urgent

A funny thing blocked the path to another Andrew Friedman midsummer triumph.

An Andrew Friedman midsummer failure.

The Dodgers and their renowned baseball boss came to bat at baseball’s trade deadline Thursday poised to knock another fat midseason pitch out of the park en route to a second consecutive World Series championship.

They never took the bat off their shoulder.

Strike out, staring.

The Dodgers needed a proven closer. Six teams picked up proven closers. The Dodgers weren’t one of them.

Mason Miller went to the San Diego Padres, Camilo Doval to the New York Yankees, Griffin Jax to the Tampa Bay Rays, Ryan Helsley to the New York Mets, Jhoan Duran to the Philadelphia Phillies and David Bednar to the New York Yankees.

Some other reliever went to the Dodgers. I think his name was Brock Stewart or something.

How does this make sense? Are they watching what we’re watching?

So you’re telling me they must forge ahead through the rest of the season hoping that Tanner Scott gets healthy or Kirby Yates gets consistent or Blake Treinen gets younger or, heck, maybe the Boston Red Sox cut Walker Buehler and he comes back for one more ninth inning! That’s crazy, but this entire situation is crazy, a $400-million roster with nobody to pitch the last out.

The Dodger also entered Thursday needing a defensive-minded outfielder. Four teams found one. The Dodgers did not.

Harrison Bader went to the Phillies, Mike Yastrzemski and Randal Grichuk to the Kansas City Royals, Austin Slater to the Yankees and Cedric Mullins to the Mets.

The Dodgers picked up an outfielder named Alex…is it Call?

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So now Dodger fans are haunted with the fear that Michael Conforto will lose a fly ball down the left-field line on Halloween with the season on the line.

This is all so weird. This is all so, well, arrogant.

Granted, the Dodgers have baseball’s best team on paper, but they’ve had its best team for several years and that hasn’t stopped Friedman from dominating the last week in July.

One could argue that Friedman actually won last year’s championship by brilliantly acquiring Jack Flaherty and Tommy Edman and Michael Kopech at the deadline.

This has always been Friedman’s strength, humbly adding talent to a group already possessing riches of talent.

Remember, this is the time of year he also once traded for Rich Hill, Yu Darvish, Manny Machado, Max Scherzer, Trea Turner and Evan Phillips, all of whom led them deep into the playoffs.

The only two years during which Friedman has fumbled the deadline? He failed to acquire pitching in 2022 and they were beaten by the Padres. He brought in only Lance Lynn in 2023 and they were swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks.

This suddenly feels like one of those years.

“We felt like this is an incredibly talented group that, as we get healthy and these guys hit their stride, we feel like we’re in a great position for another deep run into October,” general manager Brandon Gomes said on a conference call with reporters.

In other words, they think they’re good enough that they don’t need to trade any top prospects for win-now talent.

But are they? And even if they are, why take a chance?

Mookie Betts reacts after striking out against the Milwaukee Brewers on July 20.

(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

If there’s anything the first 109 games of this season has taught us is that the Dodgers’ greatness, like all greatness in a sport that hasn’t had consecutive champions in a quarter of a decade, can be fleeting.

The window suddenly seems to be slowly closing on the Hall of Fame careers of Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. Shohei Ohtani has been so physically stressed that he’s leaving games with cramps.

Teoscar Hernández doesn’t look like last year’s revelation. Max Muncy can’t stay on the field. And Edman is batting aches that may last all season.

The rotation is also shaky, with fragile Tyler Glasnow and aging Clayton Kershaw and underwhelming Roki Sasaki and injured Blake Snell and, really, just one sure-fire starter is Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

“Obviously there was a lot of action today throughout the game, and a lot of teams improved, but we feel really good about this group,” Gomes said. “Coming into the year, felt like this was as talented of a roster as we’ve ever had. We’re in a position where we’re in first place, and I don’t even think we’ve played our best baseball yet. So as we continue to get some of our starters back, and then adding these pieces, and our guys just kind of playing up to their potential, we feel like it’s still a really, really strong team, and we don’t feel any differently about our aspirations than we did at the beginning of the year.”

Through their stunning inaction Thursday, the Dodger clearly made the statement that they’re good enough to a championship without any more help.

All those teams that greatly improved don’t agree.

The baseball world is sensing a Dodger vulnerability, as if there’s blue blood in the water.

Given a chance to dissuade everyone of that notion the Dodgers sighed, shrugged and passed.

A strikeout of a day, a turning point of a season?

The Foreign Office has issued a travel advisory for anyone headed to Vietnam as popular tourist destinations including Hanoi are set to be affected by heavy rainfall with the arrival of Storm Wipha

Tourists planning to visit Southeast Asia this week have been issued a travel warning ahead of Storm Wipha’s descent on the region. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned on Monday, July 21 that the typhoon is heading for northern Vietnam, and is likely to lead to flooding and mudslides in affected areas.

Tropical storm Wipha made landfall in northern Vietnam on Tuesday July 22 – in alignment with the forecast shared by the FCDO. Wipha hit the provinces of Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa early on Tuesday afternoon and authorities remain on alert due to heavy rains. The FCDO has named specific popular tourist destinations as affected areas, including Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and Ninh Binh.

READ MORE: Doomed Vietnam tourist boat passengers begged to return to shore before 38 died

Wipha has already ravaged southern China but wind speeds have weakened since its descent on Vietnam according to the national weather forecasting agency.

The FCDO warned travellers to Vietnam: “You should expect heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding and mudslides in affected areas in the days after landfall. You should expect travel disruption and should follow advice from local authorities.”

The FCDO also advises that travellers can receive regular news updates in English via VNexpress and Vietnam News. Additionally, travellers can sign up to get email notifications when the FCDO updates its travel advice for Vietnam.

A number of flights in Vietnam were cancelled ahead of Wipha’s arrival. Vietnam Airlines announced on Monday that it would be cancelling several flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong to “ensure the safety of passengers and crew”.

Meanwhile, Pacific Airlines rescheduled two flights, between Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong, to depart earlier than planned, while two more flights on the same route were cancelled.

On Tuesday, all flights operated by Vietnam Airlines Group, including Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines, to and from Hai Phong were moved to depart in the afternoon. The group said: “Vietnam Airlines Group regrets the schedule changes caused by this force majeure weather event and appreciates our passengers’ understanding.

“Flight times may continue to be adjusted depending on the storm’s progression. Updated information will be communicated via the airline’s official channels and passenger contact details provided in booking records.”

The new tropical storm is set to strike just days after a tourist boat carrying as many as 53 people capsized in stormy weather in Vietnam on Saturday, July 19. Of the 53 people on board, 38 have been declared dead.

The boat was carrying 48 tourists and five crew members near Đầu Gỗ Cave off the coast of Ha Long Bay when it was hit by a sudden squall and overturned, according to local media.

Over the previous weekend, Wipha hit Hong Kong, leaving 33 people injured and the Philippines has struggles with monsoon downpours that began last week.

Hong Kong authorities erected temporary shelters for around 277 people who sought refuge from the storm. There were also 286 reports to the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department, 425 reports of fallen trees and seven confirmed flooding cases received by the Drainage Services Department, according to a statement by the Hong Kong Government on Sunday.

Brits are being warned to check local laws in their holiday destinations before setting off as multiple countries impose strict vape bans that could result in a hefty fine or even prison time

As summer holiday season kicks off, British travellers are being urged to double-check vaping laws at their holiday destinations or risk hefty fines, confiscation, or even prison.

While most holidaymakers remember to pack suncream, passports and sunglasses, one everyday item could land you in trouble abroad: your vape. UK-based retailer WizVape has issued a warning for travellers this summer after the UK’s own ban on disposable vapes came into effect on June 1, 2025.

With similar restrictions now appearing across Europe and beyond, vape users could easily be caught out by local laws. “Many travellers are unaware that simply carrying a disposable vape could result in confiscation, hefty fines, or even legal trouble abroad,” says Saif Khan, Director at WizVape.

READ MORE: Inside an affordable European gem with ‘cobblestone old towns’ and stunning beaches

“Whether you’re heading to the beach or the city this summer, it’s essential to check the local laws before you fly.”

In Europe, countries such as France and Belgium have already implemented full bans on disposable vapes.

In Spain, vaping may still be legal, but using your device on beaches in Barcelona or Benidorm could see you slapped with a fine of up to €750 (£650).

Other European nations are planning restrictions too. A disposable vape ban in Germany has passed the Bundesrat but awaits parliamentary approval.

Ireland are also expected to implement a ban by the end of 2025. In Hungary, flavoured e-liquids and popular devices like Elf Bars are already prohibited.

“Make sure you’re using a reusable device and have packed enough refills so you don’t need to purchase a non-UK friendly vape for your return,” adds Khan.

Outside Europe, the risks are even higher. In Thailand, tourists face severe penalties for possession of any vaping device – including large fines or even jail time. Other destinations with complete bans include:

• Singapore – fines of up to £1,150 for possession.
• Mexico – devices often confiscated at airports.
• India, Qatar, Brazil and Argentina – strict bans and penalties in place.

Travellers returning to the UK should also be cautious about bringing disposables home. With the UK’s ban now in place, anyone caught with a single-use vape could have it confiscated at the border.

“Don’t assume what’s legal abroad is legal at home,” Khan warns. “Stay informed and travel smart this summer.”

READ MORE: Molly-Mae’s go-to skin-brightening pads help to instantly clear skin for a radiant glow

Tony Holliday, 57, was left with a fractured right leg, head and shoulder injuries after the crash – which happened after being given a complimentary quadbiking trip while on holiday

A holidaymaker who is suing TUI at the High Court following a quad bike crash has issued a stark warning to tourists while on excursions abroad after he suffered serious injuries which “should never have happened”.

Tony Holliday, who now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, required two operations on his right leg after he collided with rocks and was thrown from a quad bike while on an excursion in Cape Verde in March 2023.

The property developer travelled to the island, off the coast of west Africa, with his wife, Bev, and two of his daughters, Keeley and Rhianna.The 57-year-old, from Cockermouth, Cumbria, is suing TuUI UK, claiming it misrepresented the nature of the excursion and was negligent, and is seeking more than £500,000 in damages.

READ MORE:Air India breaks silence after report suggests pilots may have made fatal error

Mr Holliday has now urged travellers to take precautions while abroad. He said: “Please check everything. If something doesn’t feel right… take the full checks, make sure everything’s there (and) the health and safety looks like it’s in place.” He continued: “We asked questions at the time but were not given the correct answers.”

Mrs Holliday, 54, said: “Make sure that you’ve got the right insurance in place, that you’re going through your tour operator, and just think carefully about the excursions that you take your family on and that you go on, and just to try and look out for things that we didn’t see.”

The family agreed to go on the free quad bike excursion as compensation for issues with lost luggage and rooms smelling of sewage earlier in the trip.

In court documents filed by law firm Stewarts, which is representing Mr Holliday, Sarah Prager KC said that TUI staff described the excursion as “suitable for total beginners”, despite the company saying online that it was an “off-road adventure”, an “action-packed excursion”, and “four adrenaline-pumping hours” on “very powerful machines”.

Mr Holliday believed the excursion was provided by Tui but later found out it was organised by a local provider. Mr Holliday continues to suffer from anxiety and issues with sleep following the incident, and said he “feels a second slower than where I should be”.

He said: “Although I went through it, I didn’t witness what my family had to witness, and I don’t think they’ll ever get that image out of their head. So it’s not just me who has suffered. I think the full family has suffered through this. It should never have happened.”

Mrs Holliday said: “It’s really strange when you’ve got a partner who has no fear… he gets himself out there and he loves the challenge, work-wise. It’s really strange to then find yourself in the position where he hasn’t got that confidence any more, and your life completely changes. He will get back, he will get back to where he is. We’ll make sure he does.”

Chris Deacon, international injury lawyer at Stewarts, said: “Sadly, every year I see cases like Tony’s, of people sustaining serious, life-changing injuries on holiday excursions. One of the key factors which influences whether a person can bring a compensation claim for their injuries is how the excursion (is) booked.

“This is because booking your excursion through your tour operator as part of your package holiday brings with it certain protections under the package travel regulations.

“If you book through a small, local provider, there is a risk they won’t be insured, fully or at all, with no safeguard that the tour operator may have risk assessed the provider or activity, and the added complication of potentially having to bring your legal case in a foreign jurisdiction.

“What is also worth knowing is that many travel insurance policies exclude high-risk activities such as quad biking, parachuting, bungee jumping and certain watersports. So even if you have travel insurance, don’t assume it will cover you for everything.”

A spokesperson for TUI said: “We are sorry that Mr Holliday was injured during his holiday to Cape Verde. As this is now a legal matter, we are unable to comment any further at this time.”

Tui is understood to be opposing the claim and is due to file its defence at the High Court later this year.

The president of the local health services union, José Manuel Maroto, told elDiario.es that club owners must start forking out for private ambulances to help ease the burden on the service

Services have been pushed to the brink in Ibiza due to partying holidaymakers.

The ambulance service on the Spanish island is facing collapse, a union has warned, due to the huge number of clubbers falling ill after taking drugs. A third of all call-outs the ambulance service makes are to clubs, some of which can hold as many as 10,000 ravers.

It is the latest strain on the Balearic island, which attracts around 3.4 million tourists a year—many times more than its 160,000 permanent residents.

The president of the local health services union, José Manuel Maroto, told elDiario.es that club owners must start forking out for private ambulances to help ease the burden on the service.

“It’s inconceivable that businesses with an income of millions of euros a year can’t provide this service, which is saturating the emergency services at the expense of the local population,” he said.

Do you have experience of this side of clubbing in Ibiza? Email [email protected]

“The clubs are obliged to employ nurses and other health workers, but not ambulances—the cost of which is borne by public services.” According to Maroto, only one major club, DC-10, uses a private service.

Although the dealing of recreational drugs such as MDMA is illegal on Ibiza, as it is in the rest of Spain, many dealers operate on the island. The high cost of drinks in many of the superclubs means taking illicit substances is often cheaper.

The Hollywood star Will Smith was at the inauguration last month of UNVRS, the island’s biggest club, where the cheapest entry is €100 (£86) and drinks can cost €25.

A study by the local paper El Diario de Ibiza showed that the island is the third most expensive destination in the Mediterranean after Saint-Tropez and Capri.

“Sadly or not, drugs are the cheaper option. Not trying to vouch for them, just saying. Drinks are crazy expensive—a vodka soda should be around €22–25, but even a beer is €16–18. Club entry is €50–100,” one Reddit user recently wrote on a forum about the costs of clubbing in Ibiza.

Unlike in the UK, where venues that serve alcohol are legally obliged to provide free water to customers, clubs in Ibiza make a huge amount of money from selling it bottled and canned to dehydrated drug takers. According to one person on Ibiza Spotlight, they were charged €13 for a 330ml can of water in the superclub Pacha.

Data on the number of recent drug deaths in Ibiza is hard to come by. However, a 2017 study in European Psychiatry found that 58 drug-related fatalities were recorded in Ibiza from 2010 to 2016. Of those, 87% were men, while more than a third were Brits—by far the biggest single group.

Food poisoning and a runny tummy can ruin any trip, but by sticking to bottled water and being careful with fruit and salad, holidaymakers can keep travellers’ trots at bay

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to summer holidays – whether you’re jetting off to the Mediterranean, road-tripping across the UK, or packing for a long-haul getaway. But one of the most important things is sometimes the first to be overlooked – your health. As a pharmacist with more than 30 years’ experience, I’ve helped countless holidaymakers caught off-guard by sunburn, food poisoning or an unexpected allergic reaction.

One in eight holidaymakers get ill abroad, according to statistics. And nearly half of us fear a medical emergency abroad. But the good news is that with a few smart, proactive steps, you can avoid most common travel ailments and keep your summer trip on track. So whether you suffer from travel sickness, struggle with jet lag, or just want to avoid the classic sunburn-blister-sore-feet trifecta, here are 10 essential summer health hacks to help you feel your best, wherever you’re headed.

How to build the ultimate travel first aid kit

You don’t need to carry half a pharmacy with you, just pack the essentials. Make sure you have plasters and antiseptic wipes, as well as antihistamines (for bites, allergies or hay fever), and rehydration salts for heat or stomach bugs. Pop a pack of paracetamol or ibuprofen in your kit, as well as anti-diarrhoeal medication like loperamide.

Don’t forget travel sickness tablets, and hydrocortisone cream for rashes or bites. If you have prescribed medications, keep them in their original boxes with your name clearly labelled. Keeping these in a bag in your hand luggage ensures you’re covered if your main suitcase goes missing.

Avoid holiday tummy troubles

Food poisoning and traveller’s diarrhoea can ruin any trip. In many hot countries, bacteria multiply more quickly, especially in street food or undercooked meats. Stick to bottled or filtered water (including when brushing teeth) and avoid ice cubes unless you know the source. Peel fruits yourself and be cautious with salads washed in local water. Pack antidiarrhoeal tablets and rehydration salts. If symptoms last more than 48 hours, or there’s blood in the stool, seek medical help.

Beat travel sickness before it starts

Motion sickness happens when your inner ear and eyes send conflicting signals to your brain – often triggered in cars, boats or planes. Prevention is far more effective than waiting until you’re nauseous. Antihistamines such as cinnarizine or hyoscine patches are proven remedies and available over the counter. For natural alternatives, ginger capsules or acupressure wristbands may help some people. I also recommend facing forwards in a moving vehicle, avoiding reading or scrolling, and crack a window where possible.

Stay one step ahead of jet lag

There’s nothing worse than losing the first day or so of a long-awaited holiday due to jet lag. While you can’t avoid it altogether, there are some things you can do to minimise the effects. If possible, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you fly. Drink plenty of water on the flight, and avoid alcohol. If it’s an overnight flight, avoid eating a heavy meal. Get some sunlight as soon as you arrive to help reset your internal body clock. Melatonin supplements may be useful for short-term sleep regulation but speak to a pharmacist first.

Stay hydrated – especially on your flight

Cabin air is dry, and dehydration not only leaves you feeling groggy but can worsen jet lag, headaches, and increase your risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Drink a glass of water every hour during your flight and avoid caffeine or alcohol, both of which dehydrate you. Consider oral rehydration salts if you’re flying long haul or suffer from conditions that make you more prone to dehydration. Pack a refillable water bottle (you can fill it after security) and use hydrating facial mists or moisturiser to combat dry skin.

Prevent sunburn

It’s tempting to start a holiday by spending hours in the sun lying on the beach or by the pool. But a trip away can easily be ruined by sunburn, which isn’t just painful but can increase your risk of skin cancer and can lead to sunstroke. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming. Don’t forget areas like ears, feet, scalp, and the back of the neck. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.

Protect against bites and stings

Mosquitoes, midges and other biting insects can cause allergic reactions or transmit illness depending on where you’re travelling. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, especially around sunrise and sunset. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. If you’re bitten make sure to clean the area, apply hydrocortisone cream, and take oral antihistamines to reduce swelling and itching. If the area becomes red, hot or painful – or you develop a fever – seek medical advice.

Plan ahead for pre-existing conditions

If you have a long-term condition, speak to your GP or pharmacist at least 2-4 weeks before you travel. Get any vaccinations you need and ensure you’re fit to fly, particularly for long-haul trips. Take a basic health summary or EHIC/GHIC card (for EU countries) and always declare conditions on travel insurance. If you’re flying with mobility issues, allergies or need medical equipment like oxygen or needles, inform your airline in advance. And remember – pharmacies abroad don’t always stock the same brands or doses. Being prepared gives you peace of mind.

Mind your medication in the heat

Many people don’t realise that extreme heat can reduce the effectiveness of some medications, particularly for blood pressure, thyroid conditions or diabetes. Tablets like nitroglycerin and insulin are especially sensitive and should be kept below 25°C, away from direct sunlight or car glove boxes.

For those on temperature-sensitive meds, pack a cool bag or insulated pouch, especially on day trips. Additionally, store your medication in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags, as luggage holds can get extremely hot. A travel-sized thermometer in your kit can help you keep an eye on conditions if you’re somewhere very hot.

Deborah Grayson is a pharmacist with 30 years’ experience, and a nutritional therapist. She runs Digestion With Confidence: digestionwithconfidence.co.uk

FILL YOUR FIRST AID KIT

Take steps now to make sure you have everything you need for every kind of holiday health challenge

Kwells 300mcg travel sickness tablets, £9.49, Amazon

O.R.S hydration tablets, £6.49 (orshydration.com )

Navigate Carnaby travel bloom washbag, £23, Dunelm

Sea-Band Nausea relief Ginger Capsules, £6.69 for 20 (Superdrug)

Skincalm Bite & Sting Relief 1% Cream Hydrocortisone – 10g, £4.65, Amazon

Bioré Aqua Rich UV Invisible Face Mist SPF 50, £17.99 (Superdrug) also stocked on Amazon

La Roche Posay UVMune 400 Dermo-paediatrics Invisible Spray SPF50+, £25.50, LookFantastic

Regatta x Orla Kiely water bottle, £38, regatta.com

An acclaimed travel expert has warned Brits to check their passports before heading to the airport this summer, after swathes of travellers are still being caught out by a little-known rule

Brits heading on holiday this year have been issued a stark passport warning, even if their document is still technically ‘in date’. Swathes of passengers are still being caught out by a little-known rule that came into effect after the UK left the European Union (EU) which could leave you being denied boarding.

Simon Calder, The Independent’s travel expert, recently issued a warning ahead of the ‘peak holiday season’ – stating: “A number of people will be turning up to airports across the UK with their passport and very sadly finding out that they are not allowed onboard because they have inadvertently breached the passport validity tiles.”

The ace explained that the UK negotiated for Brits to be classed as ‘third country nationals’ following Brexit, ‘just like people from Venezuela’. “British passports can be issued for more than 10 years,” Simon added. “But, if you’re trying to get into the EU and wider Schengen area you cannot get into those countries after your passport is 10 years old.”

READ MORE: Canary Island to charge every tourist doing one thing £3.80 in major change

So, if you’re jetting off to the likes of Spain or Greece this summer, make sure your passport hasn’t passed its ’10th birthday’. You’ll also need to ensure your passport has at least three months remaining from the day you intend to return from the EU (aka the last day of your holiday).

If you’re travelling to the Schengen zone, which consists of 29 countries including Sweden, Luxembourg, Finland, Czech Republic, and Denmark – the rules are even tighter. Earlier this year, a British artist was denied boarding by Norwegian airline as her passport was issued ‘more than nine years and nine months ago’.

As previously reported, her passport’s date of issue was June 13, 2015 – and it is due to expire in August – meaning she meets both criteria laid out by the EU. However, after trying to check-in at the airport, she was directed to a staff member who stated the passport was invalid as the Schengen does not recognise ‘extensions of 10-year passports’.

The anonymous artist claims she lost around £700, and was forced to spend hundreds of pounds on an emergency passport renewal and replacement flight. According to the Guardian, the Copenhagen police department stood by its decision – and confirmed that once a passport is nine years and nine months old from the date of issue – it is invalid.

How much is a new passport?

If you’re worried your passport will be invalid by the time you fly, it might be worth renewing the document. On April 10, the fee for a standard online application made from within the UK increased from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults and £57.50 to £61.50 for children. Postal applications also increased from £100 to £107 for adults and £69 to £74 for children.

If you’re in a rush, you can pay for a Premium Service (one day) application. If this is made in the UK, it will now cost you £222 for adults and £189 for children. Overseas standard paper applications have also increased from £112.50 to £120.50 for adults and £77 to £82.50 for children.

“The new fees will help the Home Office to continue to move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation,” the government said. “The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.”

You can renew or replace your passport here.

Have you been stung by the post-Brexit passport rules? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story.

EXPERTS have issued an urgent warning over popular slushy drinks that could leave children unconscious.

Parents giving the icy shakes to kids as a cooling summer treat were told they may contain high amounts of a sweet syrup that’s dangerous to young children.

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Brightly coloured slushies are a mainstay at cinemas, corner shops and theme parks – especially as temperatures ramp up.

But the sweet icy drinks often contain glycerol, a sugar substitute that gives slushies their signature, semi-frozen texture.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has now updated its guidance to state that slush ice drinks containing glycerol are not suitable for children under seven.

It follows several incidents involving slushy drinks in recent months.

A two-year-old girl was left listless and grey and “20 minutes from death” after having a slushy drink at a neighbour’s birthday party, according to her gran.

And two young boys became violently ill after slurping on slushies as a half term treat.

Earlier this year, the brightly-coloured drinks — which are designed to appeal to children — were linked to the hospitalisation of 21 children aged two to seven.

Members of the food watchdog’s board called for the change after reviewing evidence on the risk of glycerol to young children’s health.

UK guidance previously stated that that slush ice drinks with glycerol are not recommended for children under four due to the risk of glycerol intoxication, and that those under 11 should have no more than one.

Now, the FSA warned parents not to give the drinks to children under seven.

FSA chair Professor Susan Jebb: “In the warm weather, children may be more likely to consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol, so it’s important that parents and carers are aware of the risks.

“As a precaution, the FSA is recommending that children under seven do not consume slush ice drinks containing glycerol.”

Slush ice drinks can contain glycerol –  also called E422 or glycerine on some labels – as a substitute for sugar to prevent them from freezing solid.

The sugar substitute is also found in some other foods, but at much lower quantities than in slush ice drinks. 

Consumed at high levels, glycerol can cause very low blood sugar levels and unconsciousness in young children – also known as glycerol intoxication syndrome.

Dr Duane Mellor, registered dietitian and senior lecturer at Aston Medical School in Birmingham, previously told Sun Health why children – who are smaller than adults – are more at risk of drinking dangerous amounts.

“If too much glycerol is consumed too quickly and in too large a volume, it can potentially change the blood concentration,” Dr Mellor said.

“This can then affect the amount of fluid around the brain, leading to symptoms including confusion, dizziness, nausea and even, on occasion, loss of consciousness.”

Pharmacist Abbas Kanani, from Chemist Click, told Sun Health: “Glycerol may cause side effects such as nausea, gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, and headaches.

“In the case of slush-ice drinks, the dangers are typically associated with very high levels of exposure and may lead to glycerol intoxication, which could cause hypoglycaemia, shock and loss of consciousness.

“The Food Standards Agency state that there are concerns about its acute effects on young children when consumed in large amounts over a short period, leaving them vulnerable to the symptoms listed above.

“Whilst symptoms are usually mild, young children may suffer from headaches and sickness caused by exposure to glycerol.”

According to the FSA, just one 350ml drink with the highest levels of glycerol could potentially cause a problem for a four-year-old.

In youngsters aged five to ten, one and a half of these drinks can have dangerous effects, if consumed quickly.

‘Protect children’

FSA board members previously conducted a risk assessment of slushy ice drinks in 2023, “which was based on average body weight” estimates for children.

This time, the food watchdog took a more cautious approach, taking into account that some children might have a lower than average body weight for their age.

“The assessment incorporated information from recent glycerol intoxication incidents and assessed the impact of one serving of slush ice drink (350ml with 50,000mg/L glycerol) on children with a lower-than-average body weight for their age,” the FSA wrote.

“As children’s weights vary, body weight has been converted to age to provide more practical advice for parents and businesses.”

The updated advice applies to ready-to-drink slush ice drinks with glycerol in pouches and home kits containing glycerol slush concentrates.

The FSA advised businesses selling slushies to add the minimum amount of glycerol needed to achieve the desired texture.

It also called on businesses to share how much glycerol was being added to drinks and foods.

Prof Jebb said: “We expect industry to share data on the quantity of glycerol in their products to inform our future work.

“Meanwhile, there are immediate actions they can take that can help protect children and reduce the risk from these products.

“For example, retailers should limit cup sizes and should not offer free refill promotions to children under 10.”

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Arla Agnew, two, was left falling in and out of consciousness after enjoying the popular frozen treat at a neighbour’s birthday party.

Arla’s gran, Stacey, 39, told The Scottish Sun that they youngster became “limp and lifeless” in the hours after consuming the drink and was rushed to hospital, where it was found her blood sugar levels were dangerously low.

“The doctor said to us if we had been another 20 minutes it could have been so different. We were absolutely devastated,” the gran added.

Meanwhile, mum Roxy Wallis, 36, said her two sons fell violently ill minutes after drinking slushies.

“My middle child felt sick, dizzy, and incredibly pale. By the time we reached the ticket machine, he had vomited everywhere.

“At this point, my oldest son looked pale and felt sick but wasn’t as bad – he was a bit bigger than his brother.”

Abbas shared advice for parents in the event that their child suffers a reaction after drinking a slushy.

“If you suspect intoxication from a slushie drink and your child is experiencing any symptoms, even if they are mild, seek immediate medical attention.

“This is important so that your child can be assessed and any serious reactions can be ruled out.”

A “MANDATORY” update is going out to some mobiles after reports of fires breaking out when charging.

While the update is important for safety, affected users will notice a knock to their battery’s capacity as a result.

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Google has confirmed to The Sun that a “subset” of Pixel 6a devices will receive it “to reduce the risk of potential battery overheating”.

It comes as a number of unverified reports online that the phone caught fire when on charge.

One user shared pictures of his destroyed Pixel 6a which they say began to “shoot out hot gas” in the middle of the night as it was on charge.

“Luckily, I was able to smother the fire, then throw the still-smoking phone into the toilet before the fire spread,” Reddit user zaliver claimed.

“My wife and I are pretty shook up about it.”

A small number of other users have reported similar issues.

“The update will enable battery management features that will reduce capacity and charging performance after the battery reaches 400 charge cycles,” Google said.

“We’ll contact impacted customers next month, with all the information they need to address the issue.”

It comes only a few months after another update impacted the batteries on the Pixel 4A, though this incident affected all models and wasn’t a result of safety concerns.

Owners were offered a free replacement battery to solve the problem.

Must-know Android tips to boost your phone

Get the most out of your Android smartphone with these little-known hacks:

MICROSOFT is warning users that their passwords will disappear soon from a popular free app.

The tech giant is removing the password storage tool within its Microsoft Authenticator app.

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While many use the platform to verify their identity there is also a useful password autofill capability.

The feature allows users to securely store all their passwords in one place and summon them from any mobile device or computer you’re logged into.

But it’s being phased out, with the first stage commencing in days.

From June, you’ll be blocked from saving any new passwords on the app.

Then in July, the autofill function that automatically adds your login details onto webpage will stop working.

Finally, the entire saved passwords tool will cease in August with any login data stored on the app deleted.

Microsoft has ramped up warnings to users, with a banner now appearing in the app.

“Autofill via Authenticator ends in July 2025,” the app says.

“You can export your saved info (passwords only) from Authenticator until Autofill ends.

“Access your passwords and addresses via Microsoft Edge at any time.

“To keep autofilling your info, turn on Edge or other provider.”

The popular passkeys and two-factor authentication features on Microsoft Authenticator will continue to work as normal.

It all comes as tech firms shift away from the dreaded password which are easily hacked, due to common mistakes like re-used passwords or easily guessed terms.

By comparison, passkeys can’t be guessed and they’re impossible to re-use too.

A number of tech companies such as Google are shifting people from passwords to passkeys.

SHOULD I SWITCH TO PASSKEYS?

Here’s what security expert Chris Hauk, Consumer Privacy Advocate at Pixel Privacy, told The Sun…

“Passwords are both hard to remember and in most cases, easy to guess.

“I would venture to say that most users (especially older users) will reuse passwords, simply because of all of the websites and apps that require sign-ins.

“While password managers do help, they are at best, a stopgap measure and do not offer full-ranging security for your login information.

“Passkeys offer the advantage of eliminating the need to enter an email address and password to log in.

“This is especially handy when users are logging in on an iPhone or Android device.

“Passkeys have multiple advantages over passwords. Passkeys cannot be shared or guessed.

“Passkeys are unique to the website or app they are created for, so they cannot be used to login elsewhere like a reused password can.

“Plus, passkeys cannot be stolen in a data breach, as the passkeys are not stored on the company’s servers.

“But are instead are a private key stored only on your device, where biometric authentication (like face ID or Touch ID) is required to use the passkey.”

Image credit: Getty

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) has raised concerns about the worsening security and humanitarian conditions in Lubero territory in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

A recent report from UNOCHA reveals that armed individuals perpetrated at least 32 instances of rape in the village of Vuhato, located in the Kayna health zone. The report from recent months indicates that on April 9 and 10, violent confrontations erupted in the areas of Kanune, Luhanga, and Mbwavinywa. These clashes resulted in the deaths of two civilians and prompted more than 4,000 individuals to evacuate from the villages of Bunyatenge and Musika.

Since December 2024, more than 16,000 people from 2,307 households have been newly displaced in Vuyinga’s health zone of Musienene. The UN agency reveals that most of these displaced people are being taken care of by already vulnerable families, living under precarious conditions with limited access to food, potable water, shelter, and protection.

The risk posed by stray war explosives is highly significant. Since the beginning of this year, there have been at least four incidents involving explosive devices that have resulted in the deaths of ten civilians, particularly in the farming regions of Kayna and Lubero. This situation has made it perilous for farmers to access their fields.

Since April 26, 2025, clashes between rival factions of an armed group have instilled panic in Vuhira, a Beni territory.

Joint military operations between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) are ongoing. However, the security situation remains precarious, especially in Oicha, where civilians are subjected to illegal taxation.

Despite relative calm in the Lubero territory, UNOCHA is concerned about the strengthening of armed groups in the Kitsombiro and Kamandi regions, which have become new hotbeds of violence. In Kamandi Gite, clashes have led to further displacements, with people moving towards Lunyasenge and Kiribata.

Faced with the degradation of the humanitarian situation in Lubero territory, UNOCHA calls for an urgent humanitarian and coordinated response to protect civilians and respond to their fundamental needs. The agency insists on securing humanitarian access and supporting local populations affected by these conflicts.

POLICE have launched a desperate appeal for information after a 17-year-old girl vanished with her baby girl.

Skye Conway was last seen with the infant near Strood town centre at around 7.30pm on Tuesday 14 May 2025.

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DRIVERS are being warned they could face £100 fines as councils crack down on so-called ‘ghost plates’—illegal number plates intended to evade speed and bus lane cameras.

These plates often use reflective or obscuring materials to avoid detection by traffic enforcement systems.

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In Wandsworth, council chiefs are taking action to shut down the loophole.

These banned plates, often referred to as 3D or 4D plates, reflect camera flashes and can render a vehicle invisible to enforcement systems.

Council bosses have issued a stark warning about rogue motorists using ‘ghost plates‘ to avoid detection.

These plates, which are not legal for road use, are being used by some drivers to beat traffic rules and avoid fines.

Authorities are now ramping up efforts to stop them.

Two years ago, the head of the national Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system revealed that a shocking number of drivers – roughly one in 15 – could easily outsmart the system.

On leaving his post, Professor Fraser Sampson wrote to Transport Secretary Mark Harper expressing his frustration over the lack of government action on the issue.

To combat the problem, new cameras capable of spotting these ‘stealth’ number plates have been rolled out in some areas.

In Wolverhampton, local enforcement officers were equipped with upgraded technology during a strict clampdown last year.

Drivers caught using ghost plates can expect to be hit with a £100 fine.

In his letter to Mark Harper, Prof Sampson detailed how motorists were getting around the law using reflective materials, cloned plates, and other deceptive tools to avoid penalties for speeding, low-emission zone breaches, or bus lane violations.

According to Prof Sampson, the ANPR system has a 97 per cent success rate in reading plates but still produces 2.4 million incorrect readings daily.

That margin of error could mean innocent drivers end up being wrongly fined.

Prof Sampson has raised major concerns about the vulnerability of the system, which still depends heavily on readable number plates despite advances in technology.

He said: “For all its technological advancement and operational indispensability, the ANPR system still relies ultimately on a piece of plastic affixed to either end of a vehicle.

“Served by a wholly unregulated market, what my predecessor termed the humble number plate represents a single and readily assailable point of failure with the ANPR network being easily defeated by the manufacture and sale of stealth plates, cloned registration marks and other rudimentary obscurant tactics.”

He added: “The result is that the ability to frustrate the ANPR system remains staggeringly simple at a time when proper reliance on it for key public services such as policing, law enforcement and traffic management is increasing daily.”

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