Katie Collier

Virgin Media O2 has added the Tennis Channel to channel 542 for Virgin TV360 and Flex customers at no extra cost. The 24-hour service offers live matches, interviews, archive material and coverage of competitions including the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, ATP and WTA grass-court events, the ATP Challenger Tour and Ultimate Tennis Showdown. The launch expands Virgin Media’s existing FAST streaming lineup, which includes 40 channels, and supports Tennis Channel’s international growth.

ITV’s broadcast of a Manchester United versus Leeds United pre-season friendly is expected to disrupt Emmerdale and Coronation Street schedules on Wednesday, August 12, with both programmes displaced by football coverage. No Sunday episodes were listed at the time of writing, potentially leaving viewers without one 30-minute episode of each soap, although the schedule could change. The article also reports Coleen Nolan’s comments that she auditioned unsuccessfully for roles on both programmes and found the prospect of full-time soap work daunting.

Ambleside is highlighted as the UK’s prettiest place to live, offering scenic views, lakeside activities and a variety of local attractions. Visitors are encouraged to explore The Book Brewery café and bookshop, enjoy Windermere by boat or paddleboard, walk routes such as Ambleside–Troutbeck or Stock Ghyll Force, and visit Stagshaw Gardens. The Royal Oak pub is recommended for refreshments, with strong reviews praising its atmosphere and service.

ITV adjusts its weekly schedule for Emmerdale and Coronation Street to accommodate World Cup knockout-stage matches, shifting or removing episodes between June 29 and July 3. Both soaps air at altered times throughout the week, with no weekend episodes but the usual total runtime maintained. Additional updates include comments from actress Isabel Hodgins on her potential return to Emmerdale, noting her uncertainty and the show’s flexibility regarding her timeline.

Jeremy Clarkson will supply Hawkstone beer for Kaleb Cooper’s upcoming wedding to Taya Wilkinson, with preparations largely led by Taya. Cooper shared details about their plans, including his wish to feature tractors at the event and the presence of Hawkstone beer on tap from Clarkson and Johnny Hornby’s brewery. The couple, together for a decade, became engaged in 2022, and Cooper reflected on the personal significance of the day.

Nuneham Courtenay in south Oxfordshire is ranked eighteenth among the UK’s prettiest places to live by estate agents Aston and Co, highlighted for its traditional cottages, preserved churches and proximity to Oxford. The village’s history includes an 18th-century relocation ordered by the 1st Earl of Harcourt and architectural features such as the Palladian-style All Saints Old Church. A full list of the 20 ranked locations features towns and villages across the UK.

ITV has confirmed Jeremy Clarkson will return as host for 35 new episodes across Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and Millionaire Hot Seat later this year. The announcement follows his disclosure of an aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis and subsequent remission. ITV credited Clarkson’s hosting and the refreshed format for the shows’ continued success, with filming scheduled to begin later in the year for broadcast on ITV and ITVX.

Taco Bell will launch Mountain Dew Baja Blast nationwide in the UK on June 30 after a successful limited release in London. The drink has a strong US fan base and growing UK interest, supported by years of online campaigning. Taco Bell and PepsiCo executives highlight the drink’s devoted following and the significance of expanding it into the UK market.

Jack P Shepherd and his wife Hanni announced the birth of their daughter, Constance Ita Shepherd, born peacefully at home on June 26. The couple shared the news and a photo on Instagram, prompting congratulatory messages from friends and fellow actors. The article also notes Shepherd’s recent Celebrity Big Brother win and reflects on reactions from co‑stars and public figures.

Dogs Trust Evesham seeks new homes for five dogs, providing details about each animal’s age, temperament, and ideal living situation. Several dogs were found as strays and may require basic training, gradual introductions to other pets, or specific home environments. Potential adopters are encouraged to learn more or support the centre through donations.

Seacliff Beach in East Lothian ranks fifth among the UK’s best hidden gem beaches based on Millets’ analysis of sunshine, temperature and water quality for lesser‑reviewed locations. The beach holds a strong Tripadvisor rating and is praised for its scenery, quiet atmosphere and views of Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle. Visitor comments highlight its peaceful setting and appeal for surfers and walkers. Millets encourages safe summer exploration of UK coastlines.

UK aviation authorities warn passengers travelling through Manchester Airport and other UK airports to avoid packing lithium battery–powered devices in checked luggage due to fire risks, urging travellers to carry phones, power banks, laptops and vapes in cabin bags. The UK Civil Aviation Authority’s summer safety campaign highlights lithium batteries as the top safety threat, noting incidents occur about twice weekly. Virgin Atlantic supports the campaign, emphasising correct packing practices during the busy summer travel season.