David Potts Triumphs as Winner of Celebrity Big Brother 2024

David Potts Triumphs as Winner of Celebrity Big Brother 2024

Ibiza Weekender Star Wins Over Viewers in Dramatic Live Final

After two weeks of drama, shocking plot twists, and tense nominations, David Potts has emerged victorious in Celebrity Big Brother 2024. The Ibiza Weekender star captivated viewers with his candid nature, infectious humour, and memorable diary room moments, ultimately winning the public vote during the live final.

Potts beat Strictly Come Dancing’s Nikita Kuzmin to the top spot, with Coronation Street actor Colson Smith securing third place. Former X Factor judge Louis Walsh came fourth, and TV presenter Fern Britton placed fifth.

Throughout the series, Potts stood out with his quirky behaviour, including his refusal to wear trousers, much to the dismay of Louis Walsh. Fans have been sharing their favourite Potts moments, including a viral scene where Big Brother tasked him with a secret mission, to which he responded with a hilarious scream: “Shut up!”.

In a heartfelt speech before the final, Potts expressed his surprise at forming genuine friendships in the house, saying, “I genuinely did not think I would be in a house with 12 people who I actually, genuinely, really liked. So cheers!” In his final diary room appearance, he said: “I have absolutely loved being a Big Brother housemate. It’s been a crazy ride, but don’t forget – Big Brother – slay. Slay every day.”

The 2024 series marked the return of Celebrity Big Brother after a hiatus since 2018, featuring 12 celebrities, including Fern Britton, Bradley Riches, Lauren Simon, Zeze Millz, Levi Roots, and others. Sharon Osbourne participated as a “celebrity lodger” and stayed separate from the main group, while Jordan Sangha was crowned the winner of the civilian Big Brother series earlier in November.

40 Dead in Moscow Concert Hall Attack as Fire and Shooting Rock Crocus City Hall

40 Dead in Moscow Concert Hall Attack as Fire and Shooting Rock Crocus City Hall

Islamic State Claims Responsibility for Deadly Assault During “Picnic” Concert

A devastating attack at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall has resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people, following a shooting and explosion on Friday, 22 March. The attack took place during a concert by the Russian band “Picnic” in Krasnogorsk, on the outskirts of the capital.

Footage from the scene showed large plumes of smoke and intense flames engulfing the concert hall, before firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control. Eyewitnesses reported gunmen opening fire on the crowd during the performance, causing chaos and panic among concertgoers.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, adding to the shock and horror surrounding the incident. Authorities have confirmed that a large-scale investigation is underway, with security forces working to apprehend those responsible.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been receiving regular updates on the situation, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov describing the event as a “terrible tragedy”. Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, offering his sympathy on social media platform Telegram.

The tragedy has left the city in shock as authorities continue to piece together the details of the deadly assault.

Scientists Successfully Use Gene Editing to Eliminate HIV in Lab Test

Scientists Successfully Use Gene Editing to Eliminate HIV in Lab Test

Researchers Harness Crispr-Cas Tool to Target and Remove HIV DNA from Infected Cells

Groundbreaking research has demonstrated that HIV can be completely eradicated from infected cells in a laboratory setting, sparking new hope for a potential cure. Scientists utilised the Nobel Prize-winning gene-editing tool, Crispr-Cas, to target and remove all traces of HIV DNA from infected cells, representing a major step forward in HIV research.

Crispr-Cas functions like molecular scissors, cutting DNA at specific locations to either remove unwanted genes or introduce new genetic material. The team of researchers, led by Dr Elena Herrera-Carrillo from Amsterdam UMC, have made significant strides in developing a method capable of efficiently attacking the virus across different types of cells and tissues, even targeting where HIV may hide.

The study, presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, aimed to focus on parts of the virus that remain constant across all known HIV strains. By targeting these consistent elements, the researchers hope to create a broad-spectrum treatment that can effectively combat multiple HIV variants.

While this achievement marks a significant proof of concept, the researchers caution that it is not yet a cure. They emphasise that the next phase involves refining the delivery method to target the majority of HIV reservoir cells, and balancing efficacy with safety to prepare for potential clinical trials.

The research team, including Yuanling Bao, Zhenghao Yu, and Pascal Kroon, expressed optimism for the future, with the long-term goal of developing a universally applicable cure strategy. However, they stress that it is too early to declare a functional HIV cure, despite these promising results.

Scott Mitchell Appointed People’s Champion for Dementia in Honour of Late Wife Barbara Windsor

Scott Mitchell Appointed People’s Champion for Dementia in Honour of Late Wife Barbara Windsor

Widower to Lead Dementia Mission Following Actress’s Campaign to Improve Care and Research

Scott Mitchell, widower of the beloved actress Dame Barbara Windsor, has been named the People’s Champion of the UK’s dementia mission, a campaign launched to advance dementia care and research in memory of the late star. Mr Mitchell, who married the “EastEnders” and “Carry On” actress in 2000, expressed his honour in taking on the role, aiming to continue his wife’s important work supporting those affected by dementia.

Dame Barbara Windsor, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014, passed away in 2020. She had been an outspoken advocate for dementia awareness, and her decision to publicly share her diagnosis in 2018 helped raise awareness of the disease. Mr Mitchell stated that he wanted to “keep her story alive” and focus on putting “people at the heart” of the dementia mission. He will attend a summit at Downing Street on Wednesday to help drive forward the mission, which brings together charities, businesses, and people with lived experience to accelerate progress in the fight against dementia.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission to advance research and speed up clinical trials. As part of the mission, the UK Government has announced £6 million in funding for 10 projects aimed at boosting innovation in dementia research. These include studies on the use of AI for early diagnosis and more accurate blood tests.

Mr Mitchell spoke of his deep commitment to making a lasting difference: “I want to ensure that the Dementia Mission continues to prioritise the people who are most affected by this devastating illness,” he said.

Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins and Science Secretary Michelle Donelan both praised Dame Barbara’s campaigning efforts and expressed their commitment to accelerating research into treatments and finding new solutions to tackle dementia.

Fear Grips Shoreditch Residents After Crossbow Attacks Leave Two Injured

Fear Grips Shoreditch Residents After Crossbow Attacks Leave Two Injured

Community Lives in Anxiety Following Violent Incidents as Police Investigate Further

Residents of Shoreditch, east London, have expressed their terror following a series of crossbow attacks that have left a 44-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man injured. The first attack took place on March 4, when Nazarine Cazley was shot in the head just yards from her home while returning from work. Ten days later, a second victim was struck in the neck by a crossbow bolt near Arnold Circus, just 60 metres from the scene of the first incident.

The police quickly launched a manhunt and arrested a 47-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder after discovering weapons including a crossbow during his detention. As investigations continue, residents of the quiet area have shared their fears about the lack of security in the days following the attacks. Many residents took extra precautions, avoiding windows and rushing through the square to avoid becoming targets.

Subera Rabby, who witnessed the aftermath of the first attack, recalled how she rushed to assist Nazarine, despite the pain she experienced from an arrow lodged in her head. Rabby also expressed frustration at the police’s slow response, claiming there was a lack of communication with the community. She described the overwhelming anxiety experienced by local residents, with some even detouring to avoid the area.

One local mother said she stayed away from windows, fearing that the attacks could happen again. Residents were left feeling vulnerable and unprotected, urging the council to implement better lighting and CCTV in the area to prevent further incidents.

The suspect’s arrest brought some relief, but locals remain on edge. In the aftermath, the police found more weapons, including knives, in the suspect’s home, and they have launched a separate investigation related to the seizure of another crossbow.

A special mention was made by DCS James Conway, who assured the community that the police were responding proactively, with forensic evidence and public appeals underway. Despite these efforts, many residents feel that the attacks have left them exposed and unsettled.

Meanwhile, the government is reportedly considering new legislation to regulate crossbows more strictly, potentially aligning them with firearm laws, following this and other recent incidents.

Lil Nas X Completes NYC Half Marathon in High-Top Coach Sneakers

Lil Nas X Completes NYC Half Marathon in High-Top Coach Sneakers

Rapper Runs 13 Miles in Designer Shoes After Failing to Find Running Sneakers

Lil Nas X, the rapper behind the hit “Old Town Road,” recently participated in the 2024 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon, but with a twist — he ran the 13.1 miles in a pair of luxury Coach sneakers instead of traditional running shoes. The 24-year-old performer, who was taking part in the event for the first time, found himself without appropriate running shoes when a store he visited was closed, leaving him to compete in the brand’s white leather high-top Distressed Sneakers. Although these sneakers are currently sold out on Coach’s website, they are available on Amazon for $162.25.

The race, which took place on St Patrick’s Day, was a new challenge for Lil Nas X, who admitted that this was his first time running outdoors. Despite his unconventional choice of footwear, he completed the race in 2:32:53, and after crossing the finish line, he joked about his exhaustion on Instagram, sharing that he was so fatigued he needed a wheelchair.

The NYC Half Marathon, organised by New York Road Runners, attracted over 27,000 participants this year, setting a new record for the event. The course took runners from Brooklyn, across the Manhattan Bridge, through Times Square, and ended in Central Park.

Lil Nas X, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, is a long-time brand ambassador for Coach, having collaborated with the label on several projects, including their “Courage to Be Real” campaign. Following his marathon debut, a spokesperson for New York Road Runners revealed that the singer will receive a pair of New Balance running shoes and gear as he continues his new running journey.

The race also saw other notable personalities, including TV anchors Amy Robach and TJ Holmes, as well as Catfish’s Nev Schulman, all taking part alongside the rapper.

Veteran Alabama Legislator Steps Down After Guilty Plea to Fraud and Obstruction Charges

Veteran Alabama Legislator Steps Down After Guilty Plea to Fraud and Obstruction Charges

John Rogers Resigns After Pleading Guilty to Federal Conspiracy Charges in Grant Scandal

John Rogers, the longest-serving member of the Alabama House of Representatives, has officially resigned following a guilty plea to federal charges related to a grant fraud scheme. Rogers, 83, a Democrat from Birmingham, pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges involving wire fraud, mail fraud, and obstruction of justice in connection with a scheme that diverted funds intended for community projects in Jefferson County.

Rogers submitted his resignation last Wednesday, confirmed by House spokesperson Clay Redden. His decision came as part of a plea deal with federal prosecutors. The charges stem from a kickback operation where Rogers, between 2018 and 2022, allegedly directed $400,000 to a youth sports organisation run by former state representative Fred L. Plump, Jr. In return, Plump and Rogers’ former assistant, Varrie Johnson Kindall, gave approximately $200,000 back to Rogers and Kindall.

The charges were related to a diversion of funds meant for community development, and Rogers agreed to pay $197,950 in restitution as part of the plea agreement. He is scheduled for sentencing on July 26, with prosecutors recommending 14 months of home confinement.

Rogers, who has served in the Alabama Legislature since 1982, would have been ineligible to continue his position with a felony conviction. His resignation marks the third case of an Alabama lawmaker pleading guilty to criminal charges during the current legislative term. Last year, former Rep. Fred L. Plump resigned after pleading guilty to similar charges, and former Rep. David Cole, a Republican, pleaded guilty to voter fraud charges.

A special election will be held to fill Rogers’ vacant seat in the House of Representatives.

R. Kelly Appeals Against 30-Year Sentence, Claims Misuse of RICO Law

R. Kelly Appeals Against 30-Year Sentence, Claims Misuse of RICO Law

Singer’s Legal Team Argues Racketeering Law Should Not Apply to His Case

R. Kelly’s legal team has filed an appeal against the 30-year prison sentence handed to the singer in 2022, arguing that the use of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) statute in his trial was unjust. Kelly’s lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, told an appeals court in Manhattan on Monday that the law, which was originally intended to combat organised crime, was improperly applied in the case against the R&B star.

The 57-year-old artist, convicted for sexually abusing young fans, including minors, over a span of decades, has contested the notion that his activities with his entourage should be considered as running a RICO enterprise. Bonjean claimed that the singer’s team, which allegedly helped recruit women and girls for sexual exploitation, should not be considered part of a criminal organisation in the same vein as Mafia groups or street gangs. She noted that if the law is applied too broadly, it could categorise numerous legitimate organisations—such as college fraternities—as racketeering enterprises.

While Bonjean sought to reverse the conviction or secure a new trial, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kayla Bensing defended the government’s case, stating that Kelly’s network of employees and associates was integral to maintaining a system that lured young girls into his circle. According to the prosecution, the employees were aware of the illegal activities, including sexual abuse and child pornography production, as they aided in isolating and controlling victims.

During the appeal hearing, judges questioned whether staff members knew of Kelly’s abuse, with some citing testimony from victims who revealed they had told Kelly’s team members about their underage status. The prosecutor also highlighted instances where the singer’s staff had booked travel for the girls and gathered their birth dates, suggesting they knew the girls were underage.

Kelly, known for his hits like “I Believe I Can Fly,” was a beloved figure for many years, even as allegations of sexual misconduct began circulating in the 1990s. After being acquitted of child pornography charges in 2008, he was convicted again in 2022 for producing child pornography and engaging in sexual activity with minors. The outrage surrounding Kelly’s actions became more prominent following the release of the documentary Surviving R. Kelly and the broader #MeToo movement.

Ariana Grande Tops UK Charts with Fifth No.1 Album Eternal Sunshine

Ariana Grande Tops UK Charts with Fifth No.1 Album Eternal Sunshine

Singer Makes Chart History and Dominates Singles with We Can’t Be Friends

Ariana Grande has claimed her fifth UK number one album with Eternal Sunshine, making her the latest artist to join the ranks of Celine Dion, Prince, and Green Day, each with five chart-topping albums in the UK. The 30-year-old pop sensation’s new release marks her return to the top spot, following her previous number one album Positions (2020).

Grande’s achievement doesn’t stop there; her latest track, We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love), has debuted at number three in the UK singles chart, marking a double chart victory.

With Eternal Sunshine, Grande continues her reign, having already amassed multiple chart-toppers including Dangerous Woman (2016), Sweetener (2018), and Thank U, Next (2019). In addition to her album successes, the American star has also earned seven UK number one singles, including hits like Problem featuring Iggy Azalea (2014) and 7 Rings (2019).

Before the album’s release, Grande teased fans with her first single Yes, And?, which hit the charts on January 12, later receiving a remix featuring the legendary Mariah Carey. Additionally, the music video for We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love) premiered on March 8, with visuals that paid tribute to the iconic 2004 film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

In other UK chart news, Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em has achieved another milestone, becoming her longest-running UK number one single with four consecutive weeks at the top. The song was released during the Super Bowl on February 11 alongside another single, 16 Carriages, and is expected to feature on her upcoming album Act II: Cowboy Carter, due for release on March 29.

In the singles chart, Beautiful Things by Benson Boone holds the second spot, followed by End of Beginning by Djo at number four. Teddy Swims’ Lose Control completes the top five at number five.

Meanwhile, in the albums chart, Eternal Sunshine is followed by Invincible Shield by Judas Priest and The Highlights by The Weeknd at number three. Noah Kahan’s Stick Season, which previously reached number one, climbs four places to number four this week. Jack Antonoff’s indie band Bleachers enters the chart at number five with their self-titled album.

Putin Aims for Ukraine Truce: The West Must Respond Firmly

Putin Aims for Ukraine Truce: The West Must Respond Firmly

As Russia Gains Momentum, NATO Allies Must Strengthen Defence Strategy

The situation in Ukraine has reached a critical juncture. The war is no longer just a battle for Ukrainians and Russians—it has broader implications for the United States, Europe, and particularly the UK. As Russia increases its attacks on multiple fronts and asserts dominance in the air and electronic warfare, Ukraine continues to fight back, though its resources are dwindling and Western support is fading.

Vladimir Putin is eyeing a potential truce in the coming weeks, particularly this spring, with an anticipated major announcement about Russia’s territorial demands. His expectation is that a deal will favour Russia, giving them control of more land, and further humiliating the Ukrainian government. Putin’s strategy extends beyond Ukraine—his covert operations in the Arctic, Mediterranean, and Africa reveal his long-term plans to expand Russia’s influence.

This ongoing crisis presents a significant challenge for the UK, which is now at the heart of efforts to coordinate NATO and European allies in addressing the “polycrisis” that stretches from northern and eastern Europe to the Red Sea and Gulf. As part of this, the UK has extended the tenure of its defence team under Admiral Sir Tony Radakin for an additional two years, a decision backed by the US, the Nordics, and Ukraine. Their task is to help formulate a credible defence and security plan.

A key part of this strategy should involve re-establishing the connection between society and its forces. The focus should not only be on the military’s role in defending the country but also on how it serves the community. This approach can play a pivotal role in tackling the current recruitment crisis. The public needs to believe in the country’s defence strategy—one that is credible, efficient, and essential for national security.

As Putin prepares to move forward with his ambitions, the West must take a firm stance, ensuring that any truce or agreement does not serve Russian interests at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty and European stability.