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- Cheshire Gas Blast: Five Hospitalised Following Food Truck Explosion | UK News
- Living Without Heat or Electricity in Kyiv Amid -20°C Temperatures
- United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese Speaks on 20 February
- Sarah Ferguson Resided at Luxury Swiss Spa Amid Epstein Revelations
- EU Leaders Discuss Competitiveness and Green Deal at Retreat on February 20
- Lando Norris beats Max Verstappen to win F1 title at thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- Andrew’s Former Secretary Under Police Investigation Amid Royal Crisis
- Francesca Albanese Refuses To Resign as UN Rapporteur Amid Controversy
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Cheshire Gas Blast: Five Hospitalised Following Food Truck Explosion | UK News
10:00 am
TL:DR – Cheshire Gas Blast: Five Hospitalised Following Food Truck Explosion | UK News
- An explosion occurred during a charity event at Moseley Hall Farm in Knutsford, Cheshire.
- Five individuals sustained injuries and were hospitalised, four of whom were farm shop workers.
- The incident involved a gas canister explosion around 1pm on Saturday.
- Injuries are not life-threatening; the situation is not being treated as suspicious by police.
- A scheduled event was cancelled to prioritise the wellbeing of staff, with gratitude expressed to emergency responders.
Cheshire gas explosion: five in hospital after food truck explodes | News UK
The farm’s ‘Big Machine Event’ was taking place when the explosion happened (Picture: Google)
An explosion during a charity event at a farm in Cheshire led to five people being taken to hospital.
The gas canister blast happened at Moseley Hall Farm in Knutsford at around 1pm on Saturday, Cheshire Police said.
A fundraising day for the North West Air Ambulance Service was taking place on the site at the time.
Four of the five people injured in the incident were workers at the Lambing Shed Farm Shop, based at the farm.
In a post on social media, the business said they were ‘currently receiving medical care and are being supported by their families’.
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It continued: ‘We are extremely grateful to the emergency responders for their swift and professional assistance.’
One witness wrote beneath the post to say the explosion was ‘pretty scary’ and her older son was ‘still not himself’ after seeing it happen.
All five people were treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to hospital as a precaution.
A spokesperson for Cheshire Police said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing and the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
They said: ‘Officers swiftly attended the scene and found that a gas canister on the site had ignited and subsequently exploded.
‘Whilst enquiries are under way to fully establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, it is not being treated as suspicious.’
Another event due to take place tomorrow has now been cancelled, the Lambing Shed Farm Shop confirmed.
The post said: ‘This has not been an easy decision, but our priority right now is the wellbeing of our team.’
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Living Without Heat or Electricity in Kyiv Amid -20°C Temperatures
8:57 am
Get you up to speed: Living Without Heat or Electricity in Kyiv Amid -20°C Temperatures
Iryna, 38, lives in the Desnianskyi district of Kyiv with her family, facing daily challenges due to ongoing Russian strikes, which have resulted in power outages and the deaths of civilians. Last November, a Russian drone attack killed her in-laws at their home. Iryna describes the war as forcing her to abandon future plans and cope with a heightened sense of resilience that she never wanted.
Iryna’s experience reflects the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict, especially after losing her in-laws to a Russian drone strike. The term ‘resilience’ used to describe Ukrainians facing such hardships is viewed negatively by her, as it represents an unwanted burden rather than a commendable quality. Iryna emphasises a longing for life to return to normal, stating, “I really want things to change back to the way they were before.”
Iryna continues to face severe challenges as the war in Ukraine extends into its fourth year, dealing with power and heat outages while striving to protect her family. Despite the ongoing hardships, Iryna maintains hope for a return to better circumstances, expressing a strong desire for her life to change back to what it was before the conflict began.
What we know so far
The bleak reality of living in -20°C temperatures without heat or electricity | News World
Iryna told Metro the war turned her future plans into ‘dust’ (Picture: Iryna)
Iryna begins each morning with a flashlight, making her way through her apartment in Kyiv without heating or electricity.
She and her husband climb out of bed to turn on the gas stove to heat water and get their eight-year-old daughter ready for school after frigid nights.
Iryna, 38, lives in the Desnianskyi district of Kyiv with her family.
Four years ago, before the Russian invasion, she told Metro her life was peaceful.
‘We had a lot of plans for the future, both long-term and short-term, about trips, vacations, and things like that,’ she says.
‘Of course, the beginning of the war turned all of those plans into dust. Now, I don’t even have the room to dream like that.’
When temperatures dip low, Iryna and her husband sleep in the same bed with their daughter (Picture: Iryna)
Instead, Iryna and her husband think of ways to keep their eight-year-old daughter warm when temperatures drop.
Using layers of blankets, sleeping in the same bed, and filling water bottles in an attempt to keep the cold out.
‘We are tired. We are exhausted by this war and the new challenges that keep coming. We managed to adjust to power outages, then heat outages, then more attacks.’
‘These challenges become harsher and harsher. We don’t want to live like this,’ she tells Metro.
For four years, Russian strikes have continued to pummel Kyiv, knocking out power and killing hundreds of civilians.
Last November, a Russian drone smashed into Iryna’s in-laws’ home, killing them both.
Her mother-in-law and father-in-law were murdered by a Russian drone (Picture: Iryna)
Her in-laws’ kitchen was destroyed by the drone (Picture: Iryna)
As the war enters its fourth year today, the term ‘resilience’ has been thrown around to describe Ukrainians like Iryna, who are facing this violence firsthand. But she doesn’t take it as a compliment.
‘It’s an extra burden that was enforced on us [Ukrainians], something none of us actually wanted.
‘We wanted to live our lives. Now we have to be strong, even though we never asked to be,’ she tells Metro.
Iryna, like many others who have lived this way for almost half a decade now, says having to be strong and cope with no electricity, heat, and the death of loved ones isn’t a normal Ukrainian to be forced to live through.
‘I don’t treat this as a new normal. I really want things to change back to the way they were before. I still have hope that things will change for the better,’ she said.
In London, the lights are on. The heat is available to use if needed.
Residents in the UK have their own struggles with paying bills, but Iryna said those who are able to access these basic services shouldn’t take them for granted.
‘We used to take heating and electricity for granted,’ she says. ‘Now, we truly value it.’
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United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese Speaks on 20 February
8:00 am
Get you up to speed: Interview with UN Rapporteur on Palestinian Territories
Francesca Albanese, United Nations Special Rapporteur for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, participated in a recent interview discussing pressing issues facing Palestinians. She addressed concerns over human rights violations and the impact of ongoing conflicts in the region.
The interview has sparked significant responses, with various political figures calling for Albanese’s resignation due to her controversial remarks. Critics have expressed concerns regarding her impartiality in representing the UN’s position.
Following the interview, further discussions are expected regarding accountability in human rights matters in the occupied territories. Albanese’s remarks may prompt renewed calls for action from international bodies concerned with the situation.
What we know so far
Europe Today: Albanese joins us live amid calls from France for her resignation
Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, was featured in a recent interview where she highlighted human rights concerns affecting Palestinians. Albanese specifically mentioned ongoing violations and their implications for peace in the region.
The interview has ignited controversy, prompting numerous political figures to demand her resignation. Critics argue that her statements reflect a bias that undermines the UN’s objectivity on the issue.
As reactions continue to unfold, several factions within the political landscape are scrutinising Albanese’s comments. Some have claimed that her perspective could weaken diplomatic efforts in the area.
Looking ahead, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to the call for Albanese’s resignation. Discussions regarding human rights in Palestine are likely to escalate in light of this incident.
Sarah Ferguson Resided at Luxury Swiss Spa Amid Epstein Revelations
7:00 am
TL:DR – Sarah Ferguson Resided at Luxury Swiss Spa Amid Epstein Revelations
- Sarah Ferguson spent weeks at a luxury wellness clinic in Zurich amid scrutiny over her ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
- She has remained out of public view since December 12, 2025.
- Released emails reveal her close relationship with Epstein, including expressing gratitude and asking for financial support.
- Ferguson’s stay at the clinic cost nearly £13,000 per day.
- Reports indicate she has also been in the UAE and Qatar recently.
- Investigations into ex-husband Prince Andrew’s connections to Epstein are ongoing.
Sarah Ferguson ‘stayed at luxury Swiss wellness clinic while Epstein details broke’ | News UK
Sarah Ferguson reportedly spent several weeks at a luxury Swiss recovery clinic (Picture: AFP)
Sarah Ferguson reportedly spent several weeks at a top wellness clinic in Switzerland while details emerged about her close relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
The former Duchess of York reportedly checked into the Paracelsus Recovery centre in Zurich last December.
Ferguson has not been seen in public since appearing at the christening of her granddaughter Athena on December 12 at St James’ Palace.
Her ex-husband, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been repeatedly featured in emails released in the Epstein files, revealing the extent of his links with the convicted paedophile financier.
Sarah Ferguson has also reportedly been staying in the UAE and Qatar as damning evidence continues to emerge about her and her ex-husband’s dealings with Epstein (Picture: Getty Images)
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The files also shed light on Ferguson’s dealings with Epstein, who she once called ‘the brother I had always wanted’ and visited just days after the sex offender was released from prison.
A source told Daily Mail that Fergie had stayed in Zurich until the end of last month, where she had received treatment while at ‘her most vulnerable’.
The Paracelsus clinic charges approximately £13,000 a day and offers a range of treatments as well as access to a chef and chauffeur.
A three-day comprehensive health assessment costs £23,000, while prices for a seven-day executive detox start from around £115,000.
Sarah Ferguson and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor have both avoided the spotlight since further Epstein file releases (Picture: Getty Images)
According to the centre’s website, ultra-wealthy clients can expect ‘privacy, exclusivity, and personalised care you are accustomed to’.
Fergie had previously attended the clinic and even appeared in a promotional video with its founder Jan Gerber.
She wrote on Facebook that Paracelsus showcased ‘clinical excellence in a place of deep humanity’.
Ferguson added in an interview with the Telegraph that the clinic specialises in assisting those with mental health issues ‘often behind the facade of a public role’.
A friend of Ferguson’s in Switzerland said the former duchess was ‘crushed’ by the recent revelations.
Royal historian Andrew Lownie said that while Andrew and Fergie’s reputation in Britain had been permanently tarnished by the Epstein affair, wealthy figures in the Middle East would be happy to bankroll the pair.
Royal Lodge, where police are now carrying out searches, was Fergie and Andrew’s home for years (Picture: Shutterstock)
He added that even without an official royal title, Ferguson would continue to be seen as a royal figure in that part of the world.
Since her stay in Zurich, the former duchess has reportedly also spent time in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, the latter where she met her daughter, Princess Beatrice, while she was attending the Art Basel fair.
Emails disclosed as part of millions of published files showed that Ms Ferguson had asked Epstein for financial support while the paedophile remained under house arrest.
She also wrote to the financier thanking him for being a ‘supreme friend’ and took her children, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie for lunch with him less than a week after he walked free from jail.
In another embarrassing email, the former duchess appeared to ask Epstein to ‘just marry me’.
Many of her exchanges were conducted after Epstein was arrested for soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008.
Meanwhile, detectives are continuing a probe into Ferguson’s ex-husband Andrew, who was arrested earlier this week at the Sandringham estate.
A source in Norfolk suggested that Andrew, who was stripped of his royal titles last year and forced to give up the Royal Lodge in Windsor, was hardly bothered by the scandal.
Ferguson and Andrew lived together at the Royal Lodge for three decades after their divorce.
UK News has contacted Ferguson’s representatives for comment.
EU Leaders Discuss Competitiveness and Green Deal at Retreat on February 20
6:00 am
Get you up to speed: Enhancing European Competitiveness and Response to Security Concerns
The recent panel discussion on European competitiveness included insights from key figures like Mario Draghi and Vladimír Dlouhý. They emphasised the need to remove regulatory obstacles and reconsider the EU’s Green Deal to boost economic growth.
Vladimír Dlouhý pointed out that excessive regulatory targets may hinder the EU’s competitiveness against countries like the US and China. Schmit acknowledged the necessity of consulting industry prior to implementing climate policies while supporting the Green Deal’s goals.
Moving forward, Schmit stated that Draghi’s report advocates for a “pragmatic federalism” model, allowing EU leaders to face global challenges effectively. Discussions also highlighted changing EU-US relations, as illustrated by Kaja Kallas‘s recent address at the Munich Security Conference.
What we know so far
Podcast: Can the EU ever become a superpower?
The panel discussion on European competitiveness took place following a leaders’ retreat at a Medieval castle, featuring former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi as a special guest. According to Vladimír Dlouhý, president of Eurochambres, regulatory burdens should be lifted to enhance economic and productivity levels in the EU.
Dlouhý expressed concerns that the EU’s Green Deal could limit competitiveness with countries like the US and China if current policies persist. Nicolas Schmit, former EU Commissioner, recognised the importance of further industry consultation before implementing such climate policies, despite his support for the Green Deal.
Schmit added that Draghi’s report extends beyond deregulation, focusing on investment and organisational strategies for Europe. He quoted Draghi’s advocacy for “pragmatic federalism,” which involves transferring certain national powers to the EU for better cooperation on global issues.
This week’s Munich Security Conference also featured Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat, who rebuffed claims of a civilisational decline in Europe. According to Kait Bolongaro, Kallas’s remarks signal a shift in EU-US dynamics, asserting that Europe is not likely to yield as readily to US pressure as it did previously.
Lando Norris beats Max Verstappen to win F1 title at thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
5:00 am
Lando Norris beats Max Verstappen to win F1 title at thrilling Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Two-minute read
Lando Norris won the 2025 formula 1 World Championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday, finishing third behind race winner Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri. During a tense race, Norris’s podium secured the title, making him the first McLaren driver to win since Lewis Hamilton in 2008. Verstappen started from pole but could not retain championship hopes.
Source: Original report
Lando Norris won the 2025 Formula 1 world championship after beating Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri at a tense Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday. Despite Verstappen’s victory from pole position at Yas Marina, with Piastri finishing second, Norris secured the title with a third-place finish, marking a significant achievement for both himself and McLaren.
The 26-year-old becomes the 11th British driver to win the F1 drivers’ title and the first for McLaren since Sir Lewis Hamilton in 2008. Norris started the race second on the grid but was overtaken by teammate Piastri on the opening lap, yet he managed to fend off pressure from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc throughout.
Stewards Rule on Tsunoda Incident
A key moment in the race occurred when Norris attempted to overtake Yuki Tsunoda but was pushed off the track. The stewards later investigated the incident but ruled that Norris would not face penalties, instead penalising Tsunoda for his aggressive defensive manoeuvre.
Norris expressed his overwhelming emotions upon completing the race, stating, “It’s not just this year or the last seven or eight years I’ve been with McLaren, but the last 16 or 17 years of my life trying to chase this dream.” After his third-place finish, he celebrated by performing donuts in his McLaren car.
Championship Standings Confirmed
The final championship standings see Norris finishing with 423 points, just two points ahead of Verstappen’s 421 and Piastri’s 410. The intense battle through the season culminated in this closely contested finale at Yas Marina.
With the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lando Norris is officially crowned the 2025 Formula 1 world champion, solidifying his place in the sport’s history.
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