Kate Nelson

Prices for traditional 99 ice creams have risen to as much as £6.50–£7 in parts of Britain during a heatwave, prompting families, tourists and pensioners to complain that the treat is unaffordable. Vendors say customers are walking away, while sellers and the Ice Cream Alliance attribute the increases to higher ingredient, fuel and refrigeration costs. The controversy has also featured in Count Binface’s proposal to cap the price of a 99 at 99p.

The EU is preparing to ban beef from cattle treated with antibiotics to accelerate growth, while Brazil has not provided guarantees that its exports meet the new requirements. British farmers fear exporters shut out of the European market could redirect cheaper beef to the UK, intensifying pressure on domestic producers. The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs says it is assessing the risks with industry and Brazilian authorities and will act to protect farmers, animal health and consumers if necessary.

A strengthening El Niño is forecast to intensify between August and October and could prolong Britain's exceptionally hot, dry summer through Halloween, with its peak effects expected between November and February. The United Kingdom has endured its driest July on record, multiple heatwaves and weeks without rain in some southern areas, damaging crops, depleting reservoirs and raising concerns about harvests and food prices. Scientists describe El Niño as a natural climate cycle that is being amplified by global warming, increasing the risks of heatwaves, drought and wildfires worldwide.

SJM Concerts has secured an indefinite licence to stage events for up to 125,000 people at Knebworth House, just before the 30th anniversary of Oasis’s historic 1996 concerts. The licence has fueled speculation that Liam and Noel Gallagher could return to the Hertfordshire venue, although no concert has been confirmed. Interest is being amplified by fan reactions, an upcoming documentary about the band’s 2025 comeback tour, and sharply shortened betting odds on Oasis headlining Glastonbury in 2027.

Outlander actor Sam Heughan said that cast members were sometimes “perhaps forced” to film nude scenes they were uncomfortable with during the show's early years, when intimacy coordinators were not used. He described nudity as an unpleasant negotiation and recalled similarly uncomfortable auditions, while noting that industry practices have since improved. Heughan also called filming Jamie Fraser's rape by Black Jack Randall horrific but said difficult storylines can be worthwhile when handled respectfully. Sony Pictures Television was approached for comment.

Saharan dust reaching the UK has risen by more than 50% in recent years, worsening air pollution, aggravating respiratory conditions and disrupting flights. Researchers link the increase to climate change drying parts of North Africa, allowing stronger winds to carry more dust across Europe. A study covering 103 European sites found the particles contribute to higher daily deaths and hospital admissions during major dust events. Experts advise monitoring air quality and limiting exposure, while emphasising that long‑term mitigation requires addressing climate change.

Count Binface attracts cross-party and cross-football support in the Clacton by-election following Nigel Farage’s resignation and decision to recontest the seat. Farage faces ongoing scrutiny over gifts and donations while critics, including arts minister Chris Bryant, accuse him of provoking unnecessary political drama. Binface’s campaign gains momentum with increased volunteer interest and reduced odds from bookmakers, though he downplays expectations and pledges to represent Clacton if elected.

Sustained heatwaves and England’s World Cup success have sharply boosted pub trade, with Young’s reporting nearly 10% higher takings since March as beer gardens filled during prolonged hot weather and major sporting events. Fans consumed six million pints during England’s match against Mexico, and extended opening hours further increased revenue for local venues. Operators credited favourable weather and a sports-packed summer for the strong performance, though rising energy, wage and tax costs continue to challenge the sector.