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Richard Bacon Thanks NHS on 75th Anniversary with Coma Image Tribute

Richard Bacon Thanks NHS on 75th Anniversary with Coma Image Tribute

Public Figures Show Appreciation for NHS Milestone

Richard Bacon, the 47-year-old former Blue Peter host, marked the NHS’s 75th anniversary by sharing a poignant image from 2018, showing him in a coma while hospitalised. Bacon, who fell critically ill on a flight from Los Angeles to London, credited the National Health Service and 40 medical staff at Lewisham Hospital for saving his life. “Thanks for everything you did for me 5 years ago today NHS,” he tweeted, praising his consultant and the health service’s daily impact on over a million patients.

Bacon joined numerous celebrities expressing their gratitude. Former Countdown host Carol Vorderman, 62, reflected on the NHS’s life-saving role throughout her family’s medical crises, including her emergency care and her mother Jean’s cancer battle. Welsh doctor and former Love Island contestant Alex George also lauded the NHS for saving him from sepsis and for welcoming him as a young doctor.

Scottish comedian Janey Godley credited the NHS for her survival from both Rhesus disease and ovarian cancer. Sharing her appreciation in a heartfelt video, she underscored the NHS’s role in keeping her alive.

Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer, whose father recently passed away in a Merseyside hospital, called the NHS “the jewel in the crown of our country,” highlighting the compassionate care his family received during his father’s final days. Rimmer, like many, stressed the vital importance of cherishing and supporting the service.

This wave of gratitude reflects widespread appreciation and recognition of the NHS’s enduring dedication to patient care over the past 75 years.

Spain U21 vs Ukraine U21: Euro 2023 Semi-Final Live Stream Details

Spain U21 vs Ukraine U21: Euro 2023 Semi-Final Live Stream Details

How to Watch the Game in the UK for Free

Spain U21 faces Ukraine U21 today in a highly anticipated clash in the European Under-21 Championship semi-finals. The match will determine who advances to the final to face either England or Israel. Both Spain and Ukraine have displayed strong performances in Romania and Georgia, making this a must-watch encounter.

Chelsea fans may have extra interest, as Spanish star Gabri Veiga, a reported Blues transfer target, will be on display, alongside Ukraine’s standout Mykhailo Mudryk, who has been in excellent form. The two sides previously drew 2-2 during the group stage, adding intrigue to their rematch at the Steaua Stadium in Bucharest. Spain’s unbeaten streak of 14 games will be tested against a resurgent Ukraine boosted by Mudryk’s return.

Where to Watch Spain U21 vs Ukraine U21

TV and Live Stream: Unfortunately, the game will not be televised on any UK channels.
Streaming Option: However, you can catch the action via a live stream on the UEFA website, with coverage starting at 8pm BST.

RTÉ Legal Concerns Surround Agreement Underwriting

RTÉ Legal Concerns Surround Agreement Underwriting

Interim Deputy Director-General Cites Legal Privilege in Response to Questions

RTÉ’s interim deputy director-general, Adrian Lynch, disclosed that former Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy is still receiving payments from the national broadcaster despite being off-air due to “editorial reasons” following revelations about misstated payments. Lynch, testifying before the Oireachtas media committee, explained that ongoing negotiations over a radio contract for Tubridy were paused due to the controversy, and certain contract elements remain disputed with Tubridy’s agent.

While Tubridy stepped down from television earlier this year, he continued with a weekday radio slot. Lynch confirmed Tubridy’s absence from next week’s broadcast. Committee members interrogated both current and former RTÉ executives about the organisation’s highest-paid presenter’s pay negotiations. Responding to Brendan Griffin, ex-chief financial officer Breda O’Keeffe clarified that Tubridy and his agent did not entirely refuse a pay reduction but disagreed on its extent.

O’Keeffe added that by the time of her departure in early 2020, there had been no RTÉ commitment to underwrite a commercial deal involving Tubridy and Renault. She only became aware of this arrangement’s underwriting—which led to RTÉ compensating Tubridy €150,000 after Renault’s 2021-2022 withdrawal—via recent media reports.

Senator Timmy Dooley raised questions about a three-way agreement among RTÉ, Renault, and Tubridy, which O’Keeffe claimed she had not seen underwritten before her departure. RTÉ commercial director Geraldine O’Leary indicated she “should have signed” the deal but was unable to explain specific missing figures, while Lynch revealed that a verbal agreement with Tubridy’s agent underpinned the contract. This verbal agreement reportedly originated from a May 2020 commitment by then-director-general Dee Forbes.

O’Keeffe stated that all relevant details about the Tubridy arrangement were passed to her successor, CFO Richard Collins. Collins acknowledged the likelihood of discussing underwriting specifics, but could not recall with certainty.

Alan Dillon TD pressed Collins on the rejection of Tubridy’s agent’s request for a taxpayer-backed guarantee. Collins affirmed the rejection, while Lynch asserted that subsequent underwriting discussions fell under legal privilege, citing RTÉ’s need to maintain independence and rely on legal guidance due to its editorial role.

Nine Injured, Including Two Children, in Targeted Drive-By Shooting in Washington DC

Nine Injured, Including Two Children, in Targeted Drive-By Shooting in Washington DC

The incident occurred during July 4 celebrations in the city’s northeast, with police suspecting it was a targeted attack.

A drive-by shooting in Washington DC has left nine people injured, including two children, during the city’s July 4 celebrations. The shooting took place around 1am ET on Meade Street in the northeast part of the capital, where residents were gathered for Independence Day festivities.

According to the DC Metropolitan Police Department, a dark-coloured SUV drove through the area before stopping and firing shots at those gathered outside. Assistant Chief Leslie Parsons confirmed in a press briefing that the shooting appeared to be targeted at specific individuals. All nine victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including a 9-year-old and a 17-year-old. Some victims were taken to local hospitals, while others sought treatment independently.

Police are currently searching for the dark SUV and are asking anyone with information, photos, or footage to contact them. The shooting follows a spate of gun violence during the holiday, including mass shootings in Philadelphia and Fort Worth, Texas. President Joe Biden has reiterated his calls for stronger gun control measures following the incidents.

Fiona Phillips Receives Outpouring of Support Following Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

Fiona Phillips Receives Outpouring of Support Following Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

The former GMTV presenter has been overwhelmed by messages from political figures and media colleagues alike.

Fiona Phillips, the former GMTV presenter, has been left deeply moved by the overwhelming public support she has received since announcing her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. In a heartfelt message shared with the Daily Mirror, Phillips, 62, revealed that she had been diagnosed over a year ago with the condition, which has affected multiple members of her family, including her mother, father, grandparents, and uncle.

This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby, who expressed her sadness at the diagnosis, highlighted the cruelty of the situation, given Phillips’ family history with Alzheimer’s. Willoughby added that the support pouring in from viewers has been a source of comfort for Phillips and her family, with many kind messages coming through the show.

In addition to the public’s support, Phillips has received messages from Labour MPs Harriet Harman, Yvette Cooper, and Jess Phillips, along with former Daily Mirror editor Kevin Maguire. Fellow ex-GMTV presenters, including Eamonn Holmes and Lorraine Kelly, also expressed their solidarity with Phillips during this challenging time.

Martin Frizell, Phillips’ husband and former GMTV editor, described feeling “sick” upon hearing the diagnosis and reflected on the tragic legacy of Alzheimer’s in the family. He described the impact as “riddled” with the condition, acknowledging the emotional toll it has taken.

Presenter Vanessa Feltz, who has known Phillips for over 30 years, praised her courage in sharing her story, stressing how important it is for families facing similar challenges. Feltz also called for increased funding and research into Alzheimer’s, noting the profound impact of the condition on so many lives.

On GB News, Holmes reflected on Phillips’ longstanding fears about the disease, given her family’s history with it. He expressed sympathy for the difficulties that those who are affected by Alzheimer’s, like Phillips, face every day, and wished her the very best moving forward.

Yorkshire’s Mishandling of Racism Case Leads to Sanctions

Yorkshire’s Mishandling of Racism Case Leads to Sanctions

Baroness Grey-Thompson admits club’s response to Azeem Rafiq’s case was poor, with penalties imminent.

Yorkshire is facing disciplinary action following its mishandling of the racism case involving former player Azeem Rafiq. The Cricket Discipline Commission is set to impose sanctions on the club for their inadequate response to Rafiq’s claims of bullying and racial discrimination, which were confirmed in an official investigation.

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, who has served as the club’s interim chair since March, appeared before the Culture, Media and Sport committee, echoing criticism of the club’s actions. She described Yorkshire’s handling of the case as flawed at every stage, leading to the current consequences. “Yorkshire is paying the price for this mishandling,” she stated.

While a minority of club members still resist calls for change, Grey-Thompson noted that most are eager for reform and want to move forward. The England and Wales Cricket Board has recommended a £500,000 fine, with £350,000 suspended for three years, along with points deductions in various formats. Yorkshire, however, has urged that any sanctions be put on hold, highlighting the reforms already in place since Lord Patel’s appointment as chair in late 2021.

King Charles Shares Rum Toast with Former Royal Yacht Britannia Crew

King Charles Shares Rum Toast with Former Royal Yacht Britannia Crew

Reunion Celebrates Maritime Tradition as King Reminisces with Ex-Sailors

King Charles Shares Rum Toast with Former Royal Yacht Britannia Crew
Reunion Celebrates Maritime Tradition as King Reminisces with Ex-Sailors
Category: National

King Charles marked a nostalgic return to the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith, Scotland, where he joined former crew members in a traditional rum toast. The monarch’s visit, the first in more than 25 years since the vessel was decommissioned in 1997, revived memories of life aboard the ship once considered a “home” for the royal family during its 43 years of service. Charles raised a tot of rum in a traditional navy toast with the “Yachties,” acknowledging their dedication with the words, “To all the marvellous Yachties who keep it all going, you are all brilliant.”

The practice of daily rum rations for Royal Navy sailors ended in 1970, but the late Queen Elizabeth II occasionally allowed Britannia’s crew to partake on special occasions. Charles playfully puffed his cheeks after taking a sip of the potent Pusser’s Rum, to the amusement of those present. A dropped glass during the gathering added to the lighthearted atmosphere.

Former crew members, now part of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen, spoke warmly of their time aboard Britannia, recalling its role as both a diplomatic tool and a private retreat for the royals. Mark Carron, a former crew member, shared anecdotes from his conversation with Charles, noting the King’s fondness for the distinctive scent of rum. Britannia’s unique position as a place where the royal family could relax away from public scrutiny was emphasised by former marine engineer Wiz Wiseman, who recounted tales of life and discipline on board.

The King’s naval service, which included commanding HMS Bronington until 1976, followed the end of the free rum ration era. Nonetheless, Britannia’s legacy endures as a symbol of royal family life and diplomacy, having traversed more than a million nautical miles during its operational years.

Banks Called to Answer for Low Savings Rates Amid Soaring Mortgage Costs

Banks Called to Answer for Low Savings Rates Amid Soaring Mortgage Costs

FCA Urges Leading UK Banks to Justify Failure to Increase Savings Rates in Line with Interest Rises

Top executives from major UK banks, including HSBC, NatWest, Barclays, and Lloyds, are due to meet with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in response to concerns over the widening gap between savings rates and rising mortgage costs. The meeting follows accusations of “blatant profiteering” by banks, as savings rates continue to fall short of expectations despite the Bank of England’s base interest rate hitting 5%.

Members of the Treasury Committee, led by Dame Andrea Leadsom and Dame Angela Eagle, have expressed frustration at the banks’ failure to increase savings rates in a manner that reflects the 5% base rate. They have written to the banks demanding explanations, arguing that savings rates, such as the average 2.43% for easy-access accounts, are too low when compared to typical mortgage rates of 6.42% for homeowners.

With a new consumer duty coming into effect later this year, which requires banks to prioritise the interests of their customers, the issue of fairness and transparency in financial dealings has come under increased scrutiny. Ministers, including Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride, have voiced concerns about the banks’ conduct, urging that they be held accountable for the slow pace of change.

The meeting between the FCA and bank leaders is seen as a crucial moment for both the regulator and the public, as banks face increasing pressure to align their savings offerings with the higher interest rates impacting borrowers.

Labour Promises Local Decision-Making with More Power for Communities

Labour Promises Local Decision-Making with More Power for Communities

Angela Rayner pledges Labour will give people a ‘bigger stake’ in the future of their areas

A Labour government will empower local communities to make decisions affecting their future, according to Deputy Leader Angela Rayner. In a speech at the Local Government Association (LGA) conference, Rayner will announce that under Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, local people will have more control and a “bigger stake” in shaping their towns, cities, and neighbourhoods.

Rayner’s address will highlight Labour’s commitment to devolving more powers from Westminster, with the promise of a new bill in the first King’s Speech of a Labour administration. This initiative, dubbed the “Take Back Control Bill” by Starmer, mirrors the Brexit slogan of the Leave campaign and is part of Labour’s broader plan to decentralise authority and enable communities to direct their own future.

The announcement follows Labour’s strong performance in local elections earlier this year, where the party became the largest at the council level in England. Rayner’s speech will emphasise the party’s intention to deliver “genuine devolution” in its first term, ensuring that decisions that impact local wealth and development are made by those who have “skin in the game.”

In a sharp critique of current government policies, Rayner will call out the economic insecurity and housing shortages under the Conservative government, which she claims has stifled opportunity. She will also celebrate the success of Labour’s local election victories, framing them as the beginning of a “new era” for the party.

Responding to the speech, a Conservative spokesman accused Labour of political opportunism, highlighting what they described as contradictions in the party’s stance on local decision-making and housing policies. Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove is also expected to speak at the LGA conference.

Leaf Blowers Deployed on Centre Court During Djokovic’s Wimbledon Match

Leaf Blowers Deployed on Centre Court During Djokovic’s Wimbledon Match

Unusual scenes unfold as rain delays play and Djokovic waits for the grass to dry.

Wimbledon fans were treated to a bizarre spectacle on Centre Court as Novak Djokovic and his opponent Pedro Cachin waited for the grass to dry before resuming their match. A light drizzle forced the roof to be closed after Djokovic claimed the first set 6-3. However, unlike on Court One, play did not resume as expected.

After the roof was deployed, both players came out to inspect the surface, but Djokovic, visibly displeased with the slippery conditions, headed back to the locker room. He returned shortly after, holding a towel which he amusingly used to wipe down the court, much to the amusement of the crowd.

As the rain stopped, ground staff were seen using leaf blowers to speed up the drying process, a somewhat comical sight on the prestigious grass courts. Despite the rain ceasing, play had still not resumed, and it was eventually decided to open the roof to allow conditions to improve before the second set could begin.