Many of the treks to reach the San Gabriel Mountains’ highest peaks are arduous slogs up steep hillsides, all-day affairs that, while rewarding, are not simple day hikes.
But then there’s Throop Peak (pronounced “troop”).
Reachable via a four-mile, round-trip hike over moderate terrain, this 9,138-foot summit offers panoramic views of Los Angeles County and beyond, with some hikers reportedly seeing not only the Pacific Ocean but also Death Valley from this mountaintop.
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A few reminders before we dive in:
Always check the weather before leaving, especially right now when L.A.’s weather patterns are flip-flopping between autumnal 🍂 and summer. 🥵
Pack more water than you think you need; there is none on this trail (although Little Jimmy and Lamel Springs — seasonal water options — are nearby).
Print this form, place it on your vehicle’s dash and remember to share a digital copy with a loved one before you leave.
A view of Mount Lewis and the Antelope Valley from the trail near Throop Peak.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
You’ll start your trek to Throop Peak at Dawson Saddle, a mountain pass that’s about an hour-and-a-half northeast of downtown L.A. There are no toilets at the trailhead, so make sure to stop beforehand if needed, perhaps at the nearby Jarvi Vista Overlook, which you’ll pass if you’re taking Angeles Crest Highway to reach the trail.
A view of the Antelope Valley, including Three Sisters and Black Butte, from the Dawson Saddle trail.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
You’ll find the trailhead across the highway from a large maintenance shed. Please take good care as you head up the first third of a mile of the trail, which is narrow and slippery. Hiking poles would be helpful here.
Need to catch your breath as you get acclimated? Turn and appreciate the immediate views of the Antelope Valley to the north!
Soon, you’ll reach a ridgeline that you’ll take south past fallen logs, green pine trees and thick manzanita. From here, about half a mile in, you can look to the southeast and see where you’re headed. Throop Peak will be already visible! The trail is fairly moderate from here.
The trail to Throop Peak includes a lush segment through pine forest.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
About 1.25 miles in, you will notice on your map that you can take one of two paths to reach the summit.
Mostly out of curiosity, I took the more direct route: a third of a mile up steep terrain where I crushed over sandy, rocky soil that at times was unstable. I wished I had trekking poles, but in what seems to be my curse, I forgot them at home (again!).
Just before reaching the summit, I followed the path through a thick stand of manzanita. I crossed through, although doing so always gives me the willies because snakes love shady shrubs.
The other path to the summit is twice as long, but only two-thirds of a mile, so still a short jaunt. With either path, you will gain just over 460 feet in elevation, and either path will reward you with increasingly stunning views.
I was blown away when I reached the summit, quickly noticing nearby Mt. Baden Powell, which I’ve hiked many times. Farther out, I observed layers of mountains seemingly stacked against each other, like views a painter using aerial or atmospheric perspective employs to show depth.
Layers of peaks visible from the Throop Peak summit.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
I read the plaque at the summit that identifies its namesake, Amos G. Throop, founder of “Throop University in 1891,” which eventually became CalTech. (For transparency, Throop founded a Universalist group in Pasadena that exists now as the church I attend; hence I knew how to pronounce the peak’s name.)
The official and unofficial signs that mark the summit of Throop Peak.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
One of the nice parts of this hike is that it isn’t terribly crowded. I encountered only five people and three dogs on my late afternoon hike last week. I had the summit to myself, which meant I could sit and really appreciate not only the surrounding vistas but also its native plants, including thick patches of yellow rabbitbrush, some lupine and maybe a bit of San Bernardino beardtongue, if my plant identification app is correct.
If you’d like to continue hiking, you have the option — as long as you have a good map — to keep hiking, hitting Mt. Baden Powell, Mt. Hawkins or any number of other surrounding peaks.
On my way down, I listened to two Clark’s nutcrackers calling back and forth to each other, and then later, the echoing squawks of ravens communicating as they foraged together.
The view from Throop Peak, a less popular hike in Angeles National Forest.
(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)
Given its short distance, moderate difficulty level and high payoff, this is one of my new favorite hikes. I’d like to return soon with friends to watch the moon rise from the summit, as the clear views to the east offer excellent opportunity for that. With every new adventure comes inspiration for the next one. May you find the same!
Throop Peak via Dawson Saddle Distance: 4 miles Elevation gained: About 1,200 feet Difficulty: Moderate Dogs allowed? Yes Accessible alternative: For desert vibes, the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve; for views, Mount Wilson Observatory
3 things to do
Beachgoers enjoying the sun at Bluebird beach.
(Jacqueline Pinedo / Los Angeles Times)
1. Hunt for “trashure” along L.A’s coastline The California Coastal Commission’s annual coastal cleanup day will be from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, with cleanup events across the coastline. Several volunteer events are scheduled in L.A. County from Malibu to Long Beach. This year, volunteers can participate in what the commission has dubbed the “world’s largest scavenger hunt.” Various “trashure,” which can be redeemed for prizes including hotel stays, sporting event tickets and gift cards, will be hidden at cleanup sites. Learn more and sign up at coastal.ca.gov.
2. Begin your birding journey in Huntington Beach Bolsa Chica Conservancy in Huntington Beach will host a beginner birder workshop from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday at its interpretative center (3842 Warner Ave.). Participants will learn how to use binoculars and how to spot and identify local birds. The class is $20 per person. Space is limited. Sign up at bolsachica.org.
3. Hike near herons in Harbor City Los Angeles City Department of Recreation and Parks will host a nature hike from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday through Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park in Harbor City. Ryan Kinzel, the park department’s junior urban ecologist, will guide participants on this free trek near Machado Lake, home to more than 300 species of migratory birds, including multiple species of herons. Register at eventbrite.com, although walkups are welcome.
The must-read
A coyote at Ayala Cove located on Angel Island, a state park in the San Francisco Bay Area, on Aug. 29.
(California State Parks)
At first, the dog-like creature swimming through the San Francisco Bay looked to be a seal or sea lion. Times staff writer Alex Wigglesworth reported that onlookers, including seasoned wildlife scientists, were amazed to discover that it was instead a coyote, swimming a quarter mile off the coast of Angel Island. Coyotes have lived at Angel Island State Park since 2017, when scientists observed the first one to arrive. That ’yote may have howled enough pleas for companionship across the bay to entice more to join it. Brett Furnas, an environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, pointed out that the coyote recently spotted was swimming away from the island. “That’s consistent with dispersal,” he said. “I think some of those coyotes are now saying, ‘Hey, we want our own territory,’ and they’re trying to swim back to Marin.”
Happy adventuring,
P.S.
Our local parks are for everyone. That’s why it’s so important that as many residents as possible weigh in on the city of Los Angeles Park Needs Assessment. Is your community in dire need of green spaces? Does your local park need better lighting? What’s missing? What’s your dream for your neighborhood park? You can submit your comments at needs.parks.lacity.gov to help shape the future of our green spaces and more. On the website, you can also learn about when the next community meeting is scheduled near you.
For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.
Great Britain’s Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong and British number two Katie Boulter tell BBC Sport their focus is on their upcoming tie with Japan.
Emma Raducanu is absent after choosing to play on the WTA Tour this week.
All Creatures Great and Small star Callum Woodhouse has opened up about his favourite moment from filming season six of the Channel 5 drama, which is set to return later this month
Tristan Farnon and James Herriot
All Creatures Great and Small makes its comeback to Channel 5 with series six later this month, and the cast have been revealing some of their most cherished moments from filming.
The upcoming series sees the return of Tristan Farnon (portrayed by Callum Woodhouse), as he enjoys time away from his duties with the Royal Army Veterinary Corps.
Prior to the new series launching on September 25, actor Woodhouse chatted exclusively to Reach publications about his most treasured behind-the-scenes memory.
During shooting of the opening episode at Beamish Museum close to County Durham, which serves as a stand-in for Sunderland, he found himself transported back to his youth.
The performer revealed: “I used to go there a lot with my parents when I was younger as I’m from up that way, so I was always dragging them every other weekend to wander around those streets.”
“So to find myself 20 years later filming this TV show on those streets, and my parents came down for the day and were watching me film in this place that we used to wander around and go to the sweet shop, that was one of my most special days of the series.”
The actor’s relatives are massive admirers of the programme, and in an earlier chat, he disclosed how they would frequently view episodes repeatedly.
He revealed: “Especially when it’s airing, they will watch it at 9pm on Channel 5 and then at 10pm they will switch over to Channel 5 +1 and will immediately watch the episode again.
“It’s really sweet but also I’m like ‘Guys, do something else with your lives’.”
All Creatures Great and Small season 6 is back soon
James Herriot star Nicholas Ralph also spoke to Reach titles about one of his standout moments from filming series six.
He recalled shooting in Yockenthwaite, which serves as Heston Grange, adding: “It’s out in the middle of the Dales, you need satellite phones there as there’s no signal.
“It’s in the absolute sticks. We were filming but it was raining sideways and I had a little brolly up, and vans were coming because they do tours of the Dales now.
“They were stopping every now and then, and one was slightly bigger and about 12 people in ponchos jumped out of this bus and were like ‘we love you guys’.
“They they all went back on the bus and they racked on the All Creatures theme tune, they jumped out and were dancing in the rain.
“I asked where they were from and they said Brazil. We had some wonderful fan interactions.”
All Creatures Great and Small returns to Channel 5 on September 25 at 9pm
Great Britain took a big step towards next year’s Davis Cup qualifiers as Cameron Norrie and Arthur Fery both won to give them a 2-0 lead over Poland.
World number 34 Norrie survived a scare against world number 545 Tomasz Berkieta to win his nation’s opening World Group 1 match 7-6 (11-9) 6-4 in Gdynia, Poland.
Fery, ranked 227 in the world, then battled to a 6-4 6-2 victory over Olaf Pieczkowski, ranked 484.
The 23-year-old was making his Davis Cup debut after British number three Jacob Fearnley pulled out with a rib injury.
Britain need one more win on Saturday to reach February’s first round and therefore have a shot at winning the title in 2026.
The world’s number one doubles pair, Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash, will make their debut in Saturday’s doubles, which will be followed by two reverse singles.
All Creatures Great and Small will return for a sixth series later this year, and ahead of the new instalment, 5 has released a first-look trailer
The wait is almost over for fans of All Creatures Great and Small, as the official release date for the sixth series has finally been announced.
In anticipation of its eagerly awaited return later this month, Channel 5 has unveiled a trailer teasing the sixth chapter of the critically acclaimed series.
Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales during the mid-20th century, All Creatures Great and Small, based on the cherished books by James Herriot, centres on the lives of vets and their families.
The new series will kick off on Channel 5 on Thursday, 25th September, promising to deliver more “heartwarming human and animal tales” to viewers.
The official synopsis reveals: “But, this time, we find our beloved Skeldale gang in a somewhat different situation as we join them in 1945, just as the war in Europe is coming to a close.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The new series promises ‘eartwarming human and animal tales’(Image: 5)
“We arrive back in Darrowby to veterinary advancements, expanded families, and new faces as they all look ahead to a brighter and more peaceful future.
“This series will see Herriot’s wonderful characters navigating the opportunities that a new world brings, a host of animals great and small, and of course, each other.”
Nicholas Ralph will be returning to his role as vet James Herriot, with Samuel West reprising his part as Siegfried Farnon, James’ business partner.
All Creatures Great and Small is returning to TV screens(Image: 5)
Deadwater Fell star Anna Madeley will once again portray Mrs Hall, and Rachel Shenton will reprise her role as Helen Herriot, while Callum Woodhouse will continue to play Tristan Farnon.
Mrs Pumphrey will be portrayed by Patricia Hodge once more, whilst Tony Pitts makes his comeback as Richard Alderson alongside Imogen Clawson reprising her role as Jenny.
Fresh faces joining the All Creatures Great and Small lineup for the sixth series feature Hollyoaks favourite Lucy-Jo Hudson, Lord of the Rings’ Gaia Wise, Titanic legend Jonathan Hyde, Waterloo Road performer Martin Brown and The Feud’s Chris Gascoyne.
The sixth series of All Creatures Great and Small is due to land on 5(Image: 5)
Viewers expressed their delight following the trailer’s debut, with one fan declaring: “Can’t wait! This is my FAVOURITE show,” whilst another enthused: “Can’t wait for the new season.
“Really hoping the show gets renewed for two more seasons like before. We need a show like this in today’s world. Heartfelt, fun, emotional, nice, charming and wonderful. Thank You!!”
All Creatures Great and Small series six will air from Thursday, 25 September at 9pm on 5. All other series are available to stream on 5.
Perhaps the easiest way to mainland Europe is by ferry. Simply walk, cycle or drive off the landing ramp and you’re immediately ready to explore another country. Have you enjoyed a historic ferry port, such as Saint-Malo; explored a nearby gem such as Honfleur, Bruges or Antwerp; or pottered around the countryside of northern France, Belgium or the Netherlands within an hour or so of the coastal ports? We want to know about your short hops and what you discovered at the end of them.
The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planetwins a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.
Keep your tip to about 100 words
If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words we will be judgingfor the competition.
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The aerial view on the medals incorrectly used an outline of Sunderland and the River Wear
Great North Run organisers have apologised after medals given to participants in this year’s event featured the wrong city and river.
About 60,000 people completed the 13.1m (21km) half-marathon on Sunday with each of them handed a medal incorporating an image of what was supposed to be an aerial view of Newcastle, Gateshead, South Shields and the River Tyne.
However, acknowledging the items actually showed nearby Sunderland and the River Wear which have no involvement in the event, the Great Run Company admitted it had “made a mistake”.
The image’s designer, Newcastle-based artist Howard Lee, has been approached for comment.
In a statement organisers said “eagle-eyed” people had spotted the error, which was also featured on merchandise such as clothing.
They claimed it made it “the most unique t-shirt and medal in Great North Run history, a keepsake that we’ll be talking about in 44 years’ time”.
“Wear sorry!” they said, in a joking reference to Sunderland’s Wearside location.
“To answer the rumours that this was the route reveal for next year… sorry to disappoint, it’s a mistake.
“Lots of people looked very closely at the designs and none of us picked it up.
“We had Newcastle United stars on the start line and the Stadium of Light on the medal.
“The Great North Run is truly a celebration of the region, even more so than we had planned.”
Getty Images
About 60,000 people were given medals when they reached the finish line in South Shields
The event’s founder, Sir Brendan Foster, said he had “spent ages marvelling” at the designs and “never spotted the mistake” even when they were displayed in the window of city centre department store Fenwick.
He added: “I’ve lived on the River Tyne my whole life and I should’ve noticed.
“But if I’d run the Great North Run yesterday, I’d still be wearing my medal with pride.
“Thanks to everyone who took part in an amazing event yesterday and all the supporters who came out to cheer on the runners.
“It was a fantastic Great North Run, and we’re already looking forward to 2026 after we’ve brushed up on our geography.”
Ahead of the event, artist Mr Howard said he felt “very privileged” to have been involved with this year’s medal, which he described as being “quite a striking design”.
The sewing contest was on at 9pm on Tuesday (September 2), which meant it coincided with the first episode of the new series of the baking show on Channel 4, reports the Express. The culinary programme made its return at 8pm for a feature-length debut episode.
The clash saw many fans flock to social media to express their annoyance.
One viewer wrote on X: “Would be interested to see stats on how many viewers switch over from Bake Off on Channel 4 to BBC1 for Sewing Bee at 9! Who decided a b***** overlap was a good idea?”
Esme Young on The Great British Sewing Bee(Image: BBC)
Another viewer wrote, ” I’m Glad [GBBO] is back, but I wish it didn’t overlap with Sewing Bee.”
“UNACCEPTABLE OVERLAP,” vented someone else.
A third viewer commented: “I’m more annoyed about the clash of Bake Off and Sewing Bee.”
However, not all viewers were upset. One person shared: “Great British Bake Off followed by Sewing Bee!!! Life doesn’t get any better!”
Bake Off is back for a new series(Image: Channel 4)
Meanwhile, another said: “Great British Bake Off and Sewing Bee both in one night, Luvley Jubbly! Enjoy your evening, all.”
The Sewing Bee is in its eighth week, and the five surviving hopefuls embarked on a cinematic journey, with three tasks drawing inspiration from iconic film moments of yesteryear.
During the pattern round, judges Esme Young and Patrick Grant challenged the finalists to recreate the blazer sported by Tippi Hedren’s character in Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary thriller The Birds.
The latest series of Sewing Bee is in its eighth week(Image: BBC)
For the transformation task, the seamsters received tiebacks and crimson theatre drapes and were challenged to convert the material into spectacular ensembles worthy of a Tinseltown premiere.
During the made-to-measure portion of the show, the participants were required to craft an ensemble for a horror film character.
The Great British Sewing Bee airs on BBC One and Bake Off is on Channel 4.
One contestant has already been sent home on this year’s Great British Bake Off as viewers didn’t think it came as a surprise following a few clues along the way
Great British Bake Off has sent home its first baker of the series(Image: Channel 4 / Laura Palmer)
Great British Bake Off fans were convinced they knew who would be the first contestant to be sent off after spotting some telling clues. The hit Channel 4 baking competition made its long awaited comeback on Tuesday night.
Judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith welcomed 12 new bakers into the iconic tent for a fresh round of the competition. However, things didn’t get off on an easy start for Cake Week.
The judges ramped things up by withholding the instructions during the technical challenge and set the bakers a tough showstopper challenge before deciding who would be first out.
Hassan became the first contestant to be sent home(Image: CHANNEL 4)
Before Prue and Paul revealed who would be going home already, some viewers were convinced they knew who it would be. One said: “I hear everyone saying Hassan has a chance but like he’s messed up 2 challenges whereas Iain has won one, unless Hassan does an amazing cake idk mannnnn.”
Another added: “Im not sure Hassan is surviving this week…” Someone else commented: “Ohhh Hassan. Poor guys caramel done him completely. Absolutely brutal.”
A fourth wrote: “If it ain’t Hassan, then Im sensing a first week ‘nobody is going’.” Sadly, it was Hassan that was sent packing after just the first episode.
After his exit, Hassan admitted: “I had a strong inkling I was out after the judging for my Showstopper, so when I heard my name, I thought ‘Damn, I guess that’s it for me then’.
“I remember Prue coming up to give us a big hug first, then turning left and having a huge queue of people lined up to give us a hug – the support from all of them felt reassuring to me and helped cheer me up a lot.”
Hassan said he would stick to his day job but continue to bake as a hobby. “In terms of my goals in the overall baking world, I don’t have any plans,” he said.
Revealing what fans can expect, host Alison teased: “You’ve got six men and six women from all over Britain. They’re all really exciting bakers. It’s not just about the baking for them. They’ve got families and really good jobs as well.”
While Prue added: “This year we had quite a lot of designers and engineers, and it showed in their baking. They were so much better at construction.”
“They just take it so seriously. It’s like a science to them, because that’s how they are within their work,” Alison continued. People are going to be blown away.
“There’s a few failures as well, as to be expected. It’s going to be so much fun. Paul’s on form, Prue’s on form, Noel is just so funny. It’s classic Bake Off. We say it every year but it’s a wonderful series.”
Before the match, British number two Norrie said he was “ready for anything” from seventh seed Djokovic – including seeing his opponent struggle with fitness issues before regaining his level.
However, the world number 35 was still not able to drag Djokovic into gruelling physical exchanges as he hoped.
Norrie briefly threatened to cause a shock when he moved a break up early in the third set.
But Djokovic instantly hit back – helped by his opponent hitting a double fault on break point – before regaining control with a precise serving game which Norrie largely failed to trouble.
Djokovic became the oldest man to reach US Open fourth round since Jimmy Connors, who was also aged 38, in 1991.
“I’m still trying to find my groove. Today I played the best I have so far in the tournament,” Djokovic said.
On his fitness, he added: “You have some ups and downs but you don’t want to reveal too much to your rivals. I’m as young and as strong as ever.”
Winning the Derby in 1971 was the crowning moment in one of the finest seasons ever seen in the saddle.
With Mill Reef he captured the Derby, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in Paris – victories that remain etched in the sport’s history.
He also claimed the Oaks, the Coronation Cup, the Ascot Gold Cup and the Lockinge, making him virtually unbeatable that year.
Although his family moved to London when he was a boy, Lewis’ roots in Wales were never forgotten.
His journey into racing began at the Waldorf Hotel, where he worked as a page boy before jump jockey Tim Molony spotted his build and suggested he try racing.
Apprenticed to Ron Smyth at Epsom, he quickly rose through the ranks, riding his first winner in 1953.
By 1957 he was first jockey at Kingsclere, enjoying big-race victories for Sir Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II.
But it was Mill Reef who defined him, the little colt who carried a Welshman to racing immortality.
Lewis went on to partner 1,880 winners in Britain, twice finishing runner-up in the jockeys’ championship and winning five Classics.
After retiring as a jockey, Lewis turned his hand to training and found success once more.
Based in Epsom, his stable included champion sprinter Lake Coniston, who stormed to glory in the 1995 July Cup.
In November 2024, Lewis’ lifelong contribution to Welsh sport was celebrated when he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Welsh Horse Racing Awards in Cardiff.
Too ill to attend in person, his daughter Mary and grandchildren Luci and Alex collected the award on his behalf.
The award was a fitting reminder of his place in Welsh sporting history.
It’s been a big year for música Mexicana. Corridos tumbados are still dominating the global charts, with a handful of established stars leading the charge — among them Fuerza Regida, Peso Pluma, Tito Double P, Junior H and genre newcomer Netón Vega.
But amid this flurry of new releases, you might have missed an album or two worthy of recognition. Here are five música Mexicana records you should check out.
Chino Pacas, “Cristian”
Chino Pacas has staked his claim to the spotlight following the release of his sophomore album, “Cristian,” which came out earlier this month. At just 18 years old, he’s amassed over 17 million monthly Spotify listeners, largely due to his uniquely gritty vocals that pair well with the genre’s thunderous instrumentation.
Now with “Cristian,” Chino Pacas looks to stand out among other corridos tumbados stars by exploring a range of sounds, including traditional banda rhythms in “No Es Un Juego” (ft. Banda Otro Pedo) and the hip hop-infused “GTO” (ft. Santa Fe Klan). (The latter’s music video is filmed in some iconic Boyle Heights locations, including Mexican deli Los Cinco Puntos and El Mercado’s Virgin Mary shrine.) Pacas also picks up the pace with his rendition of Tropicalísimo Apache’s 1993 song “Ojitos Mentirosos,” a song currently trending on TikTok; Pacas’ version has risen considerably on Mexico’s Top 50 chart on Spotify.
Armenta, “Portate Bien”
After producing some of Fuerza Regida’s most iconic hits, Armenta seized the opportunity to release his own debut album, “Portate Bien,” in early August. At its core, the project captures the depths of love and heartache across 15 melancholic tracks, carried by the Mexican singer’s crisp and bold vocals.
Sonically, the LP is a blend of corridos tumbados with the occasional touch of reggaeton and harmonious pop, which shines brightest in tracks like “Ansiedad” and “AbrilSinTi” (ft. Alex Garcia). The crooner also plays with traditional bolero rhythms for his last track “Bolerito” (ft. Manuel Medrano). Already a growing hit for the singer-songwriter is the love-struck ballad “Pensando y Pensando,” which deals with ruminating thoughts of love and loss.
Kane Rodriguez, “La Batuta”
Like many before him in the genre, newcomer Kane Rodriguez first debuted his signature raspy vocals on TikTok, where he would upload acoustic covers of popular corridos. Now the Houston native is using the same platform to promote “La Batuta,” his first album of all-original songs, which was released in April.
In a genre obsessed with flashy gimmicks, Rodriguez sticks to the traditional corrido sound across 13 tracks, setting himself apart from the crowd with his raw vocals and prickly guitar style. Like most of his contemporaries, the 22-year-old explores themes of illicit activity, touting a risqué lifestyle in popular numbers like “La Batuta” and “Morro Mañoso.” In the fierce standout track “Se Volvieron Locos,” he lambastes haters for not believing in him.
Clave Especial, “Mija No Te Asustes”
Clave Especial released their highly-anticipated debut studio album, “Mija No Te Asustes,” this past February — and the 16 hard-hitting tracks were well worth the wait. Since forming in 2021, the trio has transformed their tempered banda sound into a more boisterous affair, likely drawing inspiration from other acts on their label, Street Mob Records, led by Fuerza Regida frontman, Jesús Ortiz Paz. The LP remained on the Billboard 200 chart for 11 weeks, peaking at No. 91.
Clave Especial and Fuerza Regida join forces in their brassy mobster-core singles “Como Capo” and “No Pasa Nada.” The possessive love song “Tu Tu Tu,” which features vocalist Edgardo Nuñez, reached the top of the Regional Mexican Airplay chart just this week — marking a first for the band from Salinas, Calif. Clave Especial is set to kick off their first U.S. headlining tour this fall.
Chuy Montana, “No Fue Suerte”
In 2024, the rising corridos bélicos singer Chuy Montana was murdered in Tijuana after singing songs that authorities said “displeased his aggressor.” It’s a tragic fate that has met other legendary Mexican singers, including the narcocorrido trailblazer Chalino Sanchez in 1992. In June, Street Mob Records released Montana’s posthumous debut album, “No Fue Suerte,” after finishing his songs in close collaboration with his family.
Using his rugged vocal delivery, Montana peppers his lyrics with amusing vulgarities. His most popular song, “Qué Bendición,” tells tales of his trials and tribulations, and his mother’s blessing that follows him wherever he goes — although some songs sound haunting now, in light of Montana’s passing. Among those songs is the accordion-riddled track “Perdón Mamá” featuring Juanpa Salazar, in which Montana foreshadows his tragic death and delivers a heartbreaking, preemptive apology to his grieving mother.
The cause of this friction, Liverpool’s interest in Isak, will continue to the end of the transfer window and probably beyond.
Newcastle’s supporters were in no mood to forgive or forget how their star striker has, in their eyes, betrayed them, and they were unsparing towards the club they hold responsible as the catalyst for his desire to leave.
This is now shaping up as a conflict for the ages, especially as it is unclear how the story that has caused the antagonism will end.
Liverpool’s fans revelled in how their interest in Isak has caused such rage among the Toon Army, their chants of “Hand Him Over Newcastle” greeted with a frenzy of indignation.
Newcastle need a resolution somehow, even if fences look almost impossible to repair with Isak. They cannot allow him to be the spectre hanging over every game.
Liverpool won this particular battle, but the other big takeaway on this evidence is that they need to focus their attention on signing a defender, presumably Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, before making any definitive decision on Isak.
As against Bournemouth in their first game of the season at Anfield, Liverpool let slip a 2-0 lead before winning late on, looking horribly vulnerable in defence in the process.
The advantage they forged for themselves here flattered them as they piled up mistakes at the back and carelessly conceded possession with regularity.
Slot should be seriously concerned about how they were shaken up so badly by Newcastle’s 10 men. Indeed, before Ngumoha’s strike, it was Newcastle who looked more likely to score.
Liverpool, in only two games admittedly, have looked nothing like the side that strolled to the Premier League last season with such poise, apart from the fact they are still winning games.
Ibrahima Konate, the player most at risk from Guehi’s potential arrival and one who has yet to agree a new contract, was as uncertain as he was against Bournemouth. Slot also has yet to find the tweak to ensure he brings the best out of £116m attacker Florian Wirtz, who was substituted with 10 minutes left.
Left-back Milos Kerkez is still settling in, but the chaotic nature of Liverpool’s backline could have Slot pondering the return of the experienced Andy Robertson, who has the proven quality and greater understanding with his defensive colleagues.
Newcastle will be nursing their wounds over this loss as they try to find a way to end the Isak impasse.
This rivalry, like the discussions around Isak’s future, is one that will run and run.
A SEASIDE town made famous by former world heavy-weight boxing champ Tyson Fury is on the ropes.
Gritty ITV cop drama ‘The Bay’ attracts five million viewers, but has done nothing to restore Morecambe’s fortunes as a tourist and holidaying hotspot.
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Graffiti covers the Outdoor Market space in MorecambeCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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A man lays smoking with a can next to himCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Morecambe has long been a popular beach destinationCredit: NB PRESS LTD
Dilapidated buildings, boarded up shops, closed hotels, and vandalised shopping arcades blight the Lancashire seaside resort.
And homeless down-and-outs, swigging cans during the day, plague the streets.
Morecambe FC has been besieged with talks of going under after 105 years, with the beleaguered club enduring a chaotic summer since being relegated from League Two, with staff and players not even paid.
Some football club workers have been offered food parcels. As it stands, the National League club is on the brink of extinction, though takeover talks continue.
Eden Project Morecambe – a sister to the popular Eden bio-spheres in Cornwall – is hoped to breath new life into the area and bring tourists flocking back to the resort. But that is at least three years away.
Crime and unemployment rate in Morecambe
Morecambe is the second most dangerous medium-sized town in Lancashire and among the top 20 overall in England and Wales, according to CrimeRate.
The most common crimes in Morecambe are violence and sexual offences, with 45 reports per 1,000 people – which is 1.87 times the national average for the 12 months up to May 2025.
For the same period, Lancashire Police recorded 475 reports of criminal damage and arson in the town – or 13 per 1,000 people.
And the crime rate for drugs is 1.26 times the national average at 3.87 reports per 1,000.
Meanwhile, the unemployment rate in Lancaster and Morecambe, sits at 4.4 percent, three percent higher than the average for North West England.
Brother and sister Liam, 14, and Lola, nine, were visiting Morecambe from their native Canada and were drawn to the vandalised and graffitied former shopping arcade, which is fenced off to the public due to a rusted and collapsing roof.
They were accompanied by their aunt and nan Kay Robinson, 73, who remembers the good old days of the seaside resort.
It used to boast such attractions as the Super Swimming Stadium lido, the pleasure park Frontierland and sea life centre Marineland.
“It’s gone down hill since the 1970s,” said Kay.
“There used to be fairgrounds, illuminations, an amazing swimming pool, there used to be everything. We liked coming here better than Blackpool.
Tyson Fury, 36, claims he will ‘NEVER’ return to boxing just weeks after announcing comeback and hints at new career
“Even the outdoor market has gone now. Everything has gone or is going now.
“You can’t go round the pubs like you used to, it used to be a great night out around Morecambe, but not now.”
Visitors love taking selfies beside the statue of the late comedian Eric Morecambe, which was unveiled on the promenade by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.
Holidaymakers Paul and Alison Johnson, from Glossop, posed with grandson Ralphie, eight, as they enjoyed the summer sunshine.
Paul, 59, who has visited Morecambe over the years, said: “It seems to be getting cleaner, now this sea front has been done up.
“We have a caravan near here.”
Alison, 51 said: “It’s lovely in the sunshine.”
But directly opposite the iconic bronze tourist attraction stands reminders of the resort’s decline.
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Closed shops and rundown buildings blight the townCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Rubbish piled outside closed cafe Martin’sCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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The shuttered up Bayside EmporiumCredit: NB PRESS LTD
Standing side-by-side, Eric’s Cafe and the Tivoli Bar, are closed down at what should be the height of the summer season.
And the town centre, just a streets from the prom, is lined with abandoned shops, closed down pubs and eateries and empty banks.
A homeless rough sleeper was slouched by the entrance to the tired Arndale Centre, which stands beside a boarded-up pawnbrokers and opposite empty shops and the shell of the former Santander bank.
In a shaded doorway down a run-down street a couple of scruff-looking men, one sitting beside his crutches, were swigging from cans of super-strength Oranjeboom beers, as parents and kids walked past.
Back on the sunny promenade where the popular outdoor swimming pool, which used to be home of the Miss Great Britain beauty contest between 1956 and 1989, John and Lynda Ritchie were taking a stroll.
“This is where they are going to build the Eden centre, if it ever gets off the ground,” said John, 80, visiting with wife Lynda, 80, from Kendal.
“It can’t come soon enough. It’ll hopefully save the town.”
“We used to bring our lads here to swim in the pool, but it is such a shame what it is like now,” said Lynda.
“Hopefully things will change when the Eden Project comes, but I wish they’d hurry up, I’d like to see it.
“The place has very much gone down hill, as many seaside towns have since people started to go abroad.”
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First-time visitors David and Lynn Buswell, from LeicestershireCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Canadian visitors Liam and LornaCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Festival Market trader Karen Brown, 66, has been running her stall The Beauty Box for 50 yearsCredit: NB PRESS LTD
First-time visitors David and Lynn Buswell, from Leicestershire, were walking their Staffie Tyson – aptly named as Morecambe is the home town of former world heavyweight champ Tyson Fury – along the prom after parking up their motorhome.
“Never been here before. I’m here because my mum and dad had a photo taken with the Eric Morecambe statue and we want to recreate it,” said David, 64, a music producer.
“It looks like an average, typical English seaside town, nothing special. Okay for the kids, but not us.
“We will be parking up the motorhome for one night – not for two though. I think we will be moving on.”
Lynn, 69, said: “We have just come down from the Lake District, which was beautiful. This is a stark contrast.”
South of the town centre, the Cumberland View pub is boarded up.
Beside the former almost seafront railway station – closed now and turned into a pub – is the Festival Market.
Trains, no longer full or excited holiday makers and day trippers from West Yorkshire, now pull in to a dowdy wooden platform next to a boarded up former restaurant 500 yards of more inland.
Festival Market trader Karen Brown, 66, has been running her stall The Beauty Box for 50 years, and has seen the decline of the town. “The place has gone really down hill since the glory days. The job is tougher now,” said Karen.
“I don’t do too bad in summer with the tourists. They come to buy things. But, in winter, the locals don’t tend to to use the market. They should do, they’ll whinge if it goes.
“The visitors come round saying what a lovely market it is and they appreciate it, but the locals, not so much.”
Fellow market trader Julie Norris, 58, has run sweet stall, Sweet Tweets, for five years.
“I’m finding trading in Morecambe alright because all the other sweet shops are shutting down,” said Julie.
“The kids are coming here for their holiday treats. And we also do well from people coming here to buy snacks and sweets before going to the cinema next door.
“They don’t want to pay rip-off cinema prices so stock up here before going to see a film.
“I love working here and if the Eden Project comes it will be fantastic. It’ll be very family orientated.”
Tyson Fury
Fury is arguably the town’s biggest name, living in the area with his wife Paris and their seven children there.
Speaking last year, he told TNT: “17 years, it’s become my home. A new home, away from home. I actually cast myself now as from Morecambe, I don’t say I’m from Manchester anymore.
“It’s been keeping me grounded – I have always likened Morecambe to Alcatraz island… because if you go 200m that way you hit the sea, and if you go a couple of miles that way you hit the M6 motorway, and you’ve got to drive an hour to get to any city.
“It’s a big island, there’s not much distractions, there’s not much stuff to do, you can’t spend your money here because there’s nothing to spend it on, apart from Asda… That’s it, really, it’s a good place for a fighter…
“It’s kept me grounded, away from all the limelight.”
He added that locals are very respectful and leave him alone when he goes for runs. “If I go to any other city in the world, oomph Elvis has landed.”
The “Gypsy King” has previously expressed interest in buying Morecambe FC and told talkSPORT: “I was thinking I invest X amount of millions in them. Basically throw it at them and keep them going up. I’ve been offered to buy Morecambe Football Club.
“I own all the training facilities anyway and the training gym. So who knows? You might be looking at a football club owner.”
The Tyson Fury Foundation sits in the north-east corner of the football club’s Mazuma Mobile Stadium.
However, theTelegraphhas claimed that Fury currently has no interest in buying the Shrimps.
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Fury running along the promenade at Morecambe in 2022Credit: Alamy
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The seafront is often packed with tourists in the summer
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A sunken boat on the beachCredit: NB PRESS LTD
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Lynda and John Ritchie were taking a stroll along the promenadeCredit: NB PRESS LTD
Farm-to-fork dining may be the latest buzzword on Britain’s foodie scene, but it’s something they’ve been doing brilliantly, and without fuss or fanfare, on the continent for decades. We’d love to hear about your favourite rural food experiences in Europe, whether it be a perfect Italian agriturismo, a fabulous farmer’s market in France, or joining the festivities as the locals celebrate their favourite delicacy coming into season.
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When you live in a town where the ocean is just around the corner, it feels almost wrong to spend a sunny day anywhere but the beach. As a lifelong Santa Barbara resident, my favorite way to savor those golden afternoons is by doing exactly that: toes in the sand, waves crashing at my feet, a turkey sandwich in one hand and an Agatha Christie novel in the other. Honestly, does it get much better?
I’m here to tell you it does. Santa Barbara is a place of dual delights. And while the coastline tends to steal the spotlight, I’d be remiss if I didn’t also shine some light on the other side of town that visitors often overlook. Because here, we’re not just flanked by sea; we’re also cradled by mountains, which means that in under 20 minutes, you can go from your beach towel to hitting the trail.
That unique geography is what makes our mountains stand out. Unlike most of California’s coastline, where mountain ranges tend to stretch north to south, the Santa Ynez Mountains run east to west. This rare alignment creates dramatic, side-by-side views of both the Pacific Ocean and the mountains — especially breathtaking from higher elevations during sunrise or sunset.
About This Guide
Our journalists independently visited every spot recommended in this guide. We do not accept free meals or experiences. What should we check out next? Send ideas to [email protected].
And if that doesn’t convince you to trade your beach nap for an uphill trek — and you happen to be a nature enthusiast — know that Santa Barbara is one of the most biodiverse regions in the state, boasting a variety of breathtaking flora and fauna. Take the Matilija poppy, for example: visually striking and curiously reminiscent of a cracked egg. Or consider the California scrub jay, whose vibrant cobalt feathers never fail to turn heads.
While it’s hardly a novel take, I’ve always believed that the best way to explore a place is by immersing yourself in its terrain. Sure, the beach is tempting, and I don’t blame anyone for choosing the comfort of the sand over a sweaty excursion. But as someone who’s hiked every trail on this list, I urge you to give the mountains a chance — if not for the stunning views, then for the adventure.
SHOPPERS are rushing to snap up a £13 Sainsbury’s summer dress, that is super flattering on all body types.
With just a few weeks left of the school summer holidays, many Brits are likely hoping to make the most of the hot weather, with days out at the beach and last-minute trips abroad.
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Shoppers are raving about this gorgeous summer dressCredit: Sainsbury’s
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The stylish frock is already sold out in some sizesCredit: Sainsbury’s
And what better way to get yourself excited for summer plans, than to treat yourself to a brand new frock.
Sainsbury’s Tu is one of the best-loved brands on the high street, and is constantly wowing us with its stylish but affordable fashion.
From cute dresses to on-trend work attire, the supermarket fast-fashion range always hits the mark, and its summer collection is no exception.
Elegant summer dress
One dress in particular that has caught the eye of fashion fans is the Yellow Square Neck Poplin Midaxi Dress which has been slashed from £26 to £13, a saving of 50%.
Read more fashion stories
The stunning frock is perfect for those with bigger busts, as it has chunky straps, meaning you can wear a supportive bra underneath.
It is made with a lightweight fabric, which will keep you cool on hot summer days, and even has pockets, so you don’t even have to take a bag out with you.
Pair the bright-coloured gown with chunky wedge sandals and eye-catching accessories for a statement holiday look.
The dress is available in a wide range of sizes, from size six to size 24.
However, it has proved so popular with fashion fans that it is sold out in some sizes, so you better be quick to snap up the deal.
Shoppers have been raving about the summer frock on the Sainsbury’s website.
One customer said: “I really like the cut and colour of this dress and it has thick shoulder straps so you can wear your regular bra.”
A second said: “I loved this dress from the moment I spotted it in store and thus I purchased it the second I was able to!
“Fabric wise this dress is very much a summer wear, though I suspect if you layer just right you could well push it into winter.”
A third shopper wrote: “This is a lovely dress. Lovely material.
“I’m a size 12 and it fitted perfectly.”
A fourth remarked: “This lovely dress is made out of quality material, in a triumphant colour and cut beautifully.
Is supermarket fashion the new high street?
DEPUTY Fashion Editor Abby McHale weighs in:
The supermarkets have really upped their game when it comes to their fashion lines. These days, as you head in to do your weekly food shop you can also pick up a selection of purse-friendly, stylish pieces for all the family.
Tesco has just announced a 0.7 per cent increase in the quarter thanks to a ‘strong growth in clothing’ and M&S has earnt the title of the number one destination for womenswear on the high street.
Asda’s clothing line George has made £1.5 million for the supermarket in 2023, 80 per cent of Sainsbury’s clothes sold at full price rather than discounted and Nutmeg at Morrisons sales are also up 2 per cent in the past year.
So what is it about supermarket fashion that is becoming so successful?
Apart from the clothing actually being affordable, it’s good quality too – with many being part of schemes such as the Better Cotton Initiative.
A lot of the time they keep to classic pieces that they know will last the customer year after year.
Plus because they buy so much stock they can turn around pieces quickly and buy for cheaper because of the volumes.
The Great British Sewing Bee contestant was in tears after his design was praised, as it shared a link to his late mother
Patrick Grant praised the “stunning” final piece(Image: BBC)
A Great British Sewing Bee contestant broke down in tears after judges hailed his “beautiful” creation, which carried a poignant connection to his late mum.
Judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young set the sewers a challenge this week to craft garments using reused and recycled materials, with many contestants bringing along old family clothing.
Durham-based stitcher Dan, who started sewing aged just 10, gathered a collection of matching Christmas t-shirts his family had worn in 2022.
His plan was to transform them into a single halter-neck dress, complete with a faux-fur muff.
Discussing the accessory, he revealed: “This was a shawl that I made for my mum that she only wore once, unfortunately she passed away,” reports Wales Online.
Dan wiped away tears as his “personal” design was praised(Image: BBC)
“So I thought it’d be really nice to have her touch.”
When his finished creation was unveiled, Dan’s garment was described as “beautiful” and he even claimed Garment of the Week honours.
“I’m glad I did this, because I wanted my mum to be represented,” he wept.
He later reflected: “This week has been insane, I can’t believe all the good comments they said.
Dan transformed some family pyjamas into a halter-neck dress(Image: BBC)
“It was really nice they got my vision and knew where I was going with it, especially this one in particular, it was really personal to me.”
Patrick also lauded Dan’s finished piece, declaring: “It’s absolutely stunning and such a beautiful story behind it.
“The perfect way to go from an unwanted pile of old pyjamas into this beautiful, beautiful outfit.”
Following his victory, Dan said: “I’ve just got to trust my instincts and go with it. I’m glad that I did it on this week, where it was something so personal.”
Dan paid tribute to his late mum with the design(Image: BBC)
Viewers were moved by the story behind his design, with one commenting: “Dan that dress was absolutely amazing mate. Thoroughly deserved garment of the week.”
Another viewer expressed: “Really pleased for Dan,” while another added: “Definitely want to give Dan a huge cuddle.”
“Dan smashed it this week!” a fourth fan praised, while another admirer commented: “Well done Dan, that looked really good.”
The Great British Sewing Bee airs Tuesdays at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
