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‘You spoke and we listened’ – Dublin Airport reveal new terminals feature that’s ‘already big hit with passengers’

DUBLIN Airport has revealed a new feature in terminals that is “already a big hit with passengers”.

The country’s biggest airport sees over 30 million people pass through it each year.

Fast charge station with multiple devices charging.
facebook
The new chargers will make travel a lot easier[/caption]
Airport fast charge station.
facebook
The new charging stations are in piers one, two, and four[/caption]

But one major problem that jet-setters run into is a dead phone battery.

And with wallets, boarding passes, and travel documents stored on phones, having them charged has become an essential part of travelling.

Although some passengers may carry a handy power bank with them, there are those who are left scrambling for a charging port.

Luckily for holidaymakers, Dublin Airport has installed multiple new charging outlets across the airport.

The update came in response to long-standing calls for more charging points to be installed in the complex.

The new charging ports are located in piers one, two, and four.

For now, they are operating on a trial basis.

If the trial run proves a success, the new charging points will be installed fully throughout the airport.

The new stations are fast-charging and have multiple outlets so more than one person can charge their device.

And they cater for wireless and non-wireless charging, as well as USB and USB-C chargers.

Airport bosses took to social media to share the update.

Posting on Facebook, they said: “We want more charging points in the terminals…

“You spoke and we listened! Our new trial charging hubs – located on piers 1,2 and 4 – are already proving a big hit with passengers.

“All going well, we’ll install these throughout both terminals, offering both wired and wireless charging.”

Delighted customers took to the comment section to praise the idea.

One person said: “Awesome, I encountered these in a London train station a few years ago, brilliant idea.”

Another put in: “The wireless charging is a great idea!”

A third put in: “Brilliant. These are excellent. Well done, Dublin Airport.”

And a fourth penned: “Well done, Dublin Airport, you listened and acted.”

Another person commented: “Thank you so, so much.”

Fast charge station with multiple devices charging.
facebook
Airport bosses took to social media to share the update[/caption]

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Gavin and Stacey star reveals surprising secrets his presenter son never knew about him

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Larry and George Lamb on a train

GAVIN and Stacey star Larry Lamb has revealed the surprising things he and his presenter son didn’t know about each other.

The actor, 77, is famous for his role of Mick Shipman in the smash hit BBC One comedy, but he is also well known for the close bond he has with his son, George Lamb, 45.

Larry and George Lamb on a train.
Jack Hall/PinPep
Gavin and Stacey star Larry Lamb has revealed he has secrets his son George doesn’t know[/caption]
Larry Lamb and his son George Lamb embracing at a train station.
Jack Hall/PinPep
The father and son have a very close bond[/caption]
Larry and George Lamb on a train.
Jack Hall/PinPep
The pair opened up about their ‘close’ relationship[/caption]
Larry Lamb as Mick Shipman from Gavin & Stacey.
BBC
Larry is best known for playing Mick Shipman in Gavin and Stacey[/caption]

Father and son duo Larry and George put National Rail’s ‘36 Questions to Connect’ to the test after admitting they rarely get time to really talk.

Gavin and Stacey star Larry said: “I’m so lucky to have a very close relationship with my kids but life’s so busy, it’s often hard to find the time to sit down and have a proper chat, connect, and have those more deep and meaningful conversations – but on the train you can.

“I really enjoyed playing 36 Questions to Connect with my son George, reminiscing on past experiences and sharing a few stories that we didn’t know about each other.

“I didn’t realise he didn’t actually know what my first job was, and there’s a few things I learnt about him too.”

It comes after a survey revealed more than one in 10 adults know more about famous celebrities than their loved ones.

The poll of 2,000 adults found just 29 per cent know who their mum first dated, and even fewer know about their dad’s early love life (19 per cent).

Yet, 34 per cent could correctly identify Chelsy Davy as Prince Harry’s first high-profile girlfriend.

While 26 per cent knew Wayne Rooney’s first car – a Ford SportKa – but only 21 per cent could say the same of their mum’s.

The survey was commissioned by National Rail, on behalf of the rail industry, which has launched a new version of ‘36 Questions’ to help people find out more about their loved ones, and enjoy more meaningful conversations with friends and family.

Psychologist Dr Madeleine Mason Roantree, working with the brand, said: “Many of us assume we know our loved ones better than we actually do.

“But research, and everyday experience, show us that we often have blind spots and gaps in our understanding of those around us.”

The study also found many haven’t asked key questions about themselves, with 40 per cent unaware how they got their name.

But 47 per cent know how at least one of the Beckham kids got their names – with Brooklyn topping the list (37 per cent).

However, not having the time to ask personal questions can lead to regret in later life – of those who’ve lost a parent, 30 per cent wished they had asked about their grandparents.

And 27 per cent longed to speak to them about their happiest memories.

But while 57 per cent want to know more about their loved ones, 21 per cent don’t know what to ask to get the conversation started.

The research also revealed train journeys were considered among the best ways to connect with others.

This was due to the lack of distractions and increased quality time (59 per cent), making the mode of transport the ideal environment for bonding.

Gavin and Stacey's Best Moments

With the news that the show is set to make an exciting return to screens, let's take a look at some of the comedy programme's biggest and best moments...

  • Smithy and Rudi’s American Boy rap – No one will ever forget when James Corden and Sheridan Smith rapped perfectly word for word the Kanye West and Estelle hit American Boy as they walked across the car park on the phone to Gavin.
  • Pam’s Vegetarian faux pas – Despite loving a cheesburger, Pam found herself caught up in a web of unexpected lies when she claimed to be Vegetarian. She is forced to keep up the secret throughout the entire show and uses hubby Mick to help her scoff meat. She is later rumbled when Stacey catches her in the act as she scoffs ham in the kitchen. Stacey says to her: “Is that ham, Pam!?… “I’ve seen you, Pam. A scotch egg here, a bit of bacon there, putting those regular sausages into the Linda McCartney box”.
  • THAT fishing trip – It remains one of the biggest mysteries in Gavin and Stacey history as to just exactly what did happen on the ill-fated fishing trip. Bryn appears to be hiding a secret as to an occurance between him and his nephew Jason which has left relations fractures. Ness’ on-off boyfriend, Dave, is the only other person to know the whole truth. Bryn did appear to allude to him and Jason lying together naked to keep warm as he said to Dave: “We’re going to have this out, once and for all, man to man, you may know what happened, David, but you don’t know why it happened! It was freezing cold, it was! And when you are that cold…”
  • Islands in the Stream – No one can ever forget the classic Karaoke performance of Islands in the Stream. Nessa and Bryn performed the track in front of all their nearest and dearest. It saw the whole pub burst into some line-dancing as they enjoyed a boozy night out.
  • The Xmas special proposal – In 2019, fans were left overjoyed when the show made a comeback but it ended on the ultimate cliffhanger. Nessa asked Smithy if she would marry him as she finally laid bare her feelings for him. Fans were gutted as the show then cut straight to the credits as they never found out just how Smithy answered. Will all be revealed in the brand new episode?

Read More »

Chelsea set to sell £12.5million signing just SIX MONTHS after landing him but include buyback transfer clause

CHELSEA are set to part ways with Mathis Amougou just months after signing him from Saint-Etienne.

The Blues splashed out £12.5million on the highly-rated midfielder and handed him an eight-year deal.

Portrait of Mathis Amougou in a Chelsea jersey.
Getty
Mathis Amougou only ended up playing a game for Chelsea[/caption]
Mathis Amougou signing a Chelsea Football Club contract.
Getty
Getting more game time to develop is key to his decision to move on[/caption]
Mathis Amougou in Chelsea jersey.
Getty
He returns to France where he impressed before joining Chelsea in January[/caption]

But just six months later, he’s heading to Strasbourg in a stunning move that has left fans scratching their heads.

The 19-year-old French prospect was snapped up by Chelsea in a high-profile transfer last January.

He was expected to be the next Moises Caicedo, signed at a time when Romeo Lavia was consistently injured and Carney Chukwuemeka had left for Dortmund.

Chelsea needed cover and turned to Amougou. However, despite high hopes and promise, he has struggled to break into the first-team fold at Stamford Bridge.

He made his debut against Southampton, but that turned out to be his only league appearance for Chelsea.

The Blues have since brought in Andrey Santos and competition for places is even keener this season.

The departure of Santos from Strasbourg and club captain Habib Diarra to Sunderland for a club-record fee means there is now space for Amogou at the French club.

According to L’Equipe, Amogou will sign a five-year deal and will be immediately integrated into the first team, where he will be given a pivotal role.

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

Chelsea FC 2024-25 season statistics for Mathis Amougou.

Chelsea have cleverly inserted a buyback clause which will allow them to bring him back in the future for a set fee.

The Blues have once again had a busy summer, having already completed the signings of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.

They’ve also secured Jamie Gittens from Dortmund, Dario Essugo and Mamadou Sarr.

Brazilian superstar Estevao Willian, who signed last summer, is also set to join for pre-season after impressing at the on-going Club World Cup.

Read More »

I tried stunning wedding guest dress at Dunnes Stores – it’s the perfect staple to have in wardrobe for events

A FASHION fan has told how she tried a stunning dress from Dunnes Stores for a wedding at a bargain price.

Lauren Mullane alerted her followers on TikTok to the new arrival – and it’s now on sale for €20, down from €40.

Woman in navy blue slip dress and white handbag.
Lauren shared a look at the stunning dress on TikTok
Tiktok/@lauren_mullane
Woman in a dark blue backless maxi dress.
It features a stylish cutout at the back
Tiktok/@lauren_mullane
Woman in navy blue maxi dress and white heels.
DUNNES STORES
The dress cost just €40[/caption]

In the caption of the post, she explained that the dress she is wearing is from Dunnes Stores.

She wrote: “Literally the perfect staple dress to have in your wardrobe for weddings, parties etc.”

In the video, she can be seen wearing the stunning silk navy dress, which is perfect for any occasion.

She explained that it’s currently day two of her best friends wedding, and wanted to show viewers her outfit.

Lauren said: “This is the outfit, it’s a navy satin ankle-length, floor-length dress.”

Turning around, she shows that the back has an elegant cut-out, adding a layer of style to the dress.

Speaking about the back of the dress, she added: “It’s really comfy because it has kind of a stretch (elastic band).”

It has short sleeves with a plunging v-neckline, while the satin skirt flows underneath.

She added: “You’ll never guess where it’s from. Dunnes Stores, like can we actually – €40 in Dunnes Stores.

“Such a handy one just to have in your wardrobe for weddings, events, parties – anything.”

She pairs the dress with a white Chanel bag from LMK Drip, along with some silver high heels from ASOS.

Her jewellery is from Swarovski, and she added a pearl headband from Shein.

She described the dress as “stunning,” adding: “I love it.”

The dress is not currently available on the Dunnes Stores website, but may still be stocked in your local shop.

BELLY-FRIENDLY BUY

And shoppers are also set for a frenzy over a brand new belly-friendly dress in stores now.

The retailer has brought out another perfect summer buy, and shoppers are set to love it.

It’s just the latest in a long line of different top summer pieces from the retailer that are now in stores.

Shoppers are set for a frenzy over the Gallery Alba Tunic Dress.

The dress is just €35, and is available in sizes 8 to 20.

The deep blue dress is covered in white floral patterns for a stunning summery vibe.

It features mid-length sleeves with a plunging v-neckline, making it perfect to wear in the warm weather.

The skirt is flowy with a baggy waist, so it’s perfect for anyone who may feel a bit self-conscious.

THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES

DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit.

Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland’s first ‘shopping frenzy’.

During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne’s ‘Better Value’ bargains.

Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 – starting with apples and oranges.

The retailer said: “Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town.

“Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong.

“Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas.”

The retailer’s first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960.

They added: “In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed.

“Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England.”

Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.

Read More »

I tried stunning wedding guest dress at Dunnes Stores – it’s the perfect staple to have in wardrobe for events at €40

A FASHION fan has told how she tried a stunning dress from Dunnes Stores for a wedding at a bargain price.

Lauren Mullane alerted her followers on TikTok to the new arrival.

Woman in navy blue slip dress and white handbag.
Lauren shared a look at the stunning dress on TikTok
Tiktok/@lauren_mullane
Woman in a dark blue backless maxi dress.
It features a stylish cutout at the back
Tiktok/@lauren_mullane
Woman in navy blue maxi dress and white heels.
DUNNES STORES
The dress cost just €40[/caption]

In the caption of the post, she explained that the dress she is wearing is from Dunnes Stores.

She wrote: “Literally the perfect staple dress to have in your wardrobe for weddings, parties etc and only €40 where would you be going wrong????”

In the video, she can be seen wearing the stunning silk navy dress, which is perfect for any occasion.

She explained that it’s currently day two of her best friends wedding, and wanted to show viewers her outfit.

Lauren said: “This is the outfit, it’s a navy satin ankle-length, floor-length dress.”

Turning around, she shows that the back has an elegant cut-out, adding a layer of style to the dress.

Speaking about the back of the dress, she added: “It’s really comfy because it has kind of a stretch (elastic band).”

It has short sleeves with a plunging v-neckline, while the satin skirt flows underneath.

She added: “You’ll never guess where it’s from. Dunnes Stores, like can we actually – €40 in Dunnes Stores.

“Such a handy one just to have in your wardrobe for weddings, events, parties – anything.”

She pairs the dress with a white Chanel bag from LMK Drip, along with some silver high heels from ASOS.

Her jewellery is from Swarovski, and she added a pearl headband from Shein.

She described the dress as “stunning,” adding: “I love it.”

The dress is not currently available on the Dunnes Stores website, but may still be stocked in your local shop.

BELLY-FRIENDLY BUY

And shoppers are also set for a frenzy over a brand new belly-friendly dress in stores now.

The retailer has brought out another perfect summer buy, and shoppers are set to love it.

It’s just the latest in a long line of different top summer pieces from the retailer that are now in stores.

Shoppers are set for a frenzy over the Gallery Alba Tunic Dress.

The dress is just €35, and is available in sizes 8 to 20.

The deep blue dress is covered in white floral patterns for a stunning summery vibe.

It features mid-length sleeves with a plunging v-neckline, making it perfect to wear in the warm weather.

The skirt is flowy with a baggy waist, so it’s perfect for anyone who may feel a bit self-conscious.

THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES

DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit.

Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland’s first ‘shopping frenzy’.

During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne’s ‘Better Value’ bargains.

Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 – starting with apples and oranges.

The retailer said: “Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town.

“Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong.

“Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas.”

The retailer’s first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960.

They added: “In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed.

“Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England.”

Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.

Read More »

Tragic final movements of mum brutally murdered after 1987 gig as gardai issue new plea amid daughters’ emotional vow

THE chilling murder of Antoinette Smith is one of the most horrific unsolved crimes to have occurred in Ireland.

The mum-of-two disappeared after attending the David Bowie gig at Slane Castle on July 11, 1987.

Black and white photo of Antoinette Smith.
Tragic Antoinette Smith disappeared in July 1987
Garda/PA Wire
Photo of Antoinette Smith's daughters holding a poster appealing for information about their mother's unsolved murder.
Antoinette daughters Lisa, left, and Rachel, right, have vowed to fight for justice for their mum
Julien Behal/PA Wire

Antoinette was not seen again until her remains were discovered by three children playing hide and seek after a family picnic on Gleendoo Mountain in south Dublin nine months later, on Easter Monday, 1988.

Antoinette had lay beneath the bogland with two plastic bags tied over her head for nine months and no cause of death could ever be established because of the decomposition of her body.

State Pathologist Professor John Harbison wrote in the post mortem: “Two plastic bags were found over the head, with the inner one knotted tightly around the neck.”

But it has since been revealed that the two plastic bags and rope used to tie the bags by her killer have gone missing in Garda evidence.

A dog walker in an area just two miles from where Antoinette’s body was later found said he had seen a man speaking to another man, neither of whom were dressed for hillwalking, the morning after the young mum was at the Bowie gig.

A taxi driver claimed that he had picked up two men and woman who looked like Antoinette near O’Connell Street at around 3:30am on the night she vanished and brought them to Rathfarnham village.

But, almost four decades after she was brutally killed, no person has ever been arrested or charged in relation to Antoinette’s murder.

As today marks 38 years since her disappearance, Gardai issued an appeal for any information, no matter how small or irrelevant it may seem, that may assist in their investigation.

A spokesperson said: “It is now 38 years since Antoinette Smith was last seen on O’Connell Street, Dublin.

“Gardai at Bray Garda Station are renewing their appeal to the public for assistance and information in relation to the disappearance and murder of Antoinette Smith.

“Gardai are appealing to those who may have information since 1987, or who may have come into possession of information in the intervening years, to come forward.

“Gardai are urging individuals, who 38 years on may want to come forward, to do so, especially if relationships/ associations may have changed over the years.

“Gardai are anxious to assure the public that they will treat anyone assisting the investigation in a sensitive manner.

“Anyone with information can contact Gardaí in Bray at 01 666 5300, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.”

FINAL MOVEMENTS

On July 11, 1987, Antoinette and a friend attended the Bowie concern in Slane before returning to Dublin by bus, arriving at Parnell Square at around 11pm.

Antoinette had arranged for her two children, aged seven and four, to spend that night with their father Karl, leaving her free for the night. 

After arriving back in Dublin city centre, Antoinette and her friend went clubbing at the La Mirage Discotheque on Parnell Street.

They met two men they knew while in the nightclub and remained with them until they all left shortly after 2am.

Antoinette’s friend parted company when they left the club – but gave her a key to her house before she left – whilst Antoinette remained and spoke to the two men until all three walked the short distance to the taxi rank on O’Connell Street.

The men got a taxi to the Ballymun area, while Antoinette continued to walk by the Gresham Hotel on O’Connell Street towards O’Connell Bridge.

These were the last known movements of the 27-year-old woman, who was subsequently reported missing to Gardai by her husband.

HUSBAND TREATED AS SUSPECT

Antoinette’s innocent husband Karl Smith previously told us how he’d been treated as a suspect at the time.

He believes the mum of his girls Rachel and Lisa was possibly the victim of a serial killer.

Karl said: “I last saw her on the day of the concert and she was in great form — she certainly wasn’t under any type of duress.

“We were separated at the time but we had many happy years together after our wedding in 1979 and it was wonderful to have two lovely daughters.

“When she didn’t turn up I thought she might have been with her friends or something.

“The last thing I would have thought was that she had been abducted or murdered.”

Karl said he was in the car with his father in Easter 1998 when he heard on the radio that a body had been found near the Lemass monument on Glendoo Mountain.

He said: “I knew I would have been treated as a suspect because there were other women at the time who were murdered by their husbands.

“I was treated as a suspect when the real killer was still out there. I know they had to look at all angles but it wasn’t a very nice ­experience.

“I wasn’t even allowed to identify her — I wasn’t allowed near the morgue. I never even got to tell my children their mother was dead.”

FAMILY’S PAIN

Antoinette’s daughters, Lisa and Rachel, have vowed they will continue to fight for justice for their mum for as long as it takes.

Antoinette’s eldest daughter Lisa said: “We are reminded of the day she vanished, the day her remains were recovered and every time we hear about violence against women.

“Our mother saw the worst of humanity and yet that person could still be out there today.”

She added: “When my mam was brutally taken from us that type of crime was rare in Ireland but it’s a lot more prevalent now.

“If someone was convicted over my mam’s case it would send a strong message that extreme forms of violence against women will not be tolerated.

“It’s disgusting no one has been held accountable for ­committing such a horrific attack on another human being.

“It’s awful to think that a young woman who simply went out to a concert never came home. It’s horrific to think that I could go to concert and not get home to my kids.

“When we see other cases of violence against women it just brings trauma back for us.”

mum on the day of the Slane concert, adding: “I want to know what she was like that day.

“Was she in good form, did she talk about Lisa and I, and did she enjoy the concert?

“If there are people who were interviewed at the time by Gardai I would ask them to search their conscience and come forward again. We are entitled to have our questions answered after all this time.”

Photo of Antoinette Smith.
Antoinette disappeared after attending the David Bowie gig at Slane Castle on July 11, 1987
Garda/PA Wire
Woman placing flowers at a memorial site.
Rachel Smith pictured near the scene of where her mothers remains were discovered at the Glendoo Mountain
Paddy Cummins - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin
Antoinette Smith's daughters hold a Crimestoppers appeal poster.
Lisa was only seven-years-old and Rachel was four at the time of their mum’s disappearance
Crispin Rodwell - The Sun Dublin

Read More »

Axed Love Islanders Gio and Emily break their silence after shocking twist that saw them booted out of villa

AXED Love Islanders Giorgio “Gio” Russo and Emily Moran have broken their silence after a brutal twist saw them dumped from the villa.

Undoubtedly one of the most savage Casa Amor recouplings the show’s seen in years, viewers were left stunned when the two groups reunited around the fire pit.

Maya Jama at a Love Island recoupling.
Emily was shocked to find out Tommy had come back with someone else
Eroteme
A man in a white robe sits during a Love Island recoupling.
Gio took it in his stride as he hadn’t connected with anyone
Eroteme
A woman crying.
Emily got upset as she spoke to Tommy afterwards
Eroteme

Emily, who had hoped Tommy would return to the villa alone, was visibly upset when he came back holding hands with Casa Amor girl Lucy.

Emily’s pals were also shocked, mouthing the words “f**k off” repeatedly as the new couple strutted over to the group.

Before Casa Amor, Welsh lass Emily and gardener Tommy looked to be on to a good thing after they were both hurt by their previous partners, Conor and Megan.

After the revelation, host Maya Jama asked how she was feeling to which she replied that Tommy is “not the boy we all thought he was.”

Meanwhile, Gio, who had been coupled up with Billykiss, was forced to pack his bags when his partner decided to recouple.

Now, just hours after being shown the door, the pair have now lifted the lid on what really went down.

Emily explained: “I sort of got the vibe that Tommy hadn’t been loyal as none of the boys would look at me at the firepit.

“I knew as soon as I stood up that the boy was coming back with someone else but when I heard the heels and saw him in front of me, it sunk in.

“With Tommy it would be hard to be friends now, I do still think he’s a good person, but right now it’s very fresh, my feelings are hurt. The dust needs to settle.”

Meanwhile, despite Gio having been given the greenlight to bring back someone new from his friendship partner Billykiss, the Italian decided to return alone.

He revealed: “None of the girls were 100% my type in Casa Amor, but I got on well with Yaz initially and tried to make something work that could have potentially sparked, but it didn’t really turn out that way.

“I know what it’s like being brought back to the Villa in a non-starter couple, so I didn’t want to put Yaz in that situation.”

He added: “There wasn’t really anyone in there for me but it was great to see some of the other boys have instant connections.

“I’m not sure Conor and Emma will last. I’m not sure of Emma’s real motive of going into the Villa.

“I think Ben and Andrada are a firework waiting to happen. I think she has her eye on D, so I don’t think that one is going to end well to be honest.”

Maya Jama reacting during a Love Island recoupling.
Meg couldn’t stop swearing when Tommy walked in with someone else
Eroteme
A man and woman from Love Island stand together.
He chose to recouple with Lucy
Eroteme
A man and woman sitting on a couch, talking.
The former couple had a heart to heart
Eroteme
Man covering his face with his hand, appearing upset.
Tommy looked upset by the situation
Eroteme
Emily and Giorgio from Love Island saying goodbye.
Emily looked sad to be leaving the show
Eroteme

Read More »

The 5 biggest mistakes you’re making washing your swimwear – and how to avoid them

WITH the weather hotting up at home and thousands of Scots sizzling abroad, cooling down in a pool is essential.

But the experts say we have been washing our swimwear all wrong – and it’s getting tatty before it needs to.

Red bikini hanging on a clothesline.
The expert says don’t hang swimwear on the line

If you feel like your bikini seems to wear out after just one or two holidays, you’re not alone.

New research from Pour Moi found that one in three UK adults only get one holiday or summer out of their swimwear before it starts to lose quality. 

It might be tempting to blame the synthetic fabrics swimwear is made from, but Rosie Webbon, Swimwear Buyer at Pour Moi, warns that the nation’s laundry habits might be what’s doing the most damage.

To help your swimwear stay in shape beyond just one summer, she has highlighted five of the most common swimwear care mistakes – and how to avoid them.

Skipping the pre-swim rinse

The idea of showering before jumping into a large pool of water might seem redundant, but it’s essential for protecting your swimwear, says Rosie.

She added: “Swimsuits are designed for resilience to getting wet, but over time, water containing salts, minerals, and chemicals like chlorine will eventually break down the elasticity of your swimwear.

“Rinsing first isn’t just a recommended hygiene practice; it also helps to fill the materials of your swimwear with fresh water, meaning your suit absorbs less of the salted or chlorinated water.”

Using harsh detergents

Many of us wash our swimwear with soap in the hotel bathroom while on holiday, and Rosie Webbon says this is far more effective than throwing it in the machine with the rest of our holiday clothes when we get home.

She added: “Unlike some of our other clothes, your swimwear doesn’t need a tough detergent. Instead, use a mild one that won’t ruin the fabric or your skin.

“For stubborn stains like suncream, a small amount of baking soda can help, but be sure to test the mixture on a small area first.

“It’s also important not to use fabric conditioner, as it can soften elastic and cause it to stretch, resulting in your swimwear losing its original shape.”

Washing in the machine 

The expert recommends washing all your swimwear by hand to keep the original fit and support for much longer.

It’s particularly important to hand-wash any swimwear that contains a wire.

Rosie says: “Not only will you reduce the lifespan of the item if you don’t, but you could even damage your washing machine if it comes out. 

“For the best results, hand wash your swimwear inside out with a mild detergent. Simply fill your sink with cool water, add a small amount of detergent, and use a microfibre cloth to massage the product into the fabric gently.”

However, if you do opt for the washing machine, ensure you put it on a delicate cycle and place your swimwear within a mesh laundry bag to help it maintain its shape and prevent any straps or drawstrings from tangling.

Leaving it rolled in a towel after a swim 

After spending the day at the beach or pool, avoid leaving your wet swimwear rolled up in a towel at the bottom of your bag. 

Stuffing it in the bottom of your swim bag puts extra stress on the fabric and allows chlorine or salt to sit longer, which can lead to mildew growth and lingering odours. 

Rosie said: “As such, it’s vital to rinse and hand wash your swimsuit as quickly as possible after use to help remove any chemical, minerals, or salt deposits within the material.”

Not laying it flat to dry 

Wringing excess water out of swimwear might feel satisfying, but it’s one of the easiest ways to stretch and misshape the fabric.

Hanging your swimsuit outside might seem like a good idea when it’s nice and sunny, but hanging it can stretch it out, and direct sunlight can cause the colours to fade. Your swimsuit should never be tumble-dried under any circumstances, either.

Instead, Rosie recommends gently pressing out any excess water with your hands and laying your swimsuit flat on a clean, dry towel in a shaded, well-ventilated place to preserve its shape.

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Gretchen Barretto Issues: From Family Feuds To Missing Sabungeros

Here are some issues of Gretchen Barretto, despite being away from the limelight for many years now. GRETCHEN BARRETTO – The former actress has stepped out of the limelight for decades now, but still found herself tied to many issues. For many years now, Gretchen Barretto has largely stepped away from acting and from any ... Read more

The post Gretchen Barretto Issues: From Family Feuds To Missing Sabungeros appeared first on PhilNews.

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Hit Netflix reality show given a third series with biggest ever prize pot

AN acclaimed Netflix reality show looks set to return for a third series with an even bigger prize pot.

Ahead of the premiere of the second series, Netflix has confirmed that Squid Game: The Challenge will also have a third series.

Squid Game: The Challenge contestants in green tracksuits.
PETE DADDS/NETFLIX
Squid Game: The Challenge has been handed a third series[/caption]
Squid Game: The Challenge set with a large doll, countdown timer, and masked figures.
PETE DADDS/NETFLIX
The second series of the show is still yet to air[/caption]

The reality competition show was spawned as a spin-off of the acclaimed drama series, Squid Game.

In one of TV’s biggest jackpots, players have the chance to win up to a whopping $4.56million.

It launched with a first series last year and earlier this week, Netflix confirmed that a second series would land in November this year.

It is expected that the third series will follow next year.

The challenge show has become known for its notoriously tough tasks – some of which have pushed contestants to the limit.

One contestant on the first series previously lifted the lid on what filming was like for the programme.

Elliott Burgess was number 429 in the show out of a total of 456 players.

The Surrey-based contestant reached the second-to-last challenge and secured 7th place when the winner, Mai, discovered his involvement through his suspicious beard scratch.

Elliot revealed that contestants were allowed 10 minutes of fresh air every two days and had no contact with the outside world.

They had no idea what time it was, as the masked men decided when it was lights out.

Elliott assumed he had gotten enough sleep. But he was starving.

He recalled: “It was tough because they had to keep it as immersive as possible. It’s $4.56m, they’re not just going to give you that for free. They had to make it as challenging as possible”.

Squid Game: The Challenge returns 4th November on Netflix.

A crying Squid Game contestant.
NETFLIX
The reality show is known for being intense[/caption]

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