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OLD Fashioned Sam’s is open mere months and is already a firm favourite with Ireland’s glitterati as well as celebs, with stars like Ellie Goulding and Steve Buscemi visiting. 

The venue isn’t just a restaurant or bar – it’s a three-storey vibe.

Whether you’re sipping cocktails in the courtyard, tucking into delicious fare at Laura’s, or pretending you’re in the roaring twenties downstairs in the parlour, this place has it all. 

So, let’s start at the top. Laura’s restaurant is the perfect spot for a long lunch or a date night to remember. 

Impossibly chic and stylish, Laura’s isn’t just a pretty face; it’s serving up dishes that are worth shouting about.

For starters you can feast on offerings like house wings – divine – fresh and spicy grilled gambas, or fresh and zingy tuna tartare amongst other treats.

For main course, you can choose from pan-fried halibut, Wagyu beef burger, duck breast or a 10oz fillet steak, a premium cut cooked to perfection.

The short rib simply fell off the bone and was delicious accompanied with burnt onion mash, Malbec jus, glazed rainbow carrots topped off with cashew and peanut chilli crunch.

For veggies the pulled mushroom pita is proof that plant-based doesn’t mean boring. 

SIP SIP HOORAY

Head downstairs to Sam’s front bar and sun terrace.

The cocktail bar spills into the city’s biggest heated courtyard, complete with retractable roof.  Rain or shine, you’re sorted.

The spacious outdoor space with its striking red-and-white striped awning, is reminiscent of a Parisian brasserie, softened with lush hanging greenery and warm lighting, making it a truly unique alfresco experience in the heart of Dublin city centre.

It’s perfect for a cosy winter night under the stars – and where else could be better this summer, as Met Éireann forecasts an absolute scorcher?

And if you fancy something cosier? Head downstairs to Sam’s Parlour, a basement speakeasy dripping in 1920s glamour. It’s the kind of place Gatsby himself would’ve booked a table at.

FROM ZERO TO HERO

Chris, Brendan, and Liam Kelly, the three brothers behind the Chris Kelly Group, are well known for their portfolio of award-winning bars, restaurants, and hotels across Ireland.

Their latest venture marks a new chapter in their hospitality journey.

Liam explained: “Opening Old Fashioned Sam’s in the run-up to Christmas was no small feat, especially given that this space was recently a car park and an office. 

“To see it now, transformed into this elegant and vibrant space, is incredible. It’s a completely new direction for us, but we couldn’t be happier with how it has turned out.

“I’m so proud of everyone involved. And a big thank you to my family for their patience with me throughout this huge renovation job.” 

And he added that Laura’s is the final piece of the puzzle saying: “Old Fashioned Sam’s is about creating a stylish but welcoming space where people can enjoy great food, cocktails, and atmosphere under one roof. We’re beyond excited.”

THREE STOREYS OF FUN

Laura’s is now open for lunch and dinner, and trust us, you’ll want to book ahead. Because in a city full of great spots Old Fashioned Sam’s is the one everyone’s talking about. From car park to culinary paradise, Dublin’s social scene has gotten a serious upgrade.

Old Fashioned Sam’s is now open daily from 10:30am, with Laura’s welcoming diners for lunch and dinner. Reservations are recommended. Find them online here and on Instagram here.

There are also selected two for €16 cocktails being served all day every Monday to Friday.

THE CLOSED Doncaster Sheffield Airport has revealed the latest in their reopening plans.

The airport closed back in 2022, but has been backed by the government to reopen.

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Doncaster Sheffield Airport is “in talks” with Ryanair and TUI[/caption]

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Other airline such as Wizz Air once operated there[/caption]

Earlier this year, the UK government revealed £30million was being put towards its reopening.

And with hopes to restart operations by the first half of 2026, which airline could return is yet to be confirmed.

But Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme Labour MP Lee Pitcher confirmed that he was in talks with both Ryanair and TUI.

He said, according to local media: “Yesterday, I chaired the latest meeting of the DSA Action Group, where we sat down with TUI’s UK & Ireland commercial director.

“It was a productive discussion, and we’ll continue to work with TUI, other key stakeholders, and push the Government to keep Doncaster Sheffield Airport firmly on the agenda.”

He also added on social media: “I chaired a positive DSA Action Group meeting with Ryanair, represented by their Head of Public Affairs.

“We discussed Ryanair’s position on Doncaster Sheffield Airport — and I’m pleased that they’ve agreed to be introduced to Fly Doncaster, the company that will manage the airport in partnership with international operator Munich International.”

Yet earlier this year, Ryanair said they may not be able to return to the airport, due to their growth at the nearby Leeds Bradford Airport.

He told Sky News at the time: “We certainly would look at it if it was the price of scrapping APD, we would guarantee to put flights back into Doncaster.”

Previous routes that once operated from Doncaster Sheffield were primarily short-haul, including Majorca, Alicante and Paris as well as Dubrovnik and Berlin.

Not only are airlines being discussed but a new train station could connect the airport.

This would link it to both Lincoln and the Midlands.

A spokesperson previously said: “The plan remains to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport in Spring 2026.”

This will go ahead if funding is approved in September 2025.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said at the time: “If we are to really grow our economy and put money into the pockets of working people, regional growth needs to be hardwired into the decisions that we make.

“Previous governments stood by as Doncaster Sheffield Airport was closed by its owner despite the overwhelming support for it to stay open. It now sits idle despite the potential to drive jobs and growth across the north.

“I am delighted to work with City of Doncaster Council and the Mayor of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard to support their efforts to recreate South Yorkshire Airport City as a thriving regional airport.”

As much as £5billion could come from the airport in a boost to the economy.

Here’s another closed airport in the UK that was once the world’s biggest.

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It hopes to open by next year[/caption]

MANILA, Philippines — At least two House members have called for a probe on the proliferation of illegal online gambling sites, urging the government to work together to take these sites down. In a statement on Wednesday, Bagong Henerasyon party-list Rep. Robert Nazal said that no new law is needed to go after illegal gambling

RACHAEL BLACKMORE was the latest big name to take in the sun and star power at Wimbledon.

And the former jockey did so in a jumpsuit which led to fans saying they “loved the glamour”.

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Rachael Blackmore and pal Nicki Halley at Wimbledon[/caption]

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Fans praised her outfit[/caption]

Tuesday’s action at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club was headlined by Carlos Alcaraz‘s stylish straight-set win over Cameron Norrie.

Among the big names watching the match at Centre Court was Rachael Blackmore, who was there with pal Nicki Halley.

She shared pics from the “special day” at Wimbledon, complete with her sporting a navy jumpsuit from ME+EM worth €615.

The former jockey said: “Thank you Wimbledon for another special day of tennis

“Jump-suited by @me_andem thank you!”

In the comments, fans praised her outfit, with Niamh De Brun – wife of Kilkenny hurling icon TJ Reid – saying: “You look beautiful love this look”

Katherine Jenkins posted: “It was so lovely to sit next to you and meet your friend Nicki. Hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did!”

Lee McKenzie added: “I spied you before I was going to do the interview. Glad you had a great day x”

Another follower said: “Stunning Rachel” while someone else posted: “We love the glamour Rachel enjoy!”

And another commented: “It was so very lovely to meet you and Nicki yesterday! Love the jumpsuit looks amazing xx”

Rahcael Blackmore announced her shock retirement from horse racing on May 12, prompting a deluge of tributes to the trailblazing jockey.

The Tipperary rider, who completed the Cheltenham ‘big five’ earlier this year, had already expanded her career prospects beyond the saddle.

She wrote her first book – a children’s novel entitled ‘Granny National’ – earlier in March.

And the 35-year-old joked she’s trying to figure out her next job while previewing the Royal Ascot Festival.

She touched upon being at a real crossroads while partaking in a hilarious rapid-fire Q&A session ahead of Royal Ascot getting underway this afternoon.

Asked what’s the next thing in life that she wants to achieve, the Tipperary trailblazer laughed: “I’m retired so to find a new job.”

But in a conversation with Betfair, she ruled out becoming a mentor or coach to aspiring young jockeys being that new career path.

Asked what the future had in store, Blackmore said: “Even though retiring was probably a feeling inside me that I had kind of dampened down, it wasn’t part of a massive plan to retire that Saturday.

“There is nothing set up but I am very lucky that I can take a few weeks and decide what might be next.

“It will be a very different life to the one I had previously.”

FROM divorce and ill health, to showbiz feuds and financial woes – it’s been a hellish few years for national treasure Eamonn Holmes.

While he could have been sailing towards retirement, we can reveal the breakfast host is focused on clawing back the lavish lifestyle he once enjoyed, having been fired up by his new girlfriend 20 years his junior.

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Eamonn Holmes pictured with girlfriend Katie Alexander on Sunday[/caption]

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Eamonn with his ex Ruth Lansford, who were together for 27 years[/caption]

It’s bad news for his ex Ruth Langsford, 65, who’s said to be desperate to finalise the end of their 14-year marriage. 

Insiders say 65-year-old Eamonn’s other half Katie Alexander, 43, has been the inspiration he needs to “fight for what he deserves” after a lucrative four-decade career.

“Katie’s been a rock to Eamonn throughout his ongoing divorce,” our source said. 

Eamonn’s keen to give Katie the kind of lifestyle he and Ruth enjoyed

“She knew the kind of life he was accustomed to before moving out of the house he shared with Ruth and has encouraged him to fight for what he deserves.

“Eamonn’s health is always a big concern and after a few tax blows lately, he is more determined than ever to get his finances back in order.

“He’s keen to give Katie the kind of lifestyle he and Ruth enjoyed.”

Eamonn was axed from This Morning in 2020 as part of ITV’s diversity drive – months after helping the now-disgraced presenter Phillip Schofield come out as gay on air. 

The pair have been locked in a feud ever since, with Eamonn left “furious and upset” about being dropped from hosting This Morning on Fridays after 15 years, for which he earned £600k a year.

Three years later, Phillip stepped down after an “unwise but not illegal” affair with a younger runner.

Those close to the couple claim Eamonn’s now “dragging his feet” over his divorce from Ruth, who engaged lawyers to ensure she gets to keep their £3.6million six-bed Surrey home.

Meanwhile, Eamonn, who is often wheelchair-bound because of chronic back problems, is living in a flat closer to the GB News studios – where he hosts the breakfast show – in Paddington, London.

It’s believed the TV star – thought to be worth £4million – is pushing back on the terms of the divorce after “realising there’s life after Ruth” following their split in May last year.

It comes after Eamonn – who had an infamous £250k tax row with HMRC – racked up a six-figure debt with creditors over his company Holmes & Away, which takes in cash from his broadcasting work.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time for Eamonn and Ruth,” our source added.

Hard-earned cash

“Eamonn feels hard done by in the divorce. He’s dragging his feet because Ruth’s got the house and they have a lot of other financials still to sort out between them.

“Eamonn knows his mobility issues are a worry. He needs a carer to help him get ready for work and that’s expensive.

“No one ever thought that the showbiz power couple would ever split, but although it’s sad, there’s no going back, and now Eamonn has Katie to think about. 

“She’s her own independent woman, but Eamonn wants to be able to provide the kind of lifestyle she deserves. He doesn’t want to lose her.”

Katie’s glow up

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Katie pictured in July last year when she started dating Eamonn[/caption]

Splash

On Sunday, 43-year-old relationship counsellor Katie was on Eamonn’s arm as they attended his colleague’s engagement party.

They were all smiles as they proudly walked in together – with Katie showing off her glamorous transformation since first growing closer to the television presenter last summer.

Our insider said: “They were the talk of the party when Katie walked in showing off her blonde hair and weight loss.

“She’s looking incredible, having started using hair and make-up stylists whenever she’s asked to be Eamonn’s date at his star-studded industry events.”

The mum-of-two previously admitted 2024 had been “the year of hell” after suffering “lies about me and death threats from people who have never met me”.

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Katie pictured on holiday in Spain with Eamonn last September[/caption]

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The blonde beauty has been a constant support to Eamonn[/caption]

The couple looked happier than ever on Sunday as Katie supported Eamonn as he used a walking frame instead of a wheelchair to arrive at the event soon after presenting Sundays with Eamonn on GB News.

He told viewers he was stepping in to cover for co-star Nana Akua, who threw a party to celebrate her upcoming wedding to fiancé Stephen Gillen at Shoreditch’s swanky Blue Marlin Club.

However, TV insiders insist Eamonn was making a pitch for a new show on the channel as he plans to increase his hours.

“Eamonn agreed to do the breakfast show three days a week, but he’s looking to take on more days,” a TV insider told us.

Working round the clock

“He hopes Sunday’s stand-in show will encourage bosses to sign it off.

“He’s also busy promoting his new podcast featuring conversations with all his famous friends.

“It’s early days, but it’s doing well and he has hopes of it becoming a massive success.

“Now his GB News co-stars know he’s eying up their slots – especially ex Sky News presenter Stephen Dixon who takes over from Eamonn on the Thursday/Friday breakfast shows.

“He’s taking on the extra workload because he’s keen to get back to his successful days on ITV before being axed from This Morning.

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“Eamonn’s been through so much with his relationship breakdown, deteriorating health and losing his job.

“He works really hard against all the odds and is hoping it pays off.”

Internal discussions are ongoing as Eamonn’s GB News co-stars brace themselves for schedule changes.

A source close to Eamonn said: “Eamonn is definitely working hard on GB News, his podcast and other avenues – he has always put in maximum effort on everything he does.”

GB News

MANILA, Philippines — There were still no winners of the jackpot prizes for the Grand Lotto 6/55 and Mega Lotto 6/45 draw on Wednesday, July 9, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced. In its 9 p.m. draw, the PCSO said that no one guessed Grand Lotto 6/45’s winning combination of 52-13-40-27-05-11. Its jackpot prize

A MUM and dad who took their four children on a term-time holiday because it was quieter for their autistic son have been slapped with a £407 fine.

Tammy and Daniel Lambert were hit with the eye-watering fee after they took their son Riley and three other kids to Benalmadena in Spain in April 2024.

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Tammy and Daniel Lambert acknowledged their error in court[/caption]

The couple, from Trent Vale, refused to pay the fine and appealed the decision through the North Staffordshire Justice Centre.

However, an unsuccessful plea means they now have to pay out even more.

The court heard son Riley had been waiting for an autism assessment at the time the duo pulled their kids out of school during term time.

Riley has since been diagnosed with the condition after two years on a waiting list.

Tammy told the court: “We had to time meals and go later when it was quieter. We were around the pool in a quieter area and when it was quieter.

“We had disability assistance on the plane and getting through the airport.

“I sent in photographs of Riley walking through the airport wearing his dressing gown, and with his ear defenders and weighted blanket.

“One of the reasons for going then was we were going with a family that understands the struggles we have.

“We went with our friend and she has an autistic son.

“He was on the waiting list for two years and has had a diagnosis of autism by a specialist – he was diagnosed about six weeks ago. They’re also requesting he has an ADHD assessment as well.

“We put our hands up, we did do it the wrong way. The children have good attendance – Riley’s is 97 per cent at the moment and the only time they are off is due to illness.”

The Lamberts conceded their four children were registered absent from school between April 25 and May 3, 2024.

Following a £163 victim surcharge and £120 on top of the initial £407 fine, the couple now must fork out £690.

A magistrate told the Lamberts: “It’s important that children attend school, not only for their education but for their social skills.

“If they are not in school they are being deprived of essential skills, notwithstanding the difficulties a disabled child will have.

“While we have every sympathy and acknowledge the difficulties, from what you have told us, the difficulties of having a disabled child, the law is very clear.

“Parents cannot take a child out of school without the prior authority of the child’s headmaster.

“You were issued with a fixed-penalty notice. You decided not to pay – that’s why you are here.”

The Sun Online has reached out to the North Staffordshire Justice Centre for comment.

BEN Shelton came from a set down to defeat Lorenzo Sonego and reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals for the first time.

But during the match fans noticed some big red marks on the arms of America’s world No. 10 — here’s everything you need to know about them.

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Ben Shelton is through to the Wimbledon 2025 quarter-finals[/caption]

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During the match, large red marks could be seen on his shoulder[/caption]

Wearing his trademark tank top for the round four Wimbledon 2025 clash with Lorenzo Sonego, strange dark red and purple patches could be seen on Ben Shelton‘s arms and body during the contest.

These circular marks are the result of cupping therapy — an ancient healing technique that has become increasingly popular among athletes seeking natural ways to enhance recovery, manage pain and improve performance.

The distinctive round, reddish-purple marks left on the skin are a hallmark of the practice.

They are caused by the suction effect of the cups breaking tiny blood vessels — known as capillaries — just under the skin’s surface.

What is cupping therapy?

Cupping involves placing glass, plastic or silicone cups on the skin and creating a vacuum by either heating the air inside the cup or using a mechanical pump.

This suction pulls the skin and underlying tissue upward, which expands blood vessels and increases blood flow to the area.

It also stretches fascia — a type of connective tissue found throughout the body, which is primarily made from collagen — and helps to release muscle knots and tension, stimulates the immune system.

It does this by creating a mild, localised inflammatory response, which can promote healing and draw impurities to the surface, making it easier for the body to eliminate them.

Why do people use cupping therapy?

Cupping therapy has a long history, rooted in the traditional medicine of Chinese, Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures.

The Ebers Papyrus — one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world from 1550 BC — describes how the ancient Egyptians used cupping therapy for treating fever, pain, vertigo, menstrual problems and other ailments.

Today, the healing practice is widely used by athletes and non-athletes alike for several reasons.

Healing

Cupping is commonly sought for its ability to reduce muscle pain and tension.

The suction increases blood flow to targeted areas, helping to alleviate soreness and promote faster recovery from injuries or strenuous activity.

Enhanced circulation is another benefit — by drawing blood to the surface, cupping improves local circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and accelerating the healing process.

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Cupping can help Ben’s muscles recover after gruelling on-court battles[/caption]

Improved blood flow aids in flushing out metabolic waste and toxins from the tissues, which is believed to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

Relaxation and stress reduction

The therapy can have a calming effect on the nervous system.

It helps to reduce stress and promote a sense of relaxation similar to a deep tissue massage.

This is why many non-athletes also enjoy the practice recreationally.

Muscle recovery

Cupping speeds up muscle recovery after intense training sessions.

The increased circulation helps repair micro-tears and reduce inflammation.

By loosening tight muscles and connective tissues, cupping can increase range of motion and decrease stiffness as well.

SAUDI giants Al-Hilal could tempt RB Leipzig with a sensational offer for hitman Benjamin Sesko after failing to convince Victor Osimhen to join them.

Hilal are in the market for a striker this summer and have already been turned down twice by Osimhen, who now looks set to stay in Turkey.

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Sesko has been linked to Manchester United recently but he could be heading to Saudi[/caption]

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Mateta has transformed in to consistent Premier League goalscorer[/caption]

They are now turning their sights to 6ft 5in Sesko, who has also been linked with Manchester United this summer.

Also on their striker shortlist is Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is quietly angling for a new deal behind the scenes.

The Frenchman netted 17 goals for the South London club, who went on to win a historic FA Cup and qualify for the Europa League.

Another name on the list is Fiorentina’s Moise Kean, who enjoyed a stellar campaign, scoring 25 goals across all competitions.

Both Mateta and Kean have also been linked with Manchester United this summer as new boss Ruben Amorim looks to add firepower to a squad that struggled last season and finished a disappointing 15th in the league.

Sources in Saudi Arabia have told SunSport that once Hilal finalise their move for AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez, they will turn their attention to signing a new striker.

Should they pursue Sesko, RB Leipzig are understood to value the 22-year-old in the region of £77million.

The cash-rich Saudi side impressed many when they beat Manchester City at the Club World Cup, a performance seen as a major advert for how far the Saudi League has come.

Hilal, who show no signs of slowing down after clinching the Saudi League title last season, also made headlines by appointing Simone Inzaghi as manager from Inter Milan.

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The club are happy with Aleksandar Mitrovic but want to give Inzaghi another lethal option up front.

Al-Hilal are widely recognised as the most successful club in the Saudi League.

They’ve won a record 19 Saudi Pro League titles, more than any other team in the league’s history and already boast stars like Joao Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly and Ruben Neves in their ranks.

Their ambitious transfer short list could wreck the plans of Manchester United, who instead could turn to bargain options like Jamie Vardy or Callum Wilson who are both free agents.

TRANSFER NEWS LIVE – KEEP UP WITH ALL THE LATEST FROM A BUSY SUMMER WINDOW

CARLO ANCELOTTI has been sentenced to one year in prison for tax fraud.

The Brazil manager has been found guilty of tax fraud dating back to 2014 when he was in charge at Real Madrid.

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Carlo Ancelotti has been sentenced to one year in prison for tax fraud.[/caption]

He was accused of concealing income related to his image rights.

But, he has been acquitted of another possible tax offences committed in 2015, also related to the collection of his image rights while he was employed by Real Madrid.

Despite the verdict, Ancelotti is unlikely to serve any time behind bars.

Under Spanish law any sentence under two years for a non-violent crime rarely requires a defendant without previous convictions to serve jail time.

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