Holidays

THIRTEEN security guards kidnapped from a major gold mine have been found dead after being kept hostage for a week.

The security staff disappeared in the mountains near Pataz, northern Peru, as bloody mining turf war grips the region.

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The group has been sent out to confront a group of illegal miners in the area, but were attacked and snatched.

Throughout the week, the gang sent threatening messages to the victims’ families.

The mining company that employed the workers, La Poderosa, said search-and-rescue teams recovered their remains on Sunday.

The company said on Sunday: “This morning, after intense search efforts, the police rescue team was able to recover the bodies of the 13 workers who were kidnapped […] by illegal miners in collusion with criminal element.”

It continued: “The spiral of uncontrolled violence in Pataz is occurring despite the declaration of a state of emergency and the presence of a large police contingent which, unfortunately, has not been able to halt the deterioration of security conditions in the area.”

Peru‘s interior ministry said organised crime investigators were probing the deaths, and vowed its agents were “fully empowered to use their firearms if the circumstances warrant it”.

In the city of Trujillo, west of Pataz, some of the victims’ relatives waited for the bodies of their loved ones to be transferred to the morgue there.

Abraham Dominguez, whose son Alexander was found dead, told channel Canal N: “We want justice, that this doesn’t just stop here.”

Peru declared a state of emergency last month after being plagued by a wave of violent crime – with the mining industry a particularly vicious battleground.

La Poderosa said 39 of its workers had been killed by criminal groups fighting for control of the mines around Pataz since it began operations there in the 1980s.

In December 2023, illegal miners attacked the same site with explosives, killing nine people and wounding at least 20.

A gang armed with explosives and other weapons burst into the mine, taking four people hostage.

Bodies recovered from outside the mine showed signs of burns resulting from the detonation of explosive devices.

The attackers raided the mine, “violently confronting internal security personnel from the company“, Peru’s interior ministry said at the time.

At least seven arrests were made and weapons seized following that attack.

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La Poderosa drafted in more security guards in response to the string of attacks.

Following the 2023 assault, Angela Grossheim, the head of the mining industry group SNMPE, said: “Formal mining is under attack.

“Illegal mining today is the country’s main illicit activity, even bigger than drug trafficking.”

Peru is a major gold and copper supplier for the world.

It has an unusual tolerance for illegal miners, which it allows to operation with some protections as they plan to legalize their operations.

Illegal mining boomed into a lucrative industry as the metals became more lucrative and new mining techniques emerged.

The Peruvian government has struggled to mount a response – and the turf wars are increasingly lawless.

THE Sopranos actor Charley Scalies has died aged 84, after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

Charley, who also starred in The Wire, passed away at a Pennsylvania nursing home on Thursday, his family has revealed.

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An obituary posted on Legacy read: “Best known first and foremost as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.”

It added that the actor’s “favourite audience was always seated around the dinner table”.

The actor starred as Tony Soprano’s high school football coach, Coach Molinaro, in the fifth installment of the hit show – The Test Dream.

He also appeared in 12 episodes of The Wire as Thomas “Horseface” Pakusa.

In a 2019 interview, the Philadelphian actor said of the role: “As with all the other characters I’ve been blessed to portray, Horseface lives inside of me.

“I invite him out to play as needed.”

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

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ISRAEL has vowed to hit back hard against the Houthis after they bombed its main airport with a missile on Sunday morning.

Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation against the Houthis and “their Iranian terror masters”, and it was officially approved by the security cabinet.

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On X, Netanhyayu said that Israel would strike back “at a time and place of our choosing”.

And in a video message, he warned: “This isn’t a one-and-done, but there will be some big hits.”

He also reminded the world that Israel had punished the Houthis in the past – and would do again in the future.

Israel is said to be rethinking its policy of not striking Houthi targets in Yemen, adopted at the request of President Trump.

The Iranian-backed Houthis launched a devastating strike on the Ben Gurion Airport on the outskirts of the capital Tel Aviv.

Chilling video captured the moment the ballistic missile soared through the sky before exploding as it hit the ground.

A huge plume of black smoke billowed high into the sky.

At least eight people were injured by the attack, according to officials, but no one was killed.

Passengers in the terminal were sent into panic and air traffic was suspended for up to an hour.

Some European and US airlines have cancelled flights to the airport for the next few days.

Many had only recently begun to resume services to Israel after the Gaza ceasefire, which put an eight-weeks pause on the fighting.

The Israeli Defence Force said that it made several attempts to intercept the missile, but was unable to do so.

They are now investigating the incident with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu set to hold talks over the attack at 3pm local time today.

Israel’s powerful Iron Dome is responsible for thwarting enemy missiles before they hit.

Operators across the country work around the clock to fend off relentless attacks and the consistent threat of bombardment from Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.

An IDF commander told The Sun last month that the Iron dome has a 96 per cent success rate, so Sunday’s failure will be closely scrutinised.

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The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack straight away, and the IDF confirmed it came from Yemen.

Sunday strike and the incoming retaliation mark a major escalation between Israel and the Houthis in both Yemen and Iran.

National Unity chairman Benny Gantz insisted Iran must be held responsible.

The former defence minister said on X: “This is not Yemen, this is Iran. It is Iran that is firing ballistic missiles at the State of Israel, and it must bear responsibility.

“The Israeli government must wake up.”

Meanwhile, Israel has begun calling up tens of thousands of reservists to “intensify and expand” its military action in Gaza.

The IDF said it was “increasing the pressure” with the aim of returning hostages held in Gaza and defeating Hamas militants.

The Security Council was expected to approve the intensification of the war when it met on Sunday.

Who are the Houthis?

THE Houthi rebels have spent months terrorising the Red Sea by launching persistent missile and drone attacks on vessels and warships – but who are they?

The Shia militant group, which now controls large swaths of Yemen, spent over a decade being largely ignored by the world.

However, since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, they sprung from relative obscurity to holding roughly £1trillion of world trade hostage – turning one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes into an active warzone.

Their warped battle cry is “Death to America, Death to Israel, curse the Jews and victory to Islam”.

Why are they attacking ships?

After the October 7 massacre, Houthis began launching relentless drone and missile attacks on any ships – including warships – they deem to be connected with Israel in solidarity with their ally, Hamas.

In reality, they targeted commercial vessels with little or no link to Israel – forcing global sea traffic to largely halt operations in the region and sending shipping prices around the world soaring.

The sea assaults added to the carnage in the Middle East tinderbox as intense ripples from Israel’s war in Gaza were felt across the region – with Iran accused of stoking the chaos.

The Houthi chiefs pledged their Red Sea attacks would continue until Israel stopped its offensive in Gaza.

The group’s chiefs have previously said their main targets are Israel, and its allies the US and Britain.

And despite repeated threats from the West and joint US and UK strikes blitzing their strongholds in Yemen – Iran’s terror proxy appears undeterred.

The UK and US have hit Houthi bases as recently as this month after the terror group once again targeted boats in the shipping lane.

Israel has also hammered the group with airstrikes, reportedly hitting oil storage tanks at the port in Al Hudaydah. 

CHELSEA took a big stride towards Champions League qualification by beating Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Fernandez gave the Blues a third minute lead against the newly-crowned title winners, with a Jarell Quansah own goal doubling Chelsea’s advantage in the second half.

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Virgil van Dijk pulled one back late on for the Reds.

But Chelsea were able to hold on for a priceless three points, with Cole Palmer ending his goal drought from the penalty spot late on.

THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..

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DICTATOR Vladimir Putin has showed off his private chapel and his favourite drink in a bizarre tour of his Kremlin apartment.

The Russian tyrant gave the public a glimpse into his home in an interview marking the 25th anniversary of his first inauguration as president.

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The bizarre footage shows Putin giving his favourite interviewer, Pavel Zarubin, a tour of the apartment while answering his questions.

When asked about his grandchildren from daughters Maria, 39, and Katerina, 37, Putin says they occasionally visit him unexpectedly in his austere apartment. 

He said: “They can, they can.

“But still everyone understands that I have such an around-the-clock schedule, and they try to give advance notice, [and] ask when I’ll have a little window to see them.”

Zarubin follows up and asks if he is a strict grandfather to which the 72-year-old responds: “No, no!”

Putin did not name his grandchildren but it is known his eldest grandson Roman, 12 – born to his daughter Maria – is half-Dutch, by her first husband Jorrit Faassen, the son of a NATO colonel.

The pair then make a stop in the kitchen where Putin is seen getting a bottle of kefir from his German Liebherr fridge, before offering some to Zarubin.

The dictator claimed he copes in the kitchen alone before admitting: “Well, the guys [adjutants] come, they help.

“But now, what for? We’ll pour the kefir ourselves.”

Kefir is a traditional Russian sour milk associated with gut health, immunity, and longevity – suggesting he is trying to show he’s patriotic and staying fit. 

Putin is later asked about unleashing nuclear war against Ukraine or the West – a question often raised by Russian propagandists. 

Zarubin asks: “When [Ukraine and the West] provoke us, provoke us, provoke us – they even started hitting us with NATO missiles.

“And many people had this desire…to strike back.

“Why such cold-bloodedness these three years? Because everything would have ended in nuclear war in that case?”

Mad Vlad replied: “You said it right – they wanted to provoke us.

“They wanted to make us make mistakes.

“Well, and there was no need to use the weapons you’re talking about – and, I hope, there won’t be.

“We have enough strength and means to bring what was started in 2022 [the war against Ukraine] to a logical conclusion with a result that suits Russia.”

The Russian leader also gave a glimpse into his gold-gilded chapel where he claims he fell to his knees to pray after the Nord-Ost siege in 2002.

He said: “Here is [my] little home chapel.”

He continued: “Back then, during the Nord-Ost crisis, I, for the first time in my life, knelt.”

Hundreds of hostages died in the Nord-Ost siege, mainly from gas used by Putin’s pawns, and up to 50 militants were also killed.

Putin also admitted that he often has to restrain himself from a craving to punch people. 

Zarubin asked: “On the outside, you always seem very cold-blooded and reserved — don’t you ever get the urge to, as they say, punch someone?”

Putin replied: “Always….I live with it. But I fight it.”

Finally, Putin revealed that he is always thinking about who to crown as his successor and hinted at a potential leadership contest.

He said: “I always think about that.

“In the end, people can have whatever attitude they want toward this, but ultimately, yes, in the final analysis, the choice belongs to the people – the Russian people, the citizens, the voters.”

He suggested that the outcome could be skewed with “election technologies” and “administrative resources”.

But he said: “The chances of truly achieving something are slim for a person who doesn’t have the trust of the people behind them.

“That’s a fundamental issue.

“So when I think about this – and I think about it all the time – of course I think that a person should emerge, or better yet several people, so the people have a choice.

“Someone who could earn that trust from the citizens of the country.”

Zarubin probed: “But you’re constantly observing and assessing the potential of each person, right?”

And Putin simply replied: “Yes. That’s right.”

The bizarre interview – “Russia, Kremlin, Putin, 25 years” – was intended to reveal new personal details about the notoriously secretive Putin.

The dictator claimed the apartment has been his main base during the war against Ukraine, but it looked far from homely.

Ironically, a large portrait of Russian Emperor Alexander III is sat on a desk when the two open the doors on the left side.

Dubbed “The Peacemaker” the Russian Tsar fought no major wars during his reign – a far cry from Putin’s rule.

But the emperor was also known for tight censorship, empowering the Russian secret police, cracking down on political dissenters, revolutionaries, and nationalist movements, including Ukrainians – all of which may appeal to Putin.

Putin became president on the last day of 1999 and served from 1999 to 2008, before serving as prime minister until 2012.

The former KGB lieutenant colonel then became president for a second time in 2012

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Google searches for ‘Greek island hidden gems’ have risen by 100% in the past three months, with people looking to avoid the crowds at more well-known destinations

As the summer season inches closer, folks across the nation are busy pencilling in their holiday itineraries for this year or even mapping out plans for the next.

It seems that Greece is enjoying quite the buzz, with searches for ‘Greek island hidden gems’ on Google surging by 100% over the past three months.

Claire Shields, Base Manager at Sunsail, is unveiling her top picks for Greek islands that she reckons are brimming with untouched splendour and serene vibes.

Her selections include Kastos, described as a “floating village” where “time slows down,” Atokos, which stands uninhabited with wild pigs freely wandering, and Paxos, deemed one of the Ionian Sea’s least commercialised spots, offering picturesque vistas that turn it into an “artist’s paradise.”

Six ‘hidden gem’ Greek islands

Lefkas

Claire highlights Lefkas as “one of Greece’s best hidden gems”, pointing to its spellbinding natural wonders, genuine Greek atmosphere, and spectacular beaches minus the throngs found on more popular islands. Conveniently reached with Preveza airport just a hop away and solid links to the mainland, Lefkas is a prime choice.

Aside from its striking beauty, Claire asserts Lefkas is host to “some of the best beaches in the world,” advising visitors to make tracks to Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma. Don’t miss out on Sivota’s quaint harbour, nestled among olive grove-clad hills and dotted with isolated villas, reports the Express.

Meganisi

“Meganisi is a small island near Lefkas with hidden coves and sea caves, great for sailing, seafood and snorkelling,” the expert reveals. “It is one of the few Ionian islands that remain untouched by mass tourism, which is why it’s such an underrated hidden gem.”

This island boasts an authentic Greek atmosphere, complete with fishing villages, quaint family-owned tavernas, and subterranean caves ready to be discovered. The island’s most notable cave, Papanikolis Cave, served as a submarine hideout during World War 2 and is accessible only by the sea.

Atokos

Atokos, a privately owned, uninhabited isle nestled between Lefkada and Ithaca, welcomes travellers. Its pristine beauty offers a tranquil retreat and makes for a picturesque visit.

On its eastern side lies One House Bay, famous for its resident wild pigs, presenting a quirky and unique attraction amidst the Greek archipelago.

Kalamos and Kastos

Close to the coast of Lefkada stand the petite islands Kalamos and Kastos. Forested with pines, Kalamos exudes tranquillity, whereas Kastos boasts just a single village. Sailing around Kalamos reveals secluded beaches, hidden sea caves, and flawless spots for swimming in solitude.

For those seeking a ‘slow living’ experience during their getaway, Kalamos is the perfect destination. Free from bustling beach bars and large resorts, you’ll meander along local tavernas serving up freshly caught fish, house-made wine and locally grown vegetables.

Claire describes Kastos, with its mere 100 permanent residents, as nearly a “floating village.” She adds: “With only one small harbour, a cluster of stone houses and a few tavernas, time seems to slow down here. You’ll also find unspoilt beaches with clear turquoise water only reachable by boat or by foot.”

Paxos

Paxos is seen as the least commercial of the Ionian Islands, which Claire dubs an “artist’s paradise.” She divulges: “It’s a perfect place to wind down; nothing is done quickly here.

“Sit and drink an iced coffee in one of the seafront cafes, watch a local fisherman bring his catch in to sell or queue in the local bakery for your fresh bread baked in a wood oven. This is the beauty of Paxos.”

Agifa Efimia

Agia Efimia, a stunning fishing village on the east coast of Kefalonia, offers another chance for visitors to embrace some slow living. Here, people can unwind while watching beautiful boats navigating the marina and sampling local treats from waterside cafes and bars.

Concluding her insights, Claire remarks: “Want to channel your inner adventurer? There’s still plenty to be explored here as there are two sets of caves, the Drogarti inland and the Melisani caves, which you can be taken to by a boatman.

“Many describe this as entering Hades itself. The water is dark and inky with turquoise patches where the sun hits, and the caves are linked to the Melisani Lake further inland by underwater passages.”

A CRICKETER left a commentator stunned after his PHONE fell out of his pocket while taking a run.

Tom Bailey may not have been completely ready to bat when he was called upon as No.10 in Lancashire‘s clash with Gloucestershire.

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The County Championship clash was taking place at the Old Trafford Cricket Ground.

Bailey, 34, would have started the match hoping to help Lancashire turn around their poor start to the season, which has been three defeats.

However, he caught the eye while he was batting as his phone fell from his pocket during a run.

As he attempted to score his first runs of his innings, the mobile fell at the non-striker’s end just a few feet from the umpire.

The phone was picked up by bowler Josh Shaw but it was not clear if he handed it to the umpire or back to Bailey.

The moment left the commentators stunned.

One said: “Something has dropped out of his pocket. I think it’s his mobile phone.”

While the other responded: “No way.”

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It was then said: “As much as it is hilarious and we are laughing about it, I almost wonder if that’s going to have to be reported.

“The fact that he was out in the middle, with a mobile phone in his pocket haha.”

The moment was caught on camera and has gone viral on social media.

Fans could not help but see the funny side as they shared their reaction.

Former England cricket ace Alex Tudor reacted with a face-palm emoji.

A fan wrote: “So village.”

A second commented: “Rubbish thigh pad.”

Another added: “Must be obsessed with counting his steps.”

Despite having his phone in his pocket, Bailey managed to score a respectable 22 runs not out.

Lancashire finished their first innings with a score of 450 runs with Marcus Harris the pick with 167 runs off 269 balls.

IT was an ordinary day when Mount Vesuvius plastered nearby towns in thick volcanic ash 2,000 years ago.

A treasure trove of objects was buried, each giving an insight into the lives people led.

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Butchered giraffe

In the drains beneath the long-gone markets of Pompeii, archaeologists have found a rich variety of foods – from sea urchin to shellfish.

But perhaps the most exotic find was the leg joint of a butchered giraffe.

It is thought to be the only giraffe bone ever recorded from an archaeological excavation in Roman Italy, according to archaeologist Steven Ellis, who directs the University of Cincinnati’s excavations at Pompeii.

The discoveries point to busy trade relationships outside of Italy.

“How part of the animal, butchered, came to be a kitchen scrap in a seemingly standard Pompeian restaurant not only speaks to long-distance trade in exotic and wild animals, but also something of the richness, variety and range of a non-elite diet,” explains Ellis.

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Glass brain

In Herculaneum, a town to the west of Mount Vesuvius, two bizarre pieces of dark-coloured glass were found inside the skulls of two individuals.

The first piece of glass suspected to be of ‘organic origin’ was identified in Herculaneum in 2020.

A glassy, black material was found inside the skull of a man on a wooden bed, who was buried by volcanic ash.

While the second was hunk of black glass was found earlier this year.

Experts believe these are fossilised brains, caused by the extreme heat from the short-lived ash cloud that swept through the ancient town of Herculaneum in 79CE.

Herculaneum was buried under roughly five times the amount of ash that Pompeii was.

Similarly, the second victim had also been lying on their bed when the cloud descended.

For the brain to become glass, it must have been heated to above 510°C before quickly cooling.

This is an incredibly rare process is called vitrification.

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Cheeky art

The Romans’ affinity for brothels, alcohol, and pornography has been well documented and discovered among the ruins of Pompeii.

Hundreds of sexually explicit works of art from Pompeii have been placed in the Secret Museum in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.

These include graphic sex scenes – which experts believe could be advertisements for local brothels – as well as lots of phallic statuary, believed to bring wealth, fertility, and good luck.

Some of these pieces were so cheeky that they were deemed “pornographic” in 1821, and the museum closed the room to visitors in 1849.

The Secret Museum didn’t reopen for good until 2000.

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Graffiti

Pompeiians were politically active – and they have the graffiti to show for it.

There was an upcoming election when the city was buried by Mount Vesuvius.

Political slogans and messages of support for candidates can still be seen preserved on the walls today.

Though it wasn’t just political statements being plastered around.

Last May, charcoal wall drawings were unearthed that archaeologists believe were made by children as young as five.

The drawings, which were of children’s height, suggest they had attended gruesome gladiator battles in the city.

The simple etchings depict men with shields and spears fighting animals and each other.

Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, said children of the time would have come into contact with extreme forms of speculated violence.

This includes the frequent executions of criminals and slaves.

“We came to the conclusion that in all likelihood the drawings of the gladiators and hunters were made on the basis of a direct vision and not from pictorial models,” he said in a statement at the time.

“Probably one or more of the children who played in this courtyard, among the kitchens, latrine and flowerbeds for growing vegetables, had witnessed fights in the amphitheatre.”

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Surgical tools

Archaeologists have also recovered surgical instruments from Pompeii – which paint a squeamish picture of medical practices in 79 AD.

Medical tools have been found in various parts of the excavated city, but most most were found at a structure known as the House of the Surgeon.

While the Romans had not yet developed germ theory, many of the tools were made of copper alloys.

Copper has antimicrobial properties – meaning the tools may have prevented infections.

AMAZON has officially updated customers on a change coming to millions of its speakers.

More than 100,000 people are understood to already be using Alexa+, which was unveiled at an AI event in New York last year.

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The new and ultra-smart version of Alexa, hailed as “remarkable” by Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, promises a more human-like interaction thanks to generative AI.

That might sound small compared to the 600 million Alexa devices worldwide, but it marks a big step forward. Alexa+, first introduced in February, is being gradually expanded to more users over the coming months.

This upgraded assistant is designed to handle more complex tasks: from booking restaurants to suggesting recipes and managing smart home gadgets, all with less user effort.

It’s a big shift away from the old Alexa’s scripted answers.

Instead, Alexa+ generates responses on the fly, much like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini, making conversations feel smoother and more responsive.

However, many of the headline-grabbing features shown in early demos are still missing.

According to Tech Edt, Alexa+ can’t yet generate bedtime stories, recommend gifts, or place food delivery orders through services like Grubhub.

Jassy admitted during the May 2 earnings call that Alexa+ remains “primitive,” with multi-step task accuracy currently sitting between 30 per cent and 60 per cent.

Still, Amazon’s goal is to push that figure to 90 per cent as its Nova Act browsing engine improves.

Amazon’s hardware chief Panos Panay described the new Alexa as knowing “almost every instrument in your life” — from smart home devices and mobile apps to the people you’re connected with.

That means Alexa+ should, eventually, help you handle everything from turning off the lights and adjusting your thermostat to ordering dinner or finding the perfect birthday gift.

But it’s not just about what Alexa+ can do — it’s also about how it does it.

The assistant now speaks with more expressive, natural voices, and it’s better at handling pauses, stumbles, and emotional cues in your speech.

For example, if you start a sentence and change your mind halfway, Alexa+ should still understand.

That said, the rollout hasn’t been entirely smooth.

Some features expected at launch have been delayed because they didn’t meet Amazon’s release standards.

The Washington Post reported that functions like visual recognition of family members, personalised chore reminders, and certain U.S.-only services like Grubhub ordering have been pushed back by at least two months.

Another controversial point is data management.

While Alexa+ can now read and summarise uploaded documents — such as legal contracts or family recipes, users currently can’t delete these files on their own.

Instead, they must contact Amazon support, and even then, some data might remain on record.

Only newer Echo Show devices (like the Echo Show 8, 10, and 15) currently support Alexa+, meaning owners of older Echo models or certain Fire TV products will need to upgrade if they want to access the new assistant.

There’s also a web version at Alexa.com, but a related project known internally as Metis — a chatbot designed to compete with ChatGPT — hasn’t launched yet.

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A BRIT mum who was brutally murdered in a French village had begun a new relationship and was planning to divorce her husband, a friend claimed.

Karen Carter, 69, died from severe blood loss after being stabbed multiple times outside her home in Trémolat on Tuesday.

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Karen’s body was discovered by her friend Jean-Francois Guerrier – who she is believed to have been in a relationship with.

The pair had spent the evening at a popular café-bar in the village, around 10 minutes drive from Karen’s home.

Jean-Francois had only left her for “10 minutes” before she was killed in the savage attack, according to Begerac prosecutor Sylvie Martin-Guedes.

A British expat pal of Karen’s confirmed her relationship with Jean-Francois and added that she was planning to divorce her husband Alan Carter.

The friend said: “I heard that she was trying to divorce her husband in South Africa but he wasn’t keen on that.

“Karen had apparently been in a relationship with Jean-Francois Guerrier for a few weeks, it was really early days.

“They worked together closely at the Cafe Village. Jean-Francois was up until a month ago the chairman of the village committee that was based at the cafe.”

She added: “By all accounts she was very happy in that new relationship but she kept it quiet and was quite modest about it.”

One of Karen’s neighbours also hinted at the new relationship.

He told how he had been watching Arsenal take on PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday night when he saw cops turn up. 

Christophe – who did not give his surname – said: “I heard no screams and no shouting.

“The first I knew something had happened was when all the blue lights from the police flashed past some time before 10:30pm on the Tuesday night.

“I’d seen her walking up the road last Friday afternoon around 5pm.

“She was walking towards her house with Jean-Francois.

“They weren’t holding hands but they looked like they were together as a couple.”

Karen was married to Alan, 65, but the couple were said to be estranged and he was away in South Africa at the time of the killing, according to investigators.

Alan, who remains at the couple’s home in East London, South Africa, expressed shock and surprise at revelations that his wife may have started a new relationship.

He insisted that the pair were simply friends and said: “There was no relationship. He was just a friend of hers.”

Karen and Alan had owned their holiday home in Trémolat for 15 years, splitting time between France and South Africa.

Speaking from their home in East London, South Africa, Alan said he learned of his wife’s death via a Facebook post read by a cousin who also lives in Trémolat.

“She phoned me… to say she’s sorry to tell me and that she thinks Karen has died. That was the first I heard about it,” he said.

“No one had got in touch with me at all to let me know what had happened. I found out through my cousin who happened to see it on a Facebook page.”

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The former London Stock Exchange worker paid tribute to his late wife, describing her as “such a decent, lovely person”.

He said his wife of 30 years was an outgoing, friendly person who “wouldn’t hurt a fly”, and said her death has been “traumatic” for his family.

Mr Carter told the BBC: “I’m an introvert, and she’s the exact opposite. She’s an extrovert, she loves people, she loves to have fun. People love her, she has a good heart.

“She’s the one who would bring home the lost dog, or cat, or whatever. She’s that sort of person. Everyone liked her. That’s why I married her. She’s just lovely.”

A number of unanswered questions still surround Karen’s mysterious death, as the cops continue their investigations.

Forensics officers returned to the crime scene on Friday morning for further examinations, arriving in a police van and an unmarked SUV.

And the cottage remains cordoned off – with a police notice taped to the front door of the property.

A team of around ten police officers were also spotted searching the nearby woodland for fresh clues on Friday afternoon.

It is thought they were looking for the murder weapon.

The team also cordoned off the road outside her home and a helicopter was seen circling the village as they reportedly reconstructed the murder scene.

The lead prosecutor on the case said the investigation continues to focus on “people who were likely have a grudge against the victim, or the couple she formed with her friend”.

Prosecutors previously investigated other possible motives – including robbery. 

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The UK Foreign Office has advised travellers to be prepared for travel to this EU country – as well as others – ahead of the implementation of a new security system

Britons travelling to Portugal will soon be subject to a new security measure. Later this year, the European Commission will begin a phased rollout of a new Entry/Exit System (EES) which will replace traditional passport checks with biometric data registration.

The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel alert for UK tourists as Portugal joins twenty other European countries in introducing the new EES in October 2025. Since Brexit, UK travellers have been considered ‘third-party nationals’ in the EU so they will be required to submit fingerprints and a facial scan upon arrival at borders in Portugal and other Schengen Area countries.

The system was originally meant to be implemented across EU borders in November 2024. However, the launch was postponed after Germany and France both raised concerns about preparedness.

READ MORE: UK Foreign Office confirms everything Spanish airports demand from British tourists

The EES is being implemented to enhance border security and increase the efficiency of entry procedures. Another goal of the new system is to better identify travellers who have exceeded their permitted stay and better prevent irregular immigration and terrorist offences.

While the EES aims to improve safety and reduce illegal migration, travellers are likely to encounter longer queues as the system rolls out, especially at high-traffic crossings in Lisbon, Faro, and Porto. The Foreign Office has advised UK travellers to be prepared for these changes.

The European Commission advises that the process can be made quicker if you register some of your data in advance. You can do so at a dedicated self-service system (if available at your border crossing point).

You will not need to register your data every time you cross the border. After the initial biometric data recording, a digital file will be created with your information which passport control officers can use to verify (as opposed to collect) your fingerprints and photo. The EES will store these individual data files for 3 years and 1 day from the date of your last exit (or refusal of entry) into the EU.

EU travellers who already hold a short-stay visa won’t have to have their biometric data stored again on the EES, as their fingerprints are registered in the Visa Information System (VIS). Sadly, for passport stamp collectors, the new system means that passports will no longer be stamped by hand at border crossings.

Instead, each visitor’s arrival and departure will be logged digitally through a secure central database. This digital record will help border officials determine how long a person has stayed and whether they’ve exceeded the 90-day limit permitted for short-term visits.

The EES will record and store the following in each digital file:

• data listed in your travel document(s) (e.g. full name, date of birth, etc.)
• date and place of each entry and exit
• facial image and fingerprints (called ‘biometric data’)
• whether you were refused entry.

Widely known as a budget-friendly airline, Ryanair breaks down its “dynamic” booking prices and what factors affect your final bill, some of which are in your control

Taxes, fees, optional services, and even the currency of the country of your departure airport all play a factor in the final price of your flight booking.

If you are a frequent flyer, you probably tend to scour flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to ensure the best deal, and have probably seen how much the same flights can fluctuate in price.

Known as a budget airline, Ryanair is popular with flyers planning cost-friendly flights. However, it acknowledges that the prices may change, quite instantly, depending on a few factors including the route and when you’re travelling.

The airline states in its terms and conditions that: “Our prices are dynamic and adjusted according to demand and they may vary according to the route and travel date selected. Due to the high volume of bookings being made in real time, fares and prices for optional services such as baggage and reserved seats may change between the time you start searching for your ticket and the time you decide to make a purchase.”

READ MORE: Every new Ryanair route coming to UK airports this summer

Under the taxes, fees & charges section of its policies, Ryanair also says that passengers must pay any government taxes (including but not limited to air passenger duty) and that it may be included in your ticket price.

The airlines states: “Our higher ticket prices generally include government taxes, while our lower ticket prices do not. If your ticket price includes government taxes, they will be displayed in the price break-down at the time you make your booking.”

Ryanair also explains what impact booking on a third-party site may have on your booking cost. “Our ticket prices do not include any other third party fees and charges for costs we incur to provide our services (such as airport and security charges, maintenance fees etc.). We bear the costs for these services,” confirms the airline.

Another factor that affects your final booking price is the currency in which you complete your transaction. According to Ryanair’s policies: “You must pay fares, taxes, fees and charges in the currency of the country of your airport of departure, unless we specify another currency when (or before) you make your payment (for example, because the local currency cannot be converted). We may agree to accept payment in another currency.”

The airline does confirm that, at the time of booking, it guarantees the currency exchange rate. “We guarantee the currency exchange rate for your payment at the time you book your ticket. This exchange rate will not change,” it added.

The airline continues: “If you do not accept our currency exchange rate you may be affected by any increase in exchange rates between the time you make your booking and the time your card provider converts the currency. This is because the currency is usually converted a number of days after the date the booking is made.”

If you are interested in saving money on your travel, then there are a few hacks to secure a cheaper price for your flight. Flight prices tend to vary based on time and day, but there are certain times during the week when prices are likely to be at their lowest.

Paul Stringer, director of Norton Finance, suggests booking your flight on a Sunday, as this could save travellers up to 13 percent on their holiday. Contrastingly, Friday is typically the most expensive day to book a flight, reports the Express. Setting up price alerts on a flight comparison website can also help you save on your booking.

The picturesque village of Polruan is located across the river from Fowey and offers some of the best views of the historic harbour town – it’s a must-visit for a day trip

Across the harbour from Fowey in south Cornwall, Polruan is an ancient mariner and shipbuilding village. Clinging to the hillside and surrounded on three sides by water, the village is a maze of narrow streets, alleys, and flights of steps winding between the quaint cottages. Much loved by locals, it’s also a haven for yachts and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Polruan has maintained its unspoilt charm, with just a couple of pubs, a café, and a local shop. However, it’s only a short passenger ferry ride to Fowey, where more shops and eateries await. From the top of the village, you can access the South West Coastal Footpath and embark on the challenging yet spectacular walk to Polperro, passing some of the region’s most remote and stunning beaches along the way.

READ MORE: Tiny island 28-miles from England is named secret paradise just like Caribbean

From here, you can take in magnificent vistas over the river, with highlights including Polruan Castle, the picturesque harbour, and a number of wonderful hiking trails. Surrounded by water on three sides — the English Channel, the River Fowey, and Pont Creek — Polruan is a beautifully scenic spot, offering splendid views at every turn.

For those traveling from the east, arriving by car is possible via narrow, sometimes busy country lanes. This route passes through Polperro and leads to the stunning Lantic Bay and Lansallos Bay, each with a car park for easy access to the beaches. However, parking can be tricky due to the village’s steep, narrow streets.

The easiest way to reach Polruan is likely by ferry from Fowey. The ferry runs daily, with services finishing at 11pm in the summer and 7pm in the winter and offering fantastic views of both towns and the boats moored in the harbour. At just £5 for two people, the 10-minute ride is a scenic and relaxing journey.

One of the main attractions is Polruan Castle, which, although in ruins, still carries fascinating history. Built in the 15th century to defend the harbour, the castle once had a chain across the river that was raised to prevent ships from entering during times of threat. Its origins trace back to the post-100 Years’ War era, when fears of French attacks were high. The castle also played a significant role during the English Civil War.

Today, the castle’s ruins don’t feature a roof or the chain, but the remains of gun holes provide spectacular views of the sea. The bottom entrance leads to an outcrop offering fantastic sights of the port and the surrounding coastline.

The Polruan seafront and harbour are lovely spots to sit back and watch the world go by. As the departure point for the ferry to Fowey, the harbour is a focal point for visitors.

It’s also home to shipyards where boats are repaired and fishing vessels come and go. Leisure boats are popular here, with many private boats moored along the jetties. For those who enjoy watersports, Polruan is a popular choice, and it’s a delight to watch the activity from the benches lining the harbour wall.

READ MORE: Liz Earle shoppers ‘blown away with results’ of £36 moisturiser ‘reduces wrinkles’

B&M is selling a stunning £4 gadget to turn your patio into a haven, and it’s less than half the price of a similar product at Asda.

With temperatures soaring this week and a bank holiday on the horizon, many of us are likely hoping to spend as much time as possible in the garden.

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And if you’re planning on hosting any BBQs or garden parties, you want to make sure your garden is in tip top shape.

Although you may think that jazzing up your patio will be a costly affair, B&M’s Solar Powered Butterfly Ground Lights prove you don’t have to break the bank.

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The bargain buy, which comes in a pack of four multi-colour LEDs, is priced at just £4, down from £6.

The lights are solar powered, meaning that they charge up using the sun’s rays, and automatically turn on when it gets dark.

And since they don’t require electricity, there’s no wires or plugs you need to faff about with.

Simply place the lights on your garden or patio and watch as, at dusk, they transform your outdoor space into a magical haven.

A product description reads: “Bring some magic to your garden with these Solar Powered Butterfly Ground Lights.

“With a stunning multi-colour solar glow, these garden lights are the perfect decorative light to brighten up your outdoor space.”

Asda also has solar powered butterfly lights on offer, but these are priced at £9, more than double the price of the B&M version.

The Asda lights come in a pack of 10, and can last up to eight hours when fully charged.

A description reads: “These beautiful butterfly lights from George Home will brighten up your garden in a flutter.

“They light up automatically as soon as it gets dark to create a relaxed atmosphere in your space.”

B&M is also selling a range of solar lamps, with prices as low as £1.50.

The retail giant told customers on social media: “Your garden’s glow-up starts here!

“Light up your garden with our HUGE range of Solar Lamps now in store!

“The perfect way to light up your outdoor seating space.”

Shoppers are are scrambling to get their hands on the range, which includes a Solar Powered Milan Floor Lamp 137cm for £25, a Solar Powered Table Lamps 2pk (£8) and the Crystal Effect Solar Lantern (£4).

Other penny-pinching products include the Crystal Effect Solar Table Lamp (£3.50) and the Modern Solar Table Lamp which was £2.50 and is now reduced to £1.50.

Excited fans on social media commented: “Need!”

A second added: “Wow.”

A third swooned: “This is a good one!”

This Dutch theme park is packed with whimsical and fairytale-inspired rides, restaurants and shows, but without the high prices and long queues of Disneyland Paris

This entertainment destination in the Netherlands is a closer – and cheaper – alternative to Disneyland Paris. Featuring delicious and budget-friendly foods, rides and storybook charm, this amusement park has all the fun of American parks but at a fraction of the cost.

Efteling Theme Park Resort is a fantasy-inspired entertainment destination. Efteling is called the “keeper of fairytales” in the Netherlands and once you arrive you’ll understand why it has become such a beloved summer holiday spot for local families and tourists alike.

The park opened in 1952 – 40 years before Disneyland Paris – in an attempt by the Efteling Nature Park Foundation to attract more visitors. Thus, the idea for a ‘three-dimensional Fairytale Forest with plenty of movement’ was conceived, alongside the filmmaker Peter Reijnders and artist Anton Pieck.

READ MORE: Booming UK seaside town is one of the most affordable destinations in Britain

In addition to the Fairytale Forest, the park has expanded exponentially over the years to include rollercoasters, family-friendly shows, rides, restaurants and playparks. Each area of the park is designed to add to an overall sense of magic and tells the story of fairytales new and old.

Some of the fairytales that serve as inspiration for the park include familiar favourites like Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid and The Frog Prince. But it also features less mainstream classics like The Red Shoes and The Emperor’s New Clothes.

Efteling celebrates the work of famous writers like Hans Christian Anderson, the Grimm brothers and Charles Perrault. But in a way that both honours the original tales and is fun for visitors of all ages.

That said, visitors are sure to find all the modern attractions of a large theme park, including goosebump-inducing rollercoasters and water rides that make big waves. If heights are not your forte, then you can opt for a relaxing train ride through the park or take in a 4D show.

The park has different highlights for each of the four seasons, so no matter when you visit, there will be something new to enjoy. Winter in the park is defined by bonfires and twinkle lights and offers the chance to sample some classic Dutch winter treats. Conversely, summer presents the opportunity to see the Fairytale Forest in all its splendor and enjoy the water-based attractions.

There are also plenty of dining options for parents and their picky eaters to sample traditional Dutch pancakes, stroopwafels and more hearty meals. In keeping with the enchantment of the park, each dining establishment takes on a fairytale-inspired theme with staff dressed in costume and putting on a table-side spectacle for diners to enjoy.

Guests must-try experience is the Burgundian heroes’ dinner in the Het Wapen van Raveleijn restaurant. To get the full experience, you can book a three-hour programme that includes a park show, a visit to the Riding School, a big main course with dessert and a special finale.

On the opening day of the Fairytale Forest back in 1952, the cost of entry was 80 cents in Dutch Guilder (£0.31). While the price has increased in 2025, it’s still reasonable compared to other large theme parks and admission for children 3 years old and under is free. Depending on your date of visit, entrance prices can range between €38.00 to €53.00 (£32 to £45).

If you want the full experience, you can also opt to stay overnight in Efteling or opt to stay in Kaatsheuvel. The town is conveniently located near the park and has come to be a popular staycation destination in the country for its sand dunes and impressive national park. Located in the Brabant countryside, this part of the country is also a popular Eurocamp spot.

Getting there

There are no direct flights to Efteling with plane passengers told to fly into Amsterdam Schiphol or Eindhoven airports, before a 1.5 hour transfer. For drivers, the Eurotunnel-le-Shuttle in Folkestone offers a 30 minute cross-Channel train ride into Calais, or the ferries at the Port of Dover offer the crossing in around an hour.

From there drivers will need to come through France and Belgium, before crossing into the Netherlands, a drive which takes four to five hours. For those situated in the north of the country, you can take the ferry from Hull to Rotterdam, then drive around 2.5 hours to Efteling.

According to flight information service, Seat Guru, Jet2 passengers should be aware that they may not be able to change and select a seat before boarding if they do this one thing.

Jet2 passengers trying to change their seat at the last minute may be derailed by this unassuming policy. Most Jet2 passengers will be allocated a seat at random, unless they opt in specifically for seat selection.

The convenience of selecting a preferred seat online, including seats with extra leg room, requires passengers to pay an additional fee. However, that selection is locked in the moment passengers check in online. According to Seat Guru, if you have already checked in online, you will not be able to change your seat at a Jet2 ticket counter at the airport.

Additionally, passengers who have not opted for seat selection but wish to do so will be unable to at the ticket counter if they’re already checked in online.

READ MORE: Jet2’s best and worst airline seats to book for extra legroom

Seat Guru confirms that check-in desks for flights going to Belfast and Faro will open 2.5 hours prior to departure, while check- in for flights going to Alicante, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, and Newcastle will open 3 hours prior to departure.

Jet2 passengers can check-in for their flight starting 28 days before and ending 5 hours before the scheduled departure time – though this depends on the departure destination. Jet2 passengers that have not yet checked in online can opt in for seat selection and also receive a printed boarding pass at a ticket counter. Those that opt for online check in can download a mobile boarding pass to their device.

Online web check-in can be used under the following conditions:

• you have an electronic ticket and the first flight is on Jet2
• you may access your reservation with your booking reference
• you are not a special needs passenger (for example, an unaccompanied minor)
• you are departing from an airport which accepts mobile boarding passes (if not, then you may check-in and print a boarding pass at the ticket counter).

Jet2 is also one of a few airlines that offers Twilight Check In, which enables passengers flying at midday to drop off their bags the evening before their flight. However, this service is only available between certain hours and at certain airports.

Jet2 passengers with flights departing before midday can drop off their bags at Birmingham, Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow International, London Stansted, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester or Newcastle Airports.

Even more conveniently, if you are travelling as part of a group not all passengers need to go to the airport for the twilight bag drop-off. Every one passenger is able to check bags for up to six people. Jet2’s Twilight Check-in service is free of charge and open between 16:30 and 21:00 the evening before your morning flight.

This little-known town in Suffolk is nestled between the picturesque River Alde and a stunning stretch of coastline, featuring a classic high street that is filled with thriving local businesses

This breathtaking seaside town is a little escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding villages, providing an abundance of experiences and activities for visitors and residents alike.

Aldeburgh in Suffolk is right in the middle of the River Alde and a stunning stretch of coastline overlooking the North Sea. This alluring town offers a whimsical escape from neighbouring towns and has even been named the best seaside spot by The Times. The little pebbled beach features a stunning four-metre-high sculpture of a scallop, created by popular Suffolk-born artist Maggi Hambling entirely of steel by Aldeburgh craftsmen Sam and Dennis Pegg, providing picture opportunities like no other shoreline.

READ MORE: Downtrodden seaside town once condemned as UK’s worst named 2025’s best

Steeped in charm and history, Aldeburgh is a town where every corner tells a story. Its colourful Georgian houses line the seafront, creating a picture-postcard setting that’s every bit as charming as it is authentic. The town’s heritage as a former Tudor port is still evident today, with historic buildings like Moot Hall, a 16th-century timber-framed town hall that now houses the Aldeburgh Museum.

While in town, boutiques filled with clothes, art, and antiques line the high street, alongside independent bookshops and a classic cinema. The high street is also home to culinary delights, from the renowned fish and chips to fine bistro dining, pizzas, and, of course, it’s not a beach town without some ice cream!

When visiting the town, be sure to stop by O&C Butcher. This 130-year-old clothes store has everything you need and more to kit yourself out for a weekend on the coast, selling beloved UK brands like Gant and Barbour. You can even treat your little furry friend to a matching coat, too!

Aldeburgh is well known for its link to Benjamin Britten, the founder of the Aldeburgh Festival, which takes place annually in June. The Aldeburgh Festival has been a pilgrimage for lovers of classical music and culture since 1948.

The town is also praised for its outstanding fish and chips. The local fish and chip shop has been in operation since 1967 and has received an overwhelming number of positive reviews from national publications, ranking it as one of the best in all of Britain.

There’s lots to see and do in Aldeburgh, the historic Quatrefoil Martello Tower is a great immersive experience for the whole family, a relic of coastal defence from the Napoleonic Wars.

Walkers have a wealth of enjoyable routes available in and around the town. Among these, the 9.7km Aldeburgh Circular Walk stands out as a popular choice, rated as moderate. This beautiful trail leads you along the striking Suffolk coastline and through the adjacent heath and meadow.

Whether you’re leaving the city, enjoying the local attractions, or simply looking to try the local chippy, Aldeburgh is an ideal spot for a family staycation.

Sitting midway between Bucharest and Budapest, this university town features some of the country’s best cultural institutions as well as an affordable and buzzing nightlife scene

The Balkans have been gaining a stronger reputation among British travellers for their stunning beaches and improving safety.

Countries like Croatia and Romania have been making plays to draw in more tourists, but their high ranking when it comes to safety are doing the best. As reported by GlobeAware, Romania is the safest destination to travel to in Europe. But nestled in the country’s northeast corner, one university town in particular is drawing tourists for its enriching, safe and affordable city experience.

Cluj-Napoca – Cluj for short – sits between Bucharest and Budapest, and has largely been a stopping off point for travellers from Hungary. But the city is more than just a rest stop, as one of the country’s biggest cities there is plenty to do and, being a university hub, the dining and nightlife is both buzzy and affordable.

READ MORE: EU’s safest country is stunning with barely any crime and just 3 hours from UK

Cluj is also a great place to begin understanding the country’s storied history. First settled by the Romans and then resettled during the Middle Ages, Cluj dates back centuries and that history is reflected in the architecture and local atmosphere.

There are plenty of historical churches, museums, and ruins where travellers can dive deeper into the city’s backstory. One of the most monumental is St. Michael’s Church – a 15th-century church that sits in the heart of the city’s Piata Unirii – Union Square.

St. Michael’s Church is considered the finest example of Gothic architecture in the country and most of the building’s current features are original. One of the best parts for travellers, the church is completely free to enter.

Another historic gem in the city centre is the Pharmaceutical Museum – often referred to as Hintz House. The museum that stands today was home to Romania’s fourth apothecary, opened in 1573. It offers a fascinating – albeit unsettling – look into medicine during the Renaissance period.

If this type of morbid tourism is of interest, then the Museum of Zoology is another must-visit. The building is stocked with hundreds of jarred and dried animal specimens. But beyond the unusual, the museum exhibits exotic fauna and scientific collections.

For travellers looking to explore the cultural side of the Cluj, the local art museum may be a better fit. There is also the National Theatre Lucian Blaga is considered a cultural institution of Cluj and one of the most well-known theatrical institutions in Romania. Here, travellers can stop in for a play, musical or opera without having to travel all the way to Budapest.

For the party-inclied, Cluj’s nightlife is top-tier if you don’t mind a more youthful atmosphere. Tastemaking DJs keep local university students on their toes night after night and drinks flow at budget-friendly prices.

Another great way to immerse yourself in local life is to visit the local market. The central market is where you can sample the freshest and cheapest produce in the city. If you’re worried about not speaking the language, you can also join a free walking tour in English – you’ll just need to make reservations in advance.

Finally, for the nature lovers there is plenty to occupy your time in Cluj, though the first stop should certainly be Cetatuia Hill. An impressive observation point, it only take about 15 minutes to hike up the hill and is also home to an impressive park space and abandoned 18th-century citadel.

The Alexandru Borza Botanic Gardens is also another picturesque destination to spend an afternoon, home to a Japanese garden and observation tower. The Hoia Forest and Turda salt mines are also impressive fixtures of the nearby landscape if you have time to explore beyond Cluj.

SOME of the world’s best throwers head to Germany for the return of the European Darts Open!

It was an unforgettable moment last year for Gary Anderson as the Scotsman secured his first European tour title since 2014 by defeating Rob Cross 8-6 in the final.

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And the defending champion is back for more, hoping to defend his crown in front of a loud Glaspalast crowd.

However, Anderson will certainly have his work cut out as several household names are set to feature.

This includes reigning world number one, Luke Humphries, but Luke Littler will not compete at this tournament.

Remarkably, there have been as many as nine different winners in ten editions, so there is every chance someone new could be on the throne by the end of the tournament.

When is the European Darts Grand Prix 2025?

• The European Darts Grand Prix 2025 will get underway on Friday, May 2.
• It will then sadly conclude on Sunday, May 4.
• Afternoon sessions are set to start at 12pm BST while the evening sessions begin at 6pm BST.
• The Glaspalast in Sindelfingen, Germany will host the 11th edition of the tournament.

How to watch the European Darts Grand Prix 2025

• The European Darts Grand Prix will be available to watch on PDCTV.
• A monthly PDCTV subscription costs fans in the UK £4.99.
• An Annual subscription is also available for purchase at £49.99.

European Darts Grand Prix 2025 schedule

Friday, May 2 (first round)
From 12pm

• Martin Lukeman 6-3 Benjamin Pratnemer
• Cameron Menzies 6-2 Michael Unterbuchner
• Wessel Nijman 6-2 Bradley Brooks
• Gian van Veen 6-3 Nathan Rafferty
• Ritchie Edhouse 2-6 Connor Scutt
• Luke Woodhouse 6-3 Johan Engstrom
• Ryan Joyce 3-6 Leon Weber
• Jermaine Wattimena 3-6 Daniel Klose

From 6pm

• Ryan Searle 1-6 Niels Zonneveld
• Joe Cullen 6-0 Marcel Erba
• Mike de Decker 6-4 Max Hopp
• Raymond van Barneveld 6-3 Krzysztof Ratajski
• Andrew Gilding 6-5 Gabriel Clemens
• Martin Schindler 6-3 Callan Rydz
• Ross Smith 6-0 Paul Krohne
• William O’Connor 2-6 Dirk van Duijvenbode

Saturday, May 3
From 12pm

• Danny Noppert 6-5 Wessel Nijman
• Martin Lukeman 6-2 Damon Heta
• Michael Smith 6-5 Daniel Klose
• Gary Anderson 6-5 Gian van Veen
• Luke Woodhouse 6-4 Chris Dobey
• Niels Zonneveld 6-2 Nathan Aspinall
• Rob Cross 6-3 Mike De Decker
• Ross Smith 6-3 Dave Chisnall

From 6pm

• James Wade 6-4 Joe Cullen
• Andrew Gilding 6-5 Jonny Clayton
• Raymond van Barneveld 6-5 Gerwyn Price
• Peter Wright 6-4 Leon Weber
• Dirk van Duijvenbode 6-3 Michael van Gerwen
• Luke Humphries 6-1 Connor Scutt
• Martin Schindler 6-4 Josh Rock
• Cameron Menzies 6-2 Stephen Bunting

Sunday, May 4
From 12pm (third round)

• Martin Lukeman v Raymond van Barneveld
• Rob Cross v Gary Anderson
• Niels Zonneveld v James Wade
• Dirk van Duijvenbode v Martin Schindler
• Cameron Menzies v Peter Wright
• Andrew Gilding v Danny Noppert
• Luke Woodhouse v Ross Smith
• Luke Humphries v Michael Smith

From 6pm
Quarterfinal

Semifinals

Final