Holidays

White sand, dark past on the German Baltic

Spend some time on Rügen, Germany’s largest island, on its Baltic coast. White sandy beaches and darker history await. Visit Lauterbach, by the sea. From there, catch the coastal ferry to the tiny fishing village of Baabe, a near three-mile (5km) walk/cycle through rolling countryside and catch the “Raging Roland” steam train back again. Not far away, you can walk the cliffs that inspired Caspar David Friedrich. For a very different day, visit Prora and its massive beachside concrete apartment blocks, originally planned as a Nazi holiday complex, before becoming a Soviet army barracks, and now a part ruin, part reunification commercial and residential redevelopment.
Richard

Deserted beaches on the Danish Riviera

Who needs the scorching Med when you have the Danish Riviera. The water is clean and refreshing. No wetsuits allowed – you’ll be laughed off the beach. Danish summer hols are in July so you’ll have the beach to yourself in August. Book a summer cottage near Gilleleje, a charming fishing village about an hour from Copenhagen. Denmark is expensive, so self-catering is best. Ice-cream at Hansens. Lunch in Gilleleje harbour. Culture at Louisiana modern art museum and Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør. And day trips to Copenhagen.
Christina

To Hel and back in Poland

Hel is a tiny spit of land north of Gdańsk. Guys selling hot smoked fish meet you as you get off the ferry. Getting there is an adventure in itself, as the ferry takes you past the colossal cranes of Gdańsk’s shipyards. Long sandy beaches, pine forests and a small picturesque village make Hel a fantastic place to spend a few days. Famous for its seals, as well as its seaside, it really is the opposite of its fiery namesake.
Lucy Moore

Swimming and seafood in Sweden

We’ve just returned from a Scandi road trip and had four fantastic, chilled nights on Björkö. It’s only 30 minutes from central Gothenburg by (free!) car ferry and regular buses. Great swimming and beaches; micro breweries and fresh fish; sunsets and sunrises to die for; days out in Gothenburg, including the excellent Liseberg theme park, with no queues for proper scary rides – highly recommended.
James

Rowing in Finland’s Åland archipelago

Fuelled by our kids’ love of flags and a craving for quiet, we chose Åland, thousands of islands scattered between Sweden and Finland like granite gods wept there. We cycled between clouds and old boat sheds, stopping for smoked herring and cardamom pancakes with stewed prunes (sexier than it sounds). By the time Ivar lent us ancient alder oars to row to the next island, knowing they’d be returned by a friend, we’d learned that Åland doesn’t welcome visitors – it absorbs them.
Eliza Ainley

Cliff-edge drama in north-west Spain

Based in Oviedo (the ideal compact city), in Asturias, we would explore the coast one day, mountains the next, finding unexpected Gaudí buildings, gingerbread houses in Ribadesella, amazing cemeteries on cliff edges, enjoyable easy driving on perfect roads, gorgeous unspoilt beaches and great weather! Few tourists, thousands of Camino pilgrims along the way and (very weak) cider! Cannot wait to return and yes, we’d love to live there.
Annie Hargreaves

An idyllic island off Brittany, France

Camping Panorama du Rohou, near Paimpol in northern Brittany, has excellent views over to the beautiful Île de Bréhat. Walk down through the forest behind the campsite to take a short ferry ride to the island. Hire a bike or walk to explore its rocky coves and quaint villages. A lighthouse at the far end of the island has great views and is a good spot for a picnic, or to have a Breton galette or crepe at nearby Paradise Rose. Les Scènes de Bréhat is an annual festival with live music at the beginning of July; late-running ferries get you back to the mainland.
Stella

Arctic beach holiday, Norway

When we booked a trip to northern Norway’s stunning Lofoten Islands and Andøya we didn’t expect a beach holiday, but blessed with August temperatures in the high 20s we spent days swimming in the Arctic Ocean. Bleik beach on Andøya is one of the longest in Norway – “bleik” means “white” or “pale” in Norwegian, and the almost empty white sand, coupled with refreshing blue sea and the towering cliffs behind the beach, made for a perfect end to a day’s hiking. Puffins abound here, and whale watching trips are available from Andenes, just a few miles to the north.
Rachel

Seafood and sailing in Hanko, Finland

Hanko, Finland’s southernmost seaside gem, sits on a sandy dune that stretches out into the Baltic Sea. The town comes alive in early July during the celebrated Hanko Regatta, a sailing festival that draws about 200 yachts. To reach Hanko from Helsinki, take the VR train from Helsinki Central for about €15. Rent a bike once you arrive to explore the sandy beaches bordered by an ancient pine forest, historic villas and nature reserve. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood with Baltic views and sit down for a pint of Lonkero. Don’t miss the spa scene and wild swimming!
Liina

Winning tip: Bike to the beach in North Holland

Aan Noordzee campsite, on the North Holland coast, has a simple, tranquil feel and no entertainment facilities. With separate cycleways everywhere, you can explore the beautiful coastline up to Den Helder and, by ferry, Texel island (sandy beaches, pretty towns and robust Texel sheep). An unspoilt beach walkable from the campsite awaits, with dune footpaths that lead to restaurants built on stilts. The sunsets over the North Sea are stunning. Alkmaar is accessible via a regular bus service.
Nicola Hull

A TEENAGER has died after a car she was travelling in crashed into a tree on a rural road in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The woman, 18, tragically passed away when the silver Renault Clio – which she was a passenger in – collided with a tree after veering off the road in Hartlepool at 4.18am on Thursday, Cleveland Police said.

A 26-year-old man, who was driving the vehicle, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving as well as other driving offences.

He remains in police custody at this time.

The tragic crash took place on a road known locally as Greatham Back Lane, which connects the A689 to Greatham village.

Police said the woman suffered fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Cops are now looking to witnesses or anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage of the silver Clio in the village to come forward.

You can contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference number 148268.

Alternatively, you can upload footage directly by following this link.

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A charming city in Cheshire has been dubbed the UK’s most underrated and the ‘world’s most beautiful’, thanks to its sandstone walls and charming canal, likened to Venice

A compact yet exquisite city is frequently hailed as one of Britain’s most overlooked gems and has even been dubbed the “world’s most beautiful city”.

Chester, which boasts over 2,000 years of heritage, has been recognised for its beauty based on a mathematical principle that artists and academics have recognised since ancient times. Stooped in history, the city in northwest England has witnessed Roman occupation, Viking raids, and Norman conquest

Today, it welcomes thousands of far more pleasant tourists, but when it comes to essential UK destinations, it doesn’t rank as highly on travellers’ wish lists as places like York, Oxford, Bath or Cambridge. It comes after reports of a small fishing village with some of the UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.

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Due to Chester’s charm, travel specialists at Wanderlust magazine have crowned it Britain’s most undervalued city. The Telegraph similarly described it as “a touch underrated” – dubbing it “the surprising city that’s better than Oxford and Norwich”.

Chester is renowned for its ancient red sandstone walls and a retail quarter brimming with spectacular half-timbered Tudor structures. It’s been declared Britain’s most haunted city – and houses the nation’s second most popular zoo, trailing only London Zoo, reports the Express.

This north-western treasure is also an excellent destination for retail therapy, tourist attractions and dining experiences. In addition, Chester showcases stunning architecture.

Recent studies found that a significant proportion of its buildings conform to the “golden ratio” – the mathematical proportion believed to be most visually appealing. Incredibly, the research revealed that Chester outshone even Venice in terms of its Golden ratio score, crowning it as the most beautiful city globally.

Chester boasts the most intact Roman city walls in Britain and houses one of the UK’s oldest churches – St John’s, established in AD689 by the king of Mercia. The city also features an 11th-century castle and a 16th-century Cathedral, which played host to a Royal wedding earlier this year.

If you’re not particularly enthralled by architecture or history, perhaps a scenic cruise along the stunning River Dee might be more appealing. For those who prefer retail therapy, Chester is a paradise for shopaholics.

The Rows, 700-year-old two-tiered timber-framed galleries lining the city’s main streets, are brimming with independent shops, boutiques, and eateries. Chester’s award-winning market also offers a colourful array of produce and goods.

For those seeking high street brands, the Grosvenor Shopping Centre has got you covered. This large shopping precinct is undercover, but like the rest of Chester, it radiates historical charm. After a day of shopping, you can recharge at some of the city’s finest eateries, as Chester is famed for the quality of its restaurants.

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A charming fishing town in Cornwall has become a favourite among tourists with its beautiful harbour, sandy beaches and culinary scene, making it an ideal holiday escape

A quaint fishing town nestled on the northern coast of Cornwall has become a cherished hotspot for holidaymakers.

Boasting a picturesque harbour, breathtaking sandy beaches, and an emerging food scene led by top chefs, Padstow provides an idyllic escape for those seeking a unique UK holiday experience. As one of Britain’s premier destinations, this coastal gem welcomes an estimated five million visitors annually.

Despite its popularity, Padstow tends to draw smaller crowds than its neighbour, St Ives, according to Leisure Lakes Bikes. It comes after reports of a small fishing village with some of UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.

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The town’s scenic harbour, considered one of Britain’s ‘most beautiful harbours’, is situated on the western bank of the Camel Estuary. It’s adorned with sailing boats and radiates a timeless charm, reports the Express.

Padstow’s beaches, including Hawkers Cove, Harlyn Bay and Trevone Bay, are renowned for their stunning vistas, golden sands, and top-notch facilities. These beaches are a hit with families, surfers, paddlers, and kayakers alike.

In recent times, Padstow has earned a reputation as a gastronomic haven. The town’s culinary standing was significantly boosted by the arrival of famed chef Rick Stein, who, along with his wife, opened his flagship seafood restaurant here in 1975.

Stein’s impact can be seen across Padstow, with the town even dubbed “Padstein” thanks to his collection of establishments, including the Seafood Restaurant, Rick Stein’s Café, St Petroc’s Bistro and Stein’s Fish & Chips.

The celebrity chef’s eateries have built a worldwide following for delivering the finest seafood, while his TV programmes like “Rick Stein’s Cornwall” on BBC2 have thrust Padstow into the spotlight.

Beyond its seafood credentials, Padstow features a varied culinary landscape and caters to all tastes, from relaxed meals to fine dining masterpieces. Italian eatery Pucelli and Paul Ainsworth’s Michelin-starred No6 both deliver outstanding gastronomic adventures.

Though Padstow draws crowds, it tends to be quieter beyond the busy summer period, providing a more peaceful and pleasant visit. So if you’re seeking your next holiday hotspot, Padstow deserves a place at the top of your wishlist.

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Europe is packed with amazing city break destinations but there’s one destination that gets overlooked despite its laidback vibes and spectacular natural beauty

One European destination offers a city break for those looking to seek adventure and reconnect with nature in a way that other cities don’t.

I’ll be honest, while I was desperate to visit Switzerland, Geneva itself was not at the top of my list. Although, with the help of Geneva Tourism’s immersive itinerary, I was able to see it for exactly what it is: a breath of fresh air.

The global city has acted as an international centre for diplomacy for decades and hosts the highest number of international organisations in the world, which is why it is known as the ‘peace capital’. This idea of peace extends beyond the bounds of bureaucracy into the lifestyle of the locals and the kind of getaways it offers to tourists.

Unlike other city breaks, a weekend away in Geneva is spent surrounded by the mountains, with ample opportunity to tuck into Swiss favourites from the local vineyards and that world-famous chocolate. The whole trip felt incredibly wholesome. It’s not necessarily the cheapest of city breaks, but it does offer a quiet luxury that rivals the likes of Monaco or Paris.

To make exploring as seamless as possible, Geneva offers a City Pass, starting at £28, giving you access to over 60 attractions for free or at a discounted price. This one pass works as your key to the city; whether you use it to travel from place to place, unwind with a vineyard tour, go sailing along the lake, or visit a museum, there’s plenty on offer.

I used it to travel around the city on the bus and tram systems, which I found easy to use and locate, and even on a less ordinary mode of transport – the Mont Salève cable carts. Sitting on the outskirts of Geneva, accessible by bus, the cable cars, within minutes, take you to the highest heights, offering panoramic views of the city and the French Alps.

At the heart of the city is Lake Geneva, which has breathtakingly clear water. The city is built around the lake, meaning the best way to explore Geneva is to take to the lake. There are water sports opportunities and boat trips galore. The Geneva Tour cruise is free with a City Pass and allows you to set sail for a one-hour getaway along the water. After leaving the harbour, this boat tour offers unparalleled views of Mont Blanc and surrounding mountains, local monuments and picturesque villas.

I set out to make waves with Genevaboat, on a small but luxurious – and most impressively private – motor that took us far and wide across the vastness of the deep blue. For those wanting to experience the true freshness of its turquoise blue waters, this boating experience offered a wakeboard and skis, or you could simply hop off for a dip on your own in the serene setting.

One highlight not to be missed is the River Rhône. From barbecues to picnics, sunbathing and a quick swim, it’s popular with locals looking to reconnect with nature and soak up the translucent water. My way of enjoying the river was slightly more adventurous and had me hammering down the rapids in a raft.

If you’re a seasoned city breaker, you’ve most likely done your fair share of boat trips. As beautiful as they can be, it can be a slightly predictable way to see a place. Not so with this activity, which was provided by Rafting Loisir. Not only do you get to have some peaceful moments floating along the water with the tip of Mont Blanc as your backdrop, but you also get the adrenaline-fuelled chaos of the dams as you get drenched with water.

That said, if your instructor is half as fun as ours was, they’ll use any excuse to get you into the water, or simply resort to playfully pushing you in. Geneva is a city that lets you embrace the great outdoors, in whichever way you feel most comfortable: quite literally in the deep end, or from your comfort zone.

As for exploring a little further afield? I never considered a biking tour while on a trip, but my god, it was the best way to see the hidden hills of the countryside in Geneva. And to make life even more easy-going, just like the Swiss, Welo bike tours offered electric bikes, so you’re only really doing half of the work.

The quiet life can be found just 20 minutes or so outside of the city, just a stones throw away from the French border in a patch of dream-like countryside. We made a pit stop to one of the local family-run vineyards for a wine tasting session which is an absolute must if you want a real taste of Switzerland, or if you’re just looking for a bit of a buzz.

From a tourist perspective, the Swiss are all about a casual glass (or bottle) of wine with dinner, and less so a rowdy round of beers in a bar. Throughout the three days I spent there, I didn’t spot a single patch that was bustling with punters, despite the plentiful euros and the gorgeous sunshine.

As for foodies, the city offers an impressive selection of spots for real fine dining. It’s knowing where to find them that is the tricky part in a city that feels incredibly compact. Geneva Tourism makes it a lot easier with their numerous food guides which are available online, listing the top spots for whatever vibe you’re after.

The most impressive of the food came when we paid a visit to L‘Auberge D‘Hermance, a quaint restaurant buried in a mediaeval village by the lakeside. I tasted fresh local vegetable dishes, while the others tucked into their famous chicken, and the table was met with plenty of satisfying ‘hmmm’ sounds with each bite.

Alongside that, I can’t help but mention the brand new Ottolenghi that just opened in the city centre, making the perfect work lunch spot for those attending Geneva on business. Hand on heart, I haven’t tasted food that good in years. While the dishes seemed simple, the flavours hidden within were unreal.

What Geneva does so effortlessly is blend a wide range of cultures, whether that’s through its food, wines, languages, or lifestyle, and a visit gives you the chance to experience it all while offering something entirely new.

Book the holiday

• Welo bike tours start from Adult 49 CHF / Child 40 CHF for three hours. Find out more on www.welo.swiss/en/.
• The Geneva CityPass starts from 30 CHF for 24 hours. Find out more on www.geneve.com.
• Genevaboats tours start from 400 CHF for an hour. Find out more on www.genevaboats.com.
• A number of airlines offer direct flights to Geneva from the UK including easyJet, British Airways and Jet2.

One of Europe’s coolest seaside towns has flown under the radar for years but in recent months it’s becoming quite the hotspot rivalling popular holiday towns in Spain

A beautiful seaside town that boasts a palm-fringed promenade and azure waters has been named as one of ‘Europe’s coolest’, with insiders saying it rivals hotspots in the likes of Majorca and Ibiza.

Tivat in Montenegro is being hailed as an alternative summer destination for Brits, thanks to its balmy temperatures, gorgeous coastal views and lack of huge tourist crowds to be found in other European destinations.

The good news for Brits is that you don’t need to break the bank if you want to see it for yourself. easyJet and Jet2 both offer direct flights to Tivat from London, and the cheapest fares tend to be in October according to Skyscanner, which shows return flights from £59 to the gorgeous seaside town, with a flight time of just under three hours.

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As for accommodation, Tivat has a reputation of being all about luxury hotels and chic stays, but there are actually a number of budget-friendly options too. For example, you can find hotel stays from £34 a night with Kayak.

There’s plenty to see and do in town too. One of the highlights has to be Porto Montenegro which is home to plenty of harbour-front restaurants and shops with views out to the boats as well as some of the area’s rocky beaches. Adventure seekers may also want to consider a boat trip to explore the region.

The Pine Embankment tends to be a hit with visitors because it boasts a wide promenade lined with shops and restaurants as well as attractions such as the historic Jadran Ship. It’s worth noting that this area can be a little pricey – think the sort of vibes you’d get at Mykonos but with less of a party scene.

For those who want to explore some of the beautiful scenery that Montenegro has to offer, Tivat can be a great base from which to head into the mountains and take on the breathtaking hiking trails. Mount Vrmac tends to be a popular spot for those who want everything from an easy stroll to challenging hikes.

In recent months Tivat has been capturing the attention of intrepid explorers. Insiders at travel firm Welcome Pickups, which organises airport and port transfers, described it as “one of Europe’s most exciting summer alternatives” after seeing a 200% increase in bookings to the hotspot just this year.

Dimitris Floros, the company’s CCO, added: “Tivat is capturing the attention of holidaymakers who are looking for the luxury and scenery of the Mediterranean without the premium price tag. We’ve seen a remarkable 200% increase in airport transfers in Tivat since 2024, reflecting how quickly this destination is climbing the ranks with British travellers.

“Its sleek infrastructure, combined with the charm of Porto Montenegro and seamless connectivity from the UK, make it a standout alternative to more saturated spots like Dubrovnik or Ibiza. The surge in demand shows that British travellers are not just looking for new destinations, they’re looking for ease, value, and a touch of indulgence, all of which Tivat delivers beautifully.”

Do you have a travel story that you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].

JACK Osbourne has revealed the touching way tributes left by Ozzy’s fans will be saved, with flowers to be buried at his final resting place.

The late rock legend’s son shared a heartwarming clip to Instagram and explained how hand-written letters, memorabilia, and merch are being “carefully preserved”.

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They were left at the Black Sabbath Bridge after news of Ozzy’s death broke and during his funeral procession through Birmingham last week.

Jack told how every item will be recorded on a digital database and given to the Osbourne family.

A video showed all the tributes laid out in rows, being photographed and logged.

“Here’s how tributes for Ozzy Osbourne are being carefully preserved by Central BID,” read the caption.

“All items from the Black Sabbath Bridge and Navigation St Mural have now been moved to a secure location.

“Every piece is being laid out individually, catalogued and treated with care.

“Our team has been working to respectfully sort the items ensuring they’re preserved in the best possible condition.

“We will be working to create a digital record of every tribute over the next few weeks to be sent to Ozzy’s family.

“The flowers are being mulched and bagged, with the compost to be included at Ozzy’s final resting place.

“Thank you for all of your tributes.”

One emotional fan penned: “Such a beautiful way to respect us fans and allow the family to see how much your Dad was adored.”

Another wrote: “Imagine all the different stories in those letters and cards from people old and young, all over the world all being bought together by one person who had an impact on their lives in some way.”

“That is so awesome, Ozzy touched so many people all over the world. What a wonderful way to acknowledge his fans,” shared a third.

Someone else agreed: “This is amazing and show just how much you loved your dad and also respected his fans. You should all be proud of what you did for his legacy.”

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“Wow and wow what an awesome tribute to your dad. God bless you Jack and your family,” added a fifth.

It comes after Jack paid an emotional tribute to his dad and told how his heart has “hurt too much” to speak out.

Ozzy’s youngest son shared a short video compilation of clips and photographs of himself and his father.

The 39-year-old was seen supporting his mum Sharon and his sisters Kelly, 40, and Aimee, 41, at their dad’s funeral.

He appeared on the American reality TV show The Osbournes as a child alongside his father, sisters and mother.

Jack said: “I haven’t really wanted to post anything since the passing of my father.

“My heart has hurt too much. I’m gonna keep this short because he certainly hated long rambling speeches.

“He was so many things to so many people, but I was so lucky and blessed to be a part of a very small group that got to call him Dad.

“My heart is full of so much sadness and sorrow, but also so much love and gratitude.

“I got 14,501 days with that man and I know that is such a blessing. I think this quote best describes my father.”

The tribute was followed by a quote from Hunter S. Thompson, known for writing Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

It reads: “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body… but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, ‘Wow! What a ride!'”

Jack went on to say that the quote from the American author summed up his dad, adding “he lived his life fully.”

Meanwhile Sharon earlier revealed Ozzy’s poignant final words about his fans following his farewell Black Sabbath concert.

She told Pollstar: “It was the first time, I think, that anybody’s gone into retirement and done it, where the show is streamed and it goes to charity.

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“So it’s the first time anybody has said goodnight like that, it’s the perfect way, when you’ve had such a long career, to end it – I never wanted Ozzy to just disappear without some big event.

“He [Ozzy] turned around and he said to me that night, he said, ‘I had no idea that so many people liked me’.”

Last Thursday, an “incredibly emotional” funeral service was held for the rocker, a family friend told The Sun.

The family home was decorated with pictures of Ozzy, and mourners were given a photograph of him to take home.

The singer’s nearest and dearest attended, joining his wife Sharon and his children Jack, Kelly, Aimee, and Louis, his son from his first marriage to Thelma Riley.

His official death certificate lists ‘acute myocardial infarction’ and ‘out of hospital cardiac arrest’ under the cause of death section.

It also listed coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease with autonomic dysfunction as “joint causes” of Ozzy’s death.

The document described his occupation as a “rock legend, songwriter and performer” in a heart-warming nod towards Ozzy.

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BY rights, I shouldn’t really be talking to The Black Keys duo, Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney.

But here they are on a Zoom call with me to discuss their thirteenth studio album, No Rain, No Flowers.

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The 11 tracks are coming kicking and screaming into the sunlight earlier than expected — and for good reason.

Last September, The Black Keys were supposed to start a North American arena tour in support of their previous album, Ohio Players, noted for songs written with Noel Gallagher and Beck.

But, to their dismay, the dates were scrapped, prompting the pair to fire their management team.

Without going into detail, Auerbach says: “The first thing I wanted to do was kill somebody and the second thing I wanted to do was kill somebody.”

Carney adds: “I don’t want to get into it too much because we’ve gotten letters telling us not to talk about it by one of the most powerful people in the music industry.

“We got f***ed by the person who was supposed to be looking out for us.

“So, because of some bad advice, we were left with no plans for the summer. We had to take one on the chin.”

The situation was a rare mis-step in The Black Keys’ upward trajectory, which stretches back nearly 25 years.

Starting out in a dingy basement in Akron, Ohio, childhood friends Auerbach and Carney took their exhilarating mix of bluesy garage rock to the world stage, drawing on soul, hip hop, psychedelia, you name it, along the way.

Their new album, however, is the product of unplanned time on their hands. Still smarting from losing their tour, they convened at Auerbach’s Easy Eye Sound studio in his adopted hometown of Nashville — and set about turning adversity into triumph.

‘Reminder of the power of our music’

“We realised that maybe we’d better do something positive with this free time,” says the singer/guitarist.

“So we dove head first into working with people we’d never met and trying things we’d never tried before as a band. Ultimately, it really helped us.”

For drummer Carney, it was a natural reaction to what had happened.

“When Dan and I are not on the road, we’re in the studio,” he says.

“So we thought, ‘Let’s just get back in there and reboot’.”

One thing that remains undiminished is the cast-iron bond between Auerbach and Carney.

The latter affirms: “We’ve been doing this together for almost 25 years — from the struggle to the big s**t.

We got f***ed… so we thought we should do something positive

Carney

“Dealing with being broke, dealing with getting money, headlining Coachella, dealing with getting married, getting divorced, having kids, we’ve been through it all.

“As screwed up as last year was, it had very little to do with us so we got back on it, to prove to ourselves what we can do.”

As we speak, The Black Keys have been back on tour — on this side of the Atlantic.

Carney says it can be “brutal chasing the festivals, sleeping on the bus or in hotel rooms.

“But getting out here and getting in front of these crowds has been the biggest reminder of the power of our music.

“Seeing the fans flip out has helped us to get our heads out of music-business bulls*t and back into what it’s all about”.

Auerbach agrees: “The show in London [at Alexandra Palace] was the biggest headliner we’ve ever played.

“It was great after the year we had. Whatever happens, we know the fans are still there for us.”

Another thrill was playing Manchester’s Sounds Of The City festival two days before the first Oasis homecoming gig at the city’s Heaton Park.

“The atmosphere was electric. Our audience was so up for it,” says Auerbach.

Noel and Liam are both incredible — we’re really happy for them

Auerbach

He credits Oasis with lifting the mood. “I feel like they’ve transformed the continent. We’ve never seen anything like it.”

And he couldn’t resist visiting the Oasis Adidas store. “I had one of the black soccer jerseys made — Oasis on the front and AUERBACH on the back. Had to do it, man, they’re the kings.”

It was in 2023 that The Black Keys visited Toe Rag Studios in Hackney, East London, to write three songs with Noel Gallagher, who they describe as “the chord lord”.

Auerbach says: “It was amazing. We just sat in a circle with our instruments and we worked things up from nowhere.

“Not too long after that we played a song with Liam [in Milan] and hung out with him afterwards. He gave us some really good advice about our setlist.

“Noel and Liam are both incredible — we’re really happy for them.”

‘We’d never written with a piano player’

We return to the subject of their new album, No Rain, No Flowers, which involved a new approach for The Black Keys.

Instead of big-name guests like Noel and Beck and, before them, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, they turned to acclaimed songwriters — the unsung heroes — for their collaborative process.

They welcomed into their world Rick Nowels (Madonna, Stevie Nicks, Lana Del Rey), Scott Storch (Dr Dre, Nas) and Daniel Tashian (Kacey Musgraves).

Auerbach had encountered Nowels while producing Lana Del Rey’s 2014 third album Ultraviolence and had long been impressed with his keyboard skills.

He says: “We’d never written with a piano player before. After 20-plus years in the band, it was cool to try something new in the studio.”

Carney adds: “The way we worked with each one of these people was completely different.

“With Daniel, for instance, we’d start with a jam session. With Rick, it was all about getting the title of the song.”

And Auerbach again: “Scott’s all about instrumentation. He didn’t want to think about the words. He just lets you do that stuff afterwards.”

One of the co-writes with Nowels is the life-affirming title track which begins the album.

With lines like, “Baby, the damage is done/It won’t be long ’til we’re back in the sun”, you could be forgiven for thinking it reflects on the band’s recent woes.

Auerbach says it does, but only up to a point. “It started with the title and we built it from there.

“We tend to shy away from diary-type songs. It gives us ‘the ick’ when it sounds like somebody’s reading from their diary.

“But there’s a lot of truth in the song. It’s us trying to be positive, which maybe wasn’t how we were feeling.

“It was a nice thought to write a positive anthem but still have blood in the eye.”

If The Black Keys’ go-to sound has been the blues, this album is remarkable for its funky, airy and soulful vibe.

Auerbach says: “We were heavily influenced by soul growing up, maybe more than anything, and it really shows.

“With us, it’s all about the feel. When we started out, we didn’t know what the hell we were doing, but we knew when it felt right.”

Another strong touchstone has been hip-hop, which is why Auerbach and Carney are thrilled to have worked with Scott Storch, another dazzling keyboard player, who started out in the Roots and went on to work with Dr Dre, 50 Cent, Beyonce and Nas.

“We are a product of where we were raised,” affirms Auerbach. “We grew up in the golden age of hip- hop. That’s what pop music was for us.

“The first time I heard the Geto Boys was at the middle- school dance and it affected us.

That’s the s**t on those blues records I love so much. You hear Son House grunting when he’s playing slide guitar

Auerbach

“But then my mom’s family played bluegrass — I would listen to my uncles sing. And when The Stanley Brothers sing, it’s white soul music. I love it all.”

As for Storch, Auerbach continues: “We’ve obsessed over videos of him since we were in high school. Seeing him play all the parts of his hits makes our jaws hit the floor.

‘You can hear Scott physically grunting’

“The idea of getting him in the studio seemed crazy because he seemed like a larger-than-life figure.”

Auerbach was mesmerised by Storch when he arrived at Easy Eye Sound.

He says: “Scott’s a real player, an absolute musical savant. As a hip-hop producer, he tends to spend 99.9 per cent of the time in the control room.

“But we have all these acoustic pianos, harpsichords and analogue synthesisers. He was in heaven, and so were we watching him go from keyboard to keyboard.

“On Babygirl, he’s on an acoustic piano with microphones and you can hear him physically grunting in time with his playing. That’s got to be a first for Scott Storch on record.

“That’s the s**t on those blues records I love so much. You hear Son House grunting when he’s playing slide guitar.”

The No Rain, No Flowers album is loaded with hook-laden songs — the exhilarating rocker Man On A Mission, the psychedelic Southern rock swirl of A Little Too High.

One explanation for their eclectic approach is The Black Keys’ regular Record Hang in Nashville, which involves Auerbach and Carney hosting all-vinyl DJ dance parties.

For these, they scour online marketplaces and record shops for obscure but revelatory old 45s.

Carney explains: “We end up exposing ourselves to thousands of songs that somehow we’ve never heard.

“It’s really cool to be so deep into our career and uncovering all this incredible music. It’s totally reinvigorating — particularly when one of us finds a record that the other hasn’t heard and it’s a banger.” So check out Carney’s discovery Nobody Loves Me But My Mama by Johnny Holiday, which he describes as “f*ing insane — psychobilly fuzz rock”.

Then there’s Auerbach’s fave, Yeah Yeah by Blackrock, “a rare 45 instrumental which rearranged our minds. It still hits like crazy”.

We just fell right into it, started playing it and luckily we were recording

Auerbach

With The Black Keys, you always get a sense of passion for their craft, and for other people’s.

Auerbach says: “Pat and I were talking about this earlier — music can hypnotise you. You can use it for good or for evil. It’s a very powerful tool.”

And Carney: “It’s my biggest passion and it has been since I was 11.

‘Sensitive about what we listen to’

“I also think about the delicate balance you need when you do it for a living. You’re taking the thing you love the most but you never want to ruin it for yourself.

“Dan and I are very sensitive about what we listen to. We were at a music festival in a spot in between seven stages. It sounded horrible. I said, ‘This is the kind of thing that could make me hate music’.”

Finally, we talk about another of their own songs, the sublime, festival-primed anthem Neon Moon, which closes No Rain, No Flowers.

Written with Daniel Tashian, Auerbach modestly calls it a “first-take jam” but that doesn’t really do it justice.

“I think it just started with the ‘neon moon’ lyric,” he says. “We just fell right into it, started playing it and luckily we were recording.”

As the song gets into its stride, he sings: “Don’t let yourself get down too long.”

It’s a line that The Black Keys have taken to heart.

THE BLACK KEYS

No Rain, No Flowers

★★★★☆

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VIOLENT abusers are to be made to stay inside “restriction zones” for the first time under new laws. 

They must remain in certain areas, monitored by GPS tags, with potential jail time for a breach. 

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Current laws ban thugs from an area — normally around a victim’s home. 

Campaigners say that restricts victims’ freedoms, as they feel safe only when they stay in their exclusion zones — and not when elsewhere. 

Probation services will enlist victims to draw up a list of locations offenders are allowed to visit. 

The Ministry of Justice move came after lobbying from campaigners. It may be introduced as part of the Sentencing Bill going through Parliament. 

Victims’ minister Alex Davies-Jones said it “will strengthen safeguards”. 

Announcing the change, Minister for Victims and Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls Alex Davies-Jones said: “Through our Plan for Change, we’re putting victims first. 

“This move will strengthen safeguards for victims.

“I’ve heard firsthand how this innovative approach will give them the peace of mind they deserve and rebuild their lives without fear.”

Diana Parkes CBE and Hetti Barkworth-Nanton CBE, who are co-founders of the Joanna Simpson Foundation, said: “For far too long, victims have had to reshape their lives to avoid their offenders.

“Exclusion zones have made victims feel trapped as though they are the ones serving a sentence, with the victim carrying the weight of someone else’s crime. 

“This announcement from the Ministry of Justice is the much-needed change that has long been called for and is a powerful step forward.

“By placing restrictions on offenders instead, this will now give survivors the freedom they deserve to live, move and heal without fear. “

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THREE in four Brits want all foreign criminals deported, a poll shows.

Two-thirds back building mega-jails on remote Scottish islands to deal with prison overcrowding.

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Nine in ten would rather new prisons be built than see softer sentences.

And 77 per cent want courts open longer to deal with the backlog of cases.

The same number back building temporary “Nightingale-style” prisons.

Julian Gallie, from Merlin Strategy — who carried out polling for campaign group Crush Crime — said: ““There is overwhelming public support for a tougher stance on crime.

“There is a desire for the government to deal with a justice system the country do not think is working.

“Options including nightingale prisons and even deporting all foreign criminals gain overwhelming support.”

Reform MP Sarah Pochin said: “It’s no surprise the public support the need for urgent action to fix the crisis in our prison system.”

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FRANKIE Bridge has raised eyebrows after saying “you’re dead to me” in a scathing post after appearing to ‘snub’ former bandmate and friend Rochelle Humes. 

The Loose Women panellist, 36, took to TikTok to share the damning video, showing her sipping on a glass of rosé wine. 

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A caption written over the clip read: “You’re so quiet…

“Thanks, you said something five years ago and I’ve just realised you’re actually dead to me.”

Frankie then added below: “Takes me a while, but once you’re dead you’re dead.” 

The Sun has contacted a representative for Frankie for comment.

Mum-of-two Frankie and presenter Rochelle, 36, shot to fame together at just 12-years-old in pop group S Club Juniors. 

Frankie and Rochelle then joined girlband The Saturdays in 2007, going on to enjoy a string of huge hits including Issues, Ego and What About Us. 

The Saturdays – also made up of Vanessa White, Una Healy and Mollie King – have always insisted their decision to go on indefinite hiatus in 2014 wasn’t down to them falling out. 

Speaking to HELLO! previously, Frankie explained: “We never fell out. We never really officially broke up or anything, so the option [to get back together] has kind of always been there.”

But last month The Sun revealed an apparent ‘feud’ between Frankie and Rochelle, after they gave each other the cold shoulder at Wimbledon. 

As guests of sponsor Evian, the pair were invited to watch the tennis in a suite in the sought-after hydrangea building nearCourtOne.

But while they mingled with other celebrities and guests just yards away from one another – they failed to actually interact with each other.

An insider told The Sun: “It was clear the women were keeping their distance. They sat on opposite sides of the suite and kept to themselves. 

“While Frankie posed for pictures with S Club’s Rachel Stevens, Rochelle took selfies with her husband Marvin and his I’m A Celebrity campmate Sam Thompson.

“It was a shame because having the two girls from The Saturdays together for a mini-reunion was exciting for everyone there.

“Even though they were pleasant to each other when they did brush shoulders, they didn’t spend any extra time together than they had to, in between being amicable while passing each other en route to watch the tennis.”

While Frankie has taken the “never say never” approach to a potential Saturdays return and Una, 43, has admitted several times she’s ready to perform with the girls again, Rochelle previously insisted she “highly doubts” it will happen. 

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FORMER MANCHESTER CITY goalkeeper Eike Immel has been sentenced to two years and two months in prison in relation to 107 cases of fraud.

According to reports from Bild, the majority of the cases centred around the 64-year-old borrowing money and not returning it.

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The total value of the money in question is reported to be £29,775.

Immel also sold tickets to a European Championship game, keeping the money but failing to deliver the tickets.

The German was found guilty in all cases before being sentenced by the district court in Marburg on Thursday.

The former Euros-winning goalkeeper’s defence brought up his financial issues as a reason for his failure to repay the money.

Bild report that a statement given by Immel’s defence attorney read: “Mr. Immel is deeply ashamed of what is being discussed here in the courtroom today.

“He lives hand to mouth. This fact has been publicly known for years.

“[He is] not a professional fraudster, but a failed former footballer.”

Immel declared bankruptcy in 2008, and has since spoken to the media about his money troubles, last year claiming to be living off of benefits.

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The stopper made 43 appearances for Manchester City between 1995-97, but is best remembered for his tenure in the Bundesliga.

He played almost 550 league games between spells at Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart.

His domestic performances earned him 19 international caps with West Germany.

Among these appearances, he won the 1980 European Championship and was part of runner-up campaigns at the 1982 and 1986 World Cups.

The airport in Greece has one of the shortest runways for passenger jets in Europe – but it can accommodate aircraft as large as a Boeing 767-200

For many jet-setters, the lengthy taxi down the airport runway before take-off can feel like an eternity. It often seems as though the plane will never lift off as it trundles along the tarmac before the engines roar into action and it ascends.

However, travellers to a small Greek island may be surprised to learn that it boasts the shortest runway for passenger jets in mainland Europe. The runway at Skiathos measures a mere 5,341 feet, significantly shorter than the norm.

To put it into perspective, London Heathrow’s northern runway stretches approximately 12,801 feet, Manchester’s runway spans 10,948 feet, and Birmingham’s runway is 10,013 feet long, reports the Express. Despite its relatively modest length, the airport can handle aircraft as large as a Boeing 767-200 and welcomes flights from across Europe.

These include routes from various UK airports, with numerous seasonal flights operating to this Aegean island. Due to the island’s rugged terrain, land had to be reclaimed from the sea to facilitate the construction of the airport, which opened its doors to passengers in 1972.

Now, hundreds of thousands of passengers pass through each year, with over 552,000 recorded in 2023 – including more than 192,000 travelling to or from the UK. Its proximity to a public road, coupled with its location and frequency of flights, makes Skiathos Airport a favourite spot for plane enthusiasts who often share snaps of massive aircrafts swooping in low for landing.

Despite having one of the shortest runways in Europe, it doesn’t hold the record for the shortest runway within a European nation. That distinction belongs to Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport on Saba, boasting a mere 1,312 feet long runway and being part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The twist is that Saba is actually an island located in the Caribbean, across the Atlantic.

Europe can become incredibly busy during the peak holiday season and according to a travel expert, one of Italy’s top attractions is among those that have become too overcrowded

Europe’s top holiday spots are becoming unbearably crowded during peak season, warns a travel expert, with Italy’s most popular attractions among the worst offenders. World-renowned destinations like Barcelona have even hiked up their tourist taxes in an attempt to curb visitor numbers.

Research by Holidu reveals that Dubrovnik takes the crown as the world’s most overcrowded tourist hotspot, boasting 30 visitors for every local resident. But which other locations are bursting at the seams come summertime?

Speaking previously to Express.co.uk, Sara Rodriguez, a seasoned traveller and blogger at Madrid Travelling, revealed four places she found overwhelmingly busy.

Positano, Italy

Considered a gem of southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the picturesque landscape in Positano is nothing short of iconic. Colourful buildings are perched on cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean, giving Positano its name as the “vertical village”.

Despite its reputation as one of the most picturesque seaside villages on the coastline, Sara described the atmosphere as far too “hectic”. She elaborated: “While undeniably beautiful with its colourful buildings and seaside views, the narrow streets were packed shoulder to shoulder with other sightseers.”

She added: “The atmosphere felt more hectic than idyllic, and prices were inflated for tourists. I left feeling like I never got to experience the real Positano beyond the chaotic surface.”

Paris, France

The ‘City of Love’ is one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, but Sara is just one of many visitors who are left less than impressed by the iconic French city.

She detailed: “The congested boulevards of Paris and the never-ending lineups at attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre strained my patience. I didn’t really enjoy the atmosphere as much as I was waiting to take shots.”

TripAdvisor reviewers are in agreement, with one Louvre Museum visitor stating: “The art is crazy, but the queues are insane. Two hours to access the museum and then you can barely walk due to the quantity of tourists. They should regulate this.”

Excessive tourism has been widespread this year, with the Olympics and Paralympics taking place in the city. This occurs despite Paris City Hall’s decision to triple the tourist tax by 200 per cent for 2024.

The move was implemented to assist Île-de-France Mobilités, which oversees public transport, including the metro and bus services, in managing the increased passenger numbers anticipated for the international sporting spectacle.

Mykonos, Greece

The busy tourist period in Mykonos is generally from Greek Easter (April) to the end of October, with peak season from mid-July to late August. During this time, the island attracts visitors of all ages.

Holidaymakers fork out top prices for accommodation on the picturesque Greek isle, which costs considerably more than neighbouring spots such as Syros. However, the masses prove disappointing, according to Sara.

She explained: “When I finally went to the Greek island, I thought it would be a tranquil haven. Even while it was breathtakingly gorgeous, I felt that partygoers and inebriated vacationers overshadowed it. The restaurants were expensive and the beaches were noisy.”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is renowned for its lively culture, fascinating heritage and stunning waterways, with the 17th-century canal network having developed into one of the most distinctive cityscapes globally. That said, its hordes of visitors make it incredibly busy considering the city is only an eighth of the size of London.

In addition to overnight stays, Amsterdam welcomed 15.1 million day visitors last year, with approximately 60 percent of them coming from within the Netherlands, according to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

Sara’s own experience was marred by congested streets, claiming: “The city centre was overrun with rowdy bachelor parties riding bikes through crowded streets. The museums were packed, and reservations at restaurants were impossible to get.”

A long-wondered game show secret has been revealed by a TV insider, ending much speculation.

Ever wondered how some game show contestants win the jackpot and others who deserve it more don’t? Well, this could be the reason why.

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The TV Insider

Gameshow host Richard Osman has finally answered the question about how some shows stop contestants from winning the top prize.

The Pointless and House of Games star revealed that certain questions are given to those taking part in the programme in a bid to keep cash prizes to a minimum.

On his podcast which hosts alongside Marina Hyde, The Rest is Entertainment, the pair often reveal the secret tricks used by the industry to ensure the success of certain shows and films.

Most day-time and evening gameshows have huge cash prizes, which can sometimes reach six or seven figures.

But most of the time, many contestants, despite showing great promise, only end up with a fraction of the maximum amount.

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The secret trick

The 54-year-old said: “The questions wouldn’t be weighted particularly in that way,” he said. He went on to add: “But lots of formats have ways of ensuring there isn’t a payout.”

He added: “So, you’ll do a final round where you could win or you couldn’t win the jackpot.”

He later went on to explain that the cash prize at the end of each round depends on an algorithm for players.

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Richard said: “You always have an algorithm. Daytime budgets are very small, but in your budget will be a line item for prize money.

“So, when we used to make Deal or No Deal, for example ― and it’s a good example, because it’s all about money ― you’ve got that £250,000 box all the way down to the 1p box.”

Simon Cowell’s million-dollar failure

He also explained that there have been many game show failures.

Simon Cowell once launched a game show in the USA

Wanna Bet? was hosted by tele rating’s safe pair of hands, Ant and Dec, and was based on the idea of the gambling game Red or Black.

However, Osman revealed that in the first four episodes in a row, the contestants ended up bagging the total pot – a jaw-dropping $1 million.

The car crash of a show therefore, only lasted six episodes before it was cancelled, becoming one of Ant and Dec’s rare failures.

He then compared this to his former show Pointless, which offers £16,500 per day.

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It means that if one team walks out with the top prize fund, others will suffer in the following games.

Having hosted hundreds of episodes of Pointless since it aired in 2009, Osman knows a thing or two having tv formats.

Osman was also the brains behind some of our favourite entertainment shows such as 8 out of 10 Cats, Have You Been Watching, Only Connect, Total Wipeout, Prize Island, and 10 O’Clock Live.

Alnwick Gardens in Northumberland is a popular spot among those who know about it but I fear there are not enough have discovered this gem in the north of England.

Alnwick Gardens, a hidden treasure in Northumberland, is a favourite among those who’ve had the pleasure of discovering it, but there are many more who are yet to stumble upon this northern gem.

During a road trip with friends, Alycia McNamara of the Express chanced upon this enchanting spot and it’s been on her mind ever since. They were there at the peak of summer when the gardens were awash with a sea of pink, white and red roses, all the more stunning under clear blue skies. It felt less like an English garden and more akin to the romantic settings of Romeo and Juliet, reminiscent of Italian landscapes, she said.

“The garden is perfectly kept which, for such a large space, is very impressive,” she said. “There are events all year round which make this an experience much more than just leaves, trees and flowers and it also means there’s something for everyone who visits. You can view upcoming events on Alnwick Garden’s website but some which stood out to me are the summer music nights and the winter lights shows which are on every year.

“It is also home to the UK’s deadliest garden which holds more than 100 toxic, intoxicating, and narcotic plants. The boundaries of the Poison Garden are kept behind black iron gates and only open on guided tours. The highlight for me was most certainly the rose gardens, which feature 300 shrub roses and can be booked for weddings. The area was created by David Austin roses and was unveiled at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2001.”

Adult tickets are £192.0 on the day and up to four children can enter for free.

While she didn’t stay in Alnwick itself, there are numerous nearby attractions worth exploring. Alnwick Castle, a favourite among history buffs and Harry Potter enthusiasts (it served as Hogwarts in the first two films), is one such spot.

Additionally, just a 25-minute drive away lies Bamburgh beach, recently crowned Britain’s top coastal destination.

TUI passengers can travel with four luggage items for free this summer, but there are some rules to be aware of if you’re jetting off abroad with a baby or infant

TUI passengers are in for a treat this summer as they can bring four pieces of luggage onboard flights without any additional charges.

Every TUI traveller aged two and above is permitted to carry one piece of hand luggage on flights free of charge, provided it doesn’t exceed 10kg and its dimensions don’t exceed 55x40x20cm. In addition, passengers can also bring one small personal item onboard, such as a backpack, laptop bag or a handbag.

This must be compact enough to fit under the seat in front and not exceed 40x30x20cm. It comes after Ryanair passengers band together as staff charge woman £75 luggage fee.

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For those who’ve booked a package holiday with TUI, a checked-in luggage allowance of at least 20kg per person is included. However, for flight-only bookings, checked-in luggage comes with an extra fee.

But there’s good news for families travelling with infants – TUI is allowing up to two additional items of luggage on flights free of charge, reports the Express.

TUI permits passengers to check in a collapsible pushchair and a car seat into the hold at no extra cost on both package holidays and flight-only bookings. Although passengers do have the option of bringing pushchairs onboard, provided it doesn’t exceed 50x40x20cm and weighs no more than 10kg. However, in this case, it will count as your large piece of hand luggage.

Infants under the age of two don’t get a hand luggage allowance on TUI flights, so if you have a baby changing bag that you need to take with you, this will be counted as part of your 10kg free allowance.

TUI states: “If you’re flying on a TUI flight (package or flight only), you can check in pushchairs and/or car seats into the hold for free. You can also bring your pushchair with you onboard, as long as it weighs less than 10kg, is no bigger than 55x40x20cm and has a hand luggage label provided during check-in.

“This’ll count as your larger piece of hand luggage for an adult on the booking, meaning you can have this and one smaller piece of hand luggage that fits under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions 40x30x20cm.

“There’s the option to use your pushchair at the airport and hand it to a member of staff at the gate before you board, but please make our ground staff aware when you check in as you’ll need a label for this too.

“Just so you know, pushchairs and car seats will be returned on the luggage belt when you arrive, and there’s occasionally a long walk between the aircraft and the luggage reclaim area. Any pushchairs need to be completely collapsible. Please note, if you’re travelling with an infant under 2, they don’t have a hand luggage allowance.”

Every TUI aircraft features baby changing facilities situated within the loos, though travellers are encouraged to consult the cabin crew beforehand since amenities can differ based on the aircraft type. Children under two years old also don’t receive meals during flights, meaning passengers must pack their own grub, although the carrier can warm baby milk bottles while airborne.

READ MORE: Ryanair-approved cabin case to rival Antler gets slashed by 30% in summer sale

One village and its neighbouring town were named as the cheapest seaside destination in England by Rightmove, with two-bedroom terraced houses available for as little as £5K

Residents of a seaside village claim their seaside community is suffering as family homes lie empty and dozens more are set to be demolished.

Rightmove named Horden and neighbouring Peterlee the cheapest seaside destinations in England, with two-bedroom terraced houses available for as little as £5K. According to the website, the average asking price in Peterlee and Horden is just over £122K, less than half the average national house price.

Even though demand for seaside properties has increased by eight per cent compared to last year, locals say no one wants to live in the area, which struggles from a lack of investment, drug gangs and anti-social behaviour plaguing the small coastal community. It comes after reports of a small fishing village with some of the UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.

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“It’s the armpit of England”, one resident said on a local Facebook group post about Horden. Locals previously raised concerns over criminals who have been using the houses in Horden to grow and deal drugs, reports the Express.

One man was jailed for over three years in April after he was found hiding in a cannabis farm at a disused shop in Blackhills Road. Two years ago, feuding rival gang members clashed in Horden’s Fifth Street, where a stolen Transit van smashed into shop fronts and shots were fired before a high-speed chase through the village. Seven men were jailed for a combined 94 years after pleading guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.

Residents have voiced their concerns, claiming that Durham County Council is ignoring their housing issues. The council reportedly wants to buy and demolish homes on the Numbered Streets in Horden to make way for new builds, despite some locals having resided there all their lives.

The Numbered Streets, a well-known part of the village encompassing First Street through to 13th Street, were initially constructed in the early 1900s to accommodate the large community of coal mining families in the vicinity. Numerous family-friendly properties now stand vacant, with current listings priced significantly below £40K.

Local campaigner and published author Pip Fallow expressed his views: “Most of Europe has a shortage of houses. We’ve actually got the opposite, as no one is living there, it’s boarded up.” He remains sceptical that new housing developments will benefit Peterlee and its neighbouring villages.

“The proof’s in the pudding, there are houses there already and no one wants to live in them. There’s nothing to offer. You need to bring in new industry,” he further commented.

Another local, Liz MacPhee, described Horden as “quite a run-down area, lots of lovely houses, just boarded up” but since moving to the village, she’s found herself part of “a really strong community”. She relocated from the South of France in search of an affordable coastal home.

However, she alleges that her friends are now in danger of being evicted by the council, which is only offering them the average auction value for their properties. “We’re prepared to fight… all [the council] want is shiny new houses,” she added.

Durham County Council insists that the development, along with additional projects in the area around Peterlee, will enhance walking and cycling routes to Peterlee centre, its train station and the Durham Heritage Coast. Yet, residents argue that the council should be focusing on refurbishing the existing homes instead.

“The council isn’t listening to us,” Liz stated. “We want them refurbed as they are absolutely beautiful houses. “The council and the Government treated the miners really badly,” she added. “And now they’re coming back a second time to get their offspring.”

Horden and its surrounding areas have seen several new developments over the past few years, including a £10.55M train line between Newcastle and Middlesbrough that opened in June 2020. In July, it was announced that Believe Housing had proposed a new development in neighbouring Peterlee for 70 homes on disused land.

“It’s a beautiful part of the world”, Liz said. “But people here are so run down and have been treated so negatively in the past they feel it’s just something that’s just going to happen.”

When approached for comment by the Express, Michael Kelleher, head of planning and housing at Durham County Council, said: “The Horden Masterplan has been subject to extensive consultation with residents and has received strong support. The aim is to regenerate the village and improve life for local people by tackling issues such as the high number of empty homes in the Numbered Streets, supporting those with housing needs and enhancing community facilities.

“The acquisition of properties in Third and Fifth Street will pave the way for new council housing that is truly affordable, alongside the provision of private housing.

“We understand this is an unsettling time, and we are working closely with owners and landlords to negotiate the purchase of their properties and identify the housing needs of local people.

“Owners are not being offered auction prices. We have appointed an independent firm to undertake property valuations in line with the RICS Red Book Valuation approach, which is widely recognised as a standard approach to valuation. Tpas, a tenant engagement specialist, has also been appointed to provide residents with additional advice and support.”

MANCHESTER UNITED are so desperate for a new midfielder that one fan has launched a GoFundMe to raise money to sign Carlos Baleba.

United have reportedly made contact with Brighton to explore a potential deal for Baleba though it will prove difficult.

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Brighton could potentially ask for as much as £100m for Baleba, who still has three years remaining on his contract.

Other Cameroonian reports have suggested Amex chiefs want £87m on the table to even consider opening talks over Baleba.

The 21-year-old enjoyed an impressive season for the Seagulls, featuring 34 times in the Premier League and scoring three goals for Fabian Hurzeler‘s side.

According to The Athletic, the Red Devils have expressed their interest in the central midfielder.

And, while United may be struggling for money as they flirt with PSR amid the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo for £133m combined, one fan has taken things into his own hands to try and raise some cash.

Supporter Ian M organised the fundraiser on Wednesday night, titled Baleba to ‘Man Utd fund’.

Alongside a picture of Baleba in a Brighton shirt, the description reads: “We need this to happen we need this to happen we need this to happen we need this to happen.”

The post set an ambitious target of raising 120million.

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At the time of writing, there has been one £5 donation from an anonymous user.

United will need all the help they can get ahead of the pending £74million arrival RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.

Although a No9 is a clear must, many fans think new midfielder is an even bigger priority.

United are on the hunt for a dynamic midfielder to go in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 pivot after unconvincing displays by Manuel Ugarte in pre-season, with his display against Everton facing scrutiny.

Baleba was one of the Premier League’s top ranked midfielders last season for tackles, blocks, interceptions and recoveries, while his progressive carries and forward passing numbers were also impressive.

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His stock is rising fast, and he’s already been linked with Liverpool and Manchester City.

The Brighton star’s journey is nothing short of remarkable so far. Just three years ago, he was still in Cameroon, uncertain about his future. 

When he finally got his breakthrough move to Lille, tragedy struck, he lost his mother, he says it was sudden and quick. It’s a pain that still drives him.

Baleba previously told SunSport: “It was very difficult for me because I didn’t see my mum. I wanted her next to me, but when I signed for Brighton, she wasn’t here.

“That’s why the first season was really hard. I thought about her a lot. But I vowed that I would be the best version of myself and go as far as I can in my career.”

Brighton have made an incredible profit off the traditional ‘Big Six’ in recent years.

A switch to United would see Baleba follow in the footsteps of midfield stars like Alexis Mac Allister, Yves Bissouma, and Moises Caicedo – who all left the Amex for Prem giants.