The Metropolitan Police has said it will take no further action against Green Party leader Zack Polanski over a picture he shared on social media.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage reported Mr Polanski to the police after he shared an image depicting a man wearing a black T-shirt with a picture of a guillotine and the words: “We’re only making plans for Nigel.”
But in a statement on Wednesday, the Met said it would not be pursuing the case, as “an extensive investigation was deemed to be disproportionate and an unreasonable use of police resources.”
A Reform UK spokesperson has criticised the police’s decision to take no further action against Mr Polanski, saying: “Once again we see that we are living in a two-tier Britain.”
The police have examined the evidence and concluded that no crime was committed.”
A Green Party spokesperson said: “The police have examined the evidence and concluded that no crime was committed.”
The spokesperson said “the outcome was obvious from the start” and claimed Reform UK was “always using the case as a political football for their own cynical purposes to distract from questions” about how Mr Farage’s party is funded.
The force said a crime should be recorded in relation to the wearing of the T-shirt, and as that happened in Bristol, the case has been transferred to Avon and Somerset Police to consider what further action should follow.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski said he ‘made a mistake’ over a social media post (Rich McCarthy/PA)
A statement from the Met said: “Officers have reviewed the reports, giving careful consideration to whether further action should follow. That review reached the following conclusions:
“It is unlikely that the sharing of the image online would constitute a criminal offence. Officers have considered telecommunications, public order and other offences, including incitement, in reaching this conclusion.
“The image in question was the 18th in a post containing 20 images. The person named on the reports received has stated publicly, either directly or in statements issued on his behalf, that he had not seen the specific image in question when he accepted the invitation to collaborate.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage reported Mr Polanski to the police (PA Wire)
“Steps were taken to remove the post from his account when the issue was raised.
Since then, around 130 accounts have shared the post (whether by collaboration, reposting or sharing). The image has additionally been shared on many more occasions on other social media platforms.
We must not treat individuals differently solely because of their public profile; therefore, any investigation would need to consider not just the actions of the individual named in the reports but also those of all 130+ people and organisations.
Given that it is unlikely their actions would have ultimately constituted an offence, such an extensive investigation was deemed to be a disproportionate and unreasonable use of police resources.
“Accordingly, no further action will be taken in relation to the sharing of the image online.”
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Trump’s fury at Iran has once again become a major international news story as President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of Tehran over its regional activities, military posture, and alleged support for armed groups across the Middle East. His latest remarks come at a time of heightened tensions, with the United States and its allies closely monitoring developments in the region.
While the administration says its actions are intended to deter further aggression and protect American interests, Iran has rejected the accusations and warned against what it describes as increasing U.S. pressure. The exchange has renewed concerns about regional stability and the risk of further escalation.
Why Trump Is Criticising Iran
President Trump has repeatedly accused Iran of actions that, according to his administration, threaten security in the Middle East. Among the key concerns are the following:
Alleged support for armed groups in the region.
Development of missile and military capabilities.
There are threats to international shipping routes.
Regional influence is exerted through allied organisations.
The administration argues that a firm response is necessary to protect U.S. personnel, allies, and global trade.
Iran, however, has consistently denied destabilising the region and maintains that its policies are defensive in nature.
Rising tensions between the United States and Iran remain in focus.
Regional Security Remains Fragile
The Middle East remains one of the world’s most strategically important regions, with conflicts and political disputes affecting global security and energy markets.
A gradual easing of tensions if dialogue progresses.
The direction of events will depend on decisions made by both Washington and Tehran, as well as the involvement of regional and international partners.
Regional stability remains a priority as diplomatic efforts continue.
Conclusion
Trump’s fury at Iran highlights the continuing strain in U.S.–Iran relations and the broader challenges facing the Middle East. Strong rhetoric, military preparedness, and diplomatic negotiations are unfolding simultaneously, reflecting the complexity of the situation.
While both sides remain firm in their positions, many international observers hope diplomacy will prevail and reduce the risk of further escalation. The coming weeks are likely to be critical in determining whether tensions ease or continue to rise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Trump criticising Iran?
The Trump administration says Iran’s regional activities, missile programme, and support for allied armed groups threaten both regional and international security.
How has Iran responded?
Iran has rejected many of the accusations, saying its policies are defensive and criticising U.S. sanctions and military pressure.
Could tensions affect global oil prices?
Yes. Because Iran is located near the Strait of Hormuz, increased tensions can influence global energy markets and oil prices.
Is diplomacy still possible?
Yes. Many countries continue to encourage negotiations and diplomatic engagement to reduce the risk of further conflict.
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Planes dump water on French wildfires as temperatures rise, while firefighters across southern France battle rapidly spreading blazes fuelled by extreme heat, dry vegetation, and strong winds. A fleet of water-bombing aircraft and helicopters has been deployed to slow the advance of the fires, while thousands of firefighters work on the ground to protect homes, forests, and communities.
Authorities have warned that soaring temperatures are creating ideal conditions for wildfires, prompting evacuations in some areas and raising concerns that the fire season could become one of the most challenging in recent years.
Aircraft and firefighters respond to wildfires in southern FranceAircraft and firefighters respond to wildfires in southern France
Aircraft Play a Crucial Role
Aerial firefighting has become one of the most effective tools for tackling large wildfires. Specially equipped aircraft collect water from nearby lakes or reservoirs and then drop thousands of litres over the flames.
Their main objectives are to:
Slow the spread of the fire.
Protect homes and infrastructure.
Support firefighters on the ground.
Reach remote or mountainous areas.
Reduce fire intensity before ground crews move in.
While aircraft cannot extinguish large wildfires on their own, they are essential for containing fast-moving blazes.
Heatwave Creates Dangerous Conditions
France has experienced unusually high temperatures, with many regions facing prolonged hot and dry weather.
The combination of:
Extreme heat,
Low humidity,
Dry forests,
And gusty winds,
has significantly increased the risk of wildfires spreading quickly.
Meteorologists say that vegetation dries out rapidly during heatwaves, making forests and grasslands far more vulnerable to ignition.
Firefighters Face Difficult Battle
Thousands of firefighters have been sent to affected areas, working continuously to stop fires from reaching populated communities.
Ground crews continue working alongside aerial firefighting operations.
Residents Urged to Stay Alert
Authorities have advised residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and follow official instructions.
Safety recommendations include the following:
Avoiding unnecessary travel near wildfire zones.
Preparing emergency evacuation plans.
Keeping doors and windows closed if smoke is present.
Please report any signs of new fires immediately.
This follows updates from local emergency services.
Some communities have been temporarily evacuated as a precaution while firefighters work to contain the flames.
Environmental Impact
Wildfires affect more than forests alone. Large fires can have lasting consequences for:
Wildlife habitats.
Air quality.
Local agriculture.
Tourism.
Water resources.
Biodiversity.
Smoke from major fires can travel hundreds of kilometres, affecting air quality well beyond the immediate fire zone.
Climate Change and Longer Fire Seasons
Scientists have warned that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves across Europe.
Hotter, drier summers are contributing to:
Longer wildfire seasons.
Faster fire spread.
More severe droughts.
This will put greater pressure on emergency services.
Although individual fires have many causes, experts say that warmer conditions can increase the likelihood of fires growing rapidly once they start.
International Cooperation
France regularly collaborates with neighbouring European countries during severe wildfire seasons.
Under European civil protection agreements, countries may provide:
Water-bombing aircraft.
Helicopters.
Firefighters.
Specialist equipment.
Technical expertise.
This cooperation enables the sharing of resources when multiple regions face simultaneous wildfire threats.
Firefighting efforts continue as France battles dangerous wildfires.
What Happens Next?
Emergency services will continue monitoring weather conditions closely over the coming days.
Their priorities include:
Containing active fires.
Preventing new outbreaks.
Protecting communities.
Assessing damage.
Restoring affected areas once conditions improve.
Officials have warned that continued high temperatures could keep the wildfire risk elevated until cooler weather and meaningful rainfall arrive.
Conclusion
Planes dump water on French wildfires as temperatures rise, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing emergency services during another intense European wildfire season. Aircraft, helicopters, and thousands of firefighters are working together to slow the spread of the fires and protect lives and property.
With heatwaves becoming more frequent and wildfire risks increasing, authorities are urging residents to remain cautious while continuing efforts to contain the blazes. The coming days will be critical in determining how quickly firefighters can bring the fires under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are aircraft used to fight wildfires?
Water-bombing aircraft help slow the spread of fires by dropping large quantities of water or fire retardant on active flames and surrounding vegetation.
Why are wildfires spreading so quickly in France?
High temperatures, dry vegetation, low humidity, and strong winds have created conditions that allow fires to spread rapidly.
Can water-bombing planes extinguish wildfires?
Aircraft are highly effective at reducing fire intensity, but they usually work alongside ground firefighters to fully contain and extinguish fires.
How can residents stay safe during wildfires?
People should follow evacuation orders, avoid affected areas, monitor official updates, and report any new signs of fire to emergency services.
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Ben Duckett stars as Trent Rockets men hand Welsh Fire men their first defeat of the season in a thrilling encounter in The Hundred 2026, producing a match-winning innings that ended Welsh Fire’s unbeaten run.
Duckett’s composed yet aggressive batting guided Trent Rockets to a memorable victory, helping his side chase down a competitive target and strengthen their position in the tournament standings. The result marked Welsh Fire’s first loss of the campaign after an impressive start to the season.
Ben Duckett plays a match-winning innings for Trent Rockets.Ben Duckett plays a match-winning innings for Trent Rockets.
Duckett Leads the Chase
Opening the innings, Ben Duckett played with confidence from the start, finding the boundary regularly while rotating the strike effectively.
His innings featured:
Elegant cover drives.
Quick running between the wickets.
Intelligent shot selection.
Calm decision-making under pressure.
Duckett built valuable partnerships with his teammates, ensuring Trent Rockets remained in control of the chase despite occasional wickets falling at the other end.
His performance demonstrated why he is regarded as one of England’s most reliable white-ball batters.
Welsh Fire Set a Competitive Total
Batting first, Welsh Fire posted a challenging score thanks to several important contributions from their top and middle order.
The innings included the following:
Positive starts from the opening batters.
Aggressive stroke play during the middle overs.
Late acceleration in the closing stages.
Valuable lower-order runs.
Although the total looked competitive, Trent Rockets believed it was well within reach on a good batting surface.
Welsh Fire posted a competitive total before Trent Rockets began their successful chase.
Trent Rockets Keep Their Composure
Rather than chasing the target recklessly, Trent Rockets paced their innings intelligently.
Key factors behind their success included:
Strong opening partnership.
Sensible shot selection.
Effective strike rotation.
Timely boundaries.
Calm finishing under pressure.
Duckett anchored the innings while allowing his teammates to play naturally around him.
Bowlers Make Important Contributions
Before Duckett’s heroics with the bat, Trent Rockets’ bowlers ensured Welsh Fire could not post an even bigger total.
The bowling attack successfully
Took wickets at crucial moments.
Restricted boundary scoring.
Applied pressure during the middle phase.
Delivered disciplined death bowling.
Their efforts ensured the target remained achievable.
Welsh Fire’s Winning Run Comes to an End
Welsh Fire had entered the match with an unbeaten record and plenty of confidence.
However, Trent Rockets exposed several weaknesses by applying pressure early and limiting partnerships.
Applying pressure early.
Limiting partnerships.
Maintaining disciplined bowling.
Holding important catches.
Although Welsh Fire remain among the tournament’s strongest teams, this defeat serves as a reminder that every match in The Hundred presents a new challenge.
Trent Rockets celebrate an important victory over Welsh Fire.
What the Result Means
The victory gives Trent Rockets valuable momentum as the competition progresses.
Key takeaways include:
Trent Rockets strengthen their position in the standings.
Welsh Fire suffer their first defeat but remain strong contenders.
Duckett has enjoyed an impressive run across all formats in recent seasons.
His strengths include:
Fast scoring without unnecessary risks.
Excellent placement of shots.
Ability to adapt to different match situations.
Consistency under pressure.
Performances like these continue to enhance his reputation as one of England’s leading limited-overs batters.
Conclusion
Ben Duckett starred as the Trent Rockets handed the Welsh Fire their first defeat of the season in one of the standout matches of The Hundred 2026. His composed innings, supported by disciplined bowling and strong teamwork, helped Trent Rockets secure a decisive victory against previously unbeaten opponents.
For Welsh Fire, the defeat is unlikely to derail their campaign, but it highlights the competitive nature of this year’s tournament. As The Hundred continues, both teams will be aiming to build momentum and secure places in the knockout rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the star performer for Trent Rockets?
Ben Duckett produced a match-winning innings that guided Trent Rockets to victory.
Why was this result significant?
The win handed Welsh Fire their first defeat of the 2026 season after an unbeaten start.
What competition was the match part of?
The match was played in The Hundred 2026, England and Wales’ 100-ball cricket competition.
What does the result mean for both teams?
Trent Rockets gain valuable momentum, while Welsh Fire remain strong contenders despite losing their unbeaten record.
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When news broke on the morning of Wednesday, July 29, 2026, that Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard had died in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan on the outskirts of Dublin, tributes poured in from every corner of the music world. Presidents, peers, and fans mourned the loss of a beloved Oscar winner. Yet the most piercing detail in the coverage was not about awards or albums. Hansard leaves behind his wife, Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son, Christy.
Behind the man who won an Academy Award for “Falling Slowly” from the 2007 film Once was a private world he had built slowly and, by his admission, late in life. This book is the story of that world: the woman he married, the little boy who reshaped him, and the family life that had come to define his final years.
Glen Hansard performing live on stage with his acoustic guitar, remembered for his devotion to family and his young son Christy
A Late-Blooming Family Man
For most of his adult life, relentless motion defined Glen Hansard. He toured with The Frames, formed the folk duo The Swell Season with Markéta Irglová, released solo records, appeared in benefit concerts, and led Dublin’s annual Christmas Eve charity busk on Grafton Street. Domesticity was not a word people associated with him.
That changed in his early fifties. Musician Glen Hansard was married to Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, and the couple welcomed their son in 2022. Hansard was 52 when he became a father for the first time, and he spoke about the experience with a candour that surprised even his long-time followers.
In a widely quoted 2023 interview, Hansard shared his thoughts on fatherhood: “For 52 years, I was the most important person in my life, and then suddenly, I got a complete perspective shift, and I’m absolutely loving it.” He added a line that has resurfaced in almost every tribute since his death: he could not believe he had waited so long to do it.
Hansard’s wife is a Finnish poet who kept a low public profile even as her husband’s fame grew. Saaritsa is a Finnish poet who resides in Ireland. According to her bio on the website of the literary event Lahti International Writers’ Reunion (LIWRE), Maire was born in 1992. She is well known for translating the Runoja, the poetry collection by Irish poet Michael O’Loughlin, into Finnish.
Their courtship was unconventional and deeply romantic. According to accounts published in the wake of Hansard’s death, the couple began their relationship around 2018. In the immediate aftermath of her death, Glen placed his mother’s ring on Máire’s finger at the graveside and said quietly, “Now we’re married.” He later told the story on the Irish chat programme The Late Late Show, describing it as the moment their union became real to him, long before any formal ceremony. The official wedding took place in late December 2022, in a private ceremony a few months after the birth of their son Christy in October of that year.
That graveside proposal in July 2020, honouring his late mother, set the tone for a partnership shaped by grief, poetry, and quiet devotion.
Meet Christy: The Little Boy Who Grounded a Restless Troubadour
Glen Hansard’s only child, a son named Christy, was born in October 2022. By the time of his father’s death in July 2026, he was three years old.
The name Christy carries profound meaning. According to a tribute published by The Irish Times, he married the Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa and they had a son, Christy, named for Christy Dignam, Christy Moore and – most especially – his great friend, the late singer-songwriter Mic Christopher.
Glen Hansard with his son and family
Mic Christopher was a close friend of Hansard’s who died tragically young in 2001, and honouring his memory through his son’s name was a gesture that spoke volumes about the loyalty Hansard carried with him through life.
The Irish Times interview from October 2023, conducted while Christy was just one year old, captured a rare glimpse of the singer’s domestic life. Glen Hansard’s one-year-old son, Christy, is burbling away in the singer’s arms, listening to us talk. “His mouth is right next to the receiver, but he’s just very quietly listening.”
A Life Split Between Dublin and Helsinki
One of the most distinctive features of the family Hansard built was its dual nationality and dual base. The Hansard-Saaritsa household maintained homes in both Ireland and Finland, giving young Christy an unusually cross-cultural upbringing.
It is, the 53-year-old admits, all change for him and his wife, the Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa. The family is in Ireland – “where the heart belongs” – when we speak, but they also live in Helsinki.
This arrangement was practical as much as it was sentimental. When Hansard was on tour, his wife and son could travel to Finland to be near his extended family. Hansard described the balancing act with characteristic self-awareness. “Now that we have the place in Helsinki, Maire and Christy can go there, which means they’re closer to family.”
Timeline: Glen Hansard’s Personal Milestones
Year
Milestone
1970
Born Glen James Hansard on 21 April in Ballymun, Dublin
2006–2009
Relationship with Czech musician Markéta Irglová during One era
2018 (approx.)
Begins relationship with Finnish poet Máire Saaritsa
July 2020
Symbolic proposal to Máire at his mother’s graveside
October 2022
Son Christy is born
December 2022
Formal wedding ceremony with Máire Saaritsa
2023
Speaks publicly about fatherhood in The Irish Times interview
2025
The Swell Season releases Forward, featuring a song about Christy
29 July 2026
Dies in a motorcycle crash in Lucan, Dublin, aged 56
How Fatherhood Reshaped His Music
Christy’s arrival did not just change Hansard’s daily life. It seeped directly into his songwriting. His late-career work carried a softer, more reflective quality that fans and critics quickly connected to his new role at home.
The most direct example is a song written specifically for his son. On The Swell Season’s 2025 album Forward, Hansard wrote a song for three-year-old Christy called Factory Street Bells.
The lyrics quoted in that Irish Times tribute reveal a father who understood the weight of his absences on the road. The song reads in part, according to the publication:
For a songwriter who had spent decades writing about heartbreak, longing, and street-level struggle, this moment was a strikingly tender lyrical turn. It represented what many close observers described as the softening of a restless artistic soul.
The Contrast With His Earlier Public Romance
Hansard’s marriage and family life stand in interesting contrast to the highly publicised relationship of his younger years. In the mid-2000s, he was romantically linked with his Once co-star. Markéta Irglová is a Czech-Icelandic singer-songwriter, musician, and actress who starred in the 2007 film Once, which earned her a number of major awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Falling Slowly”, with co-writer and co-star Glen Hansard.
Their romance played out under an international spotlight during the film’s Oscar campaign and dissolved amicably a few years later. Irglová went on to marry and start a family in Iceland, while Hansard remained single until his late forties. When he did finally settle down with Máire Saaritsa, the couple made a deliberate choice to keep their world small, private, and largely offline.
The Financial Realities of a Working Musician-Father
One striking element of Hansard’s public reflections on family life was his honesty about money. Despite the Oscar, the Grammy nominations, and the Broadway success of the Once musical, Hansard never presented himself as wealthy. Fatherhood sharpened this awareness.
Fatherhood deeply affected him. As he moved between living in Finland and Ireland, financial security was on his mind for him and his family. “Funny as it sounds, with all the success, the money is something you have to go out and earn constantly. It’s not something that you just have all put away and it’s all sorted,” he said.
That candour was unusual for a public figure of his stature and endeared him further to fans who saw him as an authentic working musician rather than a celebrity.
Why This Family Story Matters
In journalistic terms, Glen Hansard’s family life matters because it reframes how people will understand his legacy. The public narrative for nearly two decades was built around a single defining image: the busker who won an Oscar. The private narrative he cultivated in his final years was quieter but no less significant.
He became a husband at 52. He became a father at 52. He was 56 when he died. His son will grow up with only three years of direct memory of his father but with a body of recorded music, a documented interview archive, and at least one song written explicitly in his honour.
For a generation of fans who first met Hansard through Once in 2007, the news that he leaves behind a three-year-old boy has been particularly difficult to absorb. It reframes the tragedy of his sudden death, transforming it from the loss of an artist into the loss of a young family’s father.
Interesting Facts About Glen Hansard’s Family Life
Hansard was 52 years old when his only child was born, an age that made his fatherhood a subject of frequent interview questions.
His son Christy is named after three men from Irish music: Christy Dignam of Aslan, folk legend Christy Moore, and Hansard’s late friend Mic Christopher.
The couple’s relationship began around 2018 but was not made formal until a private ceremony in December 2022.
Máire Saaritsa is roughly 22 years younger than her husband and is a published poet in her own right.
The family split time between Dublin and Helsinki, giving Christy a bilingual upbringing.
Hansard reportedly stopped drinking and slowed his touring pace after becoming a father.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many children did Glen Hansard have?
Glen Hansard had one child, a son named Christy. Christy was born in October 2022 and was three years old at the time of his father’s death in July 2026.
Who was Glen Hansard’s wife?
Glen Hansard was married to Máire Saaritsa, a Finnish poet born in 1992. She is best known in Finland for translating Irish poet Michael O’Loughlin’s collection Runoja into Finnish. The couple married in a private ceremony in December 2022.
When did Glen Hansard get married?
Glen and Máire held a formal wedding ceremony in late December 2022, a few months after the birth of their son. Hansard also considered a symbolic private moment at his mother’s graveside in July 2020, when he placed his mother’s ring on Máire’s finger, as the true beginning of their union.
Why did Glen Hansard name his son Christy?
The name honours three important figures in Irish music: Aslan frontman Christy Dignam; folk legend Christy Moore; and above all, Hansard’s close friend, the late singer-songwriter Mic Christopher, who died in 2001.
Did Glen Hansard have children with Markéta Irglová?
No. Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová had a romantic relationship from 2006 to 2009, following the release of Once, but they did not have children together. Irglová later married and started a family in Iceland.
Where did Glen Hansard live with his family?
The family split their time between Ireland, where Hansard’s roots and career were based, and Helsinki, Finland, where his wife’s family lived. Reports variously placed their Irish home in Dublin and County Kildare.
How did fatherhood change Glen Hansard?
Hansard spoke openly about a “complete perspective shift” after becoming a father at 52. He reportedly cut back on drinking, adjusted his touring schedule, and wrote directly about his son in his later music, including the 2025 song “Factory Street Bells” on The Swell Season’s album Forward.
How old was Glen Hansard when he died?
Glen Hansard was 56 years old at the time of his death on 29 July 2026. He died in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan, on the outskirts of Dublin.
A solar eclipse does not happen often, so it is important to have a prime vantage point. London might not be able to offer the total eclipse experience that people in Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain will be able to marvel at on Wednesday 12 August. But it will be the largest partial solar eclipse – when the moon moves to cover the sun – that will be witnessed in the UK in over a quarter of a century.
It is estimated that around 90% of the sun will be obscured by the moon, triggering a rare and stunning natural phenomenon.
According to Royal Museums Greenwich, which includes the Royal Observatory, a solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, moon and sun align. The moon passes in front of the sun and blocks its light, casting a small shadow on Earth.”
The observatory said it will be a 64-year wait until 2090 for the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK, so it is worth taking the chance to see a natural phenomenon in 2026.
Local school kids wear protective glasses to watch a partial solar eclipse from Greenwich Park.
Getty Images
Where to watch the solar eclipse in London?
Just as was the case in 1999, Cornwall, which experienced a total eclipse 27 years ago, is forecast to be the best place in the UK to watch the eclipse. Spectators gathering in popular spots such as Land’s End and The Lizard Peninsula will enjoy 95% coverage.
But London’s hills and open spaces will still offer decent vantage points to see the performance in the sky.
This year’s solar eclipse will begin at 6:17pm on August 12 for those based in London. The height of the eclipse is expected at 7:13pm for Londoners and it will last around 1 hour and 49 minutes until 8:06pm.
Greenwich Park is likely to be popular with people wanting to witness the solar eclipse
Why not watch it where the experts are based? With the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian line on one side and the view of the London skyline on the other, this London beauty spot is sure to have not only a stunning view of the partial eclipse but also a vibrant atmosphere to match. Situated in the south-east of the city, it should offer a wide vista as the sun comes down in the west.
For those finding a spot to see it for themselves, there are strict safety guidelines to follow when it comes to eyesight protection. The Royal Observatory states that a person should never look directly at the Sun without the appropriate filters, providing information on how to watch it safely.
For those in south-east London less fond of crowds, Telegraph Hill, situated near Nunhead, could prove the ideal place to set up camp on August 12. It still offers that east-to-west angle while being slightly further from the tourist hub of Greenwich.
Offering views over London Zoo and well beyond, Primrose Hill, part of Regent’s Park in north London, is sure to be popular among those looking to catch a glimpse of the powerful solar display.
Rising to 98 metres, Parliament Hill is one of London’s highest natural points, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.
Visitors to this part of Hampstead Heath on August 12 will be able to contrast man-made brilliance with natural beauty as they take in the effect of the eclipse while also spotting St Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin and other major London landmarks on the horizon. Alexandra Palace Summit to open 'UK's highest roof walk'
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Alexandra Palace is renowned for its views over London
Slightly further out of London, the hill between Muswell Hill and Wood Green that Alexandra Palace sits on was chosen for its high vantage point by the BBC when first transmitting television signals in 1936.
For that same reason, it should be a fine place to watch the partial solar eclipse, with the palace’s perch situated well above the tree canopy line, giving clear views of the sky over London.
The high elevation of Crystal Palace on the Norwood Ridge will provide an open, elevated view toward the west where the eclipse will peak.
The upper Italian terraces of the south London landmark and the open grass areas of its park should provide plenty of space to locate a spot to watch the sun and moon fusion without tall buildings blocking the view.
Stepping inside the Poo Palace was just one part of my investigation as the host of The Standard’s podcast, Thames Unfiltered. Over six episodes, we look at the condition of the River Thames, from the pristine Cotswold country streams where it begins to the high-stakes financial and environmental crisis unfolding in the heart of the capital.
I feel like I’m in a London-maxxing wedding venue, under a great dome surrounded by ornate painted ironwork and soaring, decorated Dalek-like columns. Or a cathedral to industrial chic. But this is no place of worship (unless you worship at the altar of the digestive system) – I’m at Abbey Mills Pumping Station, aka “Poo Palace”.
It’s a working – and beautiful – part of the capital’s sewage system where millions of tonnes of waste are raised up 12 metres on a journey from Londoners’ loos to sewage treatment plants. Behind a barbed wire security fence, it’s off-limits for visitors.
The Standard’s podcast, Thames Unfiltered
Huge sewage treatment works such as Abbey Mills Pumping Station are vital for Londoners’ clean water supply
From the multi-billion-pound engineering marvels that fill up our water bottles to the issues at the heart of Thames Water that have arguably drained funds – and attention – from the water itself. The podcast examines a system that is fiercely alive but under massive pressure, dealing with climate change, population growth, data centres and things we shouldn’t flush down the loo.
You will never look at a glass of tap water, or London’s waterfront, in the same way.
Challenges facing the Thames and Londoners’ clean water supply
70 per cent of London’s drinking water is drawn directly from the river, with 30 per cent being supplied by aquifers across London and the Thames Valley
The story of London’s modern plumbing stretches back to the 1860s and the aftermath of the Great Stink.
the Victorian environmental crisis in which sewage made the capital reek so severely that it disrupted Parliament. In response, engineer Joseph Bazalgette was commissioned to build the brick-lined sewage network that still serves London today.
But Thames Unfiltered reveals how, more than a century and a half later, the river faces an entirely different set of demands. The Victorians built a system designed for a capital they dreamt might one day hold four million people. Today, that infrastructure is struggling to cope in a city of 9.1 million.
On the podcast, I speak to customers impacted by floods and quiz Thames Water on soaring bills and a £20 billion debt mountain.
Thames Unfiltered also uncovers some remarkable signs of ecological resilience. Chris Livett, a seventh-generation waterman who helps film James Bond boat chases, lives on a river that hosts seahorses off Greenwich and harbour seals in central London.
While porpoises are found in surprising numbers out in the Thames’ estuary. The Thames has been brought back to life after being declared biologically dead in 1957. But that doesn’t mean it’s now clean: a healthy river is a river that allows wildlife to thrive.
The underlying mechanics of the Thames in the city are staggering. The capital’s sewage currently generates enough electricity via anaerobic digesters to run the entire City of London for five days.
Under normal conditions, a flush from west London takes 24 hours to travel through underground drains to Abbey Mills.
But during heavy rain, that journey goes express, taking just two hours – the main reason an overwhelmed system diverted storm overflow into the river more than 9,000 times last year.
But it’s not that which turns the river brown. Even if no industry ever touched the river, the Thames would always be the colour of builder’s tea because the tide constantly stirs up sediment from the riverbed.
Thames Unfiltered reveals that the pressures on the river extend beyond headlines of perilous corporate finances. Bazalgette’s original work may have saved more lives than almost anyone else in British history by effectively ending London’s cholera epidemics, but modern engineers are facing huge new problems.
While the underground infrastructure of the new 16-mile Tideway Tunnel super-sewer can hold the volume of hundreds of Olympic swimming pools of diluted wastewater, scientists from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) warn that invisible threats, like agricultural runoff and a massive influx of toxic rubber tyre particles from road surfaces, are altering the river’s chemistry.
Simultaneously, 70 per cent of London’s drinking water is drawn directly from the river, with 30 per cent being supplied by aquifers across London and the Thames Valley to satisfy us showering, glugging Londoners.
Demand is growing: across the UK, we now use an average of 143 litres per person every day. But the capital actually receives about 25 per cent less rainfall than the national average, a geographical fact obscured by London’s rainy reputation.
Experts on the podcast explain how a hotter, drier future climate will put this vital water source under increasing pressure.
What you shouldn’t put down your sink or flush down your toilet
Thousands of toilet-flushed wet wipes, now removed by Thames Water, had created a massive unpleasant cultural landmark near Hammersmith Bridge
Getty Images/iStockphoto
After verbally wading through the Thames’ sewage, environmental and financial problems, I didn’t exactly put down my mic and head for a dip in one of the Thames’ new designated swimming spots. When we Londoners put fats, oils, grease, and milk – I didn’t know that one – down the sink, the system seizes up.
Thousands of wet wipes created a cultural landmark near Hammersmith Bridge, forming a ball so big (it weighed the same as 15 double-decker buses) that it showed up on Google Maps and was labelled Wet Wipe Island, before being removed by Thames Water in 2025. In fact, the company removes around 75,000 pipe blockages a year.
Millions of us see, drink, and cross the Thames every day, but unlike the Victorians, we barely talk about how it keeps us safe and healthy — or otherwise. Thames Unfiltered proves there’s a lot more going on beneath that brown water than most Londoners would ever guess.
A dead end to Trump’s perfect war is how many analysts are now describing the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran. Early in the campaign, President Donald Trump repeatedly described the operation as a swift and decisive success, declaring that Iran’s military capabilities had been effectively destroyed. However, months later, the conflict continues, regional tensions remain high, and there is no clear path to a lasting resolution.
The situation has evolved into a far more complex geopolitical challenge than initial statements suggested. Shipping routes remain under pressure, energy markets continue to experience volatility, and diplomatic efforts have struggled to produce a durable settlement. These developments have led many observers to question whether the campaign has reached a strategic impasse.
The continuing U.S.–Iran conflict has affected regional security and global trade.The continuing U.S.–Iran conflict has affected regional security and global trade.
Why the War Was Initially Called a Success
When the military campaign began, the Trump administration presented it as a limited operation designed to weaken Iran’s military infrastructure and reduce future security threats.
Officials argued that the strikes had the following effects:
Damaged key military facilities.
Reduced Iran’s operational capabilities.
Demonstrated U.S. military strength.
Protected American interests and allies in the region.
President Trump described the campaign in highly optimistic terms, repeatedly saying it had achieved its objectives quickly.
The Reality Months Later
Despite those early claims, the conflict has continued well beyond initial expectations.
Several issues remain unresolved:
Military exchanges continue.
Regional instability persists.
Diplomatic negotiations have stalled.
International shipping routes remain vulnerable.
Global energy markets continue to react to developments.
Rather than producing a quick conclusion, the conflict has become increasingly difficult to end.
Economic Consequences
One of the most significant impacts has been on global trade and energy supplies.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes for oil exports, has faced repeated disruptions during the conflict. Even partial interruptions have affected energy prices and increased uncertainty for businesses and consumers worldwide.
Higher transport costs and concerns about supply chains have also contributed to market volatility.
Energy markets have reacted to continued instability in the Gulf region.
Diplomatic Challenges
Military operations alone rarely resolve long-standing geopolitical disputes.
Analysts note that any lasting settlement would likely require:
Direct negotiations.
Regional cooperation.
International mediation.
Security guarantees.
Economic incentives.
Without sustained diplomatic engagement, military gains can prove difficult to translate into long-term political stability.
Political Debate in the United States
The conflict has also generated significant political discussion within the United States.
Supporters argue that strong military action was necessary to counter security threats and demonstrate American resolve.
Critics question:
Whether the objectives were clearly defined.
How success should be measured.
The financial costs of an extended conflict.
The long-term implications for U.S. foreign policy are also significant are also significant.
Public opinion surveys have shown growing concern as the conflict has continued, with many Americans expressing a preference for bringing the fighting to an end.
Lessons From Modern Conflicts
History shows that even overwhelming military superiority does not always guarantee a quick or lasting victory.
Recent conflicts have demonstrated that success often depends on:
Clear political objectives.
Effective diplomacy.
Regional partnerships.
Public support.
Long-term reconstruction planning.
Without these elements, military operations can become prolonged and increasingly difficult to conclude.
Diplomacy is widely seen as essential to achieving a lasting resolution.
What Happens Next?
Several possible outcomes remain under discussion:
Renewed diplomatic negotiations.
A negotiated ceasefire.
Continued low-level military exchanges.
Increased international mediation.
Additional sanctions or economic measures.
The direction of the conflict will depend on political decisions in Washington, Tehran, and other regional capitals, as well as broader international efforts to reduce tensions.
Conclusion
A dead end to Trump’s perfect war reflects the growing view among many commentators that the conflict has become far more complicated than originally anticipated. While the administration initially portrayed the campaign as a rapid success, continuing military activity, economic disruption, and diplomatic difficulties suggest that achieving a lasting resolution remains a significant challenge.
Whether future negotiations can break the current stalemate will shape not only U.S.–Iran relations but also the wider security and economic outlook for the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the conflict being described as a “dead end”?
Some analysts argue that despite early claims of success, the conflict has continued without a clear politmost significant military resolution.
What are the biggest consequences of the conflict?
The main effects include regional instability, pressure on global energy markets, shipping disruptions, and ongoing diplomatic tensions.
How has the conflict affected oil markets?
Concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to higher market uncertainty and fluctuations in global oil prices.
What could help end the conflict?
Many foreign policy experts believe a combination of diplomacy, regional cooperation, and negotiated agreements offers the best chance of achieving a lasting settlement.
Andy Burnham has challenged his opponents to join him in putting aside political point-scoring to find a solution to England’s social care crisis.
The new Labour prime minister is set to hold a summit in Downing Street on Wednesday with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey to begin the process of thrashing out a way to deliver social care before it collapses the NHS.
Ahead of a speech he is set to deliver at a care home in north London on Wednesday morning, Mr Burnham said: “Last week I said we needed a different kind of politics: problem-solving, not point-scoring. Nowhere is that more urgent than social care.
“For decades, governments have avoided this issue because they’ve seen it as too risky, too difficult, and too complicated.
“Politicians might have different views but I’m serious about fixing this issue and to do that, we have to find common ground and listen to others to find a way forward.
Andy Burnham has appealed to opposition leaders to help him find a solution (Reuters)
“It’s time to draw a line under people playing politics when the human cost means carers are struggling, families are paying the price and our NHS is buckling under the strain.”
However, the initiative comes amid growing concerns about the state of the economy and the government’s ability to fund Mr Burnham’s initiatives.
Already there are major questions about how he will fund £2bn of commitments on removing VAT from energy bills, capping bus fares at £2 and reducing business rates of pubs and clubs by 20 per cent.
Added to that, a major think tank is set to warn that inflation will hit almost 4 per cent next year and the government’s capacity to borrow has maxed out, meaning everything will need to be funded through tax rises and spending cuts.
The impact will hit defence in particular, where Mr Burnham will need to find between £5bn and £18bn to meet the UK’s commitments and it has been suggested he wants to issue war bonds, another form of borrowing to fund the gap.
Ahead of the summit on Wednesday Sir Ed, who has ensured that the Lib Dems have prioritised demanding solutions to the care crisis, has said his party is willing to work with Mr Burnham. Ms Badenoch has also offered to work with Mr Burnham but warned she will not support new tax rises to fund it.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch will not support tax rises (PA Wire)
In 2009, when Mr Burnham was health secretary, he tried to find a common solution on care with a levy on assets when people died. But the Tories turned against him and accused him of trying to create a “death tax.”
Mr Burnham has not invited Reform UK to the talks.
even though they led the polls for 15 months until Labour overtook them this week.
However, Reform launched a preemptive attack, accusing Mr Burnham of wanting to revive his “death tax” plan, a claim that was immediately denied by Downing Street.
In a bid, though, to reach across the political divide, Mr Burnham said: “The issue comes down to a choice. We can keep passing the problem to the next generation, or we can face it directly and work together to build a care system that gives people dignity, security and the support they deserve.
“This is about bringing back hope that we can finally resolve the difficult issues that have been ignored for too long and making Britain believe again.
“That’s why I’m making this choice and I’m prepared to put everything I’ve got behind it.”
Visiting a care home on Wednesday, the prime minister will say he is making the choice to fix the broken social care system by working together across party lines to tackle the big issues.
Nigel Farage and Reform have not been invited to the summit (Reuters)
He will seek to end decades of decline and a refusal to tackle these problems directly, calling on all political parties to work together to solve them.
He will reiterate the need for a new kind of politics that puts differences aside to come together and face up to the challenges that Westminster has left unaddressed for too long.
He will be joined by the new health secretary Yvette Cooper and Baroness Louise Casey, who is leading the Independent Commission on Adult Social Care, which will draw up recommendations to deliver a National Care Service.
Baroness Casey will also launch the Big Conversation on Care, giving the public a chance to share their views and help shape the future of adult social care in England for the people it serves.
It will be open to everyone through a new online platform, starting off the conversation by asking people about the values and principles we should all expect from a care system.
Baroness Casey said, “For too long, we have been stuck in the same cycle: crisis, promises of reform, another review, and then retreat, while the people who need care and their families bear the brunt.
“Fixing adult social care is about far more than money. People are already paying for failure through council tax, pressure on the NHS, their savings, giving up work, and the forced sale of their homes. The choice is whether we keep putting money into a system that is unfair, unpredictable and broken or have an honest conversation about how to build something better.
“That is why we need a public conversation on care that tackles the tough questions. Only by facing this problem together can we fix social care for good.
Responding, Tory shadow health secretary Stuart Andrew said: “Andy Burnham and Labour cannot rely on vague promises of reform without a clear plan for implementation and detail on what will happen when.
“The Conservatives are ready to work with Labour on measures that improve social care provided they are not reliant on yet more tax rises and borrowing.”
Sir Ed said, “There have been 22 failed attempts at reforming social care since 1997. To see the 23rd effort work, we need to do things differently.
“My party has been pushing for cross-party talks on care for years, because it is the only way to build a solution that actually works. For carers and for our country, nothing matters more, so I look forward to meeting the prime minister to begin these talks.”
