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Time of India
an hour ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Chellanam residents intensify protest seeking permanent solution for sea erosion
Kochi: Hundreds of Chellanam residents took out two protest rallies on Friday demanding immediate measures to prevent sea erosion. Expressing solidarity with the people, priests from the Alappuzha and Kochi dioceses held a hunger strike near the Thoppumpady BOT bridge, demanding the construction of a sea wall from Kannamally to Fort Kochi as an immediate solution to the issue. As the monsoon showers intensified, Chellanam experienced the highest ever sea surge in recent years. As more than 500 houses were affected by sea surge, the residents of Kannamaly and Puthanthodu regions of the Chellanam panchayat held a protest on Monday. The protesters also staged a blockade on the Alappuzha-Fort Kochi state highway. The rallies and the hunger strike on Friday were the continuation of these protests under the banner of 'Care Chellanam' collective. The mass rallies that commenced at 3.30pm from Palluruthy and Thoppumpady Santhom Junction concluded at the venue of the hunger strike. While the hunger strike which began at 10am at the BOT Junction was inaugurated by Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council vice-president Joseph Jude, a rally by priests from St Sebastian Church, Thoppumpady, was inaugurated by Kripasanam director Joseph Valiyaveettil. Varapuzha archdiocese auxiliary bishop Rev Antony Valunkal spoke at the event. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The sea wall in the panchayat's coastal areas was damaged in the 2017 cyclone Ockhi, accelerating the sea erosion. Following coastal residents' protests, the govt allocated Rs 340 crore for constructing a 12.5km sea wall from Chellanam fishing harbour towards the north, but only 7.35km was completed. The area from Puthenthode to Fort Kochi is currently experiencing intense sea erosion and construction has been completely halted. "Many homes here are either partially or completely destroyed, making them uninhabitable. We are expecting high waves next week as the sea becomes more powerful with the new moon. If authorities now send back people from relief camps to homes, they will have to return to the camp again next week. Since the temporary sandbags and geo bags were completely destroyed in the recent sea surge, the high waves expected during the new moon will severely affect the area," said general convenor of Chellanam-Kochi People's Forum V T Sebastian. Forum members also demanded that the govt should provide rental houses or pay rent for those living in damaged houses. The rallies were flagged off by KCBC secretary general Rev Thomas Tharayil and Kerala Latin Catholic Association state president Sherry J Thomas. The concluding meeting was inaugurated by Kottapuram diocese bishop Rev Ambrose Puthenveettil.
BBC News
2 hours ago
- BBC News
Forbury Gardens fifth anniversary memorial service held
A service has been held to mark the fifth anniversary of a deadly attack in a park in which three men were killed. James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails were fatally stabbed by Khairi Saadallah in Forbury Gardens, Reading, Berkshire, in was given a whole-life jail term for their at a memorial service attended by about 200 people, the mayor of Reading Alice Mpofu-Coles said people were "still moved" by the events of five years ago. "The families are incredibly grateful for all the support."It's a very difficult time for them, but they know many people in Reading are with them," she added.A private memorial service for family, friends and invited guests was held at nearby St Laurence's Church before a public ceremony at the memorial stone to Mr Furlong, Mr Ritchie-Bennett and Mr Wails in Forbury 200 people attended the service including friends and families of the victims, along with local dignitaries, representatives of the emergency services and members of the of people laid flowers - sunflowers, yellow roses and carnations - all flowers that were special to the three men who lost their lives on a similar summer evening.A minute's silence was also held to remember those who died, were injured and Office minister Seema Malhotra attended the event while a wreath was also laid on behalf of Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper. Speaking earlier in the week, Mr Furlong's father Gary said he was attending to "remember and celebrate" his son."It's important we keep their memories and their names in people's minds. Forbury gardens did happen and it's important we learn the lessons from what happened," he Furlong said relatives of victims have had to "drag" governments to make meaningful an inquest into the three men's deaths, judge coroner Sir Adrian Fulford concluded their deaths were avoidable and found major problems with intelligence sharing between park had been busy on 20 June 2020 when Saadallah launched his attack as the Covid-19 lockdown restrictions had just been his sentencing, London's Old Bailey heard the 26-year-old "executed" the men as an "act of religious jihad".Saadallah, who admitted the murders, had also pleaded guilty to the attempted murders of three other men who were also in the had briefly come to the attention of MI5 in 2019, but the information provided did not meet the threshold of had been released from prison on 5 June, days before the attack, the court Secretary Yvette Cooper has said she remains "determined to ensure that all the lessons learned from this terrible incident are acted on". You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Daily Mirror
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Reading and Leeds Festival bosses make huge line-up changes as more names added
Bosses behind Reading and Leeds Festival have added over 80 new names to their already huge line-up, with just over two months until the weekends kick off Reading and Leeds Festival have added dozens more names to their impressive line-up. With just over two months until thousands of fans flock to the fields for the annual event, they will see even more of the biggest names in music across various stages. Bosses behind the events at Richfield Avenue in Reading and Bramham Park in Leeds have come back with a stellar line-up for 2025. Earlier this year, the lines of Chappell Roan, Hozier, Bring Me The Horizon and Travis Scott were announced as headline acts. This year, they will be joined by the likes of AJ Tracey, Lola Young, Becky Hill, Trippie Redd, Enter Shikari, The Kooks, Rudim3ntal, Lancey Foux, Royel Otis, Sea Girls, Bloc Party, Soft Play, The Dare, Mannequin Pussy, DJ Ez and many more. Now, over 80 more names have been added to the line-up. The 2025 edition promises a diverse line-up catering to all tastes, featuring both current trendsetters in music and complimentary bespoke camping experiences across five unique campsites, marking the most significant revamp of camping at a UK festival to date. Leading today's announced acts is Leigh-Anne, who is carving out a huge solo career after years of shaping pop with Little Mix. Skye Newman, the first UK female solo artist to secure top 20 spots for her initial two singles in over ten years, will be performing, as well as a highly anticipated set from genre-defying indie rocker Bartees Strange. Houston-based trio Waterparks and North London R&B sensation Demae have been added to the Main Stage line-up, preceding D-Block Europe and Travis Scott. The innovative Chevron Stage welcomes more dynamic acts, including Charlotte Plank - one of the UK's most successful dance music creators, West Coast songwriter Still Woozy, and Nottingham's own LYVIA, joining stage headliners AJ Tracey, Becky Hill and Sammy Virj. El Paso quartet late night drive home will celebrate their debut album release this summer, while Sunday (1994) continue their dream-pop domination. Headlining the Festival Republic Stage on Thursday night in Leeds is rising pop sensation Chloe Qisha. Speaking about joining the line-up, Sunday (1994) said: "You met us on Monday, took us for a drink on Tuesday, made love to us on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and now you get to chill with Sunday (1994) at Reading & Leeds." Reading and Leeds are set to introduce two brand new stages, celebrating the underground electronic communities that are shaping modern UK culture. The Smirnoff Stage in Reading will feature a line-up including Riordan, IN PARALLEL, Lu. Re, MEGRA, Omar+, Stresshead and more. Meanwhile, the Reload Stage in Leeds will host DJ Semtex, [IVY], Dr Dubplate, Disrupta, Saint Ludo, Sophia Violet and Tommy Villiers amongst others. These stages aim to provide a platform for producers and DJs who are making significant strides and filling dancefloors worldwide - creating a fresh communal space for electronic music fans that highlights the current scene. The Aux Stage - the hub for innovative digital creators at Reading and Leeds - is set to return following its groundbreaking debut last year, boasting an even more star-studded lineup. The first headliner for 2025 has been announced as Brittany Broski. Mirror's top festivals and concerts for 2025 Radio 1 Big Weekend – Everything to know Glastonbury line-up in full Reading & Leeds line-up and site changes Tramlines – everything you need to know From her 'kombucha girl' fame to becoming a global sensation with a loyal online following of over 15 million, Brittany will grace Reading and Leeds with two exclusive in-conversation shows alongside trailblazing British presenter Charley Marlowe in Leeds. Additionally, top UK comedy podcasts JaackMaate's Happy Hour and Harry Pinero and Darkest Man's Old & Bald are set to make their mark at Reading and Leeds this summer, along with Josh & Moyo and two takeovers from The Rock Revival and Climate Live. The 'Unplugged' series is also making a comeback, showcasing exciting new musicians and offering fans an intimate acoustic performance and interview series. With more announcements on the horizon, The Aux Stage is the perfect platform for creators to deliver a variety of interactive shows and gives fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with the stars they adore online. This year promises more late-night entertainment across both sites, including a Silent Disco on the Festival Republic and Chevron Stage - featuring appearances from Brighton DJ Badger and takeovers from popular clubnight leaders such as Swiftogeddon, Pop Never Dies, UPRAWR and many more - as well as Silent Karaoke taking over The Aux after dark. The festival is renowned for its commitment to promoting up-and-coming talent, and the BBC Introducing Stage at Reading and Leeds is a prime platform for future headliners. This year will be no different with a line-up featuring Amie Blu, Ashley Singh, Chanel Yates, Cliffords, Déyyess, Girl Group, Jack Dean, Keo, Nxdia, Overpass, Phoebe Green, The Pill, unpeople and many more. There will also be special guest appearances throughout the weekend. BBC Introducing will be covering all the action on-air and on social media, with highlights set to be aired on BBC Introducing shows across the UK and on BBC Music's YouTube channel. Managing Director of Festival Republic, Melvin Benn said: "Reading & Leeds never stands still. We're always listening to the audience and thinking of how to deliver the value and experiences that they demand. This summer, we're adding a new underground electronic stage at both sites and boosting our late-night offering for those who want to dance into the early hours. "This continues the massively successful precedent set last year, with the award‑winning Chevron Stage and The Aux - which has already attracted huge stars like Brittany Broski for her debut festival show. The BBC Introducing Stage also returns and it truly is at R&L where it transforms careers. "Our free, overhauled camping options are also really resonating. With nearly half of Leeds weekend ticket holders having already signed up and Reading close behind, our investment in elevating what general camping at UK festivals can be is paying off. To have a weekend with historic headline moments like Chappell Roan, alongside emerging talent and influential voices, I am proud of R&L's continued development and I can't wait to see fans embracing it all." There has also been a dramatic change to camping across both sites this year. Every year, bosses often come up with ways to improve facilities and this year, they've gone above and beyond. This year, both festivals are set to unveil a host of new camping enhancements, programming, experiences and free extras as part of an overhauled campsite layout. With five new campsites up for grabs, festival-goers will be able to customise their weekend experience at no additional charge. This significant investment by Reading & Leeds Festival in these new features represents a major step forward in what camping can offer at a leading UK festival. Now, the festivals will be made up of five campsites – The Fields, The Garden, The Meadow, The Grove and The Valley. The Fields This is the spot for those seeking a lively atmosphere, fantastic vibes and the flexibility to customise their experience once they arrive. You can choose to be closer to the arenas or relax further away. Daytime activities include a standout Football Pitch (first introduced in Reading in 2025), Pop-Up Performances and more. No booking is required, with Weekend & Weekend + Early Entry Tickets automatically granting access to The Fields. The Garden An expansion of what was once Quiet Camp, this is the place for those seeking a more relaxed camping experience with limited noise after 1am. Daytime Activities at The Garden include Yoga, Meditation and the first-ever Reading & Leeds Run Club to kickstart the festival day. Spots can be booked for free via Ticketmaster. The Meadow Building on what was once Eco Camp, this is the space for those looking to enjoy the festival camping experience while minimising their environmental impact. To stay in this campsite, campers must agree to the following principles: Respect Your Fellow Campers, Respect The Environment (avoid littering, separating recyclable materials and not causing excess waste) + Leave The Campsite Exactly As You Found It. Daytime Activities at The Meadow include Yoga, sustainability-focused talks, upcycling workshops, and clothes swaps. Spots can be booked for free via Ticketmaster. The Grove A cosy and inviting hub for festival-goers seeking to camp within a supportive, like-minded community. The Grove champions inclusivity, respect, and fosters a positive environment where everyone can unwind and be themselves. In collaboration with Safer Spaces Now CIC, this camp is backed by gender-inclusive teams committed to creating a safer space for all. Daytime Activities at The Grove feature open mic sessions, film showings, karaoke and more. You can reserve your spot for free via Ticketmaster. The Valley A special campsite tailored for those attending the festival solo or in pairs. Ideal for those seeking some 'me time' during the festival and for those appreciating that everyone else in the campsite is in the same situation, it's a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow festival enthusiasts and create new memories in the festival spirit. Daytime Activities at The Valley include 'FYP (Find Your Pal)', 'Meet Me Here' daily gatherings and a 'Link Up Lounge'. Spots can be booked for free via Ticketmaster. Major improvements are coming to all campsites at both Reading and Leeds festivals. The existing toilets will be replaced with vacuum toilet cubicles, which use 75% less water than standard flushing toilets and reduce our carbon footprint by 66%. These new facilities will arrive in collapsible units for efficient transport and include fresh water hand wash basins with liquid soap and mirrors. The Meadow (Eco Camp) will continue to feature compost sawdust toilets – the ultimate gold standard for sustainability. More showers will be introduced across all campsites at both festivals, ensuring shorter queues and more private facilities for campers. 'Get Ready With Me' stations, once a paid-for extra, will now be available for free throughout the festival campsites. These areas will include mirrors, dressing tables & seating, plugs for straighteners/hair dryers and toiletries. Each campsite will also see an increase in decor and production, introducing unique experiences not seen at Reading & Leeds before. New non-music activities and programming will be added to the festival weekend, ranging from run clubs and yoga to movie screenings amongst many others. A zero tolerance behaviour policy will be reinforced across the whole festival site, with refreshed codes of conduct and 24/7 security, building on previous safety measures, adding to a new level of security in 2025. Reading and Leeds have a cornerstone of the UK's music scene, has been the backdrop for some of the most memorable moments in worldwide music over the past ten years. Stormzy's electrifying 2018 performance was a game-changer for grime, Billie Eilish's 2019 set confirmed her status as a generational icon, and Arctic Monkeys' triumphant comeback in 2022 enthralled both long-time fans and newcomers. Dave's unforgettable interaction with the crowd during 'Thiago Silva' in 2019 highlighted the festival's unique bond between performers and their audience, while Liam Gallagher hinted at an Oasis reunion during his Reading set this summer. This blend of nurturing artistic growth and crafting culturally significant moments has cemented Reading & Leeds' reputation as more than just a music festival - it's a crucial pulse that continues to shape and celebrate the international music scene. Consistently pushing boundaries, Reading & Leeds bagged The Innovation Award at the UK Festival Awards 2024 for the groundbreaking Chevron Stage. Redefining what's possible for an open-air venue of this magnitude with unprecedented immersive lighting and stage design, The Chevron Stage heralds a new chapter for Reading & Leeds.
The Sun
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
UK's biggest family friendly rave to relaunch at six locations this summer with live DJs, rides and kids events
THE UK'S biggest family rave is to relaunch this summer with a huge DJ line-up and funfair rides. Raver Tots has unveiled a massive family festival tour for 2025, heading to six locations. 3 Across July and August, the festival will be heading to Reading, Bexley, Bristol, Southend, Brighton and Richmond. The line-up includes performances from So Solid Crew's Romeo, Lisa Maffia and Dan Da Man. There will also be performances by General Levy, Artful Dodger, Matt Jam Lamont, The Wideboys, Mollie Collins, Charlotte Devaney, Nicky Blackmarket and more. There will be a range of activities at the festival too, and even confetti canons. The attractions this year will also be bigger than usual, with a free funfair, giant inflatables, games, crafts with Scola Kids and LYRA, face painting and glitter art, a dance tent, street food and a bar for the grown-ups. Saoirse Holland, Raver Tots director, said: "We're so excited to launch our biggest summer festival yet! "This year is all about celebrating life with the people we love. "We've pulled out all the stops so there is something for everyone; music, fun, colour, energy and we can't wait to see families back on the dancefloor together! "All Raver Tots festivals sold out last year with no tickets on the door and thousands on the waiting list. "This year, more than half of all tickets have already gone on the release day - so if you are coming, early purchase is strongly advised." Waterpark to have Wave Festival this summer Tickets start at £5 for babies, £20 for kids and £25 for adults. All the music played at the event will be a child-safe sound levels and there will be inclusive spaces for kids to explore, play and rave alongside their grownups. Raver Tots is the UK's original family rave and festival. Each year around 15,000 people head to each event, which all raise money for charities supporting children with autism, ADHD and more. One former attendee said: "For those of us that felt like our raving days were behind us because we burdened the world with our spawn, Raver Tots is sick. 3 "They accommodate for the kids and adults, the music is sick and you can relive some your youth whilst introducing your kids to the DNB raving scene. "My 18-month-old loved it!" The full festival dates and locations are: 20th July – Reading, Prospect Park 10th August – Bexley, Danson Park 17th August – Bristol, Amphitheatre & Waterfront Square 25th August – Southend, Garon Park 25th August – Brighton Beach, Madeira Drive Parking 31st August – Richmond, Old Deer Park Car Park These are all our favourite camping buys tried and tested for festivals and family holidays – starting from just 15p. Plus, how to have a 'no-spend summer holiday' with a family of four – free festival tickets, meals at Bella Italia and more. 3
Spectator
10 hours ago
- Politics
- Spectator
Will Emily Maitlis now apologise to Rupert Lowe?
The News Agents podcasters appear increasingly less focused on facts and more on taking a pop at people who hold different views to them. Ex-Reform man Rupert Lowe was a recent casualty. He was invited onto the podcast to speak to Maitlis – who wasted no time in tearing into him, going so far as to suggest the independent parliamentarian was 'racist' after he spoke about Pakistani grooming gangs. But after the publication of Baroness Casey's review this week, it would appear Maitlis is due a rather large slice of humble pie… On the episode, Maitlis asked Lowe quizzically: 'Why do you only talk about Pakistani grooming gangs? There are ten times as many white grooming gang suspects.' She then added: 'You are focusing on Pakistani grooming gangs because, probably, you're racist.' Er, right. Mr S wonders what exactly Maitlis made of Casey's review this week, then. It suggests that, where ethnicity data was logged (in around a third of the cases of group-based child sexual exploitation) there was an overrepresentation of Asian and Pakistani men. And, as Mr S has written before, Pakistani men are up to five times as likely to be responsible for child sex grooming offences than the general population, according to figures from the Hydrant Programme, which investigates child sex abuse. Around one in 73 Muslim men over 16 have been prosecuted for 'group-localised child sexual exploitation' in Rotherham, research by academics from the universities of Reading and Chichester has revealed. How very interesting… So will Maitlis now apologise to Lowe over her attack? Don't hold your breath…
