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SCIENTISTS have discovered that a “punk rocker” dinosaur had metre-long spikes pointing out of its neck to protect it from predators.
The discovery came as analysis of fossils of the Spicomellus – the world’s oldest ankylosaur – was conducted by researchers, uncovering its elaborate armour.
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The Spicomellus is believed to have had metre-long spikes sticking out from its neckCredit: Reuters
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The dino roamed the Earth around 165 million years agoCredit: Reuters
The Spicomellus, referred to as one of the “strangest dinosaurs” to have ever lived, roamed the Earth around 165 million years ago and had bony spikes fused onto all of its ribs.
This ultra-rare feature has never been seen before in any other vertebrate species, living or extinct, according to scientists.
Ankylosaurs were a herbivorous group of dinosaurs known for their armoured, tank-like bodies and a club-shaped tail tip.
A team of palaeontologists recently discovered remains, helping to build on the original description of the animal, which was based on just one rib bone found near the town of Boulemane in Morocco, which was sold on to a researcher in 2019.
The new fossils revealed the dinosaur had spikes measuring 87 centimetres emerging from a bony collar around its neck.
These could have been even longer during the life of the Spicomellus, according to the research published in science journal Nature.
Professor Richard Butler, from the University of Birmingham and project co-lead, described the fossils as an “incredibly significant discovery.”
He said: “Spicomellus is one of the strangest dinosaurs that we’ve ever discovered.
“It’s utterly unlike any other found anywhere else in the world.
“I think it’s going to really capture the imagination of people around the world, and tell us a lot about the early evolution of the tank-like ankylosaurs.”
Brand new ‘American’ dinosaur revealed in London after 150 million years
He also told the BBC that the dino was the “punk rocker” of its time, alluding to its spiky looks which resemble loyal punk rock fans who may don spiky hair.
Professor Susannah Maidment of Natural History Museum, London, and the University of Birmingham, who co-led the team of researchers said the “absolutely bizarre” fossils were changing how scientists believe the armoured dinosaurs evolved.
She said: “When we originally named spicomellus, there were doubts that it was an ankylosaur at all.
“Now, not only can we confirm beyond a doubt that this interpretation was correct, but Africa’s only known ankylosaur is far weirder than anyone imagined.”
She added: “Spicomellus had a diversity of plates and spikes extending from all over its body, including metre-long neck spikes, huge upwards-projecting spikes over the hips, and a whole range of long, blade-like spikes, pieces of armour made up of two long spikes, and plates down the shoulder.
“We’ve never seen anything like this in any animal before.”
Professor Maidment said that while it is likely the armour evolved initially for defence purposes, it was probably used later to attract mates and show off to rivals.
The discovery of the spicomellus species was made after Professor Maidment acquired a rib bone from a fossil dealer in Cambridge in 2019.
Why did the dinosaurs die out?
Here’s what you need to know…
The dinosaur wipe-out was a sudden mass extinction event on Earth
It wiped out roughly three-quarters of our planet’s plant and animal species around 66 million years ago
This event marked the end of the Cretaceous period, and opened the Cenozoic Era, which we’re still in today
Scientists generally believe that a massive comet or asteroid around 9 miles wide crashed into Earth, devastating the planet
This impact is said to have sparked a lingering “impact winter”, severely harming plant life and the food chain that relied on it
More recent research suggests that this impact “ignited” major volcanic activity, which also led to the wiping-out of life
Some research has suggested that dinosaur numbers were already declining due to climate changes at the time
But a study published in March 2019 claimed that dinosaurs were likely “thriving” before the extinction event
YOUNG people being overdiagnosed with mental health conditions has left the state at breaking point, a report warns.
Policy Exchange’s study is backed by Jeremy Hunt, who as Health Secretary in 2012 pushed to give mental health the same importance as physical health.
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Jeremy Hunt has admitted a surge in mental health diagnoses in kids had ‘unintended consequences’Credit: Getty
He now admits a surge in diagnoses — as parents chased support for kids — had “unintended consequences” by overwhelming the special educational needs (SEND) system.
The report says costs are “unsustainable” and seeks a radical overhaul.
Mr Hunt said: “We seem to have lost sight of the reality that child development is a messy and uneven process.”
He added that in trying to support young people there are “excessive impulses to medicalise and diagnose the routine, which can undercut grit and resilience”.
60. The energy from Grimsby has been brilliant tonight.
With an hour gone, they still seem to have plenty in the tank.
The next goal is criitical in this game, Man Utd have enough quality on the pitch to turn this match in an instant.
Grimsby 2-0 Man Utd
58. What a chance for the Red Devils.
Mbuemo swings a cross into the box and Heaven has a completely free diving header.
Somehow, he puts his effort over the crossbar.
Woeful effort.
Grimsby 2-0 Man Utd
56. This weather may be helping the hosts.
The rain is torrential and makes conditions very difficult to play passing football in.
Man Utd have a free-kick some thirty yards out, good chance to ask some questions of the keeper.
Grimsby 2-0 Man Utd
54. Green does brilliantly to hold the ball up.
He seemed to have got in behind the defence but did not have the legs to make the most of it.
Grimsby are still looking dangerous on the attack here.
View from SunSport’s Gareth Davies at Kassam Stadium
A word for 39-year-old James Milner, named as Brighton skipper on his first start for four days short of a year.
He was named as skipper, and kept things ticking along nicely as Albion’s class kept them way out in front.
It was almost too easy for Brighton, who made it 3-0 seconds before the hour mark when Diego Gomez scored right footed from close in with the home defence opened up again.
Grimsby 2-0 Man Utd
52. That was a massive chance for Grimsby.
It should give them confidence that the Red Devils look very open when the hosts come at them.
As the rain pours down, Man Utd get a low cross into the box but the mixture of keeper and defender allows the League Two outfit to clear.
EVERTON’S Carabao Cup clash with Mansfield Town has been delayed.
The Toffees announced that the game has been pushed back by 15 minutes to allow fans “safe access” in time for kick off.
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Everton’s Carabao Cup clash with Mansfield has been delayedCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Everton are hosting Mansfield at their new Hill Dickinson Stadium, having played their first competitive match at the ground at the weekend.
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If you’re looking to get the most out of the final weeks of the summer, look no further than this road trip which stops at a number of coastal towns in one of the country’s most beautiful counties
One couple say they’ve cracked the perfect way to explore Cornwall’s stunning coastline (stock image)(Image: Teamjackson via Getty Images)
A travel influencer has shared her ultimate guide to exploring Cornwall’s stunning coastline, featuring seven gorgeous towns along the coastal county. Char, who runs the TikTok account CJ Explores alongside her husband Cory, has mapped out the perfect week-long road trip across North Cornwall in a video that’s prompted discussion among locals and tourists alike.
The couple have dubbed their itinerary the “Cornwall road trip you have to do ONCE in your life”, featuring a different town or village for each day of the week. Starting at Boscastle, the journey winds through breathtaking locations including Tintagel and Mother Ivey’s Bay before concluding in Newquay. Day two sees the duo recommend a visit to Tintagel, followed by stops at Port Isaac and then Padstow.
The beach at Bedrutheran Steps in Cornwall (stock image)(Image: 1111IESPDJ via Getty Images)
The adventure continues to Mother Ivey’s Bay, then Constantine Bay and Bedruthan Steps, before wrapping up at their final destination. Viewers have been quick to save the travel tips, with many gushing about Cornwall’s undeniable charm.
One follower reminisced: “I was very lucky to go to Cornwall every weekend as a child with my parents, and it is one of the most beautiful places.”
Another appeared to have already tested the route, sharing: “Just done it on my motorbike with my son. Beautiful part of the world.”
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Some suggested additional gems worth visiting, including St Michael’s Mount and Kynance Cove. However, numerous commenters have been unanimous in their response to one specific location that Char and Cory highlighted.
One forthright comment from a viewer simply stated: “Don’t come to Padstow”, a feeling that was shared by others. Another user responded: “We drove through it was the busiest place we went to last week.
“Must be such a nightmare being local, feel for you. It was a ridiculous amount of tourists.” Despite some comments on Padstow’s charm, the exasperation felt by residents is palpable.
Locals in Padstow fear the effects of overtourism on house prices (stock image)(Image: mick blakey via Getty Images)
The town’s growing appeal has sparked a housing crisis. Locals struggle to afford homes as overtourism drives up property prices or turns them into holiday lets. As of March, Rightmove reported the average house price in Padstow was nearly £700,000.
While not an isolated issue in Cornwall, Padstow faces becoming a “ghost village” during off-peak seasons according to Cornwall Live. Properties remain vacant in the colder months, owned by tourists who only use them as second homes in the warmer periods.
MANCHESTER UNITED are preparing for more ins and outs ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline!
There has been increased confidence that Chelsea will complete a deal for Alejandro Garnacho before Monday’s deadline, according to reports.
Bruno Fernandes is open to leaving the Red Devils at the end of the season after rejecting offers from Saudi Arabia this summer, according to reports.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly open to leaving Old Trafford, with multiple Premier League clubs and Real Madrid interested.
In other news, Real Betis are said to be confident in landing winger Antony on a permanent basis.
And there are reports in Italy that Napoli are open to including a mandatory buy clause into a loan agreement for Rasmus Hojlund, which would be worth around £39million.
I visited pretty market town named UK’s best place to live — I’d move there right now(Image: Laura Nightingale )
It’s been described as a ‘handsome market town’ with ‘bags of character’, and is known for its picturesque Georgian streets, handsome Tudor and Georgian stone buildings and easy access to the rolling hills that surround it.
And earlier this summer, a 2025 guide named Farnham, on the western edge of Surrey, among the best places to live in the UK. I spent the day in the beautiful town exploring its huge array of independent shops, thriving arts scene, superb restaurants and peaceful parks. Farnham is currently undergoing a huge regeneration project called Brightwells Yard, which will see 239 new homes, 25 commercial units for shops and restaurants, a six-screen cinema, a multi-storey car park and landscaped public open spaces.
Roadworks in the town centre are expected to continue until early 2027. But I didn’t let that put me off, and I parked in the Sainsbury’s car park and wandered around the pretty neighbourhood on foot.
I first visited Gostrey Meadow, and it painted a picture for the whole neighbourhood. There was a real community feel about the place with children playing in a new playground (opened in July) and families enjoying picnics under serene willow trees by the trickling River Wey.
On Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, people can gather around the bandstand and listen to live jazz music on the lawn for free. I bought a coffee from Jamie’s Coffee van and watched ducks bob along the water before moving on to Farnham Maltings.
The superb arts centre in Bridge Square is situated along the river, and it’s in a picturesque location for watching shows or participating in workshops. I only walked past on my way to Downing Street (not the London one), but I nearly stopped at its café as it sold tempting artisan sourdough, open Danish sandwiches.
Downing Street, which is currently closed to some traffic but not pedestrians, is a hidden gem for mooching around independent shops and quaint eateries. I stopped at a glorious little little spot called Hamilton’s Tea House half way up the street for a snack.
As I sat down at a table by the window, I looked around and noticed all three fellow diners were tucking into scones which immediately made me fancy one. By the counter I could see a display of huge plain, sultana and cheese scones and I gave in and ordered a fruit one (£4).
I enjoyed a fruit scone at Hamiltons Tea House(Image: Laura Nightingale )
Served on a rectangular plate with butter, a mini pot of clotted cream and a jar of strawberry jam, I quickly understood why it was a hit among the other customers. Ultra light and fluffy, and incredibly buttery and moreish, I devoured the lot, not leaving a crumb.
With my sweet tooth satisfied, I continued walking up the quaint road, popping my head into a charity shop along the way, before I reached The Borough and then Castle Street home to familiar chain restaurants including Gail’s Bakery, Caffe Nero, Bill’s, Giggling Squid and Pizza Express.
Downing Street in Farnham(Image: Laura Nightingale )
On the corner was The Castle pub, a stunning gastropub set within a beautiful Grade two listed Georgian townhouse. Stylish yet relaxed, it boasted a hidden covered courtyard garden at the rear offering a tranquil oasis from the bustle of town life.
On the outskirts of the main town centre was Waverley Abbey, Farnham Castle, Birdworld, Farnham Park, Museum of Farnham, Bourne Mill Antiques Centre and Alice Holt Forest, so you could really spend a weekend there. On the fourth Sunday of every month, a farmers’ market takes place in Central Car Park.
I really enjoyed exploring the pretty Surrey town and I would happily move there tomorrow. It felt safe, clean and was bursting with character. I absolutely adored Gostrey Meadow, it was my favourite bit.
Farnham is a popular place to live for young professionals and families, especially those looking to escape the city for an idyllic rural life but still with easy access to the capital. There is a regular and direct train service from Farnham to London Waterloo which usually takes around 90 minutes.
According to Rightmove, house prices in Farnham have an overall average of £611,117 over the last year. This is just above the Surrey average of £598,462.
The majority of properties sold in Farnham during the last year were detached properties, selling for an average price of £897,765. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £538,557, with terraced properties fetching £435,120.
Passengers headed to Greece are urged to keep an eye on Jet2’s website for updates as the airline continues to monitor strike developments that could impact flights
Flights could be affected by an upcoming 24-hour strike(Image: Anton Petrus via Getty Images)
Jet2 has alerted travellers jetting off to Greece tomorrow (Thursday August 28) about planned industrial action which “may impact Greek Air Traffic Control”.
The air carrier confirmed it was keeping a close watch on the situation and currently intends to operate all flights as scheduled. Holidaymakers are advised to check the airline’s website regularly for the latest information.
The industrial action is scheduled to run from 9.30am until 1.30pm local time. The walkout forms part of a broader 24-hour strike organised by public sector union ADEDY.
Jet2 is advising passengers to arrive to the airport on time as all flights are currently set to proceed(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
It comes in response to a proposed draft law, with fears it could negatively affect trade union, social and political activities, Travel and World Tour World reports.
In a statement on its website, Jet2 said: “We are currently monitoring a planned General Strike in Greece that is due to take place between 09:30 – 13:30 (Greek local time) on Thursday 28 August 2025 and may impact Greek Air Traffic Control.
“You don’t need to contact us or take any extra actions – we will continue to monitor this strike action and publish any updates here on our website.” In light of potential disruptions, Aegean Airlines has offered its customers the chance to alter their tickets, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Aegean Airlines is offering travellers to change their flight ahead of the strike(Image: MarioGuti via Getty Images)
The Greek airline stated on its website: “Due to the possibility of the 4-hour work suspension (09:30–13:30) of air traffic controllers, all passengers holding tickets for Thursday, August 28, 2025, are offered proactively the flexibility to change their tickets for a new travel date until September 30th 2025, without any reissue fee and fare difference or cancel their booking and receive a credit voucher for future use, should they wish to.”
The Hellenic Air Traffic Controllers’ Association called on controllers to walk out in support of a 24-hour strike by Greece’s main public sector union ADEDY over disciplinary rules set to be introduced for civil employees which are set for a parliamentary vote this week However, Greek carriers Aegean and Olympic Air said flights would go ahead as normal.
According to Greek Travel Pages, only essential flights will be allowed to operate during the work stoppage including:
International flights crossing the Athens FIR
Flights carrying heads of state or prime ministers
Hellenic Air Force missions and scheduled exercises
The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has issued a warning to Brits who are planning to travel abroad, urging them to declare one detail or risk paying thousands
You should purchase appropriate travel insurance when travelling abroad, according to the Foreign Office(Image: Getty Images)
The Foreign Office has issued a stern warning to Brits, advising them to declare a crucial detail on their travel insurance or risk facing potential bills exceeding £150,000.
It’s no revelation that securing your travel insurance is an essential part of holiday planning, providing financial protection if you encounter any issues while abroad. Travel insurance is designed to cover unexpected hospital bills, lost or stolen items, trip cancellations and even emergency transport. Without it, these costs can be incredibly steep when in a foreign country.
However, when applying for coverage, neglecting to disclose any past medical conditions could completely invalidate your insurance.
Insurance providers may want to know of medical conditions or visits for medical attention within the last three, four or five years(Image: photobyphotoboy via Getty Images)
The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) stated: “If you travel internationally you should buy appropriate travel insurance before you go, covering you for existing physical or mental health conditions (including those currently under investigation) and any activities you will be doing whilst you are away.
“If you do not have appropriate insurance before you travel, you could be liable for emergency expenses, including medical treatment, which may cost thousands of pounds.”
More specifically, it advised: “Declare existing conditions or pending treatment or tests so that you are covered if there are related complications during your trip; failing to declare something may invalidate your travel insurance.”
The FCDO provided examples of how much this could ultimately cost you if it nullifies your insurance:
Fall and break your leg in Spain, you will need hospital treatment and possibly medical evacuation/repatriation – £25,000+
Quad bike accident in Greece, and you need surgery and medical evacuation/repatriation – £80,000+
Stomach bug or infection treated in a hospital in the USA and possibly medical evacuation/repatriation – £150,000+
Money Saving Expert (MSE), the brainchild of Martin Lewis, highlights that some insurers may request a comprehensive medical history spanning several years.
The site advises: “It’s important to carefully read the questions asked by the insurer – they may want to know of medical conditions or visits for medical attention within the last three, four or five years, and some insurers may even want to know your medical history even further back, as you’re usually considered to be more likely to make a claim.”
The FCDO advises Brits to have their insurance policy details at hand when travelling(Image: John Lamb via Getty Images)
As reported by the Express, MSE also lists some of the most common medical conditions that need to be disclosed when buying travel insurance, although this list is not exhaustive:
Epilepsy
Heart conditions (including high blood pressure or cholesterol)
Mental health conditions (including depression, eating disorders, anxiety)
Arthritis
Gout
Crohn’s disease
Price comparison giant Money Supermarket points out that travel insurance could be pricier if you have a pre-existing condition. It explains: “Yes, you can get travel insurance if you have a pre-existing medical condition, although it might be more expensive than standard travel insurance. This is because an insurer sees you as a higher risk of making a claim on the policy.
“However, there are still lots of policies to choose from for those with pre-existing conditions. They cover a wide range of health problems and there are also specialist insurers who can help.”
Before jetting off, the FCDO advises holidaymakers to have their insurance policy details at hand, including the policy number and emergency contact number for your insurer.
“Share your policy details with people you’re travelling with and friends or family at home, in case they need to contact your insurance company on your behalf,” it suggests.
Rachel Smith spent over 200 days backpacking around Southeast Asia so she’s learned a thing or two about packing along the way – but early on she made a crucial mistake
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(Image: Rachel and Omio)
Packing for holidays can be a timely process, whether you’re off on a short city break, spending a week on a beach in the sunshine, or prepping your hiking boots for a walking getaway.
Rachel Smith, 25, is a solo travel influencer who shares her adventures on TikTok, and recently spent 210 days backpacking across Southeast Asia, so she knows a thing or two about how to pack efficiently.
However, the travel pro admitted to the experts at Omio that she quickly realised she’d made one crucial error when she planned for her seven-month trip.
She explained: “I originally packed with the ‘just in case’ in mind; however, this just used unnecessary space, and ended up untouched. When travelling now, I only pack what I truly know I’ll wear. Another thing that I forgot to do that I wish I had was to check the weather differences between countries, which is especially important when country-hopping. For example, while places like Malacca and Kuala Lumpur are hot and humid year-round, I was freezing when I visited Northern Vietnam. Thankfully, I had a lightweight jacket with me, which also came in handy on buses where the air-conditioning was blasting.”
Rachel has become a pro at packing efficiently(Image: Rachel and Omio)
Rachel went backpacking for seven months(Image: Rachel and Omio)
Luckily, she quickly learned her lesson, and now she’s been sharing her top tips with other intrepid explorers, to help them get the most out of their baggage allowance without having to spend a fortune on excess baggage.
Her must-haves include a hanging wash bag which “keeps all my toiletries in one place and off hostel floors”, two microfibre towels o she has “one for the beach, one for showering”, a worldwide travel adapter that “works everywhere”, a power bank that’s “essential for long travel days and safety as a solo traveller”, travel locks “for securing valuables in hostels” and a waterproof phone case, although she warns to test the latter in a sink before heading off!
She regularly shares her packing essentials with her TikTok followers(Image: Rachel and Omio)
Another top tip from Rachel is to pack clothes which you can mix and match throughout the trip. She explained: “For clothes, I had plenty of mix-and-match outfits so I could create lots of looks without packing too much. I also brought makeup and a couple of nice dresses for when I wanted to feel good on nights out. I ended up using almost everything I packed, but the items I used daily were: my packing cubes, microfibre towel, power bank, and travel locks. My makeup and dresses weren’t everyday essentials, but I was so glad I had them when I wanted to feel a little extra.”
It’s a similar trick to using the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method which experts say can help you pack 30 different outfits in just the one suitcase. The idea is to stick to a simple formula; five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two bags, and one destination-specific item. Then if you have the space and think you might need an extra item or two, you can add those in. (There’s the extra bonus of sticking to one bag and therefore not needing to pay extra for a second bag too!).
Do you have a travel story you want to tell us? Email us at [email protected].
After John’s brutal actions played out, fans soon took to X to complain.
One wrote: “Loveemmerdalebut this all seemed a bit much with the violence and the crossbow seemed in bad taste what with the recentreal lifetragedies.”
Another added: “@ofcom complaints incoming and this time you take action.”
A third said: “The writers have really crossed line bow and arrow after crossbow killings not right.”
Emmerdale icon set to quit the Dales days after co-star’s exit was confirmed and shock cheating plot
A fourth chimed in: “Isn’t this a tad violent for early evening.”
While a fifth remarked: “A bit distasteful isn’t it having a serial killer kill someone with a bow and arrow havent you got any compassion for a presenter who lost his entire family by a bow and Arrow in real life.”
The Sun previously revealed that Lawrence Robb, who played Mackenzie, had filmeddevastating murder scenesfor his character.
Ofcom complaints in soap
Soap viewers are no strangers to complaining to Ofcom when it comes to harrowing scenes.
Here are some of the most notable recent examples:
Vinny’s attack: Emmerdale received hundreds of complaints following Vinny Dingle facing a homophobic attack. Vinny realised that Mike, a man who he met on an online support forum, had a dark ulterior motive for befriending him, which lead to Vinny being attacked Viewers were left horrified by the distressing moment, with a total of 279 contacting Ofcom with their concerns.
Mick’s Corrie exit: Corrie’s killer villain Mick Michaelis bowed out earlier this year – but not before seeking revenge on former best mate Kit Green. He beat Kit up, putting him in hospital – with fans complaining over the grim scenes.
Tom King’s animal abuse: Emmerdale viewers were furious over harrowing scenes which saw villain Tom King harm his pet dog in an effort to bring his wife Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) back under his control. He was seen injecting the dog, Piper, with an unknown substance.
Martin Fowler’s death: EastEnders viewers were shocked and heartbroken when Martin Fowler died in the soap’s 40th anniversary live episode – with many claiming they were ‘calling Ofcom’ after the distressing scenes.
A source said at the time: “The scenes are going to be really harrowing for fans to watch.
“Mackenzie has been in so many scrapes and dangerous positions but this time it looks like he’s bitten off more than he can chew.
“Viewers will be on the edges of their seats watching what happens.”
Anastasia, 23, was left with a big shock when she finally landed at her destination after travelling with Ryanair. She couldn’t get over the major travel blunder
13:18, 27 Aug 2025Updated 13:18, 27 Aug 2025
The journey left her a little shocked (stock image)(Image: Dmitri Zelenevski via Getty Images)
A woman who flew with Ryanair has shared how she ended up “miles away” from her holiday destination due to a significant travel mishap. Anastasia, 23, took to social media to share her blunder in the hope that others won’t make the same mistake.
In a recent video, she revealed that she was travelling to Brussels with Ryanair when she made a startling discovery about her trip. Despite the journey being smooth, she got the shock of her life upon landing at her chosen destination, and the reason why might surprise you.
Sharing a clip of her journey, Anastasia wrote: “When Ryanair says you’re flying to Brussels without mentioning the airport is 60km away from the city.” This equates to just over 37 miles.
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Although she confessed it was “her fault” for not checking, the error seemed to cause them some travel chaos. It serves as a reminder to thoroughly research before travelling.
The video has since been viewed over 11,000 times, and people were quick to comment. A variety of opinions were shared.
One person said: “Yeah, this one’s on you.” Another added: “Not to be that person, but did you check how you would get from the airport to your destination?”
A third replied: “I’m from Brussels and I think it’s badly indicated. Yes, it says Brussels Charleroi, but they write Brussels when they are two completely different cities?”
Meanwhile, a fourth could relate to the story, as they commented: “I have flashbacks of this happening to me and my friends on New Year’s in Antwerp waiting for the bus at 2am in the middle of nowhere.”
Someone else also chimed in with: “In your defence, they do market it as Brussels South Airport when, in fact, it’s very far away, and in a small town called Charleroi.”
If you weren’t aware, Brussels actually operates two primary airports. These comprise Brussels Airport (BRU), situated in Zaventem, and Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), positioned in Charleroi.
Brussels Airport is regarded as the principal international hub and sits nearer to the city centre, whilst Charleroi Airport lies further south and is frequently utilised by low-cost carriers.
The Ryanair website declares: “Brussels is a wonderful city break destination at any time of year, so the timing of your trip really depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing. The busiest season is summer, from the end of May until the beginning of September, and of course this comes with both pros and cons.
“If you like to see your cities bathed in sunshine, summer is undoubtedly the best time of year to book flights to Brussels, and Brussels’ gilded baroque buildings do look beautiful in the sunlight.
“But Brussels is busy at this time of year too, and you might prefer a little more space to yourself when you visit. If that’s the case, the shoulder seasons (April/May and September/October) are a really good idea. The kids are in school and students in college, so the streets are a little quieter but the weather is still hospitable – and cheap Brussels flights are easier to find off-peak season too.”
The airline has been approached for further comment.
NIGEL Farage today appeared to row back on his pledge to include women and children in illegal migrant deportations.
The Reform leader said the two groups would be “exempt” from being sent packing for five years – but not “forever”.
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Nigel Farage today appeared to row back on his pledge to include women and children in illegal migrant deportationsCredit: PA
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The Reform leader said women and children will not feature in the first five years of mass deportationsCredit: Getty
On Tuesday Mr Farage declared that under his mass deportation plan, 600,000 illegal migrants, including females of all ages, would have no right to stay in Britain.
But pushed on the issue again at a press conference in Edinburgh today, he clarified: “I was very, very clear yesterday in what I said, that deportation of illegal immigrants – we are not even discussing women and children at this stage.
“I didn’t say exempt forever, but at this stage it’s not part of our plan for the next five years.”
It comes as the Taliban confirmed it is “ready and willing” to strike an illegal migrant returns deal with Mr Farage.
A senior official suggested the extremist group would ask for aid to support deported Afghans instead ofmoney.
The official told The Telegraph: “We are ready and willing to receive and embrace whoever he [Nigel Farage] sends us.
“We are prepared to work with anyone who can help end the struggles of Afghan refugees, as we know many of them do not have a good life abroad.
“We will not take money to accept our own people, but we welcome aid to support newcomers, since there are challenges in accommodating and feeding those returning from Iran and Pakistan.
“Afghanistan is home to all Afghans, and the Islamic Emirate is determined to make this country a place where everyone – those already here, those returning, or those being sent back from the West by Mr Farage or anyone else – can live with dignity.”
The Taliban official also suggested it will be easier for Afghanistan to “deal” with Reform than Labour.
He said: “We will have to see what Mr Farage does when or if he becomes prime minister of Britain, but since his views are different, it may be easier to deal with him than with the current ones.
“We will accept anyone he sends, whether they are legal or illegal refugees in Britain.”
The Taliban are hardline Islamist militants who seized back control of Afghanistan in 2021 after two decades of war.
They enforce brutal Sharia law, with strict rules on women, media and daily life, backed by violence and fear.
Branded terrorists by the West, they’re accused of harbouring extremists and crushing human rights while clinging to power.
The Reform UK boss said the public mood over Channel crossings was “a mix between total despair and rising anger”, warning of a “genuine threat to public order” unless Britain acts fast.
This morning Tory Chairman Kevin Hollinrake confirmed his party would also “potentially” look to strike a returns agreement with the Taliban.
He added that his party’s deportation plan, which was published in May, is “far more comprehensive than the one we’ve seen from Reform, in that it dealt with both legal migration and illegal migration”.
Unveiling a five-year emergency programme, dubbed Operation Restoring Justice, Mr Farage yesterday tore into what he called an “invasion” on Britain’s borders and pledged the boldest deportation plan ever put forward by a UK party.
Speaking at an aircraft hangar in Oxfordshire, Mr Farage declared: “If you come to the UK illegally, you will be detained and deported and never, ever allowed to stay, period.
“That is our big message from today, and we are the first party to put out plans that could actually make that work.”
Reform’s plan centres on a new Illegal Migration (Mass Deportation) Bill, which would make it the Home Secretary’s legal duty to remove anyone who arrives unlawfully, and strip courts and judges of the power to block flights.
Britain would quit the European Convention on Human Rights, scrap the Human Rights Act and suspend the Refugee Convention for five years.
Reform would also make re-entry after deportation a crime carrying up to five years in jail, enforce a lifetime ban on returning, and make tearing up ID papers punishable by the same penalty.
Mr Farage said women and children would be detained and removed under the plans, with “phase one” focusing on men and women and unaccompanied minors deported “towards the latter half of that five years”.
He even raised the prospect that children born in Britain to parents who arrived illegally could also be deported, but admitted it would be “complex”.
He said: “How far back you go with this is the difficulty, and I accept that… I’m not standing here telling you all of this is easy, all of this is straightforward.”
There would also be a six-month “Assisted Voluntary Return Window” with cash incentives to leave before Border Force begins US-style raids. Mr Farage said: “Will Border Force be seeking out people who are here illegally, possibly many of them working in the criminal economy?
“Yes, it’s what normal countries do all over the world.
“What sane country would allow undocumented young males to break into its country, to put them up in hotels, they even get dental care? How about that?
“Most people can’t get an NHS dentist. This is not what normal countries do.”
The scheme would also see prefab detention camps built on surplus RAF and MoD land, holding up to 24,000 people within 18 months.
Inmates would be housed in two-man blocks with food halls and medical suites – and would not be allowed out.
Five deportation flights would take off every day, with RAF planes on standby if charter jets were blocked.
In the vast catalog of relationship science research, very little focuses on the second date — or at least beyond what it takes to land one.
There are ample studies about first dates and initial attraction, which are often conducted in speed dating-style experiments. On the opposite end of the spectrum, some researchers devote their entire careers to studying long-term relationship trajectories. But few delineations are made among the dates that make up the period between meet-cute and making it official.
Even under a pop-culture dating framework, which assigns some value to early dating milestones including the third date and the three-month mark, Date No. 2 falls to the wayside.
Yet the second date is psychologically significant, because it marks most daters’ first venture past “initial clearance,” said Bree Jenkins, a licensed marriage and family therapist and dating coach based in Los Angeles.
Instructions for a first date are clear: Introduce yourselves and decide whether you’re compatible. This “meet and greet,” as Jenkins called it, most often happens over coffee or drinks.
“The second date is different, because you have some level of psychological reassurance that the other person is interested,” Jenkins said. “So some of the anxiety comes down, and I think it’s a little bit easier for people to be more intentional about how they want to connect.”
The Times spoke with relationship scientists and dating coaches to determine what types of second-date activities might foster that early sense of connection, which ideally snowballs into successive dates.
Their insights distilled to the following criteria:
Keep it affordable
Money puts the pressure on, and the goal of a second date should be to take the pressure off.
Duana Welch, a dating and relationship coach and author of “Love Factually: 10 Proven Steps From I Wish to I Do,” said that when someone spends heavily on their date, “research shows that a lot of times, there’s a sexual expectation that’s implied or actually real.”
Such a dynamic can hinder daters’ ability to effectively gauge their compatibility, “so take that expectation away from it,” Welch said. “Do something that’s pretty simple and pretty low cost.”
In other words, don’t be stingy, she said, but focus on being generous with your time and compliments rather than with your money.
Get active, but don’t cut the conversation
General second-date advice suggests incorporating an activity as a divergence from the first date-style, sit-down conversation. Relationship scientists agreed but issued a caveat: Make sure you can still talk.
Paul Eastwick, a psychology professor at UC Davis specializing in the science of relationships, said that whereas in the past people might have interacted 10 or 20 times before they went on a first date, with the advent of online dating, “the archetype that people often have is, ‘I met you on the first date.’”
In that paradigm, a follow-up date is still ripe for introductory conversation, which can’t easily occur in many default second-date settings like a movie theater. Instead, Eastwick recommended a cooking class or immersive show — “something that permits interaction, but you’re also doing this third thing.”
Welch recommended a bike ride or museum stroll, as “people sometimes open up more where they don’t feel like they have to look right at each other.”
Lean into novelty
Lastly, the suggestion to try something new may seem like a cliché, but it’s also scientifically legitimate.
“Anytime that you have a novel experience, especially if it’s enjoyable, you’re going to release more dopamine,” Jenkins, the dating coach, said. “It gives people a way to connect and feel more positive emotion behind the connection.”
With all that in mind, here is a list of second-date ideas in L.A. that relationship experts can get behind.
On the corner of East 4th Street and South Evergreen Avenue on a recent Friday night in Boyle Heights, a large crowd gathered in front of Picaresca Barra de Café swaying to the syncopated beats of Los Chicos del Mambo. Near the band, Natalia Lara of Tortas Ahogadas El Águila filled birote salado rolls from Gusto Bread with carnitas. But the main event was underway inside the cafe: a latte art throwdown.
Throwdowns, special menus, omakases, pop-ups, speakeasies and out-of-the-box events are part of L.A.’s growing underground coffee scene. And they might be the best way to tap into what’s happening in the world of coffee. Cuppings, signature drink service and guest barista takeovers add to the diversity and creativity of these coffee experiences, which keep evolving.
“Each one is offering something special and has varying approaches with some very limited coffees or methods,” says Mikey Muench of Senses Café Projects, a pop-up that has made its way around Los Angeles from the Lasita window in Far East Plaza in Chinatown to restaurants, breweries and cafes such as Homage Brewing, Canary Test, Ondo, HIGTE and Woon.
Senses Café Projects allows Meunch to explore the coffees he enjoys drinking and to experiment with new tools and brew methods, he says. He focuses on pour-overs. “It’s my personal favorite way to enjoy coffee,” says Muench. “I am also experimenting with the nostalgic flavors of my childhood. I’m half Thai and half German. The majority of the beverage ideas and components are inspired by my Asian heritage.”
Yasuo Ishii, founder of leading-edge Tokyo roaster Leaves Coffee, was a guest brewer at Kumquat Coffee downtown last March. Other barista guest appearances at Kumquat have included brewers from Fritz Coffee in Seoul and Ditta Arigianale in Florence.
A few hard-to-get reservation-only coffee omakases also have popped up in L.A., such as Nobu Coffee at Courage Piano Lounge in Gardena, serving coffee hand-poured into a fabric Nel filter in a traditional Japanese kissaten style. Tangible Gratitude serves by reservation only a five-course sensory tasting experience in its Hermosa Beach design studio for $125 per person.
Strategic planning unlocks access. Follow coffee experts, specialty roasters and professional baristas from the high-profile competition circuit on social media; they often drop breadcrumbs to the next opportunity.
Keep up with the 2025 U.S. Coffee in Good Spirits Champion Jerry Truong, for example. He recently guest-bartended special shifts at Hollywood cocktail bar Night on Earth and Johnny’s Bar in Highland Park to serve his competition-winning coffee cocktails. Other key players include Frank La of Be Bright; Kay Cheon of Dune Coffee Roasters in Santa Barbara; World Barista Champion Michael Phillips of Blue Bottle; and consultant Jaymie Lao.
In addition to cafes, restaurants and farmers markets, coffee events are spilling into culinary festivals, art galleries and retail stores around the city. Automaker Rivian recently invited Cheon to make coffee with his Slayer espresso machine on the back of an R1T truck in its Venice showroom garden. The cafe kiosk at fashion brand Goodfight’s Historic Filipinotown shop has become a favorite destination for the coffee community.
“Coffee pop-ups are happening all the time in Los Angeles where your favorite baristas can express their ideas, and coffee folks, professionals and enthusiasts can celebrate coffee in ways you just don’t see in cafes every day,” says Lao.
Here are nine places where you can check out previews of yet-to-open cafes, guest baristas serving rare coffees, special pop-up menus or multicourse tastings.
The seaside town in Norfolk has an award-winning beach and a fresh sea breeze that will make it difficult to leave behind. Most holidaymakers quickly change their mind about it once visiting
10:17, 27 Aug 2025Updated 10:18, 27 Aug 2025
This seaside town in Norfolk combines old-time charm and breathtaking natural beauty(Image: Getty)
You don’t need to travel overseas to soak up gorgeous sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, as Britain boasts magnificent coastal destinations that offer everything you could wish for and more. One such destination is this unassuming town in Norfolk.
While it may appear unremarkable initially, with just 7,367 residents recorded in the 2011 census, visitors quickly discover its hidden magic. The charming town of Sheringham sits along the Norfolk coastline, merely an hour’s drive north from Norwich.
Most holidaymakers quickly change their mind about Sheringham after visiting. Countless tourists have claimed it feels like stepping into a bygone era when they arrive in this enchanting destination for a day out or getaway.
Colourful coastal huts are a staple of Sheringham and many other UK seaside destinations(Image: David Robinson via Getty Images)
The settlement brims with activities, boasting a prize-winning shoreline, stunning countryside and parks for exploration, plus fascinating local and military heritage centres. On TikTok, one visitor chose to document her trip to this quaint location, describing it as a place ‘where time slowed down’.
“Sheringham – a cosy seaside town where time slows down. Colourful cottages, fresh sea breeze, and the sound of waves – it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer,” she penned in the caption of her video.
She proceeded to share footage beginning with a lady in a blue dress and sun hat strolling along the train station platform. The clip was captured from inside what appeared to be a vintage carriage, instantly creating the sensation of journeying through history.
The TikTok creator then proceeded to showcase brief clips from their trip to Sheringham, featuring the high street adorned with vibrant bunting strung across the sky, followed by scenes of a procession of elderly ladies dancing and parading through the town.
In 1975, Sheringham’s original train station was re-opened as the main station of the North Norfolk Railway(Image: chrisdorney via Getty Images)
They went on to showcase the stunning seafront, where visitors could be seen relishing the scenery and engaging in water activities despite the overcast conditions. And what seaside excursion would be complete without indulging in an ice cream?
They strolled past pastel-hued buildings before reaching their chosen ice cream parlour and purchasing a chocolate-dipped cone filled with ice cream. The quintessential coastal resort trip also calls for an encounter with some seagulls, which the creator captured with one perched on a town wall, watching the pedestrians as they wandered by.
Viewers were swift to comment with their reactions, with many expressing astonishment at how tranquil and charming the town appeared to be, reports the Express. “I love Britain one of my favourite countries,” one person wrote. Another viewer said: “This is not just a video. It’s like opening up to a brand new dimension of extraordinary power!”
With Venus now firmly by your side and at your back, you have the courage of your love convictions – and can make a major change.
While the moon guides you to make the best of a cash situation, instead of letting it beat you.
New income streams can link to a special skill you’ve had since childhood – but never really valued before.
A journey towards “S” is so good for you.
DESTINY DAYS
Mix up your timetable on Monday, make space for fun.
Stick to a health promise on Thursday.
Be wise to weekend temptations.
What is your star sign’s element?
In astrology, the elements — Air, Water, Earth, and Fire signs — serve as foundational principles that influence the characteristics and behaviours associated with the twelve star signs.
Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn
The Earth signs are grounded in the tangible and practical aspects of life, embodying the stable and nurturing qualities of their element. These signs are known for their pragmatism, reliability, and strong connection to the physical world, often excelling in matters that require patience and persistence.
Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius
The Air signs are characterised by their intellectual, communicative, and social nature. This reflects the light and dynamic essence of their elemental influence. Overall, these signs tend to excel in the realms of ideas, relationships, and innovation, bringing a breath of fresh air to their interactions and thought processes.
Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces
The Water element signs are profoundly impacted by their element. With each astrological sign, water gives way to emotional depth, strong intuition, and a capacity for deep empathy and connection.
Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius
Fuelled by the element of Fire, these fire signs in astrology are known for their passion, boldness, energy, enthusiasm, courage, and a zest for life that often leads them to adventurous and creative endeavours.
MAKE THIS THE WEEK YOU…
Be less stubborn about saying sorry.
Allow yourself time off from chores.
Step back from someone else’s squabble.
URANUS SEXTILE NEPTUNE
This rare connection of power planets last happened in 1966 – and sets up two years of joy, generosity and genius thinking.
What does this mean for Leo?
The next two years are all about breaking boundaries that have always held you back – in what you think, how you behave, who you allow yourself to love.
When true freedom comes knocking, you will recognise it, and welcome it.
Time spent abroad, living and working alongside people you admire, can also reshape your future.
Fabulous is the home of horoscopes, with weekly updates on what’s in store for your star sign as well as daily predictions.
I’m watching overtourism in action. Within the iridescent marvel that is Croatia’s Blue Cave, four boats holding about a dozen people each have an allotted 10 minutes before we motor back out again so that the next batch of visitors can float in. About 1,500 people a day visit this beautiful grotto on the island of Biševo, the biggest attraction within the Vis archipelago, two hours and 20 minutes south of Split by ferry. After paying the €24 entrance fee, I’m left underwhelmed by this maritime conveyor belt. At least the 45-minute foot ferry from Komiža, on the archipelago’s main island of Vis, to Biševo’s Mezoporat Bay, the launch point for boats to the Blue Cave, is only €4.
Many of the other cave visitors are on one of the countless speedboat tours departing from all over Dalmatia and crowding into Mezoporat Bay before whizzing off elsewhere. I’m staying on Vis itself to take a longer, slower, more satisfying look at the island, where I spent a night three years ago and which I’ve been hankering to revisit ever since. Despite the overwhelming popularity of the nearby Blue Cave and its speedboat tours, plus the boost in tourism on Vis after much of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again was filmed here in 2017, I know there’s a quieter, mellower side to the island, and it doesn’t take long to find it.
In sleepy Rukavac on Vis’s south-eastern coast, British couple Xania and Craig Wear welcome me into one of their four guest rooms in the large stone house they renovated after moving here 20 years ago. The former PE teachers run WearActive, offering yoga, kayaking, paddleboarding and cycling in Rukavac. On their seven-day, “relaxingly active” holidays you can do as much or as little as you like. “Actively relaxing”, I find, is just as fitting a description.
Kayaking just off Stiniva beach, Vis. Photograph: Mary Novakovich
Xania serves delicious plant-based food on the large shaded terrace, which has views of the sea. But before breakfast we walk to the flat rocks of Bili Bok beach, where Craig puts me through my yoga paces. Clean, salty air fills my lungs as I lunge and stretch by the Adriatic. I follow this with a swim at nearby Srebrna beach. Late afternoons are spent lazing on the pebbles at Tepluš beach, 10 minutes’ walk from the house. I could get used to this.
The next morning, my hosts suggest kayaking 6 miles (10km) from Rukavac to Stiniva Bay, Vis’s most famous beach and a place of peerless beauty. Two giant limestone cliffs curve round the pebbly beach, nearly meeting in the middle. From the top of the hill behind the cliffs there’s a steep, rocky footpath to the beach, but it’s infinitely more enjoyable to paddle on to the beach, where only kayaks, paddleboards and small rubber dinghies are allowed. Craig is on a paddleboard, while Xania and I share a kayak, and my husband has a single kayak. At 8.30am there are only about four people here, and we have a blissful, peaceful swim.
The Blue Cave of Biševo is beautiful but can be very busy with visitors. Photograph: Mary Novakovich
Craig knows I’ve always wanted to learn how to paddleboard, so on the way back to Rukavac we stop in tranquil Ruda bay. After some expert instruction, I’m on the board and paddling away, initial jitters soothed by the hypnotic motion of gliding on the water. Now I see what all the fuss is about.
Away from the water, my husband and I get to know Vis more intimately, crisscrossing its vineyard-covered interior and heading up and down its winding mountain roads. Its capital, Vis town, dozes during the day, most restaurants closing while the sailing crowd cruises. It comes alive at night, the restaurant terraces along the Venetian harbour buzzing in the summertime warmth.
Smaller Komiža is the place for lunch, with everything from cheap pizzerias to smart restaurants. Near Gusarica beach we find Konoba Jastožera, a restaurant built on stilts over the water, where lobster pots hold the restaurant’s speciality.It’s only when I hear the soundtrack to the Mamma Mia! films that I realise we’ve stumbled on one of the sequel’s filming locations, and instantly expect high prices and low quality. Wrong on both counts. As long as we don’t order lobster, it’s one of the most affordable restaurants we’ve seen so far, with two courses for €25. It’s not all money, money, money here.
Mary Novakovich in Konoba Jastožera. Photograph: Adam Batterbee
For an island that was off limits to foreigners until 1989, when the Yugoslav army base here closed down, Vis seems to be taking its time in developing its tourism (Biševo’sBlue Cave aside). I spot a few military tours about, taking people to the huge network of tunnels and bunkers left behind by the army. I get a fascinating glimpse into 1944 Vis when I hike up to the collection of caves at the foot of Mount Hum, where future Yugoslav president Tito and his fellow partisans hid from the Nazis.
Then there’s the growth of active holiday companies bringing more people to the island, which Xania sees as a positive thing, even if it means more competition. “Vis would then become an island that’s known for its adventure holidays,” she says. “And then you have more people coming to do that kind of tourism.” I nod in agreement. The island’s natural rhythm – slow, unhurried – is one to be savoured, not raced through.
The trip was provided by WearActive, which offers seven-night active holidays from €1,590pp, including breakfast, four lunches, three dinners with wine, five days of activities, transfers to restaurants on four evenings and from Vis town ferry terminal
