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Axed Love Island star Megan makes promise to Conor after shock dumping leaves him single

LOVE Island’s Megan will tonight make a promise to Conor following her shock axe.

The 24-year-old was voted the least popular girl on Friday after an ugly split from Tommy.

Megan Forte Clarke and Conor Phillips from Love Island saying goodbye.
Shutterstock Editorial
Megan and Conor say goodbye[/caption]
Man covering his mouth with hands at the fire pit on Love Island.
Conor is left devastated by Megan’s dumping
Eroteme
Shakira from Love Island at the fire pit.
Eroteme
Megan was voted least popular girl[/caption]

Moments before her exit, Megan prepares to say farewell to Conor who she grew close to in recent days.

“Will you wait for me?” Conor asks Megan.

She replies: “Yeah, I’ll wait for you.”

However, Conor doesn’t offer to leave the villa alongside Megan, who he spent the night with in the Hideaway.

After some emotional goodbyes to Megan and least popular boy Remell, the dumped pair leave the Villa.

Conor tells Ben by the Firepit: “I hand on heart do not think that anyone is going to come through that door that I fancy more than Megan… I look at her like a girlfriend on the outside.”

Meanwhile on the Daybeds, Toni and Yasmin reflect on who was in the bottom six.

Toni says: “Ben was in the bottom, do you think that humbles him?”

Yasmin replies: “I think that should humble him, even more so because I wasn’t standing there as well.”

Love Island continues tonight at 9pm.

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B&Q is selling a £120 barbecue for just £36, and it’s even got a secret compartment to make cleaning it a doddle

THERE’S nothing worse than finishing a feast of barbecued food only to remember that you’ve still got to clean it.

So anything that can make the dreaded job even a little quicker and easier is a bonus.

Pedroso charcoal barbecue box with adjustable grid.
facebook/extremecouponingandbargainsuk
One shopper was thrilled when she spotted this charcoal barbecue reduced in her local B&Q[/caption]
Clearance sign: Pedroso adjustable charcoal BBQ, 950 x 550mm, reduced from £120 to £36.
facebook/extremecouponingandbargainsuk
It was down from £120 to just £36 – but the offer is only on in select stores[/caption]
Burger patties grilling on a barbecue.
Alamy
There’s nothing more annoying than finishing a barbecue, only to remember you’ve still got to clean it all ready for next time[/caption]

In the case of a B&Q barbecue bargain, that added bonus is a secret compartment underneath the charcoal tray.

The ash drawer collects all the remnants and dust from the coal in one place, meaning it’s easy to chuck it away when the device has cooled down.

It’s part and parcel of the Pedroso Adjustable Charcoal BBQ, which usually retails for £120 in the DIY store.

However, one shopper managed to pick one of the barbecues up for just £36 – a whopping 70% off the original price.

Pam delightedly took to the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group on Facebook to share her epic find, posting pictures of the “absolute bargain” she’d found in the Blackburn store.

She also shared a snap of the sign which said the barbecue had been marked down to “clearance” price.

But other people in the comments section said that when they’d checked in their local stores, it’s still priced at £120.

“Must be in an store offer,” Pam added.

“I’ve just spoke to my local store and they’re definitely £120,” another wrote.

To which a B&Q employee replied: “Try other local stores.

“We have had them in ours.

“Keep checking too as we got another pallet of them a few days after we sold the first.”

And someone else said that the B&Q in Poole, Dorset, had three of the clearance barbecues left when they’d last checked.

“OMG I NEED!” another commented on Pam’s post.

“That’s good, I’ll go and get one!” someone else declared.

The Pedroso barbecue is one of B&Q’s most popular products, thanks to the “large cooking surface”, thermometer and year’s guarantee.

Government advice on BBQ safety

The UK Government have issued some guidelines for staying safe whilst using a barbecue:

  • Keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.
  • Follow the safety instructions provided with your gas, charcoal, or disposable barbecue.
  • Never use a barbecue indoors, in a tent, under an awning or in a caravan.
  • Use enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue, but not more (normally around 5cms or 2 inches).
  • Keep children, pets and garden games away from the cooking area.
  • After cooking, make sure the barbecue is cool before moving it.
  • Empty ashes onto bare garden soil, not into dustbins or wheelie bins. If they’re hot, they can melt the plastic and cause a fire.
  • Make sure your barbecue is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs or garden waste.
  • In the countryside or public park areas, only use disposable barbecues where there are specially designated areas and carefully follow the safety guidance.
  • Enjoy yourself, but don’t drink too much alcohol if you are in charge of the barbecue.
  • Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue; use only recognised lighters or starter fuels on cold coals.

“You can adjust the temperature of the barbecue by adjusting the height of the charcoal tray using a crank, ideal for obtaining the perfect cooking of your food,” B&Q wrote of the barbecue on their website.

“Its side shelf will allow you to place your ingredients, and it also has hooks, practical for hanging your grill tongs.”

Black barbecue grill on stand with wheels.
b&Q
The barbecue comes with a secret compartment to catch the ash – making it easier and quicker to clean[/caption]

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Man, 28, arrested on suspicion of murder as pregnant mother-of-two, 27, who died in Down property named

A MAN in his 20s has been arrested after a 27-year-old pregnant woman was died in a Down property.

The PSNI confirmed they have a arrested a man, 28, following the discovery yesterday and a murder investigation has been launched.

They have named the woman as 27-year-old as mother-of-two Sarah Montgomery.

They have also confirmed she was pregnant at the time of her death.

Detective Chief Inspector Tom Phillips said: “Police received a report at approximately 2.15pm on Saturday afternoon, 28th June of an unconscious woman with a serious injury inside a house in the Elmfield Walk area of the town.

“Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service who provided medical treatment at the scene.

“Sadly the woman, who has been named as 27-year-old Sarah Montgomery, a mother-of-two, and confirmed to have been pregnant at the time of her death, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, and remains in police custody assisting with enquiries.

“Enquiries are at an early stage into this deeply tragic case. Our thoughts are also with Sarah’s family during this incredibly difficult time – as they struggle to come to terms with what has happened.
“Sarah’s family are being supported by specially trained officers as the investigation continues.”

North Area Chief Inspector Yvonne McManus added: “We understand this news will cause shock and concern within the community. Local people will see our officers in and around the area – with cordons still in place today.

“Should anyone have any concerns or want to ask for help or advice, please speak to us. We want to help.

“We recognise the profound impact that violence against women and girls has on individuals, families and wider society.

“Addressing this issue remains a key priority, and we are committed to engaging directly with the local community to offer support, build trust, and help people feel safe.

“I am appealing to anyone who believes they may have information which could assist us with our investigation to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 865 28/06/25.”

Portrait of Sarah Montgomery.
PSNI
Police have named the mum[/caption]

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Sheffield United ready to splash £6million on Tottenham defender who has never played for Spurs

SHEFFIELD UNITED are ready to pay a stunning £6million for Ashley Phillips  — if Tottenham change their minds.

The Blades want the centre-half, 20, who spent the season on loan at Stoke.

Ashley Phillips of Tottenham Hotspur dribbling the ball.
Ashley Phillips is wanted by Sheffield United
Shutterstock Editorial

But they have been rebuffed as new Spurs boss Thomas Frank wants to include him.

Phillips joined Tottenham from Blackburn for a fee of £2m in 2023 after just 14 senior appearances.

But the England Under-20s star is yet to play for Tottenham’s first-team.

He went on loan to Plymouth Argyle for the 2023/24 season and won their Young Player of the Year award.

And last season he caught the eye with Stoke and helped them avoid relegation by two points.

Phillips is of interest to Sheffield United, who SunSport exclusively revealed have axed top scouts in favour of an Anglo-American AI talent spotting company to find new players.

Tottenham’s £6m valuation of Phillips is similar to the price tag they have put on midfield magician Alfie Devine, 20.

Spurs are yet to decide on his future after his spell on loan at Westerlo in Belgium.

BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS

Meanwhile, Sheffield United are hope to bring back midfielder Tommy Doyle from Wolves on loan but face a fight with Birmingham.

Ruben Selles is now in charge at Bramall Lane after Chris Wilder was sacked.

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Lord of the Rings star breaks down in tears after making surprise appearance on stage at Glastonbury

A HOLLYWOOD icon broke down in tears after his surprise appearance on the Glastonbury stage.

The London-born Lord Of the Rings actor stunned fans with his cameo in the Woodsies tent on Saturday evening, taking to the stage in a bold patterned longline jacket.

Scissor Sisters performing at Glastonbury Festival.
Getty
A Hollywood icon broke down in tears following a surprise Glastonbury set with the Scissor Sisters[/caption]
Ian McKellen crying at a surprise appearance.
BBC
Sir Ian McKellen was overcome with emotion after his stint on stage[/caption]
Ian McKellen at a microphone, appearing emotional.
BBC
He read out lyrics during the band’s track, Invisible Light[/caption]
Photo of people at a Pride parade.
Sir Ian McKellen is known for playing Gandalf in the LOTR series
Rex Features

Sir Ian McKellen, known for playing Gandalf in the hit movie series, lent his signature deep voice and vocal talents to the Scissor Sisters setlist.

During the track Invisible Light, the 86-year-old could be heard reading out the words as the electro pop group – led by frontman Jake Shears – danced around.

After his surprise stint on stage, the group went on to delight Glastonbury-goers with their signature tracks including Take Your Mama.

As he returned to his spot in the crowd, Sir Ian was met with chants of his name.

The X-Men actor looked extremely bashful before holding his head in his hands and choking back emotion.

In the sweet clip posted to BBC Radio 2’s Instagram account, a caption read: “Sir Ian McKellen getting some well deserved Glasto love!”

A fan then wrote: “Whyyyyyyy is he ALWAYS not sure why we love him
love him. He is so humble. And supremely funny.”

A second put: “The man is a national treasure.”

A third then posted: “He’s such a darling!!!”

FAN FURY

For those watching the Scissor Sisters set at home, they faced a barrage of technical issues.

The highly anticipated sets were pulled off air due to technical blunders throughout the day, leaving many fans staring at error messages on their screens.

The outage hit certain devices and platforms, sparking a wave of complaints online as users demanded answers.

For those watching on iPlayer, the main Saturday feed also suffered huge technical difficulties.

Those wanting to watch Scissor Sisters were greeted with an apology message emblazoned on the screen.

Glastonbury 2025 - confirmed acts so far

TICKETS to the 2025 festival sold out in just minutes before some of the acts were even confirmed. Here is who has been confirmed so far.

Confirmed headliners:

  • The 1975 will take to the Pyramid Stage on Friday.
  • Neil Young will headline the festival for the second time after his last set in 2009 on Saturday after RAYE makes her return.
  • Charli xcx will headline the Other Stage on Saturday night.
  • On Sunday, Olivia Rodrigo is due to belt out her hits for her first appearance while Rod Stewart will perform in the legends slot.
  • More acts to appear on the Other Stage include Loyle Carner and The Prodigy.
  • Doechii will make her Glastonbury debut on the West Holts Stage on Saturday night.
  • Other names confirmed include Noah Kahan, Alanis Morissette, Gracie Abrams, Busta Rhymes, Lola Young, Brandi Carlile, Myles Smith, En Vogue, Amaarae, Cymande, Shaboozey, Osees and Gary Numan.

Writing on X – formerly known as Twitter – one expletive-filled fan fumed: “F****** hell @BBC you cut Blossoms short and now Scissor Sisters when it’s just a black screen.

Sort it out.”

Ian McKellen at Glastonbury, appearing emotional on stage.
BBC
The London-born star cut a striking figure in a patterned longline jacket[/caption]
Ian McKellen overcome with emotion at a surprise appearance.
BBC
He put his face in his hands as the crowd shouted his name[/caption]
Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters performing on stage with a large inflatable pair of scissors.
Getty
The band belted out a number of classics including Take Your Mama[/caption]

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Thai Lotto Bangkok Special Winning Number Vip Tips 01-07-2025

Thai Lotto Bangkok Special Winning Number Vip Tips 01-07-2025 by Viplottotips.com is a prediction or tip offering a guaranteed winning number for the upcoming lottery draw. It is designed to help players by providing a single number that is believed to have the highest chance of being drawn on 1st July 2025. Keep in mind, …

The post Thai Lotto Bangkok Special Winning Number Vip Tips 01-07-2025 appeared first on Thailand Lottery Result 1st July 2025 Win Thai Lottery.

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I tasted 9 protein bars – all were delicious but most were packed with nasty ingredients or sugar

THE words ‘high protein’ are stamped on pretty much every food these days. 

There’s protein bread, protein pizzas, protein ice-cream and even protein water.

Woman holding various protein bars.
Darren Fletcher
Lucy Gornall tried a number of protein bars – were they delicious as well as nutritious?[/caption]

But one of the easiest protein products to reach for is the protein bar. 

In the 1970s, bodybuilders and athletes used them to aid muscle growth and recovery.

But they became mainstream by the 1990s, and in 2025, more than a fifth of us eat them every single week.

The global protein bar market is now thought to be worth a staggering $14.2billion and is only set to rise. 

But are protein bars actually healthy, and are some better than others? 

Experts say they can be, but some contain nasty ingredients, with links to gut issues.

Here’s the lowdown. 

WHAT IS PROTEIN?

PROTEIN is an essential macronutrient.

It’s needed for healthy muscles, skin, hair, hormones and a strong immune system.

Good sources include meat, fish, eggs, tofu, beans and dairy, to name just a few.

But when we don’t have time to whip up a meal or we need an alternative to sugar-laden biscuits and fatty crisps, many of us turn to protein bars. 

Man eating an energy bar outdoors.
Getty
Protein bars have become so popular that even brands known for their chocolate make them – but the nutrition on the label reveals the ones worth trying[/caption]

Protein bars offer a convenient, on-the-go option to easily increase your intake. But are they as healthy as we think?

As a personal trainer, health writer and general wellness and fitness fanatic, I decided to pay several to the test, and ask experts for their verdict too. 

BodyMe Turmeric Lemon Protein bar: 5/5

Price: £32 for 12 (from Body Me)

  • Protein: 16.4g per 60g bar (27.3g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 15.7g per 60g bar (26.2g per 100g)
  • Fat: 10.8g per 60g bar (18g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 2.5g per 60g bar (4.2g per 100g)
  • Calories: 155 per 60g bar (258 per 100g)
BodyMe Turmeric Lemon vegan protein bar.
BodyMe
BodyMe Turmeric Lemon Protein bar[/caption]
Woman taking a bite of a protein bar.
Darren Fletcher
Lucy called the BodyMe protein bar a “definite winner”[/caption]

A VEGAN-friendly bar with 16g of plant protein from a mix of peas, brown rice and hemp, registered nutritionist Claire Hitchen says that this “fits the bill for a more whole food-based option”.

“Hemp has a higher fibre content and is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids,” she adds.

“This bar doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners or other additives and the ingredients are all organic too, which can help to reduce your exposure to pesticides and other chemicals.”

Taste test: This flavour makes a change from the usual peanut butter and chocolate protein bars that I’m used to.

The strong lemon flavour makes it taste a little like lemon meringue pie, however it’s not overly sweet. 

I like how fudgy it is, without tearing my teeth out with every bite. A definite winner! 

Protein Ball Co High Protein Peanut Butter Energy Balls: 5/5

Price: £18.99 for 10 bags (from The Protein Ball Co

  • Protein: 10g per 45g bag (22.1g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 16.1g per 45g bag (35.7g per 100g)
  • Fat: 8.2g per 45g bag (18.3g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 2.7g per 45g bag (6g per 100g) 
  • Calories: 188 per 45 bag (417 per 100g)
Ten packages of peanut butter protein balls.
Protein Ball Co
Protein Ball Co High Protein Peanut Butter Energy Balls[/caption]

“MADE largely with dates and nuts, this is a whole food-based product that provides better nutritional value than most other ‘protein’ bars and snacks,” says Claire.

“The 10g of protein per pack comes from the nuts, as well as whey protein isolate, which is considered to be a high-quality protein that’s absorbed well and can help with muscle gain and cardiometabolic health.”

It has the benefit of added vitamin D3, which supports bone health, mood regulation and immune function, and it’s free from artificial sweeteners.

Taste test: Like sweet, nutty, chewy balls of goodness, I love the nut lumps in these balls.

They’re super squidgy and delicious, and pretty healthy! 

Holland & Barrett Triactive Pistachio and Cranberry bar: 4.5/5

Price: £2.50 (from Holland & Barrett

  • Protein: 8.7g per 50g bar (17g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 11g per 50g bar (23g per 100g)
  • Fat: 14g per 50g bar (28g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 6.7g per 50g bar (13g per 100g)
  • Calories: 250 per 50g bar (500 per 100g)
Holland & Barrett TriActive pistachio and cranberry bar.
Holland & Barrett
Holland & Barrett Triactive Pistachio and Cranberry bar[/caption]

PRIMARILY made from peanuts, pistachios, dried cranberries and oats, this bar contains 8.7g of protein, which is slightly less than many others out there.

However, it does also contain 6.7g of fibre, which Claire says is a “plus” for this type of product.

“This has added B vitamins and magnesium which is a positive, but the type of magnesium included is magnesium oxide, which is less easily used by the body and may act as a laxative,” adds Claire.

Taste test: This is very tough on the jaw but tastes delicious. You wouldn’t think it was a protein bar. 

The pistachio lumps are great and I felt considerably full after eating a whole bar.

4. The Fast 800 Dark Chocolate Raspberry Protein Bar: 4/5

Price: £26.99 for 12 (from The Fast 500

  • Protein: 14g per 45g bar (30g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 1g per 45g bar (2.3g per 100g)
  • Fat: 10g per 45g bar (22g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 9g per 45g bar (20g per 100g)
  • Calories: 192 per 45g bar (426 per 100g)
Dark chocolate raspberry protein bar surrounded by raspberries and chocolate pieces.
The Fast 800
The Fast 800 Dark Chocolate Raspberry Protein Bar[/caption]

EACH bar contains 14g of protein, coming from vegan sources like pea and rice.

“This product also contains 9g of fibre (nearly a third of your recommended daily fibre intake), seemingly from the added chicory root fibre – a prebiotic fibre that feeds beneficial gut bacteria,” says Claire.

“Be careful though, as this could trigger bloating and gas in some people, particularly in excess. 

“This bar also uses artificial sweeteners (a polyol called xylitol), which can trigger gut issues and have laxative effects, particularly if you’re eating them regularly.”

Taste test: Dark chocolate raspberry seems to be a popular protein bar choice but I’m here for it.

This tastes like a chocolate bar but knowing it’s not filled with cr** makes me feel much less guilty.

5. Warrior Crunch Fudge Brownie: 3.5/5

Price: £2.08 (from Asda)

  • Protein: 20g per 64g bar (31g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 2.1g per 64g bar (3.3g per 100g)
  • Fat: 11g per 64g bar (17g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 0g per 64g bar (0g per 100g)
  • Calories: 239 per 64g bar (374 per 100g) 
Warrior Crunch Fudge Brownie high protein, low sugar bar.
Warrior
Warrior Crunch Fudge Brownie[/caption]

Cheap high protein foods

Lucy Gornall reveals some of the best protein sources that won't break the bank:

  1. Tinned fish
    • Mackerel 15g per 100g
    • Tuna 25g per 100g
    • Sardines and salmon 17g per 100g
  2. Cottage cheese
    • 10g per 100g
  3. Plain/Greek yoghurt 
    • 4 to 10.5g per 100g; Greek yoghurt has more protein than plain or natural yoghurt, but the former is more expensive  
  4. Stewing cuts of meat 
    • Beef shin – 20 to 22g per 100g
    • Lamb shoulder – 17 to 20g per 100g
    • Oxtail – 19.6g per 100g 
  5. Non-Gmo tofu 
    • Firm tofu 12 to 16g per 100g
    • Silken tofu 6.5g per 100g

WITH an impressive 20g of protein per bar, which Warrior says is “almost as much as a chicken breast”, this is a handy way to top up your protein.

But Claire warns: “It’s not just about the protein. In a chicken breast, you’d get the protein alongside lots of other important nutrients, including B vitamins, zinc, iron, selenium and more.”

She says that despite this bar being “low sugar”, the artificial sweeteners used to replace it, known as polyols (sugar alcohols), can trigger gut symptoms, especially in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

“They’re approved for safe use as food additives, however more research is being done and the European Food Standards Association is currently re-evaluating the safety of maltitol, which is used in this bar.”

Healthline says: “After eating maltitol, some people experience stomach pains and gas. It can also act similarly to a laxative and cause diarrhoea

“The severity of these side effects depends on how much of it you eat and how your body reacts to it.”

Taste test: This tastes rich, exactly like a naughty brownie. 

The colourful little edible balls add an extra crunch and the bar generally is just the right amount of chewy.

6. Free Soul Chocolate Caramel and Peanut Vegan protein bar

Price: £16 for 12 (from FreeSoul)

  • Protein: 16.5g per 50g bar (33g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 0.5g per 50g bar (0.9g per 100g)
  • Fat: 6g per 50g bar (12.1g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 3.6g per 50g bar (7.1g per 100g)
  • Calories: 159 per 50g bar (319 per 100g)
Free Soul Chocolate Caramel & Peanut Vegan Protein Bar (50g)
Free Soul
Free Soul Chocolate Caramel and Peanut Vegan Protein Bar[/caption]

THESE are described as “incredibly delicious, triple-layered, plant-based protein bars coated in real dark chocolate with a gooey core”.

Each one contains a decent 16.5g of protein and 3.6g of fibre.

“The sugar and calorie content are very low at 0.5g and around 159 respectively, however these bars do contain sugar alcohols like maltitol and xylitol,” says registered nutritionist Clarissa Lenherr. 

“They also contain more processed ingredients than I would typically like to see in a protein bar.”

This includes the emulsifier lecithin, the humectant vegetable glycerine, polydextrose as a bulking agent and gum acacia as a thickener. 

Taste test: The chocolate is super milky. 

I popped this in the microwave for 45 seconds and let it melt a little for a bit more of a gooey bar.

7. Fuel 10k Peanut Butter oat bar: 3/5

Price: £2.24 for 3 (from Asda)

  • Protein: 9.7g per 45g bar (21.6g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 8.4g per 45g bar (18.8g per 100g)
  • Fat: 9.4g per 45g bar (20.9g per 100g) 
  • Fibre: 5.1g per 45g bar (11.3g per 100g)
  • Calories: 192 per 45g bar (426 per 100g)
Box of three Fuel 10K peanut butter oat bars; high in protein and fiber; gluten-free and vegan.
Fuel
Fuel 10k Peanut Butter Oat Bar[/caption]
Woman eating a protein bar.
Darren Fletcher
Lucy says this is a good option for those who like oats for breakfast[/caption]

CLARISSA says: “This offers a convenient, vegan snack with 9.7g of protein and 5.1g of fibre.

“However, it contains 8.4g of sugar per serving, which is relatively high for a snack.”

With added sugars like rice syrup and refined sugar, stabilisers and natural flavourings, this one is best as an emergency snack option.

“I wouldn’t lean on it daily if you’re aiming for minimally processed choices and less sugar,” Clarissa adds. .

Taste test: If you like oats for breakfast, this is your bar. 

It’s crunchy and chewy in one with plenty of pumpkin seeds and sweet bits of dried fruit.

8. Real Meal Blueberry & Almond: 2.5/5

Price: £4.99 for one (from RealMeal

  • Protein: 26g per 150g bar (17.3g per 100g)
  • Sugar: 39.5g per 150g bar (26.3g per 100g)
  • Fat: 22.1g per 150g bar (14.7g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 13.5g per 150g bar (9g per 100g)
  • Calories: 603 per 150g (402 per 100g) 
Real Meal Blueberry Almond bar.
Real. Meal
Real Meal Blueberry & Almond[/caption]

MADE from mostly whole food ingredients with 26g of protein and 14g of fibre per bar, Clarissa says this is great for feeling full and for muscle maintenance.

“The sugar content is quite high at nearly 40g per bar – more than a can of Coke!” she adds.

“That’s likely down to the fact that this is designed to provide energy and fuel for performance. 

“I wouldn’t say this is a great everyday option for those who aren’t fueling for intense exercise like a marathon.” 

Taste test: Yum! The Blueberry & Almond flavour tastes like a berry, marzipan-style pie. 

It’s chewy and tasty and filled with chia seeds. It’s actually surprisingly filling too.

9. MyProtein Filled Wafer in Hazelnut: 2.5/5

Price: £15.99 for 12 (from MyProtein)

  • Protein: 4.5g per 24g bar (20g per 100g) 
  • Sugar: 7g per 24g bar (29g per 100g)
  • Fat: 8.7g per 24g bar (36g per 100g)
  • Fibre: 0g per 24g bar (1g per 100g)
  • Calories: 133 per 24g bar (553 per 100g)
Box of MyProtein hazelnut filled wafers.
MyProtein
MyProtein Filled Wafer in Hazelnut[/caption]

AS a protein-enriched bar rather than a protein bar, this only provides 4.8g of protein.

Claire says this should only be seen as a sweet snack, just like you would see a chocolate bar.

“As well as the whey protein isolate, this product is made from sugar, different types of fat (shea fat, palm and milk fat), with chocolate, emulsifiers and flavourings,” she adds.

Taste test: I expected this to taste like a Kinder Bueno bar and to be honest, it’s not far off, just a little less creamy. 

But it still tastes naughty and thanks to being a wafer, it’s super light.

Protein isn’t just for bulking in the gym. It is the building block of a number of systems in the body.

What is protein needed for?

Protein isn’t just for bulking in the gym. It is the building block of a number of systems in the body. These are just some…

  • Muscle repair: Protein helps build and repair muscle tissues, making it vital for athletes, bodybuilders, and those recovering from injuries.
  • Supports immune system: Proteins are involved in the production of antibodies, which help fight infections and diseases.
  • Hormone production: Protein is necessary for the creation of enzymes and hormones that regulate bodily processes, such as digestion and metabolism.
  • Skin, hair, and nails: Protein contributes to the maintenance of skin elasticity, hair strength, and nail growth.
  • Energy: While carbohydrates and fats are the primary energy sources, protein can act as an energy reserve when needed.
  • Weight control: Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing hunger and supporting healthy weight loss or maintenance.

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Star of legendary 90s TV series looks unrecognisable 31 years after hit show ended

A STAR of a legendary 90s TV series looks unrecognisable 31 years after the hit show ended.

Louise Lombard, 54, may have shot to fame on the small screen, but she most recently featured in Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster epic, Oppenheimer.

Louise Lombard at the opening night of "Operation Mincemeat" on Broadway.
Getty
Actress Louise Lombard most recently featured in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer[/caption]
Louise Lombard in a beaded flapper dress.
She first found fame in The House of Eliott back in the 1990s
Louise Lombard in House of Elliot.
BBC
The shoe was set in the 1920s and was about two sisters who teamed up on a dressmaking business[/caption]

She played Ruth Sherman Tolman, an American psychologist and professor, who had a close relationship with J. Robert Oppenheimer, head of the Manhattan Project.

Louise has also appeared in some episodes of US TV show Grimm, and another show called Star-Crossed.

But rewind more than thirty years and she was playing Evangeline in BBC’s The House of Elliot.

The TV show was about two sisters in 1920s London, who teamed up on a dressmaking business which eventually transformed into a haute couture fashion house.

The siblings were called Beatrice and Evangeline Eliott, with the show airing between 1991 and 1994.

Beatrice was played by Stella Gonet, who went on to appear on Holby City.

Meanwhile, Louise decided to take a career break studying for a degree in English literature at Cambridge University between 1998 and 2000.

But her TV career took off again in 2004 when she appeared in US TV show CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, starring as Sofia Curtis.

She continued in the role until 2011 and has continued to work steadily in TV series and films.

These days Louise has blonde hair, and the California tan to match it.

This is in stark contrast to how she looked in The House of Eliott, where she had short, brunette locks typical of the 1920s.

In her personal life, Louise has two children and tied the knot with second husband Tom Poleman in May this year in a stylish New York ceremony.

Louise Lombard at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Getty
Louise, 54, lives in New York and recently tied the knot[/caption]

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Toulouse demanding £18million for England U21s star with Sunderland among Premier League clubs keen

CHARLIE CRESSWELL’S stand-out performances for England Under-21s have pushed up his asking price — but that is not putting off buyers.

Centre-half Cresswell has starred at the Euros.

Charlie Cresswell of Toulouse FC playing in a Ligue 1 match.
Getty
Charlie Cresswell is in high demand[/caption]
Charlie Cresswell of England in action during a soccer match.
The defender helped England U21s win the Euros
Getty

And French side Toulouse now want £18million for the former Leeds prospect, with the Whites potentially benefitting from a sell-on clause.

Several Prem clubs are watching but Serie A sides Atalanta and Como may come up with the cash for the Englishman, a key player for Lee Carsley as his side won the U21s Euros.

Sunderland have been linked to the defender, who has three years left on his contract.

Cresswell’s stock has risen after he played a key role in England U21s’ Euros win, with the 22-year-old revealing the Three Lions have always played a big role in his life.

He said: “I was brought up with England always a massive part of my childhood.

“I’d go to the local pub and I’d be watching the first team with all my mates, my dad’s mates and it would be like a big deal.

“So for me every time I pull on an England shirt it feels like an honour, a huge honour. I’m immensely proud that I get to do this.

“For me to go out there and give my everything it’s the least I can do.”

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Roma and Napoli have also been linked to Cresswell, who has made 34 appearances for Toulouse since he joined last year.

He helped them to a 10th-place finish in Ligue 1 last season.

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Met Eireann reveal where to escape rainfall today as they promise ‘settled’ weather just DAYS away after ‘cooler’ turn

MET Eireann have revealed exactly where is going to escape rain set to fall across the country today.

It comes as today starts off cloudy with patchy mist, drizzle and areas of fog near the south coast.

Map of Ireland showing accumulated total precipitation in millimeters.
Meteologix
There is a lot of rain headed for Ireland[/caption]
Ireland precipitation map showing 24-hour rainfall in millimeters.
Meteologix
And that rain will continue until a switch next week[/caption]

As the day progresses sunshine will develop in a lot of areas, especially this evening.

But some cloud and mist patches will linger along southern coasts and Met Eireann warn showers will “bubble up” in places.

They revealed exactly where will be hit by downpours and where will remain dry.

They explained: “A few showers may bubble up later this afternoon too, mainly in parts of Leinster and east Ulster.”

They added: “Highest temperatures of 19C to 25C warmest across the midlands and east, with winds becoming light to moderate south to southwesterly and freshening later near some western coastal parts.”

The tonight it will be cloudy again with outbreaks of rain and drizzle spreading from the west.

Mist and fog is to be expected too.

And as rain continues tomorrow weather expert Alan O’Reilly has pinpointed exactly where is set to stay dry amid 5mm of water.

Posting on X under Carlow Weather he said: “Rain pushing in from West Monday and over 5mm for many spots but the Sunny Southeast escaping most of it.”

Met Eireann added rain would be most “persistent and heavy” in the west and north of the country.

It will become drier and brighter in these parts later on tomorrow but cloud will continue.

Temperatures could reach up to 23C in parts of the country on Monday before dropping to just 8C in a cloudy night.

Tuesday and Wednesday are set for more rain and cloud with “temperatures dropping back from recent highs”.

And the nights will be “cooler” too Met Eireann have warned.

However, by Thursday we will see a switch to more “settled” conditions.

Met Eireann said: “Current indications suggest that Thursday will be a more settled day with a bright and mostly dry start.

“Some more cloud and showers are expected in the afternoon but that should be mostly confined to western areas.

“Highest temperatures likely in the mid to high teens.”

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