NASDAQ FIRST NORTH, COPENHAGEN TICKER: HRC ISIN: GB00BZ3CDY20
31 July 2025
AUDITED ANNUAL RESULTS TO 31 MARCH 2025
The Board of Directors of HRC World Plc (the “Company”), has approved and subsequently are pleased to present its audited financial results for the financial year ended 31 March 2025. The audited financial statements are appended to this announcement and is also available at the Company’s website http://www.hrcplc.co.uk
The Group reported revenue of US$818,000 for the year ending 31 March 2025, reflecting a much increased income compared to the previous year’s revenue of US$141,000. The financial year ended 31 March 2025 marked a significant improvement in the Group’s performance, reflecting early outcomes of its strategic realignment. The Group also narrowed its pre-tax loss to US$46,000, from US$220,000 in the prior year, indicating improved operational cost control despite ongoing investment in future growth sectors. These results underscore the Group’s steady progress in repositioning toward highpotential, technology-driven business segments.
The Company remains optimistic about its strategic direction and future prospects and continued to advance its strategic transformation toward digital infrastructure and sustainable energy solutions. While restaurant management services remained part of our operations during the transition period, our focus has increasingly shifted to the development and future commercialisation of our data centre and IT infrastructure capabilities. These efforts reflect our commitment to building a future-ready business model centred on technology-driven services.
As announced previously, the Directors are not proposing the payment of a dividend.
THE DIRECTORS OF HRC WORLD PLC ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT
About HRC World Plc HRC World Plc is an England & Wales incorporated public company with registration number 10829936 and is quoted on Nasdaq First North Growth Market (Copenhagen). HRC World provides café management services for developing tourist-based and event-based revenues in member restaurants as well as implementation of HRC Music initiatives.
Further information may be found at the Company’s website: www.hrcplc.co.uk
Company contact details HRC World Plc +603 7786 0500 info@hrcplc.co.uk
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Press release
UK outshines global competitors as Arbitration Act comes into effect
Businesses will benefit from faster and cheaper dispute resolution as major reforms to arbitration law come into effect today.
New law comes into force today to strengthen UK’s world-leading status in arbitration
Businesses can now settle disputes faster and at less cost
Part of Government’s Plan for Change to drive new business straight into £42.6 billion legal sector
The modernisation of the Arbitration Act is set to boost the UK economy by millions while creating new employment opportunities within the legal sector.
The new law will reinforce Britain’s position as the world’s number one destination for arbitration – building on London’s status as the globally preferred location for these services over competitors like Singapore, Hong Kong and Paris.
This will attract further investment to the UK’s £42.6 billion legal services economy and create highly-skilled jobs, supporting the sector’s existing 384,000 workforce.
Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman KC MP, said:
Businesses around the world already look to the UK as the gold standard in arbitration, and this new law cements our place as the global jurisdiction of choice – competing globally and keeping British companies on top.
As part of our Plan for Change, we will continue to drive new business straight into the UK to boost jobs and support economic growth.
As the largest legal services market in Europe, international arbitration represents a major growth sector for the UK economy. England and Wales handle at least 5,000 domestic and international arbitrations annually, contributing £2.5 billion in fees alone.
From today, arbitrators have the power to dismiss weak cases quickly, preventing businesses from wasting time and money on disputes with no chance of success.
The reforms also require arbitrators to declare any potential conflicts of interest upfront, ensuring fairer outcomes for businesses.
Courts have gained new powers to better support the arbitration process, while simplified procedures will cut delays and costs for all parties involved.
The Arbitration Act received Royal Assent in February and has now been fully implemented.
Cristen Bauer, Director of External Affairs, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
As the leading professional body globally for dispute resolvers, we are delighted to see the Arbitration Act 2025 come into force. We commend the Government’s commitment to modernise the Arbitration Act and to engage in a collaborative reform process with stakeholders from across the dispute resolution ecosystem.
Ciarb is proud to have contributed to this important reform and stands ready to support the global arbitration community in harnessing the full potential of this new framework. This milestone not only strengthens arbitration in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but also reinforces global efforts to uphold high standards of fairness, efficiency, and integrity across the profession.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Free speech rules to protect academic freedom come into force
New legal duties on universities and colleges come into force, as government delivers Plan for Change to restore integrity of higher education.
Students, academics and external speakers at universities in England will have their freedom of speech protected by robust new laws coming into force today (Friday 1 August).
Under the strengthened rules introduced by this government, universities must actively promote academic freedom, ensuring campuses are places where robust discussion can take place without fear of censorship of students, staff or external speakers expressing lawful opinions.
Universities will also be banned from using non-disclosure agreements to silence victims of campus misconduct, protecting vulnerable individuals who may have faced harassment, abuse or sexual assault.
If lawful free speech is silenced the Office for Students (OfS) can investigate, and can take action if universities are found to have failed to protect free speech rights.
The OfS’ director for free speech and academic freedom has warned institutions that flout the new rules could face record penalties, after the University of Sussex was given a landmark £585,000 fine for its failure to uphold free speech in March. Arif Ahmed said future fines could be higher.
These robust protections deliver on the government’s Plan for Change by restoring the integrity of our universities as rigorous centres of intellectual debate, recognising them as a key driver for delivering growth and opportunity across the country.
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said:
Academic freedom is non-negotiable in our world-leading institutions, and we will not tolerate the silencing of academics or students who voice legitimate views.
These strengthened protections make this explicitly clear in law, and the record fine already handed down by the OfS has put universities on notice that they must comply or face the consequences.
Through our Plan for Change we are restoring our world class universities as engines of growth, opportunity and innovation, and fostering a culture of free enquiry and academic freedom is at the heart of that.
In future a new OfS complaints scheme will ensure academics, external speakers and staff can trigger investigations that could lead to fines if their free speech is not protected. Students will have their free speech complaints considered through the Office of the Independent Adjudicator.
The legislation will also ensure student unions are subject to new rules, by holding universities accountable for their activities.
The Education Secretary has previously announced that elements of the Act that could have saddled universities with disproportionate legal costs will be removed, as they would have rendered the rules unworkable.
Jewish community organisations had also raised fears the tort might lead some providers to unduly prioritise speech which is hateful or degrading over the interests of those who are at risk of being harassed and intimidated.
Overseas transparency measures contained in the Act will remain under review while the government assesses the impact of the recently-introduced Foreign Influence Registration Scheme.
The Office for Students already has powers to require information in response to concerns about free speech or academic freedom, including issues related to suspected foreign interference and funding.
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
The ACCC is warning battery and solar suppliers and electricity retailers their sales practices must meet scrutiny as demand for home batteries and solar systems jumps due to subsidy schemes and the large savings that households on solar and battery plans are experiencing.
The ACCC’s latest Electricity Inquiry Report examines emerging markets for new electricity services, particularly those supported by solar and battery systems, and compares the electricity bills of solar and battery customers with the bills of regular customers who draw only from the grid.
The report found that the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program is making batteries more affordable and providing more households an opportunity to lower their electricity bills. To ensure that consumers receive the full benefit of the Program, the ACCC is warning that retailers and installers must act in the consumer’s interest.
“As more Australian households switch to battery and solar plans, it’s important that the deals on offer are fair, accurate and easy to understand,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.
“The ACCC will be watching carefully and actively monitoring consumer complaints. We will hold solar and battery installers, retailers and suppliers accountable to ensure they comply with Australia’s consumer laws.”
“Consumers looking to take advantage of the new subsidies for solar home batteries to lower their energy bills, should take their time and not feel pressured to rush in straight away,” Ms Brakey said.
The report emphasises the complexity of investing in a solar and home battery system and the need for consumers to understand whether the benefits they receive outweigh the costs, particularly when choosing system sizes.
The report supports calls for additional consumer protections to safeguard consumers purchasing systems and signing up to new energy services like virtual power plants. It also supports calls for an overarching consumer duty that requires energy companies to act in the interests of consumers.
“We believe additional consumer protections are needed as more Australians participate in markets for new and emerging energy services,” Ms Brakey said.
“We advise consumers to read the Australian Government’s Solar Consumer Guide, compare a number of quotes from different providers, and ask for personalised information from solar and battery sellers about the appropriate size for their system and the projected cost savings.”
Solar and battery customers see biggest bill savings
Australian households with rooftop solar and a home battery have electricity bills that are on average 40 per cent less than customers whose electricity comes entirely from the grid (regular users), the report found.
The report presents new analysis of the 2023 to 2024 billing outcomes of customers that have adopted different renewable energy solutions and compares them to regular users.
The median annual residential electricity bill for regular users, without rebates, in the National Electricity Market in 2023 to 2024 was $1,565. The median household with rooftop solar paid about 18 per cent less ($1,279 per year), while a household with solar and a home battery paid about 40 per cent less ($936).
Residential customers who are connected to a virtual power plant, which is an energy sharing network of solar and batteries, paid about 63 per cent less ($580) than the median household.
“Home solar and batteries continue to be a compelling option for Australians who can afford the upfront cost, with those who are connected to a virtual power plant saving up to almost $1000 off their annual bill,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.
Median bills paid by regular, solar, battery and virtual power plant customers, by region, quarter 3 of 2023 to quarter 3 of 2024.
Government rebates bring down power bills by 21 per cent
The report also shows that government rebates resulted in the median quarterly household power bill dropping by 21 per cent between the third quarter 2023 and third quarter 2024.
Without rebates, the median quarterly bill would have instead risen by 4 per cent.
“The sharpest decline across the National Electricity Market was in South East Queensland, where rebates exceeded the median bill amount,” Ms Brakey said.
Background
The National Electricity Market is comprised of South East Queensland, New South Wales (including the ACT), Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. Western Australia and the Northern Territory are not connected to the National Electricity Market.
To inform this report, we collected billing data from 8 retailers, which cover 97 per cent of residential customers and 90 per cent of small business customers in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and South East Queensland. We obtained additional data for customers on virtual power plant services, electric vehicle tariffs and behavioural demand response plans.
In 2018, the Australian Government directed the ACCC to hold an inquiry into the prices, profits and margins in relation to the supply of electricity in the National Electricity Market (which covers NSW, Victoria, South East Queensland and South Australia). On 23 March 2025, the Australian Government announced a 12-month extension to the inquiry.
This is the 13th time the ACCC has reported as part of this inquiry.
A man has been arrested after child exploitation material was located at his home today.
On Friday 1 August, investigators from the South Australian JACET, a joint taskforce between South Australia Police and Australian Federal Police, attended a northeast suburbs home as a result of an online conversation between the accused and a covert online police officer.
The house was searched and a mobile phone, computer hard drives and a computer were seized.
Child exploitation material was located on the devices by Digital Evidence Section specialists and further examinations will continue.
Also during the search, investigators located three gel blasters.
A 38-year-old man from the northeastern suburbs was arrested and charged with disseminating child exploitation material, possessing child exploitation material and three counts of possessing a firearm without a licence.
He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court later today.
“This operation is a stark reminder of the realities of child sexual exploitation and the proliferation of child sexual abuse material on the internet, and the need for proactive measures to address these crimes against our children,” said Chief Inspector George Fenwick Manager, of the Special Crimes Investigation Section.
“Without my officers being online and in these chat forums, we may never have identified this man or his offending.”
Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.
Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley.
Just before 1.15pm on Friday 1 August, police were called to the intersection of Victor Harbor Road near Hindmarsh Tiers Road after reports of a two-car crash.
Northbound traffic on Victor Harbor Road is being diverted at Hindmarsh Tiers Road and southbound traffic is diverted at Crows Nest Road.
Please note, the South Australia Police media releases feature on this site for four weeks following publication. If you are searching for an older media release or news item please contact the SAPOL Media Section, telephone (08) 7322 3848 or email sapol.mediasection@police.sa.gov.au
01 Aug 2025 4:37pm
Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Hindmarsh Valley.
Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke, the Officer in Charge of Major Crime provided an update to the media in relation to human remains being located in scrubland near Port Lincoln, believed to be that of Julian Storey.
South Australia Police (SAPOL) has partnered with Dementia Support Australia (DSA) to create a police-only 24-hour helpline to better support people living with dementia.
With the Premiership season kicking off this weekend, football fans are being reminded that a restricted parking zone will be in operation around Dens and Tannadice parks on matchdays.
Dundee FC will play Hibernian on Sunday (Aug 3), and the council is advising supporters that parking attendants will issue penalty charge notices to vehicles parked illegally in the zone which do not have an exemption.
The match day scheme covers an area bounded by Dens Road, Caird Avenue, Clepington Road, Court Street North and Arklay Street and includes around 1400 properties.
An order banning parking by non-residents is in effect on match days, but residents and blue badge holders will still be able to use the streets.
Under the scheme parking attendants have “an allow-list” to identify vehicles that are permitted to be within the area when matches are being played.
Details on how residents can apply for a permit can be foundhere
City council depute convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Cllr Siobhan Tolland said: “This scheme was brought in two years ago and followed consultation with local residents.
“The city’s football grounds are uniquely situated closely together in a residential area and we are aware of the problems that were caused by football parking for those living near the grounds.
“I would ask football fans to pay attention to the road signage which informs them they are entering a restricted parking zone and the times when it is in effect.”
Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Branch and Port Lincoln Police, supported by SES personnel and a cadaver dog, have finished a detailed search of the Parnkalla Trail area in connection with the murder of Julian Story.
A number of items were located during the search. All recovered evidence will be forwarded to Forensic Science SA for detailed scientific examination over the coming days.
Police extend their gratitude to the many members of the Port Lincoln community who have come forward with information to aid this investigation.
At this stage, there are no further searches planned, and investigators will now await the results of the forensic analysis.
Chancellor backs jobs boost in Scottish defence and energy sectors
Chancellor Rachel Reeves will outline how the Spending Review will give Scotland a jobs boost, as she visits RAF Lossiemouth and St Fergus Gas Plant today (1 August).
18,000 North Sea jobs can be safeguarded through a £200 million investment in the Aberdeen Acorn energy project whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.
Increase in defence spending will see more jobs added to the 26,100 skilled Scottish jobs already supported by UK Government defence investment, and three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft will see even more jobs created by Boeing at RAF Lossiemouth.
Defence and clean energy commitments, part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, will provide jobs and build thriving communities from Aberdeen to the Clyde.
The UK Government is investing in defence and clean energy to protect existing jobs and create thousands more, while keep the UK secure. Increasing defence spending to 2.6%, could lead to around 0.3% higher GDP in the long run, equivalent to around £11 billion of GDP in today’s money, according to government estimates.
RAF Lossiemouth shows how investment in defence delivers for ordinary families. The Moray base has undergone a huge transformation in recent years and military personnel and civilian workers now work together keep our fighter jets and sub-hunting aircraft in the air. The addition of three new E-7 Wedgetail aircraft to the RAF’s fleet will see even more jobs created by Boeing at the base, where the Chancellor will meet with some of the over 200 Boeing teammates who work alongside RAF personnel.
Chancellor, Rachel Reeves said:
We’re seizing the huge potential and opportunities that Scotland has on offer. Whether it’s in defence to keep the UK safe, or clean energy to power all corners of the country, this government is backing Scotland with billions of pounds of investment to grow the economy and create jobs.
Scottish Secretary, Ian Murray said:
The UK Government is investing in defence to ensure Britain’s security and deter our adversaries and drive economic growth.
This investment is a massive jobs opportunity for Scotland – this ‘defence dividend’ is good news for Scotland, where it will help create skilled jobs, drive economic growth and help tackle the critical skills gaps facing the country in sectors such as nuclear, construction, maritime and project management.
The Spending Review also saw investments that will make Scotland the home of the UK’s clean energy revolution. While Acorn is still subject to final investment decision, this £200 million is just the beginning to this government’s commitment to investing in Scotland and has the potential to safeguard 18,000 North Sea jobs whilst creating 15,000 new ones in Scotland’s clean energy transformation.
Great British Energy will also be headquartered in Aberdeen, to drive clean power generation across the UK. Boosting homegrown energy will also make the UK more secure.
The Chancellor’s visit comes as defence spending rises to 2.6% of GDP and figures from 23/24 reveal that MOD spend maintains 26,100 skilled jobs across Scotland. The Spending Review also committed £250 million to secure the future of HMNB Clyde – the first stage of a multi-decade, multi-billion renewal project and all three Clyde shipyards are currently fulfilling contracts for the Royal Navy.
Further information:
The Spending Review delivered a record settlement for Scottish public services, with the Scottish Government’s largest settlement, in real terms, since devolution in 1998. Scottish Government’s settlement is growing in real terms between 2024-25 and 2028-29. This translates into an average of £50.9 billion per year between 2026-27 and 2028-29.
Maria Laine, President United Kingdom, Ireland & Nordic region, Boeing, said:
Boeing has a long-standing presence in Scotland including at RAF Lossiemouth, the home to the UK’s P-8 Poseidon fleet and where the E-7 Wedgetail will be based when it enters service. As a key partner of the UK Armed Forces, Boeing welcomes the defence spending increase and has seen first-hand how defence infrastructure investments, such as the £100 million Atlantic Building and new E-7 facilities at RAF Lossiemouth, can deliver for local jobs, suppliers and UK national security.
Michelle Ferguson, Director, CBI Scotland, said:
Scotland’s energy and defence sectors are vital to our economy, driving investment and supporting thousands of skilled jobs. The Chancellor’s announcement of £200 million for the Acorn energy project is very encouraging, but businesses are eager for final approval to unlock its full potential and secure North Sea jobs. Increased defence spending will further boost Scotland’s skilled workforce and create growth opportunities across key supply-chain. Close collaboration between the Scottish and UK governments will be essential to fully realise these benefits, driving forward national security and Scotland’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.
Mark Sommerfeld, UK Director of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, said:
The Chancellor’s visit to Acorn further highlights the importance of CCUS in securing the future of our foundational industries and delivering a secure low carbon power system – both in Scotland and across the UK. The Government’s commitment to CCUS means that thousands of skilled jobs will be protected, with thousands more created across our industrial heartlands – delivering economic growth and clean power.
To maintain global leadership in CCUS and realise the full benefits for our industrial communities, we need to see clear deployment pathways for both Acorn and Viking CCS, as well as other projects developing at pace across the UK. By doing so, the Government can deliver on its economic growth mission and climate goals.
Katy Heidenreich, Offshore Energies UK Supply Chain and People Director said:
We share the Chancellor’s commitment to Scotland’s energy future. Our industry plays a vital role in delivering jobs, growth, and energy security through the production of homegrown energy.
Government support for projects like Acorn is crucial. The UK Government has committed £200 million in development funding to Acorn — Scotland’s flagship carbon capture and storage initiative — marking a major milestone in advancing the country’s decarbonisation strategy. The project is expected to support around 15,000 jobs during peak construction and repurpose 175 miles of pipeline infrastructure to transport CO₂ from central Scotland to storage.
Appointment of Churches Conservation Trust members: 1 August 2025
The King has approved the nomination of Trustees of the Board of the Churches Conservation Trust.
The King has approved the nomination of Bishop Andrew Rumsey, Dr Ingrid Samuel OBE, Lord (Stephen) Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Michael Bithell JP, Vivienne King and Reverend Canon Timothy Goode.
Andrew Rumsey read history at the University of Reading before training for ordination at Ridley Hall, Cambridge and doctoral studies at King’s College, London. Ordained in 1997, he has held a variety of parish posts in London and Southwark and was appointed Suffragan Bishop of Ramsbury in 2018. Andrew is the joint National Church of England Lead for Church and Cathedral Buildings, and is a writer, musician and champion for Anglican heritage.
Dr Ingrid Helene Samuel OBE was educated at McGill University, Canada, obtaining BA in History, she then gained a M Litt and PhD in Modern History at Jesus College, Cambridge. In 2004 Ingrid was Head of Culture for the London Olympic Bid and between 2005 – 2011 has held several roles in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport including Head of Properties and Ceremonial Branch, Head of Heritage, and Head of Heritage and Architecture. Additionally, in 2011 she took up the role of Placemaking and Heritage Director with the National Trust.
Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, obtaining an MA in History. From 2021-2024 Stephen was Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Culture, Media & Sport, and previously was Political Secretary to the Prime Minister and Special Adviser to the Home Secretary.
Michael Bithell JP was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, completing a MA in Engineering Science and post-graduate studies in Manufacture and Management at Cambridge University. Now retired, Michael was Group Finance Director of United Westminster and Grey Coat Foundation from 2015 to 2022. Previously, he worked for Deloitte LLP for 23 years, as Director, National Quality & Risk; and Director, Corporate Finance Government & Infrastructure. He has a number of voluntary and non-executive positions, including as a member of London Diocesan Synod, Finance Committee and Non-Property Investment Committee, as a Magistrate and an Honorary Steward of Westminster Abbey.
Vivienne King was educated at Keele University obtaining a BSoc Sci in Law and Politics in 1983, subsequently completing a Legal Practice Course at the College of Law in 1985. In 2010 and 2012 she completed a Corporate Finance Programme with Cranfield University and in 2021 undertook Business Sustainability Management with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. After seven years as Real Estate Associate with Herbert Smith Freehills, Vivienne joined The Crown Estate in 1994 as a Senior Solicitor and was subsequently Director of Business Operations & General Counsel. She was CEO of the Soho Housing Association from 2016 to 2020, CEO of Revo and then Head of Real Estate Social Impact at The Good Economy. In March 2024 Vivienne founded Impactful Places, an independent sustainability consultancy.
Timothy Goode has been the Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture at York Minster since September 2023. Previously he was Rector of St Margaret’s Lee in South East London, and a member of General Synod and Archbishops’ Council. Tim is a member of the National Disability Task Group, which advises the Archbishops of Canterbury and York on disability issues and he led the first debate on disability at the General Synod in July 2022. Tim was a secondary school teacher at the Roehampton Institute and Director of Music of Homefield School from 1995-2007. He trained for ministry at Ripon College Cuddesdon and served his title at Croydon Minster, in the Diocese of Southwark and was ordained priest in 2010. From September 2012 to May 2018, he was Team Vicar of St Luke’s Whyteleafe and St Peter and St Paul, Chaldon, part of the Caterham Team ministry. From 2013 to 2021 he was additionally the Southwark Diocesan Disability Advisor. Tim was made an Honorary Canon of Southwark Cathedral in September 2020 and has been a trustee of the Churches Conservation Trust since November 2020. He has now been re-appointed in the role for a second term until October 2028.
A drop-in event is being held for people in Dundee to find out more about fostering and adoption.
Our Fostering, Adoption and Permanence Team are hosting the drop-in event at V&A Dundee on Monday 4thAugust, 11am-3pm, offering an opportunity for people to speak with the team and meet current foster carers.
To keep families in the city together, the council is looking for more people to become fosters carers or adoptive parents. This will allow children and young people to stay in their local community.
Fostering with Dundee City Council comes with a range of benefits, including competitive rates of pay, comprehensive training and resources, and ongoing support from a dedicated team.
Depute Convener Children, Families and Communities Convener Roisin Smith said:“Becoming a foster carer or adopting is an incredibly important role. This event will give people the chance to speak to our amazing foster carers, adopters, and the council team who support them.
“We are urgently looking for more people to become foster carers or adopt in the city. There are various fostering options available to suit different lifestyles, from short-term foster care, where you can give up as little as your time as one weekend, to long term placements.
“So, if you have a spare bedroom and can offer a child or young person a safe, secure and loving home to allow them to flourish and enjoy their youth, then please do think about how you can make a difference and come along on Monday to find out more.”
England seamer Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the remainder of the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India after injuring his left shoulder on Day 1 at The Oval, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Friday.
In a statement, the ECB said: “Chris Woakes will continue to be monitored throughout the remainder of the Fifth Test at The Kia Oval, following a left shoulder injury sustained on day one of the match against India. At this stage, the injury has ruled him out of any further participation in the Test. A further assessment will be conducted at the conclusion of the series.”
The injury occurred during the 57th over of India’s first innings when Woakes, fielding at long-off, dived to stop a boundary hit by Karun Nair. He landed awkwardly on his left shoulder and remained on the ground clutching it before walking off with his arm in a makeshift sling.
Before leaving the field, Woakes had bowled 14 overs and returned figures of 1/46. His absence compounds England’s injury concerns, with captain Ben Stokes already ruled out of the series decider due to a shoulder injury.
Woakes, 35, has been a mainstay of England’s bowling attack this series and is one of only two seamers—alongside India’s Mohammed Siraj—to have featured in all five Tests. He has bowled 181 overs across the series, picking up 11 wickets at an average of 52.18.
With Woakes sidelined, England’s bowling attack is left short on experience. The rest of the seamers in the squad have a combined total of just 18 Test caps.
Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey to be consulted on proposal to introduce new fire safety regulations Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey, or are involved in their ownership or management, are to be consulted on a proposal from the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs to introduce new fire safety regulations for tall residential buildings in Jersey.
The proposed regulations would directly implement some of the key recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Phase One inquiry report which are aimed at maintaining and where necessary, improving safety for residents of tall residential buildings. Tall residential buildings, TRBs, are defined, in Jersey as those buildings which are 11 metres tall and above.
Typically, these are blocks of flats where there are five or more stories, including the ground level. In some limited cases, this can include four-storey blocks of flats.
Jersey currently has more than 125 of these buildings providing homes to thousands of islanders, including both renters and owner occupiers.
In the regulations, tall residential buildings are defined as buildings which meet all of the following criteria:
contains a top storey more than 11 metres above ground level
contains two or more residential dwellings (typically flats)
contains common parts through which residents evacuate in the case of an emergency (typically shared corridors and stairways).
Speaking about the proposals, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, said: “Islanders will recall that Grenfell Tower was a 24-floor tall block of flats in London in which a significant fire occurred in 2017, leading to the tragic death of 72 people. Thankfully, no similar fires have occurred here, but that does not mean we should not seek to make the places where so many Islanders live as safe as possible.”
In England, a similar set of regulations to those being proposed by the Minister were introduced in January 2023 known as the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. Since the introduction of the English regulations, Jersey’s Fire and Rescue Service has been working closely with local property managers and building owner groups to implement the requirements on a voluntary basis in their buildings.
This approach has allowed property managers and building owners to become more familiar with the requirements and provided the Minister’s team with the opportunity to assess the impact of the regulations in England before designing something similar for Jersey.
“Throughout this work, it has been clear that fire safety responsibilities are taken very seriously. Approximately 19 per cent of Jersey’s tall residential buildings are estimated to be closely meeting the English regulatory requirements, with some others partially achieving them.
“However, the fact that the requirements are currently voluntary risks investment and time being de-prioritised in favour of other areas.”
While there has been no significant evidence of excessive fire risk, Jersey’s tall residential buildings as a group are now at risk of falling behind similar buildings in England in three areas:
The frequency of routine checks taking place on key fire safety features such as self-closing fire doors, fire service lifts, dry risers and smoke control systems and resolution of any issues
The provision of fire safety instructions to residents
The quality of building information provided to the Fire Service to help them tackle fires in tall residential buildings where the risk and complexity can be higher.
While Jersey’s building byelaws will have ensured tall residential buildings are built to local fire safety standards, there is currently no dedicated Jersey fire safety law that requires these buildings to manage and maintain their fire safety measures on an ongoing basis.
Deputy Le Hegarat added: “Creating regulations to implement some of the key building fire safety recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Phase One inquiry report is a logical and sensible step in the light of the inquiry’s findings.”
States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander, Jason Masterman said: “As firefighters, our top priority is keeping Islanders safe, especially in the places they call home. The proposed fire safety regulations for tall residential buildings are a vital step toward that goal.
“They will ensure key safety features, like self-closing fire doors, smoke control systems, and fire service lifts, are regularly checked and maintained. Residents will also receive clear fire safety information, and our crews will have access to simple accurate building floor plans and signposting to help them respond more effectively in emergencies.”
The consultation opens on Monday 4 August and will be available on gov.je.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray with Portadown Golf Club Officers, Bill Nixon, Mens President, Mark Jones, Mens Captain, Sharon Horsfall, Lady Captain and Doreen Johnston, Lady President at the reception to mark the 125th Anniversary of the club.
The Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray was joined by Councillor Kyle Savage and Cllr Kate Events to host a Civic Reception for Members of Portadown Golf Club to mark the Club’s 125th Anniversary.
At the Civic Reception the Lord Mayor on behalf of Council congratulated everyone involved with the Club on their commitment and effort to keep the club thriving through the years, from the Committee to the players, staff, volunteers and everyone in the golfing community. Council was then thanked for the reception by Captain Mark Jones.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray and Councillor Kyle Moutray with John Proctor, William McClean and Joe Partridge, the Trustees of Carlton Street Orange Hall.
In a few weeks on 12th August 2025 Carleton Street Orange Hall in Portadown will mark its 150th Anniversary, and last evening the Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray, along with Alderman Ian Burns, Councillor Kyle Moutray and Councillor Julie Flaherty received representatives from each of the groups who meet in the Hall for a Civic Reception in Craigavon Civic Centre to mark the anniversary.
The Lord Mayor welcomed all present and mentioned each of the Lodges and organisations who are based in Carleton Street Orange Hall. One of which is the Portadown Heritage Tours Association who have produced an anniversary booklet giving a detailed history of the Hall.
As well as the different organisations the Lord Mayor also mentioned the Jones family who lived in the hall when Mr Rab Jones was Caretaker. He wished the whole of the Carleton Street Orange Hall Community the very best as they cherish their Hall for many more years to come.
Lord Mayor of Armagh Stephen Moutray welcomes US Consul General James Applegate to The Palace Armagh The Palace Armagh CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com
The US Consul General, Mr James Applegate (US Consulate General Belfast), accompanied by Ms Dori Winter, Political Economic Chief, paid a visit to the Archbishops Palace, Armagh yesterday (30th July 2025) where they met with the Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray, Chief Executive, Mr Roger Wilson and Director, Mr Paul Tamati.
Mr Applegate and Ms Winter were happy to chat on a range of issues including the continuation of the important economic links that our Borough has with the USA and the importance of strengthening these.
2026 also marks the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in the United States and the Consul General also talked about how Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council may possibly play a part in these celebrations.
With a week to go until Rock ‘n’ Roll stars Oasis arrive in Edinburgh, we’ve released advice for residents, businesses, and visitors.
The sold-out shows taking place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Friday 8, Saturday 9 and Tuesday 12 August mark the band’s first appearance in the Capital since 2009 and are expected to draw Supersonic crowds of up to 210,000 fans over the three nights.
And we won’t just Roll with it. To keep the city running smoothly for everyone, planning has been underway for some time in collaboration with our partners. As the fans Slide Away, we will be making sure key areas surrounding Murrayfield will be tidied up all three nights after each show. We will also be dedicating extra litter collectors for Roseburn Park.
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cllr Jane Meagher, said:
Excitement is building in Edinburgh for Oasis Live 25 as it’s our turn to witness rock history. With all of our partners in the city we’ve been planning for this for some time to make sure we’re ready to welcome thousands of Oasis fans over three nights.
There will be extra trains, trams, and buses to accommodate concert goers, along with those attending our summer festivals. With this in mind we urge you to plan ahead.
We are keen for everyone to have an enjoyable experience, not only at the show, but on their way before and after. Whilst we relish hosting the biggest and best events and want everyone attending to truly enjoy themselves, it’s important that we remember our residents.
We ask that visitors are considerate and respectful of them whilst enjoying our fantastic capital city. We’re urging people to only travel to Murrayfield and the surrounding area if you have a ticket.
To find out more, and for helpful information in the lead-up to the concerts, visit our dedicated events webpage.
After providing continuous armed policing for the last 20 years, today (Fri 1 Aug 2025) the CNC officially ceased operations at Hunterston Nuclear Power Station
Hunterston Nuclear Power Station
Having successfully provided continuous armed policing for the last 20 years, today (Friday 1 August 2025) the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) officially ceased operations at Hunterston Nuclear Power Station in Ayrshire, Scotland.
A carefully planned and managed cessation process has ensured that CNC officers and staff have been supported into redeployment, retirement or new roles at other organisations, while business as usual at the site remained unaffected.
Chief Constable Simon Chesterman, showed his appreciation, saying:
“I would like to thank all the CNC officers and staff who have worked hard to protect the Hunterston site over the past two decades. Their positive and professional outlook throughout those years has been exemplary.
“This same professional approach has ensured the CNC maintained business as usual, providing high level armed policing as it always has done at the site, whilst simultaneously carrying out a complex cessation process with professionalism and commitment.
“Many colleagues have supported the cessation process, and I would like to pay tribute to them for all the hard work which has gone on behind the scenes to make the cessation process a success.”
The cessation was the first the force has been part of since withdrawing from Wylfa, in Wales, in April 2016. The cessation process is part of the normal business cycle for licenced civil nuclear sites – once a nuclear power station ceases generation and defueling operations are concluded, the site security classification can be downgraded.
The formal cessation process was carried out by the CNC in coordination with key partners, including EDF, the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council
Key improvements following stalking super-complaint
In September 2024, 15 recommendations were made to police chiefs in response to a super-complaint that raised concerns around the police response to stalking in England and Wales.
In November 2024, each police force published a bespoke action plan in response to the super-complaint, detailing its current practice and future plans to meet the recommendations.
Collectively, forces have made several key improvements:
Since 2023, there has been an 800% increase in uptake of the College of Policing’s stalking training, with many forces introducing face-to-face training input from victims and advocates including the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, for new recruits.
Training for new recruits has been updated to include cyber stalking and how offenders exploit technology to stalk victims.
Introduction of data dashboards to collect and monitor data relating to reports of stalking to help measure force performance. This data also helps forces to better understand victim and offender profiles and spot wider patterns of behaviour that inform risk assessments.
Most forces now monitor and audit Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) to ensure they are being correctly and promptly enforced.
Many forces have scrutiny panels and early advice clinics, made up of subject experts and wider criminal justice bodies, such as Probation and the Crown Prosecution Service, to ensure investigations are held to a high standard and victims are protected at the earliest opportunity.
Some forces review custody suites daily to identify detainees exhibiting stalking behaviours, which then triggers a thorough risk strategy from in-force stalking experts and investigating officers, to ensure safeguarding measures are in place for victims.
Forces are developing more multi-agency approaches to stalking, including exploring opportunities to embed the Multi-Agency Stalking Intervention Programme model pioneered in Cheshire.
Reports of stalking and harassment have risen sharply in recent years, largely due to changes in recording, but also because officers are better able to identify and record offences.
Stalking and harassment accounts for 40% of all offences related to violence against women and girls, a priority area for all police forces.
Deputy Chief Constable Sarah Poolman, national policing lead for stalking and harassment, said: “Stalking is a highly complex crime where offenders repeatedly target victims and their behaviour can escalate quickly. That is why it’s important that the police response is thorough and robust from the outset.
“Officers need to have the right knowledge and skills to spot wider patterns of behaviour and intervene as early as possible, which is why effective training is key.
“Because stalking is nuanced and complex, understanding what drives offending and addressing those root causes is the only way to prevent harm to victims. Forces that have multi-agency teams which include police, probation and specialist psychologists working together, have had the greatest impact on reducing re-offending rates and better protecting victims.
“Forces have made progress to broaden their understanding of stalking, better assess risk and improve investigations, but it’s important that we continue to work with victims and advocates to develop our approach further. There is more work to be done to ensure consistency of risk assessment, the retrieval of evidence from digital devices, and ensuring there are dedicated services for all victims of stalking.
“It is still the case that victims receive a different level of support depending on what part of the country they live in. Our focus is on driving a consistent approach across forces and using every tool available to us to better protect victims.”
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Opportunity to deliver HLPAS in Hereford and Worcester
Opportunity to deliver Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS) in Hereford and Worcester (including Kidderminster and Redditch)
The Legal Aid Agency (LAA) funds the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS) throughout England and Wales to provide:
Early legal advice to anyone at risk of possession proceedings and loss of their home – advice can be provided in relation to housing, debt and welfare benefits issues
In-court duty on the day emergency advice and advocacy to anyone facing possession proceedings
The service enables anyone at risk of losing their home or facing possession proceedings to get free legal advice, and representation in court, regardless of their financial circumstances.
As a result, the LAA is inviting providers who hold Housing and Debt contracts to express an interest in delivering HLPAS in Hereford and Worcester (which also includes the courts in Kidderminster and Redditch).
Next Steps
Please contact civil.contracts@justice.gov.uk by 5pm on Friday 8 August 2025 to express your interest in delivery of the service, following which you will receive details of next steps.
India’s lower order collapsed again on Friday as, after resuming at 204-6, they were skittled for 224 by England in less than half an hour at The Oval to leave their chances of finding the win they need to square the series hanging by a thread.
India’s tail has been their weak link all series but the middle order also failed to build on a decent end to Thursday’s play as pace bowler Josh Atkinson took five wickets on his return to action having not played a test since May.
Josh Tongue continued with his all or nothing approach from last night, spraying a ball wildly beyond the wicketkeeper for four byes then getting Karun Nair lbw for 57 to get England moving.
Washington Sundar, who showed such patience in his rearguard century to help save the fourth test, forgot that approach and tamely pulled straight to Jamie Overton to depart for 26 as the two remaining recognised batsmen went after adding a total of 11 runs off the bat between them on Friday.
Atkinson then bowled Mohammed Siraj and had Prasidh Krishna caught behind, both for ducks, to finish with 5-33 from 21.4 overs in his first appearance of the series.
Earlier the ECB said that all-rounder Chris Woakes will miss the remainder of the match after suffering a shoulder injury while fielding late on Thursday.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Government confirms Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the next EHRC chair
Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson confirmed as new Chair for Equality and Human Right Commission
Dr Stephenson will begin on 1 December 2025, after current chair Baroness Falkner’s term ends on 30 November
Dr Stephenson brings over 30 years of experience to the role
Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson has today confirmed that Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson will be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
This follows a full and open competition to recruit a new chair, in line with the Governance Code for Public Appointments.
Dr Stephenson appeared in front of the Women and Equalities Committee and the Joint Committee on Human Rights on 1 July as part of a pre-appointment hearing where she was scrutinised by the committees.
Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson has over 30 years of experience working on equality and human rights issues within the UK and internationally, over 20 of these at board and CEO level. She also holds a PhD in equality law.
Positions she has held include:
Director of the Women’s Budget Group
Director of the Fawcett Society
tutor and visiting lecturer at University of Warwick Law School, including international human rights, UK employment law, UK equality law
visiting lecturer at University of Nottingham School of Law, London School of Economics and University of Wolverhampton
consultant to equalities and human rights projects including British Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Trade Union Congress, and Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Chair of Early Education and Childcare Coalition
board member of Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC), Coventry Police and Crime Board, Just Fair, and Article 19
Campaigns Officer at Liberty
Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said:
Equality and opportunity are absolutely vital in improving people’s life chances and the EHRC plays an essential role in upholding and protecting our rights.
I have the utmost confidence that the depth and breadth of Dr Stephenson’s experience will allow her to run the EHRC with integrity and professionalism. I am particularly encouraged by the balance of her experience across equalities and human rights.
I look forward to working with her on our shared mission to ensure that background is no barrier to success across the country.
Dr Stephenson said:
It is a great honour to be appointed as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission at such a critical time.
I have spent over 30 years building my career across the equality and human rights sector and I am delighted to have the opportunity to bring my insight and experience to lead the EHRC with compassion, honesty and dedication.
I look forward to working with the Government and all stakeholders alongside my new colleagues at the EHRC to uphold equality and human rights and ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
Dr Zubaida Haque, former Deputy Director and Interim Director of Runnymede Trust said:
As the former Deputy Director and Interim Director of the Runnymede Trust during pivotal moments like the Windrush Scandal and the global Black Lives Matter protests, I know how important it is to centre the voices and experiences of Black and minority ethnic communities in public policymaking.
Having worked closely with Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson for nearly a decade, I can say without hesitation that Dr Stephenson has a very strong understanding of race, intersectionality, and the importance of including marginalised voices in all aspects of policy and decision-making.
We are living in uncertain political and economic times. Dr Stephenson’s extensive experience and leadership in equality and human rights is exactly what the EHRC needs right now.
Ali Harris, Chief Executive Officer of Equally Ours said:
Equally Ours has worked closely with Dr Stephenson for many years as director of the Women’s Budget Group.
At this critical time for people’s equality and human rights, Dr Stephenson will bring to this important role the ability to address complex issues, and the commitment to seeking to find solutions that work for everyone, through integrity and constructive dialogue.
The current chair Baroness Falkner’s term is due to end on 30 November 2025. Dr Stephenson will therefore begin her position on 1 December 2025.
The government is committed to ensuring that people of all backgrounds can thrive. The EHRC plays a vital role in upholding and promoting equality and human rights across England and Wales.
The EHRC is independent of the government and makes its own enforcement decisions, including about any inquiries and investigations it decides to conduct.
Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray with representatives from all 11 councils across Northern Ireland at the launch of the Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch competition.
Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch returns for a second year
Entrepreneurs from across the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough are being invited to write the next chapter of their business story, as Go Succeed’s Ultimate Pitch launched at the literary home of one of Ireland’s most celebrated storytellers, Seamus Heaney.
Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch is returning for a second year, providing entrepreneurs with the opportunity to win up to £6,000 in investment for their business idea.
The competition, first launched in 2024 by the government-backed enterprise support service, is open to individuals, businesses, and social enterprises of all shapes and sizes and in every sector.
The local heat will take place on Friday 10th October with entrants making the ‘ultimate pitch’ to an esteemed panel of expert judges.
The winner will progress to a region-wide final, joined by heat winners across all 11 councils in Northern Ireland, with an overall winner announced at a special event in Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy.
Last year’s local winner was Joe Garvey of Richmount Health Foods who secured a spot in the final after pitching their idea of converting waste from the local apple processing industry into a health food to a panel of judges from across the local business and civic community.
Alderman Stephen Moutray, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough, said:
“At Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, we are committed to building and maintaining an entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages and supports entrepreneurs from all sectors at any stage of their business journey.
“Last year’s Ultimate Pitch competition had an invaluable impact on the local community – it motivated, inspired, and pushed our local entrepreneurs to take their business idea to the next level. The confidence, networking, and pitching skills which each individual gained are essential skills for every entrepreneur, and on top of that – it was great fun too!
“Whether you are just starting out or already have an established business that is planning to launch a new product or service, we would love to hear from you.”
In addition to an overall winner who will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award, individual prizes will include the Go Succeed Impact Award for the best social enterprise, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award, and the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16–25-year-old entrepreneur.
Meanwhile, members of the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite finalist to win the People’s Choice Award.
Entrants have until 18th August to apply to the competition, with local heats being held within council areas throughout the autumn. Applicants will also have the opportunity to attend masterclasses on how to make the ultimate pitch ahead of their regional heats.
The panel of judges will be drawn from across Northern Ireland’s business and civic communities, with the final taking place on Wednesday 19th November, during Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Go Succeed is funded by the UK Government and delivered by Northern Ireland’s 11 councils. The service supports entrepreneurs, new starts and existing businesses with easy-to-access advice and support – including mentoring, masterclasses, peer networks, access to grant funding and business planning – at every stage of their growth journey.
To find out more about Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch, view the full terms and conditions, and apply, visit: www.go-succeed.com/TheUltimatePitch.
Visit Armagh is proud to unveil its newest destination marketing campaign, “Head to Armagh… and Surprise Yourself”, a playful celebration of a place where myth meets wonder, and history walks hand in hand with imagination.
The campaign introduces a cast of five larger-than-life characters – affectionately known as the ‘Big Heads’ – who are stepping out of the pages of Armagh’s legendary past and into the present to invite visitors into one of Ireland’s most storied regions. These bold personalities, each one rooted in Armagh’s mythological, ecclesiastical, and cultural heritage include:
Cu Chulainn: Ulster’s greatest warrior, trained at Emain Macha (Navan Fort), whose youthful bravery became legend.
St Patrick: The spiritual heart of Ireland, whose legacy lives on in the twin cathedrals that bear his name.
Queen Macha: The fierce and wise ruler of Ulster, whose name lives on in the very name of the city, Ard Macha.
Brian Boru: High King of Ireland, who chose Armagh as his final resting place, recognising its sacred significance.
Archbishop Robinson: The visionary who imagined a city of stars, books, and culture – and built it.
In a cinematic campaign video, the ‘Big Heads’ explore some of Armagh and beyond most iconic attractions, from the ancient Navan Fort to the award-winning Long Meadow Cider Orchards, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, Dan Winter’s Cottage, and the Armagh City Hotel. The result is a vibrant, tongue-in-cheek journey through a place that’s full of surprises.
The campaign will roll out in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland across cinema, video-on-demand, digital, press, and outdoor platforms, with a series of character reels introducing each legend in their own unique style. These short films set the tone for a summer of storytelling, exploration, and unexpected encounters.
But the real star of the show is Armagh itself. From sacred cathedrals to flavourful cider tastings, ancient forts to charming Georgian streets, Armagh is a place where every corner holds a story. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of saints, feast on local flavours, roam scenic trails, and enjoy family-friendly fun at attractions. And when the day is done, there’s always a warm welcome waiting in one of the region’s many charming places to stay.
The campaign aims to boost domestic tourism across the region throughout 2025 and beyond, with a particular focus on encouraging year-round visitation. Seasonal content will spotlight different experiences, from autumn harvests to winter stargazing, ensuring Armagh remains top of mind no matter the time of year.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Alderman Stephen Moutray commented:
“This campaign is a significant opportunity to position Armagh as a distinctive and compelling visitor destination. It not only promotes tourism, but inspires both residents and visitors to engage with the rich heritage, culture, and experiences that shape Armagh’s unique character. From history and hospitality to family-friendly attractions, Armagh has lots to offer — and we are confident this campaign highlights that in a powerful and meaningful way.”
The campaign is already generating buzz, with the ‘Big Heads’ making appearances at events and attractions throughout the summer. Visitors are encouraged to follow their journey and share their own Armagh adventures using the hashtag #SurpriseYourselfArmagh.
Beneath churchyards in London and Lincolnshire lie the chemical echoes of famine, infection and survival preserved in the teeth of those who lived through some of the most catastrophic periods in English history.
In a new study, my colleagues and I examined over 270 medieval skeletons to investigate how early-life malnutrition affected long-term health and life expectancy.
We focused on people who lived through the devastating period surrounding the Black Death (1348-1350), which included years of famine during the little ice age and the great bovine pestilence (an epidemic that killed two-thirds of cattle in England and Wales). We found that the biological scars of childhood deprivation during this time left lasting marks on the body.
These findings suggest that early nutritional stress, whether in the 14th century or today, can have consequences that endure well beyond childhood.
Children’s teeth act like tiny time capsules. The hard layer inside each tooth, called dentine, sits beneath the enamel and forms while we’re growing up. Once formed, it stays unchanged for life, creating a permanent record of what we ate and experienced.
As our teeth develop, they absorb different chemical versions (isotopes) of carbon and nitrogen from our food, and these get locked into the tooth structure. This means scientists can read the story of someone’s childhood diet by analysing their teeth.
A method of measuring the chemical changes in sequential slices of the teeth is a recent advance used to identify dietary changes in past populations with greater accuracy.
When children are starving, their bodies break down their fat stores and muscle to continue growing. This gives a different signature in the newly formed dentine than the isotopes from food. These signatures make centuries-old famines visible today, showing exactly how childhood trauma affected health in medieval times.
We identified a distinctive pattern that had been seen before in victims of the great Irish famine. Normally, when people eat a typical diet, the levels of carbon and nitrogen in their teeth move in the same direction. For example, both might rise or fall together if someone eats more plants or animals. This is called “covariance” because the two markers vary together.
But during starvation, nitrogen levels in the teeth rise while carbon levels stay the same or drop. This opposite movement – called “opposing covariance” – is like a red flag in the teeth that shows when a child was starving. These patterns helped us pinpoint the ages at which people experienced malnutrition.
Lifelong legacy
Children who survived this period reached adulthood during the plague years, and the effect on their growth was recorded in the chemical signals in their teeth. People with famine markers in their dentine had different mortality rates than those who lacked these markers.
For example, babies born small, a possible sign of nutritional stress, seem to be more prone to illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes in adulthood than the population at large. These characteristics can also be passed to future offspring through changes in how genes are switched on or off, known as “epigenetic effects” – which can endure for three generations.
Epigenetics explained.
In medieval England, early nutritional deprivation may have been beneficial during catastrophic times by producing adults of short stature and the capacity to store fat, but these people were much more likely to die after the age of 30 than their peers with healthy childhood dentine patterns.
The patterns for childhood starvation increased in the decades leading up to the Black Death and declined after 1350. This suggests the pandemic may have indirectly improved living conditions by reducing population pressure and increasing access to food.
The medieval teeth tell us something urgent about today. Right now, millions of children worldwide are experiencing the same nutritional crises that scarred those long-dead English villagers – whether from wars in Gaza and Ukraine or poverty in countless countries.
Their bodies are writing the same chemical stories of survival into their growing bones and teeth, creating biological problems that will emerge decades later as heart disease, diabetes and early death.
Our latest findings aren’t just historical curiosities; they’re an urgent warning that the children we fail to nourish today will carry those failures in their bodies for life and pass them on to their own children. The message from the medieval graves couldn’t be clearer: feed the children now or pay the price for generations.
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Julia Beaumont receives funding from Arts and Humanities research council, British Academy/Leverhulme.
Over a fifth of people in the UK have tried to access a weight loss drug in the last year, according to a recent poll.
Weight loss jabs such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are very effective in managing obesity. Clinical trials have shown that some people lose up to 26% of their body weight while using these drugs.
With this impact, it’s no wonder a growing number of people are seeking out these products – often buying them in private clinics or online. But with plans to expand access to these drugs through NHS prescriptions, there are concerns that supply may not meet demand – especially for those people in most need.
In the UK, NHS prescriptions for weight loss jabs are only approved for people who meet strict eligibility requirements. For example, to qualify early for Mounjaro from your GP, you must have health problems due to your weight and a body mass index greater than 40 (adjusted for ethnicity). People assessed by the NHS and given prescriptions will also have access to additional support – such as advice about diet and physical activity.
Weight loss drugs can be prescribed by specialist clinics and, increasingly, local GPs. But a lack of time and resources means even those who are eligible are left waiting. Consequently, people who can afford to do so are approaching private providers for access to these medicines – despite the potential risks to their health.
Demand for weight loss jabs is about to grow, as the provision of Mounjaro via GPs is imminent, pending the creation of an infrastructure to support safe local prescribing.
The number of monthly GP prescriptions in England for Mounjaro has already risen from under 3,000 in March 2024 (on introduction) to over 200,000 in May 2025. Mounjaro (also marketed in the US as Zepbound) is widely considered to be the best weight loss jab currently available and a great commercial success.
GP prescriptions of all forms of semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) are more stable, at around 130,000 items per month (including generics and products to treat diabetes).
While a number of GLP-1 drugs faced shortages last year (including Wegovy and Mounjaro), these shortages have now been resolved. Shortages were spurred by a spike in global demand for these drugs alongside stockpiling by private clinics to feed requests.
Still, there were reports early this year that certain strengths of Mounjaro were difficult to access. The reasons for this are not clear, but may be due to the novelty of access to this new medication or a lack of access to alternatives.
Wider NHS access to this drug is being phased to manage staff workload and ensure good support for patients. Phased rollout may also help to ensure there is enough supply for those who need to be prescribed one of these medications.
Future access
It’s likely that demand for these weight loss drugs will only continue to grow in the UK, so it’s important that supply is readily available.
Regulatory agencies have taken some steps to tighten controls of online prescribing of weight loss drugs and prevent misuse. Registered online pharmacies must seek independent verification of key clinical information (such as from a GP or through a person’s medical records) instead of relying on questionnaires or phone calls.
However, weight loss products remain easy to access for people with money and savvy search skills, but who may be clinically ineligible. The scale of demand from this group is difficult to quantify, but it’s clear more needs to be done to keep patients safe and manage demand.
Several new weight loss drugs are undergoing trials in the UK. These drugs will work similarly to those already available but may be administered differently (such as an oral tablet). The trials for these and subsequent approvals will not only increase market competition, but also improve patient access and choice.
Key patents for the manufacture of semaglutide are also due to expire in 2026 and 2031. Once a pharmaceutical product is outside of its patented time frame, other companies can be approved to manufacture it as a generic product.
A generic product is approved on the basis that it works in the same manner and has equal benefits to the original product. The generics market allows new entrants and new versions of these very popular products onto the market.
Generic products are usually less expensive and so are bought (where still clinically safe and effective) by the NHS. This change could provide greater access to weight loss medications and save the NHS and patients money in the long term.
Generic semaglutide products will probably be available in the UK from 2032 but will be initially authorised to treat diabetes rather than weight loss. Still, this should have a positive impact on the availability of prescription drugs used for both diabetes and weight management.
Generic liraglutide is already available on the NHS for the treatment of diabetes. The liraglutide brand Saxenda is also marketed for weight management. However, liraglutide is less effective than Wegovy or Mounjaro and requires daily injections.
The number of monthly NHS prescriptions for liraglutide has fallen from over 40,000 in July 2020 to 1,000 in May 2025. This fall was most likely influenced by the discontinuation of the Victoza brand for type 2 diabetes in late 2024. Shortages of all types of GLP-1 drugs, which lasted until the end of 2024, may also have impacted demand for liraglutide.
For now, NHS staff can report on known demand for these products to inform manufacturing quantities and procurement. What isn’t known is the future demand for online or private purchases of weight management drugs. It’s this “unknown” demand that may mean supply security is challenged and unsustainable.
Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox.Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Investigation opened into charity over potentially inflammatory sermon and social media
The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry into the Abdullah Quilliam Society.
The charity, based in Liverpool, was set up to restore Britain’s first ever mosque, founded by the Victorian convert to Islam, Abdullah Quilliam. It has registered purposes to promote Islam and to educate the public in the heritage of that faith.
The investigation is launched after the charity posted a video to its social media channels in June 2025, whose contents may not have furthered the charity’s objects could potentially be considered political, divisive and inflammatory.
The video suggested that named senior members of the Westminster Government were acting improperly and had received donations from the “Israeli lobby” and that the Commission was also being unduly influenced to ‘silence’ trustees. The video appeared to be drawn from a sermon delivered at the charity’s premises on 27 June 2025 and has since been removed from the charity’s social media platforms.
The Commission’s concerns are aggravated by previous engagement with the charity over the content of sermons and speeches at its premises, which culminated in an Official Warning issued against the charity on 12 June of this year. The warning stated that the trustees should take a number of steps, including to ensure all the charity’s activities are in furtherance of its purposes, and to create, implement and adhere to robust policies around the use of speakers and social media.
Scope of the Inquiry
The inquiry has been opened to evaluate the general administration, management, and governance of the charity by its trustees to determine whether there has been mismanagement and / or misconduct on the part of the trustees. It will establish facts, including the full circumstances around the sermon, determining whether its content was in furtherance of the charity’s objects, and in its best interests. The investigation will also seek to understand whether the charity has updated its policies following the Official Warning.
The scope of the inquiry may be extended if additional regulatory issues emerge during the Commission’s investigation.
Use of powers
As part of its inquiry, the Commission has issued the charity with an Order under section 84A of the Charities Act, which among other things prohibits the charity from allowing sermons or events to be held at the charity’s premises that include content that does not further the charity’s purposes or are not in the charity’s best interests. Similarly, the Order prevents the charity from posting content on its website or social media channels that do not further the charity’s purposes or are not in the charity’s best interests.
ENDS
Notes to editors
The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Read further information about what the Commission does
On 14 July 2025, the Charity Commission opened a statutory inquiry into the charity under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’) as a result of its regulatory concerns that there is or has been misconduct and / or mismanagement in the administration of the charity.
A statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets, or reputation. An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and / or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns.
s84A of the Charites Act 2011 give the Commission the power to direct a charity not to take or continue specific action if a statutory inquiry (s46) is open and the action would constitute misconduct or mismanagement in the administration of the charity.
In 2019, theD.C. Councillegalized sports betting by enacting theSports Wagering Lottery Amendment Act of 2018.Washington, D.C. was one of several jurisdictions to amend its laws related to sports betting after theU.S. Supreme Courtoverturned a1992 lawprohibiting these wagers inMurphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association.
While the D.C. Council created a framework for regulating sports betting in 2019, laws allowing gamblers to sue to recover their losses, which have been in the D.C. Code since 1963, remained in effect. These code provisions (§ 16–1701,§ 16–1702, and§ 16–1703) are thesubject of a lawsuitfiled earlier this year by a group seeking torecoup funds lost on sports wagers. Under D.C. Code section § 16–1702, anyone who loses more than $25 during a bet may file a lawsuit within three months to recover losses. After three months have passed, the law allows “any person [to] sue for, and recover treble the value of the money, goods, chattels, and other things, with costs of suit, by a civil action against the winner, one-half to the use of the plaintiff, the remainder to the use of the District of Columbia.” (D.C. Code § 16–1702.)
An interesting wrinkle in this story is that we can trace the lineage of these code sections to “An act for the better preventing of excessive and deceitful Gaming,” a statute enactedin Great Britain in 1710,duringQueen Anne’s reign. You may be wondering how exactly a law from the waning days of theStuart periodbecame part of the D.C. Code. The answer is somewhat complicated and requires a brief history lesson and a review of several legal resources.
The Adoption of English Common Law and Statutes in the American Colonies
During the American colonial era, English colonies were formed along the Atlantic coast. These colonies operated under charters approved by the English sovereign, which outlined the rights and responsibilities of colonists. These charters generally allowed the colonies to form their own governments, courts, and ordinances. (See, e.g., the 1632 Charter of Maryland at §§ VII and VIII.)
Although the monarch approved these charters and maintained sovereign rule over the colonies until American independence, “the common law and acts of Parliament in force in England at the time of the settlement of each colony were not considered as automatically brought by the settlers to that colony.” (Brown, p. 13.) As a result, the colonies adopted their preferred English common law principles and statutes through local ordinances, legislation, or court decisions. The process for adopting English laws varied considerably by jurisdiction. (Brown, pp. 23-46.)
Maryland’s Approach to Adopting Acts of Parliament
In 1776, Maryland adopted itsDeclaration of Rights, which implemented both the common law of England and many English statutes, including those that were in effect during the first emigration of colonists to Maryland and “all acts of assembly in force on the first of June, seventeen hundred and seventy-four[.]” (Art. 5.(a).) Although English statutes were a source of law, Maryland courts had considerable discretion in determining whether these statutes were in effect. (Brown, pp. 96-98.) Because Maryland judges were frequently asked to determine whether English statutes were applicable in Maryland, in 1809, the Maryland legislature sought clarity and requested that the court chancellor and judges of the Court of Appeals write areport on English statutes applicable in Maryland.
Religious & civil liberty established in Maryland in 1649. James Barry. Feb. 28, 1793. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. https://loc.gov/pictures/resource/pga.00132.
Chancellor of Maryland William Kilty issued his report in 1810. Kilty divided his report into three parts, the third of which addressed “statutes which have been found applicable and are proper to be introduced and incorporated” into Maryland law. Among these applicable statutes is one titled “An act for the better preventing of excessive and deceitful gaming.” Kilty’s report describes this law, but a full text is available in a later compilation of British statutes that were in force in Maryland.
The District of Columbia is Created and Adopts Maryland and Virginia Laws
Washington, D.C. and its basic governing mechanics were formed through a series of federal statutes enacted in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Congress formally organized the District of Columbia in the Organic Act of 1801, ch. 15, 2 Stat. 103 (Feb. 28, 1801). That law divided the District into two counties; the county of Washington was on the Maryland side of the Potomac River, and the county of Alexandria was located on the Virginia side. (Organic Act of 1801, sec. 2.)
L’Enfant map of Wash., D.C. 1792. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, https://loc.gov/pictures/resource/cph.3b46237/.
While these counties formed one district, the statute provided, “the laws of the state of Virginia, as they now exist, shall be and continue in force in that part of the District of Columbia, which was ceded by [Virginia] … and that the laws of the state of Maryland, as they now exist, shall and continue in force in that part of the said district, which was ceded by [Maryland] ….” (Organic Act of 1801, sec. 1). Put another way, “the accumulated laws of Maryland and Virginia as they existed as of 1801 would continue in force in the respective portions of the District ceded by these states.” (Acosta, p. 222.)
Through the framework listed in the Organic Act of 1801, Washington, D.C. adopted by reference the 1710 British statute “An act for the better preventing of excessive and deceitful gaming.” A federal statute in 1901 reaffirmed Washington, D.C.’s adoption of Maryland laws in 1801 (ch. 854, 31 Stat. 1189, § 1 (Mar. 3, 1901)), including the “common law [and] all British statutes in force in Maryland on February 27, 1801[.]” This statute has a corresponding provision in the current D.C. Code at § 45–401.
The Current and Future Status of These D.C. Code Provisions
D.C. Code §§ 16–1701, 16–1702, and 16–1703 were added to the D.C. Code through a federal statute codifying laws regarding judicial procedure in 1963. (Pub. L. No. 88-241, 77 Stat. 478, 582-583 (Dec. 23, 1963).) They have not been amended significantly since that time. While the language in the modern D.C. Code provisions differs significantly from the ancestor English statute that was enacted in 1710, if you take a moment to look at these laws side-by-side, you will spot several similarities.
In response to the lawsuit I referenced at the start of this post, the D.C. Council is amending § 16–1702 through B26-0265, a budget package that is currently pending final approval. (See engrossed bill, p. 24, sec. 2062.)
While this law may be amended soon, many other laws derived from the English common law and old statutes remain valid in Washington, D.C., and across several states. To learn more about this topic, I recommend consulting the sources below:
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Habib Noorbhai, Professor (Health & Sports Science), University of Johannesburg
If you were to walk through the corridors of some of the world’s leading cricket schools, you might hear the crack of leather on willow long before the bell for the end of the day rings.
Across the cricketing world, elite schools have served as key feeder systems to national teams for decades. They provide young players with superior training facilities, high-level coaching and competitive playing opportunities.
This tradition has served as cricket’s most dependable talent pipeline. But is it a strength or a symptom of exclusion?
My recent study examined the school backgrounds of 1,080 elite men’s cricketers across eight countries over a 30-year period. It uncovered telling patterns.
Top elite cricket countries such as South Africa, England and Australia continue to draw heavily from private education systems. In these nations, cricket success seems almost tied to one’s school uniform.
I argue that if cricket boards want to promote equity and competitiveness, they will need to broaden the talent search by investing in grassroots cricket infrastructure in under-resourced areas.
For cricket to be a sport that anyone with talent can succeed in, there will need to be more school leagues and entry-level tournaments as well as targeted investment in community-based hubs and non-elite school zones.
Findings
South Africa is a case in point. My previous study in 2020 outlined that more than half of its national players at One-Day International (ODI) World Cups came from boys-only schools (mostly private).
These schools are often well-resourced, with turf wickets, expert coaches and an embedded culture of competition. Unsurprisingly, the same schools tend to produce a high number of national team batters, as they offer longer game formats and better playing surfaces. Cricket’s colonial origins have influenced the structure and culture of school cricket being tied to a form of privilege.
In Australia and England, the story is not very different. Despite their efforts to diversify player sourcing, private schools still dominate. Even in cricketing nations that celebrate working-class grit, such as Australia, private school players continue to shape elite squads.
The statistics say as much; for example: about 44% of Australian Ashes test series players since 2010 attended private schools, and for England, the figure is 45%. That’s not grassroots, it could be regarded as gated turf…
Proportion of elite male cricketers by school type.Habib Noorbhai
Yet not all countries follow this route. The West Indies, Pakistan and Sri Lanka reflect very different models. Club cricket, informal play and community academies provide their players with opportunities to rise. These countries have lower reliance on private schools. Some of their finest players emerged from modest public schooling or neighbourhood cricketing networks.
India provides an interesting hybrid. Although elite schools such as St. Xavier’s and Modern School contribute players, most national stars emerge from public institutions or small-town academies. The explosion of the Indian Premier League since 2008 has also democratised access, pulling in talent from previously overlooked and underdeveloped cities.
In these regions, scouting is based on potential, not privilege.
So why does this matter?
At first glance, elite schools producing elite cricketers might appear logical. These institutions have the resources to nurture talent. But scratch beneath the surface and troubling questions appear.
Are national teams truly reflecting their countries? Or are they simply echo chambers of social advantage?
In South Africa, almost every Black African cricketer to represent the country has come through a private school (often on scholarship). That suggests that talent without access remains potentially invisible. It also places unfair pressure on the few who make it through, as if they carry the hopes of entire communities.
I found that in England, some county systems have started integrating players from state schools, but progress is slow. In New Zealand, where cricket is less centralised around private institutions, regional hubs and public schools have had more success in spreading opportunities. However, even there, Māori and Pasifika players remain underrepresented in elite squads.
Four steps that can be taken
1. One solution lies in recognising that schools don’t have a monopoly on talent. Cricket boards must increase investment in grassroots infrastructure, particularly in under-resourced areas. Setting up community hubs, supporting school-club partnerships and more regional competitions could discover hidden talent.
2. Another step is to improve the visibility and reach of scouting networks. Too often, selection favours players from known institutions. By diversifying trial formats and leveraging technology (such as video submissions or performance-tracking apps), selectors can widen their net. It’s already happening in India, where IPL scouts visit the most unlikely of places.
3. Coaching is another stumbling block. In many countries, high-level coaches are clustered in elite schools. National boards should consider optimising salaries as well as rotating certified coaches into public schools and regional academies. They should also ensure coaches are developed to be equipped to work with diverse learners and conditions.
4. Technology offers other exciting possibilities too. Virtual simulations, motion tracking and AI-assisted video reviews are now common in high-performance centres. Making simplified versions available to lower-income schools could level the playing field. Imagine a township bowler in South Africa learning to analyse their technique using only a smartphone and a free app?
Fairness in sport
The conversation about schools and cricket is not just about numbers or stats. It is about fairness. Sport should be the great leveller, not another mechanism of exclusion. If cricket is to thrive, it needs to look beyond scoreboards and trophies. It must ask who gets to play and who never gets seen?
A batter from a village school in India, a wicket-keeper from a government school in Sri Lanka or a fast bowler in a South African township; each deserves the chance to be part of the national story. Cricket boards, policymakers and educators must work together to make that possible.
The game will only grow when it welcomes players from all walks of life. That requires more than scholarships. It requires a reset of how we think about talent. Because the next cricket superstar may not wear a crest on their blazer. They may wear resilience on their sleeve.
– Cricket’s great global divide: elite schools still shape the sport – https://theconversation.com/crickets-great-global-divide-elite-schools-still-shape-the-sport-261709
