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I took my kids to the beautiful UK city with huge Lego ships and illusion museums

IF you’re looking for the best views in Edinburgh, you might climb Arthur’s Seat hill or make the ascent up the Royal Mile.

But with sons Ralph, eight, and five-year-old Max in tow, my husband and I marched up Corstorphine instead, a lesser-known member of the city’s Seven Hills — but significantly more child-friendly.

A woman and her two sons stand in front of Edinburgh Castle.
Alex Lloyd
Alex Lloyd with Ralph and Max at the castle[/caption]
Boy touching plasma ball.
Alex Lloyd
Playing with a wonder ball at Camera Obscura Museum in Edinburgh[/caption]
Optical illusion in a museum; a man and woman appear to be different heights.
Alamy
An optical illusion at the museum[/caption]

It’s the home of Edinburgh Zoo and reaching the top rewards you with giraffes munching on a leafy lunch — a strong motivating factor to get my children racing up the steep path.

While a chilly breeze meant the lions and tigers kept a low profile, the newly arrived capybaras were keen to say hello.

We were also charmed by Haggis, a rare pygmy hippo born last October and fast becoming the zoo’s star attraction.

But my boys’ favourite was red panda Bruce, closely followed by the playful penguins.

Edinburgh was the first zoo in the world to house these birds in 1914.

After all our walking, it was good that our base for the weekend, the Novotel Edinburgh Centre on Lauriston Place, was an easy bus ride away.

And it ticked the boxes of each family member — a comfy double bed and spacious sofabed for the kids (me), cool bar with live music (my husband), basement swimming pool with jacuzzi (Ralph) and a waffle machine at the breakfast buffet (Max).

The location was ideal, too, with the street quiet but within strolling distance of Grassmarket, Greyfriars Bobby and the National Museum of Scotland.

Our taxi driver also told us that George Heriot’s School next door had inspired JK Rowling’s Hogwarts, to the kids’ delight.

The hotel was just minutes from our next destination — Camera Obscura, the city’s oldest tourist attraction, in a lookout tower on Castle Rock (home to Edinburgh Castle, unsurprisingly).

Earthquake simulation

Its five floors of interactive illusions — from the mind-bending Maze of Mirrors to the dizzying Vortex Tunnel — were as irresistible to my 21st-century kids as they would have been to our Victorian ancestors when it opened.

From here, we took a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile.

The boys loved the atmosphere and were so full of energy that it took a lot of coaxing to stop them leaping into the Scottish Parliament’s ornamental ponds.

Full soaking averted, we headed to Dynamic Earth — which takes you back in time to the origins of the universe.

Aptly located at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, it’s an immersive experience with earthquake simulation, a 4D plane ride around the planet and a mini- iceberg that you can touch.

After a good night’s sleep back at the hotel — followed by bao buns at its Tap Kitchen — we headed down the Royal Mile once more, this time by double-decker bus to the Port of Leith.

Baby pygmy hippopotamus at the zoo.
Andrew Barr
A new baby Pygmy Hippo called Haggis[/caption]
Bagpiper in Edinburgh playing bagpipes.
Alamy
A bagpiper in Edinburgh[/caption]

Here, we boarded the Royal Yacht Britannia, which recently opened a new exhibition that includes an 11ft Lego replica of the vessel.

I feared my lads would be as bored as Prince Louis on an official engagement, but this wondrous yacht had them rapt.

So their good behaviour was rewarded with tea and cake in the Royal Deck Tearoom.

The scones were so big, even Prince Louis would have raised a smile.

GO: EDINBURGH

GETTING THERE: Edinburgh Waverley Station is served by the LNER, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, ScotRail and Transpennine networks.

STAYING THERE: Novotel Edinburgh Central has queen rooms with sofabed from £140 per night.

For details and booking, visit all.accor.com.

MORE INFO: See visitscotland.com.

Read More »

I admire Simon Cowell but his daft views on children’s homework are shockingly irresponsible

Collage of Jane Atkinson and Simon Cowell with his family.

SIMON COWELL is one of the most powerful figures in the showbiz world.

He can make or break careers through shows like Britain’s Got Talent, and ­millions of children around the country hang on his every word.

Simon Cowell at the Britain's Got Talent press launch.
Simon Cowell is an influential figure and his comments on children’s homework were irresponsible
Getty

My son is just six but idolises him and regularly parrots, in exaggerated tones: “I don’t just like it . . . I love it.”

So I am shocked by how irresponsible Simon has been by saying there should be a total ban on school homework.

Now his legion of little fans around the country will be using the excuse to their parents that they “don’t just dislike homework . . . they hate it”. And then they won’t bother.

Simon made his ill-judged comments during a breezy chat on This Morning, claiming our youngsters would be happier and less stressed if they didn’t have to do “two hours” homework after a day at school.

I get that two hours seems utterly excessive for any young mind after a long day but banning it altogether would be madness.

Simon, who is dad to 11-year-old Eric, said that “schools put too much pressure on kids” when they are “ten, 11, 12” adding: “I would say to any teacher watching, ban homework. You’ll have happier kids and they’ll do better.”

Most teachers probably weren’t watching daytime TV though, because they were up to their ears in Britain’s ­classrooms, battling the gruelling daily grind of educating our kids.

I can only imagine what they will have said when they heard his daft remarks — I’m sure that they rolled their eyes in ­exasperation.

They would be disappointed that such a role model could attempt to cause them such a headache.

I admire Simon. He works with children’s charities. He has helped so many people achieve their goals.

But he seems to have somehow forgotten just how powerful his voice is.

And talking about bans is unfair — both to struggling parents who want their kids to excel and those hard-working teachers at the coalface of the nation’s education.

Simon has said that he didn’t ­actually stress about homework when he was younger because he would “just throw it away”.

Reap the rewards when they succeed

But in today’s competitive world our kids are not only competing against each other in the jobs market but also against rapidly developing AI and smart-arsed robots too.

So they must absorb the key skills homework gives them.

It cements what they learn in the classroom, teaches them to study on their own and to concentrate independently; instead of returning home and just scrolling on their phones.

Lauren Silverman, Eric Cowell, and Simon Cowell at the America's Got Talent red carpet.
Simon’s comments neglect how useful homework can be to children’s development
Getty

It also encourages them to be self- starters and to reap the rewards when they succeed — just as all those dancers, jugglers, singers and musicians have done when they stand up on that stage in front of Simon and his panel.

Homework is there to help teachers determine how well their lessons are understood, to teach kids to problem- solve and develop skills such as time management and self-discipline.

It shows parents what their kids are learning.

It prepares children for important tests and exams — and for tasks and ­challenges they will face after school.

If they have a rounded schooling now they will one day be able to show off their own talents to the world.

And they will look back and realise that education can be a real-life golden buzzer.

Dales switch is daft

YOU can tell that ITV’s former Head of Daytime Peter Fincham is a southerner.

He thinks Yorkshire-based Emmerdale could soon move to Manchester and be filmed alongside Corrie.

Peter, as a Northerner, let me put this in simple terms for you, lad – that’s like suggesting Arsenal players share changing rooms with Chelsea just across London at Stamford Bridge.

Things might be tough at ITV, but there is a limit.


CHANGING a winning formula can be a risky business.

But to mark the 100th anniversary celebrations of Chocolate Digestives, McVitie’s has announced it’s launching a limited-edition Pink Digestives Raspberry & Cream flavour.

Stuff the calories – I can’t wait to try these bad boys.

Becks dream

David Beckham in a green sweater and brown pants, leaning on a walking stick in a field of daisies.
David Beckham’s comments that he reads every word of Country Life might raise some eyebrows
Instagram

DAVID BECKHAM is guest editing Country Life because he says he has read “every issue from cover to cover”.

I suspect he arranges the glossy mags very neatly on a designer coffee table, but as for reading every word?

I hate to accuse Sir David of telling a few porkies . . . but if the flat cap fits.

Tattoo much…

Three British nationals on trial in Bali for alleged drug smuggling.
Jon Collyer is one of three Brits accused of smuggling cocaine into Bali
EPA

IF ever there was an advert to show why you should NEVER have dodgy DIY prison-style facial tattoos, Jon Collyer, above, is it.

He is one of the three Brits accused of smuggling cocaine in Angel Delight powder, who were then arrested at Bali International Airport and are now facing the death penalty.

Those ridiculous tattoos, that somehow make him look as though he’s spent half his life in prison, certainly won’t help him plead his innocence.

Have them where you can hide them, or better still, just say no, kids.

Lily pulls rank on her pals

Lily Allen at the Chanel Tribeca Festival Artists Dinner.
Lily Allen has organised her friends into rankings of how much she likes them
Getty

SO Lily Allen says she has created a list of friends who she ranks in order of how much she likes them, while her “assistant” schedules FaceTimes so they can catch up.

At first this may seem ridiculous, but actually you’ve got to praise her for being so organised and for making the effort to keep in touch when so many of us with busy lives don’t.

I do feel sorry for those of Lily’s “friends” who haven’t heard from her in a while, though – because they will now realise she’s not just busy . . . they’re actually at the bottom of the list.


Two homemade Cornish pasties with beef filling.
Fear in Cornwall over the opening of a new Greggs might be a little misplaced
Getty

THE Cornish Pasty Association have got their crusty bits in a right twist over the fact a seventh Greggs outlet is opening up in Cornwall.

They spat: “Greggs does not make products in Cornwall and therefore do not sell the genuine Cornish pasties our members make.”

Which seems a bit ridiculous.

We all know fans go to Greggs for the sausage rolls.

The Newcastle company hasn’t even sold anything vaguely resembling a traditional Cornish pasty for years.


KAREN MILLEN should stick to designing clothes.

She has been forced to make a grovelling apology for her ridiculous comments criticising mums who breastfeed their children beyond six months, calling it “selfish” and “not normal”.

What isn’t normal in this day and age is bad-mouthing other women for parenting choices.

Unless they are harming their kids, surely it should be a case of each to their own.

Bezos is £10m in wed

EVERYONE loves a good wedding, don’t they.

Despite the residents of Venice grumbling about Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s upcoming days of nuptials, I can’t wait to see all the photos.

The couple have just scaled it back and are now just spending a mere £10million on the three-day event.

So, we are about to find out exactly how you manage to burn through more than £3 million A DAY.

Yes, the extravagance is stomach-churning, but let’s face it – who will be able to resist?

HAPPY Father’s Day to all the dads – and father figures – out there.

The Geordie included, who sadly hasn’t got his Moonpig card today because they failed to send it.

I did get an apologetic email and a credit back for the postage. What customer service.

Nothing says “I love you” more than a happy belated Father’s Day card, does it?

Read More »

I visited the Jurassic Park-like lagoon right by one of the most beautiful beaches – here’s how to get there

AS I kayak on Florida’s Indian River Lagoon, I’m lost for words.

With its ancient mangrove forests and prehistoric-looking pelicans dive-bombing the water, this wouldn’t be out of place in Jurassic Park.

Wide shot of New Smyrna Beach with people and buildings in the background.
Sands at the New Smyrna Beach
Couple kayaking in calm water.
© 2023 Peter Frank Edwards
Have fun paddling in a kayak[/caption]
Flagler Avenue entrance sign in Smyrna Beach, Florida.
The streets on New Smyrna Beach
Supplied

But then comes the real excitement, as 20-plus dolphins start splashing around just metres away.

And they’re having plenty of fun as they jump out of the water and even swim right under me.

This body of water is 156 miles long and the most ecologically diverse estuary in North America.

I’m taking a paddle on an uncharacteristically overcast morning, but it’s usually baking hot and packed with even more wildlife, including manatees and all manner of birds.

I’m staying in the city of New Smyrna Beach, on Florida’s east coast, which offers something entirely different from what might spring to mind when you first think of the Sunshine State.

It’s only about an hour’s drive from the theme parks Florida is known for, but presents an entirely different experience.

I’d rented my kayak from the Marine Discovery Center, which offers daily guided tours.

But out of the water, there’s plenty more to see in this vibrant beach city, which is popular with surfers and about as laid-back as it gets.

The main boulevard, Flagler Avenue, is peppered with independent shops, bars and restaurants and feels like it’s straight out of a Hallmark movie.

I grabbed a spot on the veranda of the Flagler Tavern, where I sipped on a deliciously tall cocktail and explored the menu packed with American seafood specials.

It was then just a short stroll back to my hotel, Marriott’s SpringHill Suites.

Rooms here are huge and feature walk-in wardrobes, but the real selling point is the fabulous view you get over the Atlantic Ocean and New Smyrna’s amazing beach.

Next morning, I was up early to get the sand between my toes.

Om Sunshine Yoga runs community classes on weekend mornings, with all the gear provided.

They even offer paddleboard yoga, although I soon found out my balance is bad enough on dry land — let alone the water.

Gopher tortoises

Even before attempting to get into a downward dog, the beach took my breath away — its fine white sand is set against expansive blue skies which have to be seen to be believed.

In fact, because the sand is so compact, you can even drive on it — so that’s how I decided to explore the coastline.

Pedego Electric Bikes offers guided tours to see the three miles of coast at speed.

I took in the sights, sounds and sunshine, while feeling the sea breeze in my hair, as I cycled north to the Smyrna Dunes Park.

Here you can see the striking Ponce de Leon lighthouse — the tallest in the state at 175ft — as well as explore the park with its boardwalks and wildlife.

Try to go at sundown for the best chance to spot gopher tortoises.

Man riding a bicycle with a surfboard on the beach.
Supplied
Take a ride on an e-bike on the beach[/caption]
White house with a large porch, situated under the shade of large oak trees.
Supplied
The historic Victoria 1883 guesthouse[/caption]
Outdoor pool at a resort overlooking the ocean at sunset.
Take a dip at the pool at Marriott’s SpringHill Suites
Supplied
X-37B spaceplane launching on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
Reuters
A rocket launch at Cape Canaveral[/caption]

If you’re looking for something more upmarket for dinner, then Riverpark Terrace is a great spot, with a tropical garden and fancy menu.

In fact, it is known as the area’s most romantic restaurant.

And love was in the air as I travelled across town and checked into luxury guesthouse Victoria 1883 to continue my stay in New Smyrna Beach — it doubles as a sought-after wedding venue and overlooks the Indian River.

It is also the oldest property in the area and steeped in history but was renovated and opened as a boutique B&B in 2022, with a gorgeous lounge, garden and speakeasy-style bar.

While the urge to relax here was strong, I took a ten-minute stroll to the creative district of Canal Street, where shops sell art, bric-a-brac and homeware, and there is brilliant vinyl at Spinning Records.

At newly refurbished restaurant General Public, I filled up on hearty Southern cuisine then headed to the Sugar Works Distillery for a drink.

This independent bar and distillery has some of the best cocktails I’ve ever tasted.

They are created using the distillery’s spirits, which are largely made from produce within a ten-mile radius.

New Smyrna Beach is a beautiful escape from the bustle of Orlando, so a great way to vary your time during a Florida getaway.

I flew Aer Lingus from Heathrow via Dublin, which gives a sneaky benefit when travelling to the States — you go through pre-clearance US passport control at Dublin airport, meaning you don’t have to bother with the faff of security when you touch down on the other side after the long-haul flight.

But it turned out that wouldn’t be the only memorable flight on my holiday, as New Smyrna Beach is just 60 miles from the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, where rockets are launched into space once or twice every week.

So one of the most unforgettable moments came when, just past midnight, I stood on the beach and watched as a Space X rocket rose through the sky and blasted off into the solar system.

Just like that, this holiday was out of this world.

GO: NEW SMYRNA BEACH

GETTING THERE: Aer Lingus flies six times weekly from Dublin to Orlando, with fares from Heathrow to Orlando via Dublin from £578 return.

See aerlingus.com.

STAYING THERE: Rooms at Victoria 1883 start from £215 per room including breakfast.

See victoria1883.com.

Rooms at SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach are from £238 including breakfast.

See marriott.com/dabsh.

OUT & ABOUT: Two-hour guided kayak tour, £40 per adult and £26 per child.

See marinediscoverycenter.org.

Pedego Electric Bikes can be rented for £24.50 an hour.

See pedegonsb.com.

MORE INFO: See visitnsbfl.com.

Person holding a cocktail in Smyrna Beach, Florida.
Supplied
The Sun’s Howell Davies with a drink in hand[/caption]

Read More »

My pulse fluctuates from 80bpm to 55bpm – is this normal or should I be worried?

Dr Zoe, Sun columnist, holding a stethoscope.
Sun columnist Dr Zoe
Olivia West

OUR resident specialist and NHS GP, Dr Zoe Williams, shares her expert advice.

Today, Dr Zoe helps an elderly reader who wonders if it is normal for their pulse to fluctuates between 80bpm and 55bpm.

Portrait of Dr. Zoe, a columnist, wearing a red shirt and blue pants.  She is smiling and has a stethoscope around her neck.
Olivia West
Dr Zoe Williams helps Sun readers with their health concerns[/caption]
Senior man checking his heart rate on a smartwatch.
It’s a good sign if the heart rate increases above 100 when you are physically exerting yourself
Getty

Q) I AM 82 years old and my pulse fluctuates between 80bpm and 55bpm. Is this normal?

A) Strictly speaking, a normal resting heart is defined as being between 60 and 100 beats per minute.

But it is perfectly normal for the heart rate to go as low as 55 at night, when the body is in a state of relaxation.

Some people, particularly those who are very fit, usually athletes, may have a resting daytime heart rate that is below 60.

It’s generally a sign of a healthy and efficient heart.

So if these lower readings are occurring at night, then there is nothing here that is concerning, especially if you feel well otherwise.

It’s also normal and a good sign if the heart rate increases above 100 when you are physically exerting yourself.

It means the heart is responding appropriately.

If your heart rate drops below 50 bpm, or the variability is not tied to rest and more active periods, or if you have any associated symptoms, then I would advise getting it checked.

I’d recommend keeping an eye on any symptoms that might accompany these fluctuations, such as dizziness, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or extreme fatigue.

You don’t say if you are using a fitness tracking watch to make these readings.

If you have any abnormal activities or alerts, save them in case they become handy for any GP investigations.


TIP: Symptoms of heart issues can easily be swept under the carpet.

For example, shortness of breath, especially during exercise, fatigue or swelling in the ankles – which we may mistake for summer heat-related issues.

These are warning signs of a potential heart-related problem. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant a trip to the GP.

  • Send your questions for Dr Zoe to: health@thesun.co.uk

Read More »

We test trendy creatine supplements on the market to boost energy from gummies to powder

A NEW report shows one in ten people aged 18 to 24 prefer health-related first dates to going to the pub.

This could be one reason creatine is the supplement of the moment. The compound, found naturally in muscles, helps produce energy for high intensity exercise.

Three different creatine supplements: powder, capsules, and gummies.
We put credible creatine supplements to the test

But there are reports some supplements contain ZERO creatine. I put credible ones to the test.

STRAWBERRY GUMMIES

Jar of Novomins high-strength creatine gummies.
Novomins
The Novomins Creatine Monohydrate Gummies contain 5 grams of pure creatine monohydrate[/caption]

In each serving of Novomins Creatine Monohydrate Gummies there are 5 grams of pure creatine monohydrate.

These have been independently lab-verified to ensure quality. Studies show 3 to 5 grams per day are recommended if you are supplementing. Higher doses offer no advantage.

You’d need to eat 850g of red meat to get 5g of creatine needed for improved performance.

These gummies taste great and the main ingredient is creatine.

From £18.66 for a month’s supply – 90 gummies, novomins.com.

POWDER MIX

Amber jar of Ancient + Brave True Creatine+ supplement.
supplied
Ancient + Brave’s True Creatine+ is a powder which contains 4.5g of creatine monohydrate per 6g serving[/caption]

THERE is a reason that Ancient + Brave is becoming a very popular brand and that’s because it makes some great products.

Its True Creatine+ is no different.

This is a powder that just mixes creatine with taurine – a naturally occurring amino acid used for energy – magnesium and vitamin D. There is 4.5g of creatine monohydrate per 6g serving.

This combination can support energy and strength plus focus and recovery. I love magnesium for its stress relieving properties and we should all be taking vitamin D.

Powder may seem fiddly but it is tasteless and you just add it to water. This comes in a jar or portable sachets.

From £22.40 for 30 servings, see ancientandbrave.earth.

NO-FUSS CAPSULES

Bottle of New Leaf Products Creatine Monohydrate capsules.
supplied
New Leaf’s Creatine Monohydrate Capsules is a convenient supplement that is easy to add to your daily routine[/caption]

NEW Leaf Products is a no fuss supplement company that doesn’t do as much fancy marketing as some others but has a great range of products.

Their Creatine Monohydrate Capsules is pure creatine apart from the synthetic outer shell and magnesium stearate which is added as an anti-caking agent.

A convenient supplement that is easy to add to your daily routine. And creatine is not just for Gen Z, it is great if you are getting older as it can help stop the loss of muscle mass that naturally occurs.

It can make you gain weight because it can cause temporary water retention by drawing water into muscle cells but this is very different to weight gain from fat.

A good starter dose of 3g and just £14.95 for a two-month supply, new-leaf-products.com.

Read More »

I’m convinced my husband is cheating on me with woman who complimented his ‘cool camper’

DEAR DEIDRE: I’M convinced my husband is cheating after having his head turned by compliments about his “cool camper”.

His VW conversion is his pride and joy and it’s not unusual that people come up when we are out and about to talk about the van.

We’ve been married for 17 years. We’re both 45.

A few months ago my phone ran out of charge. I borrowed my husband’s phone to make a call, and found messages between him and a woman who lives a couple of streets away.

I recognised her name because she often stops to talk when my husband is cleaning the van on the front drive.

In these messages she said he was the “hottest camper driver” she’d ever met, and she looked forward to bumping into him because he was so handsome.

His replies were equally flirty, telling her she was really sexy.

I had it out with him but he put it all down to harmless banter. I insisted he stop messaging, which he promised he would. A few weeks later, I got home late, and looked through his phone while he slept.

I found fresh messages between them and they had moved onto discussing exactly how they’d like to thrill each other and I’m certain they’ve been sleeping in the double bed in our van.

They even exchanged explicit photos and said they “needed to meet up again”.

After confronting him, I admitted I couldn’t ever trust him again and he suggested we live together as friends.

He doesn’t want to move out. I’m in such a mess and don’t know where to go from here.

Is he trying to hold on to our relationship simply because he doesn’t want to lose our home?

I am one unhappy camper. What can I do?

READ MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE

DEAR DEIDRE

Husband is in prison and my head has been turned by a new lad - is it cheating?

DEAR DEIDRE

I'm married but fell pregnant with my ex's baby after passionate nights of sex

DEIDRE SAYS: Your husband has repeatedly betrayed your trust and lied to you. He continued this liaison even after you first discovered it.

He has been unable to control himself, or be honest with you. If he felt there were issues in your relationship, he should have addressed them. Continuing with this affair demonstrates a complete lack of regard for you and your relationship.

It might be convenient for him to live together as friends, but convenience breeds contempt. Now is the time to think very hard about what will work for you.

Splitting up will impact other members of your family but don’t go along with what he wants. To work out a way forward it would be helpful to talk this through with a counsellor.

I’m sending you my support packs, How Counselling Can Help and Cheating – Can You Get Over It?

Get in touch with Deidre

Every problem gets a personal reply, usually within 24 hours weekdays.

Send an email to deardeidre@the-sun.co.uk

You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page.

WIFE LETS SISTER BE VILE TO ME

DEAR DEIDRE: MY sister-in-law is so rude to me, but my wife just lets it go. Am I wrong to expect a wife to stand up for her husband?

We’ve been married for three years. I’m 34, my wife is 36. Her sister is 30.

The first time I met her sister was at our wedding. She seemed nice enough. But as the champagne flowed, she shot me nasty looks across the dancefloor.

I thought I was imagining it.

We all met up again for drinks, and the sister insulted me whenever my wife was out of earshot.

She slated my job and even made fun of my clothes.

When I asked what she was playing at, she called me disgusting names.

I told my wife, who simply said her sister could be “difficult”.

We moved house and had a party. I didn’t want the sister to be invited but my wife said I was overreacting.

Lo and behold, her sister insulted me again. I told her not to talk to me that way, which she seemed to find hilarious.

Instead of stepping in, my wife just shrugged it off.

We didn’t see the sister for ages after that, and it was lovely.

But my wife and I had a row recently and she went round to stay at her sister’s house.

She came back even angrier at me than she had been when she left, and since then they’re on the phone every day.

I feel my wife has taken her sister’s side over mine. There’s no loyalty. I’m feeling really hurt by her attitude and I’m even wondering if we should get a divorce.

DEIDRE SAYS: It is interesting that you didn’t meet her sister until your wedding.

Perhaps she has behaved in a similar way with your wife’s previous boyfriends?

I wonder if the sister is jealous of your wife and her relationships.

It might not be a coincidence that every incident has involved alcohol – could she have a drinking problem, or lose control after a few glasses?

Whatever the reason, it certainly sounds as if she thrives on creating conflict. You need to pick a moment to talk to your wife and explain how you feel, and that you are ready for divorce over this.

Ask her to set up a coffee and chat between the three of you to get the bottom of the issues.

That could help you to sort this out in a sensible – and sober – way.

HOW CAN I DISCUSS DOMESTIC ABUSE?

DEAR DEIDRE: HOW do I talk to my 12-year-old son about the domestic violence he witnessed growing up?

I was married to his dad for five years. The physical abuse started when I was pregnant with my son and continued until I left three years later. Thankfully, he never touched my son.

I tried to hide the violence, but there were times when my son walked in on us and begged his dad to stop.

Now my son is old enough to understand, I want to talk to him – but don’t know how.

DEIDRE SAYS: It is now recognised that children who witness abuse between adults are themselves also victims of abuse.

Seeing a counsellor together might help you and your son.

It’s an excellent idea to talk to your son about everything you both went through. For guidance on having these conversations, the NSPCC (NSPCC.org.uk) offers support and advice.

There’s also useful information on the Woman’s Aid website: womensaid.org.uk.

FAMILY FORUM

DEAR DEIDRE: SINCE I opened up about my early sexual abuse, I’ve been cut out of my family.

My parents split up when I was five. My mum soon met and married a new man. He had a son of his own, aged nine, who’d stay with us during the summer holidays.

From his first visit, my stepbrother tried to have sex with me.

I didn’t realise what was happening at first, and assumed it was how boys acted with their friends.

This continued until my mum and stepdad divorced when I was 17.

I went on to have a son of my own. That was when I realised how inappropriate my stepbrother had been, and I finally told Mum.

I expected support and understanding. Instead, I got shame. She told me never to tell anyone else as it would make things awkward and embarrassing for her.

From that point on, Mum began to cut me out of the family. I stopped being invited to get-togethers, and I wasn’t even allowed to attend my grandfather’s funeral.

I thought opening up to Mum would bring me some closure on the early sexual abuse, but instead I’ve lost everything.

DEIDRE SAYS: I’m sorry this has happened to you.

Children can develop sexual feelings very young, but it’d be unusual for a boy aged just nine to know about sex unless he had witnessed something at an early age.

He might have seen pornography or caught his father having sex. He might even have been sexually abused himself.

He wouldn’t necessarily know that his actions were wrong at first, but as you both grew older, he would have realised. Instead of stopping, he took advantage of you regularly. This really was abuse.

I am sending you my support pack called Abused as a Child. It has details of places you can get help. Reach out for that support: it will be therapeutic for you.

For help navigating your difficult relationship with your mum, contact Family Lives (familylives.org.uk, 0808 800 2222).

Its live chat will provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings and work out your next steps.

CAN'T KEEP IT UP

DEAR DEIDRE: I CAN’T get, or keep, an erection when I’m trying to have sex with my girlfriend. However, when we are simply touching each other, it’s fine. Help.

My girlfriend and I have been dating for four months. We’re both in our early 40s.

I think she’s gorgeous. I’d love us to have sex. But when we try, my bits don’t behave. I just can’t get hard.

It’s frustrating for both of us.

Is there anything I can do? She’s being sweet about it but her patience will eventually wear out.

DEIDRE SAYS: Erection struggles are often worsened by anxiety – as you’ve discovered.

When you feel that you can’t trust your body to perform every time, you can begin to overthink things during the foreplay stage, and that can affect your arousal.

I’m sending you my support pack on Erection Problems. Follow the advice in there.

Also, take sex off the table for a few weeks. Get back to enjoying each other with no pressure to have sex, and you might start to respond naturally.

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Club World Cup 2025: What are the five new rules being introduced at the tournament?

THE Club World Cup has RETURNED in the summer of 2025 – with a new look tournament and new look rules.

Sides from all over the world will travel to USA to compete in the competition this summer.

FIFA Club World Cup trophy.
AP
32 sides will compete for the Club World Cup in a new format for the competition[/caption]
Chelsea players celebrating Champions League victory.
Getty
Chelsea will play in the competition after winning the 2021 Champions League[/caption]
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF reacts after a game.
Getty
Stars such as Lionel Messi will be involved in the competition[/caption]

Uefa Champions League winners between 2021-2024 Chelsea, Real Madrid and Man City are among 12 teams representing Europe in the States.

20 other teams from CONMEBOL, Concacaf, CAF, AFC, MLS and OFC will make up the participating field – which has expanded from six to 32.

Stars such as Lionel Messi, Cole Palmer, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele will be on show in the new look tournament.

SunSport can reveal what the new rules for the Club World Cup are.

What are the new Club World Cup rules?

The Club World Cup will see FIVE new rules this summer, those being:

  • Referees will wear body cameras with the footage used on live match broadcasts.
  • Footage from referee monitor reviews will be aired LIVE in stadiums.
  • Advanced semi-automated offside technology will be in use. Balls will have a sensor inside.
  • AI will be used to collect live match data as part of Fifa’s partnership with Hawk-Eye.
  • Substitutions will be requested on a digital tablet rather than via paper slips.

How to watch the Club World Cup for FREE

  • The WHOLE Club World Cup will be available on DAZN.
  • Some matches (23 in total) are also available to watch on free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK.
  • The tournament starts on Saturday, June 14 and concludes on Sunday, July 13.
  • SunSport will live blog select matches, including all Chelsea and Man City games and the KO stages.

Are there still tickets available for the Club World Cup?

Limited tickets still remain available for Club World Cup games.

*Please note that TicketMaster and other secondary ticket sites may list tickets above face value.

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King George winner Bravemansgame moved from Paul Nicholls and will continue career in France

KING GEORGE hero Bravemansgame has been moved to France in a bid to reignite his career over jumps.

The 10-year-old will now be trained by 29-year-old Marine Pineda in Chantilly having spent the last six years with 14-time champion trainer Paul Nicholls.

Horse race at Kempton Racecourse.
PA
Bravemansgame won the King George in 2022[/caption]
A man and a brown horse.
PA
He spent six years with 14-time champions trainer Paul Nicholls[/caption]

His best season came in 2022-23 when he won the King George at Kempton on Boxing Day before running a mighty race in defeat when second to Galopin Des Champs in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

In total he won nine races for Nicholls and £726,484 in prize-money for his owner Bryan Drew.

But his form took a dip this season, with his best performance coming in the Betfair Chase when he was third behind Royale Pagaille. His final run for Paul Nicholls came in the Grand National when he finished 15th.

Drew, who is not averse to moving his horses between trainers, felt a change of scenery would do him some good.

After discussions with Nicholls, they felt switching him to France could help him rediscover some spark in the autumn of his career.

Nicholls said: “He has been a great horse for us at Ditcheat and we had some memorable days with him.

“He won three Grade 1s for us, including a Challow Hurdle and a King George, and he ran a blinder in the Gold Cup a couple of years ago.

“He has had some hard races over the years, and Bryan just felt he would have a better chance of winning a race in France at this stage in his career.

“I have no problem at all with the decision, it’s worth a try and hopefully he goes over there and has a good time of it.”

FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.


Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

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Aldi shoppers go wild for boozy BBQ essential that’s just £1.70 and perfect for the hot weather 

ALDI shoppers are going wild for a new boozy product that looks perfect for summer BBQs and picnics.

The supermarket has brought out alcoholic mango margarita cans, which cost just £1.70.

Mango Margarita style cocktail in a can.
Instagram/Aldiuk
Aldi is selling a Mango Margarita can for £1.70[/caption]
Mango margarita popsicles on a bed of ice with lime wedges and mango margarita cans.
Instagram/Aldiuk
The supermarket showed how you can turn the cans into ice popsicles[/caption]

And the best part is that you can easily turn them into ice lollies for a refreshing snack.

Aldi shared a photo of the 250ml cans and some freshly-made lollies and said they would be perfect for Father’s Day this weekend.

The supermarket wrote on Instagram: “These BOOZY Mango Margarita Popsicles taste like summer, sun & BBQs!!”

They also helpfully shared their lolly recipe if you are tempted to make a batch.

All you need to do is mix together two cans of their Mango Margarita, with one of their 200ml Mango & Passion Fruit Smoothies.

Add two tbsp of fresh lime juice and then divide between the tubs or ice lolly moulds.  

The website states: “Top with a slice of lime and insert a lolly stick, then freeze overnight.  

“When ready to serve, remove the ice lollies from the moulds and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and lime zest.”

The post appears to have excited numerous Aldi shoppers, who rushed to the comments to share their views.

One said: “Need to make these.”

Another added: “Yum.”

And a third commented: “We finally tried the spicy margaritas recently, they’re so good. 

“I can see I’m going to have to try these too!”

Aldi joked in response: “We take no responsibility for any joy and/or mischief that results from the creation of these Popsicles…”

A motion-blurred man entering an Aldi supermarket.
Alamy
Aldi has released the drink ahead of the summer[/caption]

How to make Aldi's mango margarita lollies

  1. Mix together the mango margaritas, smoothie and lime juice.  
  2. Divide between the tubs or ice lolly moulds.  
  3. Top with a slice of lime and insert a lolly stick, then freeze overnight.  
  4. When ready to serve, remove the ice lollies from the moulds and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and lime zest. 

Source: Aldi

BOOZY BALLS

The supermarket has also just released a range of boozy drinks that have been taking TikTok by storm.

The discount supermarket has boasted that it will be selling BuzzBallz for the cheapest price around, at just £2.99.

The colourful pre-mixed drinks come in clear plastic balls and they’re hugely popular with Gen Z.

BuzzBallz Tequila 'Rita cocktail can.
Aldi
Tequila Rita is a take on a classic margarita but it also includes vodka[/caption]
BuzzBallz Choc Tease cocktail can.
Aldi
The Choc Tease could be poured over ice cream as a dessert or drunk from the ball[/caption]

You can pick up Choc Tease, Strawberry Rita and Tequila Rita from Aldi this summer.

Choc Tease is described as a “rich, chocolate cocktail crafted with premium vodka, real cream and natural chocolate flavour”.

It can be drunk straight from the ball, in a cocktail glass or poured over ice cream as a dessert.

Tequila Rita is a take on the classic margarita.

It combines a lime flavour with “premium tequila, vodka, and natural flavours”.

The Strawberry Rita is more of a fruity margarita and can either be drunk straight from the ball or poured over ice and garnished with a fresh strawberry.

BuzzBallz are already available in corner shops and in other big supermarkets like Morrisons, Tesco and B&M.

But Aldi says you’ll get them for the cheapest price in its stores.

Aldi wine dupes

WHY fork out for an expensive bottle of wine when you can virtually get the same taste, but for less?

Whispering Angel, £17 

Aldi dupe: Chassaux Et Fils Atlantique Rosé, £4.99. Or Aldi’s Sainte Victoire Provence Rosé, £12.49.

Cali Red by Snoop Dogg, £12/£13 

Aldi dupe: The Reprobates Californian Red, £9.99. 

Dark Horse Merlot, £10 

Aldi dupe: Beachfront Malbec, £6.99

Laurent Perrier Rose champagne, £80 

Aldi dupe: Crémant Du Jura, £8.99

Aperol Spritz, £17 

Aldi dupe: Aperini Aperitif, £6.99 

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