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Century-Old Wisteria Blooms Late at Cambridge

Century-Old Wisteria Blooms Late at Cambridge

Cold weather delays the flowering of a historic vine at Jesus College.

A wisteria plant over 120 years old has begun blooming at the University of Cambridge, albeit later than usual due to the colder start to 2023.

The resilient climbing vine, located at Jesus College, was carefully examined on Wednesday by gardeners Danny Lawler and Mike Morris. Known as Wisteria sinensis, this species can grow beyond 10 metres with adequate support and is renowned for its cascading clusters of lilac, pea-shaped flowers.

Originating from China, the plant’s lightly scented blossoms typically signal spring. However, the delayed bloom this year highlights the impact of fluctuating weather patterns on seasonal growth cycles.

Unilever Faces Shareholder Backlash Over Executive Pay and Environmental Policies

Unilever Faces Shareholder Backlash Over Executive Pay and Environmental Policies

Advisory vote rejects remuneration packages, while activists challenge the company’s climate and sustainability efforts.

Unilever is under fire after 58% of shareholder votes opposed its executive pay packages during the company’s annual general meeting (AGM) in Leatherhead on Wednesday. Despite the opposition, the advisory vote does not legally prevent the company from proceeding with the proposed remuneration deals.

The contentious pay package awarded Chief Executive Alan Jope €5.4 million (£4.75 million), including a €3.7 million (£3.26 million) bonus. Finance Chief Graeme Pitkethly received €3.8 million (£3.35 million), with a €2.58 million (£2.27 million) bonus included.

Investor advisory group PIRC had recommended a vote against the remuneration package, criticising Mr Jope’s salary as excessive, noting it is 113 times the average employee’s pay—far beyond the suggested benchmark of 20 times higher. PIRC also raised concerns about bonuses for directors fulfilling routine responsibilities that should not warrant additional rewards.

Unilever responded with a statement: “While the board is pleased that all other resolutions were carried with large majorities, we are disappointed that the advisory vote on the Directors’ Remuneration Report was not passed. We are committed to shareholder engagement and will consult over the next few months to listen carefully to feedback and determine any next steps.”

In addition to the pay controversy, the AGM drew criticism from environmental activists, including Friends of the Earth, who staged a protest outside the meeting before joining as shareholder representatives. They urged Unilever to adopt stricter climate policies, demanding at least a 45% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 in alignment with international climate agreements.

The group also raised concerns about Unilever’s links to Astra Agro Lestari (AAL), an Indonesian palm oil producer accused of land and human rights abuses. Clare Oxborrow, senior sustainability analyst at Friends of the Earth, remarked: “The board acknowledged the critical nature of these issues, but we want them to act more decisively as a global leader in sustainability. Companies can no longer rely on business models that harm the environment.”

Unilever’s leadership assured stakeholders that sustainability remains a priority, though activists stressed the need for greater urgency in addressing environmental and human rights concerns.

Irish Premier Advocates Respect for UK Monarchy Amid National Broadcaster Debate

Irish Premier Advocates Respect for UK Monarchy Amid National Broadcaster Debate

Controversy arises over RTE’s extensive coverage of the King’s coronation, as Irish lawmakers voice opposing views.

Ireland’s Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, has called for respect towards the UK’s constitutional monarchy following criticisms from two opposition politicians over the extensive coverage by Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTE, of King Charles III’s coronation.

During a parliamentary session in Dublin’s Dail, socialist TDs Paul Murphy and Richard Boyd Barrett from People Before Profit-Solidarity questioned RTE’s decision to dedicate four hours of programming to the London ceremony. Mr Murphy described the monarchy as an institution rooted in “racism, privilege, and empire,” suggesting the coronation represents an attempt to rehabilitate the monarchy’s image.

Murphy argued that republicans attending the event to build bridges with unionists could instead focus on fostering a united, socialist movement that transcends religious and social divides. He highlighted the declining support for the monarchy, noting, “Even in Britain, only 29% of people consider the monarchy very important. It’s an outdated institution tied to colonialism and extreme inequality.”

Boyd Barrett echoed concerns over the lavish coronation expenditure amidst Britain’s poverty crisis, contrasting it with Europe’s abandonment of coronation ceremonies. He criticised RTE’s decision, asking, “Is this really appropriate for a republic to broadcast four hours of such an event?”

In response, Mr Varadkar acknowledged the criticisms but emphasised the importance of respecting the UK’s democratic choices. He stated, “The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy supported by the majority of its people. Monarchies sometimes become republics, as seen in Barbados, but that decision rests with the people of each nation. We should respect their system of government.”

Varadkar also highlighted the significance of peaceful coexistence and bridge-building, referencing the Good Friday Agreement as a pivotal achievement in Irish-British relations.

The debate reflects Ireland’s ongoing dialogue about its republican identity and its relationship with the UK’s monarchy, especially during high-profile events like the coronation.

UK Ends Evacuation Flights from Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

UK Ends Evacuation Flights from Sudan Amid Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

The final flights for British nationals depart as the UN warns of escalating refugee numbers due to intensified fighting.

The British government has concluded its evacuation flights from Sudan, with the final departures occurring on Monday evening. The flights, which aimed to bring British nationals out of the war-torn country, ended after an announcement from the Foreign Office that citizens had until 11am UK time (midday local time) to reach Port Sudan for the last two flights.

While the Foreign Office did not immediately confirm whether the flights had left by Monday afternoon, flight tracking websites indicated that a Hercules plane departed at 6.43pm local time, followed by an Airbus Atlas aircraft scheduled for 10.10pm.

The British evacuation efforts, which have brought 2,197 people to safety via over 20 flights operated by the RAF, have faced criticism. Many citizens reported a lack of communication from the embassy, with some claiming they were not given contact information to register with the Foreign Office until days after they were stranded.

The UK government also extended its evacuation criteria to include eligible non-British nationals, such as NHS doctors. However, the flights will now cease due to both the volatile situation on the ground and the low number of British nationals coming forward.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly praised the success of the airlift but stated that efforts would now shift to humanitarian and diplomatic actions. The Royal Navy ship HMS Lancaster will remain in Port Sudan to provide continued support.

Meanwhile, fighting between the two rival factions—the Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo—continues, despite a temporary ceasefire agreement. The UN has warned that the ongoing violence may lead to more than 800,000 people fleeing Sudan, with neighbouring countries already seeing large numbers of refugees. So far, approximately 73,000 people have crossed into neighbouring states, including South Sudan, Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Central African Republic, and Libya.

UN officials have expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis, with some calling it a “full-blown catastrophe.” The situation continues to deteriorate, with the potential for further displacement and strain on neighbouring countries’ resources.

Seven Dead in Oklahoma House, Including Missing Teenagers Brittany Brewer and Ivy Webster

Seven Dead in Oklahoma House, Including Missing Teenagers Brittany Brewer and Ivy Webster

The bodies were discovered in a rural property, with convicted rapist Jesse McFadden believed to be among the deceased.

Seven people, including two missing teenage girls, Brittany Brewer, 15, and Ivy Webster, 14, have been found dead at a house in Oklahoma. Authorities confirmed the presence of their suspected abductor, 39-year-old Jesse McFadden, a convicted rapist, among the bodies.

The two girls were last seen with McFadden on Sunday, leading to an Amber Alert being issued the following morning. They had gone to his house to spend the weekend, a visit they had made on several occasions before without incident. The girls were expected to return that evening but did not show up, sparking a search.

On Monday afternoon, Okmulgee County Sheriff Eddy Rice reported the discovery of the seven bodies at a rural home near Henryetta, around 50 miles south of Tulsa. While the identities were still being confirmed, Rice stated that the authorities believed they had located all those they were searching for.

McFadden, who had been set to face charges for sexual contact with a minor, had failed to appear in court that morning. His criminal history includes a 2003 conviction for first-degree rape, from which he served nearly 16 years before his release in 2020.

Nathan Brewer, the father of Brittany, expressed his heartbreak, noting that his daughter had been selected to compete in an upcoming beauty pageant in Tulsa. “She was outgoing and had so much ahead of her, but now she’s gone,” he said.

Sheriff Rice declined to share additional details about the scene but assured the public that there was no further threat to the community. “This is a tragedy for Okmulgee, and our hearts go out to everyone affected,” he added.

New Photographs of King Charles and Queen Consort Released Before Coronation

New Photographs of King Charles and Queen Consort Released Before Coronation

The newly unveiled images offer a glimpse into the royal couple’s life ahead of next weekend’s grand event.

Ahead of next weekend’s coronation, three new photographs of King Charles and Queen Camilla have been shared, offering the public an intimate look at the royal couple. The images, captured last month in Buckingham Palace’s blue drawing room, present a regal setting as the couple prepares for their historic event.

One of the striking photographs features the King and Queen Consort standing side by side in front of a portrait of Charles’ grandfather, King George V, painted shortly after his own coronation in June 1911. King Charles is dressed in a blue suit by Anderson and Sheppard, paired with a matching tie and a white Turnbull and Asser shirt. Camilla, on the other hand, dons a blue wool crepe coat dress designed by Fiona Clare, along with the late Queen’s iconic pearl drop earrings set, enhanced with sapphires and rubies, and a pearl necklace from her private collection.

The remaining two photographs show the royal couple seated individually. King Charles is perched in a giltwood and silk upholstered armchair from 1829, originally supplied to King George IV for Windsor Castle. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla sits in a similarly elegant giltwood and silk armchair, dating back to 1812 and thought to have been commissioned by King George IV when he was still the Prince of Wales.

These photographs were captured by Hugo Burnand, the same photographer behind Charles and Camilla’s wedding images in 2005, offering continuity in their portrayal for this momentous occasion.

Millwall Triumph Late as Blackpool Relegated to League One

Millwall Triumph Late as Blackpool Relegated to League One

Flemming’s decisive penalty secures Millwall’s play-off boost and seals Blackpool’s fate.

Millwall secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Blackpool, ensuring their play-off ambitions remain intact while condemning the Seasiders to relegation from the Championship with one game left to play.

Blackpool fought back twice in a thrilling contest at Bloomfield Road but fell short as Zian Flemming’s late penalty sealed the hosts’ fate. Despite their spirited effort, Blackpool’s defeat leaves them relegated to League One after a challenging season.

The game started disastrously for Blackpool when Tom Bradshaw put Millwall ahead within two minutes, slotting home a precise Ryan Leonard cross. Millwall dominated early, with Bradshaw missing further opportunities to extend their lead and Duncan Watmore striking the post.

Against the run of play, Blackpool levelled in the 36th minute through Jerry Yates’ penalty after CJ Hamilton was fouled in the box. Millwall reclaimed the lead shortly after halftime, with Bradshaw coolly finishing a well-timed pass from Watmore.

Blackpool rallied again, equalising with a spectacular 25-yard strike from Lewis Fiorini in the 66th minute, sparking hopes of a miraculous comeback. However, those hopes were dashed as Flemming converted a penalty in the closing stages after Fiorini fouled Watmore.

The result boosts Millwall to fifth in the Championship table, keeping their play-off aspirations alive. Meanwhile, Blackpool’s relegation marks a disappointing end to a turbulent campaign, leaving fans reflecting on missed opportunities and challenges throughout the season.

Bournemouth Edges Southampton to Bolster Survival Hopes

Bournemouth Edges Southampton to Bolster Survival Hopes

Tavernier’s goal sinks Southampton, leaving them on the brink of relegation.

Bournemouth made a critical leap towards Premier League safety with a narrow 1-0 victory over south-coast rivals Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium. Marcus Tavernier’s second-half strike secured the win, moving the Cherries seven points clear of the relegation zone, while Southampton’s plight worsened.

Southampton appeared to find a dramatic equaliser in the 89th minute when Che Adams netted, but VAR intervened, ruling the goal offside. The Saints struggled throughout the evening, failing to create meaningful attacking opportunities in a subdued performance that marked their club-record 11th home league loss of the season.

Ruben Selles’ side was further hampered by the loss of captain James Ward-Prowse, who left the pitch at half-time due to illness. With just five games remaining and six points separating them from safety, Southampton’s hopes of avoiding relegation are fading rapidly.

This defeat extends the Saints’ winless streak to eight games, erasing any momentum gained from their spirited 3-3 draw against league leaders Arsenal last Friday. Bournemouth, meanwhile, has solidified their bid to remain in the top flight, with Tavernier’s goal serving as a crucial moment in their campaign.

Charles Leclerc Ventures into Music with Emotional Piano Debut

Charles Leclerc Ventures into Music with Emotional Piano Debut

The Ferrari F1 star releases his first piano composition, blending motorsport inspiration with artistic expression.

Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc has taken an unexpected turn into the music world, unveiling his debut piano composition. Known for his prowess on the racetrack, the 25-year-old Monégasque has shared glimpses of his musical talent on social media, but now he’s officially launched his first song, “AUS23 (1:1).”

The four-minute instrumental piece, characterised by flowing arpeggios and ethereal string arrangements, has climbed into the top 10 on iTunes charts in several countries. Leclerc described the project as a passion-driven escape from the high-pressure environment of racing.

“I wouldn’t dare to call myself an artist,” Leclerc wrote on Spotify. “I love playing the piano, and that’s where this piece came from. It was created during the Australian GP, which is why it’s named ‘AUS23 (1:1)’—a nod to both my music and racing worlds.”

Leclerc’s musical debut follows a growing trend of Formula 1 stars exploring creative outlets. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, for example, contributed vocals to Christina Aguilera’s 2018 track “Pipe” and collaborated with Major Lazer on an unreleased song.

As the 2023 F1 season continues, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen leading the standings, Leclerc balances his racing commitments with his new artistic endeavour. Round five of the championship, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, begins Friday, 28 April.

Newcastle Edges Closer to Champions League as Everton’s Relegation Worries Deepen

Newcastle Edges Closer to Champions League as Everton’s Relegation Worries Deepen

A dominant 4-1 victory at Goodison Park strengthens Newcastle’s top-four hopes and leaves Everton in the danger zone.

Newcastle United took a significant step toward securing Champions League qualification with a commanding 4-1 triumph over Everton at Goodison Park. The defeat leaves Everton entrenched in the Premier League’s relegation zone, two points away from safety.

Callum Wilson justified his selection as Newcastle’s starting striker by scoring twice, with his goals sandwiching a powerful header from Joelinton. The star moment came from substitute Alexander Isak, who dazzled with a mesmerising run down the left wing, weaving past defenders before chipping the ball to Jacob Murphy for a simple tap-in at the far post.

Everton briefly reignited hopes of a comeback when Dwight McNeil headed in from a corner in the 80th minute, narrowing the score to 3-1. However, Newcastle quickly quashed the momentum, as Murphy struck again just a minute later to restore the three-goal cushion.

The result keeps Newcastle in third place, eight points clear of Aston Villa in fifth, with six matches remaining. Meanwhile, Everton faces an uphill battle to avoid relegation, sitting second-to-last with a critical clash against Leicester City—currently one spot above them—looming on Monday.