TRAVEL

There are stone bunkers shrouded in the mist on the hillside to my right, just shy of the ridgeline marking the Albanian-Kosovo border. To my left, the view is not just clear but startlingly beautiful.

I’m able to see back down to the tiny mountain hamlet of Gacaferi, where I’d slept the previous night, to look across the deep greenery of Deçan Gorge beyond, over dense pine forests and grasslands that pop with pink and yellow wildflowers, and gaze all the way to the 2,461m summit of Çfërla and the rugged peaks of western Kosovo’s Accursed mountains.

We are on stage nine of the Via Dinarica Kosovo, a 75-mile, 13-stage hiking trail through this storied country. The route links up to the Via Dinarica, a Balkan trail that runs from Slovenia through to Albania. The Kosovo section opened in 2015, but was recently remapped and relaunched as part of a three-year, £1.2m project funded by the Italian agency AICS.

There was a Yugoslav barracks in Gacaferi during the Kosovo war – the brutal conflict between the Kosovo Liberation Army (known locally as the UÇK) and Slobodan Milošević’s Yugoslavia, which ended with an aerial Nato bombing campaign against Yugoslavia in 1999. UÇK fighters used to launch surprise attacks over the border ridge here, and arms were smuggled into Kosovo for use by liberation fighters.

The barracks is long gone. Today, the handful of locals in Gacaferi fly red Albanian flags outside their houses alongside Kosovo blue. They tend to their sheep and warmly welcome hikers, who trade travel stories while feasting on burek and Rugova cheese in the scenic guesthouse.

“I wish the stones here could talk,” says Uta Ibrahimi, my mountain guide. Uta is the founder of Butterfly Outdoor Adventure, and was an integral part of the Via Dinarica Kosovo project. She also happens to be the first person from Kosovo to have climbed Mount Everest, having done so in 2017. And on 10 May 2025, when she stood on the 8,586-metre summit of Kanchenjunga in the Himalayas, Ibrahimi became the first woman from the Balkans to have climbed all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre mountains. Uta returned to a hero’s welcome at Pristina airport. “I did it for myself, but also for my country,” Uta says. “Not just for the Himalayan views.”

I had arrived in the capital of Pristina some days earlier. I walked past statues of Bill Clinton and Bob Dole; past new cathedrals and centuries-old mosques. Brilliant, bizarre brutalist architecture draws the gaze here – most notably the National Library of Kosovo, formed of a cluster of exposed concrete blocks, caged in metal and topped by domes.

The Via Dinarica connects the municipalities of Peja, Deçan and Junik in western Kosovo. To start our adventure – hiking a 40-mile stint of the Via Dinarica – we drove to the city of Peja, behind which the Accursed mountains rise like fortress walls.

We began on stage three, with sunny alpine views and green slopes rising to prominent peaks. Red and white waymarkers guided us up narrow trails to the 2,403-metre Hajla peak, on the border of Kosovo and Montenegro. On one side, the ridgeline slopes sharply down to the Balkan pines of Kosovo and across green valleys to the mountains of Albania. On the other side, there is a near vertical drop down to Montenegro, via rugged, exposed limestone cliff.

I ate spinach burek for lunch on the summit of Hajla, sitting next to fuzzy, star-shaped edelweiss flowers, while alpine choughs circled above. We slept at ERA Lodge, a homely wooden mountain cabin run by Fatos Lajçi, a passionate conservationist. “Everything that’s in Europe, we have here,” he said; brown bears, wild boars, wolves and even the endangered Balkan lynx. This lynx is at serious risk of extinction, but has on occasion wandered by Lajçi’s camera traps.

As we left the next morning, a shepherd sang songs of love and lost heroes to his flock, and we rejoined the Via Dinarica on a freshly built section of trail. Descending into a meadow, we were engulfed in blueberry bushes; our boots brushing against wild strawberries and carrots.

It was not until a few days later, when we reached Kulla Guesthouse in Milishevc, a building styled like an old stone tower, that we met another hiker. Here, we gorged on köfte, washed down with rakı, “for digestion”.

The border with Montenegro soon became the border with Albania. We walked by memorials to fallen UÇK soldiers. Hard rain and mist clouded the view, but limestone monoliths poked through and wildflowers defied the clouds with sprinkles of colour. By the time we arrived in Gacaferi, the sun was shining on the tractors and goats of this remote hamlet.

In the evenings there was time for me to bug Uta for stories. She is full of tales; of crampons received as Valentine’s gifts; of poles perilously dropped at 8,000 metres; of loved ones lost on mountain faces, or to war; of emotional summit days and ecstatic nights dancing at festivals.

Ibrahimi was 15 years old when war hit, but she speaks with a contagious positivity. “We had to stay inside for three months of bombing, and you never knew if it was the last day of your life,” she says. “We had to jump walls to run away from the police. That whole idea, of waiting for that moment they will come – and who knows what they will do to you – it just made us stronger and more willing to live. Then when you are free, you do not see any limits.”

From Gacaferi, we set our sights on the 2,656-metre Gjeravica. It is a hulking peak surrounded by heart-shaped mountain lakes and patches of snow. This side of the Accursed mountains is more dramatic than the border with Montenegro, the gentle green replaced by fierce grey. Above the 2,400-metre mark, we hike on limestone slabs bright with lichen. On the summit, a Kosovo flag flies above a trig point bearing the double-headed eagle of Albania. There is a metal marker with a UÇK head, and a view over Kosovo’s flatland. Our descent is remarkably pretty, running along the secluded Gjeravica Lake, through fields of blueberry bushes, on to grassland peppered with yellow flowers.

There is a soft beauty to this country; in the mint you smell in the meadows, in the sound of the whinchats on the hills, in the fluff of the edelweiss flowers on high ridges, and in the warmth of the guesthouses, where the burek is plentiful and the coffee strong.

“People want somewhere quiet, super-wild, without any roads,” says Uta. “It’s here to explore.”

The trip was provided by NaturKosovo. A five-day trip on the Via Dinarica Kosovo with Butterfly Outdoor Adventure costs €590, or a nine-day adventure from €990, including transfers, accommodation and meals. The Via Dinarica Kosovo project is being implemented by Volontari nel Mondo RTM and CELIM in collaboration with Utalaya Foundation, Club Alpino Italiano, AITR, CNSAS and AICS

A WOMAN has been charged after two children were killed in a horrific hit-and-run.

Roman Casselden, 16, and nine-year-old Darcie Casselden tragically died after a privately owned e-scooter they were riding on collided with a car in Pitsea, Essex, on February 1.

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Deimante Ziobryte, 21, appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, August 28, charged with failing to stop at the scene of a collision.

Essex Police said Ms Ziobryte remains on bail in connection with other driving offences, with an investigation ongoing into these.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

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A restaurant in Spain has shared a photo of a receipt with a huge €63,000 (£55,000) bill racked up on it – and people are desperate to know who could have paid it

A Spanish restaurant has shared of a receipt showing an eye-watering €63,000 (£55,000) bill, that a group of tourists unbelievably walked away from.

The eatery teased that the party might have featured a well-known American sporting celebrity. Situated in Palmanova, Majorca, the waterfront establishment appealed on social media: “Whose bill is this? Tag them below, please – we’d like to talk..”

Sharp-eyed observers noticed that a massive chunk of the total was splashed on “various fish”. With such an astronomical sum, punters in the replies have been desperately attempting to identify who could possibly fork out this much at a restaurant.

A fierce discussion has erupted in the comments section as people scramble to determine who would blow this kind of cash at the venue.

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The establishment later revealed that 18 guests were accommodated at the table and suggested the party might have featured a well-known American sporting celebrity, according to Majorca Daily Bulletin.

The mystery diners didn’t just splash out on grub but also shelled out a fortune on premium beverages.

Another entry on the receipt shows valet parking, which forms part of the venue’s upmarket offerings.

The Instagram post exploded online with countless users desperate to uncover the identity of the enigmatic customer, reports the Express.

It has now become the hottest topic across Majorca as residents attempt to crack who splashed out on one of the island’s priciest ever dinners.

Majorca stands as one of the biggest islands in the Balearics and serves as a beloved getaway destination. The island boasts crystal clear waters and breathtaking beaches, making it a must-visit destination that draws in two million Brits per year.

It’s a six-hour direct flight from the UK, and each of the ten islands that make up the archipelago has a different and distinct feel – perfect for those looking for year-round sunshine

The stunning nation of Cape Verde is fast becoming a favourite among Brits seeking year-round sunshine.

For those looking to change their annual holiday destination in Spain, Italy or France, you might want to have a look at this place. Spain has long been a top pick for those looking to escape the unpredictable British weather, but now more holidaymakers are venturing further afield to Africa’s Cape Verde.

Just a six-hour direct flight from the UK, Cape Verde’s ten islands offer constant sunshine, with temperatures seldom dipping below 21C, making it an ideal winter sun destination. Did anyone say a quick weekend trip?

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Each island in this Atlantic archipelago boasts its own unique charm and character. With an abundance of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, you’ll be spoilt for choice, reports the Express.

With a culture influenced by Portugal and African traditions, Cape Verde is the perfect place as it offers an all-year round exquisite weather where visitors can enjoy the beach and partake in watersports like windsurfing and outdoor activities like hiking.

Cape Verde is a member state of the African Union. But interestingly, the official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese. Nonetheless, Creole is also used in conversation, and visitors will hear it throughout their stay.

Top picks include Santa Maria Beach and Ponta Preta on Sal, Praia de Chaves on Boa Vista, and Laginha beach in Mindelo, on São Vicente. Beyond the beaches, there’s fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities, with whales, dolphins and turtles often seen in the crystal-clear waters.

READ MORE: Ryanair major update as passengers worry over new boarding passes

While Cape Verde is a great year-round destination, do note that the rainy season falls between July and October. In November, expect daily maximum temperatures around 29C and minimums averaging at 23C.

According to AMAN (Alliance of Mediterranean News Agencies), Cape Verde welcomed over a million visitors in 2023, setting a historical record.

For those who love a good hike, the islands are crisscrossed with walking trails through magnificent mountains and towering volcanoes. Santo Antão, São Nicolau and Fogo are touted as the best islands for walkers.

So, if you’re looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life without going to the typical holiday destinations, Cape Verde is the place for you. For families, friends, and even for a solo trip.

Direct flights are available from London to Cape Verde on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Airlines such as easyJet offer direct flights from London Gatwick, with prices starting at £120 depending on the season and time of purchase.

A BRAZILIAN model has revealed how a hidden tumour made her shoot up to almost seven feet tall – and how her shorter partner won her over.

Elisane Silva, 26, from Salinopolis, stands at a staggering six foot eight and towers over her five-foot-four husband, Francinaldo Da Silva Carvalho, 31.

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But she admitted their nearly two-foot height gap doesn’t faze them – in fact, he was the one to win her over.

Elisane said: “Since I was 10 years old, I always noticed that there wasn’t something quite right as I was the only one in my family and class that stood at a staggering five feet nine inches.”

Her parents, Ana Maria Ramos and Luiz Jorge, were left stunned.

“My mother is only five feet four inches and my father is just five feet seven inches, so it was a shock to our entire family when I was the tallest member at so young,” she explained.

By age 10, Elisane was suffering painful pressure in her bones and head as she continued to grow at an alarming rate.

A doctor recommended tests, but her family couldn’t afford them.

Then a national TV network stepped in, offering to cover her medical bills if she told her story on air.

“A national television network approached my family after hearing my story, and in 2010, we flew to Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I appeared on national television and had all my tests done for free on behalf of the network,” she recalled.

“Although this was embarrassing, I was just glad to finally have an answer and to stop the pain that I was going through as a result of my height.”

Doctors discovered a benign tumour on her pituitary gland, which had triggered an overproduction of growth hormone – a condition known as gigantism.

But while Elisane had answers, school became unbearable.

Classmates bullied her mercilessly, calling her “tower” and “giant.”

“I remember locking myself up at home as I felt so sick with the hurtful comments and words people were constantly saying to me,” she said.

“I decided to give up and it was the hardest decision I have ever had to make, as I wanted to continue studying, but I knew that I wouldn’t last any longer in that environment.

“At the time, I was 17 years old, so my parents didn’t have much to say on the matter and I was really lost about where to go next in life.”

Everything changed when she met Francinaldo in 2011.

“I fell for him right there and then, as he was the first person to treat me like a human being and not some freak of nature,” she said.

“Although there is an obvious height difference, we don’t see it as an issue as we love each other just the way we are and wouldn’t want anything to change.”

The couple got engaged quickly and tied the knot in September 2015. They later welcomed their son, Angelo, now three.

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“We used to get comments from people in the street when we were walking together, I’m no longer the center of attention now we have our beautiful son,” Elisane said.

Angelo is already three foot three, but Elisane doesn’t believe he’ll inherit her towering stature.

“I don’t believe he will grow to be as tall as me because I don’t think my condition is hereditary,” she explained.

“I think he will grow up to be average height – but even if not, he should embrace the unique asset he has been given.”

After years of shame, Elisane now embraces her frame and is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a professional model.

“Although I haven’t been successful just yet, I usually go out and take professional photos of myself and add it to my portfolio to pass on to agencies,” she said.

“Despite no agencies picking up on them yet, these photo sessions have helped my levels of confidence immensely and I have started to love myself for who I am.”

While she’s been branded the “tallest woman in Brazil” online, Elisane says it’s not an official title – though she’s learned to wear the label with pride.

“I have learned to love myself for my unique height, as there’s no one quite like me and I think that’s rather special,” she said.

“I have found a good man to love, have a wonderful son, a beautiful family, and I am grateful that God has taught me to overcome these obstacles in life.

“Don’t let people’s evil comments interfere with your life, as it’s not for them to judge you based on how you look or who you love – stay true to yourself and you’ll live happily.”

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A TWO-year-old boy was killed as his parents walked him back from the beach, an inquest heard.

Sonny Macdonald was in his pushchair, just minutes away from home, when a car crashed into the family at around 8.15pm on August 16.

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Tragedy struck as the vehicle lost control and smashed through a metal barrier in Gorrell Tank car park, Whitstable, Kent.

Sonny was pronounced dead at the scene, while his parents were rushed to hospital with serious injuries.

An inquest into the two-year-old’s death was opened at Oakwood House in Maidstone on Friday.

Coroner Katrina Hepburn said: “His mother and father witnessed his death, which occurred at approximately 8.24pm.

“[They] were walking back from Whitstable beach from the harbour with Sonny, who was in a pushchair.”

She said the car turned into Cromwell Road, “lost control” and “drove into the family”, as reported by Kent Online.

“The vehicle continued through a metal barrier down onto a car park below, around a six-foot drop, taking Sonny with it,” the coroner added.

Due to an ongoing police investigation, the inquest was adjourned.

Kent Police arrested a man in his 20s at the scene of the horror, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He has been bailed while investigations are ongoing.

Floral tributes and cuddly toys were left at the scene in wake of the tragedy.

Canterbury and Whitstable MP Rosie Duffield said at the time: “I was shocked and very saddened to hear about the horrific incident in Whitstable, and I cannot begin to imagine what the family of the little boy who lost his life must be going through.

“My thoughts are with them and all caught up in this awful tragedy.

”Thank you to our excellent emergency services and all who were there to help, I hope the Police are able to carry out their investigations swiftly and provide some answers about what happened.

“I would urge anyone who may have been nearby to contact Kent Police in case you may have picked up important evidence on your dashcam, or witnessed something that may turn out to be significant.”

Witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, should call 01622 798538 or email [email protected], quoting reference BN/AL/058/25.

Relevant CCTV and dashcam footage can be uploaded via the online portal.

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OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégée Maggie Innes.

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

♈ ARIES

March 21 to April 20

Life and love ambitions may change, and challenge you more, but you can cope with this.

Your ability to create order out of chaos is on the increase.

So it’s a perfect moment to tackle money troubles, and emotional or family tangles.

Love may seem lukewarm to you today, but deep down it’s heating up.

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♉ TAURUS

April 21 to May 21

You’re so driven and determined, now your adventure levels increase to match this.

You’re ready to try new places and meet new people.

This helps you gel with an unlikely love interest, rather than simply just moving on.

If you’re already in love, there’s so much you still have to discover about each other.

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

♊ GEMINI

May 22 to June 21

You’re ready to change, and integrate your past into your future. As a key name comes back into your life, you make a start.

The moon activates your most passionate self, and attraction levels are off the scale.

Just one word, or one look, can be all you need.

If you’re attached, stop secrets in their tracks ASAP.

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

♋ CANCER

June 22 to July 22

A time of playing ball with other’s demands and wishes is ending. You can speak up and set out your own views.

But try to come up with constructive alternatives, instead of criticising.

Mars may make emotions unstable, but in love this can be a good thing.

You’ve been so patient, now it’s time to be assertive.

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

♌ LEO

July 23 to August 23

Work routines and relationships are in your zodiac frame and you can be the leader of a major programme of change.

But do check in to see the future you envisage is the same as everyone else’s.

In love terms, Venus is ambitious and full of ideas, and a big shared occasion can turn into a celebration.

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

♍ VIRGO

August 24 to September 22

Planet forces focus on your creative zone, as genius ideas burst out and you see ways to become essential.

Your star skill is making connections, and transforming two minds into one.

Passion is open to adventure, so do ask that question – a partner may surprise you.

New love wears camouflage.

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

♎ LIBRA

September 23 to October 23

You have tried so many ways to improve a family or friendship atmosphere.

Now your chart shows it may be time to move on.

But it’s your moment to rate your own needs highest.

Your passion profile is super-sensual, you know how to enchant any partner – longtime, or just recently introduced.

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

♏ SCORPIO

October 24 to November 22

Your communication style is bolder and more unpredictable as the moon gets involved.

So, waiting can be over and you are ready to ask for what you know should be yours.

Events or products in three parts bring you luck, and your love-zone overflows with togetherness.

No more excuses – get that cash “yes”.

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

♐ SAGITTARIUS

November 23 to December 21

Making money is less important today than understanding it.

So take the time to work out why you’ve got to where you are, and how you can make the right changes.

As soon as you see your strength, use it.

In love, a shared food or mood shift works better than a solo one – make sure you are on board.

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

♑ CAPRICORN

December 22 to January 20

Your sign is bursting with star potential, so you may react in unexpected ways.

And dive deeply into your authentic self.

Some mood swings may be an element of this, but do believe you are strong enough to survive these, because you are.

Showing love – and loyalty – works better than merely talking about it.

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

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♒ AQUARIUS

January 21 to February 18

Those secret parts you keep hidden are ready to be shared even though you may not feel prepared.

An ability to go with the flow is strong in your chart for the next while, and the real you is the right you.

Love is more future-forward and a shared address is coming closer.

Luck links to a pattern of triangles.

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

♓ PISCES

February 19 to March 20

Surrounding yourself with the right people unlocks extra success – and you have a perceptive chart to help you to see who’s reliable and who’s just along for the ride.

This time, you can take action.

Love-wise, you’re connecting in new ways, on new levels. Let yourself enjoy this period of passion plenty.

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

THE real reason Pete Wicks avoided Olivia Attwood’s TV launch after their wild holiday has been revealed – and it’s not what you think. 

Last night Olivia, 34, was supported by husband Bradley Dack at a party celebrating series two of Bad Boyfriends. 

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Pete, 36, was absent from the bash after it was reported Brad, 31, was left fuming over his wife’s trip with the former Towie star. 

But The Sun can reveal the real reason Pete was forced to skip the party. 

A spokesman for Pete confirmed: “Pete had to travel up north to film for his TV series.

“He goes weekly and has been for months. There is a Dogs Trust Centre there and he was staying overnight on Monday to film all day today.”

Pete presents the Dogs Trust documentary For Dogs’ Sake which airs on channel U&W. 

Former Towie star Pete has opened up about going “off radar” during the trip, which Olivia has described as “feral”. 

Speaking on their Sunday Roast Reheated podcast, he said: “Do you know what I think it’s to do with?

“Obviously we were out there working for a couple of days and then we had a couple of days off.

“It was… the people we were with made it such an amazing trip but also, we don’t get a lot of time off, and it was nice to go off radar a little bit and just be present in the moment with the people we were with.”

He added: “Every day was just f****** great.”

During the episode, Olivia said: “People wanted to know what my most feral moment was.”

Pete quipped: “This podcast isn’t long enough to go through them all.”

Olivia continued: “I’m not going to lie, it was very feral. There’s a lot that happened that we can’t even discuss on this podcast.”

Confessing their holiday was so wild that she ran out of clothes and was forced to buy a dress from a local store for their final night, Olivia added: “I went with six hats and I returned with one.”

LOCK, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels star Jason Flemyng has been banned from driving after being caught speeding — at 24mph.

The 58-year-old was pinged in a 20mph zone in his Kia Sorento.

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It was the fourth time Flemyng had been caught speeding in the past year.

He already had 12 points on his licence but had not been banned because of a justice system administrative error.

The actor admitted speeding near his home in Clapham, South West London, on December 5.

He was banned for six months and fined £775.

He told Lavender Hill JPs: “I don’t want to waste the court’s time. I accept what has happened.”

Asked whether he wanted to claim exceptional hardship, the actor, wearing a black suit, said: “Well, my work and what I do for a living, and my charity work, all depend on me driving.

“Maybe I should have thought about that before I drove 24mph in a 20mph zone.”

Flemyng played Tom in Guy Ritchie’s Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and has appeared in Snatch and From Hell with Johnny Depp.

In 2009, the actor joined the cast of the ITV science fiction cult drama series Primeval during its third series, as maverick ex-policeman Danny Quinn and he reprised the role in 2011.

He has been married to actress and producer Elly Fairman since 2007, best known for Blitz, and has also starred in BBC drama series Casualty.

A KILLER gunman has been jailed after shooting a prison officer dead. 

Elias Morgan, 35, murdered Lenny Scott after the prison guard exposed his affair with a female officer.

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Morgan attacked Lenny, 33, outside of a gym in on February 8, 2024.

Lenny, a father of three, worked at HMP Altcourse and had previously confiscated Morgan’s phone while he was incarcerated.

Upon taking the phone, he discovered that Morgan has having an affair with a prison guard – prompting the 35-year-old to begin plotting his murder. 

Lenny was shot six times by Morgan and was left for dead. 

Today, Morgan was jailed for life with a minimum term of 45 years. 

The terrifying shooting was caught on film, by a CCTV camera near to the gym. 

In the video, Lenny can be seen leaving the building with four others while a sinister man – dressed in a high-vis jacket – approaches. 

The gunman can be seen hiding behind a car, before calmly raising his gun and opening fire. 

Six shots can be heard before the shooter hops onto an electric bike and heads for a getaway van. 

Morgan was found guilty of murder, following a lengthy trial at Preston Crown Court. 

He will be spending 45 years behind bars without parole

Meanwhile, his friend Anthony Cleary, 29, was found not guilty of murder and manslaughter in court.

Jurors heard that Morgan had been having an affair with prison officer Sarah Williams and that he had offered Lenny £1,500 to “lose” the phone which contained evidence of the affair. 

Four years later, after Morgan left prison

After that, Morgan began issuing “powerfully made” threats to stop the information getting out. 

At the time, Morgan allegedly said: “I’ll bide my time, but I promise I will get you.”

Four days after the phone was seized, Lenny phoned 101 to tell police that a car had been “sat outside my house all weekend”. 

When asked by the operator about who was threatening him, Lenny replied: “Elias Morgan. He’s described my family and me to a tee, described my house.”

After Morgan was found guilty of killing Lenny, Wendy Logan – deputy head of CPS North West’s complex casework unit – described the shooter as “cold-blooded” and evil.

She said: “Lenny Scott was a devoted father who had bravely upheld his duty when working as a prison officer by reporting an illicit phone he found in Elias Morgan’s cell in 2020.

“He did so in the face of attempts at bribery and also threats and intimidation by Morgan – and his commitment to public service will not be forgotten.

“Morgan – driven by revenge and believing he was above the law – carried out a cold-blooded murder.

“We were determined to deliver justice and see Morgan brought to book for his evil crime – and our case set out in clear terms how he planned and carried out his callous act.

“Our thoughts remain with Lenny’s family – particularly his three young children – and all those who cared for him as they deal with his loss.”

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Georgia Fowkes is a travel advisor who spends a lot of time in the UK and says there is one beach that is so special it gives her ‘goosebumps every single time’

A travel adviser has revealed the one UK beach that gives her goosebumps every time she visits. Georgia Fowkes, a travel advisor for Altezza Travel, which boasts a 5/5 rating on TripAdvisor with over 2,000 reviews, is an American based in Pittsburgh who frequently travels the globe and spends ample time with family in the UK.

She has declared Bamburgh beach in Northumberland as her personal favourite. “Bamburgh is the raw North in its purest form: endless sand with a castle rising straight out of the dunes”, she says. “You walk the shoreline and the dark fortress walls reflect in the wet sand, the sea stretching out like the castle’s extension.

“For me, Bamburgh is the best beach in Britain because it ties the vastness of the ocean to the weight of history. This isn’t just a holiday sea – it roars the same way it did centuries ago, when the castle walls faced the same waves I’m watching now. Standing there gives me goosebumps every single time.”

While Bamburgh Beach isn’t the only UK beach where a castle majestically overlooks the sea below, with other examples including Llansteffan and Harlech in Wales, as well as Tintagel in Cornwall, it still stands out as a unique feature of the UK coastline, boasting pristine sand, drifting sand dunes, and a magnificent view of the castle from almost every angle, reports the Express.

Bamburgh has been crowned the UK’s top seaside spot for five consecutive years, earning five-star reviews for its beach, seafront, scenery, and tranquil atmosphere.

One visitor to Bamburgh shared their love for the place with Which?, saying: “It’s a gem. The beaches are sandy, clean, and stretch for miles. There are walks galore, the food on offer is top-notch, the feel is of a time gone by, and there’s enough history to delve into to last several holidays.”

The castle, which boasts a history spanning 3,000 years, is now in the hands of Francis and Claire Watson-Armstrong.

“There is nowhere like Bamburgh. You can see dolphins, the sunsets, the sunrises. You just stand there and breathe in – the smell of the sea. It is unique. As it has been over the centuries, there is something about the soul of the place,” she expressed.

Despite the unpredictable British weather on the harsh North Sea coast, Bamburgh is increasingly becoming a worldwide attraction, drawing tourists from across the globe. It offers several dining and drinking options, including a seafood shack named Creel and Reel, the Victoria Hotel pub, and the Potted Lobster restaurant.

Georgia also mentioned Holkham beach in Norfolk as another favourite spot. She described: “Holkham is cinematic in scale. Dunes and a flat sweep of sand run to the horizon, so far you lose all sense of boundaries.

“It’s no surprise filmmakers chose it for Pride and Prejudice and Shakespeare in Love – standing here, you see why: the landscape itself looks like a film still. I’d call it England’s best beach because it turns a simple walk into a moment you want to hold on to. Empty yet majestic, it’s where sea, sky, and infinite sand shrink you down – but make you feel lucky to be part of the vast picture.”

The British Embassy in Cairo is currently closed and this will be the case for the ‘foreseeable future’, the UK Foreign Office has warned. Here is all you need to know

Brits planning a trip to Egypt have been given updated travel guidance by the Foreign Office due to alterations at the British Embassy in Cairo.

The Embassy is not currently open, however, consular support remains accessible. Following the removal of security barriers outside the premises on August 31, the Embassy has temporarily shut its doors while the situation is being ‘reviewed’.

Despite the closure, emergency help is still available for travellers who can call 0020 2 2791 6000 if they require assistance. The Foreign Office released a statement on their Egypt travel advice page, stating: “On Sunday 31 August security barriers outside the British Embassy in Cairo were removed by the Egyptian authorities.

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“The main Embassy building will be closed while the impact of these changes is reviewed. Emergency consular assistance remains available by calling 0020 2 2791 6000. If you have a pre-booked appointment at the Embassy please call 0020 2 2791 6000 in advance for advice on how to access the Embassy compound.”

The decision to remove the security barriers came amidst a diplomatic dispute sparked by the detention of an activist, as reported by BBC News. Daily News Egypt has reported that the incident involved an Egyptian activist who was detained after a confrontation with protesters outside the Egyptian embassy in London last week, but he has since been released by British officials.

In response to the recent arrest, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty is said to have contacted the UK’s National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell last week seeking an explanation.

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Abdelatty has previously stated that Egypt reserves the “right to respond and reciprocity” towards nations that do not adequately protect Egyptian embassies as per the Vienna Convention.

The initial detention prompted a “strong diplomatic response from Cairo”, with some calling for the removal of security barriers around the British embassy in Cairo.

The UK government remains in discussions with Egyptian officials regarding the security at the British embassy in Cairo, according to BBC News. Both the British and American embassies in Cairo have been fortified with substantial security barriers for many years.

According to the latest numbers, Egypt welcomed 15.7 million tourists in 2024, an increase of 800,000 compared to the previous year. The country also aims to welcome 30 million annual visitors by 2030, with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which will welcome visitors from around the world.

The Mediterranean island is a perfect holiday destination for many reasons – and we don’t just mean the beaches

The Mediterranean island of Sardinia, boasting a perfect mix of scorching weather, delectable cuisine, rich history, city life and stunning beaches, is surprisingly not even in the top ten islands most frequented by British holidaymakers. This list is dominated by Spanish destinations like Tenerife, Majorca and Lanzarote, as well as Greek islands such as Santorini, Corfu and Rhodes, reports the Express.

However, those in the know would argue that this Mediterranean gem outshines them all. One of its major attractions is the staggering number of gorgeous beaches dotted along the coast every few miles.

Sardinia, nestled halfway between the coasts of Italy and Spain in the Med, is far less popular and less well-known than the tourist hotspots of Spain and Greece. These locations are now so overrun with tourists each year that locals are pushing back against over-tourism.

Sardinia is an ideal holiday destination for numerous reasons: it’s a vast island, offering plenty of space, meaning you’re not forced to cram into one or two overcrowded tourist spots.

It boasts a large city, Cagliari, on its southern tip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of city life, complete with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. At the opposite end of the island lies Alghero, a reasonably large town also teeming with a lively dining scene.

The island is a haven of luxury, with its north-eastern shore attracting well-heeled European tourists to Porto Cervo. Here, you can spend your time admiring the heavily-guarded yachts and guessing their owners.

As expected from any Italian destination, the food scene is sensational with a plethora of dining options. Despite being less touristy than Majorca, many of Sardinia’s restaurants cater mainly for locals, ensuring high-quality cuisine.

But perhaps the jewel in Sardinia’s crown is the extraordinary number of stunning beaches. Each one could be considered a national treasure if located in another European country.

In fact, two Sardinian beaches made it onto a recent list of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches, with one securing second place.

The best beaches in Sardinia

Choosing the “best” beaches in Sardinia is almost impossible due to the sheer number of worthy contenders scattered around the island. Here are just a few suggestions, but you may discover your own favourites through personal exploration.

Besides the main island, the Maddalena archipelago, a group of islands off Sardinia’s north coast, also boasts a collection of beautiful beaches.

1. Cala Mariolu
2. Siaggia della Pelosa
3. Spiaggia del Pirata
4. Spiaggia Rena Bianca
5. Cala Corsara, La Maddalena

Sardinia can, naturally, become crowded during the peak months of July and August, when numerous Italians take their own holidays there. Costa Smeralda ranks amongst the most sought-after destinations. It’s also rather a celebrity magnet and the part of the island where affluence is most apparent.

If you fancy some celebrity-spotting, this is certainly the spot to visit, with Spiagga del Principe being the top beach to potentially glimpse a Hollywood star, music mogul or business leader. Lonely Planet said: ” A number of beautiful coves necklace the fabulous swoop of coastline where Gallura’s wind-whipped granite mountains tumble down to fjordlike inlets in the emerald sea.

“One of the finest is the Spiaggia del Principe, a stunning crescent of pale sand snuggled among low cliffs named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, who has given it his seal of approval.”

Where to stay in Sardinia

Where you decide to base yourself in Sardinia hinges on the type of break you’re after. Cagliari stands as the island’s biggest population centre, a thriving city offering an ideal blend of historical and contemporary elements.

It isn’t particularly a tourist hub, so the eateries here serve primarily Italians, ensuring you can trust their standard.

Even Cagliari boasts a gorgeous beach of its own, the enormous Poetto, just a brief journey from the city centre, where locals escape whenever possible. At the other end of the island, you’ll find Alghero, a cosy town boasting several beaches and nearby attractions, including stunning country villages.

From here, you can hop on a boat to Neptune’s Cave, a breath-taking seafront cavern where stalactites dangle above the water.

On the east coast, you’ll discover the luxury hotspots of Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda, a playground for the rich and famous. If rubbing shoulders with high society isn’t your cup of tea just yet, then Cannigione, a modest small town nearby, offers plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars.

Similarly, if you’re after a location that’s close to the city but also boasts a good selection of beaches, give Villasimius in the south a go. It’s just a short drive from Cagliari.

Where to eat in Sardinia

The choices are virtually limitless, with all the major towns and cities offering an array of authentic options that cater more to Italians than tourists.

But one dining experience you simply can’t miss is the agriturismo. This Italian concept sees traditional farms adapt to accommodate visitors looking to eat or stay (or both). The menus are extensive and fantastic, leaving you stuffed with the finest locally-produced food. There’s nothing quite like it.

How to get to Sardinia

Sardinia’s main airports are located at Cagliari on the south coast and Olbia on the north-eastern coast. Regular flights to either are available from UK airports.

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Disneyland and Disney World will deny entry to visitors who don’t follow these simple rules, but don’t worry, a TikToker has listed them for you ahead of your visit.

The magic of Disney World and Disneyland is what many dream of experiencing. Known for its beloved characters and xx rides, it’s the place where dreams can come true.

Despite being a space where all visitors are welcomed to be themselves, there are a few rules to follow. If you break any of these rules, you could see yourself walking out towards the exit.

Sophie, a travel influencer with nearly 300,000 TikTok followers, warned those planning a visit to Disneyland Paris that not following the rules could result in you being “shown the exit.”.

“We all know that planning your Disney outfit is an essential part of your trip,” she explained. “They want children to believe in real Disney-trained characters… Not Susan, who’s wearing a full Elsa costume, chain-smoking outside Hyperspace Mountain.”

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The joy about visiting Disney World and Disneyland isn’t only seeing your favourite characters, but also dressing up as them. However, it seems that this is no longer allowed – unless you’re 12 or under.

Disneyland Paris states that they have “the right, at our own discretion and at any given time, to refuse a visitor to wear any type of costume.”

Secondly, Sophie said that “any clothing that drags on the ground” isn’t allowed in the park. It includes “anything with excessive fabric, like capes or long trains”. She then further explained that the reason was a safety risk on rides and impractical for walking in a crowded space.

“You have to wear proper clothing at all times – so no, you can’t walk around in a bikini top even when it’s hot. And shoes are required at all times, so please, keep your dogs under wraps.”

Looking out for the safety and positive experience of their guests, the park has also outlined that clothing is not allowed to “offend, shock or scare children and a family-oriented public.”

Last but not least, the park prohibits the entry of taboo tattoos. The official park rules from the Walt Disney World Official Rules say: “Visible tattoos that could be considered inappropriate, such as those containing objectionable language or designs, are not permitted.”

By following these five simple rules, all guests will have an unforgettable best time. But don’t worry, nothing can stop you from wearing the Mickey Mouse or Mini Mouse iconic ears.

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Planned strikes over pay, shift patterns and fatigue management are set to disrupt the London Underground tube lines from this week, with DLR staff also taking industrial action over ‘pay and conditions’

London is bracing for travel chaos this week as planned strikes over pay, shift patterns and fatigue management are set to disrupt the Underground tube lines.

Transport for London (TfL) confirmed that from Sunday, 7 September until Thursday, 11 September, tube services will be “severely disrupted, with little to no service expected”. There will also be no DLR (Docklands Light Railway) service on Tuesday, 8 September and again on Thursday, 11 September.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, which represents tube drivers, said they were taking industrial action over “pay, fatigue management, extreme shift patterns and a reduction in the working week”. They also confirmed that DLR staff would be striking in a separate dispute “over pay and conditions”.

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In addition to this, bus routes across London were disrupted due to strike action on First Bus services that took place from August 29 to 30, and again from September 1 to 2. Thousands of bus drivers, engineers and controllers at London United and London Transit, both linked to parent company First Bus London, are said to have taken action over “low pay and awful conditions”.

As strikes continue across London this week, we’ve taken a look at what London tube and bus drivers earn. Here’s everything we know…

What do TfL Underground tube drivers earn?

According to The Standard, a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request to TfL revealed that the yearly wage for a TfL tube operator, also known as a driver, in April 2024 was £65,179, while advanced operators pocketed £75,677.

The standard hourly rate for a regular operator was £35.70, while advanced operators took home £39.20 an hour. The overtime rate per hour for a standard driver was disclosed as £44.62 and £49.00 for advanced drivers.

It was also revealed that tube drivers typically work around 35 hours a week over roughly three and a half shifts.

What do TfL bus drivers earn?

TfL bus drivers are reported to earn between £15 and £20 an hour, depending on their experience. This is estimated to earn them around £31,000 to £37,440 annually.

What do Elizabeth line drivers earn?

Drivers on the Elizabeth line are reported to earn significantly more than the average tube driver after they secured a deal in February to boost their salaries to £75,000.

Amid the upcoming planned strikes, TfL confirmed that the Elizabeth line, London Overground, and trams will continue to run as their staff belong to a different union. However, they’ve cautioned that despite the services running as usual, they are expected to be extremely busy.

It’s also crucial to note that the Elizabeth line or the Overground may not stop at certain stations if they are shut due to the industrial action. Moreover, planned engineering works are scheduled on some Overground and Elizabeth lines during the strikes.

Everyone is urged to check their journey before they travel when using any service. You can do this on the TfL website here.

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ANTHONY JOSHUA looks ready to fight right now as he showed off his shadow boxing and hulking physique.

The two-time heavyweight world champion has been out since September 2024 when he was knocked out by Daniel Dubois.

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But he posted a video online – showing off his incredible shape – shadow boxing outside.

Elbow surgery in May also kept Joshua sidelined – meanwhile shock talks to face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul progressed behind the scenes.

Paul has since announced a November 14 exhibition bout against WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis – who is FIVE STONE lighter.

AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn is still in talks with Paul’s promotional partner Nakisa Bidarian over a fight in 2026.

He told iFL TV: “They want to move forward with the Joshua fight around March 2026.

“But I said to him, ‘If you get chinned by Gervonta Davis, I can’t possibly make the fight with AJ.’

“Gervonta’s a 135lber. Obviously, they don’t think that’s going to happen but I don’t know too much about it.

“It’s an exhibition with bigger gloves? I don’t know. But they definitely want to go from Gervonta Davis to AJ.

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“The issue is, I don’t think we can wait till November to see how he gets on against Gevonta Davis.

“AJ is back in training with the view to fight in early 2026 so it’s very likely we’ll do our own thing. But we’ll see. We’re still talking.

“We do realise it’s a massive event. If he was to go in there and bash up Gervonta Davis, it wouldn’t be nothing much to boast about.

“It’s a cruiserweight vs a lightweight but at least he’s in there with a pound-for-pound fighter.”

Joshua, 35, is now set to return in January or February in a warm-up bout before turning his attention again to Tyson Fury, 37.

Fury retired in January following two defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, 38, last year but has teased a comeback in 2026.

Paul, 28, meanwhile made a heavyweight fight in November when Mike Tyson controversially made a comeback aged 58.

And over 100 MILLION watched Tyson lose his first professional fight in 20 years over eight shorter rounds of two minutes.

Paul then followed it up by beating ex-middleweight world champ Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 39, in June to earn himself a No14 WBA cruiserweight ranking.

But his next fight against Davis is not set to count towards his official record with the exhibition unable to be professionally sanctioned.

Paul fights in the 14st 4lb cruiserweight limit of 200lb while Davis is a champ in the 9st 9lb lightweight division of 135lb.

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Michael Zervos embarked on a trip around the world, visiting 195 countries in 499 days and asking hundreds of people exactly the same question – what was the happiest day of your life?

A man who has visited every country in the world found two places in particular to be scary and unwelcoming.

Three years ago Michael Zervos embarked on a trip around the world, visiting 195 countries in 499 days and asking hundreds of people exactly the same question – what was the happiest day of your life?

Earlier this year the Greek-American globetrotter returned to Detroit, his goal of reaching all 195 countries in the shortest time ever completed. He stopped the clock at just under 500 days.

The former movie maker was not just motivated by the glory of becoming the speediest nation-visiting completist but also by a desire to understand what makes people tick in different parts of the world. He recently sat down with the Mirror to share some of his insights into what makes people happy in different places.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]

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While Michael stresses that his rapid means of travelling meant he only got a quick glimpse into the cultures of the countries he visited, his insights remain fascinating.

As quick as he is to find positives in the destinations he visited, two places stood out to him as unwelcoming and a little unnerving.

“I had a bad experience in Liberia. I took a picture of a government building. There was no sign to say you couldn’t do it. It turned out to be a money-making scheme. I refused to pay, and they took me to jail,” Michael explained.

It wasn’t just the run-in with the authorities that left a bad taste in the mouth in the West African country. He also endured a more general feeling of unease when exploring.

“Some moments felt surreal. I’d enter a street market, and waves of people would turn to you like, ‘You don’t belong on this street, why are you here?’ Thousands of people would turn to you, and they’d stop what they’re doing. There was a sensation in the back of your neck where something was amiss,” Michael continued.

Another place that left Michael a little shaken was Stabroek Market in Guyana’s capital, Georgetown.

“The locals warned me not to go. It is one of those warehouse-style markets. Drugs are traded openly, and there is sex work as well. As soon as I walked in, it was like a horror movie. There was this guy at the end of the aisle. These deep, dark pockets were obscuring his face. He was staring at me, and he was staring at me. I went down the other aisle, and he followed me. My intuition was to go somewhere else,” Michael recalled.

The UK Foreign Office backs up Michael’s intuition, warning tourists from visiting the market.

“Crime levels are high, and police capacity is low. There are frequent armed robberies, hold-ups, carjackings and other violent crimes, often involving two or more attackers. Passers-by can get caught up in gunfire even if they are not targets because police are armed and shoot back,” the government body warns.

“Muggers can attack in broad daylight, often holding their victims at gunpoint or knifepoint. They may target tourists, particularly if those that show obvious signs of wealth.”

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Tiger Bay and Albouystown in Georgetown; Sophia, south Georgetown; Buxton; Agricola and Stabroek Market area are highlighted as areas “where robberies are a daily occurrence”.

Although the experiences unsettled him, Michael is keen to focus on the many positive aspects of the places he visited. One of his favourite countries to visit, and one of the most surprising, was Madagascar.

“The people, food, arts, and geography, everything was just a little outside what you might expect from mainland southern Africa. You’ve got rich biodiversity from having an isolated island where the flora and fauna are pretty different,” Michael explained.

“The faces of the people are extremely interesting, often very authentic smiles and expressions. They are beautiful to photograph. What you see is what you get. They are straightforward and earnest.”

Michael particularly enjoyed asking people in Madagascar what the happiest day of their life is. He has since turned these answers, and those he collected in other countries, into videos posted on his Instagram page.

“It’s like getting life unfiltered there. Even in the city, which isn’t that common, the language is interesting, and the food is unlike anything you’d find in the area. It’s a mix of Indonesian and Indian food, with high levels of spice, fried food, croquettes, and fritters with interesting green, earthy vegetal flavours.”

When it comes to European countries that particularly stood out, Liechtenstein was a surprise hit.

“People call it really boring, but I found it lovely. It’s a city-state nestled in the Alps. When I arrived, they were celebrating the beginning of Lent, a madigra-type thing. There were bands dressed in blue all over the place, playing music late into the night. People were offering me beers. I went to a local theatre and watched a film festival about extreme sports,” Michael said.

A young woman has opened up about her ‘hilarious’ experience of being the only international student and ‘the British girl’ in a sorority at a university in the US

It’s the classic scene we see in all the films – a student heads off to college in America, moves into a dorm room, plays sport, attends ‘frat parties’, or joins a sorority. On the big screen, it all looks a lot more glamorous than the debauched Freshers’ Week parties we have here in the UK.

But what are sororities and the American college system actually like in reality? Thankfully, a British woman called Angel has shed light on this by sharing her experiences at Arizona State University, in Georgia. She attended from 2019 to 2023 – and during that time, she was “most known for being the British sorority girl”.

She told her TikTok followers: “Being an international student in a sorority is quite hilarious because you have no idea what’s going on ever… like at all.”

Acclimatising was also tricky because Angel was the only fully international student in her sorority, whereas the fraternities boasted significantly more in 2019.

However, being British worked in her favour when it came to joining. That’s because her Britishness helped her to stand out among those around her. What’s more, it made it easy to make friends and have something to talk about.

Angel said: “I was the British girl to everyone in the house and I love it, it made it easy, comfortable, it was great.”

After being accepted into the sorority, members tried to pair Angel with people who she had things in common with. However, this backfired.

Amusingly, some thought she was from London in Canada. And as a result, she got paired up with a number of Canadians!

The closest connection Angel was able to find were people with distant British relatives – or simply people who had been to the UK on holiday.

Angel said: “[They] had like been there once or their great grandad was British… That was hard because no one really was an international student like I was.”

Another challenge was the former ASU student had to miss some sorority events before the university year began – as she hadn’t moved over to the US yet.

She said: “I had my flight book nine months before because it was so expensive so I missed a lot of stuff, but they were really understanding about that.”

And ultimately, joining late didn’t mean she missed out on making friends. In fact, that’s her favourite part of the whole sorority experience.

If her college mates come over to Europe, they now message her asking to meet up. Angel added: “They know I will happily take them around London and show them around, everyone knows that.”

Summing up her whole experience in the comments section, Angel admitted it did live up to her expectations from watching American TV shows and films.

She concluded: “In a nutshell in was like the movies to a point.”

Getting into a US university

British students can attend universities in the US by submitting applications to individual colleges.

According to the Institute of International Education (IIE), more than 1,057,000 international students were enrolled at US institutions during the 2024/25 academic year. This includes more than 10,500 from the UK.

As well as sororities and fraternities, there are many differences between UK and US universities.

American university campuses often resemble small towns. Plus, a Bachelors degree typically takes four years to complete – one year longer than in the UK.

Another thing to note is that you will not pick a subject you want to study when applying. Instead, you will spend one or two years exploring a range of subjects, known as general education.

These courses, often called ‘electives,’ span disciplines such as humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Students then choose a ‘major’, which is your main area of study.

FAMILIES living in the shadow of two “humungous” warehouses say the buildings have destroyed their view and devalued their properties.

The colossal steel frames, which residents have likened to cruise ships, are part of a 350,000 sq ft industrial site that is dwarfing homes nearby.

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Residents in Tyldesley, Wigan, described being alarmed by the scale, and some are even considering moving.

Plans from developer PLP show the massive site will eventually be home to four vast warehouses, with the council agreeing to a maximum height of 18.3m (60ft) for two of those buildings.

Delivery giant Whistl has already snapped up one of the huge sheds, signing a 15-year deal on a 140,000 sq ft unit.

A council boss insisted landscaping would help soften the appearance, adding that the project followed proper planning processes.

But residents argued the final approved plans from were far bigger than had been originally designed.

They worried about the effect on property values, arguing there was limited consultation before building started.

John Peters, 71, a retired teacher, has lived on the estate since 1978. He said: “It’s a total shock when you walk out of the door.

“The enormity of the thing just strikes you. It shouldn’t be there.”

He said his dreams of a peaceful retirement were “shattered” by the arrival of the structure so close to his home.

A campaign group has been set up to rally neighbours and fight the development, with more than 200 people in attendance at a recent meeting.

Mr Peters claimed the way residents were informed about the project left many feeling blindsided.

He said: “A letter was sent out to 90 residents, but I don’t know how they selected those residents because some of the people who back onto the site didn’t get anything.

“It was just completely random.”

Paula Boardman, 47, lives with her husband and two kids in a house that backs onto the imposing warehouse.

She said: “It’s quite upsetting, because we used to have such a lovely view.

“We knew this was going to be built, but we thought it was going to be a lot smaller.

“As soon as the framework went up, everyone realised the height of it – it’s humungous. I’m worried it’s going to take all our sunlight.

“It’s like a cruise ship at the back of our garden. Even if we wanted to move, I think the value of the house has gone down.”

She raised concerns about damage in her home that she fears could be related to the warehouse’s size and proximity of construction work.

She said: “I noticed a dip in the flooring back in February and a big crack in the wall.”

Steve Retford, 69, said he no longer sits in the garden because of the structure that stands just 30m away – describing the impact as “profound”.

The retired police officer said: “It’s just dreadful. We feel this sense of injustice.

“I don’t profess to be a planning expert, but when you look at the sheer enormity of this, it’s not right.

“It must have taken tens of thousands of pounds off the value of our houses. Every time I think about it, I feel sick.”

Care worker Danielle Edwards, 38, fears the warehouse could make it difficult to sell her home in the future.

Home upgrades that add the most value to a house

The best renovation to add value totally depends on your property, the local market and your potential buyers.

Zoopla shared a list of upgrades that will instantly add value to your home.

1. Loft conversion – increase of 15%
2. Off-street parking – adds £50,000 to property price
3. New kitchen – increase of 15%
4. Garage conversion – increase of 15%
5. Cellar or basement conversion – increase of 10-15%
6. Open plan living space – increase of 3-5%
7. New bathroom – increase of 3-5%

She said: “It’s awful. We bought this house because we’re a young family wanting to stay in the area.

“It would be very difficult to move. I can see it from my back garden. We thought they were going to be low-rise industrial units, but they’re not.”

Retired project manager Eric Earnshaw, 79, has lived in the Tyldesley area all his life but is now preparing to leave for the Lake District.

The keen dog walker said it’s because he’s had enough of constant building work.

He added: “There are walks that take me along fields in the area where there are plans for thousands of homes.

“All the green space around here is disappearing.”

Aidan Thatcher, director for place at Wigan Council, told The Sun: “This planning application went through our planning consultation and committee process.

“The final plans include landscaping which will help to screen and soften the appearance, and mitigate the impact on nearby properties.

“We will continue to monitor the site throughout construction, ensuring this development bringing new jobs and investment to the area is delivered properly.”

A spokesperson for PLP said they would not comment.

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