breaks

Oti Mabuse was seen getting emotional on the Loose Women panel earlier today, as she reminisced on her time on the TV show DNA journey with her sister Motsi

Oti Mabuse broke down in tears on today’s episode of Loose Women as she spoke about her emotional journey on the show, DNA Journey.

During the episode of the ITV show, which aired in 2023, Oti and Motsi Mabuse explored their family history in South Africa, in which they discovered a WWII connection.

Their grandfather, Paulus Mabuse, fought for the British in the Native Military Corps during the war. During the ITV daytime show, Oti revisited a clip of herself and her sister Motsi when they found out, which moved her to tears.

In the clip, Oti and Motsi were seen breaking down in tears when they were given medals their grandfather received for his work in the armed forces.

‘It’s a good thing, it’s an amazing thing. Please don’t think we’re sad. One of the missing pieces that we’ve missed and needed to hear for so long, it’s a beautiful thing. We’re so grateful. These are tears of, “Oh my God!”‘

The pair said they had “no idea” that there were war medals in their family, as they learnt their grandfather fought for the British in World War II. Oti revealed that her grandfather, along with many others were promised land. However, they were relocated and left in the middle of nowhere.

Oti said it made her feel “horrendous” as she said both her and Motsi cried their make-up off. However, she said they felt liberated knowing where they come from. “Now I know that I’m a granddaughter of a soldier,” she told the panel, before the clip was played.

As they cut back to the studio after the clip was played, Oti wiped away he tears as she said: “It’s moving.

“Also, I think that we tried to look for something, we didn’t wait for the show to come to us. We also asked our parents, and you can see the generational trauma that it causes.

“My dad didn’t speak to his dad and so he didn’t know. All that they knew is maybe they drank, they went to the mine, and then they died. He didn’t know that his life served a purpose and he helped save the world.

“We’re here because of people like our grandad, and it means the world to us.”

Speaking on her experience on Loose Women, Oti said it was the “best show” she’d ever done. “It gave me something personally back. Our history in South Africa is really rough. Specifically with my family it was wiped out, so we had no way of getting any information.”

Tonight, Sam Thompson and Marvin Humes will be taking part in the ITV show to discover their family history. In the episode, the duo start off in Jamaica. There, JLS star Marvin finds out that his Great Grandma Blanche was not actually married to his Great Grandfather David James.

They had four children, but immediately after the fourth, Marvin’s Grandma Ruby, was born in 1930, David James left.

Meanwhile, Sam flies into a panic when he is told he has an ancestor who spent time in Jamaica. “It doesn’t sounds good, don’t say it..” he says. However, he is relieved to learn there is no slavery connection.

It comes after Sam admits to Marvin that he knew “nothing” about his family history before taking part in the show.

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Coronation Street and Hollyoaks actress Nikki Sanderson has opened up about the moment her mum suffered two cardiac arrests at home and her brother performed CPR which helped save her life

Emotional Nikki Sanderson has recalled the moment her beloved mum collapsed in front of her and her brother.

The 41-year-old Hollyoaks and Coronation Street actress never had to perform CPR before until Jude suffered two cardiac arrests in November 2021.

Nikki and Jude recorded a special film for BBC Morning Live, which aired during Wednesday’s (June 25) episode, following the news that around 80 per cent of cardiac arrests happen at home.

Speaking about the horrific moment almost four years on, the actress explained: “I remember screaming to the operator, just begging ‘please help us’. We knew she’d gone but we desperately wanted her to come back.”

Audio from the frantic 999 call played which featured Nikki, Nikki’s brother James and Nikki’s boyfriend Anthony Quinlan, who played Pete Barton in Emmerdale.

The TV personality, best known for her roles as Maxine Minniver in Hollyoaks and Candice Steow in Corrie, burst into tears as she listened back to the call handler telling them exactly what to do in a bid to save her mum’s life.

The paramedic team quickly arrived and manage to save Jude’s life thanks to Nikki’s brother performing CPR on Jude.

Later in the film, Nikki met up with paramedic Howard Wolfenden, who was first on the scene, to discuss the terrifying situation she found herself in.

Howard reassured Nikki: “For you guys to do that CPR meant your mum’s chance of survival chances had just gone up exponentially.”

Jude and Nikki went to meet Howard for a CPR refresher course where he explained exactly what to do if they ever needed to perform it again.

Nikki’s mum Jude said: “I’m so thankful that everybody on that night pulled together and fought for me. I just wish everybody would learn CPR.”

Before appearing on Morning Live, Nikki shared a clip from the film on her Instagram page. She wrote: “In 2021, my mum suffered two cardiac arrests and died in front of me and my brother.

“Thanks to CPR and the incredible paramedics not giving up, she is still alive today. I’ve made a film about what happened and the importance of CPR with @bbcmorninglive and it’s on tomorrow morning from 9:30am.

“Knowing CPR and what to do in a situation like this could just save a loved one’s life… tune into @bbc one or watch on @bbciplayer.”

Morning Live airs weekdays on BBC One at 9.30am

Love Island’s Harry Cooksley was overcome with emotion during a chat with Dejon as he reflected on his antics in the villa following his steamy kiss with Yasmin Pettet

Love Island star Harry Cooksley burst into tears during a conversation with Dejon. The gold trader and semi-professional footballer was dealt a huge blow after his actions caused upset in the villa.

Harry, 30, was dumped by Helena Ford, 29, when it came to light that he’d kissed Yasmin Pettet. However, things became even more tricky when it emerged that he’d not only kissed her once, but went in for three kisses, leaving Helena in fits of rage after Harry attempted to lie about his kisses.

Helena fumed she was “done” with Harry after he’d embarrassed her, but he was quick to attempt to defend his actions, replying: “We both said we were open to exploring new connections.” Helena later flipped out, saying that their agreement wasn’t to include going to the Hideaway and “necking” someone three times.

But it appears that Harry’s actions have caught up with him, and while they weren’t documented on the main show, Love Island: Aftersun revealed his emotional conversation. Dejon said: “If I could have it my way, you and Helena would be together. You two get along, you two, I can clearly see there’s a connection between you two.

“What matters is what you want, innit?” Responding, Harry said: “Yeah, we just have, like, nothing, do you know what I mean?” as he wiped away tears. He added: “Where it’s just like, we were good and then it’s just like, she just can’t even be around me. It’s just weird, man.

“Like I’ll never be the same now after the way I’ve acted, do you know what I mean?” Their dramatic split sent the villa into chaos with Harry attempting to pursue a third female co-star just hours later. Fans have since reacted to the Aftersun clip which was also shared on social media.

“Helena probably would go back to him I think, I just think she likes him too much,” said one. A second went on to add: “Oh look, it’s the consequences of his own actions!” Meanwhile, a third typed: “What does he expect after his behaviour. I would never give him another chance!”

“Crocodile tears. You knew what you were doing and you didn’t care. Next!” fumed another. But it’s not just viewers who Harry has angered. His mum appeared on the spinoff and joked that she had made the decision to disown him multiple times due to his actions in the Majorcan villa.

Host Maya Jama commented: “Imagine he’s just living his normal life, talking to the boys, you forget you’ve got cameras on you.” But when asked if she approves of his actions in the villa, his mum hit back saying: “No! I’ve disowned him. On more than one occasion. Harry who? Harry who?

“Oh my God, it just rolls off his tongue, I don’t know. How can you forget the camera’s on you?” Prior to jetting out to the villa, Harry revealed he had warned his mum that he hadn’t ruled out having sex in the villa if the connection was there.

“It’s not out of the question [that I’ll have sex on TV],” he said, adding: “If it feels right, then I will – and I have briefed my mum as well. So yeah, if it feels right and it’s the right time,e I’m definitely open to it.”

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Riga, Latvia

Quite why the Latvian capital remains so under the radar is a mystery; the cobbled streets of the Vecrīga (old town) and the elegant art nouveau architecture make it one of the most beautiful cities in eastern Europe. Long summer evenings, with temperatures rarely topping 30C, form the backdrop for rooftop bars thrumming with live DJs, as well as alfresco concerts in leafy parks, while the beautiful sandy beaches of seaside Jūrmala are just a half-hour bus ride away.

Any visit should begin with a wander along the banks of the city canal and down Alberta Street, lined with ornate art nouveau mansions. Stop to refuel at the sprawling Central Market, housed in five former German Zeppelin hangars, offering dozens of local cheeses, smoked meats and classic dark rye breads – perfect sandwich fare.

The streets kick into life in summer, with free weekly concerts on Wednesday nights in Dzegužkalns park and in the Vērmanes gardens on Fridays in August, while jazz and world music fans should visit between 2 and 5 July for the Rīgas Ritmi music festival.

Where to stay Behind an art nouveau frontage, Hotel Neiburgs (from €114 B&B) combines the flexibility of self-catering apartments with hotel add-ons such as an excellent restaurant, fitness room and small spa.

Antwerp, Belgium

Anyone who thinks Belgium is a bit boring has never been to Antwerp – an artsy, quirky city packed with cocktail bars, coffee shops and independent art galleries that sparks into alfresco life in summer. On sunny weekends, Sint-Anneke beach (on the left bank of the River Scheldt) fills up with locals dipping their toes in the water and lunching on mussels at one of the many bistros that line the riverbank. Parks and open spaces become venues for street theatre, circus acts and open-air cinema, particularly during the Zomer van Antwerpen arts festival (19 June to 31 August).

To get an idea of the city’s rich history, visit MAS, an architecturally striking museum on the river, with each floor charting Antwerp’s history as a global trading port, topped with a huge rooftop terrace that gives spectacular 360-degree views.

Antwerp runs on its stomach, with microbreweries, chocolate shops and moules frites on every corner. The latest addition is Wolf, a food market with 10 restaurants. Pick up a picnic to eat in the gardens of Middelheim Museum’s world-class sculpture park. It features six zones exploring the relationship between humans and nature through abstract installations and strikingly innovative pieces, such as Erwin Vurm’s boat curving off a jetty, Misconceivable.

Where to stay In the historic centre, Hotel Matelote (from €115 B&B) features chic, minimalist design within the framework of two 16th-century buildings.

Bolzano, Italy

The capital of the South Tyrol – a fusion of Germanic architecture and history with Italian culture and food, set among the spectacular peaks of the Dolomites – is a gem. Surrounded by vineyards and lush mountain plateaux, it has one of the best summer music scenes in Europe. Jazz fans should visit between 27 June and 6 July, when the Südtyrol jazz festival offers more than 50 concerts across the region, while the Bolzano Festival Bozen (5 August-7 September) is a treat for classical music lovers, with performances held in some of the city’s most beautiful buildings, including Dominican cloisters and the 13th-century Castel Mareccio.

Most visitors to Bolzano head out to explore the spectacular scenery – at its loveliest in the summer months – either on foot along the city’s greenways or by taking a cable car up to the Ritten plateau. The Guncina Promenade is a 2.8-mile (4.5km) walk from the centre of the city out into the hills, with lovely views back across the skyline, while hiking trails unfold from the 1,227-metre high cable station at Oberbozen, along with the South Tyrol’s only surviving narrow-gauge railway. The big historic draw in Bolzano is Ötzi, a 5,300-year-old mummified iceman found by hikers in 1991 and sensitively displayed at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.

Where to stay Goldenstern Townhouse (doubles from €149 room-only) is set in the city’s medieval arcades and makes a wonderful base.

Gothenburg, Sweden

As summer temperatures soar in the Med, Scandi cities look increasingly enticing, and nowhere more so than Gothenburg on Sweden’s west coast. Näsetbadet and Askimsbadet beaches are short bus rides away, while a tram to the ferry port opens up the tranquil waters, unspoilt villages and long sandy beaches of the Gothenburg archipelago. Explore by kayak or island-hop by ferry, with the waterside deck at Tullhuset restaurant on Hönö island a great spot for a seafood lunch, before a paddle on the long stretch of sandy shoreline on Rivö island.

Gothenburg is famed for its oysters and seafood, best sampled at Feskekörka, the city’s waterfront fish market hall, which houses a clutch of excellent restaurants and a sunlit outdoor terrace. The city also has a centuries-long history of craft brewing and 40 independent breweries, many with tap rooms and restaurants. Sink a couple at Poppels Citybryggeri, or try the innovative brews at Sad Robot, open on Friday and Saturday nights.

Need to clear a thick head? Dip into the city’s sauna culture, spanning everything from a free public sauna in Jubilee Park to Dyrön electric sauna, a short boat ride from the city, with a spectacular three-mile hiking trail from the door.

Where to stay Hotel Bellora (from 806 krona/£62 B&B) is a slick boutique affair with one of the city’s best rooftop bars.

Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva is far more than a gateway to the Alps, and in summer has a laid-back, beachy feel, with a dollop of Swiss style thrown in. Popular spots for a swim include the artificial beach at Eaux-Vives on Lake Geneva (including a doughnut-shaped overwater deck and central pool), the floating “beach platform” at the Quai de Cologny and the Genève-Plage, where all manner of watersports, from yachting to paddleboarding, are on offer alongside a straightforward dip.

A great choice for vinophiles, the lattice of streets in the Vieille Ville (old town) are dotted with wine bars, from sleekly modern Soul Wines to the more traditional Vino Olio Caffe. Most roads lead to the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, where the imposing vaulted exterior is a precursor to the spectacular lake views from its towers. After sightseeing, there’s plenty more to enjoy; truffle out vintage finds at the Plainpalais flea market (Wednesdays and Saturdays), learn about the city’s watchmaking history at the Patek Philippe museum, or soak up live music at the Genève-Plage with three nights of alfresco performances at the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande festival (21-23 August).

It’s a pleasingly indulgent city, too, filled with fromageries and farmers’ markets (the best are at the Plainpalais on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday and Eaux-Vives on Wednesday and Saturday). For the ultimate treat, snag a table at Le Gruyérien for fondue, best worked off with a hike across the green slopes of Mont Salève – just a five-minute cable-car ride from the city.

Where to stay In a city of ruinously pricey hotels, the Tiffany by Fassbind (from 122 Swiss francs/£109 room-only) is a relative steal, tucked away on a quiet street in the Les Bains neighbourhood with a chic terrace restaurant.

Accommodation prices correct at time of going to press. These are the lowest available rates for July/August

Jeremy Vine and Ken Bruce front two new quiz shows this week, promising plenty of mind-bending twists this week. But there are also plenty of dramas for fans of explosive thrills.

Prince William and Princess Anne have shaped modern monarchy in their own way – so it’s no surprise Channel 5 is dedicating two documentaries on the heir to the throne and the Princess Royal this week.

The broadcaster has also promised exciting challenges ahead with Celebrity Puzzling, a brand new puzzle game show in which Jeremy Vine defies household names to the ultimate puzzle game.

Ken Bruce follows a similar theme on Channel 4 with his PopMasterTV heading to the small screen. ITV2, on the other hand, is introducing a ground-breaking comedy with Jordan Gray taking the lead in Transaction. Here are all the shows you need to keep an eye on this week.

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Prince William: Passion, Honour…

Saturday, 5

Prince William takes centre stage in this candid and revealing documentary that charts his journey from childhood to the present day. Using rare archival footage and key interviews, it explores his upbringing, relationship with his mother, Princess Diana, and very public fallout with Prince Harry.

Poised to be kind, William is presented not just as a royal, but as a man shaped by loss and duty. It’s a fascinating portrait of a prince on the brink of kingship and a man navigating family, fame and the future.

Capital’s Summertime Ball

Sunday, ITV

Couldn’t make it to Wembley? Rest assured – ITV brings the party to your living room. Hosted by Sian Welby, Chris Stark and Jordan North on Capital Breakfast, this year’s Summertime Ball is packed with performances from the biggest stars around: Mariah Carey, McFly, even rising sensation Lola Young.

With Eurovision favourites Remember Monday also hitting the stage, expect fireworks, sing-alongs and feel-good vibes in one of the UK’s most anticipated music events of the summer.

The Gilded Age

Monday, Sky

Back with its third season, The Gilded Age is a deliciously dramatic look at the clash between old money and new ambition in 1880s America.

Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon) has her eyes set on social domination while her husband George (Morgan Spector) risks everything in a financial gamble.

With stunning visuals, iconic returns from Cynthia Nixon and Christine Baranski, and cutthroat stakes, it’s a lavish, addictive drama about legacy, power and what people will do to keep their place in history.

PopMasterTV

Monday, C4

Ken Bruce brings his beloved music quiz to TV, and it’s as charming as ever. Five music buffs face off in a battle of pop trivia, racing through decades of chart history in a fame where memory is everything.

With singalong classics, retro facts and Ken’s dry wit holding it all together, PopMasterTV is a nostalgic gem. Whether you’re a chart nerd of a casual fan, it’s the kind of feel-good, comforting telly that’ll have you shouting answers from the sofa.

Crime Scene Cleaners

Monday, C4

Behind every crime scene lies a brutal mess – and a clean-up crew willing to face the unthinkable. This ten-part series follows real-life trauma cleaners in the UK and US as they scrub, sanitise and support victims’ families through unimaginable loss.

From robberies to gruesome murders, it’s gritty, graphic and gut-wrenching – but also deeply humane. With 24/7 call-outs and extraordinary compassion, Crime Scene Cleaners shines a light on the unsung heroes helping others start over – one horrific job at a time.

Celebrity Puzzling

Tuesday, 5

It’s brains over brawn in this cosy celebrity competition hosted by Jeremy Vine. Team captains Carol Vorderman and Sally Lindsay star with their celeb squads, going head-to-head in battles of logic, memory, wordplay and wit.

With laugh-out-loud moments, surprisingly tense showdowns and appearances from stars like Gareth Malone and Scarlett Moffatt, Celebrity Puzzling is perfect telly for puzzle lovers. It’s gentle, satisfying and the perfect watch to unwind.

Transaction

Tuesday, ITV2

Jordan Gray is a force of nature in this chaotic comedy about Liv, a trans nightshift worker who makes her supermarket shift anything but ordinary.

Hired as a PR stunt after the manager (Nick Frost) makes an offensive remark, Liv quickly realises she’s unsackable – and uses it to cause glorious havoc.

Transaction is sharp, silly and proudly anarchic, with Jordan’s wild charisma driving every scene. It’s messy, loud and defiant – and one of the boldest new British comedies in ages.

Ironheart

Tuesday, Disney+

After the events of Wakanda Forever, Riri Williams takes the MCU baton in Ironheart, a sleek new Marvel series where tech meets magic.

Dominique Throne shines as Riri, an MIT genius caught in a dangerous game with the mysterious Parker Robbins (Anthony Ramos). As tensions rise between science and sorcery, Riri must build more than a super-suit – she has to build her own legacy. Big on action, packed with heart and essential for Phase Five fans, this is Marvel’s next big swing.

The Kim Kardashian Diamond Heist

Wednesday, BBC3

In 2016, Kim Kardashian was tied up at gunpoint in a Paris hotel and robbed of millions in jewels – a crime that shocked the world. This gripping BBC doc unpacks the full story, from police investigations and trial footage to interviews with journalists and those close to the US reality TV star.

Revisiting that terrifying night and the global fallout, this documentary uncovers details that were kept quiet – until now. It’s glossy, revealing and surprisingly emotional.

Amol Rajan Goes to the Ganges

Wednesday, BBC1

Amol Rajan embarks on a moving and personal journey to India’s Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering. Surrounded by millions of pilgrims and extraordinary rituals, he reflects on faith, family and identity – while reconnecting with his birthplace.

This isn’t just a documentary about spectacle; it’s a deep, soulful exploration of belonging and spirituality. Beautifully shot and quietly profound, this one-off hour captures something few travel shows ever do: the emotional pull of home and the power of belief.

The Bear

Thursday, Disney +

Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) is back in the kitchen for season four, and the heat is on. With the restaurant gaining momentum and the stakes rising, Carmy, Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) and Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) face new hurdles that threaten to boil over.

A raw, intense exploration of ambition, grief and grit, The Bear mixes chaos and tenderness with razor-sharp precision. Get ready for more kitchen meltdowns and quiet victories in this unmissable drama.

Squid Game

Friday, Netflix

The global hit reaches its final act, and Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) is out for justice. Haunted by his past and driven by grief, he sets out to destroy the Game once and for all.

But the elusive Front Man (Lee Byung-hun) has other plans, and the psychological warfare only deepens. Directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, this intense, emotional conclusion delivers shocks, heart and explosive tension as Squid Game cements its place in TV history with an unforgettable final chapter.

Princess Anne: Royal Rule Breaker

Friday, 9pm, 5

She’s the monarchy’s steeliest operator and this 90-minute documentary finally gives her her due. Often overlooked but never outdone, Princess Anne has quietly become the Royal Family’s hardest grafter and boldest spirit.

From Olympic glory to diplomatic duty, this film traces her evolution from headstrong teen to pillar of the Crown. Featuring expert insight, archive footage and rare glimpses behind palace doors, it’s a tribute to a woman who plays by her own rules – and rarely puts a foot wrong.

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Basketball Hall of Famer and former Lakers fan favorite Vlade Divac broke his hip Thursday when he fell from his motorcycle while riding near the Adriatic Sea coast in Montenegro.

On Friday, a spokesperson for a hospital in Risan said the 57-year-old Serbian basketball legend now has an artificial hip after emergency surgery.

“During the day, a surgical procedure was performed,” hospital spokesperson Ljubica Mitrovic said of Divac. “He is in a stable general and physical condition and is under a careful supervision of the medical staff.”

Divac, a 7-foot-1 center, was drafted by the Lakers in 1989 after leading the Yugoslavia men’s basketball team to an Olympic silver medal the previous year. He became a full-time starter during his second season as a Laker and soon emerged as a fan favorite, with frequent appearances in commercials, sitcoms and late-night talk shows.

After seven seasons with the Lakers, Divac was traded to the Charlotte Hornets for the recently drafted Kobe Bryant on July 1, 1996. (The Lakers would sign another 7-1 center, Shaquille O’Neal, as a free agent later that month.)

Divac played two seasons with the Hornets and signed with the Sacramento Kings as a free agent in 1999. He spent six years there — a stint that included his only All-Star season, in 2000-01 — before returning to the Lakers for the last of his 16 NBA seasons in 2004-05.

After finishing his career with 13,398 points, 9,326 rebounds, 3,541 assists and 1,631 blocked shots, Divac had his No. 21 jersey retired by the Kings in 2009. He was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.

Divac was the Kings’ general manager from 2015 to 2020.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Experts say many people are being drawn to the North African region by its wide availability of high-quality hotels costing considerably less than similar properties in locations such as Spain, France and Italy

A surge in UK holidaymakers are swapping traditional European destinations for North Africa, according to travel firms.

Experts suggest the region’s appeal lies in its abundance of high-quality hotels that are significantly cheaper than similar properties in Spain, France and Italy. Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia are all seeing an influx of visitors from the UK.

Data from aviation analysts Cirium reveals that 19,847 flights are expected to serve routes from UK airports to these countries this year, more than double the 8,653 flights in 2019. In contrast, the number of flights to Spain and Portugal is predicted to rise by 10% and 9% respectively over the same period.

This indicates that many holidaymakers seeking better quality accommodation without paying more are willing to endure a longer flight, despite airlines like easyJet and Ryanair offering non-reclining seats and no onboard entertainment.

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Flights from Gatwick airport in West Sussex to Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh take approximately five hours and 20 minutes. This means an additional hour and 45 minutes on a plane compared to trips to the traditional southern Spanish hotspot of Alicante.

EasyJet commenced flights between Gatwick and Cape Verde, off the west coast of Africa, in March, marking its longest route serving England. These flights cover the distance of 2,332 nautical miles in six hours and 10 minutes.

Tui, the travel company, has reported a 30% increase in bookings for summer holidays in Egypt compared to last year, from both flight-only and package holiday customers. The firm also noted “double-digit growth” for Tunisia and a strong demand for Morocco.

Chris Logan, Tui’s UK commercial director, stated that these three destinations offer “fantastic value for money”, making it difficult for traditional European destinations to compete. Speaking to the PA news agency, he said: “There’s good quality accommodation and great weather beyond the traditional summer season.

“Even in the winter months temperatures are mild, making them a perfect choice for year-round travel.”

To meet the growing demand, Tui has increased its flights from the UK to North Africa this summer, introducing new routes from Stansted to Enfidha in Tunisia and from Newcastle to Agadir, Morocco. Booking.com, the online accommodation marketplace, reported a 68% increase in searches for summer breaks in Tunisia during the first five months of this year, compared with the same period in 2024.

Egypt and Morocco saw increases of 64% and 39% respectively. Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, managing director at Barrhead Travel, commented that Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia offer “incredible value for money” which is “proving increasingly attractive for holidaymakers this year”.

She added: “The investment in high-quality hotels and experiences across these regions is turning the heads of customers who may previously have favoured mainland Europe.”

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According to Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of Advantage Travel Partnership, “Although favourites such as Spain and Turkey are still our top-selling destinations, it’s safe to say north Africa is a region to watch over the next few years.”

She observed a “clear trend toward value-conscious holiday planning”, attributing this to the ongoing cost of living pressures and reduced disposable incomes.

Lo Bue-Said noted: “This shift has driven growing popularity for destinations like Morocco, Egypt and Tunisia, which offer more competitive pricing and high-quality accommodation options compared to the more traditional western Mediterranean resorts.”

This Balkan country has been hailed as an ‘up-and-coming’ holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why

Montenegro, a rather underappreciated jewel in the Balkans, should be on more Brits’ summer holiday shortlists. It’s an ideal spot for both beach holidays and city breaks, with direct flights from the UK to two of its cities – Tivat and Podgorica.

Touted as an ‘up and coming’ destination by Condé Nast Traveller, Montenegro caters to all sorts of holidaymakers, boasting wild beaches and hidden trails, as well as private beaches, beach clubs, and superyachts.

Plus, it’s a breathtakingly beautiful country, so you’ll have plenty of snaps to show off to your mates and social media followers.

The capital city, Podgorica, is just a direct flight away from London Gatwick, taking less than three hours.

Ideal for a city break, there’s loads to do in Podorica, from exploring the Ottoman-era neighbourhood of Stara Varoš, to taking a riverside stroll to Waterfall Niagara (not to be mixed up with the similarly named Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border).

History enthusiasts can take pleasure in wandering through the city’s historic sites, including the stunning Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja church, or the ancient Duklja Ruins, which hark back to the Roman era, and are just a few miles from the city centre, reports the Express.

For those seeking a tranquil beach holiday, Budva is the place to be. This stunning city boasts sandy expanses and pebbly coves, bustling tourist hotspots and secluded beaches favoured by locals.

Slovenska Plaža, a popular beach near the old town, offers both public and private sections. For a more serene experience, the picturesque Mogren Beach or the somewhat secluded Ploce Beach are ideal choices.

Many of the city’s hotels and resorts also feature their own private beaches, meaning you won’t have to venture far for some sun-soaked relaxation if you’ve booked a stay in the city.

If a summer getaway isn’t your cup of tea, then consider a winter trip to the mountainous village of Kolašin for some thrilling skiing.

The Kolasin ski centre has received glowing reviews from visitors. One thrilled guest wrote: “It was amazing experience. We went there to snowboard, and it was awesome. Ski tracks were great! We will come again next year!”

Another visitor shared: “Will remember this place because my 5 and 7 y.o, kids learned to ski here. Great ski instructors Ksenija & Ivan – more than grateful for their patient approach and fun we had with them.”

A third reviewer enthused: ” What a great resort to go to. There was plenty of snow and many runs to go down. Exciting and some scary runs but didnt take long to get back into skiing after over 20 years of not doing it.”

The Love Island villa erupts tonight after the girls get to watch the boys unknowingly talk about them and date three new bombshells, with Helena stating she is ‘raging about the disrespect’

Love Island series 12 has already surprised islanders and viewers with twists and turns, including already dumping two islanders, but the villa is about to explode in a new teaser for the upcoming episode. After seeing three new bombshells enter the ‘boys night out’, the girls are fuming and it could be the last bump in the road for some couples.

The boys left the villa earlier in the day for drinks, but what they didn’t know was that the girls would be watching their every move on a giant TV back in the main villa. Shortly after they all established where they stood in their relationship, three new bombshells entered and caused a stir for the girls watching.

The three bombshells include 24-year-old teaching assistant Malisha from Broxbourne, Commercial Banking Executive Yasmin, 24, and Insurance Development Executive Emily, 24, from Aberdeen.

After the girls watched the other half of their couple flirt with the new bombshells, Helena was not best pleased and said: “My man basically saying I’m a massive red flag because of something I’ve done in the past and I’m a big party girl…?” Alima responds: “Double standards”. Helena continues and says, “I’m raging about the disrespect.”

But they don’t have long to debrief about the boys as suddenly their one-on-one dates start playing on the big screen and they rush back to secretly listen in to more chats.

Opening up to the new bombshell on what he is looking for, Harry said: “The main thing is ambition; someone that wants a family, I’m 30 and ready for it, I’ve got my s*** together.” Discussing Shakira, Harry adds: “Potentially there’s unfinished business, I think she knows that as well, it’s just not the right time. She has pride, she’s only 22, but she’s ahead of her years and has a lot of self-respect.”

Yasmin eagerly asks Harry, “Are you open to getting to know other people, or do you like what you’ve got with Helena?

The islanders then get a sneak peek into Conor’s date with bombshell Emily. Conor tells Emily: “Whatever I do, I wanna be respectful, I’m definitely going to get to know you…” Unknowing to Conor, this comment goes down well with the girls watching, with the other half of his couple, Toni, labelling him “My respectful king.”

Later, the boys and bombshells return to the Villa and spot the huge screen and quickly realise what’s been happening. The boys aren’t happy, to say the least, about the girls being a fly on the wall during their chats, as Dejon says, “boys chat stays in the boys chat!”

But it is too late for that as Helena has some beef with Harry about what he said during the boys chat, and Meg tells Dejon exactly how she’s feeling about watching his date, telling him: “You failed the test.”

Harry and Helena head to the terrace and she tells him: “I dunno where we go from here…I don’t know how we can move forward…” Meanwhile, Conor chats to Emily in the snug, as he tells her: “The vibe I’ve got, we’re on the same wavelength, everything you said – I want someone to look after me and listen to me – I feel like that’s me”.

*Love Island continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX.

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NEWARK, N.J. — Protesters outside a New Jersey federal immigration detention center locked arms and pushed against barricades as vehicles passed through gates, inmates inside relayed word that meals had been delayed, and Newark’s mayor cited reports of a possible uprising and escape as disorder broke out at the facility.

Much is still unclear about what unfolded at the Delaney Hall facility in Newark, where Immigration and Customs Enforcement opened a 1,000-bed facility this year as part of President Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.

Photos and video from outside the facility Thursday show protesters pushing against the gates amid word that detainees inside were upset about delayed meals.

Amy Torres, executive director of New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, said some officers sprayed pepper spray and tackled and dragged protesters away from the facility. She said some protesters had minor injuries, but no one was hit by the vehicles.

An attorney for someone detained at the facility told NJ.com people inside became violent after meals were delayed.

“It’s about the food, and some of the detainees were getting aggressive and it turned violent,” attorney Mustafa Cetin said. “Based on what he told me it was an outer wall, not very strong, and they were able to push it down.”

Attorneys with clients inside Delaney Hall have had calls canceled and have not been able to get inside the facility Friday, according to Araceti Argueta, a spokesperson for the American Friends Service Committee, a nonprofit that represents immigrants.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, a Democrat who’s been critical of Trump’s immigration crackdown, early Friday called for an end to this “chaos and not allow this operation to continue unchecked.”

“We are concerned about reports of what has transpired at Delaney Hall this evening, ranging from withholding food and poor treatment, to uprising and escaped detainees,” he said.

It’s unclear whether there have been any escapes.

In a statement issued Friday, American Friends Service Committee said people inside the facility reported getting small portions of food, with breakfast at 6 a.m., dinner at 10 p.m. and no lunch.

Messages seeking comment were left with ICE, the Department of Homeland Security and local police.

GEO Group, which owns the facility referred questions to ICE.

ICE housed more than 53,000 people nationwide at the end of May, its latest public figures, which is well above its budgeted capacity of about 41,000 and approaching all-time highs.

Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff and chief architect of Trump’s immigration policies, said late last month that ICE should make at least 3,000 arrests a day. That would mark a dramatic increase from Jan. 20 to May 19, when the agency made an average of 656 arrests a day.

Delaney Hall has been the cite of clashes this year between Democratic officials who say the facility needs more oversight and the administration and those who run the facility.

Baraka was arrested May 9, handcuffed and charged with trespassing. The charge was later dropped and Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver was later charged with assaulting federal officers stemming from a skirmish that happened outside the facility. She has denied the charges said she was doing her job as a lawmaker conducting oversight.