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Gary Lineker deletes 'Zionism' post after criticism

by Louis February 3, 2025
written by Louis

Gary Lineker has deleted an Instagram story post he shared from the group Palestine Lobby, which said: "Zionism explained in two minutes" and featured an illustration of a rat.

A rat has historically been used as an antisemitic insult, referring to language used by Nazi Germany to characterise Jews.

Lineker's agent told the BBC the presenter immediately deleted the post when he learned about the image's symbolism.

The charity Campaign Against Antisemitism said it was submitting a complaint to the BBC.

Lineker's agent said: "Whilst viewing and reposting a video, Gary did not notice a rodent emoticon added by the author of the post. Although if he had, he would not have made any connection. The repost has been removed."

In response to Lineker's post, Campaign Against Antisemitism posted on X: "Nothing to see here. Just Gary Lineker's Instagram account sharing an anti-Israel video misrepresenting Zionism, complete with a rat emoji."

The group added that his "continued association with the BBC is untenable. He must go".

The BBC, when asked if it had any comment on Lineker's now-removed post, responded by referring to its guidance on personal use of social media.

Zionism refers to the movement to create a Jewish state in the Middle East, roughly corresponding to the historical land of Israel, and thus support for the modern state of Israel.

A spokesperson for the Board of Deputies of British Jews said they felt "the BBC should ask him to leave now rather than allowing him to dictate his own terms", according to the Daily Mail.

"He has caused great offence with this video – particularly with his egregious use of a rat emoji to illustrate Zionists."

BBC News has asked the body about its comments and if it has anything further to add.

Barrister Simon Myerson KC, who chairs the Leeds Jewish Representative Council, posted a message to the outgoing Match of the Day presenter, which said: "Posting racism – bad. Deleting racist post – good. Not acknowledging error when paid enormous amount of public money pa by BBC – pathetic."

'I know where I stand'

Last month, Lineker spoke to BBC presenter Amol Rajan about his views on the Middle East.

The sports presenter said: "I know where I stand on this… What's going on there [Gaza], the mass murder of thousands of children is probably something we should have a little opinion on."

The war in Gaza was triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others taken hostage.

Israel launched a mass military offensive on Gaza in response which has killed 52,908 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Rajan responded to Lineker's comment that the BBC "as a whole needs to be impartial about it", to which Lineker replied: "Why? It needs to be factual."

The journalist said the BBC, as a public broadcaster, needs to be "impartial about conflict", to which Lineker replied: "It wasn't impartial about Ukraine and Russia… I think facts are the most important thing."

Lineker hitting headlines

Lineker was temporarily suspended from the BBC in March 2023 after an impartiality row over comments he made criticising the then-government's new asylum policy.

Reflecting on his tweets in the interview with Rajan, Lineker said he did not regret taking the position he did, but that he would not do it again because of the "damage" it did to the BBC.

In February, Lineker made headlines when he was among 500 other high-profile figures who signed an open letter urging the BBC to reinstate a documentary, Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone, to BBC iPlayer.

The documentary was pulled from the streaming service in February after it emerged its 13-year-old narrator was the son of a Hamas official.

After concerns were raised, the BBC took down the film while it carried out further due diligence. The corporation has apologised and admitted "serious flaws" in the making of the film and the matter is still subject to an internal investigation.

Lineker and the BBC jointly announced in November that he would be stepping down from presenting Match of the Day, although he will still host World Cup and FA Cup coverage.

On top of his presenting roles, Lineker is also the co-founder of Goalhanger Podcasts, which make the successful The Rest is History series and its spin-offs about Politics, Football, Entertainment and Money.

The Rest is Football podcast, featuring Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, is also on BBC Sounds.

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February 3, 2025 0 comments
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Global Trade

Paintball site planned for former farm building

by Katherine February 3, 2025
written by Katherine

Plans for a new paintball and laser tag centre in a former farm building in Surrey have been put forward.

The centre could be launched at The Paddock in Langley Vale Road, next door to Epsom Down's racecourse and golf club.

The proposed range, named PandaWarz, would offer laser tag to under 16's and paintball to those aged 16 and above.

Epsom and Ewell Borough Council will decide whether the scheme can go ahead, with local people able to comment on the plans until 30 April.

Getty Images
The proposed site would also offer laser tag games

The developers claimed Epsom was a "thriving town with much to offer", but was "limited in leisure".

Planning documents said there were "minimal opportunities for young children and young adults", particularly when it came to their "special annual celebrations".

Details of the scheme include changing the existing agricultural building into an indoor children's laser tag arena, while two containers could also be installed to make closed arenas, along with a temporary roof covering for indoor paintball, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Getty Images
Developers said the arenas would be self-contained, with noise reduction measures in place

The two play areas would be made up of shipping containers, internal rooms, mazes and obstacles.

Fine mesh is proposed to cover the arenas so no paintballs could be fired beyond the confines of the play area, while a gantry has been designed over and around the arena with a temporary roof covering to protect both spectator and player from any weather.

Noise will be reduced by containing the games within the existing building, the application states.

Car parking for up to 15 vehicles would also be included.

February 3, 2025 0 comments
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Global Trade

Green Party will 'work with anyone' on council

by Mia January 30, 2025
written by Mia

The Green Party has celebrated a landmark performance in the 2025 local elections in a county, emerging as the third largest party on a unitary authority.

The party took eight seats on North Northamptonshire Council, double that of Labour.

It also picked up 19 of the 20 seats on Kettering Town Council.

Emily Fedorowycz, Green Party leader on North Northamptonshire Council said: "We're very appreciative. We've always said we would work with anyone to get things done for the good of the community."

What does the Town Council do?

Emily Fedorowycz
Ben Jameson was elected to represent Ise Ward in Kettering after receiving 1,612 votes

Kettering Town Council serves a community of about 50,000 electors and consists of 20 councillors, elected for a term of four years.

Town councillors are all elected members and they receive no financial allowances for their term in office.

Town councils take responsibility for providing and maintaining local amenities such as open spaces, allotments, public clocks, village halls, footpaths and litter bins.

They also provide community buildings and a wide range of facilities, from cemeteries and allotments to grants and community groups.

Responding to planning applications and accessing grant funding for projects can also fall under their remit.

Town councils can influence local laws and policies that address community needs, such as zoning regulations, public safety measures, and environmental policies.

They also raise a precept – a form of council tax – to help fund its operation and oversee the allocation of funds for various services, ensuring taxpayers' money is spent effectively.

What are the Green's policy priorities?

Laura Coffey/BBC
Emily Fedorowycz and Dez Dell were both elected for Kettering North on North Northamptonshire Council

While the Greens do not have control of North Northamptonshire Council, they can propose items to the local authority.

However, the party does have a majority on Kettering Town Council.

Ms Fedorowycz said: "We want to act as a spark for local action – we will push for funding to empower local people and businesses, and work proactively to get more done for the town.

"We want to have a positive influence on North Northants Council, especially on big issues like improving our town centre, creating opportunities for young people and, of course, getting our roads fixed.

"Kettering Town Council already has money allocated to doing more for young people in Kettering, and as Greens we want to support our younger generations."

How did the Greens win 19 seats?

Green councillors credit grassroots engagement and voter disillusionment with traditional parties for their success.

"It's been a huge team effort," said Ben Jameson, 29, who was elected to represent Ise ward in Kettering.

"[Kettering was where the party has] been the most active and had the most presence. People are so fed up and disenfranchised – they voted for change, whatever that looks like."

Mr Jameson, who entered politics just over a year ago, added: "We need to look at how we make people feel valued again and how we make sure they have a voice."

How will they work with Reform UK?

Following the local elections, Reform UK now controls North Northamptonshire Council – with 39 councillors.

While the party's national policies differ significantly, Ms Fedorowycz said the Greens are prepared to work across party lines where needed.

"We've always said we would work with anyone to get things done for the good of the community. Once you're elected as a councillor, you need to put the politics aside and work together for the good of the area," she said.

She added: "Obviously we're not really aligned with [Reform] on a national level, but that isn't relevant locally. We want to be the experienced person in the room and guide them, making sure local people don't miss out."

January 30, 2025 0 comments
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Industry

Inquest to examine death of woman killed by husband

by Kristen January 30, 2025
written by Kristen

A coroner has said there remain "sufficient reasons" for an inquest to investigate the death of a woman after her husband was jailed for her murder more than a year ago.

Taiwo Abodunde, 41, suffered "catastrophic brain injuries" when Olobunmi Abodunde attacked her at their home in Newmarket, Suffolk, in November 2023.

Abodunde, 48, was told he would serve a minimum of 17 years in prison when he was jailed for life last May, having admitted killing his wife with a skateboard.

At a pre-inquest hearing, Suffolk Coroner Darren Stewart said an inquest was needed to address matters "that were not dealt with" during the trial at Ipswich Crown Court.

Suffolk Constabulary
Olobunmi Abodunde admitted killing his wife with a skateboard but blamed his loss of control on medication

At Abodunde's trial, the crown court heard how he had been arrested and then bailed the day before his wife's death after Suffolk Police was called to a domestic incident.

The next day, officers returning for a pre-arranged appointment with Mrs Abodunde heard between 40 and 50 "thuds", receiving no reply when they knocked at the door.

They were cleared by senior officers to enter the house at 09:45 GMT, about 25 minutes after they had arrived.

They found the "lifeless body of Mrs Abodunde with her skull smashed in", prosecutor Stephen Spence KC told the court.

John Fairhall/BBC
Police had been called to a domestic incident at the couple's home the day before the murder

The handling of the police's response was examined by the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which ruled two officers would face gross incompetence meetings.

Suffolk Police said its investigation to determine whether or not the actions of its attending officers amounted to gross incompetence remained ongoing.

At the pre-inquest hearing, Mr Stewart said he would not conduct the inquest "until after those proceedings have completed", and added: "The inquest is a not a blame game."

The inquest is expected to last two weeks but is not likely to get under way until next March, at the earliest.

January 30, 2025 0 comments
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Tech

Driver speeds away from police at 130mph missing HGV

by Emma January 29, 2025
written by Emma

A driver was caught speeding away from police, driving in excess of 130mph before abandoning the car at a nearby cemetery.

Officers signalled at the man's grey Seat Leon to stop on Bothwell Road, Hamilton at about 20:20 on Wednesday, due to the nature of his driving.

Instead he drove off at speeds of between 130mph and 160mph onto the M74 northbound, then on to the slip road at Daldowie Crematorium where the car was found.

Police believe the man nearly collided with a heavy goods vehicle near this slip road. Officers said a 20-year-old man was later arrested and charged.

Con Shannon Watts said the man was a "danger to himself" and to others on the road.

She appealed for the lorry driver to get in touch with police and for any dash cam footage that witnesses may have between 20:20 and 20:40.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact the force via the non-emergency line.

January 29, 2025 0 comments
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Market

Theatre scheme helps people in 'loneliest borough'

by Shannon January 29, 2025
written by Shannon

A new project is attempting to tackle isolation in what has been described as "London's loneliest borough".

Hampstead Theatre in Camden has launched a programme for adults at risk of social isolation, offering writing and performance sessions or tickets to see a show at the theatre.

Costas, 84, is one of those who is taking part in the scheme. He is now a budding playwright.

"This community experience is unbelievable," he said. "To be honest, I didn't know that I had it in me. I've started writing since then. I'm on my third play."

Jennifer Davis, theatre and participation director for Hampstead Theatre, runs the course.

She said she was inspired to launch it after reading Camden's State of the Borough Report in 2024.

According to the document, more than a third of adults in Camden said they felt lonely some of the time, often or always. At 36.3%, the figure was the highest of all the London boroughs.

"I couldn't quite believe it. Camden is such a busy, bustling part of the capital and I couldn't understand why," Ms Davis said.

"I thought the theatre needed to do something about it.

"There's lots of brilliant theatres doing this kind of work, and for me, theatre has always offered a community, a home, and I wanted to open up Hampstead to the Camden community."

She added: "Whether you're on the stage, whether you're writing a play or performing in it, or watching it, it is a communal experience.

"It's where conversations can be sparked and bonds are built – I just thought we were the perfect place to be doing this kind of work."

Ms Davis said the theatre had worked on the project with Age UK Camden, Wac Arts and the Winch – local charities that support people in the borough.

"Theatre is such a brilliant way of sharing, exploring your identity, meeting new people and building bonds," she added.

'More lonely society'

Professor Jason Arday, who has a Radio 4 programme called A Lonely Life, said loneliness was "becoming part of the general zeitgeist".

"We are living in a more lonely society for lots of different reasons," he said. "Division plays a big part of that, the turbulence and the stresses of life, I think people are finding it harder."

Professor Arday said small interventions, such as the project by Hampstead Theatre, were "hugely impactful".

"Importantly, it does set a premise for best practice, in terms of what other communities can engage in across the nation," he said.

"You probably couldn't think of many better instruments than the arts."

January 29, 2025 0 comments
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Economy

Library to open after £17m refurbishment

by Grayson January 28, 2025
written by Grayson

A library will officially open in a former department store following a £17m refurbishment.

About 100 guests have been invited to mark the opening of The Place – on the site of the former Palmers shop – in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.

The building also has a community hub and a learning centre offering diplomas, degrees, courses and community services.

Conservative councillor, Carl Smith, said: "The Place is one of the biggest regeneration projects the town has seen in recent years."

While the library has been open to the public since 6 May, Lady Dannatt MBE, Lord Lieutenant for Norfolk, is set to officially open the building at 11:30 BST.

From Wednesday, East Coast College and the University of Suffolk will be holding taster sessions for people to find out about the courses and qualifications due to be offered at the site.

Andrew Turner/BBC
Kerry Murray said "so many people" have joined the library since it reopened

Head of library operations Kerry Murray said the library has already seen an increase in footfall since it opened a week ago, and the "build-up" to the official launch has "been immense".

"Customers are really excited to come back to the library," she said.

"That there's something like this invested in their town for local people, and really invigorating the town, and bringing it back to life."

The project in the five-storey building was funded with money from the government's Town Deal and Future High Streets fund, as well as the East Coast College and the University of Suffolk.

Smith said: "We are looking forward to welcoming the people of the borough to see for themselves just how impressive The Place is.

"It has been incredibly complex to completely refurbish this historic building, and I would like to thank our partners and the team at Morgan Sindall for their hard work in helping us realise our ambitions for our community."

Andrew Turner/BBC
The Place has gone into the former Palmers department store building which originally opened in 1837
  • Palmer family members see old store transformed
  • Milestone reached in £17m project to develop old shop
  • Great Yarmouth: Transformation of derelict Palmers department store begins

Palmers originally opened in 1837 but closed in March 2020. It was then taken over by Beales, but the company went into administration.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council bought the building in 2021 with ambitions of turning it into a community hub for the town.

The regeneration of the building aimed to preserve as many historic details as possible so visitors could learn about the town's history.

January 28, 2025 0 comments
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Industry

'I found out about Lions selection on Ceefax'

by Liam January 27, 2025
written by Liam

One of the biggest stories from the announcement of British and Irish Lions squad was the selection of 20-year-old Henry Pollock.

The forward was one of four Northampton Saints players named in the 38-strong party for the tour of Australia.

His name and picture were greeted by loud cheers by the 2,000 fans inside Indigo, a venue within London's O2 Arena complex, in scenes very different from former Lions learned of their selection.

Winger Ian Hunter, who was picked for the 1993 Lions tour to New Zealand, said he discovered his selection "on Ceefax… sitting on my own starring at the TV, waiting for page one to move to page two".

Getty Images
Ian Hunter injured his shoulder in the opening game of the 1993 tour of New Zealand

Ceefax was a teletext service that allowed people to check the latest BBC news and sport via their televisions.

Hunter, 56, said he was not expecting his selection.

"Anyone who is there or thereabouts is always thinking 'What if?' but obviously when it came up it was an amazing experience," he said.

Northampton Saints posted a video on social media of the players watching the Lions squad announcement.

Despite the technological changes since he played, Hunter said he knew the emotions they were going through.

"It's the same feeling. Being picked for the Lions is the pinnacle of anyone's career," he said.

Hunter's tour with the Lions was cut short, after he injured his shoulder in the first match, but he added: "Just putting the jersey on… was a 'pinch me' moment… definitely my proudest moment."

'A journalist phoned me up'

Getty Images
Colin Deans toured New Zealand with the Lions in 1983

Former Scotland forward Colin Deans was selected for the 1983 Lions tour to New Zealand.

The 70-year-old, who coached at Northampton Saints and lives in Northamptonshire, said he found out from a journalist who called him.

"There was no announcement. I think I got a letter two days later from the Lions," he said.

"It was one of the press who phoned me up and said 'Congratulations.'"

On Thursday's event, when the latest squad was announced, he said: "I think the Lions is becoming quite a successful financial animal; it was absolutely great."

Getty Images
Henry Pollock was named in the Lions squad, despite having only played just one test for England

He did not play in 1983 but then was made captain for the proposed 1986 tour of South Africa.

That did not go ahead due to a boycott of sports tours in the country because of apartheid.

Despite that, Deans was still at the captain's dinner on Wednesday evening and at the announcement event at the O2 the following day.

Deans said he was not surprised by Henry Pollock's selection.

"Pollock is one of those guys that rugby needs, he's brought this air of freshness… he's just unbelievable," he said.

January 27, 2025 0 comments
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