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Irishman, 29, dies after plunging 1,900ft while taking picture of scenery at popular mountain ski resort in Bulgaria

A YOUNG Irishman has died after plunging from a height of 1,900 feet while taking a picture of the scenery at a popular ski resort.

The 29-year-old died from his injuries today after falling at the Bansko mountain ski resort in southern Bulgaria at around 2pm yesterday.

2A2373A Bansko, Bulgaria houses and Pirin snow mountain peaks landscape panorama in bulgarian ski resort
The Bansko ski resort is at the foot of the Pirin Mountain
Alamy Stock Photo
A 29-year-old Irish tourist was injured in an incident in Mt Pirin, Southwestern Bulgaria, Ivailo Lefterov of the Bulgarian Red Cross Mountain Rescue Service (MRS) told BTA on Tuesday.

The man fell down a gully on the side of Todorka Peak. He was transported to the hospital in Razlog with multiple traumas. If necessary, he will be transferred to a clinic in Sofia, the MRS said.

The incident was reported at 2 PM on Tuesday. The rescuers used three snowmobiles, said Ivan Baryakov of the Bansko Office of the MRS.

The Health Ministry told BTA that the Irishman was transported to the hospital in Razlog by a team from the Blagoevgrad Emergency Medical Care Centre. A possible decision to transfer him to another place for further treatment will take into account whether it is safe for him to be moved and under what conditions.
The 29-year-old Irishman died in hospital today
Mountain Rescue Service

Ivailo Lefterov of the Bulgarian Red Cross Mountain Rescue Service told local news sites that the man fell down a gully on the side of Tordoka Peak.

An air ambulance was requested for rescue but it could not reach the Irishman and his recovery was part of an hour-long effort by the Mountain Rescue Service of the Bulgarian Red Cross.

He was rushed to hospital in the nearby town of Razlog with “multiple traumas” following his recovery from the mountain.

It is understood that the tourist was part of a group taking pictures of the surrounding scenery when he lost his balance and fell.

He was rushed to hospital where a full assessment of his injuries was carried out and treatment was provided but he sadly passed away today.

The Bansko ski area, which is at the foot of the Pirin Mountain, is the leading ski resort in Bulgaria, with 75km of slopes ranging in levels from beginner to intermediate.

For the latest news on this story keep checking back at the Irish Sun Online, where we will bring you live updates as soon as they happen, before anyone else.

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/theirishsun, and follow us from our main Twitter account at @IrishSunOnline, where we will bring you this story and all the rest of the top news and exclusives of the day.

TheSun.ie is your go to destination for the best celebrity news, football news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.

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Aer Lingus make major announcement for ‘aspiring aviators’ as applications for top programme reopen

IF you are an aspiring pilot, one airline has announced huge news to get you closer to your dream.

Aer Lingus has reopened its Future Pilot Programme, which offers aspiring aviators a chance to fly for the airline.

Five Aer Lingus pilot trainees walking in Dublin Airport.
Caolan Flanagan, Lisa Cusack, Hosam Karim, Clodagh O’Farrell and Cian O’Shaughnessy in Dublin Airport at the launch of Aer Lingus’ Future Pilot Programme
Naoise Culhane
Two female Aer Lingus pilots in the cockpit of an airplane.
Aer Lingus Director of Operations and former pilot, Davina Pratt alongside First Officer Edel Murphy
Naoise Culhane

Successful candidates from the competitive selection process will join the 14-month pilot training course.

And even better, the course is fully sponsored by the airline.

Over a five year period, the programme will develop a total of 90 pilots.

Applications are being accepted from now until February 10, 2025.

Aer Lingus is encouraging more female applicants as part of its commitment to increasing diversity in the programme.

Currently, 11 per cent of Aer Lingus pilots are female, and the airline is looking to see this grow.

Aer Lingus Chief People Officer, Anne Kiely said: “Aer Lingus has a proud tradition of pilot training, offering Future Pilot Programmes for nearly sixty years.

“Successful candidates will embark on an exciting and rewarding career, flying Aer Lingus customers to a wide range of destinations.

“Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to operate some of the most modern aircraft in the industry.

“We invite everyone with a passion for aviation to apply for this unique programme, and we especially encourage women to join us as we strive to close aviation’s gender gap.”

The programme will start in September 2025, lasting 14 months.

It will combine theory and practical studies at an international pilot academy.

Students will then return to the Aer Lingus Training Academy in Dublin to complete their training, while being mentored and supported by the airline’s liaison pilot.

On qualifying, they will receive a multi-crew pilot’s commercial licence.

This will lead them to become a First Officer and then a Captain on short and long haul routes for the airline.

They will operate some of the most advanced and sustainable aircraft in the industry.

The fleet includes the recent addition of two new Airbus A321 XLRs, which deliver up to a 20 per cent reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions.

It also has an almost 50 per cent reduction in noise footprint when compared to previous generations of aircraft.

Aer Lingus Chief Instructor, Captain Karl O’Neill, said: “Aer Lingus’ Future Pilot Programme is a fully funded pilot training course that offers successful applicants the opportunity to realise their dreams of a career in aviation.

“We’re looking for candidates who possess excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. We particularly encourage women with these skillsets to consider applying.

“Previous successful candidates have come from a diverse range of careers and backgrounds and are now forging exciting new careers in the sky.

“All successful candidates will receive the most advanced industry-leading training. In addition, they will receive constant mentoring, guidance and support throughout their training and careers.

“We look forward to welcoming our 2025 Future Pilot Programme candidates, who will play a vital role in shaping the future of our airline.”

To apply, candidates must be over 18 as of February 10, 2025.

You must have completed your Leaving Certificate or the equivalent.

Candidates should have obtained a Leaving Certificate or equivalent with at least two higher-level subjects with a minimum of H5 grades.

The full list of criteria can be seen here.

Aer Lingus Airbus A320-214 taking off.
Applicants could be the next Aer Lingus pilot
Getty Images - Getty

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10 cheapest EVs to buy now – from budget micro-Citroen to iconic discontinued Fiat revived as perfect family electric

THE top ten Electric cars to buy in 2025 have been revealed, with an affordable Vauxhall Corsa making the list.

While EVs still tend to be pricier than their combustion-engine counterparts, brands like Citroën, Dacia, Renault, and Fiat are introducing cheaper options.

With some models now available for under £20,000, going electric no longer has to break the bank.

Citroën Ami – £7,695

Light blue Ami electric car driving down a street.
Not known, clear with picture desk
The Ami sneaks into the top spot, but it is not actually a car[/caption]

At the very bottom of the price scale is the Citroën Ami, which costs just £7,695.

This makes it both the cheapest EV and the most affordable vehicle on this list.

Technically not a car, the Ami is classified as a motorised quadricycle by the DVLA due to its tiny size and battery.

A quadricycle is a small, lightweight, four-wheeled vehicle that belongs to a separate category from traditional cars and is designed primarily for urban use.

Designed for city driving, the Ami has an 8bhp motor, a top speed of 28mph, and a range of 45 miles.

This unique classification allows it to be driven on an AM moped license from the age of 16 and keeps its price under £8,000.

However, it comes with limitations—seating for just two, a top speed of 28mph, and a modest 46-mile range.

Dacia Spring – £14,995

Orange Dacia Spring electric car parked in front of a metal wall.
PA
The Dacia Spring is practical and budget-friendly[/caption]

For drivers looking for a proper electrical car, the Dacia Spring takes the crown as the UK’s cheapest, with a starting price of £14,995.

Initially launched in mainland Europe, the Spring has been updated with a refreshed design, better interior quality, and modern connectivity features.

It comes with a 26.8kWh battery that delivers a range of around 137 miles, making it ideal for short journeys and city driving.

While it lacks the refinement of more expensive EVs, it offers incredible value for money.

Leapmotor T03 – £15,995

Leapmotor T03 electric car driving on a road.
Leapmotor
The Leapmotor T03 ranks third on the list of the most affordable cars[/caption]

Another budget-friendly option, is the Leapmotor T03, priced at £15,995.

This small Chinese EV is backed by automotive giant Stellantis, meaning it will be sold in familiar showrooms.

Despite its low price the T03 comes with a 94bhp motor, an 8-inch digital instrument display, and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen.

However, it has a few drawbacks, including an unsettled ride at motorway speeds and frustrating driver assistance systems that can be tricky to turn off.

Micro Microlino – £17,990

Britain’s adorable Prince George can’t get enough of his Micro Scooter which was designed by Wim Ouboter

Fourth on the list is the Micro Microlino, costing £17,990, brings a touch of retro charm to the electric market.

Inspired by classic “bubbles cars”, it features a front-hinged door and a compact bench seat for two passengers.

Despite its tiny size, the Microlino offers a surprising level of refinement and a range of up to 110 miles.

However, it’s relatively expensive for its capabilities, and its slow charging speed might put some buyers off.

Fiat Grande Panda – £20,975

Yellow Fiat Grande Panda driving down a city street.
PA
The BYD Dolphin combines sleek design with smart technology for a sustainable driving experience[/caption]

Fiat has also entered the affordable EV space with the new Grande Panda, priced at £20,975.

A modern reimagining of the classic Panda, this version is larger and shares much of its technology with the Citroën ë-C3 .

It comes with a 44kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of 199 miles.

With 100kW fast charging, it can be topped up quickly, making it a practical choice for those who need a reliable and budget-friendly electric vehicle.

Citroën ë-C3 – £21,990

Red Citroen C3 car.
Citroen
The Citroën ë-C3 offers an affordable entry into the EV market, combining practicality, modern technology, and quick charging capabilities[/caption]

The Citroën ë-C3, which costs £21,990, is another strong contender in the budget EV market.

It boasts a comfortable ride, a 100 mile range, and 100kW charging capability, allowing it to go from 20 per cent to 80 per cent charge in just 26 minutes.

Citroën has designed the ë-C3 to be both practical and stylish, with modern safety features and smartphone connectivity as standard,

However, it does suffer from noticeable road noise, and its handling is less engaging than some of its rivals.

The Citroën is also said to be “lethargic” to drive according to WhatCar?.

Renault – £22,995

Green electric car driving on a mountain road.
simon thompson
Renault 5, where retro charm meets modern electric affordability[/caption]

Renault has revived the iconic 5, and it has quickly become one of the most exciting budget-friendly EVs.

Priced at £22,995, the Renault 5 delivers on style and affordability.

It comes with a 40kWh battery, offering a real-world range of around 190 miles.

Though its performance tapers off at higher speeds, the Renault 5 remains a solid choice for those who want a retro-styled EV without spending a fortune.

Vauxhall Corsa Electric – £26,170

Gray car driving on a highway.
Not known, clear with picture desk
The Vauxhall Corsa Electric is now available starting at £26,170, offering stylish and eco-friendly driving[/caption]

For buyers who prefer familiar brands, the Vauxhall Corsa Electric is available for £26,170.

It’s entry-level trim, oddly named the “#Yes” edition, comes with 50kWh battery that provides a respectable range of 221 miles.

It also features a 134bhp motor, 16-inch allow wheels, and a well-equipped interior with a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen.

While it’s not the most powerful EV in its class, it’s practical option with the advantage of Vauxhall’s extensive dealership network.

Fiat 500e – £24,995

Orange Abarth 500e driving on a road.
PA
The Fiat 500e combines classic charm with modern electric efficiency, perfect for city driving[/caption]

Fiat’s iconic 500 has also gone electric, with the Fiat 500e starting at £24,995.

Retaining its classic design, the 500e is perfect for city dwellers who want a stylish and compact EV.

The entry-level model had a 24kWh battery, offering a limited range of 118 miles, but a larger 42kWh version increases the range to 199 miles.

It’s fun to drive and well-equipped, but it’s high driving position and limited fast-charging capability may be drawbacks for some buyers.

BYD Dolphin – £26,195

BYD Dolphin electric car driving on a bridge.
BYD Cars
The BYD Dolphin combines sleek design with smart technology for a sustainable driving experience[/caption]

Finally the BYD Dolphin, priced at £26,195, is making waves as the most affordable full-size electric hatchback on the market.

Chinese automaker BYD has entered the UK market aggressively, and the Dolphin offers one of the best ranges for its price.

With a 60kWh battery, it delivers an impressive 265-mile range.

While its steering lacks feedback, and its regenerative braking isn’t as strong as in some rivals, the Dolphin is a strong contender for anyone looking for a practical, long-range EV on a budget.

Top 10 cheapest Electric Vehicles to buy now:

  1. Citroën Ami
  2. Dacia Spring
  3. Leapmotor T03
  4. Micro Microlino
  5. Fiat Grande Panda
  6. Citroën ë-C3
  7. Renault 5
  8. Vauxhall Corsa Electric
  9. Fiat 500e
  10. BYD Dolphin
Bright yellow Fiat 600e parked on a street.
PA
The Fiat 500e starts at £24,995, blending classic style with modern eco-friendly driving—perfect for city life[/caption]

Red Citroen C3 car.
Citroen
Citroën ë-C3 is stylish and practical, but noisy with less engaging handling[/caption]
Yellow Fiat Grande Panda driving on city street.
PA
The Fiat Grande Panda is bold, spacious, and ready for adventure with a touch of Italian flair[/caption]

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Heartbreaking tribute for ‘bright & loving’ man, 20, killed by tree in Storm Eowyn as thousands raised to support family

THOUSANDS of euro has been raised to support the family of a “bright and loving” man who was killed during Storm Eowyn.

Kacper Dudek, 20, was killed in Raphoe, Co Donegal when a tree fell on his car at around 5.30am on Friday morning.

Photo of Kacper Dudek.
Kacper Dudek, 20, died after a tree fell on his car during Storm Eowyn
Garda/PA Wire

The young man was on his way home from his workplace at Zeus in Letterkenny at the time of the horror incident.

It is believed Kacper was attempting to make a U-turn on the blocked road during the storm when his car was struck by the tree.

The Poland native, who had been raised in Lifford the area, died at the scene.

And his devastated father Artur had spoken to his son on the phone before his death and was waiting for him to arrive home.

He told a local priest after the tragic death: “He never came home.”

He is survived by parents Artur and Katarzyna Dudek and younger siblings Karol and Weronika and his girlfriend Molly.

The funeral of the beloved young man will take place tomorrow in St Patrick’s Church in Murlog, Lifford at 10.30am.

This will be followed by a cremation at Lakelands Crematorium.

His remains are currently reposing at his home.

And following the tragic passing a GoFundMe has been set up to raise funds to cover funeral costs and support Kacper’s family.

The GoFundMe page describes the popular young man as being “full” of kindness.

It reads: “We are heartbroken to share the devastating loss of Kacper Dudek, a bright and loving young man whose life was tragically cut short during the recent storm Eowyn on Friday 24th January 2025.

“Kacper, aged only 20 years, was full of life, dreams, and kindness; touching the hearts of everyone around him.

“In this unimaginable time, we are coming together to support Kacper’s family with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

“Any amount, no matter how small, will help ease the financial burden and allow them to focus on honouring Kacper’s memory.

“Your kindness, prayers, and generosity mean the world to the family.

“Please share this page to help spread the word and show Kacper’s family that they are not alone.”

And the fundraiser has already raised €12,085 for his heartbroken family.

Over 500 people have donated to the cause, which is found under ‘Kacper Dudek’ on the GoFundMe website.

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Food Sold at Walmart and Costco Recalled Over Potentially “Deadly” Listeria Fears



You're not imagining it: Food recalls are increasing. According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) data analyzed by The New York Times, food and cosmetic recalls (they're grouped together by the FDA) "have nearly doubled between 2012 and 2024." And despite federal initiatives to reduce food-borne infections, "Incidence of Listeria, Salmonella, and Shigella infections did not change in 2023 compared with 2016–2018," reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Now, the FDA has elevated three recent food recalls to their highest risk level, which signals that an affected food—those sold at Costco and Walmart in this case—could cause "death."

RELATED: FDA Recalls 3 Supplements That Contain "Toxic" Ingredients and "Unapproved Drugs."

Costco smoked salmon may be infected with Listeria.

Costco's Kirkland smoked salmon packages Costco

In late October, Brooklyn-based Acme Smoked Fish voluntarily recalled its smoked salmon sold under Costco's in-house brand Kirkland. At the time, laboratory testing of the smoked salmon confirmed the presence of L. monocytogenes, the bacteria that can lead to listeriosis.

As the FDA explains, in mild cases listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, it "can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems," they note. "Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women."

In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Listeria infection is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the U.S. It's estimated that 260 people die from the infection each year.

Therefore, it's not surprising that the FDA has reclassified the salmon recall as Class I, it's highest risk level. They define this designation as "a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

The recall includes 111 cases of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon in twin 12oz packages with the following information:

  • UPC 0 96619 25697 6
  • Lot# 8512801270
  • Best-by-Date 11/13/2024

The cases were distributed between Oct. 9 and Oct. 13, 2024, to the Southeast Costco Distribution Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Costco Warehouse stores in Florida.

In a statement to Best Life, an Acme Smoked Fish spokesperson noted that the company initiated the recall in October as Class I. "As part of the process for that recall, the FDA confirmed the status of the recall this week on their website as a Class 1, a confirmation that typically takes place soon after a recall is issued," she explained.

"All products were removed from the marketplace at that time," she added.

RELATED: Costco Shoppers, Take Caution: Eggs and Cucumbers Recalled Over Major Health Risk.

Broccoli sold at Walmart was also reclassified to the potentially deadly level.

Braga Fresh brocolli Braga Fresh

The FDA also escalated broccoli sold at Walmart to a Class I recall. The 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets were originally recalled earlier this month by California-based company Braga Fresh. The affected bags have the following information:

  • UPC 6 81131 32884 5
  • Lot# BFFG327A6
  • Best-By-Date of December 10, 2024
This product, too, was found to be contaminated with L. monocytogenes during routine laboratory testing by the Texas Department of Health. According to the recall notice, it was distributed to Walmart stores in the following 20 states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
In both the smoked salmon and broccoli cases, no reports of illness have yet to be linked to the recalls. However, the FDA is concerned that consumers may have the food items in their freezers, and is urging people to discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Cleveland Clinic notes that Listeria can survive even in temperatures as cold as those in the freezer. They say that symptoms of listeriosis typically show up in one to weeks, "but it can be as short as a couple of days or as long as three months."

Lay's potato chips are a Class I recall, too.

 Bags of Lay's brand potato chips snacks at a supermarket shelf Shutterstock

A third Class I recall was initiated by the FDA this week for Frito-Lay potato chips. This time, the concern is over a "limited number of 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips that may contain undeclared milk," states a December Frito-Lay-issued recall.
"Those with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the recalled product," the recall reads.
Roughly 6,000 bags of the potato chips were sold in Oregon and Washington with the following information:
  • UPC 28400 31041
  • Manufacturing Codes: 6462307xx or 6463307xx
  • Guaranteed-Fresh-Date 11 FEB 2025

According to Mayo Clinic, "Signs and symptoms of milk allergy range from mild to severe and can include wheezing, vomiting, hives and digestive problems. Milk allergy can also cause anaphylaxis—a severe, life-threatening reaction."

If you believe you have an affected bag of potato chips, discard it immediately.

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