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IN 2023, Sun Bingo invited 40 guests and their plus ones to a showstopping weekend in Blackpool.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic, Sun Bingo wasn’t able to host an in-person event from 2020-2022.

So, we were extremely excited to announce the All Star Weekend in 2023.

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The only way to bag tickets for the hottest weekend of 2023 was by winning one of our competitions.

Once we had 40 lucky winners, they and their plus ones headed over to beautiful Blackpool and checked into the All Star Hotel.

Joining our All Star guests were Sun Bingo chat hosts and staff who were eager to meet the players.

All of the good times were kept running smoothly by our fantastic presenters and hosts.

TOP TIPS FOR PICKING A BINGO ROOM

They included former Gogglebox star and Celebrity Big Brother contestant Sandi Bogle, presenters Janine Marsh and Lorna Lewis, and Sun Bingo’s Chris Ashton.

We promised a weekend of fun, celebrities, good times and bingo… did we deliver?

All Star Hotel 2023

After dinner, our All Star guests settled in for a night of star-studded entertainment.

HOW TO PLAY POWER OF GODS: VALHALLA

Opening the weekend with a bang was Sean Heydon.

Sean is a multi-award winning entertainer who wowed the Britain’s Got Talent judges and audience in 2020 with his stunning card tricks.

From amazing cards to chords, the next performer was another Britain’s Got Talent performer.

Tom Ball left the Britain’s Got Talent and America’s Got Talent All Stars judges stunned with his powerful voice.

MEET OUR 10/10 CHAT HOST PAMELA

As the night went on, it was time to get the crowd up and dancing, and that’s exactly what vocal harmony group The Overtones did.

There was plenty of swooning for the group’s suave and charismatic performance.

Bringing the entertainment to a grand finale was Celebrity X-Factor contestant and former Coronation Street star Victoria Ekanoye.

Her beautiful voice and funky tunes got the party started on a Friday night.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BINGO BONUSES

Saturday promised a full day of fun. We kicked things off with a game or two of B-I-N-G-O.

Next on the agenda, our audience with soap stars Sherrie Hewson, Adele Silva and Ashley Taylor Dawson was a fantastic chance for the All Star crew to get to know the backstage secrets of their favourite soaps.

The panel were full of brilliant stories, including an unfortunate bathroom accident while performing on stage.

HAVE YOU DISCOVERED OUR FLUFFY FAVOURITES BINGO ROOM?

After sitting down and listening, it was time to get up and start moving with a Strictly Master Class.

This was an incredible opportunity for our All Star crew to learn how to move like a real Strictly star.

Our guests picked up the moves in no time thanks to the excellent teachings of World Champion dancer Vincent Simone.

Vincent kept his hips shaking into the evening, performing an incredibly routine with fellow professionals Paula Duarte Tango and Victoria Martin.

HOW TO GET FREE BINGO AT SUN BINGO

Other highlights from the Saturday night included performances from X-Factor contestants Jaymi Hensley and Amelia Lily.

Jaymi, a member of the popular boyband Union J, gave a stunning performance, opening the Saturday evening entertainment with his lovely vocals.

Bursting onto the stage with her usual Geordie energy, Amelia Lily got everyone in a Saturday Night fever.

Bringing the evening’s entertainment to an epic conclusion was the iconic Janice Robinson, and what a way it was to end an incredible weekend.

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE ANIMALS IN OUR SPIRIT TWISTER ROOM

We started with a bang and certainly ended on a high note as well. Janice was a fantastic performer.

A crowd favourite was definitely her rendition of Dreamer.

Check out the highlights of the All Star Hotel Easter 2023 weekend here.

Join us at the All Star Hotel 2024

Have FOMO after reading about our amazing All Star Hotel event?

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Then make sure to be there when we re-open doors for check in this year.

There are a few ways to win your way there for you and your plus one.

Free and Deluxe Wheels

We have two wheel games for the All Star Hotel.

The first of our wheels is the Free Wheel. This is open from midday to midnight daily, Monday 7^th October to Sunday 10^th November.  

ENJOY A GAME OF PLAY ALONG EMMERDALE BINGO

Any sunbingo.co.uk registered player is eligible for one daily spin, provided that they have either joined the site in the past 30 days or are an existing player that has deposited and staked £10 on Sun Bingo in the past 30 days.

There is a maximum of one game per eligible player per day.

To play, simply pick the window where you think a prize is waiting. If you are correct, make sure to press “Claim” in order to get your prize.

Every player who spins the Free Wheel will also earn one ticket to the All Star Hotel Ultimate Bingo Game for the chance to win tickets to the All Star Hotel.

HOW BINGO IS PLAYED AROUND THE WORLD

The Deluxe Wheel is available to any Sun Bingo player the day after they have deposited and spent £10 on site. It replaces their access to the Free Wheel for that day.

All of the same prizes are available but each pick will earn the player TWO tickets to the All Star Hotel Ultimate Bingo Game.

All Star Bingo Games

You can secure your place at the All Star Hotel, and that of your plus one, by winning the full house prize in our daily All Star Hotel bingo games.

Tickets for the games can be purchased for 20p each. Players are allowed a maximum of 60 tickets per game.

WE HAVE LOTS OF MONOPOLY GAMES FOR YOU TO ENJOY

Our 1L winner will receive £5, and our 2L winner will get £10.

Meanwhile, the full house winner will get two tickets to the All Star Hotel!

All Star Bingo Sessions

Each week that you want to play in the All Star Hotel bingo session, you’ll need to opt in and then stake £15 cash on bingo.

I PLAYED WITH £10 ON SUN BINGO – HERE’S WHAT HAPPENED NEXT

Make sure to also enter the specific qualifying code for that week. Check out the codes that you’ll need below.

• From Monday 14^th October to Sunday 20^th October – ALLSTAR2
• From Monday 21^st October to Sunday 27^th October – ALLSTAR3
• From Monday 28^th October to Sunday 3^rd November – ALLSTAR4
• From Monday 4^th November to Sunday10th November – ALLSTAR5

Once you qualify, you’ll be able to play in the next All Stat Hotel session.

During the weekly sessions, there will be 10 bingo games. The 1L prize is £10 cash. The 2L prize is £15 cash.

WE’VE GOT FIVE SLOT RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOU

The full house prize is £25 cash. However, for the last three games of the session, the full house prize is UPGRADED to two tickets for the All Star Hotel!

All Star Hotel Ultimate Bingo Games

Each week during the promotional period, players who have qualified for the All Star Ultimate Bingo Game or those that have bought tickets for the game (players can buy up to 60 tickets for 20p each), will have the chance to win their way to our All Star Hotel.

CHECK OUT THE SENSATIONAL SLOT GAMES AT SUN BINGO

All of the game prizes are tickets for you and your plus one to attend the All Star Hotel.

That means our 1L, 2L and full house winners will be strutting their stuff at our all-singing, all-dancing, all-out-amazing weekend.

Please be aware that no cash alternative will be offered for the ticket prizes.

All Star Hotel 2024 Key Information

For those of our players lucky enough to win tickets for themselves and their plus ones, here’s some information about our epic weekend that you’ll need to know:

• Tickets to the All Star Hotel are for the winner plus a guest of their choice.   
• Guests must be 18+ years old. ID maybe requested for any guest who looks under 25 years old.  
• The venue is a 3* hotel.
• We will try our best to suit your needs (i.e. double, twin or accessible) when it comes to room allocation but we cannot guarantee as it is subject to availability.   
• All meals will be provided (dietary requirements upon request from the hotel).   
• A drinks package will be provided but premium and other drinks at the bar are subject to cost to the customers.  
• People who abuse alcohol will be refused drinks and could possibly be removed from hotel.  
• The event will be documented by a camera crew for social media.   
• Check in will be from 3:30pm on Friday 22nd November and check out by 12pm on Sunday 24th November.   
• There will be photo opportunities with celebrities. However, they are not guaranteed.  
• Events at the hotel will run from 9pm to midnight on Friday and from 2pm to midnight on Saturday. No events will be held on Sunday.   
• There is a maximum of one set of tickets per player. No cash alternative will be offered. Players who win a place at the All Star Hotel can attend the hotel or they can be re-allocated to another via a sunbingo.co.uk prize draw.   
• Tickets for All Star Hotel cannot be sold or gifted and must be attended only by the winner and their guest.  
• Players who enter any competition featuring All Star Hotel tickets after already winning tickets and/or with the intention of not attending the event will not be reimbursed for any of the bets staked in order to enter any of the competitions or bingo games.  
• Players who have been banned from chat rooms and/or our social media channels will not be permitted to attend events held by sunbingo.co.uk. 

If your account has been closed at the time of the event, we reserve the right to revoke the invitation.

Such closure reasons may include but are not limited to the following, Verification Checks, Source of Funds requests, loss limit checks and any responsible gambling closure.

WHAT WILL YOU WIN WITH YOUR £60 BINGO BUNDLE WELCOME OFFER?

*New customers only. Register, deposit £10 and spend £10 on bingo tickets to receive £40 bingo bonus (accept within 72 hours and wager 4x within seven days) and £20 side games bonus (accept within 72 hours and wager 20x within 30 days) on Rainbow Riches in the bingo lobby. Both bonuses must be accepted in the bingo lobby. Only completed games are credited. Debit cards only. Deposits made with Neteller/Skrill/PayPal are not valid for this promotion. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply.

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 

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. 

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

ABBOTT LYON Black Friday sale is the perfect time for jewellery enthusiasts to find some hidden gems for less.

Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale is a highly anticipated event in my diary, as it means I can expand my jewellery collection with waterproof and tarnish-free accessories for less – and treat someone special to something sparkly for Christmas.

abbott lyon

Abbott Lyon Black Friday sale

Abbott Lyon is known for its stylish, customisable, tarnish-free yet affordable jewellery, which will be even more purse friendly in the Black Friday sale.

Come Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Abbott Lyon is a great choice for anyone wanting to stock up on gems ahead of the holiday season, but at a fraction of the usual cost.

The brand has a legion of celebrity collaborators, which includes Stacey Solomon, Olivia Attwood, and Love Island alumni, Molly Smith.

Abbott Lyon is also set to collaborate with Love Island 2024 winner Mimii Ngulube, but will these collection be included in the Cyber Weekend sale?

Black Friday is set to fall on 29th December, and I anticipate huge savings in store across the annual sale event if Abbott Lyon take part.

Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale could see you snap up designer lookalikes, such as this Cartier ring lookalike, durable stacking rings, personalised jewellery, and much more for less.

Here is everything I know about Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale so far; from when is Black Friday, and when is Cyber Monday, to the best Black Friday deals to shop, including Abbott Lyon.

Shop Abbott Lyon

Best live Abbott Lyon deals

As I wait for Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday deals to drop, Abbott Lyon shoppers can secure 15% off their order using the discount code “TAKE15”.

Plus, if you spend over £79, you are eligible for a free bracelet worth £49.

• Signature Name Necklace, £75.65 (was £89) – buy here
• Black Enamel Gold Clover bracelet, £52.78 (was £69) – buy here
• Two Tone Stamped Fidget Ring, £63.75 (was £75) – buy here
• Essence Two Tone 23 Watch, £126.66 (was £149) – buy here
• Sterling Silver Crystal Earrings, £41.66 (was £49) – buy here

When is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday 2024 falls on November 29 this year.

Whilst the date of the biggest annual shopping event changes from year to year, it’s always the Friday after Thanksgiving in the US.

Traditionally Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday in November, which means Black Friday is typically the fourth Friday in November.

However, this year the calendar falls a little differently, which means Black Friday falls on the fifth Friday in November.

The global event marks the first day of the Cyber Weekend, during this time retailers and brands from across the world will offer customers their own promotions and deals.

Usually, the Cyber Weekend ends on Cyber Monday, which gives shoppers a whole weekend to shop amazing deals.

But in recent times, many brands have chosen to extend their cyber deals well into December and just before the Christmas period.

However, there is more meaning to Black Friday than big discounts and flash sale offers.

Is Abbott Lyon taking part in Black Friday this year?

Abbott Lyon has yet to confirm if it definitely is taking part in this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale.

However, I assume that Abbott Lyon will take part in Black Friday this year because the jewellery brand has done so in the past few years.

Last year, Abbott Lyon launched huge savings on some of its best-selling pieces, and a number of personalised jewellery options across its extensive rings, necklaces and bracelet collections.

Abbott Lyon in the past has also offered free personalisation on selected products, so keep an eye out for any further deals that launch between now and 29 November.

I will, of course, keep you updated as soon as I know exactly what date Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale will launch, and what will be discounted.

Shop Abbott Lyon

Will the Abbott Lyon advent calendar go on sale this Black Friday?

abbott lyon

It’s too early to tell whether Abbott Lyon’s Advent calendars will be going on sale this year because Advent calendars are hot property and often sell out before Black Friday comes around.

This year, there are four calendars on sale: Made More You (Gold), Made More You (Silver), and two Stacey Solomon x Abbott Lyon calendars, which are also available in silver and gold metals.

The Made More You Advents are available to shop on the website now.

Sadly, last year none of the Abbott Lyon Advent calendars were included in the Black Friday discounts, the website also states the calendars are not included in other promotional discounts as there is already a huge saving to be had on the festive countdowns.

The site reads: “Advent calendars are excluded from all other promotions.”

However, will this change come Black Friday? Only time will tell.

What to expect from Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale 2024

Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday sale promises incredible deals on the brand’s elegant and customisable accessories.

I expect to see generous discounts on a variety of products, including the popular personalised jewellery range, as well as watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings.

It’s the perfect chance to invest in timeless pieces that instantly add a touch of sophistication to any look.

The Abbott Lyon Black Friday sale means you can invest in layering items that will swiftly become your everyday staples too.

Alternatively, you can use this sale event to shop Christmas gifts for your loved ones.

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or searching for thoughtful gifts, this sale will offer something special for everyone.

With exclusive offers and significant markdowns, Abbott Lyon’s Black Friday event is set to be an unmissable shopping event for those looking to elevate their accessory game this year.

What was in Abbott Lyon’s sale last year?

Last year there was a variety of items up for grabs at a reduced price, with some pieces slashed by more than £150, here are some of my highlights from last year’s sale:

• Clover Custom Name Necklace (Gold), 45 (was £75) – shop here
• Signature Name Necklace (Silver), £47.40 (was £79) – shop here
• Clover Custom Name Bracelet (Gold), £41.40 (was £69) – shop here
• Personalised Initial & Birthstone Necklace (Gold), £53.40 (was £89) – shop here
• Tennis Bracelet (Gold), £33 (was £55) – shop here
• Advent Calendar (Gold), now £250 (was £450) – shop here

When is Cyber Monday 2024 and is Abbott Lyon taking part?

Cyber Monday falls on December 2 this year, which is a little later than previous years but only because of how the calendar falls this year.

Traditionally, Cyber Monday was seen as the last day of the big sales, but in recent years, many brands and retailers have extended the good offers well into December.

Not only does this give you more time to scope a great offer, but it also allows you to pick up any last-minute gifts ahead of the Christmas period.

It is unknown whether Abbott Lyon will end its Black Friday deals on Cyber Monday, or keep the discounts running a little longer.

Be sure to keep an eye on this page as I’ll be updating it with all of the latest Abbott Lyon sale news as soon as it comes in.

How much does Abbott Lyon’s delivery cost?

For standard delivery to the UK, it is £1.99 and free for orders over £60. Next-day delivery starts from £3.99 and Saturday delivery is £9.99.

Based in the US? Abbott Lyon offers express delivery for $9.99, standard delivery for $2.99 or free for orders over $70!

And if you need your delivery sent to somewhere else in the world, they also deliver to Switzerland, Germany, Europe, Canada, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and New Zealand.

It’s best to check the official website before making your purchase, you can find all delivery pricing information here.

Does Abbott Lyon offer any other discounts?

The short answer is yes. There are usually discounts on Abbott Lyon’s site all year round which frequently change.

These include end-of-season sales and clearance events, so make sure you check their site.

New customers can save 20% on their first order currently, by signing up to the brand’s newsletter.

If you recommend Abbott Lyon to a friend, they will get 30% off their first order and to say thanks, you will also get 30% off your order!

They also offer a 25% off discount to students and NHS workers periodically, check out their website to find out what discounts you could be entitled to.

Plus, Abbott Lyon is currently offering 15% off your total order in the run up to Black Friday using the discount code “TAKE15”.

Sun Vouchers is your one-stop shop for every deal and discount code currently available from your favourite online retailers. Don’t click ‘buy’ until you’ve checked Sun Vouchers for a discount code to apply to your basket.

PRINCE Harry has been filmed showing off his surfing skills with a master coach.

The Duke of Sussex was captured chasing waves at an exclusive ranch in California.

@toddglaser |

@toddglaser |

AP

He navigated the waters at surfing legend Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Leemore, over 100 miles from the ocean.

The video was posted to Tahiti-based pro surfer Raimana Van Bastolaer’s Instragram account.

Harry is seen in the clip taming the wave, with the caption reading: “In Tahiti, we still call you Prince Harry.

“But at Surf Ranch, it’s my brother. It was an honour to have you surf with me and Kelly Slater.”

Fans said in response he is living his “California dream life” and implied such passions will mean he’ll never come back to the UK.

The Duke, 40, begins by riding on the board alongside Van Bastolaer’s jet ski, then he pulls away and leaps up onto his feet as the wave builds.

The pro gives Harry instructions as he finds his balance and rides the man made 6ft barrelling wave for almost one minute.

It is the central feature of Slater’s ranch, and lasts for 2,300 feet.

It is the only such artificial wave to receive World Surf League accreditation.

Harry relocated to California in 2020 with wife Meghan Markle.

She is understood to have bought him surf lessons for his 36th birthday.

The Duke has also been seen since cycling along Malibu’s famous Surfrider Beach.

Fans have become “obsessed” with Harry’s new surfing skills.

On the social media platform X, @PhlyGerl simply wrote: “Prince Harry in America living his California dream life.”

Another said: “Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex surfing and thriving in California.”

A third said: “Is there anything this man can’t do? #PrinceHarry is a true Californian now and this is supposed to be the man who’s plotting to come back to the UK?”

One fan exclaimed: “Meghan’s man, aka Prince Harry, is full of surprises! He’s an honorary Californian now.”

Another royal fan was in shock at the sight of the Prince on the California waves.

They said: “I can’t believe I wake up to this…Prince Harry surfing. Man, I mean wow.”

He appears to have become close friends with Slater and Van Bastolaer during his time in the US.

Although, oddly Slater slammed the Sussexes after their controversial tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021 in a social media post.

@toddglaser |

@toddglaser |

@toddglaser |

Getty

HEALTH bosses have issued an urgent warning to the “missing million” at risk hospitalisation and death as three dangerous infections surge.

The arrival of winter will see a number of nasty infections rear their heads, but Brits are being urged to protect themselves against the “big three” – flu, RSV and Covid-19.

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Alamy

These infections land “many thousands in hospital and tragically kill far too many every year”, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

“Colliding” surges of Covid, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pose the threat of a winter “tripledemic”, the NHS warned last month.

Getting vaccinated ahead of winter is by far the best way to protect yourself against the dangerous bugs and millions are eligible to get their jabs for free.

But every year, vulnerable Brits who don’t take up their jabs or those who aren’t even aware they’re at higher risk of severe illness miss out on the vital protection of vaccines – making them the “missing million”.

Julie Yates, UKHSA’s national immunisation lead, said: “Every year many of those at greater risk of getting seriously ill from winter infections are not getting their vaccines, with many thousands ending up in hospital and far too many tragically dying.

“Some of these ‘missing million’ may not realise they are more vulnerable, but if you are invited for a flu, RSV or COVID-19 jab then it is because you, or your newborn baby if you’re pregnant, are at greater risk.”

As part of its Get Winter Strong Campaign, UKHSA is calling on vulnerable and eligible Brits to get jabbed.

This includes pregnant women, who are being urged to take up their RSV and whooping cough vaccines to protect their vulnerable babies.

Respiratory infections like Covid, flu, RSV and whooping cough will strike many this winter as people spend more time indoors.

But some people are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from catching these common bugs.

They include:

• Older people
• Pregnant women and their babies
• People of any age with a weakened immune system
• People of any age with certain long-term conditions

Some children aged under two years, especially those with a heart condition or born prematurely and very young infants, are also at increased risk of hospitalisation from flu and RSV.

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Julie said: “Those with certain long term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants, and older people will be among those eligible for some, or all, of these life-saving vaccines.

“So if you are invited don’t delay – book an appointment and get the vaccines.

“And if you’re unsure if you’re eligible or have any concerns please do speak with your GP surgery or local pharmacist.”

It comes after it was announced that NHS staff have delivered more than 10 million Covid and flu vaccinations – 10,709,958 to be exact – as the NHS ramps up its efforts to avoid a tripledemic this winter.

The NHS has invited over 11 million people in England to come forward for the jabs.

NHS national director for vaccinations and screening Steve Russell, said: “Today’s figures are a testament to the hard work of NHS staff in successfully rolling out winter vaccinations across the country in a bid to protect those who are most vulnerable as we move towards the colder months.

He added: “We are seeing a rise of flu and Covid cases and hospitalisations, on top of a seasonal rise in RSV, which are adding to the growing risk of a tripledemic this winter as pressures on NHS services are increased.”

Uber-common RSV

RSV is a super common group of viruses that spread through coughs and sneezes and typically surge between November and February.

It’ll infect a whopping 90 per cent of children before they reach the age of two.

Most people get mild symptoms. but the bug cause bronchiolitis in infants. This is a chest infection that can turn serious, making it difficult for babies to breathe and feed.

RSV is responsible for approximately 20,000 hospitalisations of children aged under one every year and it’s a leading cause of infant mortality across the world – resulting in 20 to 30 deaths per year in the UK.

The super common virus can also be dangerous to older adults as well as babies, causing pneumonia, flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions.

It’s responsible for around 9,000 hospitalisations in people aged 75 and over in the UK each year.

The NHS this year rolled out a new vaccine to protect vulnerable people against RSV.

It’s being offered to all adults turning 75 on or after September 1 2024 and there is a one-off catch-up programme this year for all those already aged 75-79.

Pregnant women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant can also get the lifesaving jab.

Mums getting the RSV can reduce their baby’s risk of severe bronchiolitis by 70 per cent in their first six months of life.

Killer flu

Flu seems to be part and parcel with the winter months but UKHSA warned that the infection can still prove deadly to some.

It is far worse than an ordinary cold, causing a rapid onset fever, body aches, exhaustion, stomach pain and nausea, as well as coughing and a sore throat.

Flu can lead to serious illness, especially in children, with over 10,000 hospitalisations last winter, the health watchdog noted.

Older people, those with a weakened immune system and people with long-term health conditions are also at higher risk.

Over the past two winters at least 18,000 deaths were associated with flu.

And last winter saw a surge in infections that peaked in the week leading up to Christmas and the end of January.

Getting vaccinated against the flu can slash your risk of getting severely ill and also protect vulnerable people around you.

UKHSA said: “For those who took up the offer, last year’s flu vaccine had a significant impact on reducing severe illness, with a 30 per cent reduction in the number of those aged 65 and over being hospitalised and a 74 per cent reduction in those between two and 17 years of age.”

It’s best to get your jab ahead of peak flu season this winter.

Everyone aged 65 years and over is eligible for a free flu vaccine, as are babies, children and adults aged between six months and 65 with certain medical conditions.

All pregnant women can also get the vaccine to protect babies during pregnancy and when they’re born.

Finally, two and three-year olds and all school children (from reception to year 11) will be offered a nasal spray vaccine at school.

Contagious Covid strain

As for Covid, the virus that upended all of our lives almost five years ago is here to stay even if it isn’t as severe as it was at the start of the pandemic.

“The virus is still causing severe illness, hospitalisations, and deaths – particularly among those with a weakened immune system and long-term health conditions, as well as older people,” UKHSA said.

It comes as worrying new strain dubbed XEC is spreading “rapidly” across the globe.

XEC was first detected in Germany in June and has since been found in at least 29 countries across Europe, North America and Asia.

Scientists don’t believe the variant is more deadly than some of its predecessors, but they say it is transmitted more easily.

UKHSA stressed that it’s normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time.

Symptoms of Covid XEC

By Isabel Shaw, Health Reporter

We don’t know what the specific XEC symptoms are just yet.

So far, the signs aren’t too dissimilar from what we’ve seen with earlier strains.

This includes tiredness, headaches, a sore throat, a high fever and a dry cough.

The loss of taste and smell – once a hallmark sign of the bug – is only reported by two to three per cent of infected Brits, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

If you are suffering from Covid, prioritise rest and hydration while using over-the-counter medications like paracetamol to relieve symptoms.

The best way to protect yourself from Covid is to get vaccinated.

Jabs have been updated to tackle recent variants, though not specifically for XEC, which evolved from earlier Omicron strains.

The NHS is offering autumn Covid boosters to the most vulnerable in October. This includes:

• Over-64s
• People aged between six months and 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable
• People living in care homes for older people
• Front-line health and social care staff, including in care homes for older people

The NHS will contact eligible patients directly, but they can also book their own appointments now via the NHS App, GPs, pharmacies, drop-in clinics, or by calling 119.

“The new Covid-19 variants, much like previous variants, can spread easily through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks.”

Covid symptoms have also changes throughout the years.

“Today many people now experience cold-like symptoms but some will also experience fever or chills, continuous cough, shortness of breath, tiredness, body aches, headache, sore throat, blocked nose, loss of appetite, nausea, or diarrhoea,” UKHSA added.

The virus can still prove dangerous or life threatening to some, so vulnerable groups are being offered a Covid booster to keep themselves safe.

You may be offered a Covid-19 jab if you:

• Are aged 65 or over
• Are pregnant
• Are aged six months to 64 years and have an increased risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 because of a health condition or treatment
• Live in a care home for older adults

In many cases, you’ll be able to get your Covid and flu jabs at the same time.

ONE of Europe’s most popular attractions has revealed plans to double entry fees for tourists.

Barcelona’s Park Güell welcomes millions of tourists a year.

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AFP

However, the attraction could soon cost a lot more, with the local government revealing a hike in fees for holidaymakers.

Designed by Antoni Gaudi, Park Güell was free to visit until 2013.

Currently, entrance fee costs between €10 (£8.36) and €14 (£11.70), with the latter including access to the museum as well as the park.

However BComú has revealed plans to increase this to €20 (16.72), local media reports.

This means it would be a similar price to other attractions in the city such as the Sagrada Familia (€26/£21.74) and Casa Batllo (€29/£24.24).

But this also means tourists would be forced to shell out nearly €80 (£66.88) to see the major attractions.

However, Catalonia’s tourism head Cristina Lagé explained the new fees are part of a wider increase in tourist taxes being introduced to reduce the pressure on locals.

She said in a local interview this would help services function properly.

Park Güell’s other new rules introduced include tickets only being available to buy online, which was introduced in July.

This is in place to reduce the crowds at the entrance of the park.

The city council said it will also “encourage scheduled visits, generate staggered and fluid access to the park and avoid unnecessary travel and dissatisfaction when tickets are unavailable”.

Park Güell once welcomed as many as nine million tourists a year, although last year reported around 4.4million.

It’s not the only tourist attraction looking at hiking fees for holidaymakers.

Turkey’s Hagia Sophia is now charging tourists  €25 (£22) to visit with access to the mosaics and gallery floor.

Portugal has ditched entry fees to 38 of their attractions – although tourists still have to pay.

And we’ve rounded up the attractions that are free to visit across England.

AMERICA launched a devastating B-2 Stealth Bomber attack on Houthi rebels on Thursday in a pointed warning to their backers in Iran.

The “invisible” radar-dodging warplanes targeted underground military bases used to launch attacks on Israel and Red Sea shipping.

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AP

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And the strike was yesterday being seen as a prelude to a coming blitz of Iran to warn the Islamist state that none of its bunkers are safe.

It is the first time long-range B-2 Spirit jets have been used against Houthi terrorists, who are armed and funded by Iran’s rogue regime.

US ally Israel has similar bunker-busting power and is expected to launch strikes on Iranian military targets without US help within days.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed B-2s targeted “five hardened underground weapons storage locations in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.”

Austin added: “This was a unique demonstration of the United States’ ability to target facilities that our adversaries seek to keep out of reach, no matter how deeply buried underground, hardened, or fortified.”

The Houthis’ al-Masirah satellite news channel reported explosions around Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, which the group has held since 2014.

They also reported strikes around the Houthi stronghold of Saada but no details on casualties or damage was released.

America has vowed to stay on the sidelines as Israel hit back at Iran for the 180 ballistic missile barrage launched against the Jewish state on October 1.

Israel has been urged not to hit nuclear sites feared to be close to perfecting Irans’ first nuclear weapon.

But B-2 would be used in any American attack on hardened atom plants in Natanz or Fordo if the Middle East crisis escalates.

The warjet is the only aircraft in service which can deliver the world’s most potent bunker blaster – GBU-57, known as the “Massive Ordnance Penetrator.”

US military Central Command offered no immediate assessment of the damage done in the Yemen raid but said initial assessments suggested no civilians had been killed.

Houthis have targeted more than 80 merchant vessels with missiles and drones since the war in Gaza started in October 2023, triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel.

They have seized one vessel and managed to sink two in a vicious campaign that has killed four sailors.

A US-led coalition vying to defend the Red Sea has been intercepting scores of other missiles and drones.

The rebels say that they target ships linked to Israel, the US or the UK.

It comes as a huge blast erupted after a British ship was struck in an attack by Yemen’s Houthi rebels.

Footage shows the Iran-backed militia launching an explosive-laden drone boat into a British oil tanker in the Red Sea.

The Houthi group shared the clip of a big explosion near the side of the Cordelia Moon, which damaged its port side tank and covered it in clouds of smoke.

At the beginning of October, a strike occurred approximately 110 kilometres (70 miles) off the port city of Hodeidah in Yemen, targeting the buoyancy of a Panama-flagged oil tanker.

A captain on a neighbouring ship reported four “splashes” near the vessel, according to the centre monitored by the US Navy, which were most likely missiles launched at the vessel but missed.

The Houthis later claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that eight ballistic and winged missiles, a drone, and an unmanned surface boat were used in the strike.

EPA

EPA

Reuters

About 97 nautical miles northwest of Hodeidah, a missile struck a second ship headed for Suez, a bulker flying the flag of Liberia, causing damage, according to maritime security sources and British security company Ambrey.

The crews of both vessels reported being safe.

The conflict between Israel and Lebanon has the potential to escalate into a larger regional conflict, but these attacks marked the rebels’ first on commercial vessels in weeks.

It also followed the Houthis’ threat of “escalating military operations” against Israel following the apparent downing of an American military drone over Yemen by their forces.

At the end of September, oil tanks in Yemen exploded in a massive fireball as Israel bombed the Houthi rebels in revenge strikes.

Footage showed the gigantic fireball rip shoot into the sky after IDF jets hit the fuel while it was being stored at a port.

It then dissipated into black smoke in the sky but a massive blaze continued to burn at the port and secondary strikes erupted.

Four were reportedly killed and 33 injured, local media said.

Last November, 25 forgotten sailors of the hijacked British-Israeli Galaxy Leader cargo ship were taken captive by the Houthi pirates.

The $50million vessel was hijacked by the Iran-sponsored Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on November 19.

Its entire international crew were taken hostage in what the gunmen clinging to the sides of a helicopter screamed was revenge for Israel’s war in Gaza.

The car carrier was pulled back to Hodeidah in the Houthi-controlled north of Yemen as a trophy to taunt the West and supporters of the militants flocked to the site to share in the spoils of war.

Who are the Houthis?

THE Houthi rebels have spent months terrorising the Red Sea by launching persistent missile and drone attacks on vessels and warships - but who are they?

The Shia militant group who now controls large swaths of Yemen spent over a decade being largely ignored by the world.

However, since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war they sprung from relative obscurity to holding roughly £1trillion of world trade hostage – turning one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes into an active warzone.

Their warped battle cry is “Death to America, Death to Israel, curse the Jews and victory to Islam”.

Why are they attacking ships?

In October, the rebel group began launching relentless drone and missile attacks on any ships – including warships – they deem to be connected with Israel in solidarity with their ally Hamas.

In reality, they targeted commercial vessels with little or no link to Israel – forcing global sea traffic to largely halt operations in the region and sending shipping prices around the world soaring.

The sea assaults added to the carnage in the Middle East tinderbox as intense ripples from Israel’s war in Gaza were felt across the region – with Iran accused of stoking the chaos.

The Houthi chiefs pledged their Red Sea attacks would continue until Israel stopped its offensive in Gaza.

The group’s chiefs have previously said their main targets are Israel, and its allies the US and Britain.

And despite repeated threats from the West and joint US and UK strikes blitzing their strongholds in Yemen – Iran’s terror proxy appears undeterred.

COLE PALMER is averaging fewer touches this season.

But the good news for Chelsea fans is he’s become even more deadly.

Getty

Getty

And that is thanks to Enzo Maresca’s tactical tweak.

Palmer enjoyed a stunning debut season at Stamford Bridge, thriving on a free role on the right under Mauricio Pochettino and was crowned PFA Young Player of the Year.

He racked up a staggering 22 goals and 11 assists in his 33 Premier League appearances and did so with 65 touches per 90 minutes of action.

However, this term under new boss Maresca his stats are even better.

Palmer has already racked up six goals and five assists from 596 minutes spanning seven games – at an average of just 57 touches per 90 minutes.

In fact, Palmer boasts a whopping 44 Premier League goal involvements since the start of last season – two more than Erling Haaland.

The numbers work out as a goal involvement every 54 minutes in 2024-25 compared to every 79 minutes in 2023-24.

Of course, those numbers are boosted by his incredible four-goals-in-20-minutes blitz against Brighton in September.

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And the reason behind the emphatic boost is because Palmer has been moved to playing more centrally as a No10 with Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho the regulars out wide in the current Chelsea starting XI.

That has enabled the England international to roam in the middle of the pitch and still drift wider – rather than trying to come in off the wing and find himself wrestling with team-mates for space.

At times he does drop deep but Palmer prefers to find square pockets between midfielders and defenders to receive the ball and cause damage – either shooting at goal or creating chances for his fellow forwards.

Maresca, who coached Palmer at Manchester City, is relishing working with the star again – and is certainly getting the best out of him.

The Italian explained to the Chelsea website: “He can play in different positions for us because he is so good on the ball.

“He can play wide, in the middle, as a nine.

“We try to use him in one position at the moment in the middle of the pitch.

“But it depends a little bit on the game plan we have and sometimes we move him wide a little bit like he did many times against Brighton.

“We try to give him the opportunity to enjoy his football because, with him, that is the main thing.”

And after struggling to get into the game when played back in his old wide position for England in the Nations League, Palmer, Maresca and Chelsea fans will be desperate to see him back in the No10 when the Blues head to Anfield to take on Liverpool on Sunday.

PA

DERMOT O’Leary shared his heartbreak as he recalls last moment he shared with Liam Payne before the star’s death.

The singer, 31, was in Buenos Aires, Argentina, for pal Niall Horan’s tour when he fell from his third floor hotel room on Wednesday afternoon.

Fans around the world are mourning his loss, including former X Factor presenter Dermot O’Leary, who first met Liam when he auditioned for the ITV show in 2010.

Dermot joined Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley on This Morning on Thursday to speak about the fond memories he shared with Liam.

The emotional TV presenter stated: “No parents should have to bury their child.”

During the chat, Dermot opened up on the last time they saw each other was Soccer Aid in 2022, when Liam captained the English side at the London Stadium in West Ham.

Paying tribute to the former One Direction star, the daytime show opened with Liam’s first X Factor audition – 14 years ago.

Cat said: “We’re starting the show with the very sad news that Liam Payne, the star of One Direction has died at the age of 31.”

Appearing via video link, a clearly heartbroken Dermot said: “Obviously very sad and your heart goes out to his family.

“When you do X Factor you get to know the families so well, in such a short period of time.

“And his mum and dad were just adorable, they were never pushy, this was very much his dream.

“He just loved to sing, he was rough around the edges but for a 14-year-old turning up doing Sinatra, no 14-year-olds turn up doing Sinatra.

“At the time Simon quite rightly made the decision that he wasn’t ready and he came back two years later.

“Simon and Nicole put together One Direction and that’s when he flew really.”

Dermot recalled: “I hadn’t seen him for a while, the last time I saw him was Soccer Aid a couple of years ago and he was brilliant.

“But he was always wise and a young soul at exactly the same time.

“He had this sort of old bones about him like his musical taste but he was also beautifully wide-eyed about the world and his place in it and fame.

Dermot also admitted that the level of fame he experienced over the last decade can he difficult for anyone.

He went on: “It’s such a huge amount of pressure to be put on young shoulders.”

“I just thought he’s none been famous, he’s had worldwide fame for half his life which is an incredible amount of time for that level of pressure.”

The TV presenter admitted his thoughts are with his loved ones at this devastating time.

Dermot continued: “I thought of his family, and his son and his parents, no parents should have to bury their son or their daughter.

“Obviously our thoughts and our prayers go out to them, that goes without saying.”

Dermot, who presented X Factor from 2007 until 2018, said One Direction were the “least manufactured, manufactured boy band” after putting in the hard work to achieve “evolve”.

“Liam was central to that, he always had this unbelievable soulful voice,” he shared.

Liam had arrived in Argentina on September 30 with his most recent girlfriend Kate Cassidy.

He was seen at Niall’s show dancing and meeting fans on October 2.

A source later confirmed to The Sun that Liam had died.

Liam was staying at Hotel CasaSur in the neighbourhood of Palermo, local media report.

Liam’s final post on social media was put up on his Snapchat only minutes before his death and showed him and Kate.

He had posted earlier in the day talking about riding horses, playing polo and looking forward to returning home to see his dog.

“It’s a lovely day here in Argentina.”

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RONNIE O’SULLIVAN’s on-off partner Laila Rouass dazzled in a stunning dress as she attended a gala in London.

Rouass, 53, and O’Sullivan, 48, reportedly called time on their engagement in September after a 12-year relationship that saw them patching things up after a breakup in 2022.

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Rex

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Getty

The actress, however, continues her public appearances as she attended the Bags of Ethics x British Fashion Council Diwali party in a floral autumnal dress on Tuesday.

The TV star’s Johanna Ortiz Between Daydreams botanical print cutout maxi dress is said to be worth £1,254.

According to The Mail, Rouass’ engagement ring was missing after the recent news of her breakup with O’Sullivan.

The couple first met in 2012 when the Footballers’ Wives star was looking for a new home and stumbled upon the snooker star’s abode.

His father showed Rouass around the property, and later told his son who had been round.

That led to O’Sullivan contacting the estate agent, who asked her out on his behalf.

Four months later, the pair were head over heels for one another and set up home before getting engaged in 2013.

However, despite everything appearing to be rosy in their garden – the two temporarily broke up in 2022.

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But the break-up seemingly ended within weeks, with the snooker star insisting things were happier than ever.

Nevertheless, that also didn’t last long as news broke they went their separate ways last month.

O’Sullivan was knocked out of the BetVictor English Open on Tuesday.

Rex

Rex

Rex