free webpage hit counter

Blogs

Lidl Ireland fans rushing to buy ‘jumbo’ pool perfect for heatwave as temperatures soar to 28C

LIDL Ireland fans are rushing to buy a “jumbo” pool perfect for heatwaves as temperatures are set to soar to 28C.

The jumbo Leisure Pool is now in stores nationwide for only €19.99.

Inflatable rectangular pool with built-in headrest.
Lidl Ireland
Lidl Ireland has released a jumbo pool as temperatures are set to soar this week[/caption]
Inflatable pool with a built-in seat.
Lidl Ireland
And it comes in two different styles[/caption]

Met Éireann has said Ireland could be basking in scorching temperatures up to 28C within days as Europe’s heatwave drifts closer.

Parts of the continent have already seen the mercury rocket past 46C, shutting schools and causing a string of heat-related deaths.

And Lidl Ireland is bringing back an affordable way to cool off this summer with the Jumbo Leisure Pool.

Available from June 16 until August 31, this inflatable pool is set to be a popular pick for families looking to enjoy the warm weather.

The pool comes in two styles, so you can choose between a hexagonal or rectangular shape to suit your space.

It features a two air chamber system and quick-release valves are included to make inflating and deflating faster.

When fully set up, the pool measures 202 by 151 centimetres with a height of either 46 or 60 centimetres depending on the style.

This size is big enough for kids to paddle comfortably and compact enough for most gardens or patios.

And at €19.99, this bargain buy is one of the most budget-friendly options around.

Savvy shoppers must act fast as the pool is only in stores until the end of August.

What’s more, the bargain supermarket has a range of other items to keep yourself cool this summer.

LIDL SUMMER BARGAINS

To start, Lidl is releasing a desk fan for only €19.99.

This compact unit includes three speed settings and an optional 85° oscillation function.

Its adjustable tilt angle lets you direct airflow exactly where it’s needed, while its measurements are 46 x 34 x 24cm, making it suitable for desks, counters or bedside tables.

What’s more, It even comes with a three-year guarantee.

This fan is geared toward those looking for a quieter, more versatile cooling option this summer.

Lidl is also offering small portable fans at €5.99 each, or two for €10.

Despite their size, they include three fan speed settings and a tiltable head.

A portable air cooler is also available at Lidl, now reduced from €17.99 to €12.99.

It’s designed for personal use, with a 700ml water tank that can run for up to seven hours.

The cooler has three air speed settings and includes a dimmable LED mood light.

It cools and humidifies, offering a different effect from a regular fan and it comes with a built-in carry handle so you can move it between rooms.

THE HISTORY OF LIDL IN IRELAND

LIDL first opened in Germany in 1973.

Back then, it employed just three people, stocking 500 product lines.

The first Irish store, located just off Molesworth Street in Dublin, was opened in 1999.

This was Lidl’s first entry into the Irish grocery market.

Then, Lidl opened more stores in 2000, in Limerick, Letterkenny, Mullingar, Athlone, Cavan, Ballinasloe and Portlaoise.

Now, the retailer has over 180 stores and three distribution centres, employing over 6,000 people.

They work with a network of more than 260 Irish suppliers from the communities they operate in.

Read More »

New LPA monitored inside PAR – Pagasa

MANILA, Philippines — A new low pressure (LPA) was monitored inside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR), according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) on Wednesday. In an advisory issued at 10 p.m., Pagasa said that as of 8 p.m, LPA 07c was spotted 470 kilometers north-northwest of Itbayat, Batanes. READ:

Read More »

Lidl Ireland fans rushing to buy ‘jumbo’ pool perfect for heatwave as temps soar to 28C

LIDL Ireland fans are rushing to buy a “jumbo” pool perfect for heatwaves as temperatures are set to soar to 28C.

The jumbo Leisure Pool is now in stores nationwide for only €19.99.

Inflatable rectangular pool with built-in headrest.
Lidl Ireland
Lidl Ireland has released a jumbo pool as temperatures are set to soar this week[/caption]
Inflatable pool with a built-in seat.
Lidl Ireland
And it comes in two different styles[/caption]

Met Éireann has said Ireland could be basking in scorching temperatures up to 28C within days as Europe’s heatwave drifts closer.

Parts of the continent have already seen the mercury rocket past 46C, shutting schools and causing a string of heat-related deaths.

And Lidl Ireland is bringing back an affordable way to cool off this summer with the Jumbo Leisure Pool.

Available from June 16 until August 31, this inflatable pool is set to be a popular pick for families looking to enjoy the warm weather.

The pool comes in two styles, so you can choose between a hexagonal or rectangular shape to suit your space.

It features a two air chamber system and quick-release valves are included to make inflating and deflating faster.

When fully set up, the pool measures 202 by 151 centimetres with a height of either 46 or 60 centimetres depending on the style.

This size is big enough for kids to paddle comfortably and compact enough for most gardens or patios.

And at €19.99, this bargain buy is one of the most budget-friendly options around.

Savvy shoppers must act fast as the pool is only in stores until the end of August.

What’s more, the bargain supermarket has a range of other items to keep yourself cool this summer.

LIDL SUMMER BARGAINS

To start, Lidl is releasing a desk fan for only €19.99.

This compact unit includes three speed settings and an optional 85° oscillation function.

Its adjustable tilt angle lets you direct airflow exactly where it’s needed, while its measurements are 46 x 34 x 24cm, making it suitable for desks, counters or bedside tables.

What’s more, It even comes with a three-year guarantee.

This fan is geared toward those looking for a quieter, more versatile cooling option this summer.

Lidl is also offering small portable fans at €5.99 each, or two for €10.

Despite their size, they include three fan speed settings and a tiltable head.

A portable air cooler is also available at Lidl, now reduced from €17.99 to €12.99.

It’s designed for personal use, with a 700ml water tank that can run for up to seven hours.

The cooler has three air speed settings and includes a dimmable LED mood light.

It cools and humidifies, offering a different effect from a regular fan and it comes with a built-in carry handle so you can move it between rooms.

THE HISTORY OF LIDL IN IRELAND

LIDL first opened in Germany in 1973.

Back then, it employed just three people, stocking 500 product lines.

The first Irish store, located just off Molesworth Street in Dublin, was opened in 1999.

This was Lidl’s first entry into the Irish grocery market.

Then, Lidl opened more stores in 2000, in Limerick, Letterkenny, Mullingar, Athlone, Cavan, Ballinasloe and Portlaoise.

Now, the retailer has over 180 stores and three distribution centres, employing over 6,000 people.

They work with a network of more than 260 Irish suppliers from the communities they operate in.

Read More »

‘You did it’: Doc who treated mushroom killer Erin Patterson tells how he knew she was a ‘heinous’ murderer in minutes

THE doctor who treated Australian mushroom killer Erin Patterson has revealed how he knew she was a “heinous” murderer within minutes.

Dr Chris Webster treated the Leongatha, Victoria, mother and now-convicted killer after she took herself to hospital following the infamous lunch.

Erin Patterson, found guilty of murder.
AFP
Infamous convicted mushroom killer Erin Patterson[/caption]
Photo of two trays of beef Wellington samples containing toxic mushrooms, evidence in a murder trial.
AFP
The partially eaten beef wellington[/caption]
Security footage of a woman interacting with a masked healthcare worker.
Erin Patterson checking herself out of hospital
Timeline illustrating the events leading to Erin Patterson's arrest and charges for murder and attempted murder.

Patterson, 49, had cooked a beef wellington with lethal death cap mushrooms and intentionally fed it to four guests, killing three, for lunch in July 2023.

Webster he had spent the next morning treating two of the poisoned four only for Patterson to turn up complaining of gastro, he told the BBC.

Within minutes, Webster knew she was a cold-blooded killer.

The doctor said: “I thought, ‘Okay, yep, you did it, you heinous individual. You’ve poisoned them all’.”

Patterson was convicted on Monday of killing her 70-year-old in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail’s sister Heather, 66.

The at-home chef was also convicted of one count of attempted murder against local pastor Ian Wilkinson – Heather’s husband – in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

Webster had first treated Heather and Ian at Leongatha Hospital the next morning after the lunch with intense gastroenteritis-like symptoms.

He initially believed it was a case of mass food poisoning and through quizzing his patients suspected the meat in the beef wellington was the culprit.

Webster said: “I did ask Heather at one stage what the beef Wellington tasted like and she said it was delicious.”

The doctor took Heather and Ian’s blood samples and then sent them for analysis to a larger town with better facilities than the small rural Leongatha Hospital.

Soon after, he received a call from the doctor treating the other two who were poisoned – Don and Gail – at Dandenong Hospital.

She said it was the mushrooms, not the meat, and Webster’s stomach dropped.

Webster had hooked Heather and Ian with fluids, but quickly changed tack as he realised their life was on the line.

He knew he needed to save their failing livers and prepared to send them to a larger hospital where they could get better care.

Portrait of Chris Webster, the doctor who treated Erin Patterson, the mushroom killer.
ABC
Dr Chris Webster said he knew Erin Patterson was a killer[/caption]
CCTV footage of a woman disposing of a food dehydrator.
AFP
CCTV video footage of Patterson disposing of a food dehydrator used to prepare the mushrooms[/caption]

But then a person presented themselves to the hospital claiming they had gastro symptoms.

Webster asked Patterson for her name and said when he heard it: “The penny dropped… it’s the chef.”

The doctor quizzed the chef about where the mushrooms had come from – Woolworths, she said.

It was with that answer that Webster knew she was guilty.

But the doctor said that made no sense as the supermarket giant would have stringent food safety standards.

Webster also said Patterson didn’t seem worried about the danger Heather and Ian – lying only metres away – were in.

He then sent Ian and Heather off in an ambulance to Dandenong Hospital, saying he tragically knew they wouldn’t return.

When he returned, Patterson had checked herself out against medical advice.

After desperately trying to call Patterson but being unable to reach her, Webster called the cops.

He said: “This is Dr Chris Webster from Leongatha Hospital. I have a concern about a patient who presented here earlier, but has left the building and is potentially exposed to a fatal toxin from mushroom poisoning.”

In this courtroom sketch, Erin Patterson appears in Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court, Victoria, Nov. 3, 2023. Patterson, accused of serving her ex-husband's parents and an aunt poisonous mushrooms with lunch, has pleaded not guilty in an Australian court, Tuesday, May 7, 2024, on three counts of murder and five of attempted murder. (Anita Lester/AAP Image via AP)
Patterson in court during the trial
Erin Patterson: Woman who cooked up a poisonous mushroom lunch that killed three of her family members breaks down in tears, Three people dead after eating wild mushrooms, Erin Patterson cooked the meal at Leongatha home, She broke down in tears and denied any wrongdoing ., Erin Patterson, 48, hosted a lunch with her former in-laws, Gail and Don Patterson, along with Gail's sister, Heather Wilkinson, and her husband Ian at her home in Leongatha, in Victoria's Gippsland region, on July 29.
The chef broke down in tears when she spoke to media after the deaths

At the trial, Patterson said she had been caught off guard by the information about the deadly mushrooms and went home to pack an overnight bag and feed the animals.

She also had a “lie-down” before returning to the hospital.

When she finally did, Webster tried to get her to also bring her children, who the chef claimed had eaten leftovers.

In court, Patterson said she was “concerned that they were going to be frightened.”

Days later, Patterson was caught on CCTV trying to cover her tracks by dumping the food dehydrator she used in her twisted murder plot.

Wearing a long coat and sunglasses, Patterson is seen unloading the food dehydrator at the Koonwarra Transfer Station on August 2, 2023 – an apparent attempt to erase evidence linked to the deadly beef wellington meal.

And in a chilling image also released by the court, the meal that left her family dying in agony is laid out next to forensic evidence bags.

The annotated photo was taken during toxicology testing at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine.

A poisonous mushroom held with gloved hands.
Nine
A death cap mushroom[/caption]

Read More »

Tiernan Lynch insists Derry City fans ‘will enjoy watching’ new signing whose goals ‘is only part of what he gives you’

DERRY CITY boss Tiernan Lynch says there is more to Dipo Akinyemi than just goals.

The English striker has joined the Candystripes on a multi-year deal from York City.

Most of his career has been spent in non-league football where he has been a regular scorer.

And in the 2022-23 season, he was named the Scottish Championship’s Players’ Player of the Year after netting 20 league goals for Ayr United.

City boss Lynch said; “We’ve been very keen on Dipo for a while and I’m delighted he wanted to come here.

“His goalscoring record speaks for itself, but that’s only a part of what he gives you.

“He has excellent numbers when it comes to assists and has a very strong work ethic.

“When you’re looking at players to strengthen the group, you’re also very much looking at character as well.

“I have no doubt that Derry City fans will enjoy watching Dipo over the next number of seasons.”

20 June 2025; Derry City manager Tiernan Lynch applauds their supporters after their victory in the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match between Shelbourne and Derry City at Tolka Park in Dublin. Photo by Thomas Flinkow/Sportsfile
Tiernan Lynch has welcomed the signing of Dipo Akinyemi
Thomas Flinkow/Sportsfile

Read More »

One of the best beer gardens in Cornwall sits on the ‘world’s most beautiful road’

CORNWALL is known for its beautiful scenery as well as beautiful boozers – and one of the best is The Tinners Arms.

Found in the village of Zennor, The Tinners Arms has been picked out as having one of the gardens to enjoy a beer in the sunshine.

Stone building with outdoor seating area and church in background.
Behind the back of Tinners Arms is a big and usually busy beer garden
The Tinners Arms pub in Zennor, Cornwall.
Alamy
The Tinners Arms was first built in 1271[/caption]

The Tinners Arms has been around for over 700 years and was first built in 1271.

Punters will find it the small village of Zennor and along what has been called the ‘world’s most beautiful road’ by CornwallLive.

This is the stretch of road between St Ives and Land’s End, at the very tip of Cornwall.

Along the route, drivers and walkers along the South West Coast Path will get views of the stunning Cornish beaches and rolling countryside.

As for The Tinners Arms, it’s been highlighted for it’s beautiful beer garden too, which has been called one of the best to have a drink on a summers day.

In the walled garden filled with bright flowers and greenery is lots of picnic tables and even more fantastic views.

For ale drinkers, The Tinners Arms sells “legendary Tinners and Mermaid Ales” and “refreshing Zennor lager”.

Other drinks include wine, craft lagers and ciders from local vineyards like Polgoon Penzance or Godrevy Gold from St. Ives.

The popularity of the pub has been confirmed by Tripadvisor where the pub has over 400 ‘excellent’ rated reviews.

One visitor wrote: “A very welcome rest stop after walking the South West Coast Path from St Ives. Friendly service, great location, good beer.”

Another added: “Popped in for dinner whilst on a road trip and discovered a hidden gem. Had a couple of drinks and food. Both were outstanding.”

Tinner's Arms pub sign and village church.
Alamy
The pub is on the path of one of the ‘world’s most beautiful roads’[/caption]

One even took a pit stop while going along the beautiful road: “We stopped off on our way around the gorgeous Lands End to St Ives road and are so glad we did and found this wonderful, cosy, really old Cornish pub.”

The Tinners Arms has plenty of food too and are known for serving very fresh fish which has come in from Newlyn fishing port, so here’s lots of fresh crab and mackerel dishes.

The village of Zennor is famous for its local mermaid legend and even has carvings depicting the myth on the side of St. Senara’s Church.

Zennor was also one of the last places where traditional Cornish was spoken.

There’s also a floating beer garden in Cornwall, at the Pandora Inn, where picnic tables float on a pontoon that sits out on the Restronguet Creek in Falmouth.

It goes up and down with the tide meaning that in high tide, punters can literally sit on the water.

The 13th century inn even has its own mooring pontoon where people can park their boats.

In 2023, the pub was included among eight other pubs listed by The Times for its unique setting to enjoy a pint.

And one of the UK’s oldest beach bars to open new rooftop terrace in time for summer.

Plus, the best riverside pubs across the UK including a moored boat and one ‘that feels like the south of France.

Coastal road overlooking farmland and the ocean in West Cornwall.
The Tinners Arms is on one of the most beautiful roads in the UK
Alamy

Read More »

Max Verstappen posts emotional 26-word message to Christian Horner after Red Bull chief is sacked

MAX VERSTAPPEN has posted an emotional message to Christian Horner in the wake of the Red Bull chief’s sacking.

The F1 champion wrote: “From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes.

“Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!”

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen embracing.
PA
Max Verstappen posted an emotional message to Christian Horner in the wake of the Red Bull chief’s sacking[/caption]

MORE TO FOLLOW

THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..

The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball.

Read More »

I visited Dublin’s newest foodie destination beloved by celebs with the city’s biggest heated courtyard

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.

Interior view of Laura's Restaurant.
Start your journey on the first floor in Laura’s – perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner with dishes you’ll love
Sun terrace with red and white striped seating and marble-top tables.
Sam’s spacious courtyard complete with heaters and a retractable roof to keep things cozy year-round

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.

Overhead view of two plates of food: one with sliced pork, fennel, and a dark sauce, and the other with baked meatballs topped with parmesan cheese.
There’s something for all taste buds at Laura’s
default
Welcome to Old Fashioned Sam’s – a massive three-story experience, each level with its own unique vibe
Steve, a chef and a man in glasses.
Steve Buscemi with Chef Zach at Old Fashioned Sam’s

Read More »

Closed UK airport takes step closer to reopening next year after ‘talks’ with Ryanair and TUI

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.

Doncaster Sheffield Robin Hood Airport exterior.
Getty
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is “in talks” with Ryanair and TUI[/caption]
Two Wizz Air Airbus A320 planes on the tarmac.
Getty
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.

Aerial view of Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
Alamy
It hopes to open by next year[/caption]

Read More »

Solons ask: Shut down illegal online gambling sites

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

Read More »