it, an emotional Greatrex said: “I am the trainer so when I have a member of staff I am like a father figure as well.
“Parents entrust you to look after their children.
“I do feel responsible and all I am, and have been worried about, is everyone else.
“I never thought I’d have a situation like this.
“Even now it’s tough to talk about – but in the situation all you are worried about is everyone else.
“None of those three lads you would have had any idea that they would do that.
“All three lads were really good young men. They were funny, good to be around.
“Billy was a larger-than-life Newcastle lad who touched a lot of people because he was great fun to be around.
“But there aren’t any signs.”
Greatrex also spoke about the stresses and strains of working in the sport and how charity Racing Welfare have helped.
He said while ‘no words can describe the devastation’ of the deaths, Racing Welfare were at his yard ‘within minutes’ to offer support to those coming to terms with the losses.
His words pleading for more to be done with alcohol and drugs in racing came just days after champion jockey Oisin Murphy was charged with drink-driving ahead of his appearance at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Greatrex continued: “I think when you’re surrounded by young people there will be times when there will be drinking, there will be drug use – that’s just the way of the world now unfortunately.
“Maybe there is a way that people can recognise it (drug use) and help people with what they can and can’t do, or at least guide them in the right direction.
You’re Not Alone
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
“I always find when a member of staff comes into the yard I am responsible.
“But when they leave the yard I can’t keep an eye on them and have their back or look after them all the time.
“There will be times when members of staff come to speak to me or someone else senior like Tessa my wife, and of course we always do our best to help them.
“But when they leave the yard I am helpless.
“Still, I want them to be able to come to me.
“I am a father and when my children go anywhere, or to other yards, you want them to be looked after and navigated in the right direction.”
Greatrex will take part in a marathon hike in support of Racing Welfare on Sunday – donate to their cause HERE.
Emma Hickey and her partner Stephen Brougham took their two kids to Costa Adeje, Tenerife, Spain when the 42-year-old mum fell badly ill, prompting a trip to hospital
Hannah Robinson and Milo Boyd Digital Travel Reporter
14:50, 30 Jun 2025Updated 17:01, 30 Jun 2025
Emma Hickey was on family with her kids when disaster struck
A mum is fighting for her life after plummeting down hotel stairs and hitting her head.
Emma Hickey and her partner Stephen Brougham took their two kids to Costa Adeje, Tenerife, Spain, on June 13 for a sun-soaked 12-day getaway. Just 10 days into the trip, the mum-of-two woke up with a ‘really bad case’ of mosquito bites, so went to hospital and was prescribed injections
Despite feeling unwell for the next few days, the 42-year-old carer ‘soldiered through the holiday‘ for the sake of her kids. But as they walked down the hotel staircase on their way to a pharmacy on June 23, Emma complained of feeling dizzy before suddenly collapsing and falling head-first onto a concrete step.
Stephen, 44, says it was ‘horrific’ to watch his partner convulsing on the concrete steps after passing out. She was immediately rushed to hospital. A hospital CT scan revealed the mum-of-two had a brain bleed and neck fractures, so she was put in an induced coma.
Emma was badly bitten by the mosquitos (Image: Kennedy News and Media)
A friend of the family has set up a GoFundMe page to support plasterer Stephen and his two kids, while they are stranded in Tenerife waiting for Emma to recover. The dad-of-two says it could be ‘a very long time’ until his partner is well enough to fly home and he is unsure if the travel insurance will cover the soaring medical costs.
Stephen, from Dublin, Ireland, said: “We came away for a lovely family holiday and it’s been a living nightmare. She woke up with a really bad case of mosquito bites so we went to the local doctor and the doctors didn’t know what it was so they sent her to hospital
“The doctor there said they’d never seen a case of this mosquito bite in Spain before. She got a prescription and sent her away. For the next few days she wasn’t feeling well but was soldiering through the holiday for the sake of the kids trying to do what she could but she wasn’t herself.
Stephen said that his wife went for a nap on the 23rd, leaving him to take the kids out to lunch.
“She was up having a good sleep and she looked and seemed a lot better. She said she wouldn’t go to the hospital but would walk out to a pharmacy and see what they thought,” he continued.
“We walked out the back entrance of the hotel as there’s a shop and a pharmacy there. Street level is probably about four or five storeys up. She was feeling a bit dizzy and she collapsed and fell from the second last step of the upper staircase down below onto the other set of stairs head-first without raising her arm to protect herself.
Emma is now recovering in hospital(Image: Kennedy News and Media)
“She passed out on the steps and started convulsing, she was in a terrible state. It’s been horrific because I actually witnessed the fall and how bad the fall was. That’s a mental scar that I’ll never forget. Words can’t describe how bad it is.”
Stephen called an ambulance, which rushed his partner to hospital. A CT scan showed she had suffered a brain bleed and needed an operation. Doctors discovered some fractures in her neck. She was then put in an induced coma and will remain in intensive care until she wakes up.
Stephen said: “They did an operation and there were blood clots on the brain that had been putting some pressure on the brain. They’re not saying what impact the pressure on the brain of the blood clot will have after she comes round. “There could be secondary issues there so in the meantime she’s just been on the machine. She hasn’t felt well all week so we can only presume that the mosquito bites, the medication, the heat and the fact she tried to soldier through the holiday just for the sake of the kids [caused it].
Emma suffered a brain bleed after the fall(Image: Kennedy News and Media)
Emma has mosquito bites all over her body(Image: Kennedy News and Media)
“They were draining the life out of her and they’re all over her body, dozens and dozens. They looked uncomfortable and you could see that they were sore. They turned into bruises. I can only connect the two.”
Stephen, who is self-employed, and is searching for alternative accommodation for him and children Sophie Hickey, 13, and Bobby Hickey, 7, while they wait for Emma to recover. He is hoping the travel insurance will help the rising medical costs after reviewing her medical records.
“We know that hospital is $1,400 (£1,022) a day so we’re going to have a significant medical bill. The hotel we’re staying in at the moment is an expensive hotel. Then just feeding the kids and keeping them occupied. I’m not working now because I’m over here,” he said.
He’s now encouraging others to ensure they get travel insurance and to be aware of the dangers of insects abroad.
Lorraine Kelly sent a message of support on her ITV show to Kelsey Parker following the tragic loss of her stillborn son Phoenix Parker-Lindsay just weeks before her due date
Heartwarming tributes have poured in for the late Australian adult film star Koby Falks.
The tragic news was announced on 1 June via the 39-year-old’s Instagram account.
“Koby Falks passed away earlier this week. He was loved by many and will be missed. If this post has affected you, please reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14,” the post read.
Known as Anthony Cox to his family and friends, the Australian native made his debut in the adult film world in 2022.
Although his time in the industry was brief, he starred in 76 projects and amassed over 400,000 followers across Instagram, X, Facebook and YouTube.
He also led a fruitful career as a content creator on the subscription-based websites OnlyFans and JustForFans.
Since his tragic passing was announced, a handful of Koby’s peers, friends and fans have taken to social media to share heartbreaking tributes.
The late actor’s talent agent, Matthew Leigh, described him as “a light, a creative force, and a genuinely beautiful soul.”
“Though our time working together was brief, the impact Koby had was anything but small. From the moment we connected, I was struck by his warmth, his charisma and his incredible professionalism,” he wrote in a lengthy statement on Instagram.
“He was organised, kind-hearted, and deeply respectful. The kind of person you instantly felt grateful to work with. It was an honour to represent his remarkable body of work and to witness first-hand the power of his presence, both on and off-screen.
“His ability to connect with people, not just here in Australia but across the world, was something truly special. Never did I imagine I would be writing such a post, especially for someone I had the privilege of managing. And I sincerely hope I never have to again.”
OnlyFans star Keller Wolfe echoed similar sentiments, writing: “Rest in peace, mate. My thoughts are with your Partner, your family, your friends and loved ones during this impossible time.”
Lastly, Koby’s partner Sam Brownell celebrated the late talent’s life in a now-deleted Instagram story, writing, “I will love you always.”
As of writing, the official cause of death has not been revealed.
Days before his tragic passing, Koby took to Instagram and shared a photo of his younger self alongside a caption reflecting on his journey.
“Took me years to drop the act. Turns out, the scariest thing wasn’t being rejected—it was being seen. No more masks. No more performance. Just me, as I am. Raw. Real. Free. Yeah, I fucked up along the way. Yeah, I wore the armour a bit too long. But I never stopped searching for the bloke underneath it all,” he wrote.
“This is for the younger me who just wanted to be loved without pretending. And for anyone else out there still hiding— You don’t have to be a symbol. Just be you. Rough edges and all. That’s where the beauty is.”
Our thoughts are with Koby’s family and friends during this unthinkable time.
MICHAEL Schumacher’s former boss has given rare insight into the F1 legend’s condition – 12 years after the skiing accident that changed his life.
While the German seven-time world champion, now 56, hasn’t been seen in public since 2013, his Benetton manager says he speaks often with Schumacher’s family.
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Flavio Briatore (right) has revealed insight into the health of F1 icon Michael Schumacher (left)Credit: Press Association
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Schumacher pictured on the shoulders of Briatore and race director Tom Walkinshaw after his 1994 World Championship victory has not been seen since 2013Credit: Alamy
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His wife Corinna gave an update on his health in a rare 2021 documentaryCredit: Alamy
Flavio Briatore, 75, led the Benetton F1 team during Schumacher’s breakthrough years, playing a key role in his first two world championships.
Briatore appeared to confirm to an Italian newspaper that Schumacher is bed-bound, amid scarce details of his condition due to the family’s commitment to privacy.
“If I close my eyes,” he told Corriere della Sera, “I see him smiling after a victory.
“I prefer to remember him like that rather than him just lying on a bed. Corinna and I talk often, though.”
“Only three people can visit him and I know who they are.”
Claims that Schumacher can no longer speak were echoed by his son Mick in a 2021 Netflixdocumentary about his father’s life.
The 26-year-old driver said: “I think dad and me, we would understand each other now in a different way now.”
In the 2021 documentary, Corinna gave a rare update, revealing Schumacher is still undergoing rehabilitation and is “different, but here” following his life-changing injuries.
What do we know about Schumacher since his accident?
MICHAEL Schumacher’s life changed forever on December 29, 2013, when a skiing accident left the seven-time F1 champion with a severe brain injury.
Since then, his family has protected his privacy, with only a select few remaining in contact with the racing legend.
December 29, 2013 – The skiing accident: Schumacher suffers a life-threatening head injury while skiing off-piste in Méribel, France. He falls and hits his head on a rock, causing severe brain trauma despite wearing a helmet. He is airlifted to a hospital in Grenoble, where he undergoes two emergency surgeries. Doctors place him in a medically induced coma to reduce swelling in his brain.
January 2014 – Schumacher fights for his life: Schumacher remains in a coma. Doctors describe his condition as “critical but stable”. His family, led by wife Corinna, remains at his bedside. The world’s F1 community rallies behind him, with fans holding vigils outside the hospital.
June 2014 – Schumacher brought out of his coma: After nearly six months, Schumacher is brought out of his coma. His family confirms he is no longer in a coma but gives no further health details. He is transferred from Grenoble to a rehabilitation facility in Lausanne, Switzerland.
September 2014 – Back home: Schumacher is moved to his family home near Lake Geneva. Corinna announces he will continue his recovery at home, with a dedicated medical team.
2015–2018 – Mystery surrounding his health: Reports suggest Schumacher is receiving round-the-clock medical care at home, costing £50,000 per week. Jean Todt reveals he still visits Schumacher and that they watch F1 races together.
May 2017– German magazine sued by Schumacher’s family: The magazine Bunte has to pay Michael Schumacher €50,000 (£42,000) in damages after claiming in 2015 that Schumacher would walk again. The Hamburg regional court determined that the statement was false and infringed upon Schumacher’s right to privacy.
September 2019 – Schumacher secretly transferred to Paris: French media reports that Schumacher is taken to Paris for stem cell therapy at the Georges-Pompidou Hospital. The procedure is led by renowned surgeon Dr. Philippe Menasché. Details of the treatment remain undisclosed.
December 2019 – Manager issues rare statement: Schumacher’s longtime manager Sabine Kehm says his condition will remain private. She dismisses speculation and false reports about his health.
September 2021 – Netflix documentary “Schumacher” released: A new Netflix documentary, Schumacher, provides rare insights into his life. Corinna speaks publicly about his condition for the first time, saying: “Michael is here. Different, but he’s here, and that gives us strength.”
December 2023 – 10 years since the accident: Schumacher turns 55. The anniversary of his accident is marked by tributes from the F1 world. Jean Todt confirms he still sees Schumacher regularly and describes his visits as “full of affection”.
September 2024 – Daughter Gina’s wedding: Gina Schumacher, 27, marries longtime boyfriend Iain Bethke at the family’s £27million Majorca villa. Reports claim Schumacher attends the wedding, but close friend Johnny Herbert later calls it “A1 fake news”. Guests are reportedly required to hand over their phones to prevent leaks.
December 2024 – Schumacher to become a grandfather: Gina announces she is pregnant, three months after her wedding. She shares the news on Instagram, writing: “Impatiently awaiting the arrival of our little girl.”
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Schumacher’s initials ‘M.S’ can be seen signed on the bottom part of the helmet belonging to fellow F1 icon Sir Jackie StewartCredit: Matt Wardle and Bell Racing
Emotional moment Michael Schumacher’s son and Sebastian Vettel pay tribute to stricken F1 legend
Johnny Herbert, Schumacher’s teammate at Benetton between 1994 to 1995, described the signature as an “emotional” moment.
He told FastSlots: “It’s wonderful news that Michael Schumacher signed Jackie Stewart‘s helmet. It was a wonderful moment.
“We haven’t seen something emotional like this in years, and hopefully, it’s a sign.
“Hopefully, Michael is on the mend. It’s been a long, horrible journey for the family, and maybe we’ll hopefully see him in the F1 paddock soon.”
Schumacher is one of the most successful F1 drivers of all time, winning world titles in 1994, 1995 and five consecutive years from 2000 to 2004.
He also racked up 71 fastest laps and 155 podiums during his racing career.
When asked who the greatest driver of all time is, Briatore told Corriere de Sera: “I don’t know who the greatest is, because we’ve had Schumacher, Senna, Alonso.
“Now, the number one is definitely (Max) Verstappen. I have two cars at Alpine, so I would like to have two Verstappens.”
