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MANCHESTER UNITED signing Matheus Cunha has revealed that he has one of Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United shirts in his home – days after taking his shirt number at the club.

The Brazilian was officially confirmed as Man Utd’s new No10 on Tuesday – weeks after he made his £62.5million transfer from Wolves.

Manchester United FC

Cunha was awestruck seeing his name above the number 10 for Man Utd[/caption]

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Marcus Rashford’s time with the shirt ended unceremoniously after he fell out with new manager Ruben Amorim late last year[/caption]

Marcus Rashford occupied the iconic shirt at Man Utd after Zlatan Ibrahimovic left the club during the 2017/18 season.

However, in the wake of his explosive fallout with Ruben Amorim earlier this season, it became clear that Rashford’s time at the club was coming to its end.

Cunha, 26, has always possessed an appreciation for the number ten, having previously worn it at past clubs Hertha Berlin and Wolves.

But in an interview with his new club’s media channels, Cunha put a special emphasis on the number’s legacy at Man Utd, including his respect for the outgoing Rashford.

He said: “I always think about this shirt – the one I think about is Wayne Rooney, I grew up watching him play.

“Many players, Van Nistelrooy, Ibrahimovic.

“I swapped shirts with Marcus Rashford also, I have his shirt in my home.”

Cunha bagged 21 Premier League goal contributions in 33 games last season for Wolves, putting him in the shop window as Amorim searched for solutions to his side’s struggling output.

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Man Utd’s joint top scorers in the league, Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes, netted just eight goals apiece last season.

Cunha has been the Red Devils’ marquee signing of the window thus far, and is gearing up to begin his pre-season preparations with the club.

Cunha said: “I’m so excited to get going. When we start to kick the ball, I can be a bit more calm and feel normal on the pitch.

“The first time I pull the shirt on will be something.”

Man Utd will kick off their pre-season with a friendly against Leeds on July 19, before heading to the US for the Premier League Summer Series at the end of the month.

PA

Cunha spent two and a half seasons in Wolverhampton after making the move from Atletico Madrid[/caption]

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Cunha united with his new teammates for the first time after reporting to his first training sessions on Monday[/caption]

THERE are few sports as heavily ingrained into Irish culture as horse racing.

With a strong Irish presence in the big UK races including Cheltenham, Royal Ascot and the Grand National to huge festivals over here including the Dublin Racing Festival and Punchestown.

In this guide to the best horse betting sites, we delve into the sport in detail, introducing key concepts to beginners and offering valuable betting tips for both new and experienced horse racing bettors. 

Top-rated Irish horse racing betting sites

Narrowing down the list of the best Irish horse racing betting sites was no easy task. We have applied our Sun Factor ratings, as well as our experiences using these sites, to create the following list. 

A closer look at the best horse racing betting sites in Ireland

1. bet365

After careful consideration, we have ranked bet365 as our favourite horse racing betting site in Ireland. There are many reasons for this. The site offers regular live-streams, enhanced odds, and extra place specials, all of which significantly enhance the horse racing betting experience. 

The best odds guaranteed feature is extremely useful, ensuring you will get the best available odds pre-race for your selection. Its daily price boosts also ensure that horse racing is given the spotlight year-round, and not just during Cheltenham or other major events. You will also find some excellent ante-post betting opportunities for all of the major events. 

During big events, the site will also increase the number of places it offers, with them paying out six places on this year’s Grand National. 

This is topped off with a fantastic welcome bonus, which serves up €30 in free bets when punters deposit their first €10 on the site. 

2. BetVictor

BetVictor was a close second in our rankings of the best horse racing betting sites in Ireland. The operator’s live coverage is superb, and you will find some of the most competitive odds in Ireland here. There is also a Best Odds Guaranteed feature in place for all races from Ireland and the UK. 

As well as this, it also has the extremely useful BetFinder feature. This allows you to filter your requirements to find a bet for you. You can choose the horse grade, recent form, and more, and the site will find a horse that fits your description in today’s races. 

New customers at BetVictor can claim €50 in bonuses when they make their first €10 bet on the site. 

3. Novibet

Novibet has recently established itself as one of the top bookmakers in Ireland, and one of the main reasons for this is its selection of horse racing betting markets. The site offers excellent odds on horse races in the UK, Ireland, Australia, and elsewhere. 

It also runs daily extra places promotions, which see races pay out for up to four places, instead of the standard three you will find at most top Irish horse racing betting sites. Its odds are also extremely generous, with plenty of value to be found here. 

New customers at Novibet can get up to €50 in free bets. 

4. 888 Sport

If you are looking for an operator that provides regular horse racing bonuses, then 888 Sport could be the one for you. Not only does the site offer excellent odds throughout the week, but it also has a weekly horse racing free bet that gives punters who bet over €100 a €10 bonus. 

888 is also one of the best sites for new customers, with the 888 Sport blog offering regular tips, as well as how-to guides and informative posts about the sport in general. If you are a new customer with 888 Sport, you can claim €30 in free bets with your first €10 deposit. 

5. NetBet

NetBet is another operator that has recently emerged as a favourite among Irish horse racing bettors. The site’s ever-growing betting options for Irish and UK racing make it an extremely attractive option, as well as its extensive coverage of worldwide races. 

We have also found that it offers some excellent ante-post betting options, as well as regularly offering generous cash-out options. New customers at NetBet can claim a €20 welcome bonus with their first €20 bet. 

6. Betway

Betway has long been one of the best horse-racing operators available in Ireland. The operator offers daily live-streams, as well as enhanced odds and other betting features. You will also find that it offers some excellent promotions during big events like Cheltenham and the Grand National. 

It is also home to one of the best free horse-racing promotions on the market: 4 to Win. For this, punters must try to guess the correct winners of four races to win their share of a jackpot prize. The site also offers new punters €50 in free bets if their first €10 or more bet loses. 

7. TonyBet

If it’s international racing options you are looking for, TonyBet could well be the site for you. The site offers competitive odds on races from around the world, including France, Japan, Australia, South Africa, and more. Of course, the UK and Irish races take centre stage, with regular price boosts and competitive odds. 

TonyBet has become a favourite of ours in recent years due to its user-friendly website design, excellent customer service, and extensive range of betting features, all of which complement the horse racing options perfectly. When you sign up with TonyBet, you can claim a 100% welcome bonus up to €100 with your first bet. 

8. SBK

Last, but by no means least, we have SBK. SBK has really made a statement over the last couple of years and is one of the most stylish and modern sports betting sites in Ireland. If you are a fan of mobile horse racing betting, then SBK would be our top recommendation, with the site’s effortless design, instantly-updated odds, and regular cash-out options making it perfect for mobile betting. 

SBK also nails its colours to the mast as offering the best horse racing odds in Ireland, allowing punters to compare odds between themselves and their competitors. It also provides one of the most diverse horse-racing betting selections, covering races from around the world and featuring a wide range of markets. New customers at SBK can claim €50 in free bets with a €10 bet. SBK also runs weekly horse racing free bets. 

Which betting site has the most horse racing markets?

After reviewing a wide range of horse racing betting sites, we found that bet365 had the best selection of horse racing markets. The site covered all races from the UK and Ireland, as well as a wide selection of international markets, with a great choice from Australia and New Zealand. It also offered plenty of virtual horse racing options. BetVictor, Betway, and TonyBet also offered an impressive selection. 

What to look for in the best horse racing betting sites

When choosing our list of the best horse racing betting sites in Ireland, we carefully considered each site and highlighted the following factors. 

• Safety: Our biggest priority when recommending horse racing betting sites is the safety and well-being of our customers. We will only recommend websites that are fully regulated and utilise the latest and best encryption and privacy technology available on the market. 
• Horse racing markets: Of course, the number and quality of the horse racing markets available are one of the most important factors when highlighting the best horse racing betting sites in Ireland. We check to see which races and cups are covered, as well as the number of places the bookies pay, and more. 
• Competitive horse racing odds: It’s no use a bookie offering a big selection of markets if they have poor odds. When reviewing the best horse racing betting sites, we compare an operator’s odds with those of other betting sites to determine how much value they offer. 
• Horse racing promotions: Horse racing is one of the most popular sports to bet on in Ireland. As such, many top bookmakers will offer horse-racing-specific bonuses and promotions. This includes free bets, price boosts, and more. 
• Special betting features: As well as bonuses, you will find that many top horse racing betting sites in Ireland offer special betting features. These include things like cash-out, live-streams, and best odds guaranteed. The latter of these is particularly popular among Irish bookmakers. Of course, we also love a spot of mobile betting here at The Sun, so we always check to see if an operator has a mobile app we can download. 

Types of horse racing races: flat vs jump

Horse racing is broadly divided into main categories: flat racing and National Hunt Racing (jump or steeplechase racing). Flat racing, as its name suggests, takes place on a flat course and is primarily a test of speed, while National Hunt racing features obstacles and is often conducted over longer courses, demanding more stamina. Let’s highlight some of the key differences: 

	Flat Racing	National Hunt (Jump) racing
Race layout	Flat, level, courses. Often oval/circular or straight.	Obstacles and jumps of differing heights and types are laid across the course.
Obstacles	None	Hurdles, fences, ditches, water jumps
Time of year	Shorter distances that benefit faster, younger horses	October-April
Distance	Shorter distance that benefit faster, younger horses	Much longer courses that are sometimes miles in length.
Horses used	Typically, younger, more athletic horses	Experienced, mature horses with more stamina. Many advance from flat to National Hunt racing.

Major horse racing events you can bet on in Ireland

Ireland has one of the busiest horse racing calendars in Europe, with many top meets and festivals for punters to bet on. Of course, British racing events are also extremely popular among punters on the Emerald Isle. Let’s break down the most popular ones from both countries: 

Irish Derby

The Irish Derby is the most popular flat race, with tens of thousands of people attending the event. The race takes place at the Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare and is held in late June/early July. The 2025 edition was won by Lambourn, who became the twentieth horse to have won both the Irish Derby and its British counterpart, the Epsom Derby. 

Galway Races

The Galway Races are a week-long festival held at the Ballybrit Racecourse in Galway. The event features a mix of National Hunt and flat races, and it is one of the most highly attended events on the Irish sporting calendar. The busiest days of the meet are Wednesday and Thursday, when the Galway Plate and the Galway Hurdle races take place. 

Punchestown Festival

The Punchestown Festival is seen as the finale of the Irish National Hunt season, pulling in some of the best jockeys and trainers from across Ireland and the UK. The event takes place at the Punchestown racecourse in Kildare and is one of the busiest weeks of the year for Irish bookmakers. 

Irish Grand National 

The Irish Grand National is the most prestigious National Hunt steeplechase in Ireland and is one of the most popular races of the year. The event is held at the Fairyhouse Racecourse in County Meath every Easter Monday, with a prize of €500,000. The 2025 winner was Haiti Couleurs, ridden by Sean Bowen. 

Cheltenham Festival

The Cheltenham Festival is the main event on the National Hunt racing calendar. The event takes place over the course of a week every March and is held in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, in the UK. The event pulls a huge crowd and is one of the highlights of the year for Irish and British horse racing punters. The Cheltenham Gold Cup race is the most popular race of the event. 

Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot is one of the most iconic events in horse racing. The event is the most valuable meet in the UK, offering £10 million in prize money. The five-day event pulls a huge crowd, with the Royal Family being the most famous attendees. The event is seen as a showcase of British high society and fashion. The most prestigious race at Royal Ascot is The Gold Cup, which takes place on Thursday, also known as ‘Ladies Day’, with most attendees putting on their finest clothes and fashion taking centre stage. 

Grand National

The Grand National is arguably the most iconic horse racing event in the world. The race is run at the Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool and attracts a huge crowd of Irish and British horse-racing lovers. The Grand National also attracts non-horse-racing fans, with the race being one of the busiest days of the year for bookmakers. The race is contested every April, with 34 horses looking to write their names in the history books. Irish jockey Patrick Mullins, trained by his father and legendary former jockey Willie Mullins, won the 2025 edition. 

Epsom Derby

The Epsom Derby is another British race steeped in history and tradition. The race is often considered the greatest flat race course in the world, with the event being held at the iconic Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, England. It is also one of the most lucrative races, with the prize fund for the 2025 edition being £1.5m. 

Top horse race courses in Ireland

Ireland is home to some of the best race courses in the world, both for flat and National Hunt racing. The following is just a taster of the kind of fantastic venues and courses you can find up and down the Emerald Isle. 

Curragh Racecourse

Curragh Racecourse is often seen as the premier flat racing venue in Ireland. The course, located in County Kildare, is known for its fast track and exciting uphill finish. The course hosts all five Irish Classic races. 

Leopardstown Racecourse

Leopardstown is a dual-purpose track that is located not far from Dublin. It plays host to the Irish Champions weekend on its flat course, with the Christmas Festival being its most popular jumps event. 

Laytown Racecourse

Laytown is perhaps the most unique racecourse in Ireland, if not Europe, in that it holds its races on a beach. Races are held at Laytown, in County Meath, once a year in September. Due to the nature of the course, the distances are extremely short, with the races being more of a unique tradition than anything else. 

Punchestown Racecourse

Punchestown is seen as the home of Irish Jump Racing. Like Curragh, it is located in County Kildare and plays host to the final week of the National Hunt season every April. It also hosts the Punchestown Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle, two of the most prestigious races in Ireland. 

Ballybrit Racecourse

Ballybrit, or Galway Racecourse, as it is also known, is famous for the Galway Races festival that is held every summer. The mixed flat and National Hunt festival is one of the biggest sporting events during the summer months in Ireland. 

How to bet on horse racing in Ireland

Betting on horse racing in Ireland has never been easier. To get started, just follow these steps: 

• Sign up with one of the Irish sports betting sites listed in this guide. 
• If you are a new customer, be sure to check and claim any available welcome bonuses. 
• Once you are signed up and verified, head to the horse-racing section of the sportsbook. 
• Find the race you want to bet on. In some instances, such as the Grand National or Cheltenham, these may be featured on the homepage. 
• Add your selection to your betting slip. 
• Double-check that you have made the right selection and entered the correct stake. 
• Hit confirm and enjoy the races. 

Popular horse racing bet types

One of the many reasons horse racing is such a hit with Irish bettors is the number of different bet types that can be placed on the sport. Let’s take a closer look: 

• Win – This is the most basic type of bet in horse racing; it is a straightforward bet on which horse wins the race. 
• Each way – An each way bet is a bet on a horse to place as well as a bet on them to win. Placing means finishing in one of a pre-determined number of spots in a race. For example, a bookie might offer places up to fourth place in a certain race. 
• Multiple/Acca – Accas are extremely popular in horse racing. This is when you bet on four or more results to come in. For an acca to win, you need all of the bets on it to come in. 
• Without the favourite: Some bookies offer bets without the favourite. These are bets with the odds adjusted when the favourite is removed. To win this, your horse needs to win the race or finish second to the favourite. 
• Trixie: A Trixie bet involves four separate bets covering three selections in a race. The bet includes three doubles and one treble. You will need two of the selections on the bet to win for the bet to pay out. 
• Lucky 15: This is the next step up from a trixie. It features four selections with 15 individual bets placed. This covers four singles, six doubles, four trebles, and a fourfold. 
• Lucky 31: Next up is the Lucky 31, which features five horses with 31 individual bets. This features five singles, ten doubles, ten trebles, five four-folds, and a five-fold acca. 
• Lucky 63: The Lucky 63 takes things up a level, with six selections being covered over 63 bets. This is made up of six singles, 15 doubles, 20 trebles, 15 four-folds, six five-folds, and one six-fold acca. 
• Yankee: A Yankee sees 11 bets split over four horses. It includes six doubles, four trebles, and a four-fold acca. 
• Canadian Bet: A Canadian Bet, also known as a Super Yankee, sees 26 bets split over five selections. It is made up of ten doubles, ten trebles, five four-folds, and a five-fold acca. 
• Super Heinz Bet: A Super Heinz-Bet is 120 bets on seven horses. This is made up of 21 doubles, 35 trebles, 35 four-folds, 21 five-folds, seven six-folds, and a seven-fold acca. 
• Goliath: Finally, we have the Goliath, which is made up of a whopping 247 bets for eight horses. This features 28 doubles, 56 trebles, 70 four-folds, 56 five-folds, 28 six-folds, 8 seven-folds, and 1 eight-fold accumulator. 

Horse racing betting offers and promotions

Several popular bonuses and promotions are used more exclusively in horse racing than in any other sport. We break them down below: 

• Extra places: This is when bookies will offer additional places they will pay out for on an each-way bet. For example, an operator may traditionally pay for three places, but as part of the promotion, they will pay for four places. 
• Odds boosts: Many of the top horse racing betting sites listed in this guide offer regular odds boosts. This is when a bookie increases the odds of a horse winning. For example, a horse might be boosted from 5/1 to 6/1. 
• Best odds guaranteed: This is a widely used promotion by top Irish betting sites. If you take a price on a horse, and the starting price is higher, the bookmaker will pay out at the higher starting price. For example, if you back a horse at 2/1 and then its price changes to 3/1 and it wins, you will be paid out at 3/1. 
• No-runner no-bet: These promotions are applied specifically to Ante-Post bets. When one of these is active, your bet will automatically be cancelled and refunded if your selected horse does not run for whatever reason. 
• Money-back: These promos ensure that punters get their stake back either as a refund or as a bonus if their horses lose in certain circumstances. For example, you might receive a refund if your horse falls or finishes in the top three. 
• Ante-post betting: This is not strictly a promotion in the same way as the other features on this list. Instead, it is a type of bet that is placed days, weeks, or even months before a race takes place and official odds are offered. 

Special features for betting on horse racing

As bookies have become more competitive over the years, so have the features that they offer. Due to the popularity of horse racing, the sport is placed front and centre of many of their marketing campaigns and feature launches. The following are some of the most common special features you will encounter for betting on horse racing in Ireland. 

• Accumulator (ACCA) bets: Accumulator bets, affectionately known by punters as accas, are bets featuring four or more selections. For an acca to win, you need all of your selections to win. These are especially popular during big events like the Cheltenham Festival. 
• In-play betting: Live betting is an essential part of the modern sports betting experience. While flat races tend to be over quickly, making placing an in-play bet quite difficult, National Hunt races will see incredibly quick changes in the odds and present a great opportunity for you to do some in-play betting, especially if your horse falls early or drops behind. 
• Cash out: The cash-out option has become ubiquitous at top online betting sites in Ireland. This allows punters to exit a bet early depending on how it is playing out. If your bet is winning, you are likely to be offered a portion of your potential winnings to cash out, while if it is losing, you might be lucky enough to get offered some of your stake back. 
• Live streaming: There is nothing more exciting than watching a bet unfold in real-time. Most of the top Irish horse racing sites offer live streams of races throughout the day. 
• Enhanced odds: Enhanced odds do as they say on the tin, providing punters with better prices for certain selections. For example, a horse might be enhanced from 2/1 to 3/1. 

How do odds work at horse racing betting sites?

If you are new to the world of horse racing betting and betting in general, then understanding the type of odds commonly used by bookmakers, such as fractional odds, can appear daunting. However, once you understand the basics, calculating it is not too difficult. 

The easiest way to understand fractional odds is to see the number on the right as what you will win, and the number on the left as your stake. So, if a horse is 5/1, you will make a €5 profit for every €1 you bet. So if you bet €5, you would win €25. 

If you find this system too challenging, you can adjust your settings and use decimal betting, which has become increasingly popular. In this instance, the number displayed is the total amount you will get back (profit+your stake) for every one unit you stake. So if a bet is displayed as 2.0, then you will get €2 if you bet €1, which is a €1 profit and your €1 stake back. If this were displayed as a fractional bet, it would be 1/1. 

How to analyse a horse before betting

The world of horse racing betting is full of lingo and phrases that might sound confusing to newcomers. However, once you begin to get involved, you will discover that it is not as complicated as it first appeared. The following are some of the key things a beginner should consider when betting on horse racing in Ireland. 

• Recent form: A horse’s recent form is a crucial aspect when weighing up your options. This will factor in a number of elements, including their recent races, as well as their history on certain courses and in certain conditions. You should always avoid betting on horses that are out of form. 
• Jockey & trainer: What kind of record do the jockey and trainer have working together? How experienced and successful are they? Does the jockey have a claim? All of these things should be considered when choosing a horse to bet on. 
• Ground condition (The Going): Check the conditions of the ground and see how horses have performed in those conditions before. This can be a significant factor and is one that many inexperienced horse bettors overlook. 
• Weight: A few pounds can make a massive difference when it comes to horse racing, so you should always pay attention to this. Observing how a horse has performed at different weights and reviewing the opposition’s results, especially in handicapped racing, is essential. 
• Race class: Race classes are used to determine the ability of the horses, with higher classes featuring better, more experienced horses than lower classes. You should make sure you understand this if a horse is stepping up a class or is dropping down one. 
• Horse age: As well as the class and weight, you should also check the horse’s age. Older, more mature horses tend to be more consistent and deliver over longer courses, while younger horses, while more volatile, can be better on flat races. 
• The odds: The biggest factor for most punters when weighing up whether they want to bet on a horse or not is the odds. Does the price represent value? What are the places’ payouts? Can you find better odds elsewhere? All of this should be considered when weighing up whether or not you want to place a bet. 

Top Irish jockeys and trainers to follow

Ireland has a fine history of producing some of the best jockeys and trainers in horse racing. Let’s take a look at some of the big names to pay attention to in 2025. 

Irish Jockeys

Paul Townsend

Paul Townsend is the reigning Irish National Hunt champion and is one of Willie Mullins’ most reliable riders. He is famous for his strong, powerful finishes and has performed consistently well at big festivals, winning Mullins his first Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2019 before making it back-to-back wins in 2020. 

Jack Kennedy

Another recent Gold Cup winner to come from Ireland is Jack Kennedy, who won the iconic cup for the first time in 2021. He typically rides for Gordon Elliott and is one of the most decorated National Hunt jockeys currently riding from Ireland. 

Patrick Mullins

Paddy Mullins grabbed headlines this year when he rode Nick Rockett to victory in the 2025 Grand National. The son of Willie Mullins, he is one of the most accomplished amateur jockeys in National Hunt history and is also a multiple-time Cheltenham Festival winner. 

Dylan Browne McMonagle

22-year-old Dylan Browne McMonagle is one of the fastest-rising jockeys in Ireland. He currently competes in flat races and has secured multiple Group 1 victories. He is highly touted as a name to watch. 

Irish Trainers 

Willie Mullins

Willie Mullins is undoubtedly the king of Irish National Hunt racing. He secured his 19th Champion Trainer title this year, and his yard has produced some of the best riding talent Ireland has ever seen. He has seen winners at several major festivals, including the aforementioned Paul Townsend and Jack Kennedy in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, and Patrick Mullins, his son, at this year’s Grand National. 

Gordon Elliott

Gordon Elliott and Willie Mullins have long competed for the title of the best trainer in Ireland, with Elliott’s yard often producing top-quality talent. His jockeys have excelled in handicap races, and while he has been quieter in the last couple of years, he has seen plenty of success over the years, winning his first Grand National at 29. 

Aidan O’Brien

When it comes to flat racing, few can compete with Aidan O’Brien. The 55-year-old won major trophies around the world and has trained many of the 21st Century’s best jockeys and horses. 

Horse racing betting tips for beginners

If you are new to the world of horse racing betting, then the following are some excellent beginner’s tips to help you get started. 

Study the form 

Understanding form is crucial to success in horse racing betting. ‘The form’ in racing is a very broad term that includes everything from the form of the trainers and the horses to their past history on a course and in certain conditions. Horse racing is generally a sport that rewards research; the more knowledge you have, the better you are likely to do. 

Check tips 

Horse racing tipsters are everywhere, and knowing the best ones to follow can be tricky. We recommend doing your own research and then supporting them with advice from the experts. The more you read, the more you will find experts and tipsters that you like to follow. Of course, these should always be a guide, and you should never just repeat someone’s bets blindly without doing your own research. 

Compare odds

While we all have some sports betting sites we prefer over others, there is no room for loyalty when it comes to horse racing betting. The top bookmakers compete with one another when it comes to horse racing, which means punters shop around to ensure they are getting the best odds. We recommend using odds comparison tools to ensure you are getting the best value bets available. 

Search for the best each-way places 

Likewise, you should also check to see how many places each bookie is paying out at. This is especially relevant during big races like the Grand National, where bookies will pay out a much higher number of places on each-way bets than usual. 

Utilise bonuses and promotions 

Horse racing bonuses are extremely common on top sports betting sites, so you would be foolish not to take advantage of the ones that fit your needs. Bonuses can be an excellent way of boosting your online bookmaker account and of enhancing your overall sports betting experience. 

Never gamble more than you can afford to lose 

Of course, you should always make sure you gamble responsibly. You should never rely on horse racing money for financial income and should always set a budget. All of the bookmakers listed in this guide offer responsible gambling tools and services, including the ability to set spending and betting-time limits on your account. 

Q&A about horse racing betting sites in Ireland

This article features a lot of information to digest for newcomers to the world of Irish horse racing betting. If you still have some questions, these FAQs should help clear things up. 

1. What are the best horse racing online betting sites? 

There are many excellent horse racing online betting sites available in Ireland. In our opinion, bet365, BetVictor, SBK and Betway are among the best. 

2. How to get into horse racing betting?

If you want to get into horse racing betting, we would advise studying up on the sport and watching it a lot before betting on it. Learn how the sport works, pick some jockeys and trainers to watch, and really get to know how things work before placing a bet. 

3. Can I watch live horse racing online?

Yes. Most of the top horse racing betting sites in Ireland will offer live streams of horse racing events from around the world. 

4. Can I bet on horse races from my phone?

Yes. You can bet on horse races using your smartphones or tablets. Many top betting sites will also offer mobile apps. 

5. What happens if a horse is withdrawn?

In most instances, when a horse is withdrawn from a race, a player’s stake will be refunded. We do advise checking with individual bookmakers to see their policies. 

Responsible gambling

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chase their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
• Problem gambling – problemgambling.ie
• Gamble Aware – gambleaware.org

Help with gambling addiction

If you have a problem with gambling, or you know someone who does, help is out there. Extern Problem Gambling is the leading provider of information, treatment, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling harms across Ireland.

FLIGHTS this summer are set to experience the worst delays ever as countries across Europe battle air traffic control strikes, wildfires and high demand.

The delays are expected across nine countries in Europe including France, Germany, Greece and Spain.

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Flight delays are expected across nine countries in Europe the summer, including France, Germany, Greece and Spain[/caption]

EU officials told the Financial Times that the air traffic control system was operating at capacity due to staff shortages and increased demand following the Covid-19 pandemic.

They added that last year was the worst summer yet for delays and cancellations and “this year will be very similar”.

Approximately 37,000 flights occur in Europe on the busiest days of the season – but this is the limit of what air traffic controllers can currently manage.

Strikes, such as those recently in France, have also made the situation worse.

Eurocontrol – the organisation responsible for air traffic control in Europe – said: “Last week was strongly impacted by air traffic control (ATC) industrial action between 2-5 July 2025, leading to severe disruption for passengers, airlines and airports.”

In total, there were 3,343 fewer flights to/from French airports than compared to the previous week – all of which were cancelled due to the strike.

Europe currently also has a reduced airspace due to the war in Ukraine.

The EU transport commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas explained that this, paired with the shortage of controllers, “threatens to overburden the air network and disappoint passengers”.

As a result, he has claimed that airports are now more congested and “Europe cannot afford chaos in the skies”.

With a summer of further disruptions expected, The Sun’s head of travel Lisa Minot has advised what you should do if travelling this summer.

She said: “Whatever happens if it is [your flight] delayed or cancelled for reasons outside of the the airlines control, then unfortunately there is no compensation due.

“But the airline does have a duty of care to look after you.

“If your flight is cancelled and it is the airline’s fault … then you could be due compensation.

“It could be anything up to £520.”

Last month Ryanair also said that this summer would be the worst summer for flight delays and cancellations.

The airline revealed the worst air traffic control centres (ATCs) for delays and this included the UK as the fifth worst.

Ryanair said that the European Commission and European governments “have taken no action to fix their shoddy ATC services and ATC delays will now be even worse in summer 2025”.

Micheal O’Leary, the airline’s CEO, also said that if staff shortages and ATC issues are not sorted, there will be “record ATC flight delays this summer”.

Getty

Approximately 37,000 flights occur in Europe on the busiest days of the season – but this is the limit of what air traffic controllers can currently manage[/caption]

The airline’s ‘League of Delays’ revealed that France and Spain have been the most impacted so far this year, with 15,634 and 11,576 flights delayed respectively.

The airline has also claimed that 90 per cent of their flight cancellations during the French ATC strikes, could have been avoided if overflights over France were allowed to take place.

Many airlines are now calling on Brussels to complete the ‘Single European Sky‘ project which would allow airlines to fly the most direct route possible within the EU.

This would mean that airlines would not follow diversions via several points, but instead fly straight to a destination.

Last year, air traffic was up by five per cent compared to 2023, with over a third of flights delayed by more than 15minutes on arrival, according to Eurocontrol.

Overall, delays averaged around 21.4minutes per flight.

A budget airline is also set to launch new flights from the UK to an affordable Asian city.

Plus, long-haul flights from the UK are about to take much longer – find out why.

EPA

Strikes, such as those recently in France, have also made the situation worse[/caption]

TO the commuters and holidaymakers who use it, the road which links London to Edinburgh looks like any other carriageway.

Yet look closer and you’ll find that the A1 is a hotbed for sex and debauchery, a place where once deserted Little Chef restaurants now cater for randy Brits.

Paul Tonge

Becky is a regular visitor to the Pulse & Cocktails adult store near Grantham[/caption]

While few would describe a road as sexy, X-rated adult stores selling lingerie, handcuffs and sex toys sit on the A1 carriageway which has earned itself a reputation for the ‘sex corridor of Britain’.

Pulse and Cocktails own two of three shops which lie on this 410-mile stretch of tarmac and hundreds of people drop in to their stores everyday.

It was when the popular Little Chef restaurants went into administration back in 2007 that brother and sister Davy Boothy and Claire Chapman saw an opportunity in the X-rated market.

Becky, 46, is a swinger and frequent shopper at their store on the A1 southbound at Grantham, Lincs, and has spent thousands there with husband Jon, 43.

“Swinging isn’t the same without sex toys and underwear,” she insists. “And when it comes to lingerie, the smaller the better.

“We’ve had stacks of fun with stuff from the A1 shop, too many good nights to mention.”

KINKY SUPPLIES

Paul Tonge

Store manager Michaela Snell, 48, has been working full-time at Pulse and Cocktails for 19 years[/caption]

Becky buys in bulk and has shopped at the Grantham store for ten years. She and Jon often stop off for supplies when they’re en route to swinging clubs.

She says: “ The first time I called in was when we were driving to a swingers’ club.

“I’ve easily spent thousands in their stores. I buy items to bulk up our collection of toys and outfits for our trips to swingers’ clubs. I love their glow in the dark vibrators, they’re my favourite.

“I’ve had many compliments on my outfits by both men and women we meet.

“And I much prefer handling what I’m going to buy than getting it online – particularly the vibrators as you can kind of test them out in a way and feel how intense they’re going to be.”

She adds: “My go-to toy for a swinging night is a bullet vibrator.

“It’s small, easy to carry and can be used by men or women. It’s really versatile. I’ve had a lot of fun swinging nights using that.”

And Pulse and Cocktails certainly manages to please because business is booming.

Further north, their sister store lies on the A1 near Pontefract in West Yorks, which falls on the 160-mile stretch of road between Leeds and London.

Company director Davy says many couples plan trips up and down the country just to include a stop at one of their stores.

He explains: “For some couples, visiting our A1 stores has become a fun and flirty ritual that sets the tone for a weekend of adventure. It adds a bit of sexy, light-hearted fun to the trip.

“We’ve created a welcoming space in our stores where curiosity is encouraged and there’s no judgement.”

Jon comes to the stores with me – he’s often the one who chooses my lingerie outfits. He loves short and sexy dresses.

Serial swinger Becky

And when it comes to adult pleasure, there is no north and south divide either.

Travel further down the country and you’ll find Happy Lovers A1, an independently-owned adult entertainment store. It sits on the A1 in Bedford, remarkably close to Vanilla Alternative, a swingers club which boasts a hot tub and different ‘play areas’ including a dungeon.

Once a ‘Happy Eater’ family diner, Happy Lovers was the first sex store to open its doors on the ‘sex corridor’ over two decades ago.

Paul Tonge

Serial swinger Becky has shopped at Pulse and Cocktails in Grantham for ten years and has spent thousands of pounds there since[/caption]

Paul Tonge

The adult store is packed full of lingerie and sex toys[/caption]

Coincidentally, Becky once worked at the Little Chef restaurant which later became the Pulse and Cocktails Grantham store and her all-time favourite sex shop.

“I was a server in a horrid uniform for two years at the Little Chef on the A1 when I was 16,” she says.

“I never would have guessed I would be shopping at the same place for sexy underwear decades later.”

Becky and Jon had a monogamous relationship initially, but three years into their 20-year marriage he asked for a threesome instead of a gift at Christmas, and she decided to oblige.

Since then they have become a big part of the swinging community. They visit clubs a couple of times a month and her favourite toy by far is Pulse and Cocktails’ new alien range of dildos which cost around £70 – and even glow in the dark.

For some couples, visiting our A1 stores has become a fun and flirty ritual that sets the tone for a weekend of adventure.

Company director Davy Boothby

Becky, a model and actress who lives with Jon, a photographer, in Derby, and has two grown-up children, says: “Some of the toys I’ve bought from there we’ve used with other couples in clubs who have then gone on to buy them.

“I shop online sometimes but I still like to go into a store if I want to try something on.

“The great thing about the store is that it’s quite discreet and they give people a bit of privacy.

“It isn’t like popping into an Ann Summers store in the city centre where you walk out with a black bag with a pink bunny on it and everyone knows where you’ve been.

“Jon comes to the stores with me – he’s often the one who chooses my lingerie outfits. He loves short and sexy dresses and nice, vibrant colours.”

SEXY LINGERIE

Privacy might just be what some of the customers expect because the shops sell a wide selection of outrageous products.

Shelves are stocked with sex dolls costing almost £1,500 and ‘multi-angled sex machines’ for £475 – not the sort of items you could pick up from your local Ann Summers.

They sell sex toys of every shape and size – a vibrating power rabbit would set you back £149 – and horny drivers shopping on a budget can pick up their cheapest ‘toy’ for £9.95.

As they walk into the store, customers are greeted by an array of sexy lingerie before they head further into the shop where the sex toys are located.

A full-sized mannequin positioned on her knees and wearing bondage gear sits close to the till.

PLEASURE FROM AFAR

Store manager Michaela Snell, 48, has been working full-time at Pulse and Cocktails for 19 years and says the clientele has changed significantly over the years.

She got the job after seeing an advert in her local paper.

She says: “It used to be a lot of men but now we get couples and women on their own. You really do see a whole range in here – our oldest customer is 89.

“He drives in about once a month and exchanges his DVDs that he watches with his wife. We give him a cuppa and a chair.

“That’s what I love about this job and these stores – there’s always a constant flow of customers but it’s never so busy you can’t talk to them and get to know about what’s going on in their lives.

“We have couples looking to spice up their relationship, single women looking for something for themselves or even people who have medical issues – one man has a prostate problem and our pumps are better than the NHS ones, apparently.

“I really like speaking to people who come for the first time and helping them work out what they want.”

pulseandcocktails.co.uk

Lubricants, aphrodisiacs and stockings and hosiery are the best sellers[/caption]

No two days are the same for Michaela.

The shop welcomes about 350 customers a week and she says lubricants, aphrodisiacs and stockings and hosiery are the best sellers.

The most popular toys cost from £45 and are operated via a phone app meaning couples can pleasure each other from afar.

And it comes with the territory that some customers expect much more than just toys or sexy underwear.

Michaela says: “We do often get lorry drivers asking if we provide ‘extra’ services. That does happen a couple of times a week.

“I’ve been asked on the very odd occasion if we sell the most bizarre sorts of porn DVDs.

“I just tell everyone as politely as I can that we don’t and off they go.”

People assume the shop is going to be dark and dingy but it’s not – it’s light and airy and nice to be in.

Michaela

Michaela says there’s a misconception about what lies behind the Pulse and Cocktails signage and customers are surprised to find that it isn’t ‘seedy’ at all.

She says: “People assume the shop is going to be dark and dingy but it’s not – it’s light and airy and nice to be in.

“It’s really relaxed and people are more relaxed now. The film 50 Shades of Grey came out years ago and really changed the game and it’s still evolving – people are not as embarrassed anymore, they’re much more laid back.”

Davy agrees and believes there’s been a definite shift in British attitudes towards sex too.

He says: “We’re seeing more openness, especially in the younger generations. People are becoming more comfortable talking about sex, pleasure and wellness.

“That’s reflected in what they buy too. There’s more interest in couples’ toys, products for self-care and even items like lubricants and lingerie that were once seen as taboo.”

Whether you’re driving on the A1 for business or pleasure this weekend, this is a road that certainly knows how to please.

©Andrew McCaren

Pulse and Cocktails on the A1 near Pontefract in West Yorkshire is Grantham’s sister store[/caption]

�Andrew McCaren

Happy Lovers is an independently owned adult shop which is located on the A1, a road which has been dubbed the sex corridor of the UK[/caption]

GRANGE Hill icon Lee Macdonald has revealed he broke down in tears after doctors diagnosed him with skin cancer.

The 57-year-old, who is best-known for playing Zammo McGuire in the BBC drama series, first noticed a black mark on his face in 2023 but was given the all clear.

Shutterstock Editorial

Actor Lee Macdonald has revealed he broke down in tears after a cancer scare[/caption]

BBC

The actor is best-known for his role on Grange Hill[/caption]

However, he was recently diagnosed with a pre-cancerous spot called keratosis after noticing another mark on his face, and will require surgery to have it removed in the next few weeks.

Opening up about the moment he found out the spot was cancerous, Lee told MailOnline: “About two years ago I had a little black mark in my eye, and it wouldn’t go away.

“And then it started weeping, and it concerned me. But being a bloke you leave it and leave it there. You just don’t bother.

“So I went to the doctors, and he said: ‘It looks like it’s a BCC.’ I said ‘What’s a BC?’, he said ‘It looks like cancer.’ He said ‘but we need to get you a biopsy to confirm.’

“And I remember going down and sitting in the car with my friend Andy, and I cried for about an hour. It wasn’t confirmed at that time, but just the word cancer, that really scared me.”

After receiving results of the biopsy, Lee was told it wasn’t cancerous but it was a “real eye opener” for him.

Two years later, Lee recently found another mark on his face and this time was told by doctors that it’s pre-cancerous and has been caused by sun damage.

The actor has an appointment with the dermatologist to get it removed, but is worried as he’s had two scares in a short space of time.

After leaving Grange Hill, Lee used sunbeds to feel more confident, but regrets using them following his diagnosis.

He explained: “Without a shadow of a doubt, if I look back now, obviously, because of my complaints, I wish I’d never, ever gone near them if I knew now what I knew, then I would not have touched them. I would not not go near them.”

Interestingly, Lee’s dad had skin cancer previously which has left him feeling “concerned”.

The BBC star portrayed Zammo on the hit children’s drama series from 1982 to 1987 and was involved in huge storylines including heroin addiction.

As well as Grange Hill, Lee has also made appearances in The Bill and mostly recently in EastEnders as character Terry.

After leaving the show that turned him into a household name, the child actor planned to turn his boxing hobby into a career but his dream was ended after ended up in a serious car accident.

At just 21, he was left with severe head injuries and his life was changed forever.

Shutterstock Editorial

Lee has shared his biggest regret after finding marks on his face[/caption]

FOOTBALL superagent Kia Joorabchian will be praying for good news on his new £2million horse – after he suffered a ‘freak accident’ just minutes before the big race.

Joorabchian, who looked after players such as Carlos Tevez and Willian, splashed the huge sum on Ghostwriter at last month’s sales.

He was even money favourite for the Princess Of Wales’s Stakes at Newmarket until disaster struck.

It meant Ghostwriter was dramatically pulled from the £125,000 Group 2 on the advice of the racecourse vets.

The horse was seen limping back to his box after rearing in his box.

Trainer Clive Cox said: “It was a freak accident. We were just putting the saddle on and he reared up.

“He is clearly very lame and we won’t take part on the back of that.

“We’re very sorry for everyone and the owners – but his health is the priority.

“He was limping and we need to take care of him.”

More to follow.

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Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
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• Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

THERE are many things I’ll gladly leave the country for – exploring a new city, chasing the sun, discovering new food – but getting my nails done has never been one of them.

Nevertheless, last month, I packed my bag and flew to Ibiza for that very reason. 

@keelycooper_

We met Rita Ora’s nail tech, Keely Cooper[/caption]

But this wasn’t for just any nail appointment, as I was meeting Keely Cooper – AKA nail tech to Rita Ora, Charlotte Tilbury and Peggy Gou. 

Having started her career at a nail salon in Aberdeen, she is now a nail artist working in hidden villas, on yachts, and on photo shoots in Ibiza – and she has built up a star-studded client list of some of the world’s most fashionable women. 

In typical Keely fashion, we met in Ocean Drive Talamanca, a stylish pad on the south-east of the island, where she arrived carrying more nail polish shades than you’ll find in most salons – “I’ve got more,” she told me.

After trimming, buffing and cutting my nails, she curated a colour palette tailored to me, including lavender purple, mint green, and sunshine yellow, as well as the perfect base shade to flatter my skin tone. 

KEELY COOPER

The nail tech has a unique style[/caption]

After chatting through some of my ideas, and drawing inspiration from a previous design, she dotted, swirled, and painted pastel-coloured motifs on to my nails, including rainbows, evil eyes, and flowers.

As she painted, she told me about her career journey, her coolest appointments, and predictions for the future – here’s everything I learned. 

How did you become a nail artist, and what led you to Ibiza?

It all started after I left school, and went to art college in Aberdeen.

Despite wanting to be an artist my whole life, I realised that I needed to make money – at this stage, nail art was becoming cool, so I decided to sign up for some beauty courses, then my husband and I opened a nail bar beauty salon.

We had a few girls who worked for us who were ex-art school students, so we had quite an arty vibe going on. 

I loved the salon, but I wasn’t feeling fulfilled – I was working all the time to come out to Ibiza three or four times a year.

Then, when Covid happened and we had to shut the salon, I did some soul-searching and decided to make the move to Ibiza – I already knew people here, so it was a good way to make new contacts and I started to build up a list of clients.

When I first moved to Ibiza, a lot of my clients weren’t asking for nail art – instead, they wanted plain “clean-girl” nails, or just plain red.

I’ve always been into nail art, so I did wonder if I’d made the right decision to move here – I wondered if it was the wrong thing for me, artistically.

But as word got out about what I could offer, people started to experiment more and now, most of my clients ask for some form of nail art.

I did a girl’s nails for her birthday a few weeks ago, and at that party, people saw her nails, which has led to me getting five new clients.

I always say you’re only as good as your last set of nails, and every client is important – it doesn’t matter who they are or what their status is – you should be doing your best work for everybody. 

Where are some of the coolest places your job has led you?

I often work from my studio in Santa Gertrudis, as well as on yachts, boats, and in villas all over the island.

I definitely see a lot of amazing houses, boats, and hidden villas on mountain country roads that I would never normally see day-to-day.

Every time I go to an amazing villa, I can’t imagine I’ll ever top it, but then I go to another one that I didn’t even know existed! It’s a great way to see the island.

What’s the secret to your creative process, from the idea to the finished look?

When it’s for someone I’ve never worked with before, I have to gauge how much nail art they want and what they’re going to be comfortable with.

Chatting with the client and finding out about them while I’m prepping the nails is an important part of the process, where I learn about what ideas they have, what they’re going to be wearing, where they’re travelling to next, and what interests them creatively.

After all, they are the person who will wear the nails for the next three to four weeks, so it has to be a joint effort. 

Then, it’s a mixture of looking at pictures from my own Instagram, as well as any other photos they’ve saved, and looking at colours that suit their skin tone, work with what they’ll be wearing, and the climate they’re going to be in.

Usually, I decide that a certain colour will work, and start off with a couple of nails, then decide what other colours will match.

If I do something on one nail and a client says: “Wow, I love that,” then I’ll explore how we can enhance it and take it on to another nail. It’s all about keeping it balanced – sometimes a design won’t be quite right, but then adding a tiny speck of gold lifts it and looks amazing. 

What is the most complex or favourite set of nails you’ve ever done?

The longest I’ve spent on a set of nails was four hours – I love the mix and match trend, where there are clashing colours and all the nails are different.

I’m a fan of nail jewellery, too, where I make nails look like they’re wearing jewels by creating little charms out of gel and chrome, and mixing them together to look like pieces of gold – it’s a lovely way to get into nail art, as it’s not too colourful and can even be done on a plain soap nail background.

What is it like seeing your designs come to life on a photo shoot or the red carpet? 

I follow the same process as usual, but sometimes it can be more restricted with fashion photo shoots – especially if it is for a very big campaign, as they’ll usually want something quite plain, to avoid drawing attention away from the clothes.

If it’s a red carpet event, you have to take into consideration what people will be wearing and how far they want to go with their nail designs.

When I do eventually see the photos from a shoot or event, I think: “That’s my little piece that everyone can see,” which makes me feel proud and happy that I got it right.

Being on a shoot can be nerve-wracking because there’s so much pressure to make sure everyone likes what you’ve done – I do still get a little nervous, but I think it’s good to feel that way as it drives you to do your best work.

What nail trends are huge right now?

Nail art is a great way to express your fashion, tastes, creativity and the things you like – people sometimes even put political views on their nails or trending topics, as it’s an easy and impermanent way to show your creative side.

However, there is still a big call for classic, clean “soap nails” as they’re fresh and match with everything. People who do a lot of Instagram posting like to keep their nails plain – if they’re posting a lot of reels or photos, always keeping their nails plain stops people working out when the content was taken. 

What nail products do you love?

I love The Gelbottle Inc, especially the BIAB formula, as well as the new allergy-focused HEMA-free version and the range of colours is great, and so highly pigmented.

I try to go for non-toxic brands, and love a few of the South Korean formulas, including Ice Gel, which has an incredible cat eye gel formula with a great finish.

NUXE

Keeping your mani hydrated is key[/caption]

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil for Face, Body and Hair, £22

I’ve been using the Navy tools for a while now, and especially love the Cuticle Nippers, £58.

For moisturisers, exfoliators and cuticle oils I mix it up a bit, but I’m currently using Nuxe, including Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, £22.

saent

This face oil can be applied to the hands, too[/caption]

Saent Face Oil, £75

I’ve also been using Saent, a rich, gorgeous face oil that’s also lovely for the hands – I like to use products that are as clean and organic as possible because when you’re living on an island and going into the sea, you don’t want to use anything that’s going to harm the environment. 

A POPULAR portable power bank maker has recalled its products and halted operations.

The recall by Romoss Technology, which is based in Shenzhen, China, comes just weeks after the country banned uncertified power banks on aircraft.

Romoss has suspended production for six months after it was caught in a scandal over safety issues, according to Chinese media reports.

The company has also recalled nearly 490,000 power banks from three models made between June 2023 and July 2024.

Overheating risks

It follows an investigation which found metal debris in their battery cells posed overheating risks.

Romoss notified employees it was suspending operations from July 1 and reportedly gave them a furlough of a monthly salary – equal to 80 per cent of Shenzhen’s minimum wage.

The manufacturer has over 690 employees “but only a small group involved in the recall incident is expected to continue working to ensure basic operations”, a staff member told Yicai Global.

The company has taken its e-commerce shops offline.

It has also removed products listed on leading e-commerce platforms such as Temu.

China’s aviation regulator last month banned passengers from carrying power banks without Chinese safety certification markings or those recently recalled by manufacturers.

The move, applicable to anyone boarding a flight in China, followed a series of global incidents involving lithium battery products overheating on planes.

This included power banks.

The Civil Aviation Administration said power banks must clearly have the “3C”, or China Compulsory Certification, marking to be allowed on aircraft.

The certification is mandatory for products that may impact health, safety and environmental protection.

On June 10, according to local media, Chinese authorities had temporarily suspended Apex Wuxi’s 3C certification after it reportedly altered separator materials in battery cells.

Apex Wuxi is one of China’s leading producers of core power bank parts, which it supplies to Romoss and its rival Anker Innovations.

The suspension prompted Romoss and Anker to recall a combined 1.2 million power bank units because of combustion risks.

Lithium batteries in devices such as laptops, mobile phones, electronic cigarettes, and power banks can produce smoke, fire or extreme heat when manufacturing faults or damage cause them to short-circuit.

Growing concern

They are a growing concern for aviation safety as passengers carry more battery-powered items on flights.

Last year, the US Federal Aviation Administration recorded three incidents of lithium batteries overheating on planes every two weeks globally compared to just under one a week in 2018.

In January this year, South Korea said that a spare power bank was the possible cause of a fire that had engulfed a Busan Air flight to Hong Kong.

Since that incident, airlines globally have been tightening power bank rules.

Aviation rules generally say power banks should be carried in cabin baggage but increasingly airlines are banning their use on board and say they must be kept within view to spot any problems.

The Sun has contacted Romoss Technology for comment.

NINE players were left wiped out on The 1% Club’s final big-money question and missed out on the chance to bag a share of £100,000.

A tricky letters sequence question had 11 players vying for the jackpot.

ITV

This was the question that players were hoping to win big on[/caption]

ITV

Lee quizzed the contestants if they could get it right[/caption]

A large number of players had been successful in making it through to the final question after proving that they more than knew their stuff when it came to answering the tough puzzles.

But their confidence was short-lived when nine of them failed to correctly answer the all-important final question.

Host Lee Mack read aloud the question and confirmed that the prize pot stood at a cool £95,000.

It meant the players were able to split it 11 ways should they get it correct.

Lee said to them: “What letter replaces the question mark in this sequence?”

The following letters were then presented to the players: “YYHLY?YTRRRR”.

30 seconds were then whacked on the clock as they attempted to arrive at the right answer.

With time up, Lee then asked each of the players to confirm which letter they had picked.

The answers they gave, were: “H, T, E, T, R, H, N, E, L, Y, T.”

It left Lee remarking: “There’s quite a lot of different answers there so someone might win big tonight.”

Lee then confirmed that the correct answer was “E” and revealed that the sequence was the last letter of the 12 months of the year.

As such, the two players who answered correct won a share of the £95,000 pot.

Joe Clark and Liz Casey each walked away with £47,500 having beaten off the competition.

ITV

Liz was one of the players to get it correct[/caption]

ITV

Joe also won big[/caption]

CORONATION Street has signed up a Brookside legend for a new role.

The ITV soap will feature a long-term regular from the defunct Channel 4 soap as part of a storyline later this year.

Channel 4

Brookside star Sarah White has signed up for a short stint in Coronation Street[/caption]

ITV

Sarah’s character will try to mediate between Theo and Danielle[/caption]

Actress Sarah White played Bev Dixon for a decade on Brookside until it was axed in 2003.

And now The Sun can exclusively reveal she has signed up for a brief stint on the cobbles.

A source said: “Sarah will be playing a mediator as part of Theo Silverton’s acrimonious divorce from wife Danielle.

“She’s filming now and will be seen on screen later this year.”

Sarah has also appeared in Doctors and critically-acclaimed film God’s Own Country since leaving Brookside.

She will join the storyline alongside former Emmerdale star Natalie Anderson who plays Danielle in the soap.

“I’m loving my time here at Coronation Street, it’s fantastic,” she said recently.

“There’s a real nostalgia with Coronation Street, some of the most incredible actors have tread the cobbles so for me personally it’s a huge honour to follow those footsteps and be a tiny part of its history. 

“I’m really enjoying myself, I’ve got some great friends here and it’s just a joy. To be part of that soap legacy, even a teeny part, is such an honour when you’ve grown up with it. 

“Back in the day Raquel and Curly, Jack and Vera, Deirdre/Ken and Mike were all these amazing icons that many of us working in the genre today really looked up to as we set out.”

Speaking about her character, she said: “Danielle is a very interesting character, she’s very layered, you never really know what you’re going to get, you think she’s going to be one thing then she turns out to be another, which is really fun to play. 

“It’s great for me to play something different, going into all those different facets of her has been really exciting.”