stats count News – Page 537 – Meer Beek

News

Category Added in a WPeMatico Campaign

Royal Navy patrols stepped up in Indo-Pacific to counter growing threat of Chinese aggression

ROYAL Navy patrols are being stepped up in the Indo-Pacific to counter the growing threat of Chinese aggression.

Sir Keir Starmer said the increased visible presence of vessels is vital to British security.

a large ship is being towed by tugboats in the water
Alamy
Royal Navy patrols are being stepped up in the Indo-Pacific to counter growing Chinese threats[/caption]

His intervention, to protect maritime routes and Pacific economies, comes after a foreign policy review last year identified China as an “epoch-defining challenge”.

The PM, meeting Commonwealth leaders in Samoa, said: “As responsible international players, we cannot turn a blind eye to the challenges faced by our friends and partners on the other side of the world.

“So my message today is clear: this is just the beginning of our commitment to the Indo-Pacific.

“I truly believe we can create unique opportunities for people both in the Pacific and at home, and in doing so, we play our part in ensuring a safer, fairer world.”

The UK has two patrol vessels permanently in the region — HMS Spey and HMS Tamar.

And the Carrier Strike Group will visit Singapore next year to strengthen ties there.

China’s President Xi Jinping has just joined other heads of government at the BRICS summit in Russia, where Vladimir Putin desperately tried to show that attempts to isolate him over his Ukraine invasion are not working.

The Sun reported in February that China had crafted an unstoppable military under Xi Jinping’s ruthless dictatorship which posed the greatest threat to the world order.

As the West steels itself for global conflict, Europe is struggling to keep up with Beijing‘s formidable £175billion army and nuclear arsenal.

And experts warned The Sun that while Europe is focused on the raging war in Ukraine, China is ramping up its ability to unleash the full might of its forces on an unsuspecting West.

Read More »

Millions more Brits to get £1,000s in extra cash with biggest budget benefits shakeup – find out how to claim

AN extra 60,000 carers will be able to claim government cash after changes expected at next week’s Budget.

Rachel Reeves is set to raise the limit people can earn before being ineligible for the carers allowance from £151 a week to £181.

a man holds the hand of an elderly woman with a cane
Getty
An extra 60,000 carers will be able to claim government cash[/caption]
a woman sits at a table holding a piece of paper
AFP
Rachel Reeves is set to raise the limit people can earn[/caption]

The £30 uplift will be the largest increase in the threshold since the benefit was introduced in 1976.

It is the equivalent of 16 hours a week for people on the living wage.

Carers Allowance is an £81.90 weekly bung for people looking after a severely disabled child or adult.

The current earnings cap of £151 a week after income, national insurance and expenses has been criticised as far too low.

It has seen many selfless carers unknowingly bust the limit and later told to repay large sums of their benefits.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall had launched a review of the overpayments scandal.

Ms Reeves will say the raised earnings cap will reduce the likelihood of carers earning over the maximum.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said: “We found 4 in 10 unpaid carers were pushed out of work because of problems with the earnings limit, plunging many into poverty.

“This new measure will help many more unpaid carers up and down the country to stay in paid work, putting much needed finances into families’ pockets.”

It comes as households on carer’s allowance continue to face substantial repayment demands after exceeding a critical weekly earnings limit.

Figures in August revealed that over 134,500 unpaid carers are collectively repaying £251million in benefit overpayments.

The Sun has previously highlighted cases where some individuals were required to repay up to £20,000 after unknowingly breaching carer’s allowance rules.

In an effort to reform the system and prevent more people from being caught out, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has initiated an independent review on the matter.

In response to the overwhelming number of repayment demands issued to claimants, the DWP’s independent review, in collaboration with the former chief executive of Disability Rights UK, aims to investigate the causes and mechanisms behind the overpayments.

It will then recommend “operational changes” to minimise the risk of future overpayments and outline how the DWP can best support those affected by overpayment issues.

What is carer's allowance?

CARER'S allowance is a UK benefit designed to help people who have caring responsibilities for more than 35 hours each week.

Those eligible get £81.90 a week paid directly into bank accounts.

To qualify, the person you care for must already get one of these benefits:

  • Personal independence payment (PIP) – daily living component
  • Disability living allowance – the middle or highest care rate
  • Attendance allowance
  • Constant attendance allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
  • Constant attendance allowance at the basic (full day) rate with a war disablement pension
  • Armed forces independence payment

You don’t have to be related to the person or live with them to apply.

But if you share caring responsibilities with someone else, only one of you can make a claim.

The type of care you provide can vary, but includes things such as helping with washing or cooking, taking the person to medical appointments or helping out with household tasks such as shopping or organising bills.

To get the benefit, you must also meet a certain set of criteria:

  • You must be 16 or over
  • You have to spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone
  • You need to have been in England, Scotland or Wales for at least two of the last three years (this does not apply if you’re a refugee or have humanitarian protection status)
  • You must normally live in England, Scotland or Wales or live abroad as a member of the armed forces (you might still be eligible if you’re moving to or already living in an EEA country or Switzerland)
  • You cannot be in full-time education
  • You must not be studying for 21 hours a week or more
  • You cannot be subject to immigration control
  • You will also have to meet certain earnings criteria in order to get the benefit.

Your earnings must also be £151 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses.

You can apply for the carer’s allowance online by visiting www.gov.uk/carers-allowance/how-to-claim.

Read More »

‘I’ll take them all!’ hail B&M shoppers over ‘gorgeous’ new Cadbury treat

CHOCOHOLICS are going wild after a brand new Cadbury’s treat was spotted on the shelves at B&M.

The retailer has recently been stocking the shelves full of different chocolate treats – including Cadbury’s Coated Fruit & Nuts.

four jars of cadbury chocolate covered nuts in different flavors
Cadbury
Cadbury’s coated nuts and fruit are now available in B&M[/caption]

A picture of the Cadbury Coated Fruit & Nuts alongside coated peanuts and sultanas were posted to a snack review Facebook page.

So far, it has wracked up thousands of likes, comments and shares with viewers desperate to get their hands on the treats.

Nearly 7,000 overexcited chocolate lovers rushed to the comments, with one telling their friend: “I’ll take them all!”

Another commented: “Need some of these.”

And: “This is a must!”

But others were slightly shocked at the price of the chocolate – despite being in the bargain retailer B&M.

An unhappy shopper commented: “£6 tho?”

Another pointed out: “I was going to say ‘yes please’ to sultanas jar then saw price and size of them!”

Despite what may seem expensive to some, the jars are sharing-sized and are seemingly perfect for the festive season.

The new selection includes various nuts and fruits coated in the delicious Cadbury’s chocolate.

Options include peanuts, almonds, sultanas and hazelnuts.

Cadbury has plenty of other exciting ranges which prop up on shelves every once in a while.

For example, this year a Cadbury’s mint-flavoured twirl appeared on shelves in B&M, originally launched in Australia, and only £1 for four.

There’s also loads of classic fan-favourites making a comeback in time for Christmas, such as the Dairy Milk Chocolate Puds.

For individual pud it costs 75p in Sainsbury’s and just 70p in Waitrose.

You can also buy bags of mini puds for £1.65 in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Poundland.

And the rare 360g Dairy Milk mint crisp bar has returned to some shelves this year – selling cheapest in Asda for £4.

Other Cadbury Christmas bars which are available in supermarkets this year also include the Dairy Milk Classic Wonderland and Mini Snow Balls edition.

Remember to always compare prices when shopping so you know you’re paying the right amount for what you’re getting.

A great way to do this is via the comparison site Trolley which will show the prices for every store.

You can also visit the Cadbury website to browse all their latest products and launches.

It comes as B&M shoppers also went wild for a new twist on the Dream bar.

Meanwhile, chocolate lovers raved about a new type of M&M – the Candy Popcorn M&M Minis.

Nestle also added a new chocolate to its Quality Street “Favourites Golden Selection” pouch: the Toffee Penny.

How to save money on chocolate

We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don't have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how to cut costs…

Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.

Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.

Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.

Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.

They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.

Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.

So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.

Read More »

Rural drivers would suffer a ‘hammer blow’ if Rachel Reeves hikes fuel duty in the Budget

RURAL drivers would suffer a “hammer blow” if Rachel Reeves hikes fuel duty in the Budget, campaigners have warned.

Research shows they spend almost £800 more each year on petrol than those in urban areas.

a red car is driving down a country road
Research shows rural drivers spend almost £800 more each year on petrol
a sign that says " keep it down " next to a gas pump
The Sun’s Keep It Down campaign is calling for another year of held rates

The Countryside Alliance group has written to the Chancellor ahead of the Budget demanding pump levies are frozen and the 5p cut remains in place.

They say: “Pressure on rural communities’ finances remains, and so we would argue that now is not the time to let the cut lapse.”

Organisation boss Tim Bonner added: “Cars are an absolute lifeline for rural communities.

“The Government needs to spare a thought for people outside cities who can’t rely on public transport, which in many cases isn’t even an option.

“A fuel duty hike would be a hammer blow at a time when many rural people are already struggling”

Fuel duty has been frozen since 2011 and The Sun’s Keep It Down campaign is calling for another year of held rates.

Ms Reeves is under pressure to honour her pledge to protect “working people” who use their cars to travel to work every day.

Read More »

Prison guards joked about assaulting Boris Becker & mocked suicide of inmate in leaked WhatsApp msgs

PRISON guards joked about assaulting tennis champion Boris Becker and mocked the suicide of a young inmate in a series of leaked WhatsApp messages.

Warders at HMP Wandsworth quipped about serving the Wimbledon champ some “new balls” and giving him a “back hander” after he arrived at the prison in 2022 to start a two-and-a-half year sentence for hiding his assets.

a man wearing a gray jacket and a purple scarf
AP
Prison guards joked about assaulting tennis champion Boris Becker[/caption]

After one officer said how Becker “looked scared when he came in last night”, another, Kevin O’Farrell, asked “did you give him a back hander?”

O’Farrell added: “Would have been ace. Love to have seen that.

“He’ll see some new balls tonight that’s for sure.”

Becker was at Wandsworth for a few weeks as part of his two and a half year sentence, of which he served eight months, for concealing £2.5 million of assets during a bankruptcy case.

In WhatsApp messages obtained by The Times, prison guards also ridiculed a 21-year-old prisoner who took his own life, saying they hoped he “suffered” and described his death as “splendid” just hours after the incident.

Officer Armin Naroozi also posted a gif of a man dancing alongside the words “another one bites the dust” in light of the young adult’s suicide.

The group of guards were found to have also joked that it would be “good to see” some inmates tasered, while they regularly made homophobic and misogynistic remarks.

Almost 30 members of staff, including at least one senior figure, were part of the WhatsApp group.

Yesterday, a spokesman for Becker said that he previously had no knowledge of the “disturbing chat history” in the WhatsApp group.

The content “does not match his experiences in HMP Wandsworth”, adding: “The prison staff have always behaved decently and respectfully towards him.”

The Prison Service said that it had strengthened its vetting processes and introduced a whistleblowing helpline.

A spokeswoman said: “This was truly despicable behaviour that tarnishes the hard work of the overwhelming majority of our prison staff.

“The two officers involved were dismissed last year when these messages came to light and their actions were reported to police.

“Where officers do fall below our high standards, robust action will be taken as was the case here.”

Read More »

Popstar SLAMMED by fans as she cancel three gigs with ‘exhaustion’ – two minutes after doors open to venue

DISAPPOINTED fans have slammed a pop star for cancelling three upcoming gigs due to ‘exhaustion’ – minutes after doors to a venue opened.

Social media users were unimpressed as the singer shared their update online.

Getty - Contributor
Fans slammed a pop star for cancelling three gigs – including one at the last minute[/caption]
a woman in a white shirt is sitting in front of a microphone
Getty
Singer-songwriter Claire Cottrill is better known as Clairo[/caption]
a woman singing into a sennheiser microphone
Getty
The vocalist had been due to play three shows in Toronto[/caption]

Clairo – whose real name is Claire Elizabeth Cottrill – had been due to play three shows in Toronto.

Taking to X, however, the Atlanta-born vocalist wrote: “Hi everyone, I’m really sorry to inform you that I will be postponing the next three Toronto shows.

“I know this is disappointing to everyone who bought tickets to see me play but I’m struggling with extreme exhaustion and have been advised to go home until our Boston shows.”

She added: “I want you to experience the best show possible, and I’m not in a place to do that right now.

“I will share updates as I have them regarding refunds, a rescheduled show date that will honor your current tickets, etc. Please hold on to your tickets!

“I appreciate your understanding. I will make it up to you!”

The 26-year-old released her debut EP, titled Diary 001, in 2018.

Meanwhile, her third studio album, Charm, was self-released in July 2024.

Following Clairo’s announcement, fans shared their disappointment with the news.

One wrote on an online forum: “i can understand it being a hard call to make but making it before doors open is probably not too much to ask.”

Another added: “2 minutes after doors open is wild. This would turn me from a fan to a non-fan immediately.”

As a third shared: “Happened to me a few years ago when she did her detroit show and I haven’t been able to enjoy her since LOL.”

A fourth chimed in: “i don’t think “exhaustion” is a valid excuse to postpone a show 2 minutes after doors open… if you struggle with mental health wouldn’t you know that before?”

Yet another remarked: “Big yikes.

“Cancelling two minutes after doors open would be enough for me to no longer be a fan honestly.

“I understand they’re human too, but you need to make these kind of decisions in a timely fashion…especially when people have paid hotel rooms or flights.

“Some people even end up using their only PTO available that they’ve saved up all year. Can’t get that back.

“Two minutes after doors open is a disrespectful smack in the face.”

TORONTO, ONTARIO - JULY 26: Clairo performs on stage at HISTORY as part of "The Sling Tour" on July 26, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Mathew Tsang/Getty Images)
The star’s third album, titled Charm, was self-released in July 2024
GETTY

Read More »

‘I was in tears everyday’ says Fern Britton as she fuels Strictly scandal with new revelations about pro partner

FERN Britton has lifted the lid on her Strictly Come Dancing stint and claims she was ‘in tears everyday’.

The telly icon, 67, took part in the BBC show in 2012 but still has strong memories about her time in the ballroom.

a woman stands in front of a wall that says this morning
Rex
Fern Britton claims she was in ‘tears’ before Strictly Come Dancing rehearsals[/caption]
a woman in a blue dress is dancing with a shirtless man
PA:Press Association
The star also claims her confidence was knocked by her partner Artem Chigvintsev[/caption]

Fern, who was partnered with Russian dancer Artem Chigvintsev, has revealed she would cry before rehearsals.

In a serialisation of her book Fern Britton The Older I Get in the Daily Mail, the former This Morning star also said her partner made a cutting comment when they were first put together.

She penned: “I asked him if he was OK with having me as a partner and he said, ‘Well, I am used to someone with some dance ability, and younger.’

“My confidence took a hit at that, but I laughed and told him I didn’t feel 55, and that, when I had a drink in me, I was a sensational dancer. He did not laugh.”

Describing the rehearsals as “challenging”, Fern added: “As the weeks went on, I found it increasingly hard to gather up my self-confidence and there were days I was crying before I even got into the rehearsal room.”

Fern even says: “Late one evening, when I simply couldn’t get the steps in my head and we were both tired, he looked at me and said: ‘Go home before I kill you.’ It was a joke. I laughed. ‘Kill me, please.”

This not the first time Fern has hit out at her time on Strictly.

She previously told The Times: “He would look at my feet and just kick me or shove me.”

Fern and Artem finished Strictly Come Dancing in 10th place. It ended up being Chigvintsev’s worst performance on the BBC show.

In 2017, Artem moved to Dancing With The Stars in the US where he was partnered with his future wife Nikki Garcia – also known as Nikki Bella in the WWE world.

The pair married in 2022 and share a son, who was born in 2020.

Earlier this year, Artem denied Fern’s claims of him ‘kicking or shoving her’ during tense rehearsals.

He told the Daily Express: “I believe I treated Fern with respect and genuine care and these claims about me are the opposite of everything I believe in and the person I am.

“I cannot imagine what has prompted such statements which come as a shock to me.”

The Sun has contacted Artem’s reps following Fern’s most recent claims.

Strictly has been rocked by a huge crisis this year and Fern’s new allegation that she would ‘cry before rehearsals’ only adds to the pressure.

The BBC recently released its findings following an investigation into Amanda Abbington‘s claims about Italian pro Giovanni Pernice.

Strictly 2024 pairings

Here's who is matched with who this series...

The investigation upheld six of Amanda’s complaints, with sources saying those six related to verbal bullying and harassment.

He was cleared of a further 10 allegations.

Sherlock star Amanda, 50, quit Strictly Come Dancing last year and later made a formal complaint about Giovanni, along with three of his former dance partners.

He quit Strictly in May and is now working on the Italian version of the show.

Speaking on ITV1’s Lorraine this week, Giovanni said: “The investigation didn’t find me a bully.

“Bully is a big word, there’s a big difference between bullying and caring about what you do.”

Meanwhile, fellow Italian professional Graziano Di Prima was axed this year for kicking celebrity dance partner Zara McDermott in rehearsals.

a woman in a blue dress with fringe is smiling
PA:Press Association
Fern appeared on Strictly in 2012[/caption]
a man and a woman are dancing on a dance floor
BBC
Fern and Artem finished the show in 10th place[/caption]
a man is carrying a woman in a pink dress on a dance floor
BBC
Her new claims are the latest to rock Strictly Come Dancing[/caption]

Read More »

Horse racing tips: Templegate aims for three winning NAPs in a row with ‘highly impressive’ 7-2 best bet

TEMPLEGATE tackles a huge Saturday of racing confident of making it three winning NAPS in a row.

Back a horse by clicking their odds – and get on the exclusive BOOSTED double with talkSPORT bet HERE (*odds subject to change).

THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE

The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.

Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…

  • Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
  • Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
  • Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
  • Exclusive insights from Andrew Balding and Hayley Turner
  • VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
  • New customer offer with Coral

Become a member today for just £1*

*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.

SIGN UP NOW

18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact help@thesun.co.uk

WIMBLEDON HAWKEYE (2.40 Doncaster, nap)

He was highly impressive when winning the Group 2 Royal Lodge at Newmarket last time. He powered home over the mile in tacky ground, clocking a good time in the process. His sire Kameko won this race five years ago and he can follow in his hoofprints.

BROADWAY BOY (2.20 Cheltenham, nb)

He threatened to be top class last season and landed Graded and handicap wins here early in the campaign. The move to the highest level was too much for him though and local trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies – who always targets this meeting – wisely lowers his sights for this comeback. He jumps well and still looks on a fair handicap mark so this front-runner can go close.

BACK THE BOOSTED DOUBLE WITH talkSPORT BET HERE (*odds subject to change)

ABERAMA GOLD (2.05 Doncaster, treble)

He landed his last win in this race 12 months ago and is back from 11lb lower in the handicap. He likes testing ground and went close behind Vintage Clarets at Catterick last time despite not getting the run of the race. He’ll go close again.

Templegate’s TV verdicts

CHELTENHAM

1.10

MARV MICHAEL was useful over hurdles but took his form to a new level when scooting in on chase debut at Kilbeggan.

He jumped superbly in front and didn’t see a rival. That was over this trip and he should improve. Cheltenham’s hill should be right up his street.

Will Carver scored on his first spin over fences for Nicky Henderson at Cartmel before a late mistake proved costly at Uttoxeter last time. He’s had a wind op since that effort and is open to improvement.

Guard Your Dreams held on to win by a nose on his chase debut at Warwick three weeks ago. He won a Grade 2 here at his hurdling best and jumped well. He should build on that good start.

Riskintheground is one of the more experienced over fences in the field but needs to improve on his Newton Abbot third last time.

Weveallbeencaught was a good sixth in the Ultima at this year’s Festival but would prefer a longer trip.

1.45

MILLFORCE won well on debut at Bellewstown before a couple of mistakes proved costly at Cork earlier this month.

He still did well to finish second and he should improve for that experience. Henry De Bromhead’s hopeful is a proven stayer who has more to come.

Intense Approach won a couple of minor contests before stepping into the Grade 2 Persian War at Chepstow two weeks ago.

He more than held his own there in finishing second but he does throw in the odd error. He shapes as though this longer trip will suit.

Fine Margin landed three novice wins on the spin in Britain for Willie Mullins before coming a cropper at Worcester last time.

The soft ground may have been to blame and it’s too early to write him off although he needs to find more here.

Donnie Devito looks ready for this longer distance but needs to improve on his modest Listowel run last month.

2.20

BROADWAY BOY threatened to be top class last season and landed Graded and handicap wins here early in the campaign.

The move to the highest level was too much for him though and local trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies – who always targets this meeting – wisely lowers his sights for this comeback.

He jumps well and still looks on a fair handicap mark so this front-runner can go close.

Some Scope progressed nicely last term and went close off this mark at Donny before finishing the campaign with a fourth around here. This six-year-old has more to offer.

Le Milos won the Coral Gold Cup in 2022 but has been hit and miss since. He ran well in the Bet365 Gold Cup when last seen and is only 1lb higher than his last winning mark.

His best form would make him a contender for the Skeltons.

Chasing Fire signed off last season with a game win at Perth and has no issues seeing out this trip. He’s up 6lb for that but should be competitive.

It’s still early days over fences for Senior Chief who didn’t stay in the Irish National last time. He earlier won well at Punchestown and the first-time cheekpieces may help.

2.55

ZAIN NIGHTS landed the hat-trick when taking a hot contest at Haydock last time.

That built well on a win over this course and distance in April where he powered up the hill. He’s creeping up the weights but looks open to lots of improvement and likes a sound surface.

The Wallpark comes over for Gordon Elliott with every chance. He is another with a hat-trick and he stays strongly. He has a bigger hike in the weights to defy but hasn’t stopped improving yet.

Supreme Gift was a couple of lengths behind the tip when they met here in April but is better off at the weights today and can’t be overlooked.

Gowel Road was a solid sixth in the Pertemps Final at the Festival and should have another good season.

3.30

BOTTLER’SECRET would ideally have the ground a bit softer but his class can see him home.

He was useful on the Flat and won two Graded hurdles last season before going close in the Irish Champion Juvenile at Punchestown. Nothing else in the field comes close to that standard.

Givemefive is fit from the Flat and was a good second in the Adonis at Kempton in February before a poor run in Ireland. He’d appreciate some rain but is good enough to take the forecast spot.

Dodger Long didn’t have a lot to beat at Chepstow last time but did it easily and deserves this crack at a higher grade. He’ll need to improve but it’s early days.

4.05

YEATS STAR looked a handy recruit to chasing when winning by more than three lengths at Listowel last month.

He jumped nicely there and should appreciate this longer trip where he showed his best over hurdles. Trainer Gordon Elliott has a cracking record in this race too.

Theatre Man ran some fine races in defeat last season and was sent off favourite for the Festival Plate only to fall at the third fence. There’s plenty of talent there if trainer Richard Bandey can unlock it.

Hyland won on chase debut at Southwell but blotted his copybook a little when well beaten at Uttoxeter last time. He liked this trip over hurdles but needs to improve.

Moon D’Orange was a promising third on chase debut at Punchestown just ten days ago. That was over two miles but he was placed in a Grade 2 hurdle here over three miles and this trip should be more to his liking.
Bowtogreatness was hammered in the Kim Muir and lacks pace even for this distance.

Transmission should make a nice chaser but may need this experience after a long time over hurdles.

DONCASTER

1.30

DIEGO VENTURA won two maidens before improving to go close in a Group 3 contest at Newmarket last time. He relished the testing ground there and his stamina will be an asset in these conditions.

Bounty looks the obvious threat after an emphatic maiden win at Naas earlier this month. He won’t mind the ground and has more to come for Aidan O’Brien.

Arctic Voyage loved the mud when scooting in by six lengths at Nottingham 17 days ago. This son of Kingman takes a sharp hike in class here but is bred to hold his own for in-form trainer Ralph Beckett.

Fast Track Harry beat 12 rivals on his Newbury debut and the second has franked for the form since. He tanked along and is no forlorn hope with William Buick on board.

La Bellota was fourth in this grade over 5f last time but this trip suits better. Oisin Murphy gets on board today.

2.05

ABERAMA GOLD landed his last win in this race 12 months ago and is back from 11lb lower in the handicap.

He likes testing ground and went close behind Vintage Clarets at Catterick last time despite not getting the run of the race.

He’ll go close again with Vintage Clarets also in the mix despite a 4lb rise for his last success.

Blue Storm battled to score at Haydock last time in bottomless going. He has more improvement to come and is dangerous despite shouldering top weight.

Venture Capital is having a good season and was in winning form over course and distance last month. He went close off this mark at Ascot latest and looks solid each-way.

Jer Batt didn’t get much luck in running at York two Saturdays ago. He will enjoy dropping back to the minimum distance with soft ground also in his favour.

He’s had a little nudge down the weights and is another to consider.

Cover Up is coming down the handicap and likes this trip. He looks a big price for the Gosdens.

Solar Aclaim has shown his best in the mud but may lack a bit of pace for this trip.

2.40

IT’S game, set and match for WIMBLEDON HAWKEYE who was highly impressive when winning the Group 2 Royal Lodge at Newmarket last time.

He powered home over the mile in tacky ground, clocking a good time in the process. His sire Kameko won this race five years ago and he can follow in his hoofprints.

Royal Playwright chased him home at HQ and his stamina will be an asset in these testing conditions.

Delacroix looked a real battler when taking the Group 3 Autumn Stakes at Newmarket two Saturdays ago. He saw out the mile well there and trainer Aidan O’Brien is a regular winner of this race.

Anno Domini looked a nice type when scoring at Sandown back in July.

It’s a concern that he hasn’t been out since then but he should appreciate this extra furlong and has more to offer for last year’s winner Charlie Appleby.

Hotazhell took a Curragh Group 2 last month but faces much softer ground here.

Templegate’s tips

FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.


Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

Read More »

I won £200K People’s Postcode Lottery… first act after finding out was banging on neighbour’s door – it was bad news

A GRANDAD who won £200,000 in the People’s Postcode Lottery has described how he immediately went next door – only to be met with bad news.

George Mounsey, who lives in Breaston, Derbyshire, heard the news of his enormous this week.

a group of people holding up a sign that says millionaire street
Postcode Lottery
Paul Rowland, George Mounsey, and Alison Browne all took home a portion of the jackpot[/caption]
a man and woman are laughing and looking at each other
Postcode Lottery
George Mounsey and Margaret Blurton met as teenagers[/caption]

His first instinct was to immediately pay next-door neighbours Paul Rowland, on one side, and Alison Browne, on the other, a visit.

It was there that he learned the disappointing news that his lottery winnings weren’t what they originally seemed.

Although the Postcode Lottery jackpot was worth £1 million, rules dictate that the sum is split between all players within that postcode.

So when George heard that Paul and Alison had also entered, as well as two other neighbours elsewhere on the street, he was forced to watch his life-changing £1 million prize plummeting to just £200,000.

George, who is married to his childhood sweetheart Margaret, said: “We didn’t know they were in it until we went round and banged on the door and asked, ‘Are you in the Postcode Lottery? Have you had a phone call?'”

Turning his thoughts to how he would spend the reduced winnings, he said: “Margaret would like a static caravan in Yorkshire somewhere. We’ll see, we may invest.”

As for this year’s Christmas, he added: “We might even get a bigger turkey!”

George and Margaret met as teenagers but rekindled their romance decades later.

 George said: “We’ve known each other since we were teenagers. When I was 15 and she was 16, we went out together for a year.

“We later got married to other people and were both widowed.

“Fifty years later we met up again in Asda and we’ve not been apart since. That’s 16 years ago now.”

Margaret tragically lost both a son and a daughter to cancer but has four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Meanwhile, Paul and Alison were delighted to have unexpectedly bagged a slice of the winnings.

Paul said: “There’s a lovely community spirit and it’s lovely to have three winners in a row.

“I was going to take my wife for a weekend away. Now it’ll be a fortnight away. What are the chances of this happening here?”

Alison added: “I don’t know what to think. This is life-changing, it really is.”

How to play the People's Postcode Lottery?

FOR just £12 a month, players can sign up through the official website to have a chance of winning millions of pounds.

Once signed up, players are automatically entered into every draw and prizes are announced every day of each month.

Tickets play for the Daily Prize, worth £1000 and revealed every single day.

Tickets could also win a jackpot of £30,000 for Saturday and Sunday’s Street Prize draws.

People’s Postcode Lottery also offers a £3million Postcode Millions draw each month – where your ticket plays for a share of the cash prize fund.

Winners are notified by email, text, post, or phone call, depending on the prize they win.

Jackpot winners are visited by the lottery team in person.

Read More »

Horoscope today, October 26, 2024: Daily star sign guide from Mystic Meg

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died last year but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégée Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today. 

♈ ARIES

March 21 to April 20

The certainty you have to say what you need to say is impressive today.

You may not realise how strong you are but others will sense it and respect it.

An object or name you may have doubted you would ever see again is heading back towards you and this time you won’t let go.

Love is “V” led.

a poster for mystic meg with maggie innes saturday
Your weekly horoscope for Saturday

♉ TAURUS

April 21 to May 21

A creative moon and the sun’s skills to see who is on the same wave length as you are the top bond-building elements in your chart today.

Try to give everyone an equal chance however far apart in age or attitude they seem.

You could be a dream team.

Passion-wise, touch is the important sense.

Get all the latest Taurus horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♊ GEMINI

May 22 to June 21

Your moon-given gift is the ability to feel at home wherever you are.

You also manage to see the positive in situations and people so you lead so naturally and well.

But it is your personal determination to find a way through a set of health obstacles that really stands out.

Luck writes in turquoise blue.

Get all the latest Gemini horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♋ CANCER

June 22 to July 22

After a challenging time, your mental abilities are sharp and ideas you may have thrown aside can come back bigger, stronger and better thanks to the sun.

In love, it’s how you deal with difficult issues firmly within a framework of loyalty that gets results.

Single? Catch up with a fast-walking Leo.

Get all the latest Cancer horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♌ LEO

July 23 to August 23

Sticking to a limited view on how you can fund changes particularly linked to study or retraining may be holding you back.

Set your imagination free to see what ideas develop.

A longer timescale or a smaller goals could both work out.

In passion terms, sharp focus pays off as you ask one specific question.

Get all the latest Leo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♍ VIRGO

August 24 to September 22

Your chart layers thought-fulness into your usual logical thinking so you read others expertly, and sense what to say and do next.

Trust your voice even if others try to tell you different.

It may be tempting to play along with a passion pretence but authentic feelings are what you need.

Get all the latest Virgo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

a purple circle with the zodiac signs in it
Getty
Passion-wise, touch is the important sense[/caption]

♎ LIBRA

September 23 to October 23

Partners may have very different ideas about where passion can go but this can create shared excitement so be prepared to give everything a try.

This means discussing every option.

If you’re single, a charity or vintage sale can be your love location.

Luck presses a “Down” command.

Get all the latest Libra horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

List of 12 star signs

♏ SCORPIO

October 24 to November 22

Even at the weekend, your chart is part personal, part professional.

This asks you to be upfront about bonds, business and social elements.

It’s tough to be absolutely honest but necessary.

In love, yes, the passion potential you feel with “D” is real but is it enough?

Luck opens a fluorescent envelope.

Get all the latest Scorpio horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♐ SAGITTARIUS

November 23 to December 21

Allow time when scrolling through names or numbers as your senses will select the perfect partners or opponents for the future you want. Even if you have tried and failed you can still make an ambitious change work. Pictures of dancers or some favourite music can be your pointers to lasting luck.

Get all the latest Sagittarius horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♑ CAPRICORN

December 22 to January 20

Close connections may find it difficult to see you changing but it doesn’t mean they can’t, or won’t, change too.

The sun helps you offer them time to make key decisions.

If you have a career dream you’ve been keeping private, this is your day to go public.

Be open to feedback from names you respect.

Get all the latest Capricorn horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

a zodiac circle with the signs of the zodiac on it
Supplied
Luck opens a fluorescent envelope[/caption]

♒ AQUARIUS

January 21 to February 18

You can turn a life goal around and get it into a manageable form.

The way you reassure everyone and leave them feeling supported sets you apart.

Your passionate self is brimful of daring deeds and dates – by tonight you can make or receive a cheeky proposal.

“F” countries are lucky.

Get all the latest Aquarius horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♓ PISCES

February 19 to March 20

Your chart of meaningful collaboration suggests a place in a local team that does good things but this is a role you will create for yourself.

Try not to be discouraged by any over-rigid rules.

Your passion profile is warm and understanding – loyalty may not always be obvious but it is there.

Get all the latest Pisces horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

Read More »