Holidays

St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly may be just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of England, but it offers an idyllic escape that feels worlds away from mainland Britain

Just 28 miles off the southwestern tip of Cornwall lies an island that feels worlds away from mainland Britain. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that rival the Caribbean, St Mary’s in the Isles of Scilly offers a surprising and idyllic escape – all without leaving the UK.

This 2.5-square-mile island may be small, but it promises an unforgettable experience. The adventure begins with the journey itself. Most visitors arrive on the Scillonian III ferry from Penzance, a scenic two-hour and 45-minute voyage that serves as a perfect transition from the hustle of daily life to the relaxed pace of island time.

For those looking for a quicker and more thrilling option, a 15-minute helicopter ride from Penzance provides spectacular aerial views that rival even some of those found in the Caribbean.

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Once you arrive, a visit to The Garrison, a star-shaped fortification dating back to the 16th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s strategic military past. Walking along its ramparts, you’ll be treated to sweeping panoramic views of the entire archipelago, making it a prime spot for photography that rivals observation decks in major European cities.

St Mary’s is home to several pristine beaches that feel as though they’ve been transplanted from far more exotic destinations. Porthcressa and Porthmellon beaches feature soft, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters that shimmer in the sunlight. Thanks to the island’s unique microclimate, which is warmer than mainland Britain, the conditions are ideal for swimming, particularly during the summer months.

It also serves as the perfect base for exploring nearby islands. Small inter-island boats regularly depart from the quay, making it easy to take day trips to Tresco, home to the famous Abbey Gardens, or to St. Martin’s, known for its award-winning vineyard. As you glide across the crystal-clear waters, you might even spot seals playfully swimming beneath the surface.

The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, and kayaking along the coast often brings you up close to the curious seals, who pop their heads above the water to investigate. Birdwatchers flock to the islands for a chance to see rare species attracted by the islands’ unique position.

What makes St Mary’s even more special is its surprisingly mild climate, which feels more akin to the coastal towns of Spain than the typical British weather. While it may not boast sunshine every day of the year, the island enjoys far more bright days than the mainland, making outdoor exploration a delight no matter the season.

The island offers over 30 miles of walking trails, many of which follow the dramatic coastline. These paths wind through landscapes that range from windswept headlands to sheltered coves, each offering stunning vistas perfect for nature photography that could grace the covers of magazines.

St Mary’s captivates with its beaches reminiscent of tropical paradises, intriguing history, and remarkable natural beauty. This tiny island, just off England’s tip, offers an experience that feels both foreign and familiar, leaving you to wonder why more travellers haven’t yet discovered this gem, hidden in plain sight.

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Heathrow is among the world’s busiest, let alone the UK’s most bustling airport, but travellers go about their journeys without ever realising there’s an abandoned terminal sitting among the chaos

The UK’s busiest airport has an abandoned-looking terminal that almost nobody is permitted to enter. While it has been a decade since any passengers departed from there, the terminal is still used for a number of pivotal purposes.

Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 1 opened its doors in 1969 and was formally inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II. At the time it was the largest airport terminal in Western Europe, and for decades served as the primary gateway for short-haul UK and European flights. It underwent significant expansion in the 1990s and a major redesign in 2005, doubling the size of its departure lounge with additional retail and seating areas.

With the opening of Terminal 5 in 2008 and the transformation of Terminal 2 into the Queen’s Terminal in 2014, Terminal 1’s facilities became outdated. With passenger numbers soaring and expectations rising, the decision was made to close Terminal 1, consolidating operations into the newer, more efficient terminals. The last flight took off from there to Frankfurt, Germany, at 9.30pm on June 29, 2015.

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Since its closure, Terminal 1 has not welcomed a single passenger. Its departure boards are blank and its formerly bustling concourses silent, but the building is actually far from abandoned — it has found a second life behind the scenes, playing a crucial role in Heathrow’s daily operations.

What is Heathrow Terminal 1 used for now?

The primary use of Terminal 1 today is as the baggage handling centre for Terminal 2. All luggage checked in at Terminal 2 is processed through the systems and teams based in the old Terminal 1 building.

Disrupted or misdirected bags are routed to the former international reclaim hall — now called the “purge area” — where they are stored until they can be cleared and returned to passengers. This arrangement keeps Terminal 2’s public spaces uncluttered and ensures efficient baggage flow.

As the airport’s website explains: “The main functionality of Terminal 1, however, is to house the baggage system for Terminal 2. All of the baggage teams stayed in Terminal 1 as their main base, and all of the bags that are checked into Terminal 2 are processed in the Terminal 1 building.

“Any disrupted bags that get processed are bought to the ‘purge area’, which is the old international reclaim hall in Terminal 1, and stored there until they are cleared.

“This is to ensure they don’t clog up any space in Terminal 2 and get in the way of airport staff or passengers. Once they have been cleared and ready to go, they are put back on the belts, processed, and repatriated back to passengers.”

Terminal 1’s vast, empty spaces have also become a vital training ground for London‘s Fire Brigade, Ambulance Service and Metropolitan Police, who regularly use the building for large-scale exercises, simulating a variety of scenarios from fires to security incidents.

Sometimes, up to 200 personnel may be involved in these immersive drills, taking advantage of the authentic airport environment to hone their skills.

The future

Despite its ongoing utility, Terminal 1’s future remains uncertain. There are no current plans to reopen it for commercial use, but the site is earmarked for possible redevelopment as part of Heathrow’s long-term expansion plans.

As Heathrow’s website elaborates: “Even though Terminal 1 hasn’t been a public-facing, operational Terminal for nearly a decade, it is a functioning building that houses several key services for the benefit and smooth running of the airport in its day to day running.

“There may be future plans to one day get rid of the building in its entirety to make space for the further expansion of Terminal 2, but for now, it is still very much a part of the Heathrow campus and stands firmly in its place.”

Downham, often hailed as the most beautiful village in Lancashire, lies at the foot of Pendle Hill, close to the thriving market town of Clitheroe and boasts unrivalled views

As you enter the picturesque village of Downham in Lancashire, the first thing that captures your attention is the breath-taking, unspoiled views of the surrounding countryside.

Then, as your eyes wander along the winding lanes, you’ll notice something unusual — the charming stone cottages lack modern features like TV aerials, power lines, or satellite dishes. There are no road signs or markings here, and the village itself seems almost frozen in time, as if it’s been untouched for centuries.

This timeless quality is no accident. Downham is one of the few villages in the UK to have remained under the ownership of the same ancestral family for over 500 years.

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Often hailed as Lancashire’s most beautiful village, Downham regularly attracts visitors who enjoy wandering through its picturesque lanes alongside a babbling brook, stopping at the local ice cream shop, or enjoying a tipple at the village pub.

The Assheton family has owned the village for half a millennium, including the ancestral Downham Hall and the stunning 3,000 acres of rolling countryside that surround it.

They’ve worked tirelessly to preserve the village, ensuring it remains as true to its roots as possible. They own all the properties in Downham, allowing them to keep modern developments out of sight and maintain the area’s old-world charm.

While the cottages do have electricity, power lines are cleverly hidden beneath the unmarked roads to preserve the historical aesthetic. The ancestral Downham Estate is currently managed by the Hon Ralph Assheton, with the family’s residence, Downham Hall, standing as one of the village’s most stunning properties.

The Asshetons also have a policy of renting out local cottages to people who want to become part of the community, preventing second-home owners from leaving properties vacant for most of the year.

Thanks to their commitment to preservation and the village’s breathtaking location overlooking Pendle Hill, Downham has become a sought-after filming location for period dramas. The 1961 hit movie Whistle Down the Wind is one of the most notable productions filmed here.

Michelle Brown, who runs the local ice cream shop and lives in the village with her family, shares her love for the area.

“It’s so unspoilt here, there aren’t many villages like this,” she said. If you took all the cars away, you’d half expect to see a horse and trap on the streets. It’s just a lovely little village, and we get lots of visitors who say it’s beautiful, yet you’ve got a bustling town like Clitheroe less than 10 minutes away.”

Visitors can also enjoy a drink at The Assheton Arms, which was a key filming location for BBC’s The Secret of Crickley Hall. This 18th-century gastropub boasts stunning views from its terrace, serves as a popular wedding venue, and offers six bedrooms for those wishing to stay.

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Despite attracting many tourists, locals still regard Downham as somewhat of a hidden treasure, especially since there are no road signs indicating you’ve arrived in the village.

For the Assheton family, preserving the village’s charm is important, but it’s not their only focus. They’re also dedicated to moving Downham forward while keeping its unique character intact.

A spokeswoman for the family told the Manchester Evening News: “Downham may look preserved in aspic, but it is a vibrant and thriving community supporting a range of businesses.”

One example is the transformation of Brookside Barn into office space, alongside the nearby eco-friendly Bowland Bioenergy, which supplies sustainable wood fuel products for biomass heating.

The Estate is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint, with the current challenge being to upgrade very old and listed properties without damaging their historical features.

The Estate is actively involved in the Pendle Hill Landscape Partnership project, which includes initiatives such as creating a new bridleway connecting Downham to the nearby village of Chatburn, peat restoration efforts, and extensive tree planting projects.

THE 1% Club saw a chunk of contestants stumped by a confusing picture question – but could you get it in 30 seconds?

Saturday night’s episode saw 100 new contestants try to make it to the final question in a bid to win a share of the jackpot.

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But unfortunately for a good chunk of the players, the 80% question caught them out early.

It featured three pictures, a ball of string, a metallic square and a cloud with a face making a blowing motion.

The question read: “In this cryptic puzzle, where would you find the following images?”

The options were: “In an orchestra, In a cinema or On a football pitch”.

The players had 30 seconds to figure it out before host Lee Mack revealed 16 people had got it wrong and were out of the game.

He then revealed the answer was ‘In an orchestra’ as the pictures represented string, brass and wind, which are all sections of an orchestra.

Did you get it right?

Meanwhile, a previous episode of the ITV show saw 27 contestants completely stumped by a yoga question.

Lee asked the 70% question: “Which yoga position comes next in this sequence?

The contestants were then given a multiple choice option – A, B or C.

After 30 seconds were up, Lee explained that the answer was C.

He added: “Because if you follow the sequence the figure has one limb on the floor, then two limbs then three, so to follow on the next move has to have four limbs on the floor.”

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The 1% Club airs on ITV1 and is available on ITVX.

A STAR of The Apprentice has become a dad for first time at 50 – after revealing he wants Lord Sugar to be godfather.

Tre Lowe appeared on the 2024 series of the BBC show and confirmed he was going to be a dad in November.

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Now Tre has revealed his son has arrived safe and well, sharing a snap of the tot’s tiny hand and foot on his Instagram.

He wrote alongside the snaps: “And just like that, I’m a father.

“There’s nothing that prepares you for this moment. No book, no podcast, no advice. Just you, your son, and a whole new frequency of love.

“Real talk – the road to get here hasn’t been easy. It’s been full of plot twists, growing pains, and challenging moments.

“But every single one shaped me. Broke me open. Built something real. Something solid.”

He continued: “Now I look at my son and everything makes sense. My mission. My why.

“To everyone who’s walked with me, held space – I see you. I thank you. I love you.

“To my wife Enas – you are power, beauty, grace and grit. What you’ve done, what you’ve carried, what you’ve become… I’m in awe.”

He finished the post by writing: “And to my son…I’ve got you. Through everything. Through the madness and the magic.
From now till my last breath – I’ve got you. The next chapter begins now. Let’s get it.”

Tre previously opened up about how Lord Sugar would be a fantastic godfather to his child.

He said: “God, if anything happened to me. I know my kid is going to be all right. If Lord Sugar was the godparent, can you imagine the wisdom that kid would have.”

He also spoke about being an older dad, saying: “I must admit every now and then, in my weaker moments, I say, ‘oh, my God, have I left it too late?’ because people tend to think it’s women who think about that biological clock but I’ll tell you that men think of it too.

“I do think about it, because when my child is going to university, I’m going to be like 70 or 71! And by the time it graduates I’m going to be like 75.

“I do worry and think about whether I’m still going to be healthy and well.”

The Apprentice biggest moments

THE Apprentice has been a fan favourite ever since it burst onto the box in 2005.

Here we take a look at five of the biggest moments over the years on the hit BBC One show.

Tim Campbell – Former London Underground transport manager Tim Campbell won the first series of the reality show in 2005. He is now one of Lord Sugar’s aides on the show.

 Sarah Lynn and James White – For the first and only time in the show’s history, both finalists were crowned winners in 2017.

Amy Anzel – Season 16’s fired candidate Amy Anzel was BANNED from the final celebration show, after a tit-for-tat exchange over Lord Sugar’s mocking tweets.

Michelle Dewberry – Telecoms consultant Michelle Dewberry won the second series of the show in 2006. However, after winning a six-figure job with Lord Sugar she lasted just four months before she sensationally quit.

Selena Waterman-Smith – We’re used to tensions running high in the boardroom, but in 2015 a disagreement between two candidates spilled over – for the first time – into a physical bust-up. Events manager Selina Waterman-Smith was given a verbal warning by show bosses for her role in an off-camera scrap with Charleine Wain.

The TV star continued: “I’m very fit for my age, and even though I look much younger than what I am, biologically, I am still what I am.

“But like, I say, I think if you’re not going to live life in your discomfort zone, there’s no point living, and I always live by that motto.”

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ZOE Ball has made her triumphant return to BBC Radio 2 as she debuted her new Saturday radio show today. 

The 54-year-old star has now returned to “where it all began” by signing on to the Saturday afternoon slot. 

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She previously made a tearful goodbye to the Breakfast show after six years at the end of 2024.

As she made her comeback, taking over the headphones from Rylan, Zoe told listeners: “Hello it’s me, oh it’s lovely to be back on a Saturday.

“This is where it all began for me, back in the day when I used to sweep up and make the teas.” 

She will be maintaining a slot every Saturday from 1pm to 3pm, and has been billed as “the best songs and chat for a Saturday”.

She was joined on her first show by Roisin Conarty for a natter, as well as having a catch up with old pal, Rylan.

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, previously said: “Zoe is one of the UK’s most loved presenters, so I’m thrilled to announce that she has a new home on Radio 2 on Saturday lunchtimes, plus she’ll be hosting various specials for us throughout the year.”

In recent months, Zoe has kept a low profile and focused on renovating her garden, making some public work appearances in the process.

She also played a part in the BBC’s VE Day 80: A Celebration to Remember, which is taking place at the iconic Horse Guards Parade in London.

Zoe even worked shifts in at Big Beach Café in Hove with her ex-husband Norm ‘Fatboy Slim’ Cook, who she’s been married to since 1999.

The long-time radio favourite decided to leave her Breakfast show last year, explaining she wanted to spend more time with her family after the death of her mum.

As part of it, she flew to New York to spend time with son, Woody, who was making music over there.

In an emotional final farewell to listeners, the DJ paid tribute to her “hero” – fellow station star Jo Whiley – and her team on the show, saying they “held me up, quite literally, when I was at my lowest”.

She was replaced in the slot by Scott Mills.

Zoe Ball’s career so far

Zoe was born in Blackpool and is daughter of the children’s TV presenter Johnny Ball and his wife Julia.

She appeared on television at a young age as part of the studio audience of the Saturday morning children’s show, Saturday Superstore when her father was a guest.

The star began her career in broadcasting as a presenter on the pre-school programme Playdays.

After various behind the scenes roles, she earned a spot as a regular host of Top of the Pops, when she alternated with the likes of Jayne Middlemiss and Jo Whiley.

In 1996, she was chosen to front BBC One‘s saturday morning show Live & Kicking, which led to stints on The Big Breakfast on Channel 4.

But she maintained a huge presence on the radio as she was chosen to be the co-host of BBC Radio 1 Breakfast alongside Kevin Greening in October 1997.

Zoe was later appointed the sole host of the show in a groundbreaking move by the corporation as she was the first female DJ to hold the post.

The presenter chose to leave the station in March 2000 to start a family, where she was succeeded by Sara Cox.

As a mainstream face in TV through the noughties, she hosted a range of huge programmes for ITV, including the Brit Awards in 2002, Extinct in 2006, and both Soapstar Superstar and Grease Is The Word in 2007.

In mid-2002, she returned to radio when she joined Xfm (later known as Radio X), when she was the voice of the weekday drivetime show until December 2003. In 2004, she stood in for Ricky Gervais while he filmed the second series of The Office.

In October 2005, she appeared as a contestant on the third series of Strictly Come Dancing, where she was partnered with Ian Waite, The star impressed viewers with her footwork and the duo waltzed into third place.

In 2011, she returned to the franchise as she took over as the host of the magazine spin-off show, It Takes Two.

She also filled in for Claudia Winkleman on the main show in 2014, when The Traitors star took leave after her daughter suffered serious burn injuries.

After 10 years fronting the show, Zoe announced she was quitting her role on BBC Two in May 2021.

Zoe’s journey in BBC Radio 2 started in 2006 when she fronted specialist documentaries. Over the years she sat in for names such as Dermot O’Leary, Ken Bruce and Chris Evans.

After several shake-ups, she returned to the station on a permanent basis when she took over Dermot’s Saturday afternoon slot between 3pm and 6pm.

In October 2018, Chris Evans moved to Virgin Radio and he personally announced that Zoe would take over his popular slot. She started presenting the breakfast show on 14 January 2019.

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Bluetooth trackers have become popular with travellers, I put a leser-known brand to the test on a recent flight to Milan

I tried a lesser-known Bluetooth device to keep tabs on my luggage during my holiday, and it’s more affordable than an AirTag.

Losing your luggage on a much-anticipated holiday, particularly when going to a different country, is a nightmare no one wants to experience. A concern which has arguably boosted the demand for trackable Bluetooth gadgets like the renowned Apple AirTag.

However, Apple’s popular coin-sized tracker isn’t the only game in town. As a tech editor, I’ve tried with several alternatives, including Tile, Samsung’s SmartTag, and Chipolo.

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During a recent holiday, I decided to put Chipolo’s CARD Spot to the test. Its slim design, like a bank card, is perfect for slipping into a wallet, passport, or ID, similar to the Tile by Life360 or Eufy SmartTrack Card – though I opted to place it in my suitcase pocket for tracking during my flight.

It comes with a catch, though, as it operates solely on Apple’s Find My network, not its own app. Priced at £21 in the sale, the CARD Spot boasts features that set it apart from the AirTag and Tile pack. However, if you’re an Android user, this gadget won’t be suitable as it lacks compatibility.

Chipolo CARD Spot

The Chipolo CARD Spot is an alternative to the usual round-shaped Bluetooth trackers like AirTags. Its thin, card-like design can easily be slipped into wallets and passports.

Chipolo has since launched the more adaptable Card One Point, compatible with Google’s Find My Device Network. One of the standout features for me was the straightforward set-up process. It’s as simple as opening the Find My App on your iPhone and syncing the Chipolo card by pressing the loud buzzer.

I also personalised it by naming it and choosing a symbol to distinguish it from my other gadgets. Another advantage is that it doesn’t require additional storage space on your mobile with an app download, as it operates through my existing Apple ID.

Tracking the Chipolo gadget is also a breeze, as everything is managed through the iOS Find My App as usual. Any iPhone that comes within the tracker’s range can anonymously report its location, which can then be displayed on the map as its ‘last seen location’.

Alerts are sent when an iPhone moves out of range, and it sends notifications to the synced iPhone. The CARD Spot also features a loud alarm for locating items nearby.

This particular feature beats both the Tile and AirTag I’ve previously used. However, in terms of versatility, the Tile by Life360 Slim outperforms Chipolo as it is compatible with both Apple and Android devices.

The battery life of the Chipolo CARD Spot is a bit of a mixed bag. It lasts up to two years, however, once it depletes, it can’t be replaced, which is a drawback of the product that brands like Apple and Samsung have addressed.

Both the AirTag and Samsung SmartTag batteries can be replaced. The inability to share the tracker with family members who use Android devices, coupled with this, is certainly a letdown.

However, Chipolo does offer a Recycle and Renew programme for users who return their device, but only when they respond to a reminder from Chipolo.

Despite these drawbacks, I would still recommend Chipolo’s CARD Spot to iPhone users as a more affordable alternative to the modest Apple AirTag, especially if you can snag it at the current sale price of £21. It’s straightforward to set up, reliable, and its tracking capabilities are nearly identical to the AirTag in the iPhone Find My App.

In my opinion, it demonstrates that you don’t always need to purchase another Apple product to pair with your iPhone – there are good alternatives out there.

A NON-LEAGUE football club is looking for a new shirt sponsor after being forced to RETRACT the deal it had with Bonnie Blue.

The controversial adult star Bonnie Blue had become the shirt sponsor for Calstock FC.

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The Cornwall-based side shared a kit which featured a “BB” logo that was funded by the 25-year-old.

The logo featured on a new blue away kit rather than the club’s established yellow and black home shirt.

However, the club has now revealed that they are prohibited from wearing the kit due to the FA‘s “interpretation of the regulations”.

A statement read: “Due to the FA’s interpretation of the regulations, we are retracting the kit bearing the BB logo.

“We did not do this to offend.

“We, as an adult club and collective, categorically do not advocate or support the oppression of women.”

The club was hit with criticism on social media but it appears that this has not factored into the decision.

The shirt also featured the phrase, “Up The Bonnie Blue Bees” printed along the back of the shirt.

A GoFundMe page has also been set up to help the club replace the banned shirt.

Blue, whose real name is Tia Emma Billinger, hails from Stapleford, Nottinghamshire.

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She rose to fame claiming to sleep with over 1,000 men in just 12 hours.

The infamous OnlyFans model was recently banned from Nottingham Forest’s City Ground.

She had tried to pull a viral stunt when she advertised an offer to “entertain” fans before the visit.

Speaking on the Only Stans podcast: “I thought when they asked me to go to the side, ‘maybe they’re upgrading my tickets, maybe they want to escort me to my seat, this is quite nice, it’s a good service’.

“They asked to see my tickets, I showed them and they took them off me, saying, ‘we’re escorting you off the premises’.

“Apparently, they don’t discriminate against sex workers, but I was banned because I was a sex worker. 

“I was going to encourage them (the players), give them a good time.

“I also think if I’m entertaining the supporters it’s less people drinking so I’m actually doing something good for their health.”

Discover Saltwood, a charming Kent village where history meets haute cuisine, home to the two Michelin-starred Hide and Fox restaurant, nestled amid centuries-old heritage

The village of Saltwood in Kent might not be on every traveller’s radar, but that’s part of its charm. This peaceful spot near the coast offers a mix of history, nature and top-tier dining.

Tucked quietly in the Folkestone and Hythe district, Saltwood is a quintessential English village. Think flint-stone cottages, winding lanes, and rolling countryside as far as the eye can see. But there’s more than just postcard scenery here. Food lovers now make a beeline for Saltwood thanks to its standout culinary gem, Hide and Fox.

This Michelin-starred restaurant, discreetly nestled in a converted village shop, has been turning heads for all the right reasons. It’s run by husband-and-wife duo Allister Barsby and Alice Bussi, who bring serious pedigree to the table.

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Allister hails from nearby Whitstable and brings with him experience from some of the West Country’s top restaurants. Alice, a skilled sommelier and hospitality expert, ensures every guest feels welcomed from the moment they walk in.

The pair have created something truly special, modern fine dining rooted in local ingredients and British tradition. Dishes are flavour-forward, seasonal, and beautifully presented without pretension.

Inside, the vibe is relaxed but refined, white tablecloths paired with warm service and excellent wine. The wine list is expertly curated by Alice, who has introduced unexpected gems from Georgia and Croatia to delight curious palates.

Hide and Fox has earned two Michelin stars and three AA Rosettes, yet it still feels refreshingly down-to-earth. Locals and travellers alike are welcomed with the same genuine enthusiasm.

After your meal, it’s worth taking a wander through Saltwood itself. A scenic walking route called the Saltwood Saunter takes you through Willow Wood and out into the countryside.

History buffs will enjoy spotting the 12th-century parish church of St Peter and St Paul, a beautiful building with stories woven into every stone. Saltwood Castle, dating back over a thousand years, adds even more historical intrigue.

The castle even played a dark role in English history, in 1170, four knights stayed there before riding to Canterbury, where they murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket. Today, the castle is privately owned but remains an iconic part of the village’s past.

Between its scenic charm, historic weight and superb dining, Saltwood punches well above its weight. It’s a true hidden gem that rewards those who take the time to explore it.

MICHAEL van Gerwen has ditched the “lower priority” World Cup of Darts for IBIZA.

The three-time World Champion MVG will not play in Frankfurt on June 12-15 with Gian van Veen now expected to partner Danny Noppert for the Netherlands.

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World No.3 Van Gerwen’s absence shocked fans.

But close pal and former pro Vincent van der Voort wasn’t surprised.

He said on the Darts Draait Podcast: “I already knew back in December – his holiday was booked by then.

“I think he’ll be on a very big boat near Ibiza around that time. It’s all very inconvenient, of course.”

Podcast host Damian Vlottes joked: “If the choice is between that or the Eissporthalle in Frankfurt, I think I’d know what to pick.”

Former UK Open finalist Van der Voort backed MVG’s decision.

He added: “Playing for your country is a great honour, but let’s be honest, the World Cup of Darts was somewhat forced into the calendar.

“We looked at the schedule, and Michael wants to be at his best in the autumn. That means something has to give.

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“He wants to be fresh for the second half of the year, which is why his holiday falls during the World Cup. It’s a matter of making choices.

“The World Cup just has a lower priority at the moment. Maybe he’ll return to it next year.”

Van Gerwen will take a leaf out of wife Daphne’s book, who was seen soaking up the sun in a bikini on holiday last month.

She was hailed as “super beautiful” by fans after posing in Turkey in photos with her mother and looking out to a scenic ocean view.

The pair have been married since 2014 and are parents to daughter Zoe, 7, and son Mike, 5.

I’M A Celebrity star Shaun Ryder shared a rare snap of his daughter Lulu as she celebrated her 16th birthday.

The Happy Mondays singer, 62, posted a sweet tribute on Instagram for the teenager’s milestone birthday.

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Shaun has two daughters, Lulu and Pearl, with his wife Joanne, and four other children from previous relationships. 

The Celebrity Gogglebox star proudly shared a photo of Lulu and captioned it: “Happy 16th Birthday to my fab super duper youngest daughter Lulu!! I am so proud of her. Love from dad.”

Shaun often keeps his family life private and fills his social media with music projects.

It comes after The Sun revealed that Happy Mondays are working on a new album – 18 years after their last record, Uncle Dysfunktional.

In an exclusive chat in February, Bez has revealed frontman Shaun Ryder, already has a slew of tunes ready to go.

And he said the group were persuaded to get back in the studio by their manager, Oasis supremo Alan McGee.

“There’s talk of a new album to come, which I’m really f***ing looking forward to,” Bez told The Sun.

“It’s going to be visionary.

“It’s going to be massive.

“It’s an idea and Alan normally gets what he wants.

“With all my heart and soul, I want it more than anyone.

“I want to hear the most magic st you’ve ever heard.

“And I’m sure we can deliver it.”

The group, who had Top Ten hits with Step On and Kinky Afro, have five studio albums in all, but haven’t put out an original body of work since 2007.

And Bez – real name Mark Berry – believes the party animals have finally got their act together because they’re now in their sixties.

He explained: “We actually know what we’re doing now.

“We were f***ing green when we started.

“We didn’t even know what ‘one, two, three, four,’ was.

“That’s how naive we’ve always been. We’re still maturing and the best is yet to come.

“Shaun never stops being creative, it’s in his f***ing blood.

“It always amazes me the st he comes out with. It’s f***ing genius.”

Alongside the Happy Mondays, Shaun has been hard at work on the debut record for super group Mantra Of The Cosmos, which features Bez, Andy Bell and Zak Starkey.

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THOUSANDS of Tesco Clubcard holders have been warned they could lose out unused vouchers within weeks but there’s a clever trick that could stop you missing out.

Tesco shoppers have just until May 31 to use their existing Clubcard vouchers before they vanish for good.

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In a direct message to customers, Tesco said: “Your Clubcard vouchers are expiring soon. Don’t forget to use them on your next shop.”

The supermarket giant is urging users to act fast, warning that once the deadline passes, expired vouchers cannot be reissued and many Brits could be sitting on tens or even hundreds of pounds in unused rewards.

Clubcard vouchers are only valid for two years from the date they’re issued, so anything earned back in mid-2022 will now be on the chopping block.

But there’s a little-known trick that can buy you another two years and all it takes is a quick tap at the till.

If a voucher is nearing its expiry date, you can simply spend a small amount, say 50p from a £10 voucher, and Tesco will reissue the remaining balance (£9.50) with a fresh two-year expiry date.

So instead of watching your points disappear into thin air, you can keep them going just by making a small spend in-store or online.

To find out what you’ve got left, simply log into your Tesco Clubcard account online or open the Tesco app and head to the ‘Vouchers’ section under the Clubcard tab.

If you’re shopping in-store, you can scan them straight from your phone, or if you’re buying online, they’ll appear automatically at checkout.

Tesco’s Customer Engagement Centre urged shoppers not to delay: “Lost track of where they are? Don’t worry, you can find your vouchers in the Tesco app.

“If you’re shopping in-store, just scan them at the till from your phone.”

What is Tesco Clubcard?

Tesco Clubcard is the supermarket’s free loyalty scheme, which allows customers to earn points every time they shop.

You get one point for every £1 spent, and when you reach 150 points, Tesco sends out a £1.50 voucher.

But the real value lies in Tesco’s Reward Partner scheme, where vouchers can be worth double or even triple depending on where you use them.

This includes popular family attractions, restaurants, and even travel services.

For example, turning £10 of Clubcard vouchers into a £30 reward is possible when using partners like PizzaExpress, Legoland, or RAC breakdown cover.

Make the most out of your Clubcard

You can also rack up points faster through Tesco’s partner brands with companies like Vauxhall, OVO Energy, and Evri offering extra points.

A new Vauxhall car could earn you up to 50,000 Clubcard points, while spending with Evri earns you one point per £1.

There’s also an easy way to top up your balance without shopping.

Sign up to Shopper Thoughts, Tesco’s survey platform, and you could bag 150 points just for sharing your opinions from home.

For regular Tesco customers, upgrading to Clubcard Plus might be a smart move.

It costs £7.99 a month, but gives you 10% off two in-store shops each month, which could quickly outweigh the monthly fee if you’re spending over £40.

You can also unlock exclusive Clubcard Prices, saving shoppers an average of £351 per year, according to Tesco.

Just remember, once you convert your Clubcard vouchers into Reward Partner codes, those only last six months, so be sure to use them in time.

With May 31 looming, time is ticking.

Check your Tesco app or account now and if you spot an old voucher, don’t bin it.

Use a few pence and give it a new lease of life.

After all, with a quick trick and a few taps, you could save a fortune on your next big shop or family day out.

ANAL cancer rates have been rising globally – and now scientists have identified a group of people most at risk.

Since the early 1990s, anal cancer incidence rates have increased by more than three-quarters (77 per cent) in the UK, with about 1,500 people diagnosed with it each year.

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A similar trend had been seen in the US, with researchers noting the biggest rise among older women

Lead author Ashley Robinson, a second-year internal medicine resident at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, explained: “Rates of anal cancer are rising fastest among white and Hispanic women over 65 — groups not traditionally considered high risk

“While the exact reasons behind this trend remain unclear, most older women were beyond the recommended age for human papillomavirus vaccination when it first became widely available.”

Human papillomavirus, known as HPV, causes 90 per cent of anal cancers.

As part of the study, the researchers analysed data from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 2917 to 2021.

They found anal cancer increased by 2.9 per cent for women and 1.6 per cent for men.

Anal cancers increased fastest among white women over 65, who saw 4.3 per cent increase during the five-year study period, reaching 11.4 cases per 100,000 in 2021.

If the trend were to continue, the researchers said the incidence of anal cancer in women over age 65 would double in less than 17 years.

Hispanic women over age 65 had the second-highest rate of anal cancer, with 7.5 cases per 100,000 people in 2021 and a slower annual increase of 1.7 per cent.

“It’s crucial that we promote HPV vaccination as a key tool for preventing anal cancer, while also keeping health care providers informed as screening guidelines evolve,” Dr. Robinson said.

“These findings highlight specific patient groups who may benefit from targeted screening for anal HPV and anal cancer.”

Anal cancer is considered rare, making up around 2 per cent to 2.5 per cent of gastrointestinal cancers.

Approximately 90 per cent of cases are linked to HPV infections, making it the most significant risk factor.

There’s no national screening programme for anal cancer in the UK because the cancer is rare.

While most cases of anal cancer are linked to HPV, there isn’t currently a reliable test to check for HPV in the anus.

Anal cancer symptoms

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One of the best things to do is to look out for symptoms.

Anal cancer symptoms can be difficult to spot, as they often mimic more common and less serious conditions like hemorrhoids or anal fissures. 

Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all in the early stages. 

The NHS says to watch out for the following six signs:

• bleeding from your bottom
• itching and pain around your anus
• small lumps around and inside your bottom
• a discharge of mucus from your bottom
• having problems controlling when you poo (bowel incontinence)
• needing to poo often with looser, runnier poos

You may be more likely to get anal cancer if you:

• have anal sex
• are over the age of 75
• smoke
• have had cervical, vaginal or vulval cancer
• have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV or an organ transplant

Find out how you can reduce your risk below…

In a TikTok video with over 500,000 likes, a flight attendant and travel influencer exposes the popular complementary beverages you should avoid on an airplane and why.

Airlines have been stepping up their game when it comes to in-flight menus, though this sometimes comes with an inflated cost.

Still, staples like water, tea, coffee and juice are free and reliable on long-haul flights. But one flight attendant has warned against consuming some of these beverages mid-flight.

Kat Kamalani, who gained prominence on social media by sharing little-known travel hacks and tips, has issued a stark warning to her followers, as previously reported by The Mirror. In a TikTok video that has earned over half a million likes, Kat advises: “Don’t you ever, ever, ever consume these products from an airplane, from a flight attendant! Rule number one never consume any liquid that is not in a can or a bottle.”

READ MORE: easyJet, Ryanair, BA and TUI rules for bringing food onto the plane over Easter

She explains that this is because of the hygiene and cleanliness around the plane’s water tanks. “Those water tanks are never cleaned and they are disgusting. Talk to a flight attendant,” says Kat.

She also says while you may be desperate for a coffee or tea – even if it is subpar – it’s best to steer clear. “We rarely rarely drink the coffee or tea. They come from the same water tank. And so when you’re drinking that coffee and tea come from that hot water and it’s absolutely disgusting.”

Kat also points out that the coffee machines are rarely sanitised unless they malfunction. “These little coffee guys, they are rarely cleaned unless they are broken,” she said. “These guys are taken out and cleaned in between flights, but the whole machine is never cleaned and they’re by the lavatories.”

For parents and guardians, Kat urges them to “never ever” ask for hot water for their baby’s formula but provides a smart alternative. “Pro tip for all you parents: never ask for hot water and put it in your baby’s bottle. Ask for a bottle of water on the side and hot water in a cup.” She continues: “Then make your baby a bottle with the bottled water. Put it in the cup and heat it up.”

The TikTok video received a wide range of mixed reactions, including shock and disgust from frequent flyers. Heading to the comment section, viewers debated Kat’s revelations and advice and joked about the quality of airplane beverages. One user wrote: ” Ah that’s why my hot chocolate was rank.”

The safety of water on a plane depends on the cleanliness of the tank, the quality of the water that was loaded, and the maintenance practices of the airline. There have been concerns and studies about the microbiological quality of tap water served on planes over the years.

If you are really keen on a coffee, some airlines let your bring hot drinks onto a plane with some stipulations. For example, easyJet permits passengers to bring hot drinks into the cabin as long as they have been purchased at the airport and have the lid on.

Additionally, if you are concerned about the safety of the water for your baby’s formula, know the liquid limit on many airlines does not apply to baby products. According to easyJet, the 100mL LAG limit does not apply to baby food, milk or sterilised water, though there is a maximum limit of 2 litres.

But keep in mind, you may be asked to taste these foods for security reasons and you should check with cabin crews about how to warm up milk if necessary.

According to a ranking by travel professionals, this tiny beach in Santanyi has been named one of Europe’s best beaches of 2025 despite being the site of a major protest in 2024

A small cove with crystal blue waters, and only a small stretch of sand, has been named among the 50 best beaches in the world.

A new report from The World’s 50 Best Beaches has named Mallorcan beach Es Caló des Moro, the ninth best beach in Europe as part of its 2025 list of Europe’s 50 Best Beaches. According to the company: “The ranking was voted on by over 1,000 travel professionals, including our judges, Beach Ambassadors and our own World’s 50 Beaches team.”

Es Caló des Moro, dubbed a hidden gem, is just 3.7-miles from the town of Santanyi in the southeast corner of Mallorca. Despite its relatively small size – only 40 metres in length – it is regularly praised for its fine sands and turquoise waters.

READ MORE: Brit tourists scramble to lesser-known but insanely beautiful Spanish island

One of the reasons the beach is so beloved by British holidaymakers is because of its relative seclusion. Es Caló des Moro sits deep inside a bay with white cliffs creating a sense of privacy for sunbathers.

That said, the beach’s seclusion also makes it somewhat difficult to access. To get down to the water you will need to walk around 100m on foot. But, it is possible to drive all the way down to the beach, if accessibility is a concern. The beach is also a regular haunt for locals who are fiercely protective of it, having put up signs saying that the road is private.

If you are able to take the flight of stairs down to the beach, you will pass the beach Cala s’Almunia on the way down. While Es Caló des Moro is considered the more picturesque of the two, Cala s’Alumunia offers a wonderful detour with its rocky outcroppings and pine tree surroundings. The water is just as clear as further below, though the shore is more gravel than sand at times.

The beach’s limited accessibility also means that modern conveniences like sunbed and parasol rental and beach bars and restaurants are not available. This is also likely because of its popularity with the locals, who wished to keep the beach under the radar for a while.

There are also no water sport activities at Es Caló des Moro. However, crystal-clear and calm conditions of the water mean that the beach is ideal for snorkelling. The water is relatively shallow though, but that makes it well-suited for children.

As Es Caló des Moro has gained greater attention and drawn the interest of foreign holidaymakers, locals have begun to increasingly avoid the area. Es Caló des Moro has become one of the four beaches most heavily avoided by locals, according to a recent research project.

The research project was conducted by Sergio Obrador of the Demographic and Tourism Studies Group at the University of the Balearic Islands and was designed to determine the effects of overcrowding on the mobility of local residents. Of the random sample of 404 residents that participated in a survey, 85% said they had stopped visiting certain places on the island due to overcrowding in the summer.

Mallorcan locals confirmed that the majority of the places they had begun to avoid due to overcrowding were beaches and coves. Four of these beaches locals named were: Es Caló des Moro, Es Trenc, Sa Calobra and Magaluf. Access in Es Caló des Moro became an increasingly heated issue. In fact, in the summer of 2024 the beach became the site of a major local-led protest against overcrowding.

Around 300 residents gathered on Es Caló des Moro cove in Santanyi protesting overcrowding on the Spanish island on June 16, 2024. The police were called after protesters began shouting “tourists go home” and officials called for the removal of protest banners from the beach.

On The World’s 50 Best Beaches list of Europe’s best for 2025, six beaches are in Spain. Playa de Rodas came in fourth on the ranking while Cala Macarelleta also cracked the top 20, taking fourteenth place.

The competition for prime sunbed spots in popular beach destinations has been ramping up in recent years. One TikTok video shows how Tenerife tourists are now trying to game the system.

Tenerife tourists have gone to new, drastic measures to ensure the best spot for their sunbed in crowded areas. While somewhat savvy, the move has been deemed “pathetic” after a video of the tactic made the rounds on social media.

Sunbed wars are not a new phenomenon, in tourist hotbeds across Greece, Spain and Italy, tourists have had to get creative to secure a spot by the pool or on a beach. As tourist numbers rise along with safety concerns, leaving your towel and few non-essential belongings to reserve your spot is no longer a strong option.

But a recent video posted to TikTok shows guests at a hotel in Playa de las Américas, Tenerife, have adapted with a new strategy. In footage uploaded by the account @holidaybestbits, guests can be seen waiting by an empty pool area during the early hours of the morning.

READ MORE: Spanish police to slap sunbed hoggers with £200 fine and take tourists’ clothes

The guests appear to be standing still in designated spots in a bid to ‘reserve’ a space for one of the sunbeds being unloaded onto the area. The video even captures one guest helping unload a sunbed into where he was standing.

In the comment section of the video, people largely condemned the move. One person wrote: “Pathetic really. F*****g grown ups,’ while another said: “This is why I no longer take these types of holidays”.

A third declared: “Never ever have I been on holiday and had to do that. May this kind of holiday never find me.” One viewer said this is not a new tactic and has been going on for a while: “Ha ha – we went there in 2019 and that’s what the done thing was then too!!”

Hotels have tried to address the growing issue over the years, that has only been exacerbated by mass tourism to beach destinations. One innovative approach by the Olympic Lagoon resort in Ayi has been to assign guests a sunbed for the duration of their stay, though this may not be feasible for all hotels.

Hotel staff in major resorts have also begun to crackdown on ‘sunbed hogs’ by hiring bouncers. Police in the popular Costa Blanca resort of Calp have taken to removing sunbeds, towels, parasols and any other belongings placed on the sand before 9.30am.

Tourists and locals who breach the ban will have to pay to retrieve them from a municipal depot and face a penalty charge of €250 (£210).

A council spokesperson wrote on X: “This measure prohibits the indiscriminate occupation of the public domain, especially the beach, with items such as chairs, hammocks and parasols at the start of the day. These bad habits make it difficult to clean the beaches.”

Sunbed hogs don’t just take up space, but they ruin the experience of other beachgoers. One Australian couple found that greedy holidaymakers were spoiling their time away in Bali, but they got revenge in the end.

A flight attendant has warned passengers that it is unhygienic to remove shoes during a flight – as they don’t have enough time to properly clean the floor or bathrooms

A holiday company has issued a warning to travellers against the common practice of removing shoes during flights. Given that many popular holiday spots require several hours of air travel, it’s understandable that passengers seek ways to maximise their comfort while airborne.

An anonymous British Airways flight attendant shared their disdain for this habit, highlighting the unhygienic nature of shoe removal on planes. They stated: “My most hated habit is when passengers get their bare feet out on the plane. Not only is it unpleasant for other travellers and attendants nearby, but it’s also extremely unhygienic.”

READ MORE: ‘Charlotte Tilbury’s new double-ended lip liner makes my lips look like they have filler’

They further explained: “While cabins are cleaned before every flight, there’s rarely enough time to disinfect and deep clean floors and bathrooms.

“We’d never advise moving throughout the aircraft barefoot or just wearing socks – you never know what you might be walking on – especially in the bathroom.”

Despite a recent survey revealing that 44 per cent of tourists find the habit irritating, many continue to remove their shoes for added comfort during flights, reports the Express.

However, this practice can lead to the spread of bacteria, particularly when passengers move around the cabin or visit the lavatory.

Moreover, some aviation experts have suggested that being shoeless could increase the risk of injuries in the unlikely event of an aircraft accident.

Ocean Florida’s marketing manager, Abby Dunn, has a top tip for those boarding long-haul flights: pack a pair of comfy slippers.

She elaborated: “The best thing you can do to ensure maximum comfort and cleanliness while on long-haul journeys is to bring a pair of slippers which can be worn during the flight.”

Abby also mentioned that these slippers can double up as cosy footwear for your holiday accommodation and for your journey back home.

Moreover, Abby highlighted the fact that cabin crews particularly value passengers who are considerate and gracious.

She added: “Travellers who have an awareness of flight etiquette make the job so much easier – for example keeping their designated area tidy, engaging in conversation and not being overly demanding. These habits make the journey much smoother for everyone.”

Abby went on to mention how thoughtful gestures towards flight attendants don’t go unnoticed.

“As flight attendants, we also always appreciate passengers who are thoughtful enough to bring us small gifts or chocolate – and this will usually get you some preferential treatment while on board.”