Barcelona extend their lead at the top of the league to seven points with late comeback at home.
LaLiga leaders Barcelona have fought back from 3-1 down to beat Celta Vigo 4-3 in a roller-coaster encounter as a stoppage-time penalty by Raphinha extends their lead over Real Madrid at the top of the table to seven points.
With the score tied at 3-3 after Celta’s Borja Iglesias netted a hat-trick, Saturday’s game in Barcelona seemed to be heading for a draw when Dani Olmo won a penalty deep into added time and Raphinha stepped up to score and seal the three points.
The result puts the pressure back on Real Madrid, who play fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Celta Vigo are seventh with 43 points.
“This is football. We wanted to win this game, but we weren’t always at our best,” Barca substitute and goal scorer Dani Olmo told DAZN. “But the team came through in the end, and the crowd pushed us on right to the finish.
“It’s three points towards our objective, but we have to keep going.”
Barcelona took the lead when Ferran Torres picked up the ball in midfield and found space to dribble towards goal, pulling the trigger from the edge of the box to beat goalkeeper Vicente Guaita for his 10th league goal of the season.
But Celta responded immediately when Pablo Duran put in a superb cross from the wing, and as Wojciech Szczesny sprinted off his line to collect the ball, the Polish keeper missed it to give Iglesias a tap-in into an empty net.
Barca fell behind seven minutes into the second half when Frenkie de Jong made an error and completely missed a long ball, allowing Iglesias to run through and beat Szczesny to grab his second goal.
Celta Vigo’s Borja Iglesias scores their third goal to complete his hat-trick [Albert Gea/Reuters]
Iglesias hat-trick for Celta Vigo
As Barca pushed forward to find an equaliser, a Celta clearance found Iglesias again, and he capitalised on the home side’s high line to sprint through on goal and beat Szczesny for a third time to claim his hat-trick.
A stunned Barcelona tried to recover quickly, and they got one back in the 64th minute when Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha combined to find Olmo, who scored five minutes after coming on as a substitute.
“He [coach Hansi Flick] told me we needed to play a little more calmer. We just needed to connect with each other better,” Olmo said about what Flick told him before he went onto the pitch.
Four minutes later, Barcelona levelled it at 3-3 when Lamine Yamal crossed the ball into the 5.5-metre (6-yard) box, where Raphinha rose above the defence to head home.
A shell-shocked Celta looked to leave with a point, but Olmo earned a penalty when he was fouled in the box and the referee had no doubts when he pointed to the spot after a VAR check.
Raphinha then stepped up and blasted the ball into the top corner in the 98th minute for his 30th goal in all competitions this season.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling because we did a lot of things right,” Celta’s Pablo Duran said. “They’ve got such a high level, especially in the final third. They’re capable of these things.
“We should be very proud of ourselves, coming here and showing a lot of character, playing our football. For a lot of the game, we were better than them, but we go away with a bad feeling because of the result.”
IT is easy to get caught out on the roads, especially if you’re travelling somewhere new.
If you’re out on day trips or enjoying city breaks this summer, keep money in your pocket by avoiding unnecessary fines.
7
Four savvy ways to avoid unnecessary fines on family days out this summerCredit: Getty
CLEAN AIR FARE: If you’re taking a city break, many places now have clean air or low emission zones and some of them charge private cars for driving through, including Bristol, Birmingham and London.
Other cities charge vans and larger vehicles.
If your car doesn’t comply, you’ll need to pay, and face a fine if you don’t.
So check before you travel and, if you do have to pay, use official websites to avoid rogue operators.
You need to pay the Dart Charge by midnight the day after you cross.
Glasgow driver slapped with parking fine outside own home
But it’s easy to forget and then receive a fine of up to £70.
If you use a toll road regularly, set up an automatic payment.
Anyone can set up a Dart Charge account and link it to a payment card, so that the crossing fee is taken automatically.
Pre-pay account holders also get 20 per cent off.
PARKING FINES: Getting a fine can ruin your day. Manchester City Council issued the most last year with 460,000 tickets.
Read signs as sneaky restrictions can catch you out.
If you haven’t got cash, parking apps such as RingGo and PaybyPhone downloaded and linked to your bank can be helpful, but you will pay more if you use them.
All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Deal of the day
7
Save £75 on the Valencia rattan effect corner sofa set from B&M,Credit: B&M
PREPARE for the long summer days with the Valencia rattan effect corner sofa set from B&M, down from £250 to £175.
SAVE: £75
Cheap treat
7
Save £1.10 on the cream bunny rabbit from The RangeCredit: The Range
FOR children hopping with Easter excitement, the cream bunny rabbit from The Range will be a hit, and it’s down from £5.59 to £3.49.
SAVE: £2.10
What’s new?
LOOK out for new Mr Kipling Caramel Tart ice cream, down from £3.50 to £2.50 at Morrisons from tomorrow.
Top swap
7
Give curious tots a step up with the Kids’ step stool and craft table, £69.99, from AmazonCredit: Amazon
7
Or Aldi’s Sohl learning tower, £34.99, available from tomorrow, transforms into a table and chairCredit: Aldi
GIVE curious tots a step up with the Kids’ step stool and craft table, £69.99, from Amazon.
Or Aldi’s Sohl learning tower, £34.99, available from tomorrow, transforms into a table and chair.
SAVE: £35
Little helper
THE EASTER dine-in deal at M&S ends tomorrow, so hurry to get a main, including a bone-in lamb shoulder, and three side dishes for £20, saving up to £9.50, serving a hungry family of four.
Shop & save
7
Save up to £2.20 with with the Co-op’s offer of two gammon steaks and friesCredit: Supplied
HAM-up mealtimes with the Co-op’s offer of two gammon steaks and fries for £4.50, saving members £2.20 (£5 to non-members, saving £1.70).
SAVE: Up to £2.20
Hot right now
SAVE on hundreds of items at Hobbycraft, including a colour-in pirate ship, down from £20 to £10.
PLAY NOW TO WIN £200
7
Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle
JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.
Every month we’re giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers – whether you’re saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered.
Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket.
The more codes you enter, the more tickets you’ll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!
Greg Cronin was fired Saturday as coach of the Anaheim Ducks after two seasons, general manager Pat Verbeek announced.
“He is responsible in many ways for the improvement we’ve seen from our young core. However, after several weeks of careful evaluation, I concluded we needed a change in direction and a new voice,” Verbeek said in a statement about Cronin. “This was an extremely difficult decision for me to make, but I felt it was necessary to continue our progress toward becoming a Stanley Cup contender that I know we can be.”
Cronin is the first coach fired since the regular season ended on Thursday with more changes expected around the league. Chicago and Philadelphia have interim coaches.
The Ducks missed the playoffs for the seventh straight consecutive season, finishing 35-37-10. Their 80 points were a 21-point improvement over last year, but weren’t enough to save Cronin’s job.
Cronin posted a 62-87-15 record in two seasons. He joined the Ducks after five seasons with the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League. The Eagles are an affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche.
The next coach of the Ducks will have a talented young core with which to work.
Anaheim’s 178 points from players age 22 or younger (74 goals, 104 assists) were second to San Jose. The Ducks’ young cast includes center Mason McTavish, who led the team with 22 goals and was second in points with 52.
Center Leo Carlsson, the second overall pick in the 2023 NHL draft, had 20 goals and 44 points while left wing Cutter Gauthier had 20 goals and 44 points in his first full season. The core also features defensemen Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger.
April 18 (UPI) —Hamas rejected a Gaza cease-fire proposed by Israel this week and called for what it called a comprehensive deal to end the war instead.
Hamas said it is ready to begin talks on a deal to release all hostages in return for a full Israeli withdrawal and a complete cease-fire.
“We will not accept partial deals that serve Netanyahu’s political agenda. Netanyahu and his government use partial agreements as a cover for their political agenda, which is based on continuing the war of extermination and starvation, even if the price is sacrificing all his prisoners [hostages],” Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya said in a video statement.
The Israeli proposal called for Hamas disarmament and did not guarantee ending the Gaza war. Hamas refuses to disarm and said it won’t agree to a cease-fire that doesn’t include a permanent end ot the war.
The Israeli deal was for a six-week cease-fire.
Far-right Israeli lawmakers responded by urging immediate escalation in pursuit of a “complete victory.”
The Israeli cease-fire offer would release the remaining 59 hostages in stages. More than 1200 Palestinian prisoners and detainees would be freed in exchange.
Just 24 of the remaining hostages are believed to be alive.
Hamas indicated it’s ready to immediately start negotiations but insists on retaining arms and a full Israeli withdrawal.
“The state of Israel shall not surrender to Hamas and won’t end the war without the complete victory and fulfillment of all its objectives, including eliminating Hamas and returning all the hostages,” Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said in a statement.
The US president has threatened to ‘move on’ if he sees no progress from Russia and Ukraine.
Before he took office, US President Donald Trump said he would end the war in Ukraine “within 24 hours” of entering the White House.
But nearly 100 days into his presidency, he’s made little headway, as the fighting continues.
Now, Trump is threatening to walk away from efforts to broker peace, saying if the parties are too difficult to work with, “we’re just going to move on.”
Will Trump’s threat push Russia and Ukraine to more urgently engage to end the conflict, now in its third year?
Presenter: Dareen Abughaida
Guests:
Vladimir Sotnikov, Associate professor of international relations, Higher School of Economics
Donald Jensen, Senior fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies
Mattia Nelles, Chief executive, German-Ukrainian Bureau think tank.
Honestly, for bibliophiles, is there a better weekend in spring than late April at the L.A. Times Festival of Books? The temps will be in the 70s, authors will be giving keynote speeches or participating in panel discussions, and the USC campus will be filled with merchants selling everything from books (and books and books) and comfy T-shirts to pretty notebooks and lusciously scented candles for your reading nook.
This year’s fest, the 30th annual edition, takes place the weekend of April 26 and 27. Bring your walking shoes and a tote bag for all the goodies you’ll pick up as you wander between stages, merchant booths and panels featuring a stupendous lineup of world-class writers.
Celebrity watchers will be in for a treat as Hollywood stars such as Josh Gad, Wil Wheaton, Wilmer Valderamma, Ben Falcone, comedian Chelsea Handler and the rock musician Peter Wolf will all be talking about their new books.
The festival will be like an unending dessert table of the biggest names in the book world. Authors from the romance, fantasy (and romantasy!), sci-fi and horror spaces will appear alongside leaders in the literary fiction and nonfiction worlds talking about topics ranging from politics to nature to law enforcement to cooking.
Want to find out more? Here is the complete schedule of events for you to peruse. And an insider tip: The Festival of Books app is available so that you can reserve tickets to special events or hear from your favorite author. Make sure to check out the family activities all weekend geared toward young readers.
Panel-palooza
Audience members cheer and laugh at the 2024 edition of the L.A. Times Festival of Books during RuPaul’s discussion of his book “The House of Hidden Meaning.”
(Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)
Here are a few of the Saturday panels I can’t wait to stop by. I’ll cover the Sunday panels in the next edition of the newsletter, so make sure to check your inbox next week.
First up, a panel that I’m moderating: “Sisterhood in Contemporary Fiction,” with Lisa See, Lynn Steger Strong, and Caoilinn Hughes. We’ll be talking about women’s relationships with their closest friends, who — sometimes — are also sisters.
As books and libraries increasingly come under attack, the panel “One Page at a Time” feels essential. Those on the front lines of the book wars will talk about their experiences and provide audience members with advice on how to protect their own communities and school libraries.
Jason De León, Jessica Pishko and Jesse Katz focus on the humanity of those members of our culture who have been targeted for inhumane treatment in the panel “Undocumented: The Price of the Promised Land.” Katz is also a finalist for a L.A. Times Book Prize for his book, “The Rent Collectors.”
Kiese Laymon, whose memoir, “Heavy,” was on our list of the “30 Best nonfiction books of the past 30 years, will present his new children’s book, “City Summer, Country Summer,” about joy among a group of friends in the South. Also on the schedule: Noted voting rights activist Stacey Abrams speaks about “Stacey Speaks Up,” her children’s book about a determined little girl who speaks against injustice.
The panel “Journey to the HEA: Tackling Big Topics in Romance” explores romantic territory in which happily ever after (HEA) comes only after a lot of plot-twisting obstacles. (On Saturday alone, three hot panels on romance are enough to rev up our hearts.)
More information on tickets, schedule and participants is available at the Festival of Books website. Downloading the app will keep you up to date on festival surprises and schedule changes.
The L.A. Times Book Prizes will be awarded in a public ceremony on Friday, April 25 at 7 p.m. at Bovard Auditorium at USC. Special awards will go to Pico Iyer, Emily Witt and poet Amanda Gorman. Prizes will be given in categories such as fiction, current events, poetry, mystery, biography, history, young adult, science fiction, sciences, audiobooks and graphic novels/comics. The Art Seidenbaum award for debut fiction will also be given out. The winners are sure to represent a stunning assortment of books that have topped best-seller and year-end lists.
(Please note: The Times may earn a commission through links to Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookstores.)
The Week(s) in Books
To celebrate the 30th edition of the L.A. Times Festival of Books, we asked authors, editors, critics and scholars to select the 30 best fiction books since the festival was inaugurated.
(Patrick Hruby / Los Angeles Times)
Phew. As if there weren’t enough to chew on with the upcoming festival, the books world has continued to make news. Here are some of the top stories in the lit world:
1996 was the year that the festival debuted, and Carolyn Kellogg explains how it turned out to be a momentous year for the books industry.
Poetry remains an exciting place where lyrical wordsmiths turn truth into art. The legendary Cave Canem organization has become an incubator for some of the finest Black American poets of the past 30 years. As Reginald Dwayne Betts observes, “If there was a centrifugal force in American letters over the last 25 years, it is undeniable that it has been Cave Canem.”
Those who love the classic mystery writers Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie have reason to rejoice: Britbox debuted Christie’s “Towards Zero,” a sexy mystery about an adulterous tennis star, his dower aunt (played by Anjelica Huston), and a depressed detective played by the Welsh actor Matthew Rhys. After two episodes, I’m hooked. Over on the CW, actor David Thewlis plays Sherlock Holmes to Blu Hunt’s Amelia Rojas in “Sherlock and Daughter.” After her mother is murdered, young Amelia journeys from America to join her father, the noted detective, in solving her mother’s homicide.
Blackstone Publishing, a vibrant press in southern Oregon, has been my go-to for “Belfast Noir,” a genre that sets its crimes during the Troubles or under the civil war’s lingering shadows. Among the Blackstone authors is Adrian McKinty, who topped the bestseller lists with “The Chain” and “The Island.” But the series I love features Det. Sean Duffy, whose presence as a Catholic with the Royal Ulster Constabulary is a constant source of tension. Book 8, “Hang on, St. Christopher,” was released in early March.
On the other side of the country, Manhattan’s Soho Press offers an off-kilter mystery that is un-baaaa-lievable but so much fun. In “Three Bags Full” , Irish author Leonie Swann sets a mystery in a farmyard. As a farmer lies dying, his flock of sheep is mobilized to solve his murder and bring the killer to justice. (Trust me on this. You’ll want to check it out.)
Booksellers will have thousands of books on display later this month at the L.A. Times Festival of Books.
There’s a lot of bad news out there, so here are some bookish delights that have made me smile in recent days:
The United States Postal Service debuted stamps in honor of Marjorie Wise Brown’s “Goodnight Moon.” I’m betting most parents will be able to identify — from repetitive memory — the text that goes along with each scene.
Here’s a handy guide to the newest literary genres sure to join romantasy, cli-fi, and spicyTok on next year’s hot list.
Writer Elon Green talks about people mistaking him for the other Elon.
In one Michigan community, a human chain helped a small bookstore transport its entire inventory, one book at a time, to its new location.
After technical talks, senior negotiators expected to reunite on April 26, according to Iran’s foreign ministry.
Iran and the United States have completed a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations, which Iran’s foreign minister has described as “constructive” and moving forward with further meetings planned in the coming week.
Abbas Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff held four hours of indirect talks at Oman’s embassy in the Italian capital, Rome, on Saturday, according to Araghchi.
“We succeeded in reaching a better understanding on certain principles and goals,” the diplomat was quoted by the semiofficial Tasnim news agency as saying. “The negotiations were conducted in a constructive atmosphere and are progressing.”
There has been no readout yet of the meeting from the US side.
The delegations – led by Araghchi and Witkoff, a billionaire real estate executive whom US President Donald Trump has dispatched on numerous foreign policy missions – stayed in separate rooms in the embassy as Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi shuttled messages between them, according to Iranian officials.
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the parties will hold more indirect, technical-level talks in the coming days, followed by another meeting with senior officials on April 26.
There were useful indirect talks today between Iran and the United States conducted by Oman Foreign Minister in a constructive atmosphere.
The two sides agreed to continue the indirect talks in few days at technical level to be followed by another round at their own level on…
“I hope that after next week’s technical sessions, we’ll be in a better position,” Araghchi said, according to Tasnim. “There’s no reason for excessive optimism or pessimism.”
‘Negotiations to pick up’
Al Jazeera’s James Bays, reporting near the Omani diplomatic compound in Rome, said the Iranian response was “very positive” for a delegation that “had seemed pretty negative going into the talks”.
Next week’s planned talks mean “the pace of negotiations is going to be picked up”, Bays said.
The latest meeting comes a week after Iran and the US came together in Muscat for their first high-level discussions since Trump in 2018 unilaterally abandoned a landmark nuclear accord signed and brokered by world powers in 2015.
The Iranians “are looking for a kind of consistency when it comes to the current talks”, Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi reported from Tehran.
Will US accept civilian nuclear programme?
Western governments, including the US, have long accused Iran of seeking to develop nuclear weapons – an allegation Tehran has denied, insisting its nuclear programme is solely for peaceful civilian use. On Wednesday, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, said Iran was “not far” from possessing a nuclear weapon.
Grossi was also in Rome on Saturday meeting Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Grossi’s nuclear watchdog would likely be central in verifying compliance by Iran should a deal be reached, as it did with the 2015 accord.
The US and Iran have had no diplomatic relations since shortly after Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. After returning to office in January, Trump revived his “maximum pressure” sanctions campaign against Tehran, but in March, he sent a letter to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei calling for renewed negotiations – while warning of military consequences if diplomacy fails.
“I’m not in a rush” to use force, Trump said on Thursday. “I think Iran wants to talk.”
Bays said the heart of the dispute remains whether Iran may maintain a civilian nuclear programme – or whether, as hardliners in Washington insist, it must dismantle its nuclear programme entirely.
“All they’ve been talking about last week in Muscat and here in Rome is a framework for the discussions and what they want to achieve,” Bays said. “They have not been discussing the nuclear detail, … and the devil is in the detail on these things.”
AT LEAST Brighton fans have one of England’s top destinations to enjoy, right on their doorsteps.
Because despite an unexpectedly resilient end to their ill-disciplined defeat against Brentford, there now seems to be little chance of any European trips anytime soon.
10
Brentford romped to a 4-2 win over BrightonCredit: Reuters
10
Bryan Mbeumo was on target for his 17th and 18th goals of the Premier League seasonCredit: Reuters
10
Kauro Mitoma netted late on for BrightonCredit: Reuters
10
Christian Norgaard wrapped up the win in the 95th minuteCredit: Reuters
Joao Pedro’s sending off after 61 minutes typified an afternoon when the South Coast side struggled to stand up to Brentford’s more physical and direct presence.
It added an unfortunate sour note to a defeat that had otherwise been largely of Brighton’s making.
Pedro’s petulant elbow flung at Nathan Collins as the pair tussled for a meaningless high ball on the edge of the centre circle summed up the frustration felt by a team who have now gone five games without a win.
Pedro himself was annoyed still that just moments earlier he had fizzed the ball across the face of goal, but no Brighton player was there to convert it.
The contact with Collins was not much, but it looked like enough – certainly VAR was not about to argue with referee Tim Robinson.
Brighton were already two goals down by this stage on an afternoon when very little seemed to go their way.
An up-tempo second-half performance by Brentford had blown them away – although their two goals shortly after the break both took massive deflections off Brighton captain Lewis Dunk.
Brentford had come racing out for the second half and immediately punished a groggy-looking Brighton defence.
Bryan Mbuemo was given time on the right to cut in and hit a left-foot shot which hit Dunk’s puffed-out chest and bobbled past Bart Verbruggen and into the far corner.
Football teams that controversially changed their badge
10
Joao Pedro was sent off for lashing outCredit: PA
10
Thomas Frank’s side have kept their European hopes aliveCredit: Reuters
10
Fabian Hurzeler’s side are winless in five league gamesCredit: PA
With their newfound energy, Brentford were suddenly mounting a much more direct physical threat, particularly from set-pieces.
Somehow Brighton managed to bundle away two high, menacing corners that dropped at the far post in quick succession and even tried to counter.
However, a brilliant pass down the channels by Mikkel Damsgaard sent Mbuemo clear again, only this time he cut the ball across the area and, thanks to another cruel Dunk deflection, Yoane Wissa was able to force his shot into the back of the net.
In fairness, Brighton did not flinch from their uphill battle and Fabian Hurzeler brought back into the side Kaoru Mitoma among a number of changes from he bench designed to make up for the numerical disadvantages.
Brentford have recently held Chelsea and Arsenal to creditable draws to prompt suggestions that they have it within them to challenge higher up the table next season with a bit more consistency, but the GTech Stadium has not been the fortress it was in 2024.
Indeed the Bees had not won here in any competition since December.
So there was understandable anger in the ranks when Brentford’s defence seemed to remain static while Mitoma found a way to wriggle away from them and score far too easily despite Brentford’s extra man.
Brighton chairman Tony Bloom had turned down a place in the directors’ box to take his place in the corner among the away support and they did their utmost to cheer their side back into contention.
A thrilling finale seemed unlikely given the visitors had even started the game on the back foot once an early Matt O’Riley free-kick had flown harmlessly over the bar.
Wissa should have given Brentford the lead inside three minutes when he met Kevin Schade’s perfectly-placed cross only to shoot too close to Bart Verbruggen and allowing the Brighton goalkeeper to turn the ball past his post with his foot.
Instead, it was Mbuemo who burst through the middle in the 10th minute to give Brentford the lead with a powerful finish that left Verbruggen with no chance.
Then with virtually the final touch of the half, Brighton snatched an equaliser.
Danny Welbeck may not have the same spring in his step as when he was a kid, but the 34-year-old had showed the cunning of his years to steer a header inside the post while leaning back to meet Mats Wieffer’s cross in the last minute of injury time.
Could Brighton do something similar in the second half?
The energy in his legs meant the former Manchester United striker had long departed before the fourth official raised his board to indicated that there would be eight extra minutes at the end of the second period to raise hopes that they could.
In the end, it was simply time for Brentford to pour more misery onto their opponents.
Another deep looping cross, this time from substitute Mathias Jensen, was headed in by Damsgaard from amid a crowd of players.
Tempers still showed no signs of calming and an unseemly bustle ensued when Jan Paul van Hecke kicked out after an untidy challenge on the edge of the Brighton penalty area.
This time the card was yellow and when the free-kick sailed harmlessly into the stand it really should have been game over.
LINCOLN, Neb. — The state treasurer pleaded guilty Wednesday to official misconduct for writing $300,000 in phony checks.
Lorelee Byrd, 47, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count in a deal that will keep her out of jail. James Foster scheduled sentencing for Jan. 29, at which Byrd faces a $1,000 fine.
Byrd had agreed to plead guilty Tuesday after Atty. Gen. Jon Bruning announced that he planned to file 13 charges against her. Bruning said it was unlikely that anyone else would be charged in the three-month investigation.
Byrd was accused of writing the checks Feb. 21 and keeping them in her vault. She voided them June 27, shortly after the Legislature ended its budget-cutting session. It is against state law to knowingly write checks without having a purchase order, contract or bill to be paid.
She denied that she wrote the checks to make it appear as if the money had been spent in a bid to protect her office from legislative budget cuts. Instead, she said the checks were her contingency plan to make sure enough money was available to process child-support payments if the state’s new accounting system failed when it went into operation in March.
Byrd said Wednesday that she would consider Gov. Mike Johanns’ request for her to step down, saying she would do so if she decided that would be best for her office.
“It’s important that I have an opportunity over the next several days to look carefully at what the governor’s talking about,” Byrd said. “This has happened very quickly.”
On Tuesday, Byrd had said she would not resign.
Several state senators said they were considering impeachment proceedings.
Byrd said that by pleading guilty to the one count, she was saving taxpayer money by avoiding a costly trial and possible appeals.
Questions about improprieties in the office were first raised by someone providing an anonymous tip to the state auditor’s hotline for reporting government waste, fraud and abuse.
Tries from Edwin Ipape, Ethan O’Neill and Frankie Halton lead Leigh Leopards to an important victory against Warrington Wolves that moves them up to third in the Super League table.
April 19 (UPI) — The U.S. Supreme Court early Saturday paused the deportations of any Venezuelans held in northern Texas under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.
The court, on a 7-2 split, with Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissenting, issued a two-paragraph order early Saturday halting the deportations.
“Upon action by the Fifth Circuit, the Solicitor General is invited to file a response to the application before this Court as soon as possible. The Government is directed not to remove any member of the putative class of detainees from the United States until further order of this Court,” the justices wrote in the order.
The Alien Enemies Act is a wartime authority that allows the president to detain or deport natives and citizens of an enemy nation. It was last invoked in World War II when people of Japanese descent were imprisoned without trial in internment camps.
This is the second time the Supreme Court has acted on President Donald Trump‘s use of the act. Last week, the court allowed Trump to use the authority but migrants being removed needed to receive notice and can have their deportation reviewed by a federal court.
The justices also ruled that migrants could only challenge their deportations in court districts where the facilities they are being detained are located.
On Friday, attorneys for the Venezuelans filed an emergency appeal that the migrants, being held at the Bluebonnet Detention Center in Anson, about 204 miles west of Dallas, were at immediate risk of being deported but were given less than 24 hours to challenge their deportation.
“I am sympathetic to everything you’re saying, I just don’t I think I have the power to do anything,” District Court Judge James Boasberg told a lawyer for the migrants at an emergency hearing Friday night.
Boasberg, who asked an attorney for the Trump administration when it will resume deportations, said he decided not to rule because of “where the issue stands in the 5th Circuit and the Supreme Court.” The Fifth Circuit considers appeals coming out of Texas.
Justice Department attorney Drew Ensign told the court that the Department of Homeland Security “reserves the right to remove migrants Saturday.”
Boasberg told ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt, who is representing the migrants, that the notice they received is “very troubling” and likely does not comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Boasberg has ordered contempt proceedings against the Trump administration for allegedly defying his earlier order, although on Friday nigh, an appeals court in the District of Columbia issued an administrative pause on Boasberg’s plans.
The Trump administration has said it has the authority to swiftly remove immigrants they accuse of being members of the Tren de Aragua gang the Alien Enemies Act and has defied numerous court orders, including from the Supreme Court, as it moves to deport alleged gang members.
Trump signed an executive order on March 15 designating the Venezuelan gang as a Foreign Terrorist Organization with thousands of members, “many of whom have unlawfully infiltrated the United States and are conducting irregular warfare and undertaking hostile actions against the United States.”
Asked about the deportation case, Trump said Friday he was unfamiliar with the particular case but said that “if they’re bad people, I would certainly authorize it.”
“That’s why I was elected. A judge wasn’t elected,” he later added in comments at the White House.
Western brands have been hit by boycotts and other forms of protests in Muslim-majority countries due to the Gaza war.
Police have arrested close to 200 people in Pakistan in recent weeks after more than 10 group attacks on outlets of the United States-based fast-food chain KFC, sparked by anti-US sentiment, unconditional US backing for Washington’s close ally Israel and opposition to Israel’s war in Gaza, officials say.
The fast-food chain has become a target of protest and boycott calls by Islamist parties since the start of the war in Gaza as they link the brand to US support for Israel.
At least 178 people have been arrested, the officials said this week.
Police in major cities in Pakistan – including the southern port city of Karachi, the eastern city of Lahore and the capital, Islamabad – confirmed at least 11 incidents in which KFC chicken restaurants were attacked by protesters armed with sticks and vandalised.
A police official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said one KFC employee was shot and killed this week in a store on the outskirts of Lahore by unknown gunmen. The official added there was no protest at the time and police were investigating whether the killing was politically motivated or for some other reason.
In Lahore, police said they were ramping up security at 27 KFC outlets after two attacks took place and five were prevented.
“We are investigating the role of different individuals and groups in these attacks,” Faisal Kamran, a senior Lahore police officer told the Reuters news agency, adding that 11 people, including a member of the Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), have been arrested in the city. He added the protests were not officially organised by the TLP.
TLP spokesman Rehan Mohsin Khan said the group “has urged Muslims to boycott Israeli products, but it has not given any call for protest outside KFC”.
“If any other person claiming to be a TLP leader or activist has indulged in such activity, it should be taken as his personal act which has nothing to do with the party’s policy,” Khan said.
Western brands have been hit by boycotts and other forms of protests in Pakistan, other Muslim-majority countries and several Western nations over Israel’s military offensive in the Gaza Strip.
In February last year, McDonald’s cited boycott campaigns in the Middle East, Indonesia and Malaysia for sales growing just 0.7 percent during the fourth quarter of 2023, compared with 16.5 percent growth in the same quarter the previous year.
Unilever – which produces Dove soap, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and Knorr stock cubes – also said sales in Indonesia in the same quarter had experienced a double-digit decline as a result of “geopolitically focused, consumer-facing campaigns”.
A KFC restaurant in the Pakistan-administered region of Kashmir was also set on fire in March last year as protesters chanted “Free Palestine.”
More than 51,900 people have been killed in Gaza during Israel’s war, which began 18 months ago.
At least 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023, and more than 200 were taken captive.
KFC and its parent company Yum Brands have not yet responded to news of the arrests in Pakistan.
Celebrity Big Brother fans expecting a ‘backdoor eviction’ have been left confused after former Olympian Daley Thompson became the fourth famous face to leave the current ITV series
15:57, 19 Apr 2025Updated 15:58, 19 Apr 2025
Celebrity Big Brother fans are wondering about a backdoor eviction
Fans of Celebrity Big Brother have been left in the lurch regarding a potential “backdoor eviction”. Viewers were confused over the idea of another housemate leaving without a live audience. It comes after reports suggested Friday would see two housemates leave.
On the live show, Daley Thompson became the fourth celebrity to leave the ITV show – and the third via public vote.Viewers they took to social media to vent their thoughts on another potential leaver – and it appears former Love Island star Chris Hughes could be in the firing line. However, any exit won’t be revealed to the viewing public until the show returns on Sunday.
On Twitter /X, one user fumed over Chris’ antics on the cat challenge. As the group dressed as felines, the reality TV star took it one step further and actually used the litter tray as his toiled. The fan wrote: “Chris needs to get a backdoor eviction for that piddling.. Did he even wash his hands after?”
Trisha Goddard has already left the Big Brother house(Image: Sofi Adams/REX/Shutterstock for Big Brother)
Another agreed, saying following Chris and JoJo’s litter tray antics: “Disgusting, backdoor evict for one of them #cbbuk sick of their show.”
However, some fans wondered if the alleged backdoor eviction will actually take place. Another wrote after Friday’s edition: “Nothing on this backdoor that was supposed to happen tomorrow… #CBBUK #CBB.” “
So is a backdoor eviction not happening on Sunday then? Absolutely no mention on Late and Live #CBBUK,” added another.
A third said: “Live stream is over, unsure if we’ve got a 5 hour long one tonight if this “backdoor eviction” is planned or not guess we will have to see. Anyway goodnight #CBBUK #CBBLive.”
And another confused viewer said: “If there’s a backdoor eviction today, will the livestream still go ahead tonight ? or will they just slideshow and bird sound the whole thing #cbbuk”
During Friday’s night’s eviction, former Olympian Daley Thompson threw shade at co-host Will Best. As he left the house, Daley sat down with hosts AJ Odudu and Will. As they chatted in the exit interview, Daley repeatedly told the duo they should try a stint in the house at some point.
On one occasion, Will joked that he didn’t think he was famous enough to take part in the celebrity lineup. Daley stunned viewers as he jibed back in agreement. Taking to social media one user gasped: “Aww Daley just rinsed Will! #CBBUK.”
Another added: “OMG not Daley telling CBB host Will Best that he’s not famous enough for #CBBUK,” followed by a skull and crossbones emoji.
Speaking to the duo following his exit, Daley said: “I would have liked to have stayed longer but I was quite happy to come out. The problem with it is, no matter what goes on in there, it’s you lot out here,” as he pointed to the public.
He also added that he didn’t have “high hopes” for his housemates, adding: “They have been funny, revealing, great people.”
The Vatican affirmed good relations with the US but noted ‘an exchange of opinions’ on global conflicts and migration.
US Vice President JD Vance has met with the Vatican’s top diplomats, discussing the politically fraught issue of migration months after Pope Francis rebuked the new US administration’s hardline immigration stance.
Vance, a Catholic convert, held what the Vatican described as “cordial talks” with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin – the Holy See’s second highest official after the pope – and Paul Richard Gallagher, the secretary for relations with states.
“There was an exchange of opinions on the international situation, especially regarding countries affected by war, political tensions and difficult humanitarian situations, with particular attention to migrants, refugees, and prisoners,” the Vatican said in a statement.
The two sides also stressed “the common commitment to protect the right to freedom of religion and conscience”, the Vatican said.
In February, Pope Francis angered the White House after writing a letter to US bishops in which he condemned Trump’s plan to deport migrants en masse, describing it as a “major crisis”.
Trump’s border tsar told Francis to “stick to” religion.
The Vatican made no mention of any such meeting with the pontiff, who has resumed some official duties, and Vance’s entourage has not commented on the remainder of his programme in Rome.
Last year, Francis also made a rare foray into the US election season to call harsh anti-migrant attitudes “madness” and criticise right-wing US Catholic figures for overly conservative stances.
But following Saturday’s meeting, the Vatican did acknowledge the US Catholic Church’s “valuable service to the most vulnerable people”.
Good morning, and welcome to L.A. on the Record — our City Hall newsletter. It’s Rebecca Ellis, with an assist from my colleague David Zahniser, giving you the latest on city and county government.
Newsletter
Get the lowdown on L.A. politics
Sign up for our L.A. City Hall newsletter to get weekly insights, scoops and analysis.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
’Tis the season for financial woes.
L.A. city officials can’t afford the pay raises they agreed to just last year. Legal payouts are skyrocketing. The city’s infrastructure sustained hundreds of millions in damage from the Palisades fire.
L.A. County hasn’t fared much better. Officials say they’re saddled with roughly $2 billion in wildfire costs. They’ve reached a $4-billion sex abuse settlement — the largest in U.S. history. The Trump administration keeps threatening to slash federal funds.
So how come only the city is in a financial crisis?
“We’re not writing checks that can’t be cashed,” said L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
This week, the county unveiled its $48-billion proposed budget for the next fiscal year, put together amid what everyone agreed were “unprecedented” financial pressures.
And yet the announcement wasn’t all doom and gloom. The county wasn’t expecting any layoffs. Cuts this year would amount to a measly $89 million. And the budget was balanced.
Compared with the city, which reported a projected budget shortfall just shy of $1 billion and “nearly inevitable” layoffs, the announcement was borderline jolly.
The city’s fiscal fiasco was a “wake-up call,” said Barger, who attributed part of the county’s success to the fact that, unlike the city, she and her colleagues have not agreed to dramatic raises for employees.
“Then, we’re not laying off employees as a result of not planning our fiscal situation years out,” said Barger.
That willingness to draw the line could have other repercussions.
On Thursday, SEIU Local 721, which represents 55,000 county employees, announced they planned to strike at the end of the month, in part because, according to the union, the county has slow rolled contract negotiations.
“We’ve been stuck at zero for more than six months,” said union head David Green. “That’s just not an offer — that’s pushing people to leave their jobs.”
To weather choppy financial waters, the county is also leaning heavily on its plush rainy day fund, which it can drain to pay for the mammoth sex abuse settlement. The fund has not been touched since the aftermath of the Great Recession.
“It is like the holy grail,” said Chief Executive Officer Fesia Davenport of the billion-dollar pot.
The city, by contrast, has repeatedly tapped its reserve, which was hovering above 3% earlier this year.
L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, in an interview, said the city’s financial problems are about more than employee pay. The biggest drivers of the budget crisis are a downturn in economic activity — including lower-than-expected tax revenues — and the soaring cost of legal settlements and jury awards, she said.
“If all we had was the rising personnel costs, we wouldn’t even be considering layoffs or drastic cuts,” she said.
Longtime employees say penny-pinching has been in the county government’s bloodstream ever since it almost went bankrupt in 1995. The healthcare system was on the brink of collapse due to sloppy financial planning by county leaders.
“It was an embarrassment,” said former Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, who helped steer the county out of the red. “This was like our Great Depression: We never want to be put in this position again.”
Still, the careful planning by the county’s financial minds may all be for naught.
Two days after Davenport announced her spending plan, news broke that the Trump administration planned to slash $40 billion from the federal Department of Health and Human Services, sending a wrecking ball through the county Department of Public Health.
“I think every department is just shocked, to be honest,” said county public health director Barbara Ferrer, who called the administration’s cuts “ignorant.”
The county health department gets about $1 billion — two thirds of its total budget — from federal grants, which fund prevention work for everything from lead poisoning to sexually transmitted infections.
Under the proposed federal cuts, the county department would lose about $300 million and roughly 500 employees, decimating the prevention work, said Ferrer.
“You can really now see the administration’s proposal to pretty much decimate local public health as we know it today,” said Ferrer. “You can’t absorb that level of disinvestment. I don’t have $300-million worth of efficiencies to find.”
State of play
— COSTS KEEP COMING: The county has put the estimated cost of the January wildfires at nearly $2 billion, which includes $1 billion in lost revenue and another billion to cover costs like soil testing and debris removal.
— FAILURE TO WARN: The first evacuation order for west Altadena did not come until after dispatchers had received at least 14 reports of fire in the area, according to 911 logs obtained by The Times. Nearly all the deaths from the fire occurred in west Altadena.
— POLLING PLUMMET: Bass is less popular than she was a year ago, according to a new survey by the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. The drop in popularity was likely related to her handling of January’s wildfires.
— SHUTDOWN TIME: A Los Angeles County judge said Friday that he planned to shut down Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey, months after a state oversight body found it “unsuitable” to house youth. The probation department has until early May to plan a relocation for roughly 270 youths in custody.
— NO VISION: City officials released an eagerly anticipated audit of Vision Zero, a program that aims to eliminate traffic fatalities in L.A., and why it failed. Factors include poor coordination and a lack of political will from city leaders, the document said.
— RESUME QUESTIONS: The new head of the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency is leaving when his contract is up this fall. Ryan Johnson’s departure comes amid concerns about his background and how closely he was vetted before taking the gig.
— TAKEOVER TAKEDOWNS: L.A. County took its first step toward dramatically increasing penalties for anyone participating in street takeovers. The county wants to double the misdemeanor fines from $500 to $1,000.
— SEEING RED: The Los Angeles chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America held its annual convention last weekend, with more than 200 members voting on priorities for the coming year. The group will focus on responses to threats from the Trump administration and, at the local level, tenant rights issues. Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez was in attendance.
— WORKING OVERTIME: The county Sheriff’s Department spent $458 million on overtime in the last fiscal year, The Times found. Those expenditures were driven in part by a reduction in the number of deputies since COVID-19.
— SOIL TESTING: The county will allocate $3 million to help homeowners in the Eaton burn area test their soil for lead contamination. The funding comes after elevated levels of the heavy metal were found in the soil of properties with homes still standing.
Enjoying this newsletter? Consider subscribing to the Los Angeles Times
Where is Inside Safe? The mayor’s signature program to combat homelessness went to the streets surrounding Angelus Rosedale Cemetery, moving more than 45 people indoors, according to the mayor’s team. The operation, which took place in the district represented by Hernandez, also resulted in the removal of 20 RVs, the mayor’s office said.
On the docket for next week: Bass will release her budget for 2025-2026 on Monday, the same day as her State of the City address. Should be a big day!
Stay in touch
That’s it for this week! Send your questions, comments and gossip to [email protected]. Did a friend forward you this email? Sign up here to get it in your inbox every Saturday morning.
The bottom came in Minnesota on the second night of back-to-back games in early December, LeBron James showing signs that the mileage he’d compiled over 22 seasons of NBA basketball was starting to erode away his invincibility.
The signs had been building before that wintry Monday night. The game before, he bullied mismatches in the fourth quarter of a one-point win against the Utah Jazz that was much harder than it should’ve ever been. He was bad against the Thunder, middling against the Spurs and shook against the Suns and Nuggets.
Over an eight-game stretch from Nov. 19 through that night in Minnesota, the Lakers were 104 points worse than their opponents when James was on the court.
The end, for the first time, seemed like it was sprinting toward James instead of the other way around. That night in Minnesota, James had to scratch for every one of his 10 points, each miss dragging the shoulders that were always built to carry so much toward the ground.
As a Laker, he might’ve never looked worse.
“It’s everything,” he said of what was going wrong. “It’s the rhythm. I just feel off rhythm.”
That night in Minnesota felt like it happened forever ago as James spoke after the Lakers’ final practice before Game 1 of the playoffs — a series fittingly that will take the team back to Minnesota for Games 3 and 4. Talking with a mixture of focus and intensity in his face, James looked at the practice court and was asked if the necessary ingredients to win him a fifth NBA championship were in the room.
“Yeah,” he said flatly. “Of course.”
Whether or not that belief will be rewarded in June is as much in the future as that miserable Minnesota night is in the past, but James’ recommitment to the team, to the Lakers’ new identity and to himself and his teammates has undoubtedly propelled the team to the place where it credibly believes it can be the last one standing.
James, coach JJ Redick said, got back on track in losses to Miami and Atlanta before using the Lakers’ weeklong break during the in-season tournament to deal with an ailing foot and to recalibrate his mindset.
He became one of the team’s most impactful defenders. He consistently did all the little things that lead to winning, Over the next 35 games, the Lakers won 25 times. During that stretch, James said part of his consistent effort on the defensive end was about showing his son, Bronny, what it took to win in the league.
“Your examples show better sometimes than the words,” he said on Feb. 20 after leading the Lakers to a win on the second night of back-to-back games in Portland. “So, I hope I’m in position now to do both — to be able to give him words of advice and also show him by example.”
Yet it’s been more than that, the sense that James had given himself fully to whatever the Lakers needed. When it meant ceding shots to Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves, he did that. When it meant controlling the glass with Davis out injured, he did that. And when it required moving well out of the way to make room for Luka Doncic after the Lakers stunned everyone, James included, by acquiring him, he did that.
He finished the season averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists. According to basketballreference.com, it’s the 29th time since 1960 a player has averaged at least 24 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in a season. No one older than 31 other than James has ever done it, and he’s done it six times since turning that age.
And somehow, in his 22nd season, he still found ways to get better, shooting the best free-throw percentage (78.2%) of his career.
As the Lakers kept winning, as they kept showing the best teams in the West that they were capable of beating them, the resolve that the Lakers can win only got stronger.
“The belief’s there,” Redick said of James on Friday. “… I think that LeBron’s confidence, belief in himself, in his teammates, when that’s there, it empowers the group even more. So, if the rest of the guys believe it, and LeBron believes it, that really strengthens that resolve and feeling.”
James doubled-down on his role in the Lakers’ offense on Friday, simplifying any lingering questions about hierarchy now that the playoffs are here.
“Give Luka the ball,” he said. “And if we stay ready, we never gotta get ready.”
James made it clear Friday that his belief means nothing when it comes to the Lakers’ goals of winning 16 more times this season, goals that start by beating Minnesota to four wins.
“Obviously you wanna be healthy going into a postseason run,” he said. “That’s most important. And then you want to be able to have been playing at a high level for the majority of the season being in like, must-win games going down the stretch, playoff-type intensity games. And we had that.
“But at the end of the day, I can talk as much as you guys want me to talk, but the game is won in between the four lines. I don’t give a damn how much you know about a team, how much they know about you. All the talking, it’s not about that. It’s about once you get on the floor, the game is won in between the four lines.”
On Saturday, James will walk between them with his best chance to stay there until the NBA Finals since he won a ring in 2020 with the Lakers. And for a person who has come a long way in his career and who managed to come a long way this season, that’s special.
“It’s a blessing. I don’t take it for granted to be able to play in the postseason at my age and how many years I’ve played in this game,” James said. “To be one of 16 teams to go in with this team and know what we’re capable of, all you can do is ask for a chance to be able to compete at the highest level and be able to compete for the ultimate thing. And that’s the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
April 18 (UPI) — Electrical power was restored Friday to nearly 99% of customers less than 48 hours after an island-wide outage, according to a statement from private energy company LUMA.
“As of 5:00 a.m. on April 18, LUMA had restored power to 1,450,367 customers, representing 98.8%, in less than 48 hours since the island-wide outage,” LUMA Energy said in an X statement. “LUMA remains focused on completing the restoration and will continue work until all customers have service.”
The power failure seems to have occurred for several reasons including a failure of the protection system and vegetation on a transmission line along Puerto Rico’s northern coast.
The blackout happened Wednesday afternoon.
Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon said it appeared to have originated between EcoElectrica and Costa Sur as well as in additional transmission segments.
“The company continues to prioritize restoring critical infrastructure, including hospitals, water plants, airports, and emergency services,” LUMA said.
It said some customers could continue to experience temporary outages due to limited generation.
LUMA said between 98% and 100% of hospitals in most regions have power restored and all of the correctional facilities and airports have power restored.
This week’s blackout is the latest in a series of power outages since 2017 when Hurricane Maria wiped out large sections of the island’s power grid.
Another island-wide blackout occurred last New year’s Eve and lasted for two days.
Situated on the picturesque Jurassic Coast, this fishing village in Devon is home to an expansive pebble beach, a cross-section of coastal walks and hosts a world-class regatta every year.
In addition to maintaining a rich fishing tradition, Beer plays host to rowing and sailing tournaments each year(Image: Getty Images)
South Devon is rich in both coast and countryside, but one destination allows travellers to enjoy the best of both. Situated along the famous Jurassic Coast, this seaside village offers dramatic views and a network of stunning coastal paths.
Beer is a fishing village with a history that traces back to the Anglo-Saxon era, when the settlement was still known as Bearu (translated, “The Groves”). Today, the village’s fishing heritage is evidenced by the boats moored along the beach and the abundant offering of seafood fare in nearly every local restaurant.
Beer is located on the edge of the South West Coast Path, promising avid hikers a myriad of paths to choose from. The South West Coast Path National Trail itself stretches for 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Millions descend on the path each year to venture through the dramatic headlands and sweeping valleys and take a much-needed rest by a river estuary.
One of the most popular paths is the coastal walk from Seaton to Beer for its expansive views of the Jurassic Coastline. Another is the 4.5-mile Beer to Branscombe path, a route of moderate difficulty that can be extended for hikers that wish to walk back to Beer instead of jumping on the local bus.
Large limestone cliffs add a sense of privacy to the bay below(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Backed by white limestone cliffs, Beer beach is known for its relative seclusion and impressive views. That said, the shingle and stone beach is better suited for paddleboarders and canoers than it is for sunbathers.
Still, the beach is certainly worth a visit as visitors will be able to marvel at the sight of skilled fishermen taking to the water. The nearby Beer Fisheries Shop and Heritage Centre is also worth a visit and the beach huts and cafes rent out deckchairs for those interested in enjoying the views for a while.
Despite being a predominantly pebbled beach, linked rubber pathways overlain on the stones make the area more accessible and easier to traverse. Keep in mind that while you are permitted to swim in the water, the beach is known to descend quite steeply into the water and is best-suited for confident swimmers.
The Beer Quarry Caves are near to the beach and also worth exploring if you’re in the area. The 2,000 year-old manmade caves are considered one of the most important industrial sites in the British Isles and is also a significant bat hibernaculum.
This year, the village’s famous Regatta will take place in mid-August(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
Guided tours of the cave are available throughout the year and the entrance fee for adults is £13. The caves also host a range of events, including a series known as ‘Concert in the Caves’ as well as wedding and vow renewals.
There are a few other local festivals and events that travellers may want to consider planning their visit around. One of the most famous annual festivals in the village is the Beer Regatta, which is over 100 years old.
The week-long event will feature rowing, sailing and motorboat tournaments as well as an itinerary of family-friendly and fundraising activities. The 2025 Beer Regatta will take place from Saturday, August 9 to Friday, August 15, with the main Regatta Day scheduled for Thursday, August 14.
The Beer Blues Festival is another event to add to your calendar. For a full weekend in October, the village will be celebrating the best of blues with live performances accompanied by delicious local food. The 2025 Blues festival will take place from October 10 to October 12 with full weekend tickets available for £40.
This market town in Northumberland may seem modest but it is home to an abundance of historical monuments – offering a glimpse into the Hadrian era as well as views of the surrounding countryside
Hexham is well known for its proximity to Hadrian’s Wall and its plentiful walking trails(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Choosing the perfect staycation destination can be tricky, especially with everyone vying for the same tried-and-true hotspots. But if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds in the Cotswolds and Cornwall and enjoy a bit more tranquillity, then Northumberland may be worth exploring.
Hexham in Northumberland is a small market town that has recently been highlighted as a top British staycation destination by the travel blog The Crazy Tourist. Located just 25 miles from Newcastle, the town attracts a modest 120,000 visitors annually but is rich in historic landmarks and natural beauty.
Situated between the Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines National Landscape, there is certainly no shortage of countryside to traverse. The town is also home to a wealth of parks including the Sele and the Hexham House and abbey grounds.
That said, no proper introduction to Hexham can forgo mention of the famous Hexham Abbey. Originally built in 674AD with materials repurposed from Roman ruins, the abbey was later rebuilt in the 13th century.
Today, locals can still buy produce from stallholders at the 18th-century Shambles in the Hexham marketplace.(Image: Getty Images)
Today, the Hexham Abbey retains elements of its Roman past with pagan dedications and has restored much of its medieval Priory Buildings. The Abbey long remains one of the earliest seats of Christianity in England.
History buffs will also be delighted to know that Hadrian’s Wall is just a short drive from the town’s centre. Stretching 73 miles from coast to coast, Hadrian’s Wall was built to serve as the north-western frontier of the Roman empire.
Construction of the Wall began in 122AD by order of emperor Hadrian and was guarded by regiments of 500 to 1,000 infantry and cavalry men. Today, the Hadrian’s Wall Path allows travellers to follow directly in the footsteps of Roman soldiers.
In fact, there are a bounty of different trails for visitors to explore given the Wall’s unique positioning across two of England’s most picturesque counties. Following the popular Birdoswald Roman trail will set visitors along a path set against the River Irthing and down the longest continuous stretch of the Wall.
Another choice path is the Housesteads Roman trail, which covers some of the most peaceful parts of the Northumberland National Park. This particular trail also provides access to Walltown Crags – the majestic countryside area – and the Dark Sky Discovery Site of Cawfields.
One final historic landmark that must be highlighted is the Hexham Old Gaol, which is England’s oldest purpose-built prison. Constructed in 1333, the medieval prison served as a detention site for nearly half a millennium, where inmates were required to fund their own sustenance and attire.
The historic Hexham Abbey and Hadrian’s Wall are only two of the many landmarks that define the area(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you are wondering about the more contemporary offerings of the market town, be assured there are plenty. For one, the Hexham Racecourse is the only racecourse in Northumberland and considered one of the most scenic in the country.
Another modern marvel is the Sill National Landscape Discovery Centre. The contemporary glass building is a community hub and learning centre, hosting an array of exhibits throughout the year. The centre also offers impressive views of the Northumberland National Park.
Finally, the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre – located opposite the Hexham Abbey – is a draw for the best international and national artists. The Victorian building boasts a 350-seat theatre to watch dancers, musicians and dramatic artists and is also home to two art galleries.
Jos Buttler’s 97 not out led Gujarat Titans to an impressive seven-wicket victory against Delhi Capitals and took them to the top of the Indian Premier League table.
Former England captain Buttler came in during the second over and expertly marshalled a chase of 204 in sapping heat in Ahmedabad.
He was on 97 at the start of the final over but, with 10 runs needed off Australia quick Mitchell Starc, Rahul Tewatia immediately hit a six and a four to secure victory with four balls to spare.
That denied Buttler, who hit 11 fours and four sixes, an eighth IPL century but he still embraced his batting partner with a beaming smile.
Buttler gave up the white-ball captaincy when England were knocked out of the Champions Trophy in February but has responded with a good run of form in the IPL, with this his third fifty in seven innings.
He put on 60 with opener Sai Sudharsan, who became the tournament’s highest run-scorer by scoring 36.
The Titans were 74-2 when Sudharsan holed out at deep mid-wicket but Buttler soon hit five consecutive fours in one Starc over to swing the match in his side’s favour.
He put on 119 with West Indies international Sherfane Rutherford, who was caught at long-off for 43 at the end of the penultimate over.
Wicketkeeper Buttler also took a superb, diving catch in Delhi’s 203-8 to dismiss Vipraj Nigam.
Delhi, who were leading the standings until the defeat, reached their total thanks to contributions of 39 from Axar Patel, 37 from Ashutosh Sharma, plus 31 from both Tristan Stubbs and Karun Nair 31, but Gujarat did well to limit the damage.
Seamer Prasidh Krishna took 4-41, making him the tournament’s leading wicket-taker.
