Today is Leave Work Early Day and Rotisserie Chicken Day. Your star sign is Gemini and your birthstone is Pearl (Alexandrite and Moonstone is also recognised).

1840 – 1928 – Thomas Hardy (87), English novelist and poet (Far from the Madding Crowd, Tess of the d’Urbervilles).

1922 – 2002 – Carmen Silvera (80), British actress known for her role as Edith Artois in the

1980’s BBC sitcom ‘Allo ‘Allo! alongside Gorden Kaye.

1941 – 2021 – Charlie Watts (80), English musician and graphic designer who was the drummer of the Rolling Stones from 1963 until his death in 2021.

1955 – Dana Carvey (71), American actor and comedian (Wayne’s World, Wayne’s World 2, Saturday Night Live), born in Missoula, Montana, United States.

1957 – Mark Lawrenson (69), English former professional footballer (Liverpool 1981 – 1988) and former manager (Peterborough United), born in Penwortham, Lancashire.

1960 – Tony Hadley (66), English pop singer and lead singer of the new wave band Spandau Ballet (“True”, “Gold”), born in Islington, London.

1960 – Shaun Wallace (66), English barrister, lecturer and television quizmaster (The Dark Destroyer on ITV’s The Chase), born in London.

1968 – Jon Culshaw (58), English actor, comedian and impressionist (Dead Ringers, Spitting Image), born in Ormskirk, Lancashire.

1965 – Jeremy Cunningham (61), English bassist with folk rock band The Levellers (“What a Beautiful Day”) and artist, born in Cuckfield, West Sussex.

1976 – Tim Rice-Oxley (50), English musician and songwriter with alternative rock band Keane (“Somewhere Only We Know”, “Everybody’s Changing”), born in Oxford, Oxfordshire.

1977 – Zachary Quinto (49), American actor (Star Trek Into Darkness, Brilliant Minds), born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States.

1979 – Morena Baccarin (47), American actress (Deadpool, Masters of the Universe, Homeland), born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

1970 – Bruce McLaren (32), New Zealand racing driver, automotive designer, engineer, and motorsport executive who competed in Formula One from 1958 to 1970.

1990 – Rex Harrison (82), English actor (My Fair Lady, Cleopatra, Doctor Dolittle, Anna and the King of Siam).

2008 – Bo Diddley (79), American guitarist, singer and songwriter (“You Can’t Judge a Book by the Cover”).

2017 – Peter Sallis, English actor (96), best known for his role as Norman “Cleggy” Clegg in Last of the Summer Wine and the voice of Wallace in Wallace and Gromit.

2024 – Rob Burrow (41), English professional rugby league footballer who played as a scrum-half (Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain).

1941 – German paratroopers murder Greek civilians in the villages of Kondomari and Alikianos following the fierce resistance of the Cretan people during the Battle of Crete.

1946 – The birth of Peter Sutcliffe, an English serial killer who was convicted of murdering thirteen women and attempting to murder seven others between 1975 and 1980. Press reports dubbed him the Yorkshire Ripper, an allusion to the Victorian serial killer Jack the Ripper.

1953 – The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II aged 27 took place in Westminster Abbey, London. Her Majesty was the thirty-ninth Sovereign to be crowned at Westminster Abbey and this was the first British coronation to be televised.

1962 – Chile and Italy played one of the most violent football games in history. The game, a mere group-stage game in the FIFA World Cup, was so violent that it is known today as The Battle of Santiago. Two players were sent off the field after numerous brawls broke up, with the police having to intervene four times. The match’s referee, Ken Aston from Essex, England, later went on to invent yellow and red cards which were intoduced in the 1970 Mexico FIFA World Cup.

1970 – The collapse of the Cleddau Bridge in Pembrokeshire. Errors in the box girder design caused it to collapse during its construction. A 230 feet (70 m) cantilever being used to put one of the 150-tonne sections into position collapsed on the south side of the estuary. Four workers died and five were injured. The bridge finally became operational in 1975.

1976 – Lester Piggott won his record-breaking seventh Epsom Derby riding the French-trained colt Empery. Piggott’s victory on the 10-1 shot allowed him to surpass the previous record of six Derby wins held by Jem Robinson and Steve Donoghue.

1982 – Pope John Paul II visited Cardiff during his historic pastoral tour of Great Britain. After celebrating a morning Mass for over 100,000 people at Pontcanna Fields, the pontiff traveled to Ninian Park, the former home of Cardiff City FC where he addressed a crowd of over 33,000 young Catholics.

1985 – The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) announced an indefinite ban on English football clubs from taking part in any of the European competitions, after continued hooliganism by their fans when travelling abroad.

1989 – 10,000 Chinese soldiers are blocked by 100,000 citizens in Tiananmen Square, Beijing, protecting students demonstrating for democracy.

1989 – Coming-of-age drama, Dead Poets Society starring Robin Williams and Ethan Hawke, premieres in the US (September 22 in the UK).

1994 – 25 senior intelligence officers, involved in counter terrorism in Northern Ireland, were killed when their Chinook helicopter crashed on the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland.

1994 – Indonesian censors officially banned Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List citing concerns over nudity and excessive violence. The country’s National Censorship Board mandated cuts to allow a theatrical release, but director Steven Spielberg refused to alter the film, which led to a total ban in the country.

2003 – Europe launches its first voyage to another planet, Mars. The European Space Agency’s Mars Express probe launched from the Baikonur space center in Kazakhstan.

2005 – Franz Ferdinand frontman Alex Kapranos is detained by Russian police as he boards a plane when he is suspected of being a spy in a case of mistaken identity.

2010 – Twelve people were killed and 25 injured by gunman Derrick Bird who opened fire in west Cumbria. The first fatality was in Whitehaven before the gunman drove south, apparently shooting people at random.

2015 – One hundred volunteers in Bhutan set a new Guinness World Record when they planted 49,672 trees in one hour.The volunteers had gathered in the nation’s capital, Thimphu, to celebrate their king’s birthday.

2015 – Four days after being controversially elected for a fifth term as FIFA president Sepp Blatter announces his resignation once a replacement is found.

2022 – Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd June saw an extended Bank Holiday and weekend break to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee. She acceded to the throne on 6th February 1952 on the death of her father George VI, who died from a coronary thrombosis, aged 56.

2022 – Johnny Depp wins a defamation case against ex wife Amber Heard who had accused him of domestic violence.

2023 – A collision between two passenger trains and a parked freight train near the city of Balasor, Odisha in eastern India, results in 296 deaths and more than 1,200 people injured.

1957 – Johnnie Ray was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Yes Tonight Josephine’, the US singers third and final UK No.1.

1962 – Owen Gray’s ‘Twist Baby’ became the first single released on UK based Island Records. The label became home to Free, Traffic, Jethro Tull, Bob Marley and U2.

1966 – Frank Sinatra was at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Strangers In The Night’, the singers second UK No.1. The song was originally composed by Avo Uvezian as ‘Broken Guitar’ and later under the title ‘Beddy Bye’ as part of the instrumental score for the movie A Man Could Get Killed.

1967 – Capitol Records released The Beatles’ landmark album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band in the United States shortly after its UK debut topping the Billboard chart for 15 weeks. In 1968, it won four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.

1972 – Pink Floyd released “Obscured By Clouds” in the UK. The album, which was recorded in Paris in less than two weeks, peaked at No.6 on the UK chart and No.46 on the US chart.

1979 – Donna Summer started a three week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with ‘Hot Stuff’, her second US No.1, it made No.11 in the UK.

1984 – Wham! had their first UK No.1 with ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go Go.’ Written and produced by George Michael, one half of the duo. Inspiration for the song was a scribbled note left by his Wham! partner Andrew Ridgeley for Andrew’s parents, originally intended to read “wake me up before you go” but with “up” accidentally written twice, so Ridgeley wrote “go” twice on purpose.

2008 – American guitarist and singer Bo Diddley, (Ellas Otha Bates) died of heart failure at his home in Archer, Florida aged 79. The legendary singer and performer, was known for his homemade square guitar and his ‘shave and a haircut, two bits’ rhythm, which influenced artists from Buddy Holly to Bruce Springsteen The Rolling Stones and U2.

2014 – 97 year old Dame Vera Lynn released a new album (Vera Lynn National Treasure – the Ultimate Collection) to mark the 70th anniversary of the D-day landings on 6th June 1944. Vera Lynn is the first person in music history to celebrate 90 years of showbusiness, the first British performer to top the US official charts, the oldest living artist to have had an official UK No.1 album and the only recording artist in the world to have spanned the pop charts from the 1940s to the 21st century. An unprecedented achievement, which breaks all records in the history of music.

2022 – Harry Styles announced he was donating his appearance fee from Apple’s AirPods’ spatial audio campaign to the International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid organisation that was responding to the more than six million refugees being forced to flee Ukraine after the invasion by Russia.

1420 – King Henry V of England married Catherine of Valois, daughter of Charles VI, King of France.

1692 – Bridget Bishop, born in Norwich, England is the first person to be tried for witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts; she was found guilty and later hanged.

1840 – Thomas Hardy, English novelist and poet was born at Higher Bockhampton, Dorset. He continues to be widely regarded for his novels, such as Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Far from the Madding Crowd.

1850 – The birth of Jesse Boot, chemist, philanthropist and founder of ‘Boots the Chemist’.

1868 – A group of trade unionists from all over the UK came to Manchester, and together they held the first meeting of the Trades Union Congress, at the Mechanics’ Institute.

1896 – Italian engineer and inventor Guglielmo Marconi applies for the first ever patent for a system of wireless telegraphy (Radio) in the United Kingdom.

Dua Lipa has dominated UK headlines after officially marrying actor Callum Turner in a private ceremony at Old Marylebone Town Hall in London. The couple reportedly celebrated with just eight guests, with reports suggesting a larger celebration could follow later in Sicily.

A groundbreaking new pancreatic cancer pill is being hailed as one of the most significant cancer breakthroughs in years. Trial results showed patients taking daraxonrasib lived for around 13.2 months on average compared with 6.6 months for those receiving standard chemotherapy.

Arsenal's title celebrations continue to make news after emergency services rescued 75 people who had climbed buildings, trees and traffic lights during the club's victory parade. Police also confirmed 16 arrests during the day.

Volunteers' Week is being celebrated across the UK, with stories emerging of local heroes who have spent decades supporting charities, community groups and good causes. Organisers say millions of people volunteer their time every year to help others.

Pitbull is making headlines after launching a world-record attempt ahead of his Hyde Park concert. Fans are being encouraged to wear bald caps in an attempt to create the world's largest gathering of Pitbull lookalikes.

The Red Arrows are preparing for a busy month of displays as events linked to the King's Official Birthday approach. Thousands are expected to watch one of Britain's most famous aerial displays.

A teenager with autism and learning difficulties has been recognised after becoming the first pupil from his school to achieve the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The achievement has been praised as an inspiration to other young people.

Around 70 classic Austin Healey sports cars have gathered in Windsor for a major rally celebrating one of Britain's most iconic motoring brands. Enthusiasts travelled from across the UK and beyond to take part.

The King's Guards' famous bearskin hats are back in the spotlight after campaigners renewed calls for synthetic alternatives. The debate follows figures showing a rise in government spending on replacement hats.

Transport passengers are being warned to check before travelling this week as industrial action and engineering works affect parts of the rail and London transport network.

A growing number of technology leaders are backing a new "Built in Europe" campaign designed to showcase innovation and encourage investment in European businesses and start-ups.

A campaign has been launched to shine a spotlight on London's lesser-known Lisson Grove arts district, with galleries joining forces to attract more visitors and celebrate local creativity.

An industry careers event featuring BAFTA and Emmy-winning professionals has been encouraging more young people to consider careers behind the scenes in television, film and production.

The summer events season is now in full swing across the UK, with festivals, outdoor concerts and community celebrations attracting record numbers thanks to the recent spell of warm weather.

Researchers say more people are choosing staycations this year as families look for value, flexibility and less travel stress, with coastal resorts and national parks among the biggest beneficiaries.

The Times says newly released government files relating to Peter Mandelson's appointment as US Ambassador reveal growing frustration with Sir Keir Starmer among some senior Labour figures. The paper says private messages show concerns about leadership and strategy behind the scenes.

The Sun leads with what it calls a "dossier bombshell" as a second batch of Mandelson files is released. The paper says the documents provide fresh insight into discussions surrounding his ambassadorial role.

The Daily Express says messages contained within the files expose Labour's internal debates about taxation and welfare spending. The paper focuses on comments attributed to senior minister Pat McFadden.

The Daily Mail says the latest files reveal what it describes as "toxic infighting" within Labour. The paper claims the documents expose significant disagreements between senior figures.

The Daily Mirror focuses on messages it says reveal "extraordinary treachery" surrounding Mandelson's appointment and relationships within Labour's leadership team.

The Daily Telegraph highlights exchanges between Peter Mandelson and Pat McFadden, focusing on discussions around taxation, welfare and Labour's political direction.

The Daily Star leads with football legend Kevin Keegan opening up about his battle with stage-four cancer. The former England manager says his doctor happens to be a Liverpool supporter, something he admits adds an extra twist to the situation.

The Guardian reports that newly released documents show Peter Mandelson received sensitive security briefings and held discussions with senior intelligence figures before completing formal vetting procedures.

The i Paper says the 1,500-page release does not contain a major smoking gun but does reveal how quickly some of Sir Keir Starmer's allies began to lose confidence in his leadership.

Metro reports that Peter Mandelson successfully persuaded David Lammy he was the right person for the ambassador role, claiming Lammy would "never regret" the appointment.

The Financial Times reports that AI company Anthropic is preparing a stock market listing that could value the business at more than one trillion dollars, underlining the continued boom in artificial intelligence.

Kevin Keegan is trending after the football legend revealed he is battling stage four cancer. The former England captain and Newcastle manager said the disease was discovered during scans following a car accident. The football world has rallied behind the 75-year-old.

Tube Strike is one of the UK's biggest talking points today as London Underground drivers stage industrial action. Major disruption is expected on parts of the Tube network, although the Elizabeth Line, Overground and buses are still running.

Henry Nowak is trending after the man convicted of murdering the Southampton university student was jailed for life. The case has also prompted national debate about knife crime and the police response on the night of the attack.

Premium Bond Prize Checker is trending as June's Premium Bond winners are announced and thousands of savers check whether they've become overnight millionaires.

ITVX is trending after viewers reported issues accessing programmes and live content during peak viewing hours, prompting many to check whether the service was experiencing technical problems.

People's Postcode Lottery is trending as winners across the UK check today's prize announcements and postcode draws.

Google is trending following fresh discussion around artificial intelligence, search features and competition from AI-powered tools. The company remains at the centre of the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

ChatGPT is trending as more people experiment with AI tools for work, study, travel planning and everyday tasks. AI adoption continues to accelerate globally.

Cape May is trending after weather stories and travel features highlighted the popular New Jersey coastal destination as summer holiday season gets underway.

KSI is trending after fresh social media activity and online discussion around upcoming projects from the YouTuber, boxer and entrepreneur. His ability to dominate headlines across multiple industries continues to drive huge online engagement.

Madonna is making headlines after celebrating Pride Month with a provocative social media video while teasing a brand-new album called *Confessions II*. The Queen of Pop also hinted that tour plans could be on the horizon later this year.

Duran Duran have announced a major UK arena tour for October 2026, including dates in Glasgow, Birmingham, Leeds and Belfast. The tour will be their first full UK arena run in three years.

Liam Gallagher has become an ambassador for music charity Brighter Sound, helping support young working-class musicians across Greater Manchester. The initiative will help fund the next generation of artists.

Rod Stewart has cancelled a number of upcoming performances due to health concerns. The 81-year-old says he hopes to return to the stage soon and thanked fans for their support.

Keith Richards has become a great-grandfather for the first time after his granddaughter Ella welcomed a baby daughter named Luna. The Rolling Stones guitarist is now part of a four-generation rock and roll family.

Peter Capaldi has announced a new run of UK live dates following sold-out shows earlier this year. The former Doctor Who star continues to build a successful music career alongside his acting work.

Yard Act have announced details of their third studio album, *You're Gonna Need A Little Music*. Frontman James Smith says the record explores the "grey areas" of modern life and human behaviour.

King Tut's Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow has reported rising ticket sales despite challenges facing grassroots venues. The famous venue, which helped launch Oasis, says crowds are growing again.

Bryson Tiller has announced five UK dates this winter, including shows in Manchester, Leeds, Cardiff, Birmingham and London. Tickets go on sale later this week.

Totó la Momposina, known worldwide as the "Queen of Cumbia", has died aged 85. The Colombian singer helped bring traditional Latin American folk music to global audiences and inspired generations of performers.

Taylor Swift is making headlines after announcing a brand-new song for Disney and Pixar's Toy Story 5. The track, titled *I Knew It, I Knew You*, was written with longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff and will be released later this week.

Love Island is back and already causing drama after contestants coupled up for the first time. Viewers are also talking about awkward first impressions, early villa tensions and a few accidental blunders during opening night.

Mr Tumble star Justin Fletcher is making headlines after reports he has found love with his longtime co-star Samantha Dorrance. The pair are reportedly living together at his Oxfordshire home.

Coronation Street has paid tribute to original cast member Alan Rothwell following his death at the age of 89. The actor played David Barlow and was one of the soap's earliest stars.

BBC crime series *Doorbell Detectives* has returned for a second season. The programme uses real CCTV and doorbell camera footage to help tell extraordinary crime stories from across the UK.

Ant McPartlin is reportedly considering a permanent move to Australia with his family after years of travelling there for television work.

Emma Barnett's new documentary on endometriosis is generating discussion after highlighting the lengthy delays many women face before receiving a diagnosis.

Netflix is moving ahead with an adaptation of the bestselling novel *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo*, with Anna Kendrick attached as director.

All Creatures Great and Small has been renewed for both Series 7 and Series 8, with filming continuing in Yorkshire. The hugely popular Channel 5 drama remains one of Britain's most successful television exports.

BBC comedy Daddy Issues looks set to return after becoming one of the broadcaster's surprise comedy hits. Fans have praised the series for its humour and heart.

Anthony Joshua has reignited his war of words with Tyson Fury as preparations continue for their long-awaited all-British heavyweight showdown. Joshua, who returns to the ring against Kristian Prenga in July, dismissed Fury's recent comments and challenged him to do his talking inside the ring. Reports suggest both men remain on course for a blockbuster clash later this year.

England's World Cup squad has arrived in the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Thomas Tuchel's side will use a Florida training base before beginning their tournament campaign later this month. ([Reuters][2])

Kevin Keegan remains one of the biggest names in sport after revealing he is battling stage-four cancer. Messages of support have poured in from across football for the former England captain, Newcastle manager and one of the game's most popular figures.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka is through to the latter stages of the French Open after another impressive display at Roland Garros. The Belarusian continues to strengthen her position as one of the favourites for the title.

Elina Svitolina and Marta Kostyuk are set to meet in a historic all-Ukrainian clash at the French Open. The match guarantees a Ukrainian player a place in the semi-finals and has attracted worldwide attention.

John Barnes has recreated his famous rap from New Order's World In Motion ahead of the World Cup. The former England star is encouraging fans to get behind local pubs and enjoy the tournament atmosphere together.

Formula One world champion Max Verstappen heads into the next phase of the season with older penalty points now removed from his licence, easing concerns about a potential race ban. The Dutch driver remains firmly in the championship hunt.

Transfer speculation continues to dominate football headlines, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United all being linked with major summer moves as clubs prepare for the new season.

Tributes continue to be paid to rugby league legend John Kear following his death at the age of 71. Kear enjoyed a remarkable coaching career spanning more than 700 matches and was widely respected throughout the sport.

The countdown to the World Cup continues with fans across England beginning to debate who should start in Thomas Tuchel's strongest eleven. Selection decisions are already generating plenty of discussion ahead of the opening match.

A landlord has gone viral after allegedly keeping a logbook recording how many nights his tenant's boyfriend stayed over. The dispute erupted when the landlord reportedly tried to increase the rent, sparking a huge online debate about privacy and tenant rights.

Premium Bond fever is sweeping the UK again as savers check whether they've become overnight millionaires following the latest prize draw.

Swizzels has transformed some of Britain's best-loved sweets into biscuits for the first time. Drumstick Squashies and Love Hearts biscuit sandwiches are now hitting supermarket shelves.

Americans trying a full English breakfast for the first time have gone viral online after sharing their reactions to black pudding, baked beans and Marmite.

Households are being encouraged to leave lemons on windowsills this summer to help deter spiders and insects naturally. Pest experts say citrus scents can act as a natural repellent.

Gardeners are being told that feeding tomato plants with Epsom salts could help produce healthier plants and bigger crops this summer. Experts say magnesium is often overlooked in home gardens.

Alan Titchmarsh has revealed his favourite summer flower – the Jacques Cartier rose. He says the classic shrub rose produces months of colour and one of the best fragrances in the garden.

Morrisons has sparked debate after revealing its preferred method for cooking gammon. The supermarket says boiling it first helps keep the meat moist and improves flavour before finishing it off.

Cleaning experts claim a fresh lemon can clean greasy oven glass in around five minutes without expensive chemicals. The citric acid helps break down stubborn grease naturally.

A builder responsible for luxury homes owned by celebrities and billionaires has revealed the secret touches that make a property feel expensive. His tips include hidden speakers, subtle scents and removing visible branding from rooms.

Love Island returned with a major format shake-up as contestants chose their own couples instead of letting the public decide. Host Maya Jama welcomed the Islanders at a night-time launch party before revealing a twist that could see one boy and one girl dumped within days.

Two bombshells, George and Yasmin, entered the villa on day one and were immediately handed a secret mission that could completely shake up the series.

Love Island fans were divided by the biggest format change in years, with some loving the fresh approach while others wanted the classic opening episode back.

Fashion entrepreneur Jasmine Müller is already emerging as one of the most talked-about Islanders. The Dubai and London-based business owner admitted she "lives for drama" and viewers have quickly taken notice.

Viewers have also been talking about contestant Mica Harris after learning she comes from a remarkably famous family with links to Barbados and British television.

Former Islander Gabby Allen believes this year's cast could produce one of the most entertaining series in years thanks to the mix of personalities and stronger characters.

The brand-new spin-off show *Love Island: The Debrief* launched after the main programme, with former contestants Shakira Khan, Toni Laites and Yasmin Pettet returning as hosts. Fans praised the chemistry between the trio.

Contestant Sean Fitzgerald revealed he never formally applied for the show. Instead, a viral TikTok video eventually caught the attention of producers.

Love Island bosses have issued a reminder asking viewers to be kind to contestants online, stressing that there are real people behind the television personalities.

The new villa has been given a major makeover for 2026, including a redesigned fire pit, extra beds and new social areas designed to create even more opportunities for romance and drama.

Celebrity Ex on the Beach ended with one of its most emotional moments as Freddie Powell was left in tears after Izzy Fairthorne confessed her love for him. The pair had endured a rocky journey in the villa, making the finale one of the show's biggest talking points.

Nicola Walker has been discussing her new comedy series *Alice and Steve*, admitting that one of the hardest parts of being a parent is knowing when to keep quiet and let children make their own mistakes.

KSI is making headlines after reports suggested his decision to step away from the Sidemen caught some members of the group by surprise. The YouTuber, boxer and entrepreneur continues to expand his interests beyond YouTube.

Love Island fans are getting a glimpse behind the scenes after reports revealed some surprising villa secrets, including late-night filming schedules, limited bathroom facilities and how producers manage life in the famous villa.

Netflix has unveiled its June line-up, including a new Harlan Coben thriller, fresh documentaries and several major film releases arriving over the coming weeks.

Heartstopper fans have been paying tribute after the death of Echo, the dog who played Nellie in the hit series. The beloved canine became a fan favourite during the show's run.

Natalie Cassidy delighted EastEnders fans after bringing Sonia Fowler's famous trumpet playing back to life during a live appearance at a London music festival.

Lacey Turner is being linked with a future appearance on Strictly Come Dancing after reports suggested BBC bosses are keen to sign the EastEnders favourite following her temporary departure from Albert Square.

Channel 4's new Russell T Davies drama *Tip Toe* has left viewers hooked after a dramatic and shocking opening episode. Social media has been flooded with reactions to the powerful first instalment.

Comedian Guz Khan has revealed that his motoring series *Customs* will not return for a second season after broadcaster Quest decided not to recommission the programme.

A major search operation is continuing in Mexborough after 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift was reported missing in the River Don. Emergency services, underwater search teams, drones and specialist officers have been searching the river and surrounding area after witnesses reported seeing him enter the water on Saturday evening. Police have asked the public to stay away from the area while the search continues.

A memorial event has been announced for Shanice Brookes, the Sheffield mum who died after being shot outside a West Street bar. Family and friends will gather at Ponderosa Park for a bubble release celebration of her life, while thousands of pounds have already been raised to support her family.

Two people charged in connection with the death of Shanice Brookes have appeared before Sheffield Crown Court. A provisional trial date has been set for January 2027 as the case moves through the courts.

A £20 million government funding package has been confirmed to kick-start development of the long-vacant site next to Sheffield Station. The plans include hundreds of homes, office space, commercial units and improved walking and cycling routes into the city centre.

A community campaign is racing to save a former church in Woodhouse and transform it into a theatre, arts and events venue. More than £18,000 has already been raised, with supporters hoping to secure the building's future.

A recently restored pond at Heeley City Farm has been destroyed by vandals, just weeks after volunteers completed a major refurbishment project. The farm has launched an appeal to help rebuild the area.

Six new bus lane enforcement cameras have gone live on London Road, Abbeydale Road and Ecclesall Road. Sheffield City Council says the cameras will help improve bus reliability and reduce congestion.

A new Sheffield music festival called Pintstock will take place later this month, combining live music and craft beer across Trafalgar Warehouse and Corporation. Organisers say the event will showcase local talent and independent breweries.

Sheffield technology company One2Call is expanding into a larger headquarters at Jessops Riverside as demand for cybersecurity and IT services continues to grow. The firm works with clients including Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and La Liga.

The Red Devil pub, one of the last remaining Georgian buildings on its street, is set for a facelift after Sheffield City Council approved improvement plans. The owners are now searching for a new landlord to take on the historic venue.

A controversial plan to move popular takeaway Urban Pitta into the former Farmfoods unit in Woodseats has been rejected by Sheffield City Council. Councillors cited concerns about the number of takeaway outlets already operating in the area.

Rotherham Hospice is celebrating its 30th anniversary with support from artist Luke Horton, who has become an official ambassador and designed a special charity edition of Henderson's Relish to help raise funds.

The Peak District has been named one of the UK's best destinations for a sunset walk. Outdoor experts ranked it among the country's top locations for evening views and scenic hiking routes.

Sheffield recorded one of its hottest May temperatures on record during the recent heatwave, with weather observers noting both record-breaking warmth and intense localised downpours during the same weekend.