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‘Very difficult time’ – Irish restaurant announces shock closure in ‘difficult’ decision as business ‘no longer viable’

A POPULAR Irish restaurant has announced its shock closure, leaving fans devastated.

The Old Market Bar and Restaurant in Bandon, Co Cork has revealed that after less than a year in operation it is now closed.

Interior view of the Old Market Bar and Restaurant in Bandon.
Facebook
The Old Market Bar and Restaurant in Bandon, Co Cork has announced its shock closure[/caption]

The popular restaurant announced the devastating news to costumers on Monday, June 30.

The owners put the closure down due to ongoing roadworks in Bandon that put a “massive strain” on their business.

Located on the 6 Market St, Gully, Bandon, Co Cork, The Old Market Bar first opened on November 8, 2024.

It became popular among the locals with its safe, inclusive space and unique dishes.

In a post on social media, the owners Shane and Carly Spillane informed their fans of the “difficult” decision.

They wrote: “With a lot of hard conversations over the past two weeks, we have decided that it’s not possible to reopening The Old Market.

“We would just like to say a huge thank you to our amazing staff and customers.

“It’s been a pleasure getting to know you all, we’ve had lots of belly laughs and have met friends to last a lifetime in our time Bandon.”

They continued: “Unfortunately it just didn’t go the way we planned.

“With all the road works happening it put a massive stain on us and our business is no longer viable.

This is a very difficult time for Bandon and all its traders, so please everyone support your local shops and businesses.

“Who knows what the future holds, hopefully our paths will cross again.”

The couple formerly ran O’Connor’s Seafood Café and Seafood Restaurant before taking over The Old Market Tavern Bar on Market Street in October last year.

Last month, they announced that the popular restaurant would close briefly for refurbishments.

But weeks later, they decided to close their doors for good.

The Old Market Bar and Restaurant in Bandon at night.
Trip Advisor
It became popular among the locals with its safe, inclusive space and unique dishes[/caption]

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Horoscope today, July 5, 2025: Daily star sign guide from Mystic Meg

OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in March 2023 but her column will be kept alive by her friend and protégée Maggie Innes.

Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today. 

♈ ARIES

March 21 to April 20

Family heat can cool, helped by the bonding power of the moon – as everyone realises what connects them matters more than anything that may divide them.

A call may not be easy to make, but you are ready.

Single? Venus brings you three names at the same time – but you will instantly sense which one is right.

Get all the latest Aries horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions.

a poster for mystic meg with maggie innes saturday
Your weekly horoscope for Saturday

♉ TAURUS

April 21 to May 21

Your money chart is so together now, so build on this by taking time to get figures back in line.

Seeing yourself as someone who makes smart money choices is the right approach, because it can be true.

A moon of lasting partnerships, even weddings, is coming through strong – what will you do with this?

Get all the latest Taurus horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♊ GEMINI

May 22 to June 21

Forgetting may be a challenge, but you can still forgive – this can enable a group to move forward. So give this some thought.

A set of routine tasks gets a twist of fate when one helper has a face that intrigues you so much.

The next move is yours – make it soon. A circular prize can be the one to make top priority.

Get all the latest Gemini horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♋ CANCER

June 22 to July 22

A creative spark shines in you – use it to show how much you care. This need not cost money, just a bit of thought.

Expecting praise for deeds may be delaying an outcome, so press on without it.

Your own sense of achievement is enough to sustain progress. Mars makes you loose-lipped, especially at home.

Get all the latest Cancer horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♌ LEO

July 23 to August 23

Those dreams of rebuilding a family move closer to reality thanks to dynamic planet positions.

You have Mercury clear sight to overlook minor niggles and keep moving towards a major success.

Passion-wise, you can see maintaining mutual respect matters as much as physical fun – a Pisces supplies both.

Get all the latest Leo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♍ VIRGO

August 24 to September 22

Flexing your Mars muscles helps you take control of your destiny – instead of always thinking about what others may want.

Focusing on yourself may feel unusual, but this is your time to try. In love?

A solo goal can happen so much faster when shared by two.

Single? Your soulmate loves heavy metal music.

Get all the latest Virgo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

a purple circle with the zodiac signs in it
Getty
Mars aims high in love, and can see the bigger picture even when you may not.[/caption]

♎ LIBRA

September 23 to October 23

Mars helps you see which secrets are worth keeping, which may have become a habit – now you can let these go.

Making more bandwidth in life for your dreams will take practice, but is worth it.

A location you have always longed to visit is right there on your horizon now – and a love bonus can be part of the package.

Get all the latest Libra horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

List of 12 star signs

The traditional dates used by Mystic Meg for each sign are below.

♏ SCORPIO

October 24 to November 22

If you feel love changing, go with it – there is so much that’s so exciting out there for you.

Including a new passion linked to an old acquaintance. Your personal moon heightens insight into others but also yourself.

So this is a day to listen to any voices in your head and heart that refuse to be silenced.

Get all the latest Scorpio horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♐ SAGITTARIUS

November 23 to December 21

Your weddings zone pulses with passion – and happy ever after can be your goal, even if this has felt a long way away.

Mars aims high in love, and can see the bigger picture even when you may not. So do trust those impulses to speak.

The right words will be right there when you need them. Luck circles “32”.

Get all the latest Sagittarius horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♑ CAPRICORN

December 22 to January 20

Taking the time you need to make a health change properly can be your goal of the day.

Instead of half-measures, your chart shows you need to be all in – even if this means asking others to step back, for a while at least.

Deep down, you know what you need, and it’s up to you to share this. Love is learning fast.

Get all the latest Capricorn horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

a zodiac circle with the signs of the zodiac on it
Supplied
Your creative chart encourages going back to an activity you really love[/caption]

♒ AQUARIUS

January 21 to February 18

Down time can be deliberation time, as thoughts of work, or health, can’t be shifted from your mind.

This is your sign to think through a change one more time, then start putting it in place.

Your creative chart encourages going back to an activity you really love, and doing it for enjoyment, rather than possible profit.

Get all the latest Aquarius horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

♓ PISCES

February 19 to March 20

In the map of your life, you can be at a crossroads now – each possible path is so tempting, but it’s the one that teaches you something that you should consider first.

Family life may have its flaws, but this is what makes it unique.

Choosing to overlook mistakes is an act of generosity.

Luck links three generations.

Get all the latest Pisces horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions

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Horse racing tips: ‘He shapes like a strong stayer on handicap debut’ – Templegate’s Saturday NAP can exploit his mark

TEMPLEGATE tackles Saturday’s racing – including the brilliant Coral-Eclipse from Sandown live on ITV1 at 3.35pm – confident of bashing the bookies.

Back a horse by clicking their odds below.

VALIANCY (2.05 Haydock, nap)

He looks the one to beat for William Haggas. This Cracksman gelding is going the right way, just denied here over 1m4f in May before bolting up at Hamilton. He shapes like a strong stayer and should relish this extra yardage on good ground. A fair opening mark gives him every chance on handicap debut.

GREEK ORDER (2.25 Sandown, nb)

He was a major eyecatcher when fourth in the Royal Hunt Cup at Ascot, finishing strongly behind impressive winner My Cloud and shaping like a Group-class performer in a handicap. That was his first run for Michael Bell after returning from the US and confirmed he retains all his ability. The stiffer mile at Sandown should suit him ideally and the booking of Ryan Moore catches the eye.

SIR LOWRY’S PASS (3.15 Haydock, treble)

He has more to come over this distance with an excellent Goodwood win before getting no luck at Redcar last time. Moving up to this distance can pay further dividends.

Templegate’s TV verdicts

SANDOWN

1.50

SHE’S QUALITY is living up to her name after two mighty efforts in Group sprints this season.

She chased home Rumstar in the Palace House at HQ and went down by just half a length in the Temple Stakes.

She’s tactically versatile, handles any going and the stiff 5f here could suit ideally. She’s ready to strike at this level and gets the nod.

Kerdos wasn’t helped by getting loose before the King Charles III at Royal Ascot, but still ran a blinder, finishing first of the far-side group and beaten only two lengths.

He drops in grade here and should go very close. Rumstar beat the tip in the Palace House and has been unlucky twice since, both times poorly drawn.

He’s proven in this grade and can’t be discounted.

Balmoral Lady is an improver from the Ed Walker yard. She won a Listed event at Haydock in May and outran her odds at Ascot, shaping well. Another live one.

West Acre didn’t get the run of the race at the Royal meeting and likes this trip, while Adrestia took a hot Ascot handicap last time and isn’t out of place in this grade.

2.25

GREEK ORDER was a major eyecatcher when fourth in the Royal Hunt Cup at Ascot, finishing strongly behind impressive winner My Cloud and shaping like a Group-class performer in a handicap.

That was his first run for Michael Bell after returning from the US and confirmed he retains all his ability.

The stiffer mile at Sandown should suit him ideally and the booking of Ryan Moore catches the eye.

Treasure Time is feared most. He’s been off since last September but won twice last season and represents the powerful William Haggas yard.

He stays strongly, travels well and has won fresh before – this track could bring out even more.

Classic Encounter is also on the upgrade and comes here on the back of a gritty win at York. He’s not flashy but is tough and improving.

Classic goes well at Sandown and has hit the frame here last time when second in a tactical race. A repeat of that puts him in the hunt.

Arisaig could be pick of the bigger prices after being snookered by the draw at Royal Ascot last time.

3.00

SUPERMODEL is sitting pretty for William Haggas.

She is bred to excel over middle distances but has also shown a potent turn of foot over shorter in two emphatic wins in her brief career.

She cruised home in a Nottingham handicap on reappearance, forging clear late with plenty in hand and was value for a lot more.

The stiff Sandown mile and likely strong pace are ideal and she’s open to stacks of improvement.

Miss Tonnerre looks a major danger. She chased home high-class fillies as a juvenile, including in the Group 2 May Hill at Donny and her pedigree suggests she’ll be better as a three-year-old.

She’s entitled to come on plenty for last month’s return in the Musidora and dropping back in trip can help.

Much of the market attention centres on Blue Bolt, who has won her last two with ease.

She’s clearly talented but takes on stronger rivals here and is a little skinny in the market.

Cajole has Ryan Moore up for the Gosdens and she improved plenty when second in the Sandringham at Royal Ascot.

She didn’t get the clearest of runs there and looks up to this standard.

Victory Queen is going the right way and has place claims too.

3.35

OMBUDSMAN may be a short price but he’s mighty hard to beat in the Coral-Eclipse.

This powerhouse from the Gosden yard confirmed himself as a serious Group 1 performer at Royal Ascot, where he stormed through late to land the Prince of Wales’s Stakes in some style.

He was short of room at a key moment but still quickened like a jet once clear, brushing aside his rivals with ease.

He’s looked a monster in the making all year and this could be his coronation.

The only thing that could derail him is a messy race in this small field.

There’s no obvious front-runner and a slowly-run race wouldn’t be ideal – but William Buick has options.

Ombudsman stays 1m2f well, has a sharp turn of foot and acts on any ground.

French raider Sosie will keep him honest.

The Andre Fabre star has already bagged two Group 1s this season at Longchamp, the Prix Ganay and the Prix d’Ispahan, showing a blend of class and stamina.

Most French races are stop-start so this could work out very nicely for him.

Delacroix looked all class in the spring, winning the Ballysax and Leopardstown Trial but bombed out in the Derby.

That run is easy to forgive – he was shuffled right back after early interference – and he wouldn’t be the first Ballydoyle runner to bounce back from an Epsom flop at the highest level.

Ryan Moore keeps the faith over Camille Pissarro, who he won the French Derby on easily last time.

He’s no mug but this is deeper and he needs more taking on his elders.

Ruling Court is interesting. The 2,000 Guineas winner was never happy in the St James’s Palace but few of the Charlie Appleby horses enjoyed Royal Ascot.

This trip should be ideal and quick ground suits.

Oisin Murphy should get a good tune out of him.

Jessica Harrington runners are always respected and Hotazhell was far from disgraced when third in the Irish Guineas.

He is another who should relish this trip and, while 33-1 is a fair enough price, he needs a big step forward to figure.

HAYDOCK

2.05

VALIANCY looks the one to beat for William Haggas.

This Cracksman gelding is going the right way, just denied here over 1m4f in May before bolting up at Hamilton.

He shapes like a strong stayer and should relish this extra yardage on good ground.

A fair opening mark gives him every chance on handicap debut.

Deep Water Bay is on the upgrade too, winning two of his last three for Sir Mark Prescott.

He’s thrived since stepping up in trip and switching to handicaps, though this is tougher back on turf after scoring at Chelmsford.

Many Men had Novelista behind when scoring at Doncaster, but the latter now gets a pull in the weights and looks a solid each-way player.

Way Of Stars sluiced home in a Goodwood maiden and goes back into handicaps on the up, while Ammes ran with credit in the King George V at Royal Ascot and stays well. Both are in the place picture.

2.40

WITH just four runners this could turn into a sprint which would be ideal for SCENIC.

Ed Walker’s mare is a proven battler and arrives here off the back of a gutsy win in the Bronte Cup at York, getting up late over 1m6f to take it on the line.

That form looks solid and she’s already a dual Listed scorer who stays well and acts on quick ground.

Estrange blew the field away in the Pinnacle here last month, slamming Shaha by over four lengths.

She’s proven over the trip and looks a potential Group 1 performer in the making.

But all her wins have come off a strong pace and a dawdle here could make her vulnerable late.

Love Talk is likely to get a soft lead but is miles off on ratings in this company, while Nuit is a maiden stepping up from Listed level with lots on her plate.

Still there’s £13,450 on offer for third which is a good payday.

3.15

SIR LOWRY’S PASS looks pretty as a picture for the Old Newton Cup (3.15 Haydock).

Ed Walker’s improver has more to come over this trip. He can edge out Chillingham and City Of Delight.

Here’s my race guide:

ENEMY 1

OH My. Former Group performer has badly out of sorts lately. Drops into handicap but hard to fancy with big weight.

STRESSFREE 3

NO Stress. Won here in May then had no chance at Ascot from rear. Stays strongly and track suits. Each-way shout.

CHILLINGHAM 4

HOT Chill. Got York race in stewards’ room after close second. Visor helped and stays. Dangerous if headgear keeps him focused again.

SIR LOWRY’S PASS 5

PASS master. Improver for in-form yard. Strong Goodwood win then didn’t get run of race at Redcar. Likely stayer with more to come now.

PLAGE DE HAVRE 3

HAV a look. Stays on any ground. Can pull early but capable of going close at best.

CITY OF DELIGHT 4

ANGEL Delight. Won six of last eight and only beaten by pace last time. Ahead of the handicapper. Big player.

GREAT BEDWYN 3

GREAT shout. Won return at York then unlucky at Epsom. Stays well and lightly raced this year. Place hope.

SOL CAYO 3

CAYO go. Front-runner thriving after three wins. Big class rise but confidence is high. Could go close if getting own way.

BOX TO BOX 2

BOXED in. Won over shorter here latest but step up in trip a worry. Tougher from wide draw off higher mark.

MY DREAM WORLD 3

DREAM on. Improving 4yo who stays. Track suits and could go close after good York run.

MINSTREL KNIGHT 3

MIN the hunt. Solid comeback and stays well. Would like some rain but not out of it.

NIGHT BREEZE 2

BREEZE blows. Still 6lb higher than Ascot win and modest at Epsom latest. Needs a bit more.

PADDY THE SQUIRE 3

PADDY not baddy. Best over 1m2f but looks on fair mark and place claims if getting home.

HUMBLE SPARK 2

NO Spark. Pick of form on AW and best efforts over further. Likely to be outpaced.

MIDNIGHT LION 2

LION barred. Solid run over further at Newcastle last week but best form on the sand.

SPORTINGSILVERMINE 2

DEEP Mine. Still unexposed over trip but past two runs have been modest so needs more.

Templegate’s tips

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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
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

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Gardai issue appeal for woman, 36, missing from Dublin for over a week as family ‘concerned’ for wellbeing

GARDAI have issued a public appeal for assistance in locating a woman who has been missing from Dublin for over a week.

Cristina Ciobirca was last seen in the Dublin 13 area on June 25, 2025.

She was then reported missing from her home on July 3, 2025.

The 36-year-old is described as being approximately 5 foot 3 inches in height with a slim build.

She also has brown hair and blue eyes.

Family and Gardai are both concerned for Cristina’s wellbeing.

And Gardai are asking anyone with information to make contact with them.

In a statement Gardai said: “Gardai are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 36-year-old Cristina Ciobirca who was reported missing from her home in Belmayne, Dublin 13 on Thursday, 3rd July 2025.

“Cristina was last seen in the Dublin 13 area on Wednesday, 25th June 2025.

“Cristina is described as being approximately 5 foot 3 inches in height, has a slim build, with brown hair and blue eyes.

“Gardai and Cristina’s family are concerned for her wellbeing.

“Anyone with any information on Cristina’s whereabouts is asked to contact Coolock Garda station on 01 666 4200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.”

Headshot of a smiling woman outdoors.
Gardai
Her family are concerned[/caption]

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Julian McMahon dead at 56 after Nip/Tuck and Fantastic Four actor’s ‘private battle’ with cancer

JULIAN McMahon is dead at the age of 56 following a ‘private battle’ with cancer, his family announced in an emotional statement on the 4th of July. 

It was not publicly known that the actor, best known for his starring roles on Nip/Tuck, Fantastic Four, Charmed and FBI: Most Wanted, was sick prior to his death. 

Headshot of Julian McMahon.
Julian McMahon attends The Warner Brothers’ Premiere of The Lake House in LA in 2006
Julian McMahon as Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck.
Channel 4
Julian McMahon as Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck[/caption]

On Friday, Julian’s family announced that he passed away on Wednesday, July 2nd, in Clearwater, Florida after a private cancer battle. 

His wife, Kelly McMahon, said in a statement: “With an open heart, I wish to share with the world that my beloved husband, Julian McMahon, died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer.

“Julian loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans. 

“His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible. We ask for support during this time to allow our family to grieve in privacy.”

Kelly concluded in the heartfelt message she first shared with Deadline: “And we wish for all of those to whom Julian brought joy, to continue to find joy in life. We are grateful for the memories.”

More to follow… For the latest news on this story, keep checking back at The U.S. Sun, your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, sports news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures, and must-see videos.

Like us on Facebook at TheSunUS and follow us on X at @TheUSSun

FBI agents Jess LaCroix and Sheryll Barnes investigating at a construction site.
Getty
Julian is spotted on the NYC set of FBI: MOST WANTED[/caption]

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Fan ‘stretchered out’ after ‘medical emergency’ during Oasis comeback show

AN Oasis fan was rushed out of the reunion concert on a stretcher needing urgent medical attention.

The reveller was carried out of the gig in Cardiff tonight by paramedics after falling ill.

Another member of the crowd claimed the female fan was carried away during the band’s song D’You Know What I Mean.

This comes as Liam and Noel appeared on stage together for the first time in 16 years.

Deafening applause rang out across the Principality Stadium as a sell-out crowd of 74,500 fans watched the brothers blast out iconic hits on the tour’s opening night.

The track F****n’ in the Bushes played in the background as newspaper headlines and tweets flashed up on the big screens before the band walked onto the Principality Stadium stage.

Noel, 58, in a denim shirt, and Liam, 52, sporting his iconic parka jacket, then opened with their 1995 track Hello.

During an emotional rendition of Live Forever towards the end of the set, the band led a tribute to Liverpool player Diogo Jota, who tragically died yesterday.

Famous names including Eastenders star Danny Dyer, actress Vicky McClure and one direction star Louis Tomlinson were in attendance for the performance.

Liam shouted “it’s good to be back” before going into the next song Acquiesce, striking a familiar pose with his hands behind his back.

Before their third song, (What’s the story) Morning Glory? Liam said: “Hello people, it’s been too long.”

He then brought out his iconic tambourine as the band performed Some Might Say.

At a number of points during the set, Noel and Liam were seen affectionately smiling and nodding at one another.

Before going into Cigarettes & Alcohol, Liam told fans to “jump up and down when the tune starts”.

The frenzy literally caused the floor to shake as the band went into Fade Away, Supersonic and Roll With It.

Revellers sang along word-for-word as Noel took the mic to belt out hits Talk Tonight, Half The World Away and Little By Little.

As Liam took a three-song break, Noel made a jibe about rising ticket prices and joked “it’s just gone up”.

Swaggering back out on stage, Liam asked the crowd: “How we getting on then? You’re all looking good.”

He returned to be with his older sibling for Do You Know What I Mean.

Rounding off the mellow segment, the duo continued with Stand By Me and Cast No Shadow.

Joking again about ticket prices, before playing Slide Away, Liam asked: “You’re all having a good time yeah?

“Was it worth the £40,000 you paid for a ticket?”

Oasis also paid tribute to tragic footballer Diogo Jota during their song Live Forever.

A picture of the 28-year-old forward was displayed on screens in the stadium.

Jota’s newlywed wife Ruta is now a widow at 28.

Their three young children lost both a father and an uncle in the terrible early hours crash on a lonely Spanish motorway.

One member of the crowd said: “The live forever tribute for Jota was on a different level. May your soul rest in peace.”

Another penned: “Oasis just dedicated ‘Live Forever’ performance to Diogo Jota tonight. Literally brought a tear to my eye.”

“Seeing that Jota tribute at Oasis has set me off again. Beautiful. How are we never gonna see him again,” agreed a third heartbroken fan.

“The beautiful tribute to Jota during Live Forever had me in tears,” wrote someone else.

As the show came to a close, they player their song Rock n Roll Star and Liam Gallagher launched his tambourine to fans.

Noel Gallagher shouted to the crowd: “This one is for all the people in their twenties that haven’t seen us before, who’ve kept this s*** going for the last f****** 20 years.” 

The Masterplan and Don’t Look Back In Anger were also part of their encore.

Oasis ended their first reunion tour gig with Champagne Supernova.

Liam told the crowd “there are many things I would like to say to you, but I don’t speak Welsh”. 

“Right then, beautiful people, this is it”, he added. “Nice one for putting up with us over the years.” 

The brothers shared a brief hug before the show closed.

Oasis performing live on stage in front of a cheering crowd.
AP
An Oasis fan was rushed out of the concert on a stretcher needing urgent medical attention[/caption]

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Darts fans hail ‘greatest thing I’ve ever seen’ as star lands extremely rare triple-bullseye checkout

THE Modus Super Series has provided darts fans with the fix they needed over the last few days.

And it has certainly not disappointed after a Conan Whitehead landed an epic nine-darter.

Three darts hitting the bullseye of a dartboard; scoreboard shows Thomas Banks and Steve Plumstead's scores.
Thomas Banks hit an incredible treble bull checkout
Darts player Thomas Banks celebrates a win.
The teen star raised his arms in celebration as a PDC ref heaped praise on the rarely-seen checkout

However, that may have now been topped by Thomas Banks after he landed a remarkable 150 checkout… with THREE bulls.

Banks was up against Steve Plumstead in a Group C clash with the score 1-1.

Plumstead, 30, had just hit 133 at the board to bring his score down from 273 to 140.

Banks had 150 to hit or risk his rival being able to checkout.

And the 18-year-old prodigy, tipped to follow Luke Littler to the top of the darts world, made his three throws count.

The cameraman had zoomed in on treble 19, expecting him to aim there.

However, Banks instead went straight for the bull.

That set him on a path to needing two more.

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

And he duly delivered to move 2-1 ahead in the match, turning to the camera with his arms raised out either side of him.

PDC stage official Owen Binks was stunned at the trip.

Taking to social media, he said: “Refereed nearly 6000 matches for this business and that is arguably the greatest thing I’ve seen!!

“TAKE A BOW THOMAS BANKS!!!”

Other fans joined the chorus of applause for The Bulldog.

One fan said: “Top arrows. Don’t think I’ve ever seen that before.”

A second said: “Beautiful that.”

Another said: “There you go, this lad has it. Brilliant darts, just take a bow right now Thomas.”

A fourth added: “Brilliant checkout 150.”

Banks used the momentum of the 150 to win the match 4-1, which had followed a run of four defeats on the spin at the Super Series.

He won the series last year, in similar fashion to Littler who had won it on his route to the PDC before eventually winning the World Championship.

List of all-time Darts World Champions

BELOW is a list of darts world champions by year.

The list does not include winners from the pre-Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) era or BDO world champions.

That means Raymond van Barneveld, for example, is only listed once – Barney also won four BDO titles – and none of Eric Bristow’s five BDO titles are included.

  • 1994 – Dennis Priestley
  • 1995 – Phil Taylor
  • 1996 – Phil Taylor (2)
  • 1997 – Phil Taylor (3)
  • 1998 – Phil Taylor (4)
  • 1999 – Phil Taylor (5)
  • 2000 – Phil Taylor (6)
  • 2001 – Phil Taylor (7)
  • 2002 – Phil Taylor (8)
  • 2003 – John Part
  • 2004 – Phil Taylor (9)
  • 2005 – Phil Taylor (10)
  • 2006 – Phil Taylor (11)
  • 2007 – Raymond van Barneveld
  • 2008 – John Part (2)
  • 2009 – Phil Taylor (12)
  • 2010 – Phil Taylor (13)
  • 2011 – Adrian Lewis
  • 2012 – Adrian Lewis (2)
  • 2013 – Phil Taylor (14)
  • 2014 – Michael van Gerwen
  • 2015 – Gary Anderson
  • 2016 – Gary Anderson (2)
  • 2017 – Michael van Gerwen (2)
  • 2018 – Rob Cross
  • 2019 – Michael van Gerwen (3)
  • 2020 – Peter Wright
  • 2021 – Gerwyn Price
  • 2022 – Peter Wright (2)
  • 2023 – Michael Smith
  • 2024 – Luke Humphries
  • 2025 – Luke Littler

Most World Titles

  • 14 – Phil Taylor
  • 3 – Michael van Gerwen
  • 2 – John Part, Adrian Lewis, Gary Anderson, Peter Wright
  • 1 – Dennis Priestley, Raymond van Barneveld, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price, Michael Smith, Luke Humphries, Luke Littler

Read More »

Explosive Disposal Unit at premises in Irish city following discovery of ‘unexplained device’ as Gardai seal off scene

GARDAI in Limerick have sealed off a premises following the discovery of a suspicious “unexplained” device this evening.

The premises near Foynes, in west County Limerick was sealed off following the find earlier today.

Gardai confirmed they requested the services of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit attached to the Defence Forces to provide assistance at the scene.

Gardai and EOD unit remain at the scene and a cordon has been established.

A Garda spokesman said: “Gardai are currently in attendance at a premises near Foynes, Co Limerick, following the discovery of an unexplained device this afternoon, Friday 4th July 2025.”

“A cordon has been established and the Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team is at the scene. “

“There is no further information available at this time.”

Garda Síochána vehicle door.
Alamy
Gardai are at the scene[/caption]

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Watch the moment Love Island hunk is left stunned as his ex-girlfriend arrives in first look at Casa Amor

A LOVE Island hunk is left stunned as his ex-girlfriend arrives in the villa in the first look at Casa Amor.

The fan-favourite part of the show sees a whole host of stunning bombshells introduced to test the current Islanders.

Screenshot of six women in bikinis walking together.
ITV
Love Island revealed the first look at this year’s Casa Amor[/caption]
Screenshot of a man looking up.
ITV
Villa boy Harry looked stunned to see his ex[/caption]
Screenshot of a woman waving.
ITV
It comes as The Sun revealed the identity of Harry’s ex-girlfriend[/caption]

Meanwhile, the latest episode teased new faces coming to the ITV2 show.

One of them soon leaves villa boy Harry Cooksley very shocked indeed.

Viewers saw Meg announcing the imminent arrival of six new female bombshells.

The new girls made their way to the villa, where they greeted the boys from the

But upon seeing them, Harry could be heard saying: “Oh my god, it’s my ex.”

It comes as The Sun revealed the identity of Harry’s ex-girlfriend – after fans spotted a secret tribute to her.

The Sun uncovered that the woman is named Emma, after viewers noticed Harry’s wrist tattoo of the letter “E” and began digging for clues online.

Emma previously shared a sunset selfie to Instagram, where she was seen cosying up to Harry in matching baseball caps, hers bearing an “E” and, his, an “H”.

The image, which has since been deleted, was dated 18 April 2022.

Emma also bears a striking resemblance to one of Harry’s co-stars, sparking comparisons from fans who claim she looks “more like Shakira than Helena”, Harry’s current partner in the villa.

A Love Island spokesperson declined to comment.

The 30-year-old has been at the centre of much villa drama throughout the current series.

Fans previously branded him a “gaslighter” and demanded he be removed.

Although coupled up with Shakira at the time, it was fellow Islander Helena who got his heart racing the most in the Heart Rate Challenge.

Helena made her desire for him clear when she whispered in Harry’s ear: “I want to f*** you.”

He immediately told Tommy to pass it on to the boys afterwards, and Dejon was left open-mouthed.

During his go, Harry whispered “do you still want to f*** me?” in Helena’s ear.

However, when discussing the results with Shakira afterwards, Harry neglected to tell her what had happened.

Love Island 2025 full lineup

  • Harry Cooksley: A 30-year-old footballer with charm to spare.
  • Shakira Khan: A 22-year-old Manchester-based model, ready to turn heads.
  • Megan Moore: A payroll specialist from Southampton, looking for someone tall and stylish.
  • Alima Gagigo: International business graduate with brains and ambition.
  • Tommy Bradley: A gym enthusiast with a big heart.
  • Helena Ford: A Londoner with celebrity connections, aiming to find someone funny or Northern.
  • Ben Holbrough: A model ready to make waves.
  • Dejon Noel-Williams: A personal trainer and semi-pro footballer, following in his footballer father’s footsteps.
  • Aaron Buckett: A towering 6’5” personal trainer.
  • Conor Phillips: A 25-year-old Irish rugby pro.
  • Antonia Laites: Love Island’s first bombshell revealed as sexy Las Vegas pool party waitress.
  • Yasmin Pettet: The 24-year-old bombshell hails from London and works as a commercial banking executive.
  • Emily Moran: Bombshell Welsh brunette from the same town as Love Island 2024 alumni Nicole Samuel.
  • Harrison Solomon: Pro footballer and model entering Love Island 2025 as a bombshell.
  • Giorgio Russo: The 30-year-old will be spending his summer in the sun, potentially his sister Alessia’s successful tournament at the Euros in Switzerland.

Departures:

  • Kyle Ashman: Axed after an arrest over a machete attack emerged. He was released with no further action taken and denies any wrongdoing.
  • Sophie Lee: A model and motivational speaker who has overcome adversity after suffering life-changing burns in an accident.
  • Blu Chegini: A boxer with striking model looks, seeking love in the villa.
  • Malisha Jordan: A teaching assistant from Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, who entered Love Island 2025 as a bombshell.
  • Shea Mannings: Works as a scaffolder day-to-day and plays semi-pro football on the side.
  • Caprice Alexandra: The 26-year-old bombshell owns a nursery in Romford.
  • Poppy Harrison: The bombshell broke up with her boyfriend after finding out she would be in the villa
  • Will Means: The fourth fittest farmer in the UK according to Farmers’ Weekly in 2023 entered the villa as a bombshell
  • Megan Clarke: An Irish actress part of the OG line-up.
  • Remell Mullins: Boasts over 18million likes and 500k followers on TikTok thanks to his sizzling body transformation videos.

Fans were left unimpressed, as one wrote: “Shakira deserves so much better than Harry, casa amor please save her asap.”

Another added: “they all gaslight shakira??? how is helena saying it’s not deep knowing what her and harry whispered to each other??????”

A third wrote: “Harry mugging off shakira.”

Love Island airs on ITV2 and ITVX.

Screenshot of seven women in bikinis leaning on a balcony.
ITV
Will any heads be turned?[/caption]

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Oasis’ comeback was terrifying & spectacular all at once but there’s an incredible moment I’ll never forget

THE solid concrete floor of the Principality Stadium is shaking so hard I’m scared it might collapse — but the fear is the price I paid to watch the spectacular Oasis comeback.

The set list made me feel like I was being punched in the face, repeatedly, by the Nineties.

Liam Gallagher singing into a microphone onstage.
Liam Gallagher’s vocals were out of this world and above expectations
PA
Noel Gallagher of Oasis performing on stage with a guitar.
Noel’s masterful performance on the guitar will inspire a new generation of musicians
PA

Liam’s vocals were out of this world.

He ought to get an advertising deal with Halls Soothers.

And Noel’s masterful guitar is sure to inspire generations of young musicians.

Like millions, the only hands I ever expected to see the Gallagher brothers putting on each other would be reaching for each others’ throats.

To see them standing as brothers in arms — with guitars rather than guns — is a moment I’ll never forget.

Oasis full set list

1: Hello
2: Acquiesce
3: Morning Glory
4: Some Might Say
5: Bring It On Down
6: Cigarettes & Alcohol
7: Fade Away
8: Supersonic
9: Roll With it
10: Talk Tonight
11: Half The World Away
12: Little By Little
13: D’you Know What I Mean?
14: Stand By Me
15: Cast No Shadow
16: Slide Away
17: Whatever
18: Live Forever
19: Rock ’n’ Roll Star
20: Masterplan
21: Don’t Look Back In Anger
22: Wonderwall
23: Champagne Supernova

Excited Oasis fans at a concert.
Oasis fans were blown away by the floor-shaking performance the band put on
Reuters

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