Fraudster conned luxury hotels by selling fake Scottish tea in a scam that spanned years and left him living the life of a gangster.
Author: WTX News Editor
Cliff Notes – Harvard isn’t Harvard anymore: free speech is dead Harvard students, particularly international ones, exhibit reluctance to speak out on controversial issues like the Trump administration’s policies due to the fear of repercussions. Amidst graduation celebrations, there was a visible undercurrent of political dissent, with some students wearing symbolic white flowers in solidarity with international students facing uncertainty. The sentiments expressed by students highlight a broader crisis in U.S. education, as many reconsider…
Cliff Notes An ultra-sensitive blood test for tumour DNA, deemed "revolutionary," is set to roll out across the NHS, enabling quicker diagnoses and treatment for lung cancer patients. The liquid biopsy approach substantially reduces wait times for results, allowing patients to begin targeted therapies while genomic testing is completed, potentially saving the NHS up to £11 million annually. This initiative marks the NHS as the first health service globally to implement a "blood-test first" strategy…
Cliff Notes Israel has accepted a US-proposed ceasefire plan involving a 60-day pause in hostilities, with the release of hostages as a key component, while Hamas indicates that discussions are ongoing. White House officials confirm Israel’s backing of the proposal, yet Hamas voices dissatisfaction, demanding the end of the conflict and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Amid humanitarian concerns, reports emerge of chaotic conditions at aid distribution hubs, with significant casualties noted during…
Cliff Notes Owen Grant, 43, was sentenced to a minimum of 24 years for the murder of Lucretia Donaghy, 32, in Elgin, highlighting the brutal nature of the attack with a claw hammer. The court revealed Grant embarked on a spending spree shortly after the murder, using the victim’s money to fuel his drug habit, with no evidence of provocation found. Ms Donaghy’s mother expressed deep sorrow over her daughter’s violent death and the lasting…
Cliff Notes Aiat Mohammed’s son, Akram, died at 15 weeks old due to a suspected severe respiratory condition, raising concerns about the impact of their mould-infested housing on his health. Independent inspections before Akram’s birth revealed significant damp issues in their Camden flat, with the landlord failing to address multiple complaints from the family. Akram’s death has prompted an inquest, as housing complaints related to poor living conditions have surged significantly in the UK over…
Cliff Notes A British charity has appealed to the UK government to allow critically ill children from Gaza to receive urgent medical treatment, citing two specific cases. Only two patients from Gaza have received treatment in the UK in the past 20 months, highlighting the dire need for intervention. Medical professionals in Gaza report overwhelming conditions, with a significant number of children requiring life-saving procedures amid ongoing conflict. ‘What did they do to be burned…
Cliff Notes – Teen arrested after woman 86 struck and killed in Sunderland A teenager has been arrested for dangerous driving following the death of 86-year-old Gloria Stephenson, who was hit while using a zebra crossing in Sunderland. The rider allegedly fled the scene after the incident on 16 May, but later surrendered and has been released on police bail. Ms Stephenson’s family described her as a vibrant and active individual, expressing their devastation at…
Cliff Notes – Kool & the Gang’s Michael Sumler dies in car crash Michael Sumler, affectionately known as “Chicago Mike,” a long-time member of Kool & the Gang, tragically died in a car crash at the age of 71 near Atlanta. The band expressed their sorrow, noting Sumler’s role as a wardrobe valet and crowd hype man from 2000 to 2015, highlighting his vibrant spirit and enthusiasm. Friends and local officials lamented his loss, describing…
Cliff Notes – New salmonella outbreak in Florida New salmonella outbreak in Florida tied to the same Florida grower who has a history of bad produce. Current Outbreak Investigation: U.S. health officials are probing a new salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers grown by Florida-based Bedner Growers, with 26 reported illnesses across 15 states and at least nine hospitalisations. Previous Impact: This outbreak follows a significant incident in 2024, where over 550 illnesses were reported, resulting…
Cliff Notes – Youngest victim injured in Liverpool parade crash is nine years old A nine-year-old child is among the 79 injured in the Liverpool parade crash, with an age range up to 78 years old; seven remain in stable condition in hospital. A 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and drug driving, with police withholding details about the alleged drug involved. The incident occurred when a car drove…
Cliff Notes – Farage’s fantasy policies will lead to Truss-style economic meltdown Sir Keir Starmer warns that Nigel Farage’s economic policies could trigger an economic crisis similar to that caused by Liz Truss’s mini-budget, leading to rising costs for mortgages and bills across the UK. Farage’s pledge to increase personal tax allowances to £20,000 annually could result in estimated costs between £50 billion to £80 billion, raising concerns over financial sustainability. Recent polls indicate a…
Cliff Notes – Schoolgirl’s assembly on the hardest of subjects Evie’s Courageous Presentation: Seventeen-year-old Evie Roodhouse plans to discuss her father’s suicide during a school assembly, aiming to address the casual joking about suicide. Mental Health Awareness: Evie emphasises the need for open communication regarding mental health, pointing out that keeping emotions suppressed can lead to tragic outcomes like suicide. Support from Family: Both Evie and her younger sister Ada express their frustrations over societal…
Cliff Notes – US trade court blocks Donald Trump | US News A US trade court has blocked Donald Trump’s proposed global tariffs, ruling he exceeded his authority; tariffs typically require Congress approval. The tariffs, including a 10% tax on UK imports, triggered aggressive sell-offs in the stock market and faced multiple lawsuits from affected businesses. Trump’s administration has filed a notice of appeal, indicating that the legal battle may escalate to the Supreme Court.…
Cliff Notes – Elon Musk leaving role in the Trump administration Elon Musk is resigning from his position as a “special government employee” in the Trump administration, ending his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency. His tenure was marked by aims to significantly cut federal spending, but encountered criticism for drastic reductions to humanitarian aid and internal bureaucratic resistance. Musk’s departure coincided with a ruling against Trump regarding global tariffs, highlighting ongoing tensions within…
Cliff Notes – Sean Diddy Combs’s ex Cassie gives birth Cassie Ventura gave birth to her third child just two weeks after testifying against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, who is facing multiple serious charges including sex trafficking. During her testimony, Cassie, who was over eight months pregnant, detailed allegations of physical and mental abuse during her 11-year relationship with Combs. Diddy’s legal team attempted to declare a mistrial, arguing prosecutorial misconduct regarding evidence in a related…
Cliff Notes Chelsea secured the UEFA Conference League title with a decisive 4-1 victory over Real Betis, marking their first trophy under the Clearlake Capital ownership. Manager Enzo Maresca led Chelsea to a successful season, finishing fourth in the Premier League with the youngest squad in the competition’s history. This victory makes Chelsea the first club to win all four current European competitions, adding to their impressive haul of seven European titles. Chelsea win UEFA…
Cliff Notes Kneecap have been "removed" from the TRNSMT festival lineup due to safety concerns raised by the police, following a charge against member Liam O hAnnaidh for displaying a Hezbollah flag. In response to their removal, the hip hop trio will perform a solo headline show at the O2 Academy in Glasgow on 8 July, three days prior to the festival. Police Scotland indicated that no consultation occurred before the booking of the band…
Cliff Notes – Smart missiles from Germany allow Ukraine to destroy Crimea bridge Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced joint production of long-range missiles with Ukraine, but did not confirm the supply of Taurus missiles, keeping the decision ambiguous. The Taurus missile, with a range of over 310 miles, may provide Ukraine the ability to target Russian assets previously considered secure, although usage could be limited by air defence threats. Germany’s hesitance to supply Taurus missiles stems…
Cliff Notes Sussex police officers PC Stephen Smith and PC Rachel Comotto were cleared of assault charges after using pepper spray and a Taser on 92-year-old Donald Burgess, who was threatening staff with a knife. The court heard Mr Burgess was experiencing delirium from a urinary tract infection, which contributed to his aggressive behaviour during the incident on 21 June 2022. Both officers will now face gross misconduct proceedings despite the jury’s not guilty verdicts…
Cliff Notes Paul Danan, the former Hollyoaks star, died by misadventure due to a combination of prescription and illicit drugs, as concluded by a coroner’s inquest. The 46-year-old actor was found unresponsive at his home, having a history of mental health struggles and drug misuse, with no evidence of suicide intent. Danan was scheduled to appear in court for drug-related charges the day after his death, highlighting ongoing issues with addiction. Paul Danan: Former Hollyoaks…
Cliff Notes – Hunt for man wanted in connection with murder Police are seeking Tino Williams, 23, in connection with the murder of 19-year-old Brandon Porter Kershaw, who succumbed to injuries after being struck by a vehicle outside a primary school in Bury, Greater Manchester. A 38-year-old man was previously arrested on suspicion of murder but has since been released on bail as the investigation continues. Mr Kershaw’s family described him as a “gentle, kind-hearted”…
Cliff Notes Recent cyberattack exposes NHS trusts, specifically University College London Hospitals and University Hospital Southampton, raising concerns over the security of patient data. Hackers exploited a vulnerability in Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile software, accessing sensitive information such as staff phone numbers and authentication tokens without deploying ransomware. Experts warn of potential widespread impacts on patient safety, including disrupted appointment systems and increased public distrust in NHS cybersecurity measures. NHS trusts’ data ‘stolen’ in cyberattack…
Cliff Notes At least 47 Palestinians were injured, mainly from gunfire, during a chaotic incident at a newly opened aid distribution hub in Rafah, according to a UN official. The Hamas-run media reported three fatalities and several missing persons, amidst desperation for food due to a prolonged Israeli blockade. The UN and other humanitarian organisations have expressed concerns over the new aid system, claiming it will not adequately meet the needs of Gaza’s population. Dozens…
Cliff Notes Dominic Cummings believes Nigel Farage could become prime minister if he develops a clear plan for the Reform UK party, moving beyond a “one man and an iPhone” model. Cummings described the Reform party as a vehicle for anti-establishment sentiments, suggesting Farage’s rising popularity reflects widespread discontent with traditional politics. He also expressed doubts about the Conservative Party’s future, predicting the ousting of current leader Kemi Badenoch before the end of the year…