Wales

Wales’ players were crestfallen at the final whistle, glazed looks in their eyes as it dawned on them that a huge opportunity had slipped through their grasp.

Belgium’s goalless draw with North Macedonia on Friday had opened the door for Wales, who needed to win their remaining three games to finish top of Group J and qualify automatically for the World Cup.

But they fell at the first hurdle, outgunned by Belgium in another chaotic shootout after losing 4-3 in Brussels in June.

Again, Wales’ bold approach – to press and to pour forward at every opportunity – left them exposed defensively, and once again they were ruthlessly punished by Jeremy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne and the rest.

On reflection, did Bellamy feel his side were just a little too open?

“We felt the best way of being able to combat this team was to have the ball,” he answered. “And we created a lot of chances, but we felt that was the way of being able to beat this team because we needed to win.

“It was as simple as that, and you could see even towards the end, we opened up more. We lost a bit of control in the game. But I always believe the way you can stop the opposition from scoring is by having the ball.

“But that transition moment, with Jeremy, it’s so fearful every time you have the ball that if it turns over, this kid, he’s just that.

“I’ve experienced it. I had him on my team [at Anderlecht], and I knew how dangerous he was, but going against him… We knew there were going to be difficult moments in that game.”

This has been a bruising window for Bellamy, whose decision to take on England in a friendly at Wembley last Thursday was met with a mixture of scepticism, bemusement and outright criticism.

The outcome, a chastening 3-0 defeat, intensified the fans’ discontent, though they were willing to keep an open mind if it helped Wales beat Belgium.

Supporters will be less forgiving now Wales have lost – making it 12 goals conceded in five games – and seen their hopes of qualifying automatically go up in smoke.

But nothing will deter Bellamy, unshakeable in his beliefs.

“I’ve seen a lot today that makes me feel we can get close to these. We can get close. We need to keep improving,” he said.

“But I told you at the start when I was going to do this. I’m going to press, and I won’t sit back. I know that goes against some people, but this is who I am.

“And today, I’ve seen a team with flaws because I have them. A team that wants to do something, because I want to. I’m grateful for that.”

When Davies was asked about that block before Wales met Slovakia again three years later, he simply remarked: “It’s a good memory, but hopefully I won’t have to do it again this time around.”

Those moments are all well and good, Davies thought, but he would prefer a straightforward victory, a clean sheet and, frankly, less of a fuss.

By this time, however, he had already joined Tottenham, with whom he would play in one of the most extraordinary ties in Champions League history.

Just 24 hours after Liverpool had overturned a 3-0 first-leg deficit to stun Barcelona at Anfield, Spurs mounted another comeback for the ages against Ajax.

Trailing 3-0 on aggregate with 35 minutes left to play in Amsterdam, two Lucas Moura goals had dragged Spurs back into contention.

Then in the sixth minute of added time, Davies intercepted an Ajax clearance to launch the counter-attack which culminated in Moura’s hat-trick and sealed the most dumbfounding of triumphs on away goals.

At the final whistle, it was telling that then-Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino, overcome with emotion, ran on to the pitch and leapt into Davies’ arms.

The Welshman had been Pochettino’s first signing following his appointment in 2014 and, five years later, Davies was the first person with whom the Argentine shared his greatest moment as Spurs boss.

“He is still young, but his mentality, his maturity – he is so professional – he is helping the team every season,” said Pochettino.

“He’s fantastic, not only today but from the day he arrived. He’s a great professional, a great player and a great man.”

Davies is now Tottenham’s longest-serving current player, with more than 300 appearances to his name.

Son Heung-min, who left Spurs during the summer of 2025, was one Davies’ best friends at the north London club.

“Ben is one of my closest friends,” Son said in 2023. “He helped me settle in London very well.”

Davies and Son caught a train from London to Cardiff together before Wales played South Korea in a friendly in September 2023.

True to form and even with one of the world’s most globally renowned footballers for company, Davies managed to navigate the journey without much attention, gave Son a hug goodbye on the platform at Cardiff Central and set off to rejoin the Wales squad.

The small seaside development in Carmarthenshire is known as ‘Sunset Village’ and offers stunning and tranquil views that residents say are like a year-round holiday

In a charming seaside town, there’s a row of houses that leave locals gasping ‘wow’ every morning.

Living here feels like a permanent holiday, regardless of the British weather. Who needs a coastal getaway when you can see the sea as soon as you open your curtains? Welcome to Pentre Nicklaus Village on the fringes of Llanelli in south-west Wales.

Although it’s just a stone’s throw from the town centre, the peaceful views and tranquillity make it feel miles away. Two decades have passed since the first of approximately 170 homes were built here, offering vistas found in few other parts of the UK.

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The properties in this development were designed in a ‘New England style’, giving you the feeling of being in a Welsh mini-version of The Hamptons – an area in Long Island, New York, known for its grand homes with spacious terraces and balconies overlooking breathtaking sea views, reports the Express.

In fact, it bears a striking resemblance to Seahaven, the fictional small, privately-owned beachside town from the Truman Show, made famous by Jim Carrey in the 1998 hit comedy drama. From your balcony, on a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Gower on one side and Tenby on the other.

“I’m always in awe – in the summer in particular it’s just breathtaking,” said Janice Gallacher, a local resident who enjoys a stunning view of the Millennium Coastal Path, a picturesque trail along the Loughor Estuary that leads into the bounteous Carmarthen Bay.

“But whatever the season, it’s beautiful. Every day is different, every day you get to see the sunset. Even when the tide is rough it’s brilliant to watch.”

In 2004, Janice relocated to Pentre Nicklaus alongside her husband Stuart, a Llanelli icon celebrated for his rugby accomplishments in both union and league, before assuming senior positions as chief executive of Llanelli RFC and the Scarlets.

Stuart died in 2014, but Janice has remained deeply devoted to the area they selected together. Now a great-grandmother, the location continues to provide plenty for her to enjoy.

Showcasing her spacious open-plan upper-floor home, Janice enthuses about the local wildlife and the sweeping coastal views on her doorstep.

She also highlights the proximity to Llanelli’s town centre, saying: “I can walk to the nursery in 10 minutes, we’ve got the golf club around the corner – it’s a wonderful place to live. I can see the coast for miles around. We knew when we bought the place almost 20 years ago that it was a home for life.”

Carwyn and Susan Richards, who reside next door to Janice, are equally fortunate with their seaside outlook and recall how the view of the property convinced them to relocate immediately. The pair hail from Llanelli and returned here in 2014 following a period in neighbouring Gower.

“We had to travel into and through Swansea to get anywhere, but here we’re close to shops, we’re close to family and we’re close to the M4, it’s perfect. Summer time is the best time to live here but it’s beautiful all year round,” they gushed.

A photograph captured by Carwyn, which adorns their wall, perfectly captures the stunning panorama from their home. “We’ve moved around a lot over the years with my job,” Carwyn recalled.

“We had a lovely place to live in Gower, right by the beach. When we decided to come back to this area, we looked at several places. But as soon as we stepped through the door here, it was June and straight away we saw that view. That was it. We knew within 30 seconds that this was where we wanted to be.

“We’re not moving again!” Susan declared emphatically. “This is home.” Further along Pentre Nicklaus, Garry is busy with his refurbishment.

Unlike most properties of comparable design that boast a wall separating the kitchen and lounge on the second floor, Garry has opted to knock it down, forming a vast open-plan area that makes the most of the spectacular seaside vistas through the enormous glass windows.

Garry and his family were attracted to their property in Pentre Nicklaus six years ago, chiefly for its breathtaking outlook: “We wanted this place because of the view. We originally came here because it’s near the sea and the coastal path and I love cycling – all that is literally right in front of us, so it was a lifestyle choice.”

Situated in Llanelli, a town with a proud rugby tradition, Garry’s home boasts a remarkable sporting connection, having previously belonged to Gareth Jenkins, the former player and head coach of the Wales national team – a detail Garry enthusiastically mentions from his balcony.

“We wanted this place because of the view. We originally came here because it’s near the sea and the coastal path and I love cycling – all that is literally right in front of us, so it was a lifestyle choice.”

“Some people might look at the land down there (between his home and the estuary) and think it’s just wasteland but we don’t see it like that. We have wild foxes here, we have birds of prey – for us it’s a nature reserve on our doorstep.

“The best part about the view is that it changes every hour. It’s expensive to buy a property here but it’s free for everyone to enjoy the path and the surroundings. We used to commute a lot, which is bad for the environment and it’s bad for our health. Thankfully I’m able to work from home. People might think you take it for granted after a while but you don’t. It’s just stunning.”

Living in Pentre Nicklaus delivers the perfect balance. Whilst the town centre’s energy and activity lies just a brief stroll away, your property serves as a peaceful sanctuary.

Peering through your generous lounge window during the evening hours, you’re surrounded by wildlife and the ocean, creating the sensation of being countless miles from civilisation.

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BRITAIN’S smallest castle, a charming 19th century Gothic turret in the heart of Hertfordshire, has gone up for sale.

The Gazebo Tower is a glorious Grade II listed landmark which dates back to 1833 and is packed with royal-looking features inside its 645sqft of living space.

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Described as a “local icon”, this three-storey tower in Ross-on-Wye looks out over the River Wye and the Hertfordshire countryside.

Inside, each of its circular rooms – roughly 16ft across – has been transformed into a kitchen, a bedroom and a living room.

It also comes with a picturesque roof-top terrace, described as offering 360-degree views of the Black Mountains of Southeast Wales, the spire of Saint Mary’s Church, Chase Wood and Ross-on-Wye’s vibrant architecture.

It’s currently available to buy for £330,000.

Estate agents Hamilton Stiller described it “an opportunity to own a landmark and one of Ross-on-Wye’s most striking features.”

One of the most whimsical touches to the property is how the double bed hides a bath underneath – making the most of the space.

The top floor also includes an en-suite wet room and a spiral staircase leading to a battery-operated roof hatch.

Athletes from the Ross Rowing Club can even often be seen sailing down the River Wye from the windows.

The quintessential market town of Ledbury is only 13 miles away, while trains to London Paddington take two hours.

This tower, once owned by Herefordshire Council, was sold in 2001 when its only floor was accessible by ladder.

Tony Billingham, who won the bid by post, lovingly restored the tower into a cozy, functional home and later opened it to visitors, donating proceeds to local charities.

This isn’t the only house that has caught widespread attention recently.

A seemingly ordinary home has gone up for sale at £400,000, but there’s one very unexpected twist that’s caught people’s attention.

Photos of the property reveal that one of its two bathrooms has been transformed into a home office – giving workers the chance to “do their business” without ever leaving the room.

A three-bedroom home in Walton, Chesterfield, has hit the market for £150,000, appearing perfectly normal from the street – but step inside, and things take a decidedly unexpected turn.

Baffled house hunters have branded the interior “bonkers”, with photos revealing a quirky layout and eccentric design choices that are anything but ordinary.

A charming seaside property with a fascinating backstory has caught the attention of locals and house hunters alike.

Listed for £235,000 in February, the home was purchased by a couple in July after making several visits over the summer.

Nicknamed “the Dolls House” by locals, the petite property is cleverly built in an alleyway between two neighbouring homes and offers breathtaking views of the coast.

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Wales’ World Cup qualifying fate is back in their own hands after group rivals Belgium and North Macedonia cancelled each other out.

North Macedonia top Group J after holding out for a goalless draw in Ghent against second-place Belgium, who travel to Cardiff on Monday.

Wales are third ahead of that game knowing they will secure automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament if they win their remaining three games.

North Macedonia lead the group standings with 12 points from six games, one point ahead of Belgium and two ahead of Wales, who both have a game in hand.

The team finishing second will enter the play-offs in March, while Wales could even make that stage by finishing third following their performance in the Nations League last year.

Jordan Pickford: A history-making night for the keeper as he broke the record he shared with Gordon Banks for the number of consecutive clean sheets, which now stands at eight. Made a smart save to deny David Brooks, but didn’t have much more to trouble him. 6

Ezri Konsa: The Aston Villa defender was moved to right-back as John Stones came into the centre and the absence of the injured Reece James. Konsa looked solid as he has done in the past when playing in that position for England and offered an attacking outlet. Not tested defensively. 6

John Stones: His first match under Thomas Tuchel since he became England manager. Stones stepped into midfield to start attacks and it was an extremely comfortable return to international football after his injury troubles. 6

Marc Guehi: The Crystal Palace defender was his usual composed self at centre-back. Produced a great piece of play to keep the ball in and set up Morgan Rogers for his opening goal. Guehi must be a first-choice defender for England. 7

Djed Spence: Not anything of note to deal with defensively on his first start for England. A good outlet in attack and continues to be a versatile asset. 6

Declan Rice: Captain for the night and lived up to the honour. Bossed the midfield with his running power and dictated the game with his passing. His corners and free-kicks were always quality. 8

Elliot Anderson: Continues to make the number six position his own. Plays with maturity but still only 22. Has a real chance to become a key part of the England team. 7

Morgan Rogers: A favourite of Tuchel and one of the big options as a number 10. A great moment for him to score his first England goal and his powerful running caused Wales problems throughout the match. 8

Bukayo Saka: The Arsenal winger was a constant threat on the right wing – just as he is for his club. He scored the goal of the match with a real moment of quality when he cut in on his left foot and curled a shot into the top corner. 8

Anthony Gordon: Started the match on the left wing and was then moved to striker after Ollie Watkins was withdrawn. He played with his usual energy and pace and contributed to a solid win. 7

Ollie Watkins: A goal for Watkins. He hasn’t played much under Tuchel but the Villa front man took his chance when it came and is the clear backup for captain Harry Kane. But missed another good opportunity and a collision with a post led to injury and a half-time withdrawal. 7

Davies has played against England three times, including a 2-1 loss at Euro 2016 – a result that still rankles.

“The 2016 one, it still hurts the last-minute goal to concede, but in that one we were playing a game more result-dependent,” he said.

“We’re very lucky in this team that we have incredible guys all across the board, players that come in, players that maybe don’t play every single time but show their best foot every time they come in.

“It’s just a fun environment to be around. We enjoy each other’s company on the pitch, off the pitch. It feels like playing with your mates at times. So when you do get out on that pitch you know that you’ve got each other’s backs whatever is thrown at us.”

Davies has also experienced two 3-0 defeats against England, at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and in a 2020 friendly at Wembley.

“They’re games that we know we’re playing against top opposition but we felt like we could have done a lot better and given a much better account of ourselves. So they’re games that stay in the memory,” he added.

“Hopefully we have a better chance tomorrow [Thursday].”

England captain Harry Kane will miss Thursday’s friendly against Wales with a minor injury.

The 32-year-old missed training after taking a kick to his ankle during Bayern Munich’s 3-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday.

England hope their record goalscorer will be fit to face Latvia in a World Cup qualifier next Tuesday.

Manager Thomas Tuchel said: “Harry will miss the game, he got a kick in his last match and it is too painful to kick the ball and too risky for him.

“We give him the chance for it calm down and we are convinced he will be ready for Latvia.”

Tuchel confirmed that one of Jordan Henderson, John Stones or Declan Rice will be captain at Wembley in Kane’s absence.

More to follow.

MILLIONS of pensioners will be hit with £300 tax bills from HMRC this winter.

From November, around nine million pensioners will begin to see up to £300 land in their bank accounts.

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The cash boost comes as part of the Winter Fuel Payment, which is a benefit issued by the DWP to help elderly people with fuel costs over the colder months.

It comes after a previous £300 payment was axed for millions of pensioners last winter and only those on certain benefits qualified.

The move triggered a massive backlash for Labour as some 10million pensioners lost their winter fuel allowance in the benefit cut.

It saved the Treasury just £1.4billion but caused a massive public outcry.

The government later cracked under pressure and was forced to perform a half baked U-turn.

Most pensioners are now eligible for the support, which is worth between £100 and £300.

However, if your income is more than £35,000, HMRC will take the money back.

Your income can come from a range of factors including your private pension and state benefits.

If you fall into this earnings category, you can opt out of payments.

But the deadline to do so ended on September 15.

What happens now?

If you did not opt out, HMRC will change your tax code and you will receive a tax code notice letter.

Changing your tax code means that your Winter Fuel Payment will be deducted from your income and paid to HMRC in monthly instalments.

So for example, if you received a £100 Winter Fuel Payment but had an income of £35,000, you will pay back around £9 every month.

You will be charged from April 2026, which is the start of the new tax year.

Households can check if they are over the income thresholds by visiting www.tax.service.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-hmrc-will-take-back-your-winter-payment/start/country.

How to opt out of future charges

The deadline for opting out of the Winter Fuel Payment for 2025 to 2026 has passed. 

But you can opt out of getting the benefit for 2026 to 2027 from April 2026.

When it reopens, you will need to complete either an online form or phone the helpline on 0800 731 0160.

If you opt to complete the form online, you will need details such as your National Insurance number.

Who is not eligible for the payment?

You can get a Winter Fuel Payment if you were born before September 22 1959 and live in England or Wales.

But a small group of individuals will not be eligible, including:

• live outside England and Wales
• were in hospital getting free treatment for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025 and the year before that
• need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says that you cannot claim public funds
• were in prison for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025

Most people are paid the benefit automatically but if you think you are risk of missing out you can apply.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They were recipients of The Prince William Bafta Bursary programme.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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THOUSANDS of pensioners will be able to apply for a winter cash boost worth up to £300 in just days.

More than nine million people are set to get the Winter Fuel Payment to help with their energy bills over the colder months.

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Most people who are eligible will get the payment automatically, and will receive letters in the post from the DWP in October and November telling them how much cash they will receive.

However, certain pensioners will need to apply to get the benefit.

You can apply either by post or over the phone, and the DWP phone lines to make a claim open on October 13.

Postal applications opened earlier on September 15.

Pensioners have until March 31 2026 to make a claim.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that anyone claiming the following benefits does not need to make a claim:

• State Pension
• Pension Credit
• Universal Credit
• Attendance Allowance
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Carer’s Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Income Support
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• awards from the War Pensions Scheme
• Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
• Incapacity Benefit
• Industrial Death Benefit

If you don’t receive any of these benefits, you’ll need to claim manually if you’ve not got the Winter Fuel Payment before, or if you’ve deferred your State Pension since your last Winter Fuel Payment.

While the highest amount of free support is £300, the total will depend on when you were born and your circumstances on the qualifying week, which is between September 15 and 21 of this year.

Pensioners born before September 22, 1959, with an income of £35,000 or below will be eligible for between £100 and £300 to help towards heating bills.

Those hoping to receive the cash must be 66 by the end of the qualifying week.

You won’t be eligible for the payment if you earn more than £35,000 a year, and HMRC will claw back the automatic payment made to you through your tax code or tax return.

Your income can come from a range of factors including, your private pension and state benefits.

Other people who won’t be eligible include those who:

• live outside England and Wales
• were in hospital getting free treatment for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025 and the year before that
• need permission to enter the UK and your granted leave says that you cannot claim public funds
• were in prison for the whole of the week of 15 to 21 September 2025

The Winter Fuel Payment was axed for 10million pensioners last year, with only those on certain benefits qualifying.

But the government was forced to perform a U-turn after a huge public outcry, with the funding now being reinstated for millions.

The gov.uk website provides further guidance on the scheme and how to make a claim.

Pensioners are also being warned to be wary of text messages from scammers posing as the DWP, who try to get you to click on a fake link to make a claim.

These are not official DWP messages and should be deleted, the government has said.

The Winter Fuel Payment is separate from the Warm Home Discount, which offers struggling households £150 off their electricity bill.

The money is not paid to you, and households that are eligible will have the discount applied to their bill by their energy provider.

What energy bill help is available?

There’s a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you’re struggling to get by.

If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.

This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.

If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.

Several energy firms have schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.

But eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.

For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.

British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.

You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.

EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.

Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).

The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill.

Some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.

Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

TENS of thousands are without power as Storm Amy’s 90mph gusts and torrential rain lash Britain leaving one dead.

The first named storm of the season has swept into the country with yellow weather warnings covering the whole of Britain on Saturday.

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Irish Police confirmed on Friday that a man in his 40s had died following a “weather related incident”.

While 234,000 homes were also left without power across the island of Ireland as Storm Amy brings widespread disruption.

The highest wind speeds so far have been recorded in the Hebrides Islands, Scotland, at 96mph with 92mph gusts recorded in Co Londonderry in Northern Ireland, say the Met Office.

An amber wind warning has been issued for the north of Scotland until 9pm on Saturday with yellow warnings covering the whole of Scotland, the north of England and north Wales until the end of the day.

A yellow wind warning will run until 7pm for the rest of England and Wales.

Additionally, yellow warnings for rain are in place in north and west Scotland until midnight and in Northern Ireland until noon.

Travel chaos has also been sparked across the country with road closures and disruption to public transport.

Train operator, Avanti West Coast, warned of “short notice changes” on Saturday and “strongly recommended” customers making journeys north of Preston to check updates before travelling.

In Scotland, ScotRail suspended services on Friday night and anticipated the disruption would extend in Saturday and possibly Sunday.

Network Rail Scotland route director Ross Moran said more than 60 incidents of flooding, fallen trees and debris on the tracks were reported across the network in the first two hours of the storm.

“Storm Amy has hit parts of the country much harder and more quickly than expected,” he said.

National Rail is carrying out safety checks for obstructions on the line and damage to infrastructure, warning of possible disruptions throughout the UK on Saturday.

Elsewhere, CalMac Ferries also said it expect many services to be disrupted on Saturday into Sunday with many routes already cancelled.

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The iconic Severn Bridge between Gloucestershire and Wales was also forced to close overnight due to strong winds.

While parts of the A19 Tees Viaduct, the A66 in Cumbria and the A628 near Manchester were all closed to high-sided vehicles.

Traffic Scotland has also reported a long list of road closures with Forth Road Bridge closed in both directions.

The Skye Bridge, Queensferry Crossing and Clackmannshire Bridge were also closed to high-sided vehicles.

They also reported a number of road closures due to falling debris and overnight flooding including the M9 eastbound near Stirling.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency had 30 flood warnings in place on Saturday with the Environment Agency issuing six in the north of England one in north Wales from Natural Resources Wales.

Belfast International Airport said it was expecting delays on Saturday and advised passengers to check with their airlines.

All eight of London’s royal parks, including Hyde Park and Richmond Park, will also be closed on Saturday due to the strong winds.

In a statement on its website, the Royal Parks said: “Due to severe wind gusts caused by Storm Amy, all of the royal parks, plus Brompton Cemetery and Victoria Tower Gardens will be closed on Saturday October 4.

“This closure includes all park roads and cycleways, cafes and kiosks, parks sports venues, the Serpentine lido and boating lake, and the royal parks shop.”

“The safety of visitors and staff is our top priority,” the Royal Parks added.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience that these closures may cause.”

It said opening times on Sunday will be delayed because of safety inspections.

The Met Office said wind and rain was expected to ease throughout the evening for much of the country, but severe gales are forecast to continue in north east Scotland with a yellow warning for wind in place from midnight until 9am on Sunday.

Sunday is expected to turn dry and less windy with sunny spells for most areas, but outbreaks of rain developing in the north west.

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The UK’s coastlines are among the most stunning in the world and can be appreciated all year round, especially in autumn

Just because the summer season has concluded, it doesn’t mean you can’t still relish sandy shores and delightful coastal towns. The UK’s coastlines are amongst the most breathtaking globally and can be savoured throughout the year – especially during autumn when you can wander the coastal path and treat yourself to hot chocolates at welcoming beachside cafés.

Senior Journalist, Portia Jones, confessed that autumn is her favoured time to visit the seaside towns of Wales as it tends to be more peaceful, and lodging could potentially be more affordable (particularly if you manage to bag a brilliant deal). She revealed: “Tenby, widely regarded as one of the best seaside towns in Wales, is one of my favourite destinations during the off-peak season.”

With gorgeous beaches just a brief stroll from the vibrant town centre, charming cobbled streets that could rival those in Italy or the French Riviera, and a selection of eye-catching, brightly-coloured houses that many British towns would covet, it’s scarcely shocking that this coastal treasure consistently features as one of the “best” seaside towns in the entire UK, reports the Express.

Dubbed the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the ‘Welsh Riviera’, Tenby has long been a favoured tourist hotspot and is one of the most cherished seaside towns in Wales.

Here, you’ll uncover a scenic harbour, Victorian architecture, sandy beaches, independent cafés and picturesque coastal walks along the captivating shoreline, reports Wales Online. Step beyond its ancient 13th-century walls, and you’ll discover sun-drenched shores and breathtaking clifftop vistas across the water towards the enchanting Caldey Island.

Portia revealed: “I have visited Tenby many, many times over the years, from childhood holidays to grown-up escapes with friends and my significant other, and I love it a bit more with each visit.

“While summer is perfect for sea swimming and long wine-filled afternoons on sun-trap pub terraces, I have come to appreciate Tenby more in autumn. Sure, the weather might not be as sunny, but this is Wales. Frankly, you can have a torrential downpour in August and a mini-heatwave in late September.

“It’s completely unpredictable, so you may as well chance a cheaper autumn visit and hope the weather gods smile upon you. I love that if you visit Tenby during the week, say, mid-October, you can escape the crowds and wander the pretty streets and sandy beaches in relative peace. Just wrap up warm, buy a hot chocolate, and watch the waves roll in from a chilled-out seaside cafe. Lush.”

She added: “Accommodation-wise I’ve found that you can get some pretty good deals in the off-season – especially if you visit midweek rather than at a weekend. One of my favourite spots is YHA Manorbier – a very affordable stay that’s a short drive from the town centre.”

This wallet-friendly hostel, situated in a former military base, provides glamping and camping options and costs under £50 for a private en suite room for two people (YHA members pay even less). Lodging choices include reasonably priced private quarters, distinctive American Airstreams, charming camping pods, and pitch-up camping.

Portia usually books a pristine private en suite room for just £45 for two visitors, and as a YHA member, she gets an extra 10% reduction. Granted, the private quarters may have limited space for large luggage, which estate agents might call “bijou” and regular people might describe as “compact.”

However, for slightly over £20 each, it offers outstanding value – especially in the expensive Pembrokeshire area. Portia observed: “Let’s be honest; you’re not checking into a YHA expecting a concierge, Egyptian cotton sheets, and a robe monogrammed with your initials. You’re here for the vibes. A community-spirited atmosphere fostered by shared kitchens, mismatched mugs, and conversations over wine in the lounge.”

Fancy staying closer to the town centre? Browse autumn deals on Booking.com and bag a hotel for roughly £75 for two adults. The Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre property costs just £68 per night for two in October and offers a cosy base right in the heart of all the action. Despite the summer rush being over, there’s still plenty to savour in Tenby.

From strolling along the coastal path and sampling craft beers in local pubs, to exploring independent shops for your Christmas shopping, Tenby has it all.

The town is home to several golden beaches perfect for a brisk autumn sea dip if you’re brave enough, or simply sipping hot chocolate while taking in the windswept coastline. South Beach, a sandy beach backed by dunes near the town centre, proudly holds the esteemed Blue Flag status.

When it comes to dining, Salty’s Beach Bar and Restaurant, situated right on the beach, is well worth a visit. Castle Beach, just a hop, skip and jump from the town centre, was crowned the UK’s best beach in 2019 and currently boasts an impressive 4.8 out of five rating on Google.

North Beach, nestled in Pembrokeshire, has previously been voted the most photogenic beach in the UK, beating other stunning spots like Durdle Door in Dorset and Brighton seafront. Harbour Beach may be the smallest, but it offers a charming backdrop of colourful houses, bobbing boats, and a road leading back to the town centre.

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the Tenby Coast Path. This picturesque section of the larger Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers breathtaking views of Tenby’s vibrant harbour, Caldey Island, and St Catherine’s Island.

Favourite trails include the four-mile stroll to Saundersfoot, a moderate nine-mile loop that returns inland, and a challenging 10.9-mile point-to-point path to Freshwater East. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, why not pop into Tenby Museum and Art Gallery?

It’s the oldest independent museum in Wales. Founded in 1878, this charming museum is home to a wide range of local geology, biology, archaeology, and maritime artefacts waiting to be explored.

Many of the exhibits also delve into the culture and heritage of South Pembrokeshire, offering you a peek into local history and art. A delightful gift shop near the entrance sells local books and gift items.

Entry to the museum will set you back £6.50 for adults and £3.50 for children. They also run a reusable ticket scheme – all tickets can be used for one year after purchase, so you can make as many return visits as you like within that time at no extra cost.

For those who fancy a Welsh tipple, there are two local breweries in Tenby. Both produce top-notch beers and supply local bars and restaurants. Tenby Brewing Co., which took over from Preseli Brewery, has multiple stockists in Tenby and is one of the leading craft breweries in Wales.

The award-winning brewery was conceived when two mates decided to ditch the daily grind and start their own brewery over a pint. The Yard, their trendy venue at the brewery, boasts a capacity of 150 and offers an exciting rotating menu from fantastic pop-up food vendors, draft beer lines from their range, and some of their favourite brewers.

Harbwr, the newer kid on the block, is a craft brewery and taproom that brews a variety of cask and bottled ales just above Tenby harbour. When it comes to food, Tenby’s cluster of tiny streets and pastel-coloured buildings conceals its best restaurants and cafes down the narrowest of alleys.

Plantagenet House is a hidden treasure, featuring flagstone floors, exposed beams, and a 40-foot medieval Flemish chimney. If you’re quick off the mark, you might even secure a table by the fireplace.

“A recommended dish is their vegan Thai coconut curry, which features squash, chargrilled spring onion, spiced rice, and roasted almonds,” Portia suggested.

Links restaurant, located on the ground floor of Tenby Golf Club, offers Michelin-starred dining, making it a top pick for food enthusiasts visiting Pembrokeshire.

The menu, crafted by a talented local chef, focuses on simple yet incredibly tasty dishes made with high-quality Welsh produce. Start your meal with their freshly-baked ale bread served with whipped Marmite butter – trust me, it’s the perfect starter.

The ambience strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and sophisticated, with a menu that seamlessly merges humble yet thrilling dishes. From hot smoked salmon paired with cucumber and buttermilk to heritage tomatoes coupled with buffalo mozzarella, there’s something to tickle every palate.

For your main course, relish in locally-sourced delights such as Pembrokeshire beef or Cornish cod in a bisque sauce, or treat yourself to a succulent rump of Welsh lamb served with all the right trimmings.

And don’t forget to save space for pudding – whether it’s a decadent dark chocolate fondant with tarragon ice cream or a zesty lemon meringue with almond cake and blueberry sorbet, you won’t leave feeling unsatisfied. D. Fecci and Sons might just dish up the best fish and chips in Wales, having catered to both locals and tourists since 1935.

With potatoes grown locally in Pembrokeshire and groundnut oil creating wonderfully crispy haddock, cod, and calamari, the chippy also offers fresh mackerel during the summer months.

For delightful treats, pop into Mor Tenby, an elegant family-run coffee house and gift boutique selling their signature coffee blend (“Coffi Mor”), sweet treats, deli items, home fragrances, household goods, gifts, and Welsh specialities.

A beloved establishment in Tenby, Top Joe’s remains the top spot for pizza lovers. This former ’60s diner has transformed into an artisanal pizzeria offering freshly-made pizza, pasta, and salads featuring high-quality Italian ingredients. Nestled in the heart of this delightful coastal town, it’s a firm favourite with both locals and visitors.

The culinary expertise of Chef Giovanni Recchia, recently acknowledged as one of the world’s best at the Pizza World Championships, enhances the menu. He crafts pizzas using locally-milled flour and top-notch ingredients, including cured meats from Trealy Farm Charcuterie.

PRO-Palestinians have hit the streets of Manchester to protest against Greta Thunberg’s flotilla detention.

It comes just hours after the vile terror attack on Manchester‘s Heaton Park synagogue, which unfolded on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

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Protesters were marching at Manchester Piccadilly station today in solidarity with the members of Global Sumud Flotilla – a fleet of 40 ships carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The Israeli navy intercepted several vessels at sea beginning Wednesday, after warning activists against entering waters it says fall under its blockade.

As the nation mourned the sick terror attack against the Jewish community – which killed two people – protesters marched through the streets of Manchester.

Hundreds of them gathered outside the Manchester Piccadilly Station banging drums and chanting slogans against the Israeli authorities. 

They were seen waving Palestine flags and holding placards that read “Freedom for Palestine” and “Stop starving Gaza”.

Organisers of the protest said they “condemned in the strongest possible terms” the attack in Heaton Park – and called for a minute’s silence in respect for the victims.

Another protest took place in Parliament Square as activists gathered to demonstrate against Israeli authorities.

The protest sparked fury, including from Conservative MP Susan Hall, who described it as “disgraceful, disrespectful, despicable behaviour”.

The demonstrations come in the wake of today’s vile Manchester attack.

An assailant drove a car into people outside a synagogue and then began stabbing them, killing two and seriously wounding four in what police called a terrorist attack on the holiest day of the Jewish year.

Officers shot and killed the suspect outside Manchester, police said.

Authorities said he was wearing a vest that made it appear as if he had explosives. Police later said he did not have a bomb.

The Metropolitan Police force in London, which leads the nation’s counter-terrorism policing operations, declared the rampage a terrorist attack.

Israel slammed the UK government for not doing enough and warned that antisemitism is on the rise after the vile synagogue attack.

Tel Aviv said British authorities “failed” to tackle the “toxic wave of antisemitism” which led to the terror rampage.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said: “I am appalled by the murderous attack near the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester on the morning of the holiest day for the Jewish people: Yom Kippur.

“The truth must be told: blatant and rampant antisemitic and anti-Israeli incitement, as well as calls of support for terror, have recently become a widespread phenomenon in the streets of London, in cities across Britain, and on its campuses.

“The authorities in Britain have failed to take the necessary action to curb this toxic wave of antisemitism and have effectively allowed it to persist.”

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country “grieves with the Jewish community in the UK” after this morning‘s “barbaric terror attack” in Manchester.

“Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded,” he said on X.

“As I warned at the UN: weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it.”

Sir Keir – who cut short his trip to Denmark and rushed back to chair a Cobra meeting – condemned antisemitism and said that Britain “must defeat it once again”.

Speaking from Downing Street, the PM blasted the “terrorist attack that attacked Jews because they are Jews”, committed by “a vile individual”.

Sir Keir said: “Earlier today, on Yom Kippur, the holiest day for the Jewish community, a vile individual committed a terrorist attack that attacked Jews because they are Jews, and attacked Britain because of our values.

“So many Jewish families first came to this country as a place of refuge, fleeing the greatest evil ever inflicted on a people, and Britain welcomed them.

“Communities like the one attacked in Manchester provided safety, but also the security that comes from a promise that this is a country that stands up to hatred and that we don’t just provide refuge, we provide a home.”

Starmer said the Jewish community in Britain will see a “more visible police presence” as he promised to do “everything in my power to guarantee you the security that you deserve”.

Protests spread in Europe

Thousands of people marched through the streets of Barcelona today to denounce Israel’s interception of a pro-Palestinian aid flotilla bound for Gaza.

Columns of demonstrators, many waving Palestinian flags, converged on the central Plaza de les Drassanes from multiple parts of Spain‘s second-largest city.

Protesters chanted slogans including “Gaza, you are not alone,” “Boycott Israel,” and “Freedom for Palestine.”

Other protests were reported in other Spanish cities tonight, including Madrid, Valencia, and Bilbao.

Thousands also gathered in Italy on Thursday in support of the Gaza aid flotilla ahead of a strike in solidarity with activists.

As dusk fell in Rome, several thousand protesters gathered near the Colosseum in solidarity with the flotilla and against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s support of Israel — a day after a similar protest on Wednesday evening.

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Footage showed Israeli forces boarding the boats and detaining activists, including Greta Thunberg, as they headed for war-ravaged Gaza.

In video footage, Greta Thunberg can be seen being detained, as well as onboard vision of the flotilla at the time of the interception.

In a statement posted to the social media platform X, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said: “several vessels of the Hamas-Sumud flotilla have been safely stopped and their passengers are being transferred to an Israeli port”.

“Greta and her friends are safe and healthy”.

In a second post, the ministry shared two images of the flotilla activists, saying: “Hamas-Sumud passengers on their yachts are making their way safely and peacefully to Israel, where their deportation procedures to Europe will begin”.

“The passengers are safe and in good health,” the post ended.

Activists can be seen with life jackets on, holding their hands up in the surrender position.

Yesterday, members of the Global Sumud Flotilla reported army personnel jumped onboard and “illegally intercepted” their journey just hours after they were circled by a warship.

The humanitarian convoy was attempting to get essential aid, including baby formula and medication, to Gaza.

The Global Sumud Flotilla is made up of more than 40 civilian boats carrying an estimated 500 parliamentarians, lawyers and activists, including Thunberg.

On Wednesday, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, said the activists aboard the flotilla will be deported once the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur ends on Thursday.

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Deaves picked up from where he left off last season, impressing in Ospreys’ opening round defeat to Bulls in the United Rugby Championship (URC).

And Jones believes that continued good form has put him in Wales contention.

“I’d be surprised if he [Deaves] is not in the international conversation right now,” said Jones.

“If you look at his post-contact metres, he’s the highest in our squad. He beats defenders and wins collisions in his own way, not just with brute force.

“He’s got a good skillset and is super aggressive. They’re all the traits you associate with an international player.”

Deaves, who still coaches at his hometown club of Pontyclun, said a Wales call would be reward for defying the odds during his early career.

“I was a late developer and playing in a tough position, always being called too small and stuff like that,” said 5ft 11in (1.80m) Deaves.

“The size of my heart had to take over sometimes and I’d like to say that still carries on now.

“It’s about making my village proud, I love representing my village and giving back to my family. [But] I just need to focus on where I am right now.”

A 32-YEAR-OLD man who was breastfed by a 60-year-old woman has been jailed.

Michael Jones, of Caernarfon, Wales, was sentenced to 15 months behind bars after he reportedly became “obsessed” with the woman and locked onto her as a way of “getting back at his mother”.

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Yesterday, Caernarfon Crown Court heard that Jones was handed a restraining order after assaulting the woman but breached the order three times.

On one of these occasions, he “breastfed” from her for 10 minutes, the court heard.

Another time, prosecutor Amy Edwards said the woman saw Jones looking “tired” on a cycle path so left him a bottle of water.

She said the pair spoke online that evening and arranged to meet up in a park in Caernarfon later that summer.

The court heard the woman told Jones she wanted to end the relationship, insisting it was a “mother and son” dynamic.

Edwards said Jones then became emotional, reportedly telling the 60-year-old he had a “hatred towards women” and an “odd fascination” with women’s breasts.

She said they met again a few days later and kissed “consensually”.

The woman then allowed Jones to “breast feed for 10 minutes”.

Jones told the 60-year-old he engaged with women her age as a way of “getting back” at his mum, the court heard.

Matters escalated, however, when Jones later called the woman up claiming he was “starving”.

When she arrived at his flat, he initially didn’t let her leave.

She said the experience left her so scared, her health deteriorated as a result.

She told the court: “I know he’s obsessed with me. I know from experience that the obsession is dangerous.”

Defence lawyer Dafydd Roberts, said the woman was “more prepared to have contact than she admits” though conceded Jones does have “attachment problems”.

Roberts said: “He knows he should not have been having contact with her but he could not stop himself.”

Judge Nicola Jones concluded the woman had been “very complicit” in the course of events.

She told the defendant that while he had mental health problems, he had breached his restraining order three time and would therefore face time behind bars.

FAMILIES can now receive a cut of £56million in energy bill support from a ‘Big Six’ supplier.

From today, OVO Energy is handing out free electric blankets as one of its ways to help customers with rising energy bills.

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The supplier runs the extra support service for users all year round, but is now increasing the amount of aid it’s giving out ahead of the winter months.

Since 2022, OVO has given £190million in aid, including heated blankets, smart sockets, and efficiency kits, helping 42,000 customers last year.

The latest £56million package includes free energy-saving products and direct financial support.

And it’s not just electric blankets that you could bag for free.

OVO is also giving away mattress toppers and home efficiency kits to struggling households as part of the scheme.

Customers could also receive a wide range of energy-saving measures installed through ECO4 – from loft insulation to a new boiler, or even high-end tech like heat pumps.

Eligible customers could get a whole package installed, all for free.

Financial support including Direct Debit reductions, emergency credit top-ups, and extended repayment plans are also being offered.

To check your entitlement, visit ovoenergy.com/extra-support.

Ovo is separately campaigning for the introduction of a social tariff to protect vulnerable customers from high energy prices and combat fuel poverty across the UK.

David Buttress, chief executive of OVO, said: “We’re providing support to those who need it most by working together with our charity partners and committing our largest ever customer support package.”

“But this isn’t a long term solution.

“We need to make the energy system work better for everyone.

“That starts with targeted support in the form of a social tariff – no one can be, or no one needs to be left behind.”

What other grants are available?

There are several other ways households can boost their home’s energy efficiency and save money through a variety of grants.

From insulation and boiler upgrades to modifications for disabled residents, financial assistance can cover a substantial portion of your home improvement costs.

Some grants may even cover up to £50,000 worth of home improvements.

Great British insulation scheme – £1,000s

You can get help insulating your home through the Government’s Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) if you’re not eligible under the ECO scheme.

GBIS is open to an extra 400,000 households in council tax bands A to E across England, Wales and Scotland who might not be claiming benefits.

To qualify, you must have an energy performance certificate rating of D or lower.

You could be in line for essential upgrades to your home, including roof, loft or cavity wall insulation – which could cut your annual energy bill by £100s.

Check whether you meet the eligibility criteria by visiting gov.uk/apply-great-british-insulation-scheme.

Boiler upgrade scheme – £7,500

Through the boiler upgrade scheme, you could get a grant to cover part of the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with a heat pump or biomass boiler.

You can get one grant per property, towards help with the following:

• £7,500 towards an air source heat pump
• £7,500 towards a ground source heat pump (including water source heat pumps and those on shared ground loops)
• £5,000 towards a biomass boiler

To qualify for this scheme you must own the property you are looking to upgrade.

You must find an MCS-certified installer to claim the grant on your behalf.

MCS is the certification scheme for energy-efficiency product installers.

You can find the nearest ones to you by visiting www.mcscertified.com/find-an-installer, but it is worth shopping for a few quotes.

Home upgrade grant – £1,000s

The home upgrade grant provides funding for various energy efficiency measures for homes that are not connected to the gas grid, often in rural or semi-rural areas.

To be eligible, you must own and live in the property you’re applying for and not use a mains gas boiler as your home’s main heating system.

You’ll also need an performance certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F or G – if you do not know your home’s EPC you can find it out when you apply.

You’ll usually need to have a household income of £36,000 a year or less.

If you’re eligible, your local council will arrange a home survey to see how your home could be made more energy efficient.

They might suggest improvements like installing wall, loft and underfloor insulation, air source heat pumps, electric radiators

Find out more by visiting gov.uk/apply-home-upgrade-grant.

What energy bill help is available?

There’s a number of different ways to get help paying your energy bills if you’re struggling to get by.

If you fall into debt, you can always approach your supplier to see if they can put you on a repayment plan before putting you on a prepayment meter.

This involves paying off what you owe in instalments over a set period.

If your supplier offers you a repayment plan you don’t think you can afford, speak to them again to see if you can negotiate a better deal.

Several energy firms have schemes available to customers struggling to cover their bills.

But eligibility criteria vary depending on the supplier and the amount you can get depends on your financial circumstances.

For example, British Gas or Scottish Gas customers struggling to pay their energy bills can get grants worth up to £2,000.

British Gas also offers help via its British Gas Energy Trust and Individuals Family Fund.

You don’t need to be a British Gas customer to apply for the second fund.

EDF, E.ON, Octopus Energy and Scottish Power all offer grants to struggling customers too.

Thousands of vulnerable households are missing out on extra help and protections by not signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).

The service helps support vulnerable households, such as those who are elderly or ill.

Some of the perks include being given advance warning of blackouts, free gas safety checks and extra support if you’re struggling.

Get in touch with your energy firm to see if you can apply.

Before facing England on the field, Wales have been taking on their neighbours by trying to convince Tottenham Hotspur winger Mikey Moore to switch international allegiance to play for them.

Moore, who is on loan at Scottish Premiership side Rangers, has represented England Under-19s but qualifies for Wales through a grandparent.

BBC Sport Wales revealed last week that the Football Association of Wales (FAW) had contacted the 18-year-old Londoner, with Bellamy among those to have spoken to him.

“We look at every player that’s available,” he said. “I’d prefer it if it wasn’t aired, if I’m being honest, it does us no favours.

“We do our work behind the scenes. We do it for every player we feel is going to offer us something, but I’m always against pressure from the outside.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of players we feel would definitely benefit us in the future – we need a big squad, so we’re always aware of that. We would be naive not to be aware of it.

“No individual, I don’t believe, especially young players, should be in the public domain. I understand it but it’s not how I go about it. For me to mention individuals, I never do.

“But for us, we’re always aware of who can represent us. Do they have the mentality, do they have the ability to add to us? And if they do, then we’re always aware and always trying to be as active as we can, as we have been for a number of years.”

A PENSIONER has died after reportedly falling from a window at a care home.

Emergency crews were scrambled to Berrycroft Manor care home in Romiley, Stockport, on Monday morning.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed a 78-year-old woman was taken to hospital following a fall and died the following day.

It is understood the woman fell from a window, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The care facility’s manager described the incident as a “tragic accident” and said an investigation is underway.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the care home and medical provider regulator, is aware of the incident.

Michael Blissett, home manager at Berrycroft Manor, said: “This was a tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are very much with the family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to them.

“Everyone here is shocked and saddened by the accident. Investigations are still continuing as to exactly how this has happened.

“Safety here is paramount and we are working with HSE [Health and Safety Executive] and CQC to ensure this never happens again.”

A GMP spokesperson added: “Shortly after 7.30am yesterday (September 29), officers responded to reports of a concern for the welfare of a woman following a fall at a care home on Berrycroft Lane, Stockport.

“Emergency services attended but sadly, a 78-year-old woman died from her injuries in hospital later that day.

“Her family are currently being supported. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of her death.”

A CQC spokesperson said: “CQC has been made aware of the death of a resident at Berrycroft Manor in Stockport, and our condolences are with the family at this sad time.

“We are in close contact with the home and police as they look into the circumstances around this incident, so we can understand if there is any regulatory action that needs taken to ensure people are receiving safe care.

“CQC’s priority, at all times, is the health and wellbeing of people using health and social care services, and all information we receive informs our monitoring of services and future inspections.

“We’d encourage anyone who has concerns about a health and social care service to let us know. This can be done by emailing [email protected] or via our customer service centre on 03000 616161.”

Do you know more? Email [email protected]

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Goalkeepers: Karl Darlow (Leeds United), Adam Davies (Sheffield United), Tom King (Everton).

Defenders: Ben Cabango (Swansea City), Jay Dasilva (Coventry City), Ben Davies (Tottenham Hotspur), Ronan Kpakio (Cardiff City), Dylan Lawlor (Cardiff City), Chris Mepham (West Bromwich Albion), Joe Rodon (Leeds United), Neco Williams (Nottingham Forest).

Midfielders: Ethan Ampadu (Leeds United), David Brooks (Bournemouth), Jordan James (Stade Rennais), Aaron Ramsey (Pumas UNAM), Josh Sheehan (Bolton Wanderers), Sorba Thomas (Stoke City), Harry Wilson (Fulham), Joel Colwill (Cardiff City).

Forwards: Nathan Broadhead (Wrexham), Liam Cullen (Swansea City), Mark Harris (Oxford United), Lewis Koumas (Birmingham City – on loan from Liverpool), Daniel James (Leeds United), Brennan Johnson (Tottenham Hotspur), Kieffer Moore (Wrexham).